Biblical Timeline

Years ago I taught a Bible class and one of the ladies asked me about the order of events according to Revelation.   I built this timeline from my understanding of the events.  I thought I would share it.

A Bitter Old Friend

Last night, I had a friend contact me on Facebook. She knew I was a preacher's wife and came at me with her miserable, unhappy, bitter questions as to why God took her husband three years ago. Here is a bit of the dialogue and then my response:

(Oh, by the way, names have been changed)

Lisa (original post on Facebook)
So, I go to the bathroom to brush my teeth because I am about to go to bed. I reach to gently turn the water on and the whole handle comes off in my hand. Water is spewing at 100 mph straight at the ceiling. I am screaming "Help!!!!!". My husband rushes to my rescue (which after 30 years he is quite good at) and turns the water off from outside (there is no cut off under the sink). I used ever towel in my house to clean up the mess. Of course, being married to Mr. Fixit, an hour later, a new faucet is back on and the water is running fine. :D

Mary - Oh wow!! That'll wake you up!! Did you burst out laughing?! I think I would have!!

Tina - So now you are wide awake and had your shower?! Lol. Yay for a handy husband who came quickly.

Lisa - I did. I was shaking because I didn't know what to do. The whole house was flooding. My cabinets were flooding. The lights above the vanity blew out. The drawers were all full of water. Yeah, I laughed. LOL Oh, yeah, my make up bag was drenched!

Martha - We all have had those moment.  I had an electrical fire in the kitchen overhead fixtures. Woke up to the smoke alarm going off at 4 in the morning. I turned off the breakers, called the fire dept. and ran a water hose into the house. I put the fire out and saved my house. You never know what u can do until u have to.  My husband died 3 years ago, you do what u have to,

Lisa - That makes me feel better, Martha. I am not such a fast thinker....All i could think about was "Oh, no, I'm in my nightgown. I can't go outside." LOL I was trying to hold my hand over the geyser. If my husband dies...this old girl better go to vo-tech and take some classes. LOL I don't know how to do anything.

Martha - You have to remember all the things they taught you while u weren't listening\. Because u thought they would be there forever.  Sorry, that is just a lot of pain I go through.

Lisa- So true! I understand. I can't imagine not having my sweetheart. After 30 years we are best friends. It also has been my good fortune to have 3 sons who all are Mr. Fixits like their dad....one son which lives particularly close....thank goodness, because I have had to call on him several times!!!!

Martha - My best friend died 3 years ago and I am not so lucky

------At which point I take the conversation private-------

Lisa - So sorry to hear about your husband dying. Would I be out of line to ask you what happened? Do you have children? How long were you married? If I am out of line, forgive me.

Martha - 25 years, one son.  I hurt so bad everyday.  I don't know how to get over it. My heart is broken.  I have to live everyday without my soulmate. I begged God for his life when he was dying. he didn't help me. Yes he has helped me since.  I got mad at God.  I had to watch him die\. I will never get over that.

Lisa - I can imagine you do. My grandmother told me she never has gotten over losing Daddy D. I don't think you ever get over it completely.

But, I do know that having a relationship with Jesus Christ helps. Or, atleast it has helped me through all the things I have been through.
As you know, I am married to a Baptist preacher. Where some people get mad at God....I always ran to God. I always believed! You have to believe.

Have you ever been born again? By that I mean, do you remember a time when you gave your life to Jesus Christ?

Martha - It makes no sense. He was a good man, who loved God. Yes, I am born again, why else would I be mad at God\

Lisa - If he was a true believer then he is with the Lord. This earth is not a place for us to get bound. We are headed out of here.
I believe that trials happen for reasons. We just should live by faith. God is God. What he choses to do is always right. We don't understand. We just believe....and trust. And we patiently wait to see his goodness.

Martha - He did good works, he helped everybody, he took kids under his wings\. Why was he taken\. Please anser me that.  That was not fair.  You would not think so either if it was ur husband

Lisa - I can't answer why God choses to take someone. But I can say that He is always right to do what he does. He is in control and getting mad doesn't help. Like a child....your son may not like you sending him to school. He may cry, scream and hold on to you and he might even get mad at you for sending him....but you know what is best for your child. So you do what is best and he must accept it and trust that you love him and are not trying to hurt him.

Martha - Lisa, nobody can preach to me, I know the word, that is why it hurts so much

Lisa - Ok, I am sorry. I didn't mean to hurt you. Please forgive me.

Martha - God has saved me when I didn't even want to be saved. But I can't forgive myself for my husband dying\. What could I have done to save him. I don't know how to get past that

Martha - It has to be my fault, I was responsible for him, just like he was for me. You have no more answers than i do.  I don't know, everything you say are just platitudes. You are saying what u think someone wants to hear.

Lisa - I am going to share one verse with you. I don't want to appear preachy but you know....it is who I am. I perceive you are bitter. I hope I am wrong. But here is the verse:
Heb_12:15 Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled;
Bitterness brings so much trouble to your life but the worst part is that so any other people will be defiled because of your bitterness. Bitterness hurts many people. It makes you sharp and harsh toward people. Maybe the people are genuinely trying to be kind.
I suggest you go to the Lord with your bitterness and ask him to take it away.
Again, I beg you to know that I am not meaning any harm. I am not trying to be mean. I am really, sincerely wanting to see some healing take place in your life.

Martha - Lisa, after my husband died, I got 3 dui's in amonth\. I went to jail\. Can u imagine me in jail\. I have never even gotten a traffic ticet\.

Lisa - I wish I could help you more. I am afraid that I am not the wisest person. But I do know that I'd never intentionally hurt anyone and I am so sorry If I have hurt you. I will say a prayer for you before I go to bed.

Martha - I just feel burned sometiomes. You haven't hurt me\. It is almost a physical pain. probably worse. A physical pain u know will go away this doesn't. I have dealt with it for over 3 years, it still hurts like it was yesterday. i have asked god to take it away, I am still waiting on that. Just because I got mad at God, does not mean I don't love him

Lisa - How would your husband want you to handle this? I believe he is watching. Is this what he'd want? You aren't able to help others if you are still needing help yourself. It is time to move on. Many have been through what you are going through. They make it and you can too. It is not easy but other people need you. You have a purpose to fulfill. Get out there and fulfill it. Start back serving God. Love Him. One day you will reunite with your Sweety. Until then...get busy loving on people. There are others who need help in this same area!
I'm going to bed but If you ever see me online...please contact me. Because I believe this is your first day to victory! I want to hear about it! You can do it. Do it for your husband, do it for your son, do it for you, and most of all....do it for God!

Martha -  I think u are giving me the standard issue for preacher's wives, not for an old friend
that is ok, I know God, I don't need crap.  don't give me a speech you have rehearsed a thousand times.  I luv u girl but this is not acceptable to me

Lisa - How rude. I was saying that from my heart. I've never rehearsed that. What have I done to you to make you so unkind to me? I've only been trying to be kind. This is who I am. I am sorry it is so unacceptable to you. I would have gladly accepted you for who you are but yet I am so unaccepted by you.

Martha - You are saying stuff out of a movie\.  I want the real lisa

Lisa - What movie? I think it is not just me you are mad at. I think no matter who was trying to help you....we would all be rejected. I am not a fake. This is who I am. What is the real Lisa? Some one who mean, bitter, and miserable??? I am sorry but that is not me.

Martha - So that is who i am? No, I am the person who took care of everybody and got left alone
Stop sounding fake
i am not bitter and mean\. Just sad most of the time\. When u have walked in my shoes, then u judge me\. the Lisa I wanted was the one that used to make wine under her bed\. Yes I remember that\. I need u to be really really real with me, not preachy\. I love and respect you\.

You can't tell me God does everything for a reason,that is no explanation for the pain i have endured. My husband was a good man, a good christian.We both never hurt anybody, and helped anyone we could

-------------Now, here is my morning reply--------------------------


1st) I am not a 15 year old kid anymore...and neither are you.  Yes, I tried to make wine once.  But I was a kid.  I was playing.  I am the same happy-go-lucky Lisa I was then...only now I am serving the Lord.  My husband and I got in church when I was 18 years old.  I've served God for almost 30 years.  I am not a fake.  I really, really do love the Lord. 

2nd)  You are not the same Martha I knew growing up.  The Martha I knew was kind, sweet tempered, So, instead of judging me as a fake....maybe you need to check yourself out.  Because I want the old Martha. 

3rd)  I was thinking, on an upwards day of our church we have around 350 or 400 people in attendance.  Many, many of them are widows.  Actually we have a church full of widows.  Some are young, some are old.  Most of them had wonderful marriages.  But none of them are bitter.  None of them are mad.  They all have accepted this as God's will for their life. 

4th)  Even though I am happy-go-lucky I have had my share of tragedies.  Though I don't like to focus on the worse aspects of my life, I have heard the words, "You have cancer" from my doctor.  I cried, I wept.  My husband cried and wept.  But I never asked "why" and I never got bitter.  I just accepted and kept enjoying life.  No matter what happends to me....God has still been good!  The very fact that I am saved and will not burn in hell for an enternity is enough to keep me shouting for the rest of my life.  And yes, if that sounds fake....so be it.

5th)  I fully believe life is what you make it.  Everyone, and I mean EVERYONE, has problems. If you want to be miserable....you will.  I, personally, don't enjoy being miserable so I get over things.  I learned that from my parents and grandparents.  I've never seen my momma D feel sorry for herself and get miserable.  My parents just get over things.  I learned from their example!  But most of all, I chose for myself, to be happy, love God, accept things I can't change, and be a good example of a loving human to my 4 children and 12 grandchildren.  I work hard every day to make people feel special and like I genuinely care!

Now, having said that, you may say I sound preachy.  That is ok.  Because, in the end, I am walking around with a smile, happy and content with my life.  It hasn't been an easy road...but talking about my trials won't help people.  They could care less about my trials and no matter what you say or tell them will only result in a bunch of comments like "you don't understand"  "you are just fake" and "you wouldn't think that if....."

The stories I could tell as a pastor's wife.  I've seen it both ways.  I saw one family who lost their child to drowning and they became very bitter.  They got out of church. Never smiled again.  Divorced.  Lost everything they had.  Even the 2 children who they still had became nasty, bitter kids.  A few years ago I saw another family lose a baby to drowning.  They stayed in church.  Started a support group.  Continued their lifestyle of gratitude and they have the sweetest kids.  Each person handled their issues differently.  One got bitter, one got better.

But, in the end, your attitude is what helps you get over things.  I choose to live life with eagerness and happiness.  Others chose to get bitter and negative. 

The Privilege of Soul-Winning

Key Verse - (1 Th 2:4) But as we were allowed of God to be put in trust with the gospel, even so we speak; not as pleasing men, but God, which trieth our hearts.

What is soul-winning?
• A privilege (2:4)
• • Sounding the Word (1:8)
• • • Sharing and giving (2:8)
• • • • Living a Separated life (2:10)
• • • Changing a life (1:9)
• • Saving others (Jude 23; Romans 10:1)
• Giving someone a new heart (Ezekiel 36:26)

Basically, it’s reaching someone for Christ. It is seeing people as lost and going to hell, then showing them the truth. They are then given an opportunity to accept or reject the Lord Jesus Christ. If they accept they are saved and you have won a soul. If they refuse, you haven’t won a soul but you are free from the guilt of allowing a person to burn eternally in hell and you are free from the bloody hands described in Ezekiel 3:18 and Ezekiel 33:8.

Who should be a soul-winner?

EVERYONE! But not everyone is allowed. It is a privilege.

(If you had a son who had to have heart surgery would you call someone who claimed to be a heart surgeon but yet they never went to a hospital? What if they never had studied the books on heart surgery? What if they came in a dirty, tacky swimsuit to the hospital? Would the hospital put a man like that on staff? -- Well, we are in the heart surgery business. We are the doctors who do the transplanting. Our church is the hospital. Our staff will be those who show up for the hospital meetings, study the heart-transplanting book, and our doctors will dress like doctors. You say, yea, but it is not what’s on the outside but what’s on the inside . . . then why do hospital staff wear uniforms? Why do they have dress standards for their nurses? Because it matters!

Grant it . . . every doctor . . . may be good and have their different areas of specialities but even the doctors follow hospitals procedures. They do it because the like the benefits (saved lives? money?) they receive by obeying the rules. In a church, everyone has their gifts and talents but if they don’t follow the procedures they don’t have the privileges of being used like someone who may not be as talented. But, those who obey have tasted the benefits . . .(saved lives? Blessings?) and they gladly obey the rules.

God needs soul-winners to complete his perfect plan . . . but He has procedures you must follow. He has standards. Anyone who refuses to submit to his plan doesn’t have the opportunity to be used of God like the submissive person. And His procedures are not hard. (1 John 5:3) For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous.)

Now, assuming that you do want to be a soul-winner and you are willing to follow the rules, here are few simple guidelines:

How do I Become a Soul-Winner?

1. Decide you want to be a soul-winner! ( I was 18 or 19 when I decided this)
• You’ll receive a crown in Heaven (2:19)
• It is associated with wisdom (Proverbs 11:30; Daniel 12:3)
• It brings joy (2:20)
• You can see the lives of others abound (4:1) (**Neighborhood kids in Choudrant**)
• It is God’s will (5:9)
• People are dying (4:13)
• Hell is real (Jude 23)(**Man in hospital drawn up from going to hell**)
• Christ is coming (3:13)
• It proves that you love others (2:8) (I have a hard time believing you love someone that you could care less if they go to hell)
• Who’s going to carry the faith on after you?(**I won all 4 of my kids to the Lord**)
• It is a testimony to others, it makes them burn

2. Began to pray for a soul!
• Pray for family that you know to be lost
• Pray for strangers that God will allow you to win to the Lord
• Pray that God will send someone your way

3. Expect Hindrances and sufferings (2:2; 2:15; 2:18)
• People will reject - They are not rejecting you but God
• Doors will slam in your face
• People will think you are being nosey
• The more you soul-win the more you become separated, the more you separate yourself the more people will think you are going off the deep end. But it is natural, you can’t stop your self.
• Deny yourself! (2:8) Get rid of excuses!

Rather sleep, Rather do house work, Shy, Don’t have time, Don’t know what to say, My breath stinks

4. Look for Opportunities
( Listen to your heart. God gives us a really strange feeling in our heart when we should witness. But don’t only witness when you get that strange feeling.)

• Pass tracts
• Friends of your kids
• While shopping
• Stop to help people
• Anytime God lays a burden
• On visitation
• At the altar
• Go visiting with other soul-winners
• E-mail
• Over telephone

5. Begin Talking
• Start a conversation or respond when one is started with you (Be Bold - 2:2; 1:8) If you saw someone in a burning building would you sit there and let them burn or would you scream, "Hey lady, this building is on fire, you need to get out!" Well, may I remind you that being "Shy" won’t hold water when you are standing before God Almighty. "Shy" is a sin just like lying, cursing, murder, and adultery." (Proverbs 28:1; Hebrews 13:6) ( REMEMBER PETER)

• Be complimentary. Find something to brag on. Be honest in sincere but try to encourage the person so they won’t turn you off. (2:3; 5:11)

• Be a good listener. It is easy to win someone to the Lord if they just told you about their marriage that’s falling apart.

• Look for an opportunity to inject "Well, let me ask you this, Are you 100 % sure you are going to heaven when you die?" or its equivalent.

• Say "Wouldn’t you like to know?"

• Be gentle (2:7)

6. Present the clear truth of salvation
• Just tell the simple truth. (2:5)
• Don’t argue, stick to the plan. The devil will try to get them onto another subject. Refused to be detoured.
• Use the Roman’s Road:  Romans 3:23, Romans 6:23, Romans 5:8, Romans 10:9-10,13
• Keep it simple and clear
• Use your testimony and illustrations
• Ask them if they are willing to obey the Bible and believe in their heart.
• Be very clear and explain every detail
• Lead them in a prayer

7. Follow Up
• Give assurance (a fireman wouldn’t throw you back in a fire)
Romans 8:35-39, Hebrews 13:5b, John 3:16

• Tell them to make it public
Romans 10:11

• Raise them spiritually as if they were your child (3:10; 4:1)

• Teach them about baptism  1 Peter 3:21

• Bring them to church WITH you

• Pray for them every day.

　

　

Biblical Health

I'm no expert or doctor.  However, I have always been interested in natural health and remedies.  I raised four children without a doctor (except a few stitches now and then).  And none of my children ever took an antibiotic while growing up.  Let me preface this by saying I am not against doctors.  My neighbor and one of  our good friends is medical doctor and I often consult him.  He is a man of great wisdom and knowledge.  However, when I was raising my children I didn't have the money to spend on such things and I was fortunate enough to try home remedies that worked so I didn't have to spend the countless hours in a doctor's office.

How can one stay healthy?  How can you keep your kids and husband healthy?  The Bible has some guidelines that I will point out here.  Having good health is important because you can reach the lost in a much more aggressive way.  You can go and do for others. If you have bad health you have others doing for you.  Health helps you to better enjoy your fellowship with God. However, bad health is not an excuse not to serve God!

Why do people get sick?

Why do people get sick? We know health is God's will but it may not be complete in this life.  Everyone of us will be sick at some time in this life.  Even apart from our final encounter with injury or disease, there will be occasions when we suffer from injury or disease and recover.  In the New Testament, Jesus didn't heal all he could have healed (John 5:3-5).  Paul (2 Corinthians 12:7-10) and Timothy (1 Timothy 5:23) and Epaphroditus (Philippians 2:25-27) and Trophimus (2 Timothy 4:20) all had some sort of sickness.  Perfect health will only be obtained after this life.  So what are some possible reasons people get sick?

1.  A test from God to see if we will still serve Him.
Book of Job - Can you praise God in bad health?

 

2.  A trial from Satan to keep us from serving God.
Paul (2 Corinthians 12:7) Satan wants to stop you from reaching souls (Isaiah 37:3).

 

3.  In order us to learn to care for the sick.
It may be used to teach both the patient and his attendants needed lessons in patience and grace. (2 Corinthians 1:4) Not all sick are saved and we need to know how to comfort those people.

 

4.  Natural old age.
Our bodies are feeble and the wear and tear on them is great. Genesis 48:1 (Jacob)

 

5.  Sowing and Reaping.
Just as the house of God, the temple, needs repair so does God's temple, the body! 
1 Corinthians 11:29‑30 - Not taking the Lord's supper properly

 

6.  Disobedience to God's Word.
Deuteronomy 28:62‑68, Jeremiah 30:12‑13, 2 Chronicles 21:14‑15,18

 

7.  And the opportunity for God to get some glory.
Often after people heal from a sickness they will say "praise God",  "thank God" and many other gratitudes about how God healed them.  It also brings churches and families and individuals to their knees.  Nothing will bring a person to prayer like hearing the words, "You have cancer."  Believe me, I know.  I have had cancer.

 

How to heal and get well from sickness:

How to heal and get well from sickness:The best way to keep from getting sick and preventive!  If you will do the following you will prevent most sickness!

1.  Prayer and Faith!
Malachi 4:2 - God has healing in his wings!

Matthew 4:23 - Jesus could heal then and he can now!

Jeremiah 30:17, Jeremiah 33:6

Psalms 103:3 -  Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases;

2.  Scripture Reading
Proverbs 3:8, Proverbs 4:22

3.  Repenting/Living Right
Bitterness makes you sick. (Proverbs 14:30; Proverbs 13:12)

Exodus 15:26 (Live right and God will bless you with health.

Deuteronomy 7:15

4.  Hard Work
Sweating is very good for the body.  It causes it to release toxins.

Hebrews 4:11, Proverbs 18:9, Proverbs 10:16

5.  Proper Rest
Exodus 23:12, Exodus 34:21, Mark 6:31

6.  Fasting
This is very good for your body.  It gives it a rest. During this rest it is rebuilding. I personally have done two 40-day fast.  I always feel better and cleaner after a fast.

Exodus 24:18 -long fast

Judges 20:26 - short fast

2 Samuel 12:16, Ezra 8:23, Nehemiah 1:4, Matthew 4:2, Matthew 17:21

7.  Sunshine / Fresh Air
Go outside and sit.  Take a walk.  One preacher said (George Mueller) that we need to walk 20 minutes everyday.  Breathe deeply as you walk.  Make your kids go outside.  Everyone knows we need 20 minutes of sunshine daily in order to make vitamin D.

8.  Water
Water is cleansing.  There 396 mentions of water in the Bible.  Drink water.  Give up all the cokes that rob us of bone density, cause bone spurs, and destroy our teeth.  Besides, water is free which causes less stress which is healthy!

9.  Touching
Make it a habit of massaging your spouse and kids. When I was raising children we had family devotion every night and after devotion we'd pray.  I would rub my children's backs while they prayed. The tables will turn and when you need to be touched you will reap what you sowed.  Touching keeps you healthy.

Matthew 9:20, Matthew 14:35‑36

10. Laughter (Good attitude)
Proverbs 16:24, Proverbs 17:22

Don't talk sickness.  Some people actually will bring bad health on their children by talking     about it all the time.  Make your kids think that it is wonderful to be healthy.  Don't baby them to death every time they get a cold. Brag on their health.  If they know they will get your attention by having a runny nose, you can believe their nose is going to run.

11. Proper Diet
A well balanced diet is very important.  We need vitamins and minerals for our bodies to properly function. Certain vitamins are wonderful for sickness . . . such as vitamin C is great for colds and the flu.  God intended for us to eat right and eat heartily.  However, leave the dainties alone (Psalms 141:4; Proverbs 23:3).  One reason our kids are so sick is because they don't eat right.  You ought to train your kids to eat all foods (1 Corinthians 10:27; Luke 10:8)  Eating at regular times helps your digestive system.  It is a creature of habit.

 

Foods aren't just mentioned in the Bible to take up space.  A careful study of scriptural foods will help to keep you healthy.  Here is a list of some scriptural foods and what I've found, after much study, that they can do to keep you healthy.  Most of the foods below can be found in a grocery store or a health food store. One other thought . . . realize that your doctor and family will think this is stupid, but before deciding for your self, try it.  Remember, home remedies heal slowly but with out side effects. America is too impatient.  Any food that is not listed in the Bible is noted with an *.

 

Aloe a.k.a.: Burn Plant (Numbers 24:6; Psalms 45:8; Proverbs 7:17; Song of Songs 4:14) Every family needs an aloe vera plant in their home.  Used on burns, scrapes, rashes, and sunburn)

 

Almonds - (Genesis 43:11 & 5 other times it's mentioned)  - Good for morning sickness.  Can help headaches.

 

Anise (Matthew 23:23) The whole plant can be eaten, like a salad. It is the seeds that have medicinal properties.  Helps indigestion, increases mother's milk, and is frequently adds to cough syrups.

 

Apple (Song of Songs 2:3; Song of Songs 2:5; Song of Songs 8:5; Joel 1:12) Apples get rid of my headaches.  They have a calming effect. Nausea.   Good for your teeth. Slightly laxative.  They have a cleansing effect on your digestive organs and have traditionally been believed to dissolve kidney or gallstones because of the acidity.

 

* Banana - Diarrhea, Rich in minerals that help to reproduce what you lose with diarrhea. Good for the circulation. The banana is a staple food of many tropical peoples. The ripe fruit contains many of the necessary elements that are essential for a balanced

 

*Arnica - good for bruising, soreness, and aches. diet. Although it is 75 percent water, the banana also contains fat, natural sugars, protein, potassium, and vitamins A, B complex, and C. A ripe banana is easily digested and it imparts quick energy.

 

*Basil - helps expel gas in infants.

 

Bay - (Psalms 37:35) Leaves are used for digestion (gas) and headaches.  You can make a tea from the leaves or include the leaves in soups, etc.

 

Beans - (2 Samuel 17:28; Ezekiel 4:9) A deficiency of iron is one of the causes of anemia.  Iron is absorbed by the intestines from foods such as meat (especially liver and fish), green vegetables, peas, and beans. About 60 percent of this iron is used in the hemoglobin, and about 25 percent is stored in the liver, spleen, and bone marrow for use as needed.

 

Bread - (Mentioned 361 times) High in roughage which keeps you regular.  (Not white bread (Ezekiel 4:9)! 

 

Butter - (Mentioned 11 times ) Butter is a rich source of vitamin A. Vitamins D and E and the minerals calcium and phosphorus are also present.

 

* Buttermilk - Used as a douche will cure yeast infection.

 

*Cabbage - Can cause gas. High in V-C and sulfur.  Sulfur is very good for cleansing the liver.    It has also been used to expel worms, soothe rheumatism.  It can heal burns, wounds, and insect bites.

 

*Cayenne - Opens the capillaries and soothes the stomach and mucous membranes.  Great for internal organs and used to treat constipation.  Good for people who tire easily.

 

* Celery - Good to lower blood pressure, gout, nerves.

 

* Chamomile - Calms

 

Cinnamon -  (Exodus 30:23; Proverbs 7:17; Revelation 18:13) The fruit and coarser pieces of bark when boiled yield a fragrant oil. It was one of the principal ingredients in the holy anointing oil).  It is good for stomach aches; nursing mothers, diarrhea, and it is slightly antiseptic.

 

* Clove - the oil is used for tooth aches.  With a Q-tip, place the oil directly on the painful tooth.

 

Coriander (Ex. 16:31; Num. 11:7) Also called cilantro. The seed to which the manna is likened in its form and color.  It is widely cultivated in Eastern countries and in the south of Europe for the sake of its seeds, which are in the form of a little ball of the size of a peppercorn. They are used medicinally and as a spice.  They are for arthritis.

 

Corn - (Mentioned over 102 times) The silk is used for bed-wetting and incontinence.  A tea is made from the silk.  Salted cornmeal is a traditional poultice for treating inflammation.

 

* Cranberries - Fresh is best!  Urinary tract infection.

 

Cucumbers (Numbers 11:5)

 

* Eucalyptus - antiseptic.  Cleans wounds (weaken with boiling water and then let cool).  Boil the leaves and inhale the steam for congestion. 

 

*  Fennel  - Used as a tea or in soups, etc.  Good for flatulence, stomach problems, morning sickness, colic in infants, expel worms, soothes intestines. 

 

Fig - (Mentioned 55 times) Was used medicinally in the Bible (2 Kings 20:7).

 

* Fingernail polish - Coat a toothache with it and it will ease the pain.  It can also be used on ringworms.

 

Garlic (Numbers 11:5) (My house always smelled like garlic during cold seasons.) Antibiotic. Placed on a wound it will quickly absorb into the blood stream and begin healing.  Colds & flu. Sore throats.  Eating raw garlic will prevent yeast infections.  Placed on abscessed tooth.  A cotton ball soaked in garlic oil in the ear stops ear infection.  If you like the healing properties but not the smell, soak in a bath for about 20 minutes after eating and brush your teeth. :-) Add lots of garlic to homemade or canned chicken soup.

 

* Ginger - Can strengthen lungs and kidneys.   It is a stimulate.  Helps motion sickness.   For stomach problems . . . diarrhea.  For hear burn.  For morning sickness.

 

Grape Juice & grapes & raisins - Much mentioned - for Cholesterol control.  Grapes contain minerals such as calcium and phosphorus and are a source of vitamin A.

 

Honey - (Occurs 56 times in the Bible) Good for Sore throats.  Constipation.  Colds.  Lemon and honey for colds and cough.  It builds the immune system to prepare it for coming colds. Honey and water wash for pink eye (Bro. Rolloff)

 

Melons - (Numbers 11:5) Diuretic

 

Milk  - (Listed 48 times )  Milk is rich in calcium, which is required for strong teeth and bones. It contains phosphorus, necessary for the proper growth and hardness of bones.  Riboflavin, niacin, folic acid, and thiamin, zinc, and vitamin A are present in cows' milk.  Another important contribution to nutrition is found in the amino acids provided by milk. These come from the milk's proteins and are used to build the body's own proteins. The milk proteins are broken down into amino acids in the stomach. These acids are absorbed into the bloodstream and circulated throughout the body. When cells require new protein, these amino acids are available for reassembly. Amino acids include isoleucine, leucine, lysine, threonine, and valine.

Mint  (Matthew 23:23; Luke 11:42; Deuteronomy 14:22) Gargle for sore throats, eat or drink the tea to help expel gas.  Helps headaches.  The really sweet candies do not have true peppermint in them.  Helps to break fevers if given in a strong tea.    Add a bit of honey to sweeten (except in infants). 

Olives - (48 times mentioned) The oil is used in Childbirth, dry hair conditioner, and earache.

 

Onions - (Numbers 11:5) Used to treat blood clots in legs of horses.  Cleanse the intestines.  They stimulate sweating.  They have been used to expel worms.  In China they are used to relieve high blood pressure.  Good to eat during a cold.

 

Oranges - Vitamin C! The demand for citrus fruits increased greatly after the 1890s when physicians found that people suffering from scurvy, a vitamin deficiency disease, could be cured by drinking the juice of oranges or other citrus fruits. Later, scientists discovered that the juice is beneficial because it is rich in vitamin C. It also contains some vitamin A, vitamin B1, and some of the minerals that the body needs. Colds, flu, sore throat, fever.  Peaches are also high in Vitamin C.

 

* Raspberries - Taken to help prevent miscarriage.   Gets the uterus back in shape after a baby. Relaxes muscle spasms.  

 

Rose - (Isaiah 35:1; Song of Songs 2:1) Used as an oil externally.  Calms.

 

Salt - (Natural sea salt) Used to season food (Job 6:6), and mixed with the fodder of cattle (Isa. 30:24). All meat-offerings were seasoned with salt (Lev. 2:13). To eat salt with one is to partake of his hospitality, to derive subsistence from him; and hence he who did so was bound to look after his host's interests (Ezra 4:14) A "covenant of salt" (Num. 18:19; 2 Chr. 13:5) was a covenant of perpetual obligation. New-born children were rubbed with salt (Ezek. 16:4). Disciples are likened unto salt, with reference to its cleansing and preserving uses (Matt. 5:13).  Foot Soaks for athletes foot. Breathe up a stopped up nose. Use to slough off dead skin. Use as a gargle for sore throats.

 

What not to drink or eat . . . animal fat, fried foods, processed foods (eat fresh!), candy, caffeine, or alcohol.

 

Fever - Fever is the bodies normal response to infection in the body.  It is a symptom not a cause.

Here is a quote from a medical book, written in 1998: Many doctors prefer to let a baby's natural defenses fight off mild infections, and reserve treatment such as antibiotics for more serious illnesses. Parents often mistakenly believe that high fever causes brain damage and that fevers left untreated only go higher. As a result of these misconceptions, parents often treat low-grade fevers unnecessarily.

For a fever under 104 degrees, it is best to let it run its course.  If it gets over 104 degrees then begin cooling the body slowly and gently.

 

Never panic at signs of ill health.  You and thousands of others before you have been sick and have been fine.

 

Some other things I have done to aid healing:
-Music (remember the story of David and Saul).
-Low Stress Life (raise good kids that don't stress you and DON'T MAKE ANYMORE BILLS!)
-Cleanliness
-Eat Right and elliminate bad foods
-Stay close to God!

What if I have to go to the doctor?
I chose going to the doctor should be a last resort.  I tried home remedies first and they worked 90% of the time.  If, after much prayer, you decide that you must go to the doctor then here are some guidelines:

Go to God first.....not last.....and not only briefly.
Asa in the Bible made seeking God the last resort (2 Chronicles 16:12; 1 Kings 15:23).
The woman with the issue of blood sought Christ as a last resort (Mark 5:26; Luke 8:43).

1.  Try to find a doctor who is a believer in Jesus Christ! (Job 13:4) Do this even if you have to drive our of town.

 

2.  A chiropractor should be considered because he doesn't use drugs or surgery to heal the body.  Nor does he look at your private parts.

 

3.  Ask for alternatives to medicines and surgeries.

 

4.  Remember modesty and ask your doctor to respect that.  Why do we just undress in front of a man because he has the title: Doctor?   If showing our nudity is wrong in front of other men then it is wrong in front of a doctor!?  Is it right to do wrong to do right?  Also, consider a lady doctor if your private areas have to be checked.  Another thought to that . . . are you going to let a male doctor see you baby girl naked?  When should we begin applying the following Biblical principles?
Genesis 9:22‑25, Exodus 32:25, Exodus 28:42, Isaiah 20:4, Leviticus 18:6‑19, John 21:7, Leviticus 20:17‑21, Revelation 16:15, Isaiah 47:1‑3, Genesis 3:21, Lamentations 1:8, Proverbs 31:21, Hosea 2:9, Mark 5:1‑15, Habakkuk 2:15, Luke 8:26‑35, Revelation 3:18                                      
                                                                
5.  Remember that it is good for a man not to touch a woman . . . therefore make choosing to go to the doctor  at the bottom of the list. 

Numbers 4:15 (Unholy shouldn't touch a holy thing.)  Our bodies are the temple of the holy ghost.

1 Chronicles 16:22 (God warned the people not to touch his anointed.)  We, as children of God, are anointed.  2 Corinthians 1:21 & Hebrews 1:9

1 Corinthians 7:1 (The famous verse we use often with our teens.)

6.  Think long and hard over allowing someone to cut your body.
Leviticus 21:5

 

 

 

 

Simple Pleasures

Excuse me, but this is both a recollection of pleasures I have experienced (a sampling) and is not meant to brag but rather for my own personal memories and for my children who were with me during most of these activites.

I've been to 7 countries and 49 states.  I've travelled from coast to coast.  I've been to every major city including Orlando, New York, Albany, San Francisco, Austin, Baton Rouge, New Orleans, Shreveport, Hot Springs, Atlanta, Pensecola, Sante Fe, Los Angeles, Portland, Seattle, Jacksonville, Greenville, Chattoonooga, Colorado Springs, San Diego, St. Paul, Detroit, Chicago, Indianapolis, Boston, Washington DC, Las Vegas, Oklahoma City, Ocean City, Atlantic City, Oklahoma City, Fort Worth, Dallas,  Charlotte, Baltimore, Memphis,  San Antonio, Phoenix, Philadelphia, Hershey,  Houston, San Jose, and Little Rock.  But....there is no place I'd rather be than Moultrie, Georgia.  It is there that I know the people, I can drive without a tourbus or taxi.  It is there that I am home.

Houses I've toured, explored or seen include Casa Verde, Winchester House, Hearst Castle, scores of antebellum homes in the South, ghost towns and restored villages such as the Agrirama and Colonial Williamsburg. 

I've lived in town and I've lived in the country.  I've been poor and I've had more than plenty.  I've lived in fallen down trailers and in a big, nice 5 bedroom house.  I now live in an RV and I love it the most.  Seventeen times in 30 years have my husband and I moved and the place I am at now is the best!
.
Mountains I've enjoyed close up include McKinley,  Stone, Mt. Rushmore, Ozarks, Petit Jean, Matterhorn Peak, Pikes Peak, El Capitan, Rockies, Brasstown Bald, Glacier National Park, Blue Ridge, Great Smokies, and Guadalupe. 

Famous Sites I've toured are Hollywood, Death Valley, Sunset Strip, Big Bend National Park, Statue of Liberty, Broadway, The Alamo, World Trade Center (before and after 9/11), Times Square, Ellis Island, Carlsbad Caverns, Staten Island Ferry, Manhatten, United Nations, Hoover Dam, Six Flags, U.S. Mint, Superdome, Eiffel Tower, Streetcars, Riverboats, Yellowstone National Park, Several Zoos, Yosemite National Park, Sequoia National Park, Space Needle, Corn Castle, St. Augustine, Coronado Island, Lincoln Memorial, The White House, Washington Memorial, Vietnam War, Memorial, Smithsonian Institute, Alcatraz, Fisherman's Wharf, Lombard Street, Chinatown, Cablecars, AstroWorld, Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, ROCKY Statue, Congress Hall and Crystal Caves.

Activities I have tried at least once, and many of them repeatedly, are spelunking, canoeing, white water rafting, swimming, tubing, and cliff jumping.  I've been snow-skiing and water skiing.  I've been mountain climbing, and rock climbing.

Modes of transportation.  I love to tour.  I've traveled in so many ways.  I crossed Ukraine on a train.  I've flown across the ocean in a jet.  I've flown to neighboring towns in a little plane.  I've toured the Duch, the Red Bus, and taxied all over our big cities.  I've RV'd across America. I've taken boat taxis, tour boats and even cruise ships.  My husband and I have enjoyed motorcycle excursions.  But my favorite way to travel is piled in a car with hubby and grandkids!

I said all this to say that I'd have given it all up for the one great pleasure I have.....my marriage.  I've only married once, and that was at 17 years old....30 years ago.  So all my activities have been shared with a partner.  I've had some pitfalls along the way.  I've had cancer.  We've done most all of our activities with very little money. 

Basically, I've done it all (all I want to do) and my favorite memories don't include any of these.  It includes the births of my 11 grandkids.  The time I spend with them each Saturday....in my own backyard! 

Financial Testings

We've owned rental property for 17 years.  For 17 years our renters have pretty much paid on time.  Now, I'm not saying that we've not had 1 or 2 a year who have left owing us a couple of thousand dollars but what I am saying is that if they got a couple of months behind, and was making no attempt to pay, we could evict them and they'd at least leave. 

Ever since we decided to move to Ecuador some have decided they don't have to pay anymore.  When we evict them they contest it and get 10 more days.  Never, in the history of our rentals, have we had someone contest an eviction notice....until now.  Is this something new that people have just learned how to do? 

My husband has two pieces of rentals that he totally allows families to live for free.  He gives people chance after chance.  He falls for every hard luck story.   He loves and tries to work with his renters.  He gives in with the down payments.  Yet, people continuously do not pay him.  If  he takes an eviction notice then he is considered mean and heartless but the people who are stealing from us are not anything but poor victims (even though they have done this repeatedly to others).

It is hard owning property.  It is hard because you really do love people and want to help them.  It is hard being thought of as "non-Christian" because you need your money.  I think people forget that we are using the properties to pay our bills (doctor bills, grocery bill, electric bill, car note). 

What is sad is the ones who are cheating us of our living are driving nicer cars than us, eating out more than us, are on governmental assisstance, and all have jobs.  Yet the courts always side with them.  We are the big, bad landowners!

I guess, I'd rather say, "I have been robbed but I have not robbed."  I would rather be the one stolen from than the one stealing!  To my knowledge, in our 30 years of marriage, we have NEVER left owing anyone anything.  And we have deeply struggles (and are still struggling) financially during these years.

(Rom 13:8) Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law.

(Exo 20:15) Thou shalt not steal.
(Psa 37:21a) The wicked borroweth, and payeth not again:

First Ecuador Post

Sunday was our last day at Grace Independent Baptist Church. We have a trip planned to visit Ecuador during the month of September. We are very excited but very nervous. Our grandaughter, Desiree, will be making this trip with us.

I was very emotional Sunday. It wasn't as easy as I had hoped. I wept every second of the day.   I loved the 17 years we spent here in Moultrie.  It has nothing but wonderful memories in my mind.   However, I am super excited to start phase 4 of our life. Phase 1 - childhood Phase 2 - Dope and drinking years Phase 3 - Pastoring years and Phase 4 - Missionaries.

I think often of how blessed I am. I have been to 49 states. I've been to every major city and every major tourist attraction. I've been poor and I've had plenty. I've loved and been loved. I have had a wonderful marriage. And I have 4 kids that are all good, decent people....but more than that....they all love the Lord and are in church faithfully.

What wonders await us in Ecuador? I have studied Spanish until my brain is tired. I've prayed, planned, and now I am about to go. God has been good to me!

Autumn Revival!

Grace Independent Baptist Church is so excited about the revival with Bro. Dan Carr and Bro. Chris Dallas.

How I Control a Sunday School Class

1. I am always in the class when it starts so that
it never “really” gets out of control and all of what seems out of control to an outsider is really “controlled chaos”....which helps get energy burned up!

2. I start out with singing and lots of energy burning songs. I offer rewards for those who sing the loudest, etc. My reward could be anything from a balloon to a tootsie roll. They have to put the reward in their pocket or I get it back.

3. I tell them that I have games planned and a quiet prize reward. I tell them that the games are super fun (and they are!!!!!) & we will ONLY play them if I can teach my lesson without interruptions. I also tell them that I will choose one kid for the quiet prize and if it is really hard to chose....I will pick two. (You would be surprised how many kids think they could never win first but will try for second place.)

4. I pray right before my lesson and mention kids by name. Often if I have 20 kids, I will pray for all 20! Fast, yes, but I will pray around the room. Kids love to hear their name mentioned in prayer.

5. As I teach, I ask questions. I walk around the room and gently touch a wiggly kid. If someone starts to talk I just stop and look at them. I will place my finger over my mouth and say, Shhhhh!

6. After each 2 or 3 points I will stop and say, “Let’s Review what we have learned so far.” I will ask 2 or 3 questions and offer a similar prize as the ones mentioned above for each correct answer. Then I will restart my lesson.

7. I smile a lot and never beg or threaten. I tell the kid only once to be quiet. Then I gently lay my finger on his shoulder and stare him down until he back down. They always do. I am smiling the whole time so the kids believes that he is doing a favor for a very nice teacher. He gets quiet because he likes me and believes I like him....and I do!

Why My Home is Heaven on Earth

1. Flowers, grass and trees.
I have such a variety of trees. I have apple trees, tangerine trees, peach trees, blueberry bushes, pecan trees, dogwood trees, oak trees, pine trees, eucalyptus trees, redwood trees, pomegranate trees, fig trees, cedar trees, pear trees, lemon trees.

I have flowers! Tiger lilies, spider lilies, roses, azaleas, Easter lilies, grape vine, jasmine, gladiolas, irises, camellias, and more!

I have beautiful green grass with fields of green but, I have small sections of wooded areas.

I live close to town....about a mile from a store and about 5 miles from Wal-mart....but I live in the country with lots of privacy.

There is a slow moving creek (edged with beautiful clover that stays green all year long) that runs across my back property that provides water for my animals, lodging for my ducks and hours of play for my grandchildren.

I have enough pecan trees to completely pay for my Christmas vacation to mom's every year.

Yes, I love my little heaven because of the sheer beauty of it.

2. The home itself.
No, it isn't the faniciest of homes but it suits me. It has 5 bedrooms with 4 being on one end and my bedroom (which I've made into a little apartment) on the opposite end. I could literally live in my bedroom. It has 3 full bathrooms. And, a large living room.

It is clean. It has huge windows and constantly looks bright and cheery. There is no clutter (except the closet which the grandkids keep their stuff and the dining room table when it is rent collecting time).

I have my mother's china displayed in the dining room. I love her china!

The kitchen has a table which we all eat around. I love to crowd around that table so much more than to eat in the dining room!!! The kitchen is a place of a lot of happenings around here. Every Saturday my 8 grandchildren come over and spend the night....the kitchen is where it is happening! Every Sunday I have a big get-together after church....the kitchen is wall-to-wall people! I love it.

I have 3 big porches and 3 porch swings! You can sit on the east porch and watch the sunrise. You can sit on the back porch and watch the animals. You can sit on the front porch and watch our renters (haha, I never sit on the front porch).

I do not have a TV. The only noise you hear in my home is the sound of wind blowing through the open doors and windows and, on occasion, the piano....when my children come home to visit.

3. The animals.
I love animals. I have cats, dogs, cows, goats, ducks, chickens, and lots of squirrels. I love to sit on my back porch and watch my animals. Every animal I have is tame (even though we do raise them for food).

And the animals provide hours of outside and active entertainment for my grandchildren.

4. The people.
I have the most pleasant home. There is no fighting or yelling. It is a happy place. People love to come visit and often do come! The people are happy. Right now I have 2 boarders....Lee and Amy. They are pleasant people who chip in and do their part.

But, the most wonderful person of my home is my husband. He is a true man of God. He is pleasant to me. He spends just the right amount of time with me. He takes care of me. He is brave and not afraid of confrontation. He is gentle in kind. He doesn't smoke, drink, cuss or look at pornography. He is a devoted husband who has shown me nothing but kindness. He was good to our children.

I'll admit, he does run the house. He definitely is the rooster of our home. But, the rest of us respect him because he is so good. He doesn't put off jobs that need be taken care of today. He wakes up early (5:00) and studies his Bible and prays. He prays for our marriage every day. He is also very careful to not wake me when he leaves.

He has done many SUPER romantic things in our 26 years of marriage but that is for another paper.

In the evening he walks with me to bring the animals in. We talk and hold hands and if we have time we sit on the porch and swing together.

Anyone who likes the simple life, would love my home.

Time to Grow Up

(1 Cor 13:11) When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things.

God gave us an example of the age at which a person should be mature.
(Luke 2:42-52) And when he was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem after the custom of the feast. And when they had fulfilled the days, as they returned, the child Jesus tarried behind in Jerusalem; and Joseph and his mother knew not of it. But they, supposing him to have been in the company, went a day's journey; and they sought him among their kinsfolk and acquaintance. And when they found him not, they turned back again to Jerusalem, seeking him. And it came to pass, that after 2three days they found him in the 1temple, sitting in the midst of the 3doctors, both 6hearing them, and 4asking them questions. And all that heard him were astonished at his understanding and 9answers. And when they saw him, they were amazed: and his mother said unto him, Son, why hast thou thus dealt with us? behold, thy father and I have sought thee sorrowing. And he said unto them, How is it that ye 5sought me? wist ye not that I 10must be about my 8Father's business? And they understood not the saying which he spake unto them. And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was 7subject unto them: but his mother kept all these sayings in her heart. And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and 11man.

Jesus was actually in the temple teaching when he was twelve. So I take this two-fold:

1. Our children should be through acting like kids at age 12 and should be about their earthly father’s business. They should put away the toys and be a blessing to their father. They should be in the kitchen helping momma or in the garage with daddy working!

2. As born-again children of God then we should, after 12 years of salvation, be about our Heavenly Father’s business. We should no longer need to be entertained or self-centered but should be working for our Father.

If, after 12 years, your children still can’t walk, feed themselves, dress themselves, or talk, we think they are backward. After 12 years as a Christian there are some things we should have outgrown and some things we should know. Babies need to grow . . . it takes a good 12 years to grow to the point of usability for Jesus. See why it’s important to get saved young? (That’s why it is important to disciple those you win to Christ.) Just think, if you get saved at 5 then at 17 you are ready to teach a class or be a missionary. (Heb 5:12)

Baby Christians are new Christians. They should have spiritual parents that help them grow. There is almost no way that a new born Christian can grow on his own. Just as a baby born of the flesh must have help to grow to maturity so must a spiritual baby.

Some Interesting Facts about Babies

1. Everyone loves babies - but an 8 year old acting like a baby is not cute. A church full of babies is fun and exciting but there needs to be some maturity there to help grow those babies or we have a bunch of retarded Christians.
2. Babies choke on meat - Meat is the deep things of God . . . Standards are deep. People just don’t understand the deep things of God. Can you imagine teaching a 3 month old baby how to multiply? Well how in the world can you expect a 3 month old Christian to multiply (win souls). It must be taught slowly and gradually. Some Christians, just like some babies, mature more rapidly that others but all normal babies can be mature by age 12.
3. Babies want constant attention - We have to teach our children little by little to stand alone. When you are spiritually training someone you have to give them a lot of attention or they will not make it as a Christian. (Prov 29:15) ... but a child left to himself bringeth his mother to shame.
4. Babies are self-centered - They want everything done their way.
5. Babies get sick easily - They catch attitudes. That is why you need to watch who your converts hang around.
6. Babies cry and complain - They have to be taught to be content. Sometimes you may chastise them and maybe tell them, “Now, Melinda, you are being a little critical. I am sure Jill didn’t mean anything by that.”Just as you would a earthly baby.
7. Babies have no modesty - Babies don’t see anything wrong with showing their thighs.(Isaiah 47:2-3)
8. Babies have no sense of danger - They don’t see anything wrong with rock music. They don’t see what’s wrong with mixed swimming. Just as fleshy babies have to be protected from a hot stove, we have to protect our spiritual children from a sin.
9. Babies get dirty quickly - Backslide! However, when a baby gets dirty what does the parent do? Well, that is what the spiritual parent should do . . . help clean them up!
10. Babies can’t handle responsibility - That is why we have a 6 months waiting period for teaching a Sunday school class. We need to know if you are a baby pretending to be an adult . . . you know . . . playing dress-up. You know, if you give me a few minutes alone with a child I can pretty much guess their physical age. If you give me a few minutes alone with a child of God I can pretty much guess their spiritual age.
11. Babies want to play all the time - They complain if church goes over 12:00. They can’t pray or study their Bible because it is over their head. That is why they need spiritual parents to tell them the Bible stories, teach them to read, and whet their appetite so they read on their own.
12. Babies need boundaries defined and repeated - Babies have to be told over and over what is right or wrong. They just can’t see it. They are very short-sighted.
13. Babies are takers - Gimmy! They have to be taught to give.

A Good Test of Maturity -
Jesus at 12 was:

1. He was at church
2. He was responsible
3. He hung around the right crowd
4. He hungered for truth
5. He was respectful
6. He listened to counsel
7. He was obedient to authority
8. He was totally dedicated to God (godly)
9. He was teaching others about His father
10. He had a purpose (Goal)
11. He had a pleasant personality

Here are what spiritual parents need to give their spiritual children:
1. Proper atmosphere (Friendship and companionship) If they don’t hang around you then they will hang around somebody.
2. Nourishment (Food) You need to feed them at first.
3. Rest (Church) You get them there if you have to.
4. Exercise (Soulwinning) Take them with you. Church work also is applicable here.

Now, the reason we have Sunday School. . . It’s not ideal but its similar to a nursery . . . it takes up where parents are failing as spiritual leaders. We have got to win people to the Lord. We are only human so we can’t disciple everyone we reach but we should try our best. Sunday school is for the multitude that needs growing but don’t have the spiritual leadership they need. That is why we have Sunday school standards . . . to grow kids similarly so the kids can grow their full 12 years without contradictions. Remember consistency is the key to good parenting. If a kid gets one teacher that says you don’t have to go to Sunday school and another says you do, then you have a contradiction before spiritual maturity and you lose that kid. Yes, our kids are in Sunday school but when their 12 years of spiritual maturity is up they need to be prepared for their spiritual future.

Problems People with Little Faith Face

Luk 18:8 I tell you that he will avenge them speedily. Nevertheless when the Son of man cometh, shall he find faith on the earth?

Naturally the world lacks faith....but so does the church! As a pastor’s wife I see the lack of faith daily. People don’t truly believe God anymore.
• Marriages break up because people don’t believe God can make their marriage great.
• Women don’t believe the part of the Bible that says to reverence her husband. “It may work for Mrs. Lisa but it you don’t know my husband.” etc.
• People run to Egypt for financial help because they don’t believe the Bible when it says “My God shall supply all your need.”
And I could go on and on. I’ve heard every excuse.

Even the Isrealites who saw the great miracles of God (parting of the Red Sea, the Manna, the earth opening up, the shoes that never wore out, the many battles won) didn’t have faith in God.
Deu 1:31 And in the wilderness, where thou hast seen how that the LORD thy God bare thee, as a man doth bear his son, in all the way that ye went, until ye came into this place.
Deu 1:32 Yet in this thing ye did not believe the LORD your God,

And they didn’t please God and life was tougher for them because they chose their own way instead of God’s.

Thoughts on faith:

1. Faithless people are the most miserable ones in the church:
Deu 32:20 And he said, I will hide my face from them, I will see what their end shall be: for they are a very froward generation, children in whom is no faith.

And in all their “frowardness” they drive a wedge between them and God (an often other people). Their prayers don’t get answered because God rewards faith.....not faithlessness.

These are the people that it is said, “They are always miserable. They never smile. I can’t please them.”

2. Faithless people are a fearful people.• Fearful that there won’t be enough money to pay the bills (or a McDonald hamburger)
• Fearful of bumps in the night
• Fearful of people
• Scared you won’t have any friends
• Afraid of “stepping out on faith”

Mat 8:26 And he saith unto them, Why are ye fearful, O ye of little faith? Then he arose, and rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a great calm.

(If you study this story you will see that Jesus SENT them into the storm. Storms are actually good for us. They reveal our faith or lack of faith.)

Mar 4:40 And he said unto them, Why are ye so fearful? how is it that ye have no faith?

3. Faithless people are disobedient to Jesus’ command.• This makes them disobedient

Mar 11:22 And Jesus answering saith unto them, Have faith in God. (Not a suggestion!)

4. Faithless people have trouble believing in God.
Trusting in God for all your needs to be met. Beleiving that He loves you and will never fail you. It is not taking a single thought on how you will be provided for.

Mat 6:24 No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.
Mat 6:25 Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment?
Mat 6:26 Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they?
Mat 6:27 Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature?
Mat 6:28 And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin:
Mat 6:29 And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.
Mat 6:30 Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith?
Mat 6:31 Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed?
Mat 6:32 (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things.
Mat 6:33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
Mat 6:34 Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.

5. Faithless people have fewer blessings.

Mat 9:29 Then touched he their eyes, saying, According to your faith be it unto you.

Php 4:19 But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.

6. Faithless people will sink when storms come.

Mat 14:25-31 And in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went unto them, walking on the sea. And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, It is a spirit; and they cried out for fear. But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid. And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water. And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus. But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me. And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?

7. Faithless people confuse works with faith.“Well I teach Sunday school. I go to church. I tithe.” These things are good....but they don’t please God. Remember that Muslims, Buddhist, and Jehovah Witness’ teach, attend church, and tithe, too.

Heb 11:6 But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.

Mat 23:23 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have omitted the weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone.

8. Faithless people should realize that faith is easy to get and keep.
However, it will be tried and tested. During the trials just keep on doing what you do to get faith (the Word of God) and you’ll keep it through the storms.

Rom 10:17 So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.

4 Things on my heart:

The Bible has so much on these subjects that I am not touching the surface. Most people really don’t care what the Bible says. I’ve had people tell me "I know what the Bible says but God will forgive me."

1. Kindness
I want to teach you a song: Eph 4:32 And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.
We don’t have to tell everything we feel. We don't have to be so blunt. You may say, "well, it’s my personality."
Pr 29:11 ¶ A fool uttereth all his mind: but a wise man keepeth it in till afterwards.
Pr 12:16 ¶ A fool's wrath is presently known: but a prudent man covereth shame.

I hear often, "Sometimes people think I am mad when I am not." This is a serious problem. I feel like it should be corrected. If people think you are mad then it is because you LOOK mad or SOUND mad. And I’d almost be willing to bet that you probably are quick-tempered or easily angered. Consider asking God to help your countenance.

Remember the story of Joseph? He seemingly had ever right to be unkind.
Ge 50:21 Now therefore fear ye not: I will nourish you, and your little ones. And he comforted them, and spake kindly unto them.

King Rehoboam wondered how to lead his people. He asked counsel of two groups. One was the old men and the other was the young. Here is the counsel of the old men.
2Ch 10:7 And they spake unto him, saying, If thou be kind to this people, and please them, and speak good words to them, they will be thy servants for ever.

When you must rebuke someone (even in a church situation) try doing what the Bible says: (And you don’t have to rebuke everyone about everything. Be selective with your rebukes. Why hurt people?)
Pr 15:1 ¶ A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.

Would you be considered a Proverbs 31 woman?
Pr 31:26 She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness.

This should be applied to visitors. Every maturing Christian should get out of their seat and welcome visitors.

2. Building your house
I want to talk to you about the way a woman should treat her husband. I have had my feel of mean women. Where are these girls learning this hateful, meanness that spews from their mouths? Has sex won you the right to be hateful? Because you have something you can hold over your husband’s head you feel you can demand him to obey you? I agree, we have weak men who don’t know how to handle a mean woman....but it is time that we, as women learn to treat our husbands well!
Pr 14:1 ¶ Every wise woman buildeth her house: but the foolish plucketh it down with her hands.
Hands represent work. A foolish woman plucks down everything a man does. He can’t do anything right for you. Has your house increased?
Pr 9:13 ¶ A foolish woman is clamorous: she is simple, and knoweth nothing.
by implication, to be in great commotion or tumult, to rage, war, moan, clamor:--clamorous, concourse, cry aloud, be disquieted, loud, mourn, be moved, make a noise, rage, roar, sound, be troubled, make in tumult, tumultuous, be in an uproar.

Does it not bother you that God says you are a fool? Do you not care? If you do not care about this is it any wonder that your house is not a beautiful example of God’s grace and goodness? Is it not any wonder that your kids rebel?

Pr 31:10 ¶ Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies.
11 The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil.
12 She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life.
It saddens me that we have churches full of proud, arrogant women. No man is going to tell them what to do. Or they go from man to man hoping to find one that satisfies them....and they never will. Satisfaction comes from giving, loving, and sacrificing. Contentment is a conscious act. You must determine that you are going to build your husband into something wonderful.
Quit nagging.

3. Loyalty
How can people just walk out of a marriage or walk out of church and never come back. They are not loyal. This is a character trait that my husband and daughter are very strong in. My husband should have left me many times over. Everyone would have agreed with him in leaving me. But he was loyal. You can stab April in the back a hundred times and she may break fellowship but she never quits hurting over you. She always will seek ways to help you get right.
Pr 17:17 ¶ A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.
Mt 5:33 ¶ Again, ye have heard that it hath been said by them of old time, Thou shalt not forswear thyself, but shalt perform unto the Lord thine oaths:
De 23:23 That which is gone out of thy lips thou shalt keep and perform; even a freewill offering, according as thou hast vowed unto the LORD thy God, which thou hast promised with thy mouth. (It doesn’t say what you mean in your heart....it says what you said with your mouth!)
Nu 30:2 If a man vow a vow unto the LORD, or swear an oath to bind his soul with a bond; he shall not break his word, he shall do according to all that proceedeth out of his mouth.

Now imagine with me....a kid. Their mother ask them to clean their room. They look at momma and say, "NO!" So their mother says, "You better get in their in clean your room now! I am your mother and you better obey me." And the kids says, "I don’t care what you say....I am NOT going to obey you!" Would you think that kids loves her mother? Of course not! Well, this is what you have done to God! You have said, "I don’t care what the Bible says....I am NOT going to work my marriage out."

What if that kids says, "I am a special circumstance....I just KNOW you will show me mercy." That parent is going to say, "You must obey me. You are NOT a special circumstance...you are a rebel." And how would you look at that kid? Would you trust that kid? Would you want to be around that kid? (Even if the sin is not toward you?)

I know people are going to disobey the word. They aren’t going to be loyal to God, church, family or anything. And how we should respond to such persons is a whole other lesson.

4. And the last thing is How to treat people who are unkind to you.

Rudeness is the weak man’s imitation of strength.
How should we respond when someone rebukes you and they are unkind, blunt or just plain out of their realm of authority.

We should respond with love. And we must also be careful that we are not the ones who are rude in the first place. We should find our self-worth in how we treat others, not in how they treat us. We can't control how others treat us. But we can control how we treat others. So what should we do?
Mt 5:9 Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.
10 Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
11 Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake.
12 Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.
Mt 5:7 Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.
Mt 7:12 ¶ Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.

Leadership and Child Training Thoughts

Why do kids react to parenting or leadership with sarcasm? Why must they make backtalk or roll their eyes? I believe it is a lack of parenting or leadership skills. I’ve come up with some key words that if you will implement into your life I guarantee you will see some major changes in the way your children treat you.

Key Word - Gentleness
Yelling is NOT gentle. Sarcasm is NOT gentle. Grabbing, slapping, nor pinching is NOT gentle.

Dictionary definition:
1. Mild; meek; soft; bland; not rough, harsh or severe; as a gentle nature, temper or disposition; a gentle manner; a gentle address; a gentle voice.
2. Tame; peaceable; not wild, turbulent or refractory; as a gentle horse or beast.
3. Soothing; pacific.
4. Treating with mildness; not violent.

Verses better explaining the key word:
Psa 18:35 Thou hast also given me the shield of thy salvation: and thy right hand hath holden me up, and thy gentleness hath made me great.
2Sa 22:36 Thou hast also given me the shield of thy salvation: and thy gentleness hath made me great.
2Co 10:1 Now I Paul myself beseech you by the meekness and gentleness of Christ, who in presence am base among you, but being absent am bold toward you:
Gal 5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,
Isa 40:11 He shall feed his flock like a shepherd: he shall gather the lambs with his arm, and carry them in his bosom, and shall gently lead those that are with young.
1Th 2:7 But we were gentle among you, even as a nurse cherisheth her children:
Gal 5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,
2Ti 2:24-25 And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth;

Key Word - Softly
Yelling and screaming is hardly soft. How do you remember responding to a yeller? Well the children in your life will respond about the same way. Try lowering your voice instead of raising it.

Dictionary definition:
1. Without hardness.
2. Not with force or violence; gently; as, he softly pressed my hand.
3. Not loudly; without noise; as, speak softly; walk softly.
4. Gently; placidly.
5. Mildly; tenderly.

Verses better explaining the key word:
Gen 33:14 Let my lord, I pray thee, pass over before his servant: and I will lead on softly, according as the cattle that goeth before me and the children be able to endure, until I come unto my lord unto Seir.
Pro 15:1 A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.
Pro 25:15 By long forbearing is a prince persuaded, and a soft tongue breaketh the bone.

Key Word - Sweetness
The kids when asked why they obey Mrs. Lisa and no one else: “Mrs. Lisa is sweet to us.” The old adage “You catch more flies with honey than vinegar” is absolutely true!

Dictionary definition:
1. Pleasing to the ear; soft; melodious; harmonious;
2. Mild; soft; gentle.
3. Grateful; pleasing.
4. A word of endearment.

Verses better explaining the key word:
Pro 16:21 The wise in heart shall be called prudent: and the sweetness of the lips increaseth learning.
Pro 16:24 Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones.
Ecc 12:10 The preacher sought to find out acceptable words: and that which was written was upright, even words of truth.
Luk 4:22 And all bare him witness, and wondered at the gracious words which proceeded out of his mouth. And they said, Is not this Joseph's son?

Key Word - Kindness
Shouldn’t adults be restricted to good manners also?

Dictionary definition:
1. Good will; benevolence;
2. that temper or disposition which delights in contributing to the happiness of others, which is exercised cheerfully in gratifying their wishes, supplying their wants or alleviating their distresses.

Pro 31:26 She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness.
1Co 13:4 Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up,
Eph 4:32 And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.
Col 3:12 Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering;
1Pe 3:8 Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous:
2Pe 1:7 And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity.

Key Word - Slow
Our life shouldn’t be filled with reactions. Be slow to make decisions. Be thoughtful and PRAYERFUL before you react. Determine beforehand how you will react to certain situations and then don’t deviate. And, should a new situation come up.....walk away and come back to it after you have thought it over.

Must we really have a bicker battle with a kid. Determine to refuse to argue, get sassy, or snap back at a kid.

Dictionary definition:
1. With moderate motion; not rapidly; not with velocity or celerity; as, to walk slowly.
2. Not soon; not early; not in a little time; not with hasty advance;
3. Not hastily; not rashly; not with precipitation;

Verses better explaining the key word:
Pro 15:18 A wrathful man stirreth up strife: but he that is slow to anger appeaseth strife.
Isa 53:7 He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth: he is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so he openeth not his mouth.
Mat 27:14 And he answered him to never a word; insomuch that the governor marvelled greatly.
Luk 21:19 In your patience possess ye your souls.
Jas 1:19 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:

Building Character in Toddlers

Many mothers are worn out & weary -- you get that way after 10 hours of -
--listening to screaming & fussing kids
--screaming & fussing at the kids
--cleaning house
--picking up after kids
--trying to repair things the kids broke
--chasing kids
--feeling like nothing productive came out of the day

Toddlers are at a wonderful age. They are at an age of learning & exploring. Your day shouldn't be work, work, work. It should have victories & fun. Not everyday is going to be perfect but you should have more victories than failures. We know it can be done because God commands us to teach our children. Every minute of every day should be for learning! Here is the main problem:

CHILDREN ARE LET LOOSE IN THE HOUSE!
--they tear things up
--they are noisy
--they fight with one another
--they make messes
--they are discontented and bored

Thus......mother becomes a nervous wreck. I'm going to give you lots of advice today but I want to first say that your personal devotion is of utmost importance. It is that devotion that's going to keep you from going insane. It is that devotion that is going to keep you from abusing your children either verbally or physically.

What do you do with your children all day? Good question. I am going to give some advice that worked for me.

1. Wake kids up at a certain time every morning, Never say "I'll let the kids sleep in today so I can get some housework done." It won't work. They kids will be grumpy and they are being trained that they are in the way. They are being denied the opportunity to do chores and learn to work.

Proverbs 6:9 - How long wilt thou sleep, O sluggard? when wilt thou arise out of thy sleep?

2. Keep a big clock in the room that is easily seen by you and the toddlers. This clock is there so they can know when their time is up to do a certain activity. Keep the kid's activities in an area of the house that you can see well. Sometimes that may be the living room floor. (This also teaches them to tell time without any effort at all.)

Proverbs 29:15 - The rod and reproof give wisdom: but a child left to himself bringeth his mother to shame.

3. Make the children sit at a meal time for 30 minutes. That gives you time to eat and pick up. It also gives you time to teach meal manners.

4. Give the kids chores and insist that they are completed within 1 hour of waking (or completion of breakfast). Anytime they have after doing their chores is free time. Write these chores down and never budge. I always had chores done before breakfast. No chores....no breakfast.

5. Get rid of 90% of all their toys. With structured time they don't need them. Toys are not always good for children. Have maybe 4 or 5 toys they can play with during "free" time but the rest of structured items are kept put away. This makes them special.

6. Each structured activity should last about 30 minutes. This gives you 5 minutes to show them what they are supposed to be doing and 5 minutes clean-up. That gives them 20 minutes to sit or stand to do that activity. The 20 minutes is yours. Set the time limit. They must complete the full time even if they are bored. And they must put that activity away even if they are having a wonderful time. Use activities they really love as rewards.

7. At first you will be disciplining a lot to keep the kids seated and contented. Especially if they are used to going from toy to toy and have had many toys. But it won't take long and they will learn to enjoy that activity. Once you know you have no choice you become content and then you even learn to enjoy your work.

8. Use variety in the activities. Every day the children should wonder what they will learn or do. Some activities they will like, some they won't. They must participate in all activities. (Like life) They should never be allowed to say "I don't want to." These activities will gradually switch to schoolwork. The kids will hardly notice they are doing school because of the gradual change.

9. A one hour rest time should be required ever day. This time is your free time. Please don't let the children sleep for a long time because you are being selfish. And don't let the kids get up. They need to learn to rest quietly. This is training them for their future prayer life. How many adults can't pray 10 minutes with out becoming restless and bored! Had they learned to rest for one hour as a child they might could pray.

10. Outside time should be required. Outside time is better if you have activities (e.g. gardening, swimming, picnic, etc.) But at least 30 minutes a day the children should be required to go outside. Yes, even in winter. Even rainy days can be fun. If you have a porch they can play on the porch. Set boundaries in the yard. Teach the children where they can go from the beginning. Take the time and walk the yard saying no to the areas outside the boundaries. However, children shouldn't be put outside all day just to get them out of your hair.

11. Thirty minutes should be spent each morning learning Scripture and singing. Make this a very fun and happy time. Use puppets, dolls, books, pictures and music to help the children learn the Bible. At the end of the time, pray.

12. Spend lots of time with them. When your kids are doing something....be there. Don't every go shopping or have a “family time” when one of your children are singing or preaching somewhere! Why make your kids angry because they “have to” go sing while there rest of the family gets to go play.

13. Training is more than spanking....it is time. It takes time to teach character. To teach a kid to sit still in church takes the same amount of time as it takes to teach them their ABC's. Take one 30 minute period and have the kids practice sitting in church, standing straight and tall, holding a songbook, etc.

14. Be consistent. Don't be a lying mother. Let your “Yeas be yeas” and your “nays be nays.”

15. Teach the kids boundaries (like sitting alone (reading or looking at a book) on a couch for a few minutes) so you can safely get things done. This gives you time to take a bath or cut up a chicken.

16. Self-control. Teach the kids to be quiet. No fighting should be allowed. Don't allow your children to fall in the floor and pitch a fit.

1 Thes. 4:11 - And that ye study to be quiet, and to do your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you;

17. Quit running the roads. If you do these things you will be able to carry your children anywhere. They will be able to sit in church. They will be a blessing to your home instead of a burden. It takes work at first to get their little spoiled selves satisfied but lots of firm consistency is the key. And, some mothers will have to quit running the roads and leaving the baby home with sister or brother. Why have children if you aren't planning on raising them?

And, yea, ladies, Daddy comes first. But why not ask him if you can have three days a week in which you can make a very structured life for the children? Most people just decide to let the public school give the kids the structure and don't even bother trying. "Well, they learn that in school." How terrible! You are their mother. STAY HOME and teach your children!

Titus 2:5 - To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed.

18. Go to all Church Activities. You want your children to be spiritual but yet you choose to stay home instead of go to preaching meetings. Teach your kids that to work for God you have to sacrifice at times.