What Does Your Home Look Like?



The wise woman builds her house, but the foolish pulls it down with her hands. (Proverbs 14:1)

What does your home look like? Are you taking the time to build your home or are you tearing it down with your own hands? While sitting and meditating on God and His goodness last night, He gave me something. He asked me how did I want my home to look? I was imagining in my mind that my "dream" home would be spacious and full of light. I love big, tall windows. There would be curtains of beautiful colors and they would sway when the wind blowed. I see the inside of my house being all white with pops of color here and there. Pinks, oranges, yellows,greens, etc... you know colors that excite the senses. I saw visitors in my home, barefoot. They were carefree. The food that I served in my home was delicious. There was music playing in the background, sort of like easy listening music and there was a sweet aroma throughout the home. O what a beautiful home my "dream" home would be. It would have a well manicured lawn and happy children everywhere. Now the current home that I live in, looks nothing like this as far as decorations and the likes, but as I was imagining my "dream" home, God was dealing with me in the spiritual realm. He was telling me that my home is already like this, not the roof over my head, but my tabernacle, my spirit man. It is already just as I imagined my "dream" home to be. Then He said that because my spiritual life is this way, I could turn my current home into this. I may not have all the fancy furnishings that my "dream" home had, but the atmosphere in that dream home could surely be the atmosphere in my current home.

I asked the Lord, how would I achieve this. How could I make my home a taste of heaven for all who dwell here? I was given Proverbs 14:1. He told me that through wisdom I can make my current home a taste of heaven.

I surely desire my home to be a home that my husband feels respected, cherished, and admired. A place where my children feel safe and a place where visitors or strangers never want to leave. I desire that my home be a place of refuge, a place where lives are changed. I desire a sweet aroma to fill this house. I desire my home to be a taste of heaven! What about your home? What are you doing to make sure your home is filled to the brim with love, joy, and peace? Are you a wise woman or are you a foolish woman? Are you seeking God for wisdom to help you build or are you going about this your own way and tearing down that which God has made you steward of? Your home is a castle and you, dear lady, are the Queen. Decide this day that you want your home to be a paradise for your family and for others. Seek God for wisdom so that you will build a beautiful haven for your loved ones!

You Are Loved by an Awesome God!

Bible Study- Ruth Chapter 3

Ruth 3:1-2

In verse one, Naomi said that she was seeking “rest” for Ruth. Since Ruth was a widow, it would be an ongoing concern for Ruth to earn a living and provide for herself even throughout her old age. It was customary that Jews would take care of their own, but even in those cases they had to be reminded by the leaders to do so:

But if any widow have children or nephews, let them learn first to shew piety at home, and to requite their parents: for that is good and acceptable before God. ~ 1 Timothy 1:4

Knowing that Boaz was related through Elimelech, Naomi seized the opportunity for Ruth to be his bride. With that hope in mind she instructed Ruth to approach him.

Verse two tells us that Boaz was winnowing barley in the threshing floor. Winnowing was a process of separating the wheat from the shaft. John the Baptist also used this analogy when he spoke of the coming Messiah:

Whose fan is in his hand, and he will thoroughly purge his floor, and gather his wheat into the garner; but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire. ~ Matthew 3:12

What do you suppose John the Baptist meant in that verse?

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The “fan” is a wind that was required in the process. Here’s a description of “winnowing” from Wikipedia.org:

[Winnowing] In its simplest form it involves throwing the mixture into the air so that the wind blows away the lighter chaff, while the heavier grains fall back down for recovery. Techniques included using a winnowing fan (a shaped basket shaken to raise the chaff) or using a tool (a winnowing fork) on a pile of harvested grain.

Ruth 3:3-5

I’m digging deep into this chapter because I believe that the story of kinsman redemption found in the book of Ruth is symbolic to our relationship with Christ, and God’s redeeming love. It’s exciting to see just how much symbolism is used and how the events of this story line up with the harvests as discussed in lessons one and two.

In verse three Naomi instructs Ruth to wash herself, anoint herself, and put on her raiment. These are the three things that we as Christians put on in a sense, as we prepare and wait for the return of our Lord.

1. Washing with water by the word is a continual process. As we read the word and follow God’s commandments.
2. Anoint means to smear, rub or smooth on. In Biblical times, Shepherds would anoint sheep with oil on the head and around the ears to protect the area from the infestation of insects (www.gotquestions.org/anointed.html). In the New Testament it is synonymous with the Holy Spirit upon God’s people. Anointing one with oil is a symbol of consecration. By the anointing of the Holy Spirit we are set apart from the world and purified.
3. Our raiment as believers is our robe of righteousness that covers our sin. It is the perfect conduct of Christ covering our imperfect sinful lives. It is given to us by the grace and forgiveness of God.

I will greatly rejoice in the LORD, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for he hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, he hath covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decketh himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorneth herself with her jewels. ~ Isaiah 61:10

In what ways if any is this similar to a modern bride preparing for marriage?

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Ruth 3:6-7

Here we read that Ruth went to Boaz softy, uncovered his feet and lay down. There are conflicting theories as to why she uncovered his feet, and what exactly that meant. I believe that we can best understand it by comparing her actions to that of a humble servant. She was in essence bowing at his feet in an act of submission rather than assuming the right to his kinship.

How can we apply this demonstration by Ruth to our relationship with our husbands, and also to our relationship toward Jesus Christ?

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Ruth 3:8-9

When Ruth says, “Spread therefore thy skirt over thine handmaid,” to Boaz, it was the same as saying “spread your wing” or “take me under thy wing of protection.” Then Ruth adds “For thou art a near kinsman.”

Skirt – Hebrew “Kanaph” Strong’s Concordance H3671 - wing, extremity, edge, winged, border, corner, shirt, skirt.

Before going any further with the study of Ruth, we need to look closely at the law of a kinsman in relation to marriage, and what a “kinsman redeemer” is. This following portion of scripture is very important in understanding Ruth chapters 2 and 3. In fact the "shoe" mentioned in the following portion of scripture will be found in our next study of chapter four.

Law of Kinship

"If brethren dwell together, and one of them die, and have no child, the wife of the dead shall not marry without unto a stranger: her husband's brother shall go in unto her, and take her to him to wife, and perform the duty of an husband's brother unto her. And it shall be, that the firstborn which she beareth shall succeed in the name of his brother which is dead, that his name be not put out of Israel. And if the man like not to take his brother's wife, then let his brother's wife go up to the gate unto the elders, and say, My husband's brother refuseth to raise up unto his brother a name in Israel, he will not perform the duty of my husband's brother. Then the elders of his city shall call him, and speak unto him: and if he stand to it, and say, I like not to take her; Then shall his brother's wife come unto him in the presence of the elders, and loose his shoe from off his foot, and spit in his face, and shall answer and say, So shall it be done unto that man that will not build up his brother's house. And his name shall be called in Israel, The house of him that hath his shoe loosed." ~ Deuteronomy 25:5-10

Kinsman Redemption:

The law of Kinsman Redemption is basically this. If a relative is sold as a servant to a stranger, the next of kin has a right to buy him back.

"And if a sojourner or stranger wax rich by thee, and thy brother that dwelleth by him wax poor, and sell himself unto the stranger or sojourner by thee, or to the stock of the stranger's family: After that he is sold he may be redeemed again; one of his brethren may redeem him: Either his uncle, or his uncle's son, may redeem him, or any that is nigh of kin unto him of his family may redeem him; or if he be able, he may redeem himself." ~ Leviticus 25:47-49

What does the word “redeem” mean? (See www.dictionary.com)

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How are we redeemed by Jesus Christ? Was it important that He was born of Jewish descent? Why or why not? (Compare Galatians 4:3-7)

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Ruth 3:10-11

Here we see that Boaz refers to Ruth as “virtuous.”

Virtuous – Hebrew “chayil” Strong’s Concordance H2428 – strength, power might

Why do you think that Boaz defined Ruth as a virtuous woman?

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Ruth 3:12-13

Boaz acknowledges his right of kinship, but points out that there is another man who is closer in relation to Naomi’s family. According to the law, this other relative would have to forego his right to the marriage first. (See reference to kinsman above).

Ruth 3:14-18

In the morning, Boaz sends Ruth with a gift, which she carries in her veil.

Veil – Hebrew “mitpachath” Strong’s Concordance H4304 meaning “a cloak.”

Upon returning home, Naomi asks, “Who art thou, my daughter?” Was Ruth betrothed to Boaz or not? Naomi wanted to know.

After filling Naomi in on the details, she advised Ruth to leave it in the hands of Boaz. In the same way, we can rest knowing that our salvation is in the hands of Jesus Christ.

Optional homework for the week:

Memorize Ruth 3:11

Underline some of the scriptures that stood out to you and add cross references for future study.

Read the third chapter again with some of the lessons in mind.

That closes our study on chapter three. I hope you'll come back next Monday for a study on chapter four.



Your Love For Me Is Forever

O how great God is! If you have not experienced or tried God, then I ask that you try Him this morning! I pray that you will find His love to be like no other love you have ever known. It takes time to grow in His love, but if you are willing He will be delighted to bathe you in His beauty and in His glory!! I thank God that He found me when He did and if He had not, who knows where I would be. I don't pretend to be good, I don't act like my past is full of excitement or joy. My past was a horrific life, it was full of lies, fornication, manipulation, etc.... packaged in a pretty box called the "good life". That box was full of all the things that God hates, which brings severe consequences. For the wages of sin is death! If you commit sin you will surely die, something in your life dies every time you sin. You may not see it with your physical eye, but I promise you that there has been a death and there will be a ripple effect. Sin doesn't just kill you but it contaminates everything around you. That is why God hates it! It destroys the souls of men/women!

I suggest you take a look at your own life this morning. See if your ways are pleasing to the God of this Universe!! Examine yourselves and always be honest with God and with yourself. Understand that, though, God is merciful He is also a judge. He is also a discerner of the hearts of men. He is the one who truly knows your heart and that can be good or bad! Don't fool yourselves today. Don't rely on your good deeds, rely and trust in Him alone for salvation. It doesn't matter how much you go to church, what matters is your obedience to a Holy God who cannot tolerate an ounce of sin! Don't play Him for a fool because He cannot be tricked or manipulated. If you are in sin I pray you will accept the free gift of Salvation and if you are a believer who is struggling with sin I pray you will repent, ask for His grace, and eradicate ALL sin from your life. It is of most importance and it cannot be put off. You must obey or you cannot guarantee your position or standing with Christ. You are not once saved always saved, that is a lie from Hell to keep you in bondage to sin! Please know that how God catches you is how He will judge you, it will not matter what you did on yesterday or what you were planning on doing tomorrow. What will count is how He finds you, for behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of Salvation.(2 Corinthians 6:2) That is why we are to live everyday as if we will meet the Lord.

Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal bodies that you should obey it in its lusts. And do not present your members(body, body parts) as instruments of unrighteousness to sin, but present yourselves to God as being alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness to God. (Romans 6:12-13)

No Greater Love- Fred Hammond

Bible Study- Ruth Chapter 2

Background - The Law of Gleaning

Before we get into chapter 2, we should take a close look at the law of gleaning. In Leviticus we see that gleaning was left for the poor. Farmers were instructed to only harvest the fields once so that the less fortunate would be provided for. They also left the edges and the corners for them to glean.

When you reap the harvest of your land, do not reap to the very edges of your field or gather the gleanings of your harvest. Do not go over your vineyard a second time or pick up the grapes that have fallen. Leave them for the poor and the foreigner. I am the LORD your God. ~ Leviticus 19:9-10, NIV

When you are harvesting in your field and you overlook a sheaf, do not go back to get it. Leave it for the foreigner, the fatherless and the widow, so that the LORD your God may bless you in all the work of your hands. When you beat the olives from your trees, do not go over the branches a second time. Leave what remains for the foreigner, the fatherless and the widow. When you harvest the grapes in your vineyard, do not go over the vines again. Leave what remains for the foreigner, the fatherless and the widow. Remember that you were slaves in Egypt. That is why I command you to do this. Deuteronomy 24:19-22, NIV

So when we see the famous painting of the gleaners, and when we hear it talked about in Ruth, we can now understand what gleaning was all about.

Before you start this study, please bow for a moment in a word of prayer, asking God to prepare your heart for His Word.

Chapter 2

People in the second chapter and the Hebrew meaning of their names:

Boaz = In him is strength

The Genealogy of Boaz
Ruth 2:1

In verse one, we are introduced to Boaz. We are told that Boaz is a relative (kinsman) of Naomi’s deceased husband, Elimelech. Let’s take a quick look at the genealogy in part to see where Boaz came from:

Abraham begat Isaac; and Isaac begat Jacob; and Jacob begat Judas [Judah] and his brethren; And Judas begat Phares and Zara of Thamar; and Phares begat Esrom; and Esrom begat Aram; And Aram begat Aminadab; and Aminadab begat Naasson; and Naasson begat Salmon; And Salmon begat Booz of Rachab [Rahab]; and Booz begat Obed of Ruth; and Obed begat Jesse; And Jesse begat David the king; and David the king begat Solomon of her that had been the wife of Urias; ~ Matthew 1:2-6, KJV

Look up Matthew chapter one to find the complete genealogy of Jesus Christ. List the five women that you find there:

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It’s interesting to note that in the genealogy of Jesus Christ 4 of the 5 women listed were prostitutes, fornicators, and a Moabite. This goes to show us that God doesn’t require people of perfection to do His work--He calls those with a pure and willing heart.

Ruth Joyfully Serving Naomi
Ruth 2:2-9

In verse 2 we see that Ruth offered to go to work for Naomi. Again we see loving kindness from this young woman who has vowed to stand by her mother-in-law.

Hard work is a virtue. We see it here in the virtuous character of Ruth, and again in Proverbs. Note these hard-working characteristics of the virtuous woman in Proverbs chapter 31:

• Works with eager hands. (13)
• Provides food for her family (15)
• She considers a field and buys it; out of her earnings she plants a vineyard. (16)
• She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks. (17)
• She sees that her trading is profitable, (18)
• She makes coverings for her bed; (22)
• She makes linen garments and sells them, and supplies the merchants with sashes. (24)

These women aren’t sitting around waiting to be served--they are joyfully willing to serve and do what it takes to contribute.

Are you joyfully serving your family? List some ways, if any, where you think that you might be able to give more of your time and talents:

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Verse three tells us that Ruth “haps” on the field of Boaz which means that she was there by chance. But looking at the entire story of Ruth and Boaz, and down the line to the birth of Christ, we see that what is often viewed as "good fortune" is a divine orchestration of God’s plan.

Ruth's Character Symbolic of The Gentiles
Ruth 2:10-12

In our study on Ruth chapter one, we learned that Naomi’s character typifies the Israelite s that were exiled and eventually returned to their land. We need to understand that these aren’t fictional characters, they are actual historical figures, but rather than just telling us a story for the sake of entertainment, the Word of God holds a message in each powerful word we read.

This symbolism illustrates the grace of God and His mercy toward mankind.

With that in mind, take note that in chapter two, we see Ruth’s character symbolizing the gentiles which were grafted in to the faith to be one with God’s people. Not by our own right, but by grace.

For I speak to you Gentiles, inasmuch as I am the apostle of the Gentiles, I magnify mine office. ~ Romans 11:13, KJV

And if some of the branches be broken off, and thou, being a wild olive tree, wert grafted in among them, and with them partakest of the root and fatness of the olive tree; Boast not against the branches. But if thou boast, thou bearest not the root, but the root thee. Thou wilt say then, The branches were broken off, that I might be grafted in. Well; because of unbelief they were broken off, and thou standest by faith. Be not highminded, but fear: ~ Romans 11:17-20, KV

After reading that, compare it with the kindness of Boaz in verse 9 and the humble reaction of Ruth in verse 10.

Then she fell on her face, and bowed herself to the ground, and said unto him, Why have I found grace in thine eyes, that thou shouldest take knowledge of me, seeing I am a stranger? (10)

The word “stranger” used here doesn’t have the same definition of “stranger” as we commonly know it. It is a biblical term for a foreigner. Ruth was humbled and grateful that Boaz offered grace to someone outside of his family, especially since she was a Moabite. Another word for stranger that we’ll often see used in scripture is “Gentile,” which denotes people who are not of Jewish decent.

Ruth's and the Famous Wall of Faith

Ruth is similar to those listed in the famous wall of faith found in Hebrews 11. Because of her obedience to leave her family and country to serve God, it was counted to her for faith.

List 11 of the faithful people found in Hebrews chapter 11:

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Complete this sentence:

Ruth 2:11: And Boaz answered and said unto her, It hath fully been shewed me, all that thou hast done unto thy mother in law since the death of thine husband: and how thou hast…

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Compare these verses from the wall of faith:

These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth. For they that say such things declare plainly that they seek a country. And truly, if they had been mindful of that country from whence they came out, they might have had opportunity to have returned. But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city. ~ Hebrews 11:13-16

Ruth was mindful of where she came from, and she desired to serve the God of the Israelite's—the one true God. She was willing to give up everything that she had to be a part of His people and their faith.

Consider your own life. What things are you still hanging onto? Are there people, addictions, or passions that are standing in the way of your faith? If so, list some of the areas that you need to work on:

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Boaz Considers Ruth a Relative and Friend
Ruth 2:13-17

Boaz recognized this faith in Ruth and in return accepted her into his household. Bestowing a great honor upon her, he invited her to share at his table (14).

Compare our relationship with Jesus:

Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you. ~ John 15:15

Ruth Shares Her Experience with Naomi
Ruth 2:18-21

Ruth returned home to Naomi with an ephah (a substantial amount, probably about 60 pounds) of barley, and told her about the kindness of Boaz.

Naomi was pleased that Boaz recognized the relationship (kinsman) that they had to him through her marriage to Elimelech. She credited God for his kindness on the living and the dead (20). She then explained to Ruth that Boaz was a close relative and one of their next kinsman.

Kinsman is another word for “relative.” While Boaz was a close relative, he wasn’t the closest/the nearest kinsman to them. We’ll discuss how this comes into play in the next two chapters.

The Wheat Harvest
Ruth 2:22

Ruth stayed close to the handmaidens of Boaz and gleaned in his fields through the barley harvest and the wheat harvest.

It’s interesting to note that the first chapter ends at the barley harvest, and the second chapter ends by mentioning the wheat harvest.

The Two Harvests Mentioned
April-May – Barley Harvest, corresponds to The Passover
June-July – Wheat Harvest, corresponds to The Feast of Pentecost

It was during this wheat harvest that Ruth is betrothed to Boaz as we will see in the next study. This foreshadows the day of Pentecost, in Acts chapter 2 when God established his church by pouring His spirit upon all believers.

Optional homework for the week:

Memorize Ruth 2:10

Underline some of the scriptures that stood out to you and add cross references for future study.

Read the second chapter again with some of the lessons in mind.

That closes our study on chapter two. I hope you'll come back next Monday for a study on chapter three.



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Bible Study- Ruth Chapter 1



Hello Everyone!! I have decided to do some bible studies through this blog. I want to start off reading in Ruth. As a woman who is seeking to be made into the image of Christ I thought Ruth may be a good place to start. Ruth is called "virtuous" in the bible and who wouldn't want to study a virtuous woman? We all know about the story of Ruth and how she was very devoted to her mother-in-law, Naomi. This is an incredible love story between two women that offers us a pattern to follow in our lives. (this study was taken from Darlene @time-warpwife.blogspot.com)

Before we start this study, let us take a moment to pray and ask the Lord to open our hearts to what He wants to reveal to us through His word.


Chapter 1

People in the first chapter and the Hebrew meaning of their names:

Elimelech- God is my King
Naomi- Loveable, pleasant
Mahlon- Sickly
Chilion- Wasting, puny
Ruth- Beauty, desirable, friend
Orpah- Fawn
Mara- Bitter

Elimelech and Naomi's Family

Ruth 1:1-5

We see in verse one that Elimelech and his wife Naomi took their two sons to live in the country of Moab. In studying this, it’s important that we understand who the Moabites were and why they were looked down upon by the Jews.

Moab was the son of Lot conceived by incest. In an attempt to preserve the seed of their father, Lot’s daughters caused him to get drunk, and without his knowledge they both conceived his children. The first born was Moab. Genesis 19:30-38

The book begins by telling us that a couple, of Jewish decent, Elimelech and Naomi, moved to the land of Moab with their two sons to escape the famine in Bethlehem-Judah. After their father died, the two sons married women of Moab.

Why do you think this union of marriage might have been looked down upon by the Israelites? Compare Deuteronomy 23:3-4 with Ruth 1:4.

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What were the names of the two women they married?

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What happened to the sons?

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Naomi’s Decision to Return to Judah
Ruth 1:6-15

Why did Naomi leave Moab and return to Judah?

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What reason did Naomi give in urging Orpah and Ruth to stay in Moab?
(verses 8-13)

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To understand what Naomi meant in these verses, it’s important to understand the Jewish law and customs regarding widows.

If brethren dwell together, and one of them die, and have no child, the wife of the dead shall not marry without unto a stranger: her husband's brother shall go in unto her, and take her to him to wife, and perform the duty of an husband's brother unto her. ~ Deuteronomy 25:5

Naomi wanted the best for them including a future with a husband and children.

Which daughter-in-law stayed and which left?

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The love and devotion that Naomi and her daughter-in-laws shared is an example to women of the devotion that we can share with our in-laws too.

Ruth’s Decision to Stay With Naomi
Ruth 1:16-18
Without a closer look at the underlying conflict between the two cultures, one might not fully understand that Ruth’s decision to stay with Naomi in verse 14 was an incredible sacrifice. Moving away from her people to live in a foreign land would limit her chances of finding a husband. It was commanded in their law that Israelites marry other Israelites, rather than seek out brides that serve pagan gods as the Moabites did. (Deuteronomy 7:2-3)

One of the most beautiful pieces of scripture is found in this chapter:

But Ruth replied, “Don’t urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God. Where you die I will die, and there I will be buried. May the LORD deal with me, be it ever so severely, if even death separates you and me. ~ Ruth 1:16-17

Becoming “one” with my husband means that his people became my people including every idiosyncrasy they might have. I love that even though my family is wonderfully-weird at times, my husband accepts them as his own flesh and blood. It’s one of the virtuous qualities that Ruth possessed and that we can own too. That doesn’t mean it’s necessarily going to be easy, in fact the decision that Ruth made to follow Naomi required a complete surrender of all that she was.

What five things did Ruth promise Naomi in her plead to follow?

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What are some of the admirable character traits in both Ruth and Naomi?

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Naomi and Ruth Arrive at Bethlehem
Ruth 1:19-21

When they arrived in Bethlehem, what did Naomi wish to be called? Why?

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Naomi’s character typifies the Israelites that were exiled and eventually returned to their land, but we can also see that she typifies the life of a sinner that comes home.

Like the prodigal son, she went out full and came home empty again. (v.21)
She wasn’t worthy of her name. Nor was the prodigal son, “And the son said unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy son.” Luke 15:21

The people welcomed her home. In the story of the prodigal son we read, “But the father said to his servants, Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet.” Luke 15:22

It’s important to note that when God brings you into His fellowship you come to Him broken and lost. We are nothing without the grace of God.

The Barley Harvest
Ruth 1:22

Barley in its ripened stage is known as “Abib.”The month of Abib (referred to as Nisan after the captivity) represents a new biblical year for the Jews and the start of Passover.

It’s interesting to note the correlation between the arrival of Naomi and Ruth in Bethlehem and the Israelites' freedom from Egypt, which are both marked by the Passover feast—again reinforcing the symbolism of Naomi typifying Israel.

Observe the month of Abib, and keep the passover unto the LORD thy God: for in the month of Abib the LORD thy God brought thee forth out of Egypt by night. ~ Deuteronomy 16:1

Optional homework for the week:

Memorize Ruth 1:16-17

Underline some of the scriptures that stood out to you and add cross references for future study.

Read the first chapter again with some of the lessons in mind.

That closes our study on chapter one. I hope you'll come back next Monday for a study on chapter 2.

  

There is No Specific Blueprint



There is no one way to create a joyful home. I am afraid that I was falling into the trap of thinking that I had to keep my home like another woman may keep her home. I was constantly looking for ways to be a better homemaker, mother, and wife. I was reading books and asking for advice. Don't get me wrong, it is okay to seek wisdom about these things because the bible implores us to seek Godly counsel, but I was looking for a specific blueprint. I have learned that there isn't one. The only instructions we have for this life is the Bible and our personal intimate relationship with Christ. I am learning that I can get ideas and tips on how to keep my home, be a wife, and a mother but only in my quiet time with the Lord will I find out His specific plan for me and my family. Whew!!! What a load off of my back because I certainly wanted to be the perfect June Cleaver type of wife and mother, but that is not realistic, at least not for me. God gave me a personality and when I became a believer he didn't take away my traits and the distinguishing things that make me, ME! My personality is now in submission to His ways and His will. I am still the woman that He made, but He is taking that personality that had been so perverted and disrupted from my bondage to the world and He is now cleaning it up and making it more pleasant and pure.

I am no longer confused and dazed about this daunting task in front of me. I get up everyday with a longing in my heart to be more like Christ and in turn He is making me into a beautiful homemaker, mother, and wife. I just look to Him for all that I need and by His grace I am finding my specific blueprint. I am finding out how to be the best wife to my husband and the best mother to my children.

So ladies don't get frustrated with trying to fit into some other woman's shoes. Be who God created you to be and enjoy the journey of being molded into the image of our Lord and Saviour, Christ Jesus. And in time you will be the perfect woman that is fit for her King!

Happy Homemaking!

Get Out of the Rat Race



Being content with what we have is often very hard. We live in a society where more is always better. Everywhere you turn people are striving to achieve more. More education, more money, more time, more, more, and more! It seems as if the train doesn't stop. Well I have decided to bow out of this rat race. I have made up in my mind that I will not continue to try and achieve more unless Christ leads me by his hand to more. I will not continue to pursue and chase the "American Dream" which in reality is a nightmare. We can see the nightmare unfolding before us at this very moment. There are foreclosures of epic proportions and the unemployment rate is staggering. People are having to downsize and they are losing their minds because of this. The dream that once made our future seem pleasant has now made our days hard and cold. To find a person smiling now is far and in between. It seems as if everyone is on edge and it will take only one more thing to make them finally explode.

This life is not hard but it can be made hard if we are constantly in a race to the top. This life was not meant to be competitive, it was meant to be lived simply and gracefully. We have filled this life with heartache and pain by our own actions and discontentment. Our lives are to be full of joy and peace, but instead we are being destroyed because of our lack of understanding. I pray that you all will bow out of this rat race and learn to slow yourselves down. Enjoy where you are in your life and don't strive so hard for more that you miss out on the many blessings that you have in front of you.

Learn to be content with what you have and life will become more fulfilling and peaceful. Choose today to be thankful and you are on your way to the greatest life ever lived!

As Unto The Lord



Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men. (Colossians 3:23) This is a great scripture and I have began to refer to it often because my original nature is a procrastinator and a bit lazy to be honest. It's hard for me to really get going and once I get going, I find it difficult to stick with what I had planned! As I keep this scripture in mind I am finding that I am now wholeheartedly setting my mind and heart on doing whatever I do with all diligence and with all my heart as unto the Lord.

My daily life looks like this: Make beds, wash clothes, fold clothes, wash dishes, dust/vacuum, cook, etc.... These are things that I do every single day. This kind of work gets old very quickly and sometimes I do it in a rush and don't really work at it with all my heart. Sometimes I just do it and get it over with so that I can move on to something more interesting. But lately God has been showing me that these are not just thankless tasks, but they are acts of worship to Him and that I should do them with more thoroughness and thankfulness. He said that when I do them I should do them as unto Him and that they are a sweet aroma in His nostrils when I wholeheartedly do them! Isn't that a blessing!! To know that these boring, mundane tasks are a sweet smelling savor to God and that He smiles as I do them with diligence and love. I was blessed as God was speaking that to my heart. I then began to get up with a new attitude. I began to look at these tasks with new eyes. I look at them joyfully now and I get excited about them. Wow!! What a change, to get excited about washing dishes and folding clothes! :) Well it's not the actual tasks that excite me, it's knowing that when I do them with cheerfulness, that God is smiling and is pleased. That is all I need in this life; for God to be pleased with whatever I do!

Do whatever you do as unto the Lord and you will see a change in your attitude and heart.

Happy Homemaking!!

Don't Become a Husband Watcher!



I was thinking today on how we are always trying to tell somebody else how to do their job. We are constantly sweeping around someone else's door. I wonder why we feel the need to do this? I want to apply this to being a HUSBAND WATCHER. Do you know what that is? It's a woman who knows what her husband is supposed to do and be and instead of taking care of her own faithfulness to her God designed role she takes on the self appointed role of playing "Holy Spirit" in her husband's life, pointing out all his faults and weaknesses. She even haults her own obedience to the Lord, because of her "when...then" attitude. "When he does this, then I'll do that!"

Ladies we should know better than that. We cannot believe that God is pleased with such behavior. You are not your husband's Holy Spirit. You are his wife and God has given you a role to play and instead of watching out for all that he is not doing, make sure you are doing what God assigned you to do. There is nothing wrong with being aware of our husband's responsibilities, but if he is not meeting his God given role then pray for him instead of bashing him. Lift him up before the Lord. Don't constantly nag him about what he isn't doing. Who wants to live in the house with a nagging wife?? The bible says that it is better to dwell on the roof top than in the house with a nagger. (Proverbs 21:19)

So search your hearts dear wives and instead of rating our husbands, let's check our own score in the Wife Department. How do you fare?  Do what you do as unto the Lord and you will reap your reward from Christ Jesus.

Happy Homemaking!!

Envy!

Now this is hard to admit, but I was once envious of a very close friend of mine! She seemed to have it all! She was gorgeous, smart, and sociable! Everyone liked her! I use to think; "No one can be this perfect," I'm sure she had flaws, but no one ever saw them. She was always there for people, you know the selfless type. If you needed something you knew you could call her. Whew! That had to be rough! Having to be like that all the time, nevertheless she was a great friend!


Well as time progressed I saw that I was a little envious of her success in life. We can all smile on the outside and act as if we are truly happy for people, all the while seething on the inside. I won't say I was seething, but I was definitely envious. I had planned my life to be a certain way. I wanted to have a successful career, the husband, the kids, the house with the picket fence and none of that happened for me, at least not in that order. But it was happening for her. It seemed as if all my dreams were becoming her reality! See envy is subtle, it doesn't come on you all at once. It sneaks up on you until it has full control and then you have resentment towards people for no apparent reason. Yes my friend was starting life out just the way I planned mine. She was getting the calls for the excellent jobs, and she was living in a beautiful community, she purchased a home, bought a new luxury vehicle. I mean it was like Valley Girls gone wild!! LOL!!


Well my little life was nothing in comparison to hers, or so I thought. I had gotten pregnant, wasn't married yet. Didn't have a job or a career for that matter. I did finish college, so at least I had that right? LOL!! I was feeling uber sorry for myself. I wasn't happy for her on the inside even though I smiled with her on the outside. I was there with her when she picked out her home and I was there with her through a lot of things, but on the inside I was pouting! I was feeling sorry for little old me. See that's what an envious heart does. It deceives you. It makes you think your life is miserable and everyone else's life is peachy! You never stop to think that everyone has problems and issues and life is not peachy all the time for everyone. All you can see is that your dreams are not being fulfilled and it seems as if the other person's are. Envy is a MONSTER and it must be killed. That dragon has to be slayed or else you will spend your whole life moaning, groaning and being discontent, always looking over at someone else's home and life. Never being thankful for that which God has given you.


Envy is a lot deeper than this little example that I have shared. Envy breaks the heart of God because what you are essentially saying to Him is that you want what He has given another person. Or that what He has given you is not good enough. That hurts God because His ways are perfect and what He has given you is His gift to you and is His best for you. Envy is a heart condition. Out of our hearts come these things. (Galatians 5:19-21) I honestly must say that being envious of my friend was God's way of showing me what was truly in my heart. See we women are good masqueraders! We can put on a face like no other. We can smile with you and then stab you in the back and go on like nothing ever happened. Women are very catty and majority of women deal with envy in some form. You can observe this in any situation and in any place. Go into a restaurant and watch how women look at other women, especially if a woman has a beautiful appearance or is wearing some beautiful attire. The other women GO IN on her. "Girl look at her! Now she does not have to be wearing all that makeup just to eat here at Applebee's" "Girl you see those shoes, they are so last year!" I could go on, but you get my drift. All of those comments are indicators of envy on the inside of you, deep down in that heart and it will come out in a moment's notice.


I said all of that to say this! I have been set free from that. I am no longer envious of anyone. I love that friend that I mentioned above and even though we don't talk as much now I really wish her much happiness in this life! I can really say that now and mean it! :) There is not an envious bone in my body any longer because Christ has put all of that under His feet and since I believe in Him it is now under my feet as well! Let us get rid of these evil roots in our hearts once and for all. The bible says that envy makes the bones rot and who wants rotten bones? Not me!! Allow God to show you the truth about what's down in your heart. Let Him expose you and then let Him cleanse you. He will do this, but only at your request and your yielding to His Spirit.


Cheers to being set free from all forms of evil!! :)





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Baked Eggplant Sticks

I don't know how many of you like eggplants, but here is quick recipe to enjoy them.

Baked Eggplant Sticks

Ingredients:

• 10 oz eggplant
• 1 tsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt and fresh cracked pepper
• 1/2 cup Italian Seasoned breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg white
• oil spray 
• 1 cup quick marinara sauce for dipping

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 450°. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and lightly spray with oil.

Cut ends off the eggplant. Slice eggplant in half, then into 1/4 inch thick slices. Lay each slice on the cutting board and cut into 1/4 inch strips. Be sure to cut all the strips the same size so they cook evenly.

Place eggplant strips in a bowl and season with olive oil, salt and pepper. Set aside.

Combine breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese in a bowl, and egg whites in another.

Dip a few strips of eggplant at a time into the egg whites, then into the breadcrumbs. Using a fork, remove eggplant from crumbs and place on the baking sheets. Spray with more oil and bake 10 minutes in the middle rack.

Turn over and bake an additional 5 minutes, or until golden. Serve hot.



Enjoy!!

Lay Aside Every Weight

Good Morning Ya'll!


What a beautiful day it is. It's raining here in south Georgia and all is quiet and calm in my home. Hubby is gone to work, kids are at school and I am here drinking hot apple cider and listening to a message entitled: Be Filled With The Spirit, by Glenn Jackson. I always listen to a message as I clean my home or when I am here alone. Hearing God's Word really sets me free and makes my day brighter and lighter.


The Word for today is: Gossip!! Whoa buddy!! That's some word!! Are you a gossip? I know I have been and I find that gossiping is very easy for women to do. We are constantly minding other people's affairs. We always have to share our opinion about another person. Well I must say that it isn't Godly and it is SIN!! It is wrong to sit around and talk about other's private affairs, 99% of the time what we are saying is not even true anyway so that means we are gossiping and lying all in one!! SMH!! The Lord directed women and men to not be idle. Being idle is one of the main reasons for gossip. We just don't have enough to do or we just won't do that which we should be doing. If we would keep our hands and minds occupied with productive activity we would not even have time to be minding someone else's business. I am ashamed that I have found myself doing this lately and I have repented and am now encouraging you to repent of it. Now to repent means to confess and to turn away from it. It doesn't mean you repeat this over and over. Once we confess and get forgiven we should ask for strength to not return to our vomit. We should not desire to gossip and if we have such a desire we should seek to be set free from it. We must look at gossip for what it really is: SIN and sin separates us from God. We cannot be in fellowship with Christ if we have sin on our lips and in our hearts! Gossip, backbiting, and slander ruins the reputation of others and we are called to love others as ourselves. Would we like it if other people sat around and discussed our private lives, or what they think is our private lives? I know I wouldn't like that, so I must give that same respect to others.


Let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us. (Hebrews 12:1) We can't run this race with weights on our legs. Well we can but we won't get very far and we will be exhausted and give up before we make it to the finish line. That is what Paul is trying to tell us. He is telling us to get rid of that thing that slows us down and will keep us from enduring and finishing the race. We are running a race. The trail is different for each individual but the goal is the same and the prize is Christ, who is eternal life. With that in mind, let us be encouraged to put these things off that trip us up and move forward to the finish line!!


Cheers to you all on winning this race!


I am enjoying some Hot Apple Cider on your behalf! :)





It's Fall Time

I love this time of the year! It is actually my favorite time. I love to feel the cool breeze against my skin and I like to watch the colors of the leaves change on the trees. This is harvest time. This is the time where you reap the rewards of your labor. I was talking to my mom this morning and she said this is the time where we bask in the awesomeness of God. The time where we just relax and live. That's what fall time means to her and that's what it means to me as well. I am not saying that this is the only time we are to do this, but this season just reminds you even more how our lives as believers is supposed to be like this everyday. We are to live a life totally dependent on Christ. Each and everyday we are to stand in awe of His majesty and His power. I love how nature reminds me of this truth!

The word for today is SUBMISSION! Scary word, huh? Most people hate this word and that is because many of them are ignorant of what it really means and some are in total rebellion against God and His instruction. Submission is voluntary and it's not something that should be forced upon anyone. God Himself does not even force us to submit. He desires that we voluntarily lay our lives down for Him and others. When submission is operating properly, one does not lose their identity in the process. Our personality grows and develops into that person that God created us to be. Whatever your situation, you should flourish and improve if Godly submission is in operation. So wives, submit to your husbands and allow him to be the leader in your home. It doesn't matter whether he is a believer or not, he is still the head of the household and should be treated as such. When we don't do this we are walking outside of God's will for our lives. We must learn to put our pride aside or our rebellion and voluntarily submit to our husbands. I promise you that your home will run more smoothly and operate efficiently when this is put into practice.

Dear Father,

First of all, I submit myself to you. Then Lord, help me to submit myself to my husband and his authority in our home. Help me Lord to see that you love me and that you only desire I live a fulfilled life and when I obey you I am walking in that fulfillment. Teach me to be careful to listen to the Holy Spirit and let Him guide me in these situations. Break my will Lord, and let your will be done. In Jesus' Name

Cheers to you ladies on your way to a beautiful home!

I am enjoying a fresh piece of apple cake and chai tea on your behalf! (hehe:)



My New Blog

Hello guys!!! This is my new blog! I hope you all will join me as I continue this exciting adventure called Life. The Joyous Home is a blog about my journey to being a Wife and Mother after God's Own Heart and creating a loving atmosphere for my growing family. I am so excited that I now realize my calling and purpose in this life. It feels good to wake up in the morning and know that you are doing EXACTLY what God has for you to do. There isn't a better feeling than that. So many people are on a search for meaning to their lives and in all honesty this life is a drag if there is no purpose for your living. This life is not all that grand if you are not waking up everyday and living intentionally. I hope to share with you all the journey to love, joy, and peace in this life. We can achieve that, you guys, in this lifetime, and I don't mean an artificial love, joy, and peace. I am talking the REAL DEAL HOLYFIELD!! :)

I desire to create a Joyous Home for my family, one where my husband feels honored, loved, and cherished and where my children feel safe, loved, and happy. I hope you all will embark on this journey with me as we travel the road less traveled. A road where our lives are poured out so that others may be blessed. A life of sacrificial love. A love that hurts soooo good!! My heart's cry in this life is to kill all of me so that Christ may reign supreme and His love be seen and experienced by others, through the death of my self. What better place to start the dying process than in my own home!!

Cheers to the road less traveled and the Joyous Home!

Love,

Stephanie