Maiden Of Purity

He Must Increase,but I Must Decrease....

2010-11-27T14:45:00.007-06:00

I turned a year older, school started, the days got colder and shorter, the leaves turned and are now all raked, Thanksgiving came, and now I sit and write the annual Christmas letter; through it all my blog was entirely forgotten!

I cannot believe how fast summer and fall went by. How quickly my life turned pages into another chapter. I have asked myself so many times...where has the time gone and taken me? As I sit on my desk and right out my thoughts I realize that the past few months have probably been the toughest months yet, nevertheless God has reminded me over and over that He is unchangeable, unstoppable, and impossible. When I thought that my world was falling apart, or when I didn't have the strength to climb the mountain, He was always close and holding my hand. He watched me take my first step in faith, yes He saw me stumble but because of those falls and the callous on my knees it has built a stronger character all around me. I went through storms with pounding thunder and great strikes. Every door that opened at some point, only closed days or weeks later. I lost so much; possessions, money, friends, etc. Through it all I could not see God one bit. I doubted Him, I shied and cried in fear. God could not help me until I accepted the fact that my life is not His life, and no matter what happens He is in ultimate control.

In September, the Lord brought me to a low point-possibilities shut, things taken away, friendships lost; what else Father? Only one more trial came my way, what more? My high school graduation, work, and babysitting money was stolen. Okay God, I give up! I uttered a cry from the depths of my soul, "Father, I'm done...I cannot do this on my own anymore! I'm broken, and I'm sorry for planning my future, it's yours!" From that moment on the Lord was able of working in my life. He was able of breaking chains, clearing dirty passage ways, and creating a new person and life. He began to show me His plans, His way, and His purpose for my life. Even though He has shown me the way through a clearer view, it hasn't been easy. However, I don't care anymore because everything I once had is lost, and I realized that it is not my life, BUT HIS! A strong woman once told me, "When God guides, He provides!" I was blessed by my boss and by a friend. When we learn to give up, the Father will return with greater!!

Through each battle, the Almighty blessed me even more. He brought new friends in my life. He showed me who my true and lasting friends are, the ones who will encourage me no matter what, and the ones who will tell me that God needs to cut here and there. I don't have much more to say, although Holy is the Lord, God Almighty. The trials aren't over yet...I know that there will be more. Nonetheless, my strength rests in the Lord. I am blessed all over!

"Take the first step in faith. You don't have to see the whole staircase. Just take the first step!" -Martin Luther King, Jr.

Through The Raging Seas...

2010-07-31T10:28:00.007-05:00

I am not capable of explaining all of the excuses I have, or the issues which have raised over the past many months. It has been a few months since I have posted, and at times I would have posted, nevertheless I have had many controversies, and there have been certain situations which have occurred, and it has brought me to say, that I simply cannot post anymore. I am all too confused with my own life, and my own purpose in this world. At times, I feel as if I have left the precious hand of Christ, and at other times, I feel as if I am right beside him. I know that my Savior loves, He lives, and He is always there for me; my God He was, and my God He's always going to be. I have gone down to believing that my purpose will never be revealed. I have been broken and bewildered about so many thoughts and occurrences. I graduated from high school in the mean time and will be turning 18 in 5 days, and am now on to a different road of adventure and opportunities. Nonetheless, at this point in my life, I cannot see God's will for me. I know that He is there, His grace is greater still, and all of my own choices, mean nothing. His arms are open wide for me, and I'm going and coming to Him each and everyday. My shameful scars, the pain I'm holding, is just going all before Jesus, because I know that I can come as I am. I see many of my friends walking with a clear direction. Going where God is leading them; I, on the other hand, am many times confused, I do not see the light, nor the stars shining. All I see is a tunnel full of darkness and yet many questions and answers which need light. I will not say that the past few months have been literally terrible, because I would be lying, I have been having a wonderful summer, with amazing and strong people to guide me and give me the strength and encouragement I need. However, I really wish that God would hear me again, and that He would acknowledge His servant to be torn and worn out. Nonetheless, without further ado, I have come to the conclusion that I will not continue my previous series. Everything from dating, to courtship, to singleness, and to purity, is something I feel that I cannot discuss with many of you anymore, because I do not have the answers to them. Sometimes I feel as if I'm alone, and God has his hand more on others than myself, however I know that those thoughts are from the evil one, and they are trying to corrupt me and bugle me down. It is a choice for me to either rejoice through a time, or to be entirely depressed and worried. This post may seem as if I'm lost in this world, hurt, and worried, yes that may seem the feeling and to be honest with you, I have felt like that, and sometimes still do. Although I have learned that I need to be strong, stronger than ever, so that I will not be thrown into the high waters, and even if I am, God will reveal the mystery to me. I was told that those who go through such hard times will be blessed beyond all measure. Oftentimes others see the clear direction, and doors are being opened. As for those like me, we cannot see the door, or the windows open, however we may struggle, hard or even harder, nevertheless the reward will be precious because we have endured the trials, and He will be faithful and great things will happen. Those words have been a life savior to me. If I'm about to give up, I remind myself on such words, words spoken by a great and wise friend of mine. I have talked to many, and to one great and strong friend who has been with me through it all. My parents have coached and are coaching me. It is the matter that I continue to stand and not give up. Dear friends, please understand this time of life as a test, and not as curse. God will bring His perfect will, won't He? I believe so, and if I have to wait for 1 year, or for 40 years wandering in the desert, than may it be. As long as I have Christ by my side, I can rejoice and live with joy. It is not easy, often desperate, and I pray that God will hear me, and will reach His arms out to me, but as I wait, I will praise Him. Praise in this storm, praise Him while I wait! The Lord is compassionate to those who are faithful to Him. Even though the storms are raging, I will sing His praise. Because He is too great for that too fail! Trials strengthen a person, I always believed that, and now that I'm going through a waiting period, I believe it with more passion! I know that I am loved by the King, by my parents, even when I try my own will, I am loved by my family, even when I disappoint them, and I am loved by my dear friend who is there with me. Sing, because I know that He will restore me!

Leaving on a Vacation...Suddenly!

2010-05-06T10:04:00.004-05:00

Just got news!! So, this week has been entirely crazy. Absolutely out of this world...a week where there is both ups and downs. At the beginning of the week, our three year old Labrador dog passed away. He developed cancer unknowingly and we had to put him to sleep on Tuesday morning. Something so horrible and heartbreaking. Because of that, the week started off really rough and hard. However, towards the end of the week, which I'm referring to today, things have lightened up again. My dad called us this morning, and surprisingly said, "Extend your school stuff until the middle of June, we're going to Texas!" Back home y'all!! :) It's crazy, as we only have 5 hours left and we'll be leaving. So, pray for our safety and for a fabulous time. I'll be back...of course! It's unreal because we never just say and go. We'll be going all the way down, almost to Mexico, to visit family; my uncle is graduating and we'll be seeing him as well as a ton of others. Then we'll go to San Antonio, and then to the lovely...HOUSTON!!!!!! :) Alright, all of y'all Texan bloggers...see ya soon! :) Until then...goodbye, and TEXAS HERE WE COME! :D

Courtship? Dating?-Purity (Part 3)

2010-05-01T13:54:00.000-05:00

Last night, I went to our neighbor's house and met with some wonderful young men and ladies. It was a lovely time and evening. As I was there, I could really sense similarities and like-mindedness. I also was intrigued to see other youth who strive to live the same way. However, one incident that really sparked me was this young lady and young man. They were both 21 and I saw them talk and converse with each other for a few minutes. Afterwards, the young lady came up to me and said, "I don't want you to get the wrong impression that I may be flirting or acting immodest, this young man and I are in a courtship right now, so if we are talking with each other, it's because of that, nothing else!" I thought that that was so precious and amazing. Wanting to make a statement that she is remaining pure and blameless and that nothing else is involved. It was so encouraging to talk with this young lady; hearing her side of courtship and how it all works. One thing that she did say was, "It's not how the books portray it to be!" That is so true. Oftentimes, the books lay the issue of courtship out as perfect and that the first one, is the one and that it always works. That is wonderful if the first guy or girl is the first one, although, we need to realize that it may not be the case. Anyways, this young lady was telling me how it is a long process, not something overnight, and not a relationship which happens in 6 months and then you're heading down the aisle. We began talking about dating and how destructive those relationships are because they advance too quickly. This young lady mentioned how it often is hard and a struggle as she has been in this courtship for a year and a half now, nevertheless, she also stated how it is worth it. The biggest mistake young people make, is rushing into a relationship all too fast, and then acknowledging the mess that they are in. I know a young man who is in a mess like this. He's only 20 and has a child already.

Being a teenager or a young adult can be very devastating and hard. We may think, "Will I be single forever?" The young lady that I mentioned above said that when she was about 16 or 17, she went through a very lonely time in her life. Constantly thinking how alone she was, and yet she didn't realize back then how God was her source, her only source, and it was at that point that she came to the exact existence that He was what she exactly needed. Many times, we are discouraged for just a spilt second or moment when we see others at our age who may be holding some one's hand, or sharing a part of another's life. However, that may seem all so sweet and cute, BUT, it is not right. On the outside, it looks like pure and true love. Nevertheless, deep in their hearts, they are empty and they are looking for THAT love. Dating is damaging to a person's heart, it is like taking ones heart, trying it out, experiencing with it, and then once it is dry up and can't give anymore love, they move on to the next wet and fulfilling heart. Boyfriend or girlfriend, that's something I hear often...where is your boyfriend? what, you don't have one? because?? Questions like these are so bothersome. Why is it that everyone thinks that whether you're in high school/college, or single that you need a boyfriend/girlfriend? I find it very destructive; seeing girls who are heartbroken because they want more. Guys who are trying to find that perfect, pure, and lasting love from their girlfriend, and yet they are turned down, because no human can give that love. Love comes from the Father above, He's the one who fills that empty heart, who consumes it with His fire and life.

Dating is a destroying relationship, it takes a girl and guy into something dangerous. I have heard of young girls saying, "He wants more from me! I'm not ready!" However, they feel pressured because perhaps their friends have already done that something more. It is a competition, and these young people are boasting about it...who they have had as their date, or what they did last night. Dating attacks the wrong areas of the person, and it only reveals a person's heart and attitude slightly. Certain topics are never considered, and as the world goes on, it is getting worse. I know that my parents dated, and they wish that they could of done the courtship route, however, they didn't know. And I'm not saying that God will punish them for that, but since you know, how can you do the opposite?

Have you ever seen this advertisements on the computer? Meet attractive singles in your area! Our society has clearly shown young people that picking out a girl or guy is a simple step, and before we get serious, we just need to 'try' each other out...and then perhaps move in with each other for a few years, and make sure that we are kid free, and then get married...if we feel comfortable. The word "parent" is never involved. Many young people believe that parents are too old to be involved in our love life...leave that up to me. Courtship, on the other hand simply addresses the parents as being the main factor, interlacing their words of wisdom and their experience. Keeping that close bond relationship with our parents is very important.
Many people do not know that a strong marriage began before the wedding day. It begins by building that relationship on a godly and strong foundation. Yes, many times couples come to the Lord later on in life, and through the grace and mercy of the Lord, it develops into a strong and lasting marriage. Although, why wait? why go through all of the pain, tears, and hardship, when you can start young?
Courtship is something very serious. Married life is very serious. We cannot jump into a friendship/relationship and not be serious. The greatest help and advice that I can give anyone is to seek the Lord's guidance, wisdom, and will. That is the greatest source, and through our single years, He is the one who will never let us down. You may think that He disappoints you, but that is your own heart. You are following your dreams and desires, not the Lord's. Our parents are our godly encouragement and counsel. Dating does not please God, it does not satisfy Him when we dump or give our love to anyone. We are made with a purpose a He created us beautifully and wonderfully.

The young lady that I conversed with last evening was so joyful; she had this character of optimism on her, a joy and a peace that God was in control of it all. She also involved and did not exclude in her parents. They were, as she said, "my advisers and wisdom"!
Divorce begins when we are foolish, not following our parents or the Lord's wisdom. Yes, some didn't know, however, that is a different story. I'm referring to those who do know the difference. You are a living sacrifice, a royal priesthood, and we ought to acquire ourselves to be holy, pure, and perfect before the Lord. He is the one who will judge our every action. As I said, choosing a spouse is a very thorough act. It needs to be sought out in wisdom, and we cannot get weak. Emotional purity is something most girls I know struggle with. They became all too fast attached to someone, and then all to fast experience a broken heart when it is not God's plan.

The Lord needs to be our desire, He is the one who can and will set us free from past relationships, heartbreaks, or painful wounds.
Oftentimes, it may take a 'fast' from a certain person. If you are struggling with a certain lady/guy, it may take strength or boldness to back away. Sharing our struggles, desires, or dreams with our parents or godly guardians is such a relieve. It takes that burden off of us, and it opens the door to something so special and personal. God loves us, and He cares about your love life. He wants the greatest thing for you, and if He has called you to be single, then so be it. That may be something so hard to swallow an accept, nevertheless, His purpose, is so worth it.

May the Lord's peace, guidance, and love be with each one of you! Whether you are going through some relationship, courtship, or just being a single guy or girl right now, dedicate each and every hour to the glory of God. And if you are one who has been in a dating experience, or are dating, please don't take my word for everything which I stated. Seek the Lord's counsel, and your own heart. Do you feel comfortable? Are your actions, conduct, or characteristics pleasing the Lord? It is a hard thing, and we all need to realize our mistakes, and even courtship can be done in the wrong way. However, when we follow the Lord's exact plan, it will be beautiful. We may have those scars, however, you don't have to be knocked down forever!

"Let no man despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, and in purity." 1 Timothy 4:12

For Him and Him only,
Vanessa

Vanessa's Week-Random Post

2010-04-25T17:01:00.003-05:00

I feel quite horrible to be honest. I have not put a new post up about my series! That's the issue with doing a series, it takes forever to finish them! I have been gone all week. I was at a wonderful friend's house; she just had her sixth baby, and I was there helping her with the other children, and of course holding the new precious addition! It was such a wonderful experience, to be around another family, besides my own, for one week, and to learn their ways. I was basically treated as their own family member. ;-) It was a great time; and yet busy. However, it was my chance to entirely take responsibility of cooking, cleaning, and even doing school with the older ones. I was also away from any sort of media for one week, because this family chose to not have any Internet in their home. Did I have a problem with that? No. It was great as a matter of fact. In any of my spare moments (rarely), I would open my Bible and read a particular passage. Being away from it all was very nice actually, quite relaxing. I also enjoyed the many conversations I had with my friend (the mom), and the talks and all sort which we would have. It was great. Anyways, my week was packed, and sadly, I forgot to being a camera. :( Yes, I know, all of you photographers, probably think I am crazy, because the camera is the only thing you would never forget, however, I am not a photographer, so, I'm entitled to forget! ;D Please, bare with me some more, as I go through this crazy and busy time in my life. I know, I really should continue with my serious, although, as of now, I really cannot find a moment. I am also preparing for my upcoming graduation, trying to get the pictures/invitations done! Thus just a tiny update from this busy blogger!

God bless,
Vanessa

A Few Notes

2010-04-17T09:55:00.002-05:00

I went over my past post, and noticed a few things which I left out on accident. I forgot to mention perhaps one of the greatest things; I mentioned it somewhat, nevertheless, not boldly and clearly enough, and thus this post is just a side-note to the past few posts which I have done. I was discussing how we need to be pure and blameless, and how to also fight and combat those thoughts which come on about a certain guy/girl. However, what I did leave out was that we cannot constantly think of this guy/girl and if we block those thoughts off think that's it alright. We need to face them, and share our feelings with our parents about these kind of feelings. Not hiding and covering them up and trying to come across that 'everything' is fine, when it's not. We are to involve our parents in such times, sharing our hearts with them and letting them know that there is a certain area in our life that needs prayer. Girls, share with you father the issues that arise, and yes that's very hard, and perhaps it's easier for you to share with you mother, fine, I'm pretty sure she'll share with your dad! ;) Our fathers know all about guys, and thus they are the greatest advice. And for guys, look at your mothers, treat them with love and respect, that's how a girl wants to be respected and treated. Thus, this is my point, INVOLVE YOUR PARENTS, and not forsaking their authority and wisdom. To stick close to them and God's counsel. We cannot discern what is right and wrong, therefore, it is important to give our feelings to those in authority and over us, we are too young and immature to know what is the right thought and what isn't. We are humans, we cannot be good without Christ, and Christ has set our parents, grandparents, or guardians to be that wise authority and counsel. Ok, that was something which I left out, and just wanted to make clear that this cannot be left out when dealing with a crush, like, or a possible relationship. Our parents are the greatest helps with the Lord's wisdom and guidance!

God bless and keep you,
Vanessa

Where Have I Been?

2010-04-01T18:04:00.006-05:00

Where have I been? I looked at my past post and noticed that it said, "February 28th!" And today is April 1st! It has been a busy past month...March Madness! :) I have had many thoughts of posting and continuing with my series, however, the time doesn't slow down for me. I feel like I need 48 hours, instead of 24 in a day! ;-) So, this is a very random post, just telling y'all that I'm still around and alive...haven't forgot about my blog and I am hoping to get a post up very, very soon! Please bare with me good people! I have been busy with work, school, church, music, household duties, being a daughter/sister/friend, and etc., etc., etc.! May you all be blessed this weekend as you reflect upon the resurrection of our dear Jesus!

Discovering God's Plan for the Opposite Gender-Purity (Part 2)

2010-02-28T21:08:00.002-06:00

It's a mere wonder why so many are curious about the fact of relationships and the opposite gender. I too have thought about this for a long time and came to the exact conclusion that many want the answer because they want to know what is fine and what isn't and how to succeed in life. There are many questions without answers, however, there is a promise which remains and it just takes time to rely upon God for Him to open the doors and our hearts. I have thought long and considered how I should approach this post and how I can bring the message and point across without being too open about certain issues. So, in this post I will discuss the factors of what to do if I am interested in him/her and what if I he/she is interested in me? These are quite tough to touch, nevertheless, by the grace and help of God, I will bring this post across clearly and perhaps it will touch one of you!

*To begin with, I'd like to mention a few things. Remember, at all times the words spoken here are my convictions, and I'm NOT GOD, and am just one of those people who like to speak the truth, but will not try to imprint it within your mind! Anyways, hopefully that was understood, shall we approach the most common struggles for the opposite sex?!*

Alright, many of you may battle against this topic, and may even say it over and over within your mind, not really knowing how to deal and conquer the temptation of the mind. One of the most common questions is, "What am I to do if I'm interested in him/her?" That is a very difficult question and a subject to cover which is really tricky as well. It is the point where we have to realize that unless God doesn't move and doesn't bring this particular guy/girl in my life, it won't happen. It is the practical message to many, whereas to others they may view it differently. Have you ever thought of the fact that many of us get ahead of God's actual plan? I was in a situation a few months ago, and I actually wanted to shoot the gun before God would, I was getting frustrated and just wanted to go ahead of the ballgame and see what would be the result. Well, as I was making up my mind to go first before God's command, I suddenly got struck in the head wasn't able of doing so because the situation changed and I was avoided from ever doing so. As I look back, I am so thankful that God stopped me from doing what I wanted to do, because it could of resulted badly instead of perfectly. Many of us want to get ahead of God and take Him by the hand instead of the opposite. We believe that we have life all planned out and that He is just there for a protection and a few comments. That is completely off of the line. In order for us to clear find the right answer and future for these touch and critical questions, we need to involve God. So, you may wonder, "I met this really nice and godly guy/girl, and I just have to get his/her number or email because I want to learn more about him/her!" Ever crossed your mind? Keep this in mind, The only way that we can have a God-centered and romantic marriage is if we allow God to take the pen and write out each and every step. The way is often heart wrenching and hurtful, nevertheless, the end reward my friends is so perfect and precious. We are to write a love song with our life, right now and just give it to God. Okay, lets say you are in thoughts and are just mesmerized about some particular guy/girl and really want to know them better, what are you to do; what is appropriate and what would be inappropriate?

Give it to God

Guard your thought life

Don't act differently around him/her

So, first of all, being attracted to a guy or girl isn't wrong, it's the attraction itself. If you simple allow the attraction to take control of your life and turn into an "idol" then that is dangerous and it is causing your initial focus and being to drift away from the real purpose, Christ. If that attraction is causing feelings of all sort of sinful things, then it is wrong, it is also developing heartache for your future spouse. If you are constantly consumed with this person and have taken your actions and decorum away from Jesus, then that is the level of imbalance. Nevertheless, if there is an attraction towards someone, and if you handle it and take it from the belt right away and know how to control it and keep it under the belt then it doesn't have to be labeled as inappropriate. Being set-apart and pure is the right thing, still keeping the Lord as the ultimate lover. Thus, the three points above are some of the best things to do if you feel that strong and lustful attraction creep on.

Give it to God: We may be deeply attracted to his/her looks, character, heart, motives, and role, nevertheless, if this is not the one God has for you, I'm sorry it will not happen, unless you do it out of your own power. Do NOT allow your emotions to get a toll on you, keep it under that belt. Remember that picture. Take those feelings and surrender them afresh to the love and will of God. He is the only one who can discern your true feelings and love for one.

Guard your thought life: Did you say, "Ah, the hardest one?!" It's alright, this is one of the hardest things, even harder for girls. It is so tempting to let those thoughts and feeling take a hold of you and capture you. Even if this certain person is everything you desire, those thoughts have no right to be there if it isn't a serious relationship. We are to take every thought captive. There is nothing wrong to notice his/her good and godly motives, but to constantly dwell upon those thoughts and wonder and imagine...yeah, that become destructive for the heart and for the respect of our future spouse. Picture this, if your future spouse were able of creeping within your mind, would he/she be very pleased? Ask God to enable your thoughts and emotions on Jesus Christ-not on another guy/girl. Start praying when those thoughts arise. Memorize Scripture and meditate on it. If you allow your emotions to take you, an error will arise down the road, I don't necessarily advice to pray for that guy/girl when you are thinking of him/her, just because the prayer may become obsessed about him/her, therefore, it is best to pray for another person. Put the message on your forehead that you will not be tempted to allow the thoughts to capture you're true purpose and goal of purity.

Don't act differently around him/her: This can be tricky and tough as well, since we want to get their attention, right? If you attempt to get out of your way just to impress him/her then your actions are definitely speaking louder than your words and your attraction can quickly morph into manipulation. It is that easy! Keep this in check. "Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart." (Psalm 37:4) As I mentioned before, taking matters into your own hands, just to get his/her look will only bring destruction. No matter how strong those desires and feelings are, there is no reason to let them get ahead of you. Give God the pen, and He will be more than pleased to script and be the Author of your love life. He is very interested, don't think otherwise. Ask for peace and not for higher emotions. We may experience butterflies and bumblebees in our stomach, rid those off, easier said than done, but yield it to God and don't listen to your conscience and feelings, they often lead you off the right path. Remember, man doesn't know any good without God!

Next, what can or do I do if there is a girl/guy attracted or interested in me? So, this may be a tricky one, and I have also been bombarded with this question many times from girls and even from a guy once or twice. Remember to always guard your heart and emotions and to not let yourself get ahead. We are to pray in such situations and are to keep God as the center of our life, married or not married. This is very important for girls, do not share your heart with a guy. It also qualifies for guys, but it is a lot easier for a girl to randomly share her problems and feelings. We are to keep it shielded and the greatest gift is to allow the man to open it with a key given to him by our father. Selecting godly teammates is the absolute goal and purpose. We are far to young to make wise decisions, and that is why we need God to foresee all situations and we are to also include our parents or guardians. Ignoring our parents in such circumstances is the biggest mistake you could make. They know how and what is right for you, even when it often seems the opposite. Take a step back and ask for God's wisdom in every way. We need to move forward in a relationship possible courtship with the perfect peace of God, knowing that we are obeying our parent's and the will of God. Do not rush a situation, even if you're 30, you make think, "Time is running out!" In God's eyes, the time is never running out for His will, He planned it perfectly and will place everything in an ordained and orderly way. He is the one putting the relationship together, building the teammates. Pray, get godly counsel and righteous counsel. Also keep in mind that the guy or girl needs to be a strong Christian, not doubting his or her salvation, but having Christ also at the center of their life and relationship. God will not let you hang, he knows that there is someone interested in you, and if you happen to be attracted to him/her He is the One who truly meets and fulfills the desires of your heart! Just wait, it's a hard a painful wait at times, often with tears, nevertheless, in a few years, we can look back and see that result of waiting as a blessing, either being married to the man/woman of God's will, or being single for His special and perfect plan. I will discuss that more in the upcoming posts.

So, in conclusion to all of this, I just want you to keep it posted within your mind that you are to run to the Prince of Peace and Lover of your soul. Draw unto Him, and He will clearly show you the way for all circumstances. "Draw nigh unto God and He will draw nigh unto you." (James 4:8) It can be a deary and dry wait, or it could be a wait of joy and peace, knowing that the burden is in the Maker's hands. When He is in His rightful place, every confusion and bewildering thing in your life will finally begin to make sense. Keep in mind, He cares more about this area of your life than you even do! It's your love life, and He will make it the most beautiful story, if you just let Him!

In His Will,
Vanessa

*Some of the ideas and information came from the books, "When God Writes Your Love Story", and "Answering the Guy Questions" both from Eric and Leslie Ludy.*

Two Years Old!

2010-02-18T17:35:00.003-06:00

Well, this is a random post, and I'm kinda getting tired of writing the next part of the series (it's , coming....soon!) Anyways, today is Maiden of Purity's second birthday! Yep, it's been already two years since I started this blog. Sometimes it feels like yesterday, whereas other days it feels like forever! It has been a good two years, I grew a lot spiritually and my writing style has really changed. I think I have found my true purpose in writing now. So, I just like to remember that two years ago today I started my blog, and it is amazing how many people I have *met*. There are a few bloggers that I have met in person, and then a few that I converse with and have not met-yet. Alright, so one birthday wish Maiden of Purity has (me too) is to find out how many people/bloggers actually visit. So, if y'all wouldn't mind leaving a short comment just so that I can estimate a random number! :)

God bless!
Vanessa

BTW, I am working on my post as I said, it will just be a few more weeks (perhaps)!? I am very busy at this moment and thus need to find the moment to sit down and finish it. Thanks for your patience, I'm pretty sure y'all understand! ;-)

The Problem with Society and the Opposite Gender-Purity (Part One)

2010-01-22T18:15:00.001-06:00

A problem with our society is that we do not know how to interact with others. The most troubling aspect of this problem is that we act like butterflies, flirting to another guy or girl when we have 'tried' and 'checked' others out. The average teenager, is immature, absolutely confused, and when we place these factors into a setting where the opposite sex is, then naturally, chaos and disturbance will arise. It is no wonder why so many girls are pregnant these days, or why young boys are becoming fathers, or are addicted to pornography. Yes, our world is so brainwashed, thinking that just because you have entered the 'teen' years that you need a boyfriend or a girlfriend, as well as that your interaction with the opposite sex has to be more 'mature' than when we were in preschool. It is at this point, perhaps around 13 that our peers begin pressuring us to be more active around the opposite sex and open up around them, talk on the phone for a long time, email, facebook, etc., and then they get even more bold and go on dates and all the sort. When someone tells me that they just went on a date, I don't even have to think twice, my blood is boiling, I'm annoyed, and have to work on myself to not rage in anger! It almost seems as if a guy or girl finishes their middle school years and enters high school and the first day they are already standing at a door of troubles. Oftentimes a girl's reaction toward a guy in high school is throwing herself at him in ways such as on his shoulders, piggyback rides, and all the sort. Now, a guy's action toward a girl is perhaps poking her stomach, tickling her, etc. So, it is not a wonder why there is so much confusion and chaos displayed in a high school, or is it? We're talking about hundreds of guys and girls ages 14-18 in one building, around each other for 8 hours a day! Now, I'm not saying that it's wrong to be around the opposite sex, but being alone around them is where I'm getting at. Girls who are 13 are appearing to be 17, and this qualifies for a guy as well, all because they follow the trend of their peers, the pop stars, actors/actresses, and they are blinded in the foolishness and chaotic mess. Sexual intimacy is done at young ages, believing that they are in desperate and deep love, but only finding themselves disgusted the next evening, and thus they go on to the next girl/guy. Ok, this next part may be a little open, however, I'm going to say it.

Girls, because of your actions, decorum, dress, and conduct, guys are falling over you. They basically see you as a sex object and nothing else. Wanting you for his desires and pleasure. He may mess around with you, use you up sexually, and then throw you away after he's done and fulfilled his sexual desires. Yes, it's the truth, and so many don't want to hear it because it hurts. And guys, I pity you, the way these girls are coating themselves these days is disgusting, and it may be very hard for you to block off those images and control those sexual desires, although, by the grace of God, you can rid it off, and you can become a set-apart guy. This means that you're completely, absolutely, different from all of the hormone, out of whack, sex-crazed guy! I may have just spoken out of my authority, I'm sorry if I have, however, speaking of such things is what I desire, because there is such a need to hear the truth about purity.

Many fight and war against the issues about their actions and conduct toward the opposite sex. I have had many girls come up to me, practically crying in agony and saying, "How can I act around him without coming across as interested, because I'm not!" Yes, this is a problem with our society. Many times people think just because we're talking to him or her that we have a certain 'thing' going on. If you intend to do all things blamelessly, without impurity, then block off those comments. BUT, if you achieve purposefully to get his/her attention, gaze, touch, then you need to reevaluate your heart and think if this is correct in the sight of God. Do you honestly desire to be sexually active, is this a reason why you are such a flirt? It's such a mess, girls believing that they have to dress or act this way just to get his attention, and guys thinking that they have to act cool and macho just to get his girl to look and daze upon him! I will share from my side now.
When I am around guys, I don't purposefully attempt to be a flirt, joke around, or try to be the center of attention. Yes, I DO love to joke around, however, keeping a complete balance to keep things under control. If things get out of control, then others may get the impression that she (me) is all for the attention and affection. It is a daily struggle for many, but talking to God is the greatest thing.

Why does our society face such challenges when around the opposite sex? Why can't we just all act normal? Because, we have this hormone inside of us that says, "Oh wow, he's so cute, or she's so hot!" And when we cannot keep that under the belt, that's when relationships and friendships get our of hand. The world teaches its teens to be in the latest trends, watch the latest movies, magazines, and even have a girl/boyfriend just to be cool. Have sexual intimacy just to say you did it before 18, and make sure that you go every weekend on a date and if it begins to get boring, dump your girl/boyfriend, there are plenty more in this world! Yes, this is true, it's just so sad that so many, Christians as a matter of fact are fogged and cannot see the sin. I have talked with many girls who claimed to be Christians, went to church, etc., and yet wanted a boyfriend badly, wanted to waste their first kiss, and didn't even know what courtship was! One girl said, "Oh, courtship, isn't that the old style, where you stay reserved and practically talk to the guy with a wall in between?" No, it does NOT have to be like that. We can engage ourselves in a pure manner and converse with the other gender, we don't have to be reserved completely, nor nervous or thinking just because we said two words that it was a sin! It is the way you act, the way you intend to come across. Your actions speak louder than words, and yes I stole that from the Bible!

Many people have told me that I sound just like an author, Leslie Ludy, because she is so open. And I'm sorry if I came across as to blunt in this post, I just can't stop myself from not opening the eyes of the young adults. Sexual immorality is an abomination to God, he abhors it. He doesn't just not like it, he HATES it! I have conversed with a young man before, and when I do so, I am always on target, making sure that I have not crossed the line, and have not talked about nonsense such as, whatcha doing, etc. Don't talk about filthy subjects, things which dishonor God and topics which would shock your parents. Converse in a Christ-like manner, making a statement that you don't have to have a girl/boyfriend, and you can talk with the opposite sex in a group of others. Now, personally, I advise young ladies, or gentlemen, to not be alone in a conversation. Things could go a tad out of hand, and you will never forgive yourself, just as a side note. Ladies, if you haven't noticed, guys these days are declining, what I mean by this is that they are becoming weaker and mocked at because so many say that they don't have a back bone and don't know how to be a leader. It is up to you to encourage them in all purity, to make them regain that masculinity and the divine purpose God has for them, such as being a strong leader. Guys, encourage and thank your godly friends who are young ladies for dressing differently and living their life with all purity, don't just think of it as normal, thank them for it. We all need each other, we need to stand together to set the Christian role and not be ashamed of it. Also, girls do not be the initiator of a conversation for relationship. Do not go up to the guy alone and personally, even when you want to tell him something very important which is random to you, it brings a message across that you are stronger in character and are undermining his authority. Allow him to be the one to lead on in a relationship and let him be the one who initiates it; and guys treat a young lady with respect, not like a piece of garbage just available for sexual desires. She is far more worth, and it takes a time to win her heart, guard your heart, each one of you! Please, everyone do not misunderstand me that I'm saying you have to completely away from the opposite gender, this is not what I'm saying, just be on caution and use the biblical principles.

Lift up your hands, look up, cry up, and He is right there. God is just waiting for you to break down, give Him the pen, and He will write your love story. He can write the most beautiful pages and poems about you. Even if you think you will never get married, and you believe that you have to help God, please don't, do not get in His way, He has something so great for you. More of this will be discussed in the upcoming posts, as I will hit singleness, and the greatest question, "What if I don't get married?" Well, may God bless you as you continue to strive for a godly character and life!

"Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life." Proverbs 4:23

His Servant,

Vanessa

Adressing Purity: Introduction

2010-01-10T18:28:00.007-06:00

Purity, is this a topic which strikes many of you? I have heard from many young people about their struggles and ongoing tests about this area in life. It is as if it is something always occurring daily perhaps. I have been confronted with questions from young girls, asking me, some almost begging me for answers to just have a clear and pure mind. The thought of that comes upon me as almost heart breaking, because so young are these girls and they already are having to go through such struggles and pains of immoral and sinful thoughts. Recently, I have been asked this question and this certain question rises among many of the girls that I converse with. It is such a question which is bewildering, confusing, dazzling, and plain out confusing. Yes, this post, as I am writing it will be about purity once again, because there is such a need of this talk. So many young teenagers battle with this, Christian or not. It is something that many do not know how to handle and deal. Thus, the question which is brought up is, "How do I interact with the opposite sex?" That is perhaps the biggest and most strongest struggle many have. I speak for myself. Many times I ask my own mind, "Is this gesture or behavior appropriate, or am I going a tad too far?" I am saddened by our culture and the way society conducts itself. There are millions of young teenagers who do not know a thing about purity. They just take the step, out of their box and do the wrong thing. Having physical intimacy at such a young age. They do not know how to converse and interact with others, they believe they do, however, when it comes down to the nitty gritty, they don't. They are just a whole bunch of hormone-troubled-confused-teenagers! This may sound bold, harsh, and even weird. Yes, I am a bold and outspoken person, and just as one of my friends mentioned the other day, in this world Vanessa, you're going to have to stand up and be different if you want the truth to be spread. So, lets battle this question and take it down; how do I interact with the opposite sex, what is too much and what is too little?

Well, to begin with, whatever you're doing is that appropriate in the eyes of God? Second, when we say, 'what is too much' then basically we are already stepping over the boundaries and not following the biblical principles. What does God say about the opposite sex, and how are we to deal with them, because they are there. Almost everywhere you go, there is either a guy or a girl, and maybe they're some really interesting guys and girls, perhaps good looking, and breath taking. Although, what is God saying about this? "Flee from youthful lusts, and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, with those who call on the Lord with a pure heart."(2 Tim. 2:22) Ah, it says it right there, right in Timothy, FLEE, God commands us to not just back off and touch it lightly, but rather to FLEE! Wow, that is powerful! What are we to flee from? Youthful lusts, such things as pornography and sexuality. If you are weak to such things, then by all means do not surround yourselves with such temptations. I know that some guys are feeble and not strong at all when it comes to filthy images, and sexuality, then the best way to stop those emotions and feelings is to walk away and not return to that way and path of living. Ok, so I have drifted a little bit from the main purpose of this post, but those were some things which I had to address. Alright, conversing with the opposite sex, that's where I left off.

I know that some Christians are completely against this and command and practically dictate their children to not involve themselves with the opposite gender and to be completely biased towards them. Ok, as for myself, I cannot imagine that. I do know that it is godly to interact with the opposite sex with caution and of course other guidelines. We are not to through ourselves at them, nor purposefully want to be in their presence, or perhaps even this, email or anything else to get their attention. It is very hard not to do this. And I have admit that one of my hardest things is not to come across as too friendly and flattering. So, how are we to act and talk with the opposite gender? You may think now or even ask yourself, "Am I to be a hermit and totally isolate myself?" No, not at all, BUT, don't go the total opposite and cling to the opposite sex. Instead, act with all purity and godliness. Ask God how you are to act around a guy or girl. What is it that He qualifies and justifies. I know that it is very hard, and for some of us, it isn't at all. I have talked with both guys and girls about this, and actually, if I average it all out, the girls have the hardest struggle with this because they want to be so kind and it is very easy for a girl to become emotionally attached and attracted and also as being a girl we desire to have a prince charming and by getting to know a guy we try to find out if he is interested in us. As for guy, this is a slight difference as I had the opportunity to talk to a few guys about this. Yes, they do desire to marry, however, they do not get easily attached, but rather they have the tendency to talk about girls and also imagine however, not so seriously be ready for something major. A girl can think of her future with someone she may like in less than 5 seconds if not careful. As for a guy, this is a little bit different. He often sees a girl in a different perspective, more drawn to the girl because of her beauty. Both ways are wrong, imagining our future with someone just because he may be cute, or drawn to a girl just because of her beauty! Absurd. Believe me, I used to be like that; thinking just because he looks 'all fine' he must be fine. Nevertheless, over the years of my youth, God has changed my thinking, and I am by all means not attracted to just a simple guy, he has to be a warrior poet, one who can capture my heart with his motives and actions, not just because he may appeal to be awesome, we're talking about a person who you live with for life! Ok, so how do we treat each other in everyday life? How are we to build a healthy guy/girl friendship? What kind of conversations are honoring? Is it true that my decorum can be shown in my body language? What should I do when I'm attracted to a guy or girl? What about the fear of being single for life? And how to deal with the opposite sex whether in conversations, actions, or motives. All of this will be discussed in the weeks to come. God is the one who planted within us love and romance, so who is better than Him to turn to counsel? Alright, I just decided that I will continue with this and it will become a series.There are so many topics that I wish to touch, and it would get all to long to do it in this post. So, my fellow friends, till next time and may God bless you in the weeks to come, stay tuned!

In His honor,

Vanessa

My Journey, His Calling!

2009-12-26T14:21:00.004-06:00

*Ahem*, I may start this post as *ahem* meaning the *ahem* comes from you because it has been so very long since I have had a meaningful post up! So, this is the ONLY moment where you as the reader can be a tiny bit upset and do the *ahem* thingy, reminding me that I should blog more often! Well, as I have said, this has been the longest break that I have ever taken from my blog, to be honest, it was probably the best decision I made. You see, during these weeks, yes I have posted random posts, although, a post where I really dig into something was probably dated back in September! God has been showing me, teaching me, reproving me, chiseling me, and growing me these past months. I have learned to completely surrender to God and die to myself. Meaning, I am nothing, and without the will and hand of God, I will never be something. It may sound as if I am very confusing, nevertheless, give me a chance to explain and then perhaps you will nod your head saying, "Aha, I understand!"
As we get older, it seems as if life gets only harder. There are times where I am often dazzled and confused with so many things. I was even questioning God about many areas within my life, certain circumstances, and other queer situations. As you know, I even had my doubts and thoughts of discontinuing my blog. To my surprise, I received loving comments from my followers and others who encouraged me. I appreciated each one of them and really didn't know how to thank them. There are two followers on my blog and they really encouraged me with their words, I was actually touched and in that moment I heard God. He was trying to get to me all this time, however, I was to preoccupied that I didn't take the chance to just wait and listen. In the moments when we just give up, that is when God can work. I have given up all of my wants, dreams, and desires, I also have stopped understanding the will of God and just follow. It is so hard because I want what I want, nonetheless, because I know that He works when we are broken, I am willing to do that. God has taught me to rely upon Him for all situations. I have had trouble in the past seeing that, and the consequence caught me to pay for the price. I'm pretty sure many of you are curious about your future. For me, that is one of the hardest things to give up, well I won't lie, the hardest! I want to know what is in store for me, but as of late, I have handed the pen over to God to be the Author of my life. Sometimes it is hard to pray because God feels so far away, nevertheless, there is hope in the horizon, and as I always say, there is a light at the end of this tunnel. Whatever hardship I'm going through I may not see the end, but I know that God never gives me something unbearable to handle. I stand amazed in the presence of my Lord, because I know that what He desires of me is something that I cannot fully comprehend at this time, and Him just holding it back from me is not selfish, however, a lesson of pure patience. Boy, I'm a very impatient person, and this is why God is teaching me, showing me, correcting me, and humbling me, because I need an extra dose of patience.
Dreams, we all have those sensations, those desires. I have probably the most dreams anyone could have, and it is important to have plans, BUT God has showed me something more important over the months, "Vanessa, my call is going to be your journey!" Yeah, pretty harsh and hard, nevertheless, it is His desire and love that I give up my selfish wants and hop on His back and follow. My prayers were often crowded with wrong things, things which I wanted, and not what God wanted. It wasn't until one morning, that the Lord awoke me, and literally I heard Him say, "You're mine, you're going to have to listen to me now!" I opened up my prayer journal and to my surprise a few of the prayers which I had in there that were probably too focused on the things of my heart, were gone. Now, that may sound ridiculous to you, but if you know God, then you know exactly what I mean...they were GONE! I knew that it was no longer about me, no longer about Vanessa, the girl who wanted things in order, but about God.
I could go on and on because talking about this change within my heart is something so exciting. Yes, I still fail in many areas, and those areas need to be turned because my heart needs to be completely God's, and if I'm sinning in some part then I'm holding onto something else. So, all of this is a brief explanation of my absence, and of the teachings which God has done through me. The biggest lesson which I have learned is that whatever I want may not be of God, thus I am am a meek child before the great Creator; all what He desires of me is what He will get. I look forward, with much anticipation for His plans, because they will be far better than mine. I am not my own, and my journey on this earth is not mine either. Therefore, this quote has been such an encouragement as well as an eyeopener, "My journey is His calling!"

My Family...

2009-12-21T14:02:00.003-06:00

Well, I promised to y'all that I'd post a picture of my family. This is our Christmas picture, of course, it looks better, more clear, when it is printed out, although, that is kinda impossible to do, because I don't even know half of y'all! :) Plus, in a few days, perhaps before Christmas, I will post a post up about the moments I had throughout the weeks I was gone. God taught me a lot, and the other day, a good friend of mine mentioned how I should briefly share what the Lord has been doing and teaching me. I would love to go in ever detail, nevertheless, it would be very long. Also, I appreciate each one of your comments on each post, and I know that there are many of you who view and do not comment, I still thank you! More next time!

Oh, That's How She Looks Like!

2009-12-11T22:51:00.010-06:00

So, I bet many of you have wondered for some time how this private blogger looks like! Well, I haven't been on much lately, and never did post pictures, until the other day when the idea popped into my mind to do so! Thus, that picture on the side is...this blogger! Yep, that happens to be me right there. I'll be posting a picture next week of my entire family. I would do it sooner, but it is our Christmas picture and I will be sending it out to others who follow and view my blog and I want them to see it before it gets on my blog! For those waiting, just have patience, and know that the girl who writes all of these posts, no longer remains mysterious!

What Shall I Do?

2009-11-21T12:52:00.000-06:00

I have been away for a few weeks, actually more than a few, more like many. I have been in many thoughts and sensations these past weeks, dazzled with many emotions and feelings, and yet always had the thought of, what is the exact mission and purpose of my blog. I have even considered discontinuing my blog, however I have had a friend and my brother state otherwise. They both told me to continue this ministry and to pursue what God is telling me to do. I have developed a sense of confusion and to be honest with all of you, a complete blank mind on what to do. When I first began this blog, my initial intent was to encourage young girls with emotional, physical, and mental purity, and to be a strong and powerful light for Christ. As months went on, new bloggers approached my blog, new comments were seen, and the vision and purpose which I had gradually shifted to something else. That 'something else' is a thing that I do not even know. I have prayed to God for weeks, just wanting to know my plan and purpose here in life, as well as for my blog. I was very much into my blog months ago, and suddenly, my life has taken shifts, turns, and changes. Situations which I cannot control, and some which I have all the power to handle. What a comfort it is although to just run into the hands of God, crying out all of the tears and hurts, just knowing the there is an ultimate peace and love in the God of salvation. My friends, I highly appreciate your dedication to this blog, even though I have been gone. The comments which I have received are so encouraging, so uplifting, and so refreshing. My words can never thank you enough, some of you I do not even know, but I feel as if I have known you long because the blood of Jesus Christ brings us close together. Yet again, I have turned from the exact meaning of this post. I still do not know what my purpose is for this blog. I do not even know if I am touching lives with this site, perhaps it is something that I want, and God is telling me otherwise. Perhaps you can sense confusion between the words? I know that I do not have to carry the weight of who I am, because God has His all forgiving love on me. At times I feel alone, just wanting to be with God, because that is who I am. I know that I am a treasure in the arms of Christ, and if He wants me to continue my ministry on this blog, then so be it, nevertheless, if I feel a sense of the opposite, then I will choose to follow that call and leading. As I have said before, this is all a thought; God is my source, my hope, and through my struggles He will be there, not letting me go through it alone. Even when I feel like it at times. I call and He hears me, I feel empty, but I'm holding on, because He's with me. Even though I'm walking through the valley of the shadow, His love will cover me!

God Bless,
Vanessa

Long Time...

2009-10-10T16:01:00.004-05:00

Wow, I know it's been a very long time since I have posted anything on my blog, however, my life has gone through a few twists and turns here and there! So many new situations and circumstances have come up these past few weeks! Through all of this going on in my life, I have neglected a few things, however, as I come to the conclusion of it, I find that I have not neglected my blog and other things instead my priorities have shifted majorly. Thus, I will not be posting on my blog for awhile, due to some confusion within my life, something I cannot share with y'all, but must be kept personal, it's a time where God is growing and changing His child, reproving me and molding me to make me more like Him. I'm being tested in many areas spiritually, and mentally I am often dazed and fogged about many things. Thanks for your understanding!

Vanessa

Ah, this Question...

2009-09-18T22:02:00.003-05:00

I have been thinking about a post these past few weeks, and as I was doing my daily duties a few days ago, this popped to my mind! I will give this question to anyone willing to answer and participate in a discussion perhaps. I have been having this question awake within my mind for some time already, and finally decided to ask what y'all think about it. I know that many people think differently on this topic, nevertheless, that is not the point, I'm just curious with what you think, and what is Biblical. Thus, for the actual question, "Once saved always saved?" What is your exact opinion and voice on this? I have an opinion, and know other Christians who think otherwise. Without further explanation, be free to voice your thoughts on this. It doesn't have to be directed to me, however, to everyone! I know many that are confused with this, because it is often heard differently when in the gather of believers, or in a congregation of a church.

While You're Waiting...

2009-09-01T09:26:00.004-05:00

Lately, since I have been away from the blogging world, I have come to thought of many new posts, many which I should share, and yet a few which I cannot possibly put in words. My mind often comes to a brake and all the thousands of thoughts vanish away for one second, oh how lovely that is, and then suddenly, on point 2 seconds, they return. I have come to a broad conclusion, that we all struggle with thoughts. Some of us more than others. It may be the thought of, "Oh, so much to do!" or perhaps something more common such as, "I wonder where, who, and when, my future spouse is?" I talked to a young lady the other day and she mentioned something like this, "Vanessa, I often find myself thinking of someone I don't even know...I many times think if there will even be a husband for me." The sad thing is, many of us who are single can think upon thoughts like this way too much, and shockingly, before we even realize it, it can become an idol in our thoughts, worrying who is he/she, when is he/she coming, do I already know who he/she is? I am speaking on my behalf, and this is very difficult. I often would like to know myself who he is, nevertheless, I have read an article a few weeks back which stated, "If we are so in love with God, the feeling of wanting to know our future spouse which being single will diminish more and more." Of course, more or likely, we all have desires to be married, those desires are normal because God did create this inner love within us for the opposite sex. This does vary between each of us, and I know from myself, and many others that they have the desire and wanting to get married some day. Although, while waiting for this person, and often dreaming of what the future will be like (girls, this is for you), we need to be very cautious of not taking too quick of a step. Many times we may catch ourselves in thinking of someone perhaps who have captured our eyes, one who may seem like he/she fits all of our qualities which we want in a spouse, someone who we may dream of living with? Yes, it is often exciting, these thoughts, these feelings, nevertheless, please be careful into what your mind tricks you with. Even if you have never had these thoughts or feelings, control your emotions and actions. I spoke with a young lady this past week, "Vanessa, if only I would know who my future husband is, I wouldn't be such a flirt!" Why, cause yourself to be flirty and risky just because you think your future spouse isn't looking. Nevertheless, there is one always looking, and I believe you can answer that yourself...that very one, is Christ Jesus, watching your every step, your every gaze, your every action, your every word, your everything!
I often stare into the air, gazing, or just wondering what the next five years bring, although, this can cause us to become depressed, or even more lonely. Just think, do you possibly believe at this very moment that you can mother children? Or, could you provide for your family? It is difficult to stay pure, many times I feel like riding on a roller coaster, each and every day is different. I had once a young man tell me, "Vanessa, aren't girl's emotions different day by day?" So very true. Our hearts just need to be guarded, and held tight, safe and secure. You do not want to jump into a relationship too quickly, and thus find yourself deeply in love, however, finding yourself later on in life in a mess because many times when two young people are in love, they do not see the mistakes, this is dangerous! You may be 18 and married, or 28 and still walking around single. Whatever age you are, you have your complete purpose in this world, following God and knowing that He has complete charge of your single years, your courtship days, your engagement moments, and your married life. Just keep in mind to not dream upon this man or woman. Sometimes we may think that we already know him/her, and at other times, it is as if not. I speak of that on my behalf, feeling those very words, and often wanting to believe them, nonetheless, I am at the same moment glad that I do not know who he is because, God has a purpose and a will in my life. He has that exact plan for you as well, because He wants your heart, and patience is being learned. Yes, it is important to have a goal for your life, to know what you want to do etc., just play it on the safe side, not going total overboard.
As I sit here today, at the age of 17, my thoughts are often crowding my mind, forming a cloud, and if I allow that cloud to captivate my mind, I do not feel free, nevertheless, burdened. I will not carry the role of courtship in my own hands, God needs to take my future, and I pray that you allow Him to do the same with you. Yes, I do many times imagine what life will be like, and I want my husband to cover me in the Word of God, and to protect me, to guide me and our future family, and so much more. In addition, we are all worry way too much, and our worry and anxiety will often cause us to become lonely and far more. Whoever, your future spouse is, I pray that we will be strong when temptation arises, if you are one of those who waste your single years jumping from guy/girl to guy/girl, boldly and yet the truth, you are causing yourself much hardship. Just because you are young and single, you may believe that flirting with the opposite sex is far normal, think twice. You can't even wait for that special person, you are looking for other relationships, something to satisfy you at this moment. The way you act now, it can possibly affect your future. It is very hard to stay pure, for some physically, and others mentally. Nevertheless, ground yourself in the Word of God, find encouraging words there, seek the counsel of your parents or perhaps your guardian/grandparents, and know that you can do all things through Christ because He gives you strength. Even if you have messed up, and you have realized that you have, you are such an encourager to the ones who are trying to do that which is right the first time. You are to use your single years as a blessing, doing wise doings, serving your family and others, and seeking God day and night. It is so worth the wait, I know that it is hard, however, I long for my future spouse, and I know that when I meet him (Lord willing), I can say that I waited, and he has done the same for me! Our thoughts can cause us to turn bitter, or quite the opposite, to stay joyful because knowing that patience creates a great price!

The Faults of Teenagers...Be Different!

2009-08-20T09:13:00.007-05:00

Well, if you haven't noticed how our world is turning more and more worldly, allow myself to share a story that proves it more so!

A few weeks ago my oldest brother, youngest sister, and I were out together. We happened to be sitting next to each other, and the place where we were at, people have always seen Marc and I together, without parents. Nevertheless, a complete stranger came up to us and poised the question, "Is that your daughter?!" I looked at her with total shock and confusion and asked for her to repeat herself again. Thus she did, and because I was so taken back I shot out the words, "NO!" I thought that strong and powerful word, "NO!" would of cut her off, nonetheless, she went on with what she thought...into so much detail. Again she stated, "Oh, I thought you were in a relationship with this guy right here and y'all had this girl as your daughter!" I looked at my brother and was dumbfounded and said, "I'm sorry ma'am, however, these are my siblings." To think that Marc and I married...excuse me!? Here is where I'm going with this, I look far younger than my actual age, most people think of me as either 14 or 15, and my brother perhaps as 17 or 18, and thus this is what they thought. Do you get my point? People these days are beginning to assume that just because you have perhaps your younger sibling(s) with you that they are your children.
It is true that teenagers are becoming parents, instead of waiting patiently for their bride or groom they are letting themselves lose into the parenting world, and not getting married perhaps but continuing to have more children. We have so many teenage pregnancies, and many of these teenagers are not wanting to hold their mistake and take charge, that they believe they can easily get rid of this living being with an abortion! I have heard of young girls being pregnant at 13 or 14, and not only having one but three or four. Are you wanting to save yourself, or are you willing to give it all up with no care, just because you want the desire but have the choice to get rid of the baby? We need to think wisely before we make any mistake, and the topic I am discussing at this moment is very important. Teenagers are wanting a girlfriend or boyfriend and often that relationship gets deeper and deeper and then one morning they are shocked to find out that they will be parents! Many teenagers are not ready to parent a child which is very understandable because of the way they are growing up these days, and this is when they decide to use the quick and fast way to keep their life the same-abortion. However, will it really be the same? No, because how can you deal and live with yourself after you have had an abortion. Knowing that this child is life, a human being! I once heard of a story concerning a young lady and she stated that she had to confess because when she was in college she fell for temptation and her sinful desires caused her to conceive a baby and thus she was in no mood to raise this child and aborted it. Later on in life she found Jesus, and married and had many children of her own and could not live with herself because of what she had done many years before hence. She constantly thinks of this life, the life she threw away carelessly all because she wanted to live her youth. She says, "I would have one more child, another one to care and love for, another one for God's kingdom, how was I so immature and foolish?" It is but all too late. There has been over 40 million abortions since 1973!
Think before your actions. The story above about myself and my siblings is concerning this because the generation these days have the mindset that just because I'm a teenager it means the I have a boyfriend and that just because my sister happened to be with me she definitely must be my daughter. Make a statement with your life, a purpose and a reason. Do not waste your youth with boyfriends/girlfriends and breaking up and then restarting all over again. Make that strong promise and commitment to save yourself for that special person. We are all falling and each of us have sinned, nevertheless, break your temptations, your strongholds. If you struggle with the fact of wanting a boyfriend or girlfriend, and wanting to get deeper with this person, just think, "Will you want to spend the rest of your life with him/her?" Do you want the responsibility of caring for a child at the moment, out of wedlock? Wouldn't you rather have children with the man or woman or your desire and God's plan, once you're married? Allow these questions to ponder within your heart and if God is wanting to work within your life, let Him, don't hold back any fear or pain! We are not ready to father or mother a child in a risky relationship, one out of high school or college, wait until your wedding ceremony and the wedding bed. Let's make a statement for the whole world to see that we are different, and will not participate in the sinful and evil doings of this world. It is hard to often stay emotionally and physically pure, however, the reward thereafter is beautiful and amazing! Do not give your heart or body away, girls this means to dress modestly, because it is giving a guy sexual desires. And when a guy is just for your body he does not love you, because he can't respect your decision for staying pure. Give your heart to the Lord Jesus, because He will satisfy you with His love, it is more than enough. Be careful where your feet trod and if you have a weak back with guys or girls, stay away from trouble! Never ever be alone with the opposite sex, it's not worth it, the consequence is far greater, and it hurts! Imagine having to tell your wife or husband later on in life, "I'm sorry, however, I had another relationship before I knew you, and a child came out of that, although, I chose to abort that baby!" You can save yourself from this hardship, and from the agony of losing a child you once didn't want...with the love of Jesus and the discipline, if you give Him your heart! We live in a world of pressure and confusion, however, you need to stand strong, and not stand on sifted sand!

Anger...Bitterness...Hatred...Yelling...Cussing...IT'S WRATH!

2009-08-15T15:30:00.004-05:00

Well, my previous post was about action going on around my house, and yet this post will be the exact same! Something very different, totally out of the ordinary, and awful occurred this morning!

Alright, my youngest brother had a soccer game this morning and everything was going well, normal. They were losing by 2 points however, we were still cheering on. The ball went out on our side where my family was and one of the players from our team goes and gets it. He comes back and suddenly another boy from the other team just slightly kicks him in the lower part of the leg. The boy on our team got furious and with hatred and anger grabbed the player from the other team and gives him a punch in the eye! The sister from this boy who punched the other boy immediately jumped in the field, started cussing her mouth off and grabbed the other boy's t-shirt with hate and gave him the impression to get lost! With in less than a second, the other team's parents/family ran over and got into a Hugh fight with our team's parents/family. Through all of this, my head was shaking back and forth. My family and I were playing neutral and my dad, being the leader tried to calm everyone down. Things got quite out of hand, and yelling, cussing, and anger was all being spilled over this incident. My dad quietly walked away and called the police to come over and settle this matter because if left alone, it would of gotten worse. The girl who intervened within this fight was the main issue because she acted out of control and this is how everything arose. She is only 14 years of age and to hear a mouth like hers was disgusting! The police was there on the soccer field in less than 5 minutes and still, the police officer had to call back up. Once the other one got there everyone slowly began to calm down. Nevertheless, people were still yelling and accusing each other. One lady told my mom, "Oh, this is normal, it runs in the Hispanic blood line!" No excuse! Towards the end of this long and loud fight, the boy which got punched in the eye was crying all his tears out, due to shock and pain. The ambulance came on over and took a look at him and within seconds his eye was swelling. Everyone was fighting with everyone, and tried to get back at each other. My family and I once again, stood in shock! Nonetheless, my dad was one of the spokesmen because he saw most of the accident. Coming to the end of this disruption, my dad humbled himself in front of all these people and in the name of our whole team apologized, even though none of it was personally my family's fault. However, he asked for forgiveness to the family who's little boy got hurt, and even handed out his hand to shake hands and make things come to peace. Although, the father could not overcome his pride, anger, and bitterness, and did not in turn give his hand out. Things began to get loud once more because of this, and the police man to his shock of my dad doing this, told my dad, "Ok sir, that's enough!"After that, my dad went up to the boy who punched the other boy and his sister and kindly said, "I believe y'all should apologize to this boy for your behavior!" The Bible says, "Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God!" All of this was already shocking for me, but this ticked it off. They stared at my dad and said, "Why, it's not my issue nor fault!" I went up personally to the girl and said, "Look, this little boy is in pain for what your brother did, and is crying! Where is your heart, don't you feel sorry? Make things right!" Her reply was somewhat harsh and rude, "Why, it's not me, and what gives you any right to tell me what to do!" I had to give it up because the police got in between! All of this, over a children's soccer game!

Now, the most disturbing and upsetting thing about this was that young lady's temperament and her brother's anger. I was just in shock and could not believe how this girl was so violent with her words and so hateful. She began to get in between everything and cussed at the adults! I overheard her brother say to one of his teammates, "I did it because we were losing and I wanted to get back at them!" Foolish and immature! I am so saddened at how our society is becoming. How terrible how world is. Having a group of people fighting with each other and arguing with hate. How sad our Father in heaven must be. I am so proud of my dad, standing up and asking forgiveness in the name of our whole team. He was being the peacemaker and did not want anymore strive or bitterness. I feel sorry for the man who marries this girl, how disgusting the girls of our population are getting. Becoming so dogmatic, and fighting like cats! I pray for all of these lost souls. Having seen this and hearing all of the hurtful words, I know that Satan was right there in the midst of it all. Laughing and smiling because hateful language was being spilled all over. We need to be in control of our anger. This boy who punched the other boy is only 11 years old and has such a temperament. Just imagine when he is in his teens...what then? Possibly being one who causes a shooting? Our anger is raging and we are in control of it. We each have a button, something which irritates us, and when someone pushes that button we explode like a volcano and spill with anger! Our anger can hurt someone, and even worse, kill someone! All anger must be put away. Wrath is in the same classification as blasphemy and filthy language, and that was being displayed today. The only One Who has a right to be angry is God. Allowing anger to become wrath is putting ourselves in the place of God.
Irritability, impatience, raised voice, glaring eyes, hurtful words, explosive actions, closing off spirit, attitude of superiority, tension from anger, and increased heart rate are all visible evidences of anger. A spirit of anger is wrong anywhere, and no one, no not one has the right to display it. You may ask, "Can't anger be used to protect others when they are attacked?" No, because a spirit of anger will only make the situation more dangerous, because angry words stir up strife. "A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger!" (Proverbs 15:1).

Anger is a signal that something is wrong, deep down hurt is being displayed. A spirit of anger is the result of not properly dealing with the initial reaction of anger. Never in Scripture does God command us to have a spirit of anger. In fact, this is the reason why He warns us: "Let not the sun go down upon your wrath!" Allowing anger to turn into wrath is sin. We are giving our spirit to the devil when we allow anger to captivate us. Remember this, anger is not limited to one age group, culture, race, economic level, social status, educational background, or any other classification. It is a universal problem. Anger has been a problem since the beginning of history, and perhaps in your family line, nevertheless, break it! Every person must conquer their anger, because unresolved anger is a "giant". Be aware of your sins and be willing to change.

A Trial...A Prayer...No Bitterness!

2009-08-11T13:53:00.004-05:00

This morning when I woke up, I was shocked to only a tad with what happened outside on our property!
You see, we live in a pretty, safe, nice, neighborhood-that's what I thought! Well, yesterday evening, we had to move our two vehicles to the side of our lawn because my brothers were going to paint a black coding on our driveway. Thus, the cars were parked somewhat safely, and definitely out of the way from the road. Around 1AM we received a phone call from the police department stating, "You have some property damage!" Nevertheless, we did not get this call until this morning when we found it on our answering machine. My dad looked all over the house and could not see anything broken, demolished, or damaged. However, the cars, they were parked on the side of the lawn, away from the road, but close enough for...yes, someone drove by in the middle of the night and smashed five windows! Three on our mini-van, and two on our conversion van! Shocked to this turmoil, we soon found out that whoever did this, went around the rest of the neighborhood and did some more mess. We came to the conclusion, that six other vehicles had smashed windows!

Around 11:00 this morning, our doorbell rang and a gentleman from the neighborhood came on over to tell us more of this mysterious story. He said that he heard the banging of his mailbox and rushed out of bed. He stepped outside furious and mentioned that he was ready to get ugly on whoever did this. To my awareness, I could see that this man is far more angry and bitter than my father. This man only has a damaged mailbox, whereas we have two damaged cars, unable of moving. Although, this morning my parents prayed for these people, whoever attempted to do evil that the Lord will convict them, and bring them to forgiveness. I as well prayed this and am not bitter, angry, or upset at all. Yes, it is money which we would of needed elsewhere, however, the main importance is that our house was protected. I praised and thanked God for this.

The funny thing is, a few days ago, my family and I listened to a sermon about praising God through every little or big storm. I personally inscribed that within and my heart and this morning, I said only something unkind and harsh about these people, and then a minute later realized what I said. I am now praying for these people, and only want them to come to God's presence. It is so important that we praise God in every situation and storm. He has a complete reason for this, perhaps we will find out today, tomorrow, or never. Nevertheless, I will not become bitter, or develop any sense of hatred because God had and has His hands over us! Learn to praise and thank Him for trials, as insane as it might sound, it is the best. A test draws us closer to Christ and it brings us to recognize that we are nothing without Him, it also builds godly character within us, if we praise and glorify God. Everything teaches us God's ways, and if we respond to it correctly, everything will bring peace. Realize that everything comes from God's hand. Take a moment and look at Job, a man who the most righteous of his day. God gave Satan permission to afflict Job within certain limits. Job lost everything, his friends were of no help, and his own wife told Job to condemn God. Nonetheless, what did he do...he praised the Almighty God! In the end, God blessed and rewarded his gratefulness and gave him more than what he had before!

Unless we see that everything comes from the good hand of God, we will never be able to develop a grateful spirit!

~Bill Gothard

Doubting My Salvation...Is This You?

2009-08-07T14:46:00.006-05:00

Thanks y'all for leaving all those kind comments of wishing me a happy birthday!

Anyways, lately I have had a lot on my mind, and as I was talking with a friend the other day, I mentioned, something which caught my own self to stop and think...
We all slip n' slide, falling when a temptation arises, or perhaps we may have a stronghold of sexual desires, anger, hatred, bitterness, disobedience, rebellion, disrespect, so on and so on. Each one of us differs and nevertheless, we all have one similarity, sin. Sin is often deceiving, portrayed as sweet, Innocent, but the consequence thereafter is poison to our souls. Whatever it may be we will have to pay for the price later on, if not sooner. Now, I don't know about you, but when I sin, I will almost immediately realize it, the moment it happens, my mind goes, "Oh no, I did it again!" I feel rotten, but I know that deep down I can have that peace of just coming to my Savior and asking for forgiveness. Some of us do not know when we sin although, we go on and on, either with repeating the same sinful desire, or perhaps with doing a numerous of wrong doings, and thus these type of people are walking in the same route, not knowing what, where, or how to get out. I had a girl come up to me the other day stating, "Vanessa, I don't think I'm saved, I don't hunger for God's Word, and all I want is to be in His arms, I want to be one of His children, but how?" When we have a sort of doubt within us, we may feel insecure, not safe, confused, and a waster. What is our purpose then? I personally believe that we have no purpose if we are without God, we may think that our life is in complete order, perhaps having all the friends, being popular, having a boyfriend/girlfriend, money, and all those so called perfect necessities of the world. However, all of those things are worthless, they are just temporary, and after a while it begins to get boring again and we all long for something else. Something to cover that empty hole, covering it up, but not just temporary, permanently. What can do that?!

As I was younger, I would often doubt my salvation, I would question myself with the words, "Who am I? What is my purpose? Am I really saved? Is God really alive in my life?" Confusion, yes that is the bare picture of confusion. Satan was trying to deceive me with the thought of, "There is no happiness in this world, it's all dark, and you'll be just going through the rest of your life like this, there is only temporary joy and love." I was frightened, I saw my family deepen in God's love, and I tried to have that same joy of opening the bible each morning, but it was not there. I once stated, "I love God too much." I was thankful for the friend who at once corrected me with saying, "No Vanessa, you can never love God enough!" I was running in a dark pit not noticing it, but only realizing that my love for God was standing on a thin shield of glass. If a trial would come, that glass would shatter and I would go down...for a long time. If you are one of those that doubt your salvation, I ask of you to not wait one more second but fall down on your knees and completely humble yourself in front of God. We need to realize that we are dirty, selfish creatures, totally useless without God's help. Let me make this statement true to you, WE ARE ABSOLUTELY ALONE, NOTHING, HELPLESS, DEAD WITHOUT CHRIST! Please, take a moment and acknowledge this, do not just pass over this, if it speaks to you then all you need to do is cry to God. When I say cry, I mean to let all the burden out, and just give all the bitterness, selfish, hatred, whatever it is away.

I have heard that some people do not want to admit it that the first time they asked God in their life was senseless, it was just out of emotions, and didn't mean nothing. Don't let that be you. You need to get right before Christ, I had to do it more than two times. I dedicated my life back to Him after doubting my salvation many times. I love God so much, I love to read His Word, and the best time of my day is to pray to Him. Just knowing that I can tell Him anything, negative or positive. Many times I'll just be in His presence in tears, shame, however, He accepts me back in His arms, and once I know that I have sinned, I cannot go back there. I want to call it all over, throw those sins away, and ask God to move them away. Satan likes to make you feel as if your sin has ruined you and will stick with you forever. THAT IS BOGUS! The truth is that God picks up that sin and hurls it as far as the east is from the west. He promises us in Ezekiel 18:22, "none of the offenses he has committed will be remembered." Know God's truth, learn His Word, study it because then you can crush Satan's lie with it! Bottom line is, Satan is a BIG FAT LIAR! God wants you in His arms, sin is hurtful and painful. Release all of the lies instilled within yourself. Come to know Christ, He is available 24/7 and wants to hear from you.

You may feel ashamed to enter God's presence, but don't. Confess your sins, you need to do this, realize who is far greater, and that we are low and lost. Perhaps you may think because you have caused a deep and dirty sin God will not accept you because He is perfect. Another lie. Please know that He will take you in when you completely realize that you are a lost sinner, and need a Savior. Once you have done or know this, a change needs to occur. You cannot simply live you life the way you want and ask God to accept you as you are, because He wants you to notice the good from the bad and make the sharp turn. Sin creeps up on us, it may be anything from sexuality, materialism, anger, lust...what is keeping you far from God? Be dead to sin, and alive to Christ.

Scripture is very clear, if you haven't noticed that, then I beg you to deep further in and realize the boldness behind the words. It tells us that we must walk away from anything that hinders our love for God. We need to "throw" off our former way of life. I know, that is easier said than done, and I cannot make the process less painful for you, however, the Bible and God will give you a step-step by plan for walking through it! Do not give God a divided heart, half of the heart wants to continue sin, whereas the other half wants to do holiness. He need the whole heart. We cannot do anything with a half heart, He needs the whole thing to work properly, and He is wanting it all. Please give it to Him, and cry for a revelation, He gives it, if you are willing. Read the Bible, walk it, talk it, and live it. You want to know what will happen to you when you die, correct? Hell is dark, scary, lonely, loud noises, why place yourself there? The heavens declare GOD, we will be in a new earth of no more pain, tears, fears or death. Sounds like paradise? It is, but only through God it can be! Be born again!

Embracing Seventeen!

2009-08-05T00:04:00.001-05:00

August 5th, 1992 at 12:27AM a new baby girl entered into this world. Little did she know what God had in store for her the moment she arrived. A stubborn girl she was, not willing to make herself out to this world, but was forced by doctors and then endless hours from her mother. This little baby was the first girl in the family, and was the second child, welcomed by her big brother and two very excited parents. First child to be born in America from the new family, and first one in the BIG lone star state. Hugs and kisses were thrown on this precious little baby and she grew, and grew, and grew. Life came around so suddenly that she woke up once on August 4th 2009 realizing that tomorrow she would be 17. This little girl is me!

Yes, today is my birthday...wow, another year for me has passed by. I'm startled to even say, "Seventeen!" That number seems so large, and also knowing that new situations will arise in the next few years. I remember just yesterday being 6 and stating, "Hm, I wonder how I'll be like when I'm 16?!" I have to admit that my 16th year was very interesting, meeting new people and developing long distance friendships. Experiencing many hardships and headaches. Things I had to go through that I rather would of pushed away. As my life approaches this new year of life, I feel blessed to be more and more in the ultimate presence of Christ Jesus, knowing that He is available to me at all times. I cried many times throughout this past year in the hands of God, pouring out my deep inner thoughts and humbling myself because of past pride issues or perhaps emotions. Seventeen will be a new adventure, taking new steps, new paths, new relationships, and new situations. I look forward to what God has in store for me, knowing that He is not finished with me yet. At times I wonder what this new year will bring, what will change, and what will remain the same, however, I have a peace and no burden because I can give it all to God and know without one doubt that He is in complete charge. I am blessed with family, parents and siblings. I have friends who care for me, those who will encourage me perhaps with emails, phone calls, or blog posts. I thank each one of you for reading my blog and for making a difference in my life. I pray for another wonderful year, and I am excited to see what is in store. Seventeen embraces so many new things, some major and other minor. I do realize that God is in control and I am thankful for that. Growing older also enhances me for other trials and temptations, however, only bracing me closer to Christ and my family. It will be a year of adventure, and also moments of just relying upon God because I'm nothing without Him. I'm learning that each and everyday is a treasure itself, supposedly to be spent with enjoyment and also knowledge in what you do. My character is being sharpened in each trial, circumstance or occurrence. I have come from this girl being hungry for God only about 40%, to now being a young lady thirsting and yearning for God more than 100%! Praise the Lord for what He is doing, I have some sense of timidness in welcoming this new age, nevertheless, I know that I will not be alone, in all struggles the greatest mentor is there by my side-Jesus Christ! Being under the submission and protection of my parents only keeps me away from dangers, things the eye should not view. Blessed for those who care for my soul, and thankful for moments of acknowledgements from Christ. Before we actually realize it, the year shoots by, and looking back I want to remember positive things, and of course a few negative incidences snuck in although, overall I view back seeing a faith coming from small to something much greater! Thanks be to God for giving me life, breath, not even noticing how special that gift is, a gift of living, and most of all in the house of God! I'm thankful for this year, and sharing new posts with y'all and how God moves-powerfully!

August Third...So Special!

2009-08-03T13:51:00.002-05:00

August third, such a special day for me, so many wonderful and exciting situations have occurred throughout my lifetime, many changes as a matter of fact. Thus, the August third I will be sharing with y'all was the one last year, in 2008. That wonderful, fun fulfilled day cleansed me deep within! Prior to that day back in October of 2006, my life went for a drastic change!

I was saved as a young girl at the age of six. I was baptized shortly thereafter, nevertheless, my life never took changes. I was continuing the same route each day, and the older I got, the harder it was for me to stay deep in God's Word. In addition, as I approached the age of 12 and 13, my life was going often on a roller coaster. I would read the Bible, but not everyday, and my prayers were so shallow, I never grew on my own. Thus, my family and I moved to another state and we found this church. In that setting I heard about sin, and it was then that I really acknowledged how sinful I am. I never heard of sin spoken in such a way, so boldly done, convicting, and touching the heart directly. Therefore, in October of 2006, I fell down on my knees right in my bedroom at 5AM and cried before my Jesus. I poured my heart out to Him, and it was that morning that He brought me to Him. I was welcomed into His beloved arms! From that moment on, I was in love with Christ, I could not get enough of Him, and I yearned to be in His presence each and every morning. Summer of 2007 rolled around and far did I know what was in store. Persecution from all corners attacked me, I was struck my darts and arrows, and it often felt as if I were walking on sifted sand. I got hurt from many sides, and many of the so called friends I had. Mocking me for my belief, and little did I know that God was testing me. It was not until the winter of 2007 that I noticed and came across to the Bible verse in 2 Timothy 3:2, "Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution." Once again, I was fallen back and God clearly pointed out why circumstances of trials approached me. The incidences in that previous summer only deepened my walk with Christ, and even when I did not notice it, I was being a witness to my enemies. God also instilled His voice within me telling me that He wanted to make sure that I was serious this time. Never ever will I walk away from Him again!

In conclusion, August third 2008 is special to me because I was baptized again, I waited almost two years for that special day, and the moment I was under water and came back up, I felt cleansed, and renewed! I knew that the decision of me renewing my faith was that best thing I have ever decided. I cannot imagine my life without God, and I know that I'm far from perfect, each day I fail, and many times I will just say, "Why have I fallen again?" God has an answer for everything, it amazes me because each answer is exactly what I need to hear. When I fall He is right there to pick me up and when He does so, not only am I encouraged, but also slowly understanding His will for the situation. Day by day I am reminded of His goodness, His gentleness, His mercy, and His everything, that I often do not deserve His love, however, He wants me, and I cannot be without Him! My chains are gone, I've been set free!

Broken Before God

2009-07-30T11:56:00.012-05:00

The other night as I was sitting in my bed just thinking, I looked upon my day and just thought. I was confused and my mind felt clouded to all the things occurring around me. So many thoughts found it's way through in just minutes. Thoughts of negativity, crept in as well, and then in the far corner, I saw the thought of, "Vanessa, what exactly are you doing here, what is your purpose?" I struggled with that thought, and battled against it because there are many circumstances within my life at the moment where I would just love to have God's exact answer right away. Nevertheless, I am learning to this very minute that I have to wait and just rely upon Him. If it was my will and my way, I would of already acted to what I'm struggling with. However, we often miss God's perfect plan for our lives, we rush it without stopping to hear what He has to say. I have come to the point this morning that I broke down, my heart is completely crushed, and I do not have any answer on my own, it is completely God's choice and answer for my life. It is whatever He wants, and not what I want. Not my will, but His will! If confusion creeps within your mind, it is not of God. Remember, God is NOT the author of confusion. I have given my everything, I owe nothing anymore, and my life is totally in His hands. I have acted many times out of my own will, and tried to do it all my own, but suddenly, this circumstance within my life came for a total reason because I cannot solve it alone. God is going to intervene and do it, when He wants, and not when I want it fixed. We cannot get in between His plan, we need to give him the full charge, and just wait and see what He will do. Trying to rush things just because we think it would fix it all can mess up God's perfect will for our life!

Of course, when we allow God to take control of the shift, a burden is lifted. When I came to the conclusion of this, He brought me to this song, and the first verse and chorus of it, is exactly relating to my life at the moment, and how God needs to come on in. I hope it will speak to y'all as well.

SAVIOR, PLEASE (Joshua Wilson)
Savior, please take my hand
I work so hard, I live so fast
This life begins, and then it ends
And I do the best I can, but I don't know how long I'll last

I try to be so tough
But I'm just not strong enough
I can't do this alone, God I need You to hold on to me
I try to be good enough
But I'm nothing without Your love
Savior, please, keep saving me

*Y'all need to check out this song, beautiful and amazing! I know the young man who composed it, and now he himself is getting out into the Christian media world-such as the radio, it's awesome!!

Wisdom in ONLY Six Words!

2009-07-27T08:16:00.001-05:00

DUSTY BIBLES LEAD TO DIRTY LIVES!

To Kiss Or Not To Kiss?

2009-07-16T16:29:00.005-05:00

What about the first kiss? When should it be done, and why wait for the wedding ceremony? Some people say, "Oh, why wait for that special person...one kiss won't hurt ya?" Whereas, others may have a complete different opinion, "Honor and respect each other, and save your purity, as well as the first kiss for your life mate someday!" That second statement is what I believe. I believe that the Bible teaches that all sexual activity outside of marriage is sin, and all romantically oriented physical activity is sexual activity. In my view, this includes premarital kissing. Now, I'm going to take this whole 'kissing' issue and break it down.

First of all, when I'm talking of a kiss, I mean the relation of a girl and guy emotionally and physically giving each other a kiss on the lips. A virgin is a girl who has not had any physical relationship with any young men. We as girls need to remain virgins until the day of marriage. The moment a young man and lady kiss each other before they agree to marry, is in my eyes impure and they have now broken God's promise of remaining pure and holy. Leviticus 21:13 says something which speaks the bold and bare truth, "And he shall take a wife in her virginity." It does not state that he shall take a wife who is immoral and impure. When God tells us something, He sure known what He is talking about. Guys, there may be young women who are beautiful and may act kind towards you, nevertheless, if she has been kissed already and has wrapped herself around others, what gives you the desire to know her more? A kiss is something delicate and should only be done at your wedding, and from that moment on with the man or woman you married. In the world we live in, many girls are wasting and giving up their purity at the young and tender age of 13. Many times a girl or guy will give that first kiss to someone they have perhaps been dating, and even though they know that this is not the type of person they want to live and share life with forever they still kiss, and thus the pure young virgin is now a harlot, giving her body away! Kissing will only make you want to do more than just a kiss. And why put someone you claim to care about at a spiritual risk?

Now, a little girl's dream is to get married to a prince and wear a beautiful long and white dress. Time flies and that dream still remains, however, if this little girl grew up to dress defrauding and be a flirt, and lets say that her very first kiss was with the neighbor boy, then her dream of wearing a beautiful white dress should in my opinion be changed to a black dress. This may sound harsh, however, she has messed up, and yes God will forgive if she asks, but if she continues on with this way of lifestyle, she needs a black dress! We make our own choices, and some of those decisions will give yourself away. Black and white will turn to gray, and we will eventually crumble, it's a slow fade and Satan is trying to device you in thinking that purity now a days is old school. No, it is hard to keep that heart pure and our purpose is to wait for God to work and not for us to go out on our own and look for Mr. Right, or Ms. Right. Don't you want your wife or husband to have the thought of, "Wow, my spouse waited for me, and I don't have to worry that she/he was someone elses before."

The first kiss is something done at the altar and just think of how good and romantic that will feel. You waited and respected others for their will of purity. I even believe that the kiss should have no place in the courtship or engagement. Listen to a story I once heard; a young man and woman found each other and courted for awhile until the young man knew in his heart that it was the princess he wanted and thus asked his future bride to marry him. Nonetheless, they both decided to not have any form of physical contact and especially NO kissing! As a result to this, the two remained pure by God's strength and shockingly, they discovered that they were not meant for each other. However, this young man is thankful to this very day that he kept his purity and that he didn't give his special kiss to the girl he thought was his. This story helps me to continue head strong with my purity.

Alright, to sum things all up I will leave y'all with a few more words. God says in Hebrews that the marriage bed is honorable and it should be kept until the first kiss was done at the wedding ceremony. Our number one temptation every single day is that we lean into our own understanding. We define everything with how it fits our own needs. This works just with the fact of kissing. We need to leave this up to God when the first kiss comes, and even if we don't understand why, just believe God and trust in Him because His timing is far better than yours. The first kiss is something special, and I bet it feels good because deep down you will know and you can tell your spouse that, "My very first kiss!" You also want a wife or husband that has kept their kiss and overall purity for you. You deserve their reward, and they deserve yours. Save your kiss, save it, save it, save it! This is the part of a couple, joined together, and taking each other and showing love by kissing each other. Lock it up in a box, and when the time comes, take it out, and thank God as well as your future spouse for keeping me pure. Ok, last thing that I want to share with y'all is one more short story of a young lady and man.

A young lady and man went through the courtship and it came to the point of engagement and they committed to be pure always until the wedding ceremony with each other. After many months of waiting and the long hours of patience, the special day arrived. The young lady put her beautiful white dress on, and walked down the aisle with her father seeing her soon to be husband waiting for that perfect and special gift. In conclusion, the moment the pastor said, "You may kiss the bride!", she whispered in the groom's ear saying, "Thank you for keeping me pure and respecting our decision!" Amen and hallelujah, save that kiss!

Waiting to express your love physically lays a strong foundation of trust for your marriage!

Back Home...

2009-07-15T12:51:00.001-05:00

Hello y'all! Well, I'm back home!

Yes, my family and I returned back home yesterday night very, very, late. It feels good to be in your own house again, nevertheless, I miss SO many people! Texas was literally the highlight of my summer, I consider it also my birthday gift. It was so wonderful and being able to go back to my hometown and seeing people that care and love us. It was lovely to see God dwell within that land. Churches among every street, billboards of scripture verses or statements of Christ, and it was amazing to run into people and hear them say, "Y'all take care and God bless!" I don't hear that very often where I live. I'm so thankful and feel so blessed that I was able of seeing good old friends, and some new friends. It is of course sad to leave those who care for you, and where you know you have a place in their heart, however, God has placed my family and I over here for a complete reason, and oftentimes I do not see the perfect reason and plan. Although, I will not lean upon my own understanding, but look towards God for direction and timing. Nonetheless, we praise GOD for bringing my family and I back home, it was such a long trip, back and forth 3800 miles, and yet God was close to our car, guiding it day by day. I also look forward to see what God can do in the near future with my family and where He will lead us.

As I now look back upon those 2 weeks, memories of laughter, happiness, talking, and joy remain, and far back in my mind the thought of sadness has crept itself in. I see faces before me, the ones who have been there for my family when times were hard or when moments of rejoicing. God moved my family, He did it before and He can do it again, we just allow Him to work! A prayer for my family would be, let God work, and not us! Be blessed y'all and one thing that I look forward is that I can be back on the blogging world. God bless!

Flirty Girls! Flirty Guys!

2009-07-10T15:27:00.002-05:00

I will mention one of the discussions I had with my friend last night, thus, that will be something concerning the topic and broad aspect of purity.

Yesterday night my friend and I had a conversation addressing the fact of guys and girls and the way they interact with each other. I also had the talk of how many of us have the inside desire to get married, and if God wills it then it will occur. It also does sadden me at how many girls/guys will be careless about their actions. Now, I know, that I have had talked about this many, many times and really do not need to constantly shove it down y'all's throat, however, it is something that I could talk about ALL the time. Basing it upon God's laws, and I really love to get in either a debate about this or a discussion with others and learn their perspective on things such as this. It's a bothersome to me when girls and guys are flirting with each other, and how many of them treat each other with disrespect, and to be honest and true with y'all, many don't realize that they are being disrespectful! To be blunt and bold, a guy and girl who are acting immoral, and with impurity, that is no sign of respect, if they would hold the plate of respect, then they would not be flirting and playing around with each other because they are concerned and want to hold their purity for the right one.

I have had situations in the past that I will unintentionally act or talk with a guy, and nevertheless, they will begin to have the thought and the impression that Vanessa is flirting around with them. Not too long ago I actually did something quite out of the ordinary. I personally went up to a young man and asked him if I was treating him alright, and if my joking and kidding around was fine with him. Now girls, we may do this with our 'girlfriends' and they will take it fine, nevertheless, a guy has a different mind. He might be thinking thoughts of how this girl likes him, and is just acting to get his attention. Thus, I felt and had the inner voice within me from God saying, "Go up to this young man and ask him if what I'm doing is fine." I sure did that, and it was hard because I had to get over my comfort zone and take the step of addressing him bluntly and saying, "Is it ok that I'm kidding around with you? Because I do know that some guys take this in the wrong side of the throat."

Now, I will give y'all three reason why flirting is wrong.

1. Ok, flirting may feel good and fun, with lots of excitement and it leads to destruction without notice, and thus that is wrong.

2. Flirting allows us to often take a relationship and perhaps grow into it, and then realizing it was never meant to be.

3. Flirting creates thoughts within us that cause sinful emotions, wrongful actions, and not noticing that you are actually using your mind and actions without caution and creating a pocketful of hurtful feelings.

In addition, flirting is the onset of impurity, and causing the opposite gender to fall. Everyone tends to flirt in a different way. Altogether, it's biblical wrong, and to play around with the other gender in an impure way, is causing him/her to have the wrong thoughts and emotions. I try hard to stay away from things that will make me fall, and something like this is where I still stumble upon often. God works in us, and we need to be willing to give our heart to Him, and let Him use it for His purpose. Flirtatious actions are fitfully wrong and are not to be done in our single years, being married is a different story, but while being a single person in the Lord Jesus Christ, we need to glorify and give Him our attention only!

Update On My Trip!

2009-07-07T15:25:00.003-05:00

Hey y'all! I'm not home yet, but using the internet at my uncle's house!!

Well, Texas has been great. I'll give y'all just a slight update. I was going to post up something, nevertheless, I'm pretty sure y'all are interested in hearing all about my trip! :) Visiting new people and seeing new faces has been a blast. Saying bye to some very good "new" friends was quite hard for me, and yet the Lord has to move us on. I have enjoyed myself very much, and really loved the discussions I've had with a few of the youngsters I met. I also gained some ideas for a blog post, however, those will have to wait until my return home. It was very neat to meet the people that have visited my blog for some time, and also hear them talk about my posts, even though some of them talked of the posts in a fun way! :) Throughout this time, I have seen things which have sparked my interest and I look forward to sharing it all with y'all. Since I'm in the hot climate, I have also seen some people dress not the very best, and also joke around with, "They need to read my blog!" Anyways, this trip has been overall great, and an enjoyment. Spending time with my family, away from the usual things, and having fellowship with great friends! Alright, y'all stay well and till another post...

Leaving-again

2009-07-01T15:52:00.004-05:00

What a wonderful discussion we had in the previous post! It was wonderful to see comments from everyone, guys and girls! It would be great to have comments and discussions like that every time, one of y'all just got to bring a question up! :)

Anyways, this post will be about me leaving-yes again! I'm going on a vacation with my whole family this time, and will once again be gone for 2 weeks. Nevertheless, this trip will not be to another country, instead another state, a state I long to live again, the state where I grew up in, where I was born in, the lone star state-TEXAS! I'm going to see some very good friends, as well as meet new friends, people I have been conversing with for sometime already. I'm so excited to meet the people who have also been visiting my blog, and even those who left comments on my blog today. It's going to be a wonderful visit, a time for fellowship, and perhaps even a time of discussions such as the one I had over my blog today! As of now, I will leave y'all with this, and will post all about my wonderful trip on my return home. I will be leaving this evening, and all I ask is for y'all to pray for the safety of my family and the vehicle! May God bless y'all and I'll be back if the Lord wills so (meaning I want to move!:).

What Are You Doing With Your Body?

2009-06-29T12:46:00.003-05:00

The other day while I was in Chicago with my family, I noticed how insane our nation of teenagers and young adults are! It happened to be a very hot day, and I did know and was already prepared to a certain extent of how some of the girls were going to dress. Nevertheless, to make me even more shocked, there were guys where I just thought, "How can you be so bold?" Thus, the topic of this post will be all about, "What are you doing with your body?"

I may actually end up being a few times quite bold and blunt, however, it will be the plain truth. I have prayed about this certain issue a few times, and asked God how I could post it up on my blog, with what type of words, and how to bring my message I have in my mind across. Thus, this morning, as I was praying, God pointed out to me that I should just get on my blog, and begin writing, and the words will just pour out!
Almost everyday I come across people that dress to impress or those who will put clothes on with the attitude of "This will get so and so, or maybe I will have many guys look at me!" I don't have to go very far, just in my neighborhood I see young girls dressing impure, and the way they walk is very disturbing. Ok, this whole post will not be on us girls, I will squeeze in guys as well. I have three brothers, and also know other guys. I have heard a Christian guy's perspective on this many times as well, "Why make it harder for us?" When I hear this, my heart just screams, and I want to go to every girl and tell them how much it's killing the guys! They are the ones suffering from this impurity, and from the actions and dress of a girl. I have been to churches in the past, thinking that this is a time of fellowship and moments to encourage your friends in God's way. Nonetheless, to my shock I was seeing girls and guys flirting with each other. Seeing that they were at church just for the opposite gender. Why take your body out and give it away? For what purpose? When we dress with little on us we are giving away ourselves to whoever. The moment we see a pretty girl walk across the room, or a stunning guy, some of us may experience sweaty palms, beating hearts, or impure thoughts. This is the one that struck me, having thoughts of this person which is so hurtful and not pleasing to God at all!
We have control of what we think, our thoughts are like a taxi, we can tell the driver where we want to go, and that is just like our thoughts. We can say and determine enough thinking of that, but do we choose to? Teenagers of this day and age are blinded, they don't see the danger and don't see the harm they are doing to others. Girls will wear their skimpy tops, and guys will perhaps go topless, and why do they do this, just to get the attention of others. A normal guy's reaction when he sees a girl who knocks him of his feet will think sinful thoughts, and will have a difficult time of blocking those. Now, when a girl sees a guy who is shockingly good looking she will often think of wrong thoughts, but it is a little bit easier to block off those thoughts. I sometimes think, why can't they just put more clothes on? It bothers me because it is going against God's standards and just imagine how much He is hurting?
Honestly, you are giving your body away when you just hang it all out. You are purposely taking either a girl's or guy's thoughts, and capturing him/her with your ways and dress. It may be hot outside, and yet why dress with the least possible? Your body is for yourself at the moment while being single and then someday when you marry, that is for your husband or wife alone. Not for 100 guys looking straight at you with their mouth hanging open!
When a guy looks at a girl, and if he allows his thoughts to go farther, then he has committed adultery with her in his heart! Although, who caused him to stare with lustful eyes? A half naked girl did, one who didn't care about anyone, but herself and just wanting all the attention on her. Of course, we all have feelings, and emotions and even a guy or girl modestly dressed will often cause us to fall off our feet. It happens, but the majority of teenagers in this country are foolishly dressed with little care!
Why do you want your body to be looked at? Don't you just want one husband or one wife? We are causing someone elses spouse to fall down and are making a big mistake here. If we happen to think of so and so, evaluate and think, you are actually thinking of someone elses spouse! That right there really hit me and made me think. Please don't put clothes on just to catch an eye or two. Dress to glorify your Father in heaven. Even you guys out there can dress quite disturbing, and going around shirtless in the park, is not honoring your Father in heaven! He gave us our bodies to treat with dignity, and also for one special person someday. Low cut shirts girls are a big stronghold to guys, and those tiny, tiny shorts will damage his thoughts. And guys, your thoughts can be controlled, and I have no clue how hard it must be, although, when you do see a pretty girl please call unto God to take away all impurity and sinful thoughts! Girls, don't have the thoughts of, "Oh, I want to dress the way I want! He can control his eyes from looking at me!" This is wrong, why hurt your brother in Christ, why cause him to fall into a deep sin? We know that he has a problem with this, and please don't irritate it.
The next time you dress for an occasion, ask your Father in heaven, is this appropriate? Will this make my brother or sister in Christ stumble? Or are my actions immodest? How can I be an encouragement to them, and just show that I do care how I treat my body, because I want to keep it for the marriage bed! "Marriage is honorable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge." Hebrews 13:4
Save your body, and that kiss for that special person someday. God will honor your self-control as well as your purity. There is nothing better than talking with brothers and sisters in Christ who act blameless and with a pure heart!

Reasons For Not Hugging a Girl/Guy

2009-06-19T14:59:00.004-05:00

My previous post was giving my general opinion and point about why I believe hugging girls/guys is wrong and inappropriate. Now, I will point a few facts of exactly why it is all wrong.

1. Hugging the opposite gender is first and foremost inappropriate because it brings the message across as, impure and it is far from being blameless.

2. Girls, when we put guys in that moment, we are causing them to stumble mentally and physically, and it will put them into an awkward situation.

3. Guys, now, I'm not a guy, although since I am a girl, I know what it does to me when you hug a girl from the front. I often will get the impression, "He likes me!" It also works with our mind and it will at moments distract me from what I should be thinking.

4. Giving a hug to the other gender can often implant sinful thoughts, and what if we are hugging a guy/girl who is trying to stay physically and mentally pure, we have just caused them to fall down.

5. Girls and guys, when we are hugging a guy/girl from the front, and when he/she is putting his/her arms around you, just think of all the impurity and immorality taken place at perhaps those 2 seconds.

6. A side hug can be fine, and yet, just a little bit here and there can lead into a total disaster. Why place yourself into a iffy situation and feeling?

7. Hugging a guy/girl is also showing the wrong impression. Perhaps we don't plan at all to come across as sensual or impure, nevertheless, people cannot read our mind and thoughts, thus, even if we don't mean it to be wrong, it can come across as that.

8. When approaching a guy/girl, instead of taking the arm out, stretch out your right hand for a shake, if that would make you feel better, and still not trying to come across as rude. Our bodies are not meant to be touched by every person.

9. Now, this is for girls...when you are hugging a guy, what is he feeling? Yes, this is bold and yet the bare truth, his mind is racing at different emotions, when for us it might not even bother us. We are sending feelings, and 'messages' to him, and are causing some one's future husband to fall!

10. Thus, I'm not saying that hugging is a total sin, it is NOT! Just be careful with how you are giving, or how you are posing your body. Come to a point that you will discern and do all things with purity, and being blameless. Do not come up to a guy/girl with the thought or idea to intentionally cause him/her to fall. A guy's emotions and feelings in an area like this, are ten times stronger than a girls. He struggles with this, and we as girls need to be alert and not purposely trip him.

"Now concerning the things whereof ye wrote unto me: It is good for a man not to touch a woman." 1 Corinthians 7:1
This verse is for those unmarried, and it also qualifies for you girls as well!

Yearn for a Heart of Gold!

2009-06-14T16:41:00.005-05:00

Girls, how many of you like it when you see other girls hugging every single guy they come across? And guys, how does that make you feel when you see girls hugging a guy with a full body contact? For me to see that, I get the thought and impression that a girl is just out there selling herself away because she wants all the attention, and she will get it from anyone. I have seen girls, and known girls who are always doing this. Now, when I see a guy do this as well, I get another thought and think secondly about him. What if his 'future' wife was standing in a corner, or walked by him? This goes for girls as well. Does the thought ever come across that perhaps your 'future' husband is maybe walking right by you? Messing up as being young does happen, but please, prevent it from getting there when you know the right from the wrong. It could easily be that you have messed up, or are messing up as being young and a change in your life will come from God and you turn around. However, as being young, you may be known as the girl or guy who gave their body away out of foolishness and temptation!

I'm a girl who is striving for purity, and many times I am ashamed of my own actions, that I often hope my future husband is not seeing me. Nevertheless, I do not know this, and we should at all times act if our future spouse is right there, and that God is ALWAYS looking. I don't want to see my future husband falling into a filthy temptation, or having other girls falling all over him. The thought and scene of that makes my heart fall, and my stomach turn. In my perspective, guys just need to be guys. Strong, hard working, pure, blameless, and staying away from the all hugging gushy things, until the day of marriage. And girls, please, do not cause a guy to stumble whether it be in your actions, dress, or speech! We are all workers of iniquity, however, the Lord wants our hearts, as well as our parents. Do not give your heart to a guy or girl out of curiosity or foolishness, keep it strong and safe.

The thoughts within our mind determine what is taking place in our heart, and will eventually spread out to our actions. That's pretty powerful! Sinful thoughts, and sinful actions occur when we are playing foolishly with the other gender. Talking and acting in a pure conversation with the opposite gender is God's way of fellowship .Why mess around? Why lose your heart and purity? We need to act blamelessly, and when coming in interaction with a guy or girl, treat him or her with respect. Do not flirt or use flattery within your words, but treat them as brothers and sisters in Christ, which will honor our Lord Jesus Christ! A girl's emotions are full of drama, and many times if her parents or God does not have her heart, she will pour it out to a guy she considers as her best friend, I've seen this occur many times. That is danger! Our deepest thoughts belong with God, mom and dad. I personally believe that having a guy or girl as a best friend is not the greatest idea. Naturally, guys and girls are different, and best friends in my perspective should be of the same gender. In addition, having a few godly young men or ladies around for fellowship within a group is beautiful and talking with pure conversations. Titus 2:12 says, "Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world."

As my conclusion, yearn for perfection and strive for purity. Take no false ways, and do not give your way to those of sinful acts. Our actions will someday be judged, and if we live our lives while being in our youth foolishly, then our acts will pass on to our generation. I most certainly do not want my children to go around and try every guy or girl out. This thought encourages me to be pure and wait for my beloved, and my prince charming!

"I am my beloved's and my beloved in mine!" Song of Solomon 6:3

Tears, Hurt, Sadness, Pain!

2009-06-13T17:22:00.005-05:00

Last night, I noticed and came to the conclusion that I do not like crying! Y'all might be like, what?! There are many, many different types of tears as well. Tears of joy, pain, shame, fear, anxiety, love, death, birth, healing, and so much more titles. I had to let go of one of my best friends, because she moved. I was hurt, sad, and had a stitch of pain within my heart, questioning myself and actually God as well, "Why?" No, it was not the last thing in the world, however, I have been living here in this state for almost 3 years, and this friend was sent from God. It was hard to break it apart. Tears hurt, they hurt the inside of the heart, as well as they kick up the past emotions and thoughts. I have told myself many times before, do not cry, hold it all in. It was not until recently that I heard something which brought me to think otherwise. Holding it all inside will not bring you anywhere, it just causes more bitterness, anger, wounds, or hurt. The best remedy is to let it all out, allowing the tears to flow straight from the eyes rolling down the cheeks. Crying is a natural human motion and act, it washes the eyes, and clears away all hurt, letting it all out. Whenever I feel like crying, I'll go to God and just cry in his arms, telling him to catch my tears, and to heal my wounds and hurt.
I often think how unfair a situation is, although, God is a fair and just God. He has everything planned and searched out for a reason, and many times I think, this trial is never ending God! Nevertheless He gives me a hope and a promise, a place with no more suffering, with no more tears, no more pain, and no more fears! Isn't this just so beautiful?! Knowing that I won't have to cry because of hurtful incidences, death, fear, sadness, and pain. The place God has for me is in His house, heaven. A place where my heart yearns to be, that is after I have a family! :) Tears are good for washing away the misery, however, God also gives us tears to wipe away the suffering. All of us may think how it is a little embarrassing to cry, and I know for guys it may be more than girls with that kind of feeling, but just remember, God gave us tears, emotions, and feelings all for a purpose, and letting them out every now and then is totally normal. It cleanses the heart, and washes away the dirt and hurt within!

My 11th Yr. of School is All Over!

2009-06-12T10:23:00.004-05:00

Wow...you might be wondering why I'm saying wow, but once I explain my "WOW" you might be saying "WOW" too (or maybe not?!).

I'M DONE WITH SCHOOL! Today was my last day as a Junior in high school, I turned in all my tests, reports, and final exam, and finished it all with a great score! I have only one year left, and then my graduation of class 2010!

I'm so thrilled to finally have this school year behind me, it was the hardest and longest one ever, with all the homework, and not to forget, chemistry! God and I pulled it all the way through, we did it together and I also give credit to my mom and my oldest brother Marc who helped me with my chemical equations and algebraic equations! It was a tough nine months, and I know that the next 10 weeks of this summer will go by fast too before I start up again...senior year! Yikes! However, God pulled me through this one, and He won't let me down on the next one either! Praise God for this great report of completion and I also want to give congrats to all of you who graduated from this great task in this year of class 2009! Praise GOD for wise minds, and instilling within us a task of determination and diligence!

Pictures of Germany

2009-06-10T16:21:00.013-05:00

Alright, I finally got some pictures up from my brother Marc and my trip to Germany. Marc mostly made pictures of the scenery, and I would rather have pictures of the people. It just shows that I'm more of a people person to begin with! :)

A village like the one above is very small and the streets are often over crowded with people and cars. When driving through there, it was often a speed of no more than 5 mph.

Take a look at the lush from those trees. I always thought that where I live in America was very green, boy was I wrong!

Literally, the forest is in walking distance from my grandparent's house. If you're running, maybe 5 minutes, and walking about 10 minutes. It's amazing. The back with all the trees is the dark, cold, and yet beautiful forest.

A picture of the entire front side of the town I was nearby.

Just to give y'all a quick glimpse of how the houses are different over there as well. The whole style and layout is different, and yet very homey and cute.

This is another German castle standing in the middle of water, utterly amazing! A German family is actually still living in there, and maintain is daily. There have been many royal families dwelling therein in the past. A family once who had 22 children!

This town is where my brother Marc was born. If you look closely, there is a castle in the back of the picture. The villages and towns in Germany, especially where I was at, are so cute and beautiful!

I just love horses, and have grown to love them even more....these two beautiful horses live right in my grandparent's back yard. No, they don't own them, but they do share the property.

It's a very beautiful country! So green and lush, and the air is totally different than over here. God sure does leave his perfection in creation everywhere around the world.

I'M HOME!

2009-06-05T19:58:00.004-05:00

Hello once again!!

I'm back....back from my trip to Europe. It was a great time, good moments with my grandparents and great grandma. I saw and realized the great need for this visit and knew that I had to be there. The flight on over was just fine, I was praying the entire time and just reflecting upon God, and it was amazing, by the time that flight was over, my faith grew a little bit more. I felt it for sure. When I took the return flight on home, I was not even a tad scared, I knew without a shadow of doubt that God was sitting right next to me in the spare seat! The time was indeed limited, and I tried to spent each and every second with them. I made many pictures and will keep them as a dear keepsake.

My brother fell in love with the German culture and life. He was born in Germany and thus felt a tad of connection. I was having a great time, and nevertheless, wanted to come home already this past Monday. I was homesick because the house was so quiet. I did not have my loving siblings to keep me company and to make me laugh and smile. I had the laughter, but still I missed their faces. To have all of their arms around me when I returned was great. However, while I was in this foreign land I felt the emptiness of Christ within this country. I was saddened and especially missed my Christian radio station. There was no sign of God, and all the young people were smoking and just living an awful life. This occurs within America as well, but at least there are Christians here!! I would often lie down in my bed and look at the stars and moon and just think and wonder. I prayed over the country as well when I was in the airplane. My heart is in America, and especially in Texas!!

It was a great trip, and I will be sharing some pictures of the scenery in the next couple of days. I've been awake for almost 24 hours now, and need to rest some before the busy week starts up again! I'm glad to be home and missed many things. I also felt amazed at how awesome God is and how omnipresent He is. I can talk to him in Illinois, and 4,000 and plus miles across the ocean! How awesome is that! Thanks for the prayers y'all and God BLESS!

Going Away For A Little While...

2009-05-24T19:39:00.003-05:00

Hello y'all! I have just a quick post and a quick reason for why I won't be posting for about 2 weeks. I am flying out of Europe tomorrow....yes, I'm quite nervous and yet have the voice within my mind telling me to be calm and still and know that I am with you. God is near me and will guide me all the way on this trip. I am going with my oldest brother, and will be visiting my grandparents for the time. I have traveled alone before, but never to a different country! So, this is all a bit *new* for me and a little bit scary. However, God is by my side and Satan is trying to imprint thoughts of worry, fright, and fear within me. I know better to fight against those fears, it's not easy because I do have thoughts of, "What if...?" My God is with me and will guide my footsteps along the way. I would appreciate the prayers, because I feel real scared at the moment. Thanks friends and till then....

Seeing God through a Poor Man's Eyes

2009-05-20T19:24:00.001-05:00

When God mentions being poor in spirit, he does not mean what we think, however, he holds a different perspective on this phrase. When hearing the word poor, many of us will more or likely think of a beggar, or perhaps a homeless man, in addition, one who is in lack of money. Nevertheless, the Lord sees the poor with a total better analogy, a man; woman or child who is in definite need of God's help. In other words, we need to humble ourselves to the lowest point, and realize that we are nothing without Christ.

A man or woman who is full of pride and an attitude of "two good for anything" also carries the mentality of not needing a God. When a situation as such occurs, no person can understand and see God's holiness because their mind is supposedly too high for such an imagination, as some may call it. Nonetheless, a man or woman with a poor spirit can see God's beauty, His holiness, His perfections, His goodness, and His unconditional love. The Greek word for poor is thus, 'ptoe-KOSS' which simply means, "Life is difficult" or perhaps even a better and clearer definition, "I am not going to make it without help."

We need to acknowledge that we are wretched creatures, and our life needs to depend solely in Christ alone. The lowly run to their God, however, the foolish say there is no God. The only ones, who can see God, are the poor in spirit, the ones who are just and lower themselves lower then dirt, as to say. A boastful person sees no one and no necessity of relying and asking others for help. All they see are themselves and have a "my" vision. They also picture life as going solo, alone and therefore are totally fine without God.

Often, we may find ourselves perhaps being a bit too prideful, thus we need to ask Christ to humble our boastful spirit, so that we can have the wonderful gift of seeing and grasping God's holiness. Sooner or later, the arrogant man will fall, and by God's grace, he will notice the importance of Christ and an attitude of gratitude!

How to Praise Others and How to Receive Praise

2009-05-15T18:42:00.004-05:00

The Bible commands us to not be prideful of our own selves and also not boast about our actions. Proverbs 27:2 says, "Let another man praise thee, and no thine own mouth; a stranger, and not thine own lips." Many times a man, woman, or child will boast of how wonderful they are or how talented they are. Nevertheless, our mouths should not say how "good" and "righteous" we are, because the Lord is looking for a humble spirit. In the first book of Corinthians, chapter 26:31 clearly states, "Let him who boasts, boast of the Lord." Therefore, we are encouraged greatly to be prideful and boastful of one very important subject, Jesus Christ! We can blamelessly talk of Jesus every second, although with a low spirit. If someone were to praise our character, then we should not just accept those words of kindness, however, say something in return and praise the one who taught you that character quality. Nevertheless, we need to be careful and alert on how we use our voice when we praise the character and or the attitude of family, friends, or others. Proverbs 27:14 wisely states, "He that blesseth his friend with a loud voice, rising early in the morning, it shall be counted a curse to him." In other words, if we were to purposely praise others with flattery because we want a word or two in return, then those words which we spoke are actually striking as pain like a snake whose poison hurts the inner soul. "At the last it biteth like a serpent and stingeth like an adder," thus says Proverbs 23:32. If we want to praise others, then it should be done with a humble heart and not expecting words in return. A humble heart and character will the Lord praise! "A man's pride shall bring him low: but honor shall uphold the humble in spirit." (Proverbs 29:23)

What Will Your Choice Be?

2009-05-09T09:51:00.004-05:00

This past week as I went shopping to a children's toy store, I was quite ashamed and appalled at how the media is introducing our young nation of children with immoral books and toys. To my surprise, I saw books for girls perhaps as young as 7 or so titled and all about 'boys, boys, boys.' One of the books was so sensual and a rather waste of money. It was titled, "Boys, boys, boys...." Then under the title, I saw what the book was all about, the top 50 or so cutest boys in Hollywood know all the insights from them. As I saw this, I was just thinking to myself, "How awful!" What a waste of ink, paper, and money. How sad and yet very disgusting at how our world is getting. Books as such are just causing girls to think of immoral thoughts. It is actually promoting sin! It makes girls wish to be with a guy as such, and to feel sad because perhaps they are not pretty enough. Another book which I spotted was, "How to make a guy attracted to you", that is just WRONG! And I am talking about 10 year old girls! That is even more shocking to me. A 10 year old needs to just stay pure, not worry about her looks, and not to be concerned what guys are thinking of her. The book titled, "Boys, boys, boys...." also including all the thoughts which guys think about girls and so forth!

When I see immoral things as such, my heart cries....it aches! I think of how awful and far our world is getting. This world is sucking up little girls, girls who are 8-10 these days are acting like 15 year old girls! All this foolish talk of who likes who, or my boyfriend, or all the insides of clothes and makeup and how to really get it on and make this cute guy look at me! Why, why do we want to impress a guy? We should not dig into all the celebrity gossip, or the 'talk' and 'secrets' of this world. Jesus is not looking for that, he is NOT interested in any of it! I have to remind myself of that ALL the time. I fall too, believe me. It is so sad how girls will feel inferior of themselves and will try to look so perfect and in the inside they are hurt and torn. All they want is the attention of a guy! They want his eyes on their body. I have spoken to many girls and most of them will say this, "I will know if I'm pretty if this guy just takes one look at me!" The world, my friends is terrible, it is an abomination to my eyes....if it hurts us Christians so, just imagine and think how it hurts our Father God in heaven?

There are many games out there which are selling and which many girls are buying because it tells who your 'crush' is. Or it will tell you how to get popular in school, or how to be the seller in your group of friends. Why....why all this foolishness? What is the purpose? What will it bring? NOTHING! Honestly, a lot of that silliness just brings pain to girls because they want what the teenage pop star girls of this world have...the money, the fame, the clothes, the looks, the guys, and all that worthless stuff. God does not want your money, He does not care if you are the most popular girl or the lowest girl ever. He wants that heart of yours. And He does not want it used, He wants it new! How many of you can give him that? Have you wasted your heart for someone else, perhaps a senseless guy? Please, please, please, do not sell your heart to anyone, but God alone! He needs it, and He WANTS it! Reading sensual books, articles, magazines, or whatever it is, is, to be honest and bold with you, wasting your time! All it is doing is creating this emptiness within many and this envy of wanting to look like this girl, and it is bringing you further and further away from Christ. I want to enter heaven with the words approaching, "Well done, my good and faithful servant!" Not otherwise, "I know you not, depart from me you worker of sinful deeds!"

Will you read all the gossip, or try to make a guy stumble just because you want it. That is being selfish! My heart is ALWAYS being convicted because of my sinful attitude and mind, and Christ is showing me more and more who I am and who I am to be! Make your choice with God's word. You cannot redo a mistake. However, you can recommit your life to Christ, now is your time to do so! You have control of who you are, your thoughts are just like a taxi, "Once in, it drives you where you want to go!" That is just like the mind, you can have that control of what you will think of! What is your choice.....

My Best Friend....

2009-04-28T15:03:00.008-05:00

What is a friend? Is a friend one who can always be there, through trials and joys? And yet, who can have a friend like this? Is it possible to have a 'best friend' in this world? We may all say, "I have a best friend....and yet...." What is the yet....? I have had many best friends in the past, and were they were all friends? Yes, there are many great friends, and we come across many people who are very special to us. They bring a great part of life with them and are brought by the Lord for a special reason and need. A friend is one who sharpens the other. "Our friendship is like a china glass. Once broken, it becomes even stronger and unbreakable the next time 'round." A beautiful and very true quote. Something all of us need to hear. I want that quote to be true, but is it? At times we may hang on to a friend a bit too much, clinging to this person because, perhaps they have something which we don't have, and we want it to. I can recall a time when I did this myself. I had just moved from TX to IL and I had to leave my best friend. I was saddened and did not want to go through the pain and knowing that I could no longer see her again. For about 2 full years, I was on strong contact with my friend, talking, emailing and sending letters ALL the time. It wasn't until I noticed that the Lord struck my head with a lightening bolt (as to say) and said, "Vanessa, the friendship you are holding at the moment is not quite right. You're life has been centered around this girl a bit too much." I did not want to believe it, I did not want to hear it. I wanted to ignore those words all because I knew that it was a friend I never ever had. I wanted to just walk away and continue the so called "cool" friendship I thought I was having.

Soon enough, as we all know, if the Lord does not get through us through His words, then He'll bring a situation around where we WILL get it! Nonetheless, I was confronted with a moment where I noticed, "Ok God, you're so true and right!" The friendship which my friend gave me was great, I needed it at the moment. God placed this young lady in my life for a great reason and I'm ever so thankful for it. It was a blessing because I was often down through the two years of my first years in a new state. She was strong enough and held me up. However, the Lord opened my eyes and ears recently to know that the times over here are getting better and I am not leaning upon this friend anymore because it is over. God brought yet another time when my friend was not here and I had no other choice, and I immediately turned my heart to God, and since then I have experienced the moment of making GOD my best friend. I have always heard this and nonetheless, never understood how this could be. How could God be my 'best friend'? He's great, but can that really be? Oh sure enough, it is so very true! I have never had a friend so great as He. He restores my soul, he encourages me when I'm down, and raises me up.

It is God, He is my friend, my all time friend, now and forever! It's an indescribable friendship, a friendship which no man or woman can ever fulfil. My definition of a best friend is thus, "GOD!" One who is there at ALL times, and one who will NEVER leave me alone. He's my comforter and my strength. Yes, God does give us earthly friends, but that friend can never fill that empty space within us. Times change, and we all change. I have noticed many, many changes throughout the past two years in myself and my friend, especially. Although, God is a God who never changes, he was the same yesterday, the same today, and will be the same tomorrow! Even arguments often can arise, and the friends may be angry at each other. We both are just babes in Christ, and at the same level of understanding, and do not always know why things happen. However, God is FAR above and will make me understand, because he knows why!

The Bible does say that there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother, and I personally believe that, that friend is none else but God Himself! Now, do not misunderstand me, God does bring great people into our lives, and they are there for sometimes only a short amount of time, or perhaps forever. In addition, our family, and God are the foremost. They come before anyone else. They will be there forever, and can help us, because they truly love us. God is a God of love, and correction. There are a number of things my friend and I do not agree on, and some of those things do sadly come between us. It is a matter of setting things out, and sometimes it never works out again. Should we let go of this person? This is a question that I myself cannot answer at the moment. I would be more than glad if some of you can and then you can leave me a comment. We should turn our hearts to God, our thoughts, and our words to Him. Go to Him first for a problem or question. He is the only one who can answer it. And it may be that he will answer it through another man or woman.

God is my choice of a best friend, he can be yours too. It is a matter of clinging onto that which is pure and right. He will NEVER lead you astray and will correct you if you do get off the road! A good friend will correct you too, and yet, we often do not take that correction because we may have a pride issue. The Lord can work through each one of us, no matter what! The quote I mentioned in the beginning of this post, refers back to GOD. He gives me a friendship which is unbreakable! As some of you may see, a lot of what I have just said is still a great confusion to me, and yet I know that God is the ultimate friend.

Robert E. Lee, a General in Chief of the Confederate armies once said, "Never do a wrong thing to make a friend or to keep one."

If I have gone off on any of this, please do leave me comment! I'm open to hear your opinions!!!

Determined to do EVERYTHING!

2009-04-23T16:33:00.006-05:00

This past week I have been going through a lot, and the characteristic, determination, has been popping through my mind constantly! I will either go through a moment of not feeling like doing anything, or have a problem in life or school thus, I will be reminded by an inner voice from God..."DETERMINATION!"

What is determination by the way? It is the common phrase of what we hear often, "Never give up!" I came across a quote by a man named Armin Gesswein, "When God is about to do something great, He starts with a difficulty. When He is about to do something truly magnificent, he starts with an impossibility." That is truly amazing, whatever is going on in life at the moment, remember that quote. God is working either in your life, or in the life of someone else.

Don't ever say, "I can't do this!" or, "I don't want to anymore!" Oswald Chambers once said, "When I say 'I can't,' it means 'I won't." Heads up, and remember, God is looking for the one with a heart of determination, not faintheartedness! A full and whole heart is what he is expecting from us!

Why Wholeheartedness Is Important

2009-04-17T14:32:00.004-05:00

Why is wholeheartedness so important? What is the point of doing things wholeheartedly? Why not do the job with just half of the heart, and unwillingly? Will it really matter? What is the purpose? Does God really command us to do everything with a whole heart? Many questions do arise and many will buckle within us, because we will often try to get out of the task assigned to us with a good excuse. However, the consequence of doing things unwillingly may lead into a big disaster. Doing everything with an attitude of love and enthusiasm, will paint the picture in a total different way, plus we will save time from having to re-due the project. Everything acquires time, nevertheless, when we do something with a different perspective of willingness, than the job being done will succeed. It is a choice of our own to make, are we willing to do everything with a whole heart? Or are we just going to waste the time and do things without a purpose and care? God does care about our heart. He does mind if we do everything with joy, or with a grudge. He is interested in every aspect of out life. There are only 86,400 seconds in a day. That may seem like a lot, and yet it all depends on how each second is spent. There may be a job approved just for us which we necessarily will not like. Nevertheless, that does not matter. The point is, we should do everything; either a high job or the lowest job there is with excitement and with a sincere attitude. Men and women daily are creating destruction all over because they cannot focus and seem to set the job with a grateful attitude. We are all causing more work for ourselves because we choose to do things the hard way, of doing it only 99 percent. Even that one percent counts to make it be a complete whole heart. Everything has a start, and the Lord wants us to be faithful in the job he gave us. If we cannot prove others and especially God that we will do it wholeheartedly, that do not ever think you can possibly receive a higher job. If it comes hard to you to do something with a complete heart, that ask God to help you. After all, we should do everything to the glory of God, and not man. Lastly, wholeheartedness has the definition of, fully or completely sincere! It is your choice, to either take the job with thankfulness and do it to the 100 percent mark or do it unwillingly with only a 99 percent or less endurance. Believing it or not, that one percent does count!

"Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God!"

1 Corinthians 10:31

Prayer counts!

2009-04-10T19:01:00.002-05:00

This past week has been a very busy and crazy week just as usual. Although, as I went through this week I noticed something different. I didn't just go through the week like normally, nevertheless I went through it with a different mind and perspective. I will lately see people I come across with perhaps while just walking down the street or even driving down the street with a watchful eye and a caring eye. I have never had this sort of feeling before, a feeling of sympathy for each and every person. I was outside earlier this evening watching my siblings play a soccer game. As I stood in the cool breeze I saw cars come and go. People walking and talking. Yesterday as I went out with my brother I came across many different and yet unfamiliar faces. As I walk by these people or face these people I think about them for about one second and the next moment I am in a prayer. God will lay a man, woman, or child on my heart out of the moment and I have such a desire and prompting to pray for them. It is mostly just a minute prayer of, "God, I don't know this person, and I have no clue of what is bothering them. Although, you know it all and I pray that if he/she does not know you that you WILL come into their life!" I can be talking on the phone, or talking to someone and I will stop and just pray for a second. Sometimes I'll say, "But God, I don't know what to pray for?" However, the very next moment I find myself within a prayer and a compassion for this soul. Who knows if that person God laid on my heart wakes up tomorrow morning? Or if they make it home safely? God has specifically told me to do this and who knows if my prayer made a difference today. Pray for the brokenhearted, for the lost, and for the blinded. They are going into this world with no purpose and thus will try to make a smile at you and deep down they're hurting! Your prayer which comes from God will MAKE a difference.

"My 24 Minute Survey"

2009-03-30T17:16:00.002-05:00

This quiz was sent to me by my good friend, (Letter From Christ). It took me a while to get it up Allison, but sure enough, it's up now! :) The longest survey you'll ever fill out! Do the world a favor: fill it out and post it for all your friends. Do this because the person who sent it to you didn't sit here for ages for nothing. Answer all the questions honestly, no lying to avoid stuff.

Starting Time: 4:48PM
Name: Vanessa
Sisters: 1
Brothers: 3
What are you wearing? Navy hoodie, black skirt, a purity ring, my birthstone ring, bracelet, white socks, and my hair is in a messy bun!
Favorite Number: probably 20
Favorite Drink: Hot chocolate for the winter; Lemonade for the summer
Favorite Month: December for the winter; June for the summer
Favorite Breakfast: something quick, like a slice of bread or some fruit, I don't care for breakfast that much.
Love someone so much who made you cry? Oh yes! Where do I even start....
Broken a bone: Wow, to actually think of how crazy I am, no I haven't!
Been in a police car: Yep!
Been on a boat? Yes
Came close to dying: Oh yeah, I have! I always forget about that but when I think of it, it's true! I was only 10 months too!
Been in a hot tub: yes, in the middle of August! :O
Swam in the ocean: Oh, I love the ocean! Especially in southern TX.
Fallen asleep in school: Haha, yeah. I've actually tried to doze off, but I always get a kick and wake back up.
Cried when someone died: Yeah. :( I don't like that type of crying.
Fallen off your chair: yes

***********What is****************

Your room like? Bright, clean (at times), two beds, a nightstand, a big dresser, books, bible, and my violin case!
What’s right beside you? A lamp, and the printer.
What is the last thing you ate? a grape

--------------------------Ever Had--------------------------------

Chicken pox: Oh yes! I had the real bad ones when I was 2. Full of puss and...ow, it hurts just thinking of, I'm getting all itchy!
Sore throat: Oh I HATE those!
Stitches: Yep, right on my forehead.

-------------------Do You------------------------------------

Like picnics? Um, I guess if they're gonna be with great friends and on a nice calm day. No wind!
Like School? I enjoy the fact that it keeps me busy and smart, but I don't like the fact of Chemistry, Algebra and Geometry, and to mention the long hours!

------------------------Questions----------------------------------------
Who was the last person you danced with? My dog Buddy! :)
Who makes you smile? Oh golly, anyone, everywhere! I just gotta look at someone and I'll smile already!

--------------------------Who---------------------------------------------
Who Did you last yell at? Huh, probably Alec or Noah? They weren't listening, but that's not a reason is it?!
Do you like filling these out? When I have time. Although, I have so many posts I have in mind, so now this counts as one and the others have to wait. It's fine though.
Do you like yourself? Well, who doesn't? I don't always like myself though. Especially when I mess up.

-------------------Final Questions---------------------------
What are you listening to right now? The Christian radio, Alec and Noah playing, and myself typing.
Do you hate someone in your family? Oh my gosh! What a question. Let me remind you of that passage in 1 John 2:11, But he that hateth his brother is in darkness, and walketh in darkness, and knoweth not whither he goeth, because that darkness hath blinded his eyes.
What car do you wish to have? I don't really care, anything that drives me from point A to point B.
Good singer? Um, not really. Some people think so, just ask my brother Alec.
Indoors or outdoors? Oh man, the outdoors are soooo beautiful. You can have freedom and the chance to breath some fresh air instead of the stuffy air inside. I'm able to dance freely, so outside for sure! In the summer, that is! :)

----------------------------Today did you------------------------------
1. Talk to someone you like? Duh, I live with six people. And I love each and every one of them.
2. Get sick? nope, thank goodness!
3. Sing? Oh yeah, of course.
4. Miss someone? Sure I do! There's a number of people on my mind right now.

--------------------------Last person who---------------------------
7. You talked to on the phone with? My dad
8. Made you cry? The Holy Spirit
9. Went to the mall with? Wow, the last time was with Erica, Marc, Alec, and Noah, that was loooooooong ago.
10. Been to Europe? Yes...to Germany
11. Been to Asia? Nope
12. Been to Russia? Nah
13. Been to the Bahamas? Oh gosh, no!
14. Been to Mexico? No, but I would LOVE to
15. Been to Canada? I'm quite close to Canada! But never have been there.
16. Been to Africa? No, but it would be cool to have that great experience

----------------Random-----------------------
17. What books are you reading right now? Bible, Selected Stories, Madita, Florence Nightingale, and Uncle Tom's Cabin
18. Best feeling in the world? Having people love me, and having the best friend ever, Jesus Christ!
19. Future kid's name? I want many, many children. But I have a few names which I really want too. Chandler and Aubry for sure! My future husband must love those names! :)
20. Do you sleep with a stuffed animal? haha, no.
21. What's under your bed? Nothing, just another bed connected to my bed.
22. Favorite location? Home, Grandma and Grandpa's home, Sis and Gene's home, and the Melugin's home! :)
23. Who do you really hate? Satan for sure!
24. Do you have a job? Being a sister, daughter, servant for the Lord, granddaughter, and friend.
25. Are you lonely right now? Never am!
Time Finished: 5:12PM

With however long it took you to complete this, post as"My _ Minute Survey"

If you have the time, please do this! I'd love to read your answers. I'm not gonna tag anyone, but just do it if you want--just make sure to leave me a comment so I know you've done it! :)

Who is in control?

2009-03-29T12:50:00.005-05:00

Yesterday morning as I checked the weather for the weekend I was shocked and surprised to find out that we were going to suspect snow! The last week in March, come on, that just gotta be a mistake. So, the day went on and it was soooo cold and big thick clouds, I began to think otherwise, and then came to the conclusion, "Hold it, the weatherman said nothing of this in the beginning of the week!" Although, I then noticed and realized that, "OK, Mr. Weatherman thinks he has complete control of the weather, because they guessed about 5 inches of snow at the most, and none more." Shockingly, I woke up this morning with about 8 inches of more of snow in my front yard. Let's look at this from a different perspective, "Who is in charge of the weather again?" The weatherman or God? Perhaps just because the weatherman says so or anyone else says something, we believe it. I always get a kick out of it when God decides total opposite.Maybe we don't get a call or letter from God saying this will happen, and people will warn us, but then their warning was wrong, and this is when we have to turn back and look at God, who has it all in his hands.

Once again, the snow storm which poured down last night brought me to think once again how God has complete power and absolute control of everything. All the snowplows were not prepared for this, because they believed that it was never gonna snow this much! Hello, are we forgetting who is in control of this world? Not man, nevertheless God. The one above has complete charge and rule over it all. Why should we listen to the people with the more knowledge, we often listen to too much of their smartness, and our focus gets off that Christ can make it snow today and have 100 degree temperature tomorrow. Amen. Too many people these days are trying to assume and make way to many predictions, nonetheless, we need to give God the plate and realize that it is not our making and not our plans. Whatever you want oh God!

"...which is the head of all principality and power." Colossians 2:10(b)

Using my eyes for a purpose!

2009-03-24T16:11:00.003-05:00

Oh boy, this blog is getting neglected!

I have a short story which occurred last night, and as I was thinking this morning in school I also have a great way to post around the story, so sit back and enjoy my life last night!

Last night I went to orchestra practice. It happens to be that my family is always late for almost everything there seems to be. So, I had practice and sure enough, I was about 10 minutes late. Most of the time I will walk through the band room door which is located outside for the person who takes me can see. Nevertheless, since I was late, I had to walk through the main school doors into the band room located at the back of the school. However, before all that took place, my brother dropped me off outside on the parking lot and there I went walking off to the entrance door. Although, the moment we entered the parking lot, I noticed to my left that there were two teenage guys who were hanging out on the wall. Now, just as the normal human does, I automatically looked at their outward appearance and I saw they way they were dressed and how their actions and moods were like. I was scared and frightened a tad, all because of the fact that I was walking their alone. So, I got out of the car and saw another young man who goes to the orchestra, and I caught up with him, all because I did not want to walk by those doors and into the entrance alone! As I walked by, with the other young man a few feet ahead of me, I could hear the two teens who were by the door whispering and saying a few phrases about me. Did that run the chills down me or what!? I prayed as I walked by those guys and actually was probably voicing a prayer out loud. I stepped into the building and I immediately felt God's presence all over me and his protection surrounding me.

Now, this is what I'm going to tie around this story. The moment I entered the driveway, I knew that I had to practice the act of alertness. If I would of purposefully walked by those guys carelessly, I could of gotten into some serious danger and mess. God at once gave me the wisdom and his eyes so that I could see the danger around me. The Lord does this amazingly and so beautifully and he gives us all the wisdom and alertness we need in order to act wisely and live our life with protection. Last night I once again noticed how evil this world is and how so many youngsters want to purposefully hurt others. I'm not positively sure if these guys wanted to do some harm, although, I had enough wisdom to be on the look out, to practice alertness and act aware just in case.

God gives us a mind and eyes to see around us. Our eyes have a purpose, God placed them for a reason. I learned a lesson last night. Even though nothing dangerous occurred, I was brought to the fact that living my life on this world is not to be done carelessly and wastefully, although with caution and the major aspect which I learned, with alertness. Jesus is alert at all times. Last night he was on the watch for his little girl, bringing me into that building with me in his arms. He was not going to let me go alone, because I'm never alone.

Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee. 1 Timothy 4:16

I WANNA be FAT...don't you?

2009-03-14T16:25:00.005-05:00

OK, if you read the title of this post, then you're probably thinking, "WHAT?" Who wants to BE fat? Let me explain what I'm saying. I heard a few days ago while listening to a sermon online, Being fat in the term I'm talking about means:

Faithful
Available
Teachable

So, as a Christian, we ALL want to be FAT! We want to be faithful stewards, available 24/7 to Jesus, and teachable that HE can teach us ANYTHING we need to know. We NEED to have a teachable spirit, not blocking what God is going to tell us, or perhaps IS telling us. Be free any moment of the day, and yes, I'm guilty of that too.

Who wants to be FAT now?!

The White Paper CAN Remain!

2009-03-10T16:08:00.002-05:00

What is my excuse this time for not posting? Perhaps saying that being a Junior in High School is crazy!

I have had a very busy weekend and another wild start to this week as well. I had my first concert in my orchestra. It was very fun! All the hard work, and all the many hours and afternoons/evenings of practicing all paid off. As I was sitting there on Sunday afternoon, and just studying over the music, playing it all the way through for the very first time and feeling good about it, my mind was stable. It was quiet, relaxed, and in the moment of nothing. It actually felt so good. I did not notice that until the very end when all the thoughts which were gone for about 40 minutes came back. It was a clear picture up in my brain. It was as if you have a blank white sheet of paper. But when you take that paper and draw a few pictures, words, sentences, equations, and perhaps a few people, it is of course all filled up once more. That is how the mind works.

For a time, my mind was quite calm and thinking of things which were only important to me, or about situations which occurred that hour or possibly day. The white paper was filled with only a few and certain images. It was as if I turned older and that paper which was covered with few pictures, filled up more and more, thoughts of which I should possibly turn off. Although, often our mind is weak. As with me, my mind is hard to control. And yet I know Jesus has control of it all. It is when I allow to take things in my own hands and when then Satan finds a little passage way to fill it up with dirty imaginings. That void paper in the beginning of life slowly gets more and more congested with either clean and pure things, or sadly, impure and immorality. It is the beginning of sin and sometimes I like to think of certain things because it gives me only a little pleasure for some time, and then when it gets to far, it begins to hurt and dig down within my heart. It is not the right kind of pleasure, it is of the world.

A normal sized white paper can fill up with a lot of scribblings. Give it a try, get a pencil and mark all over it, put whatever you want on it, or just make long, sloppy slashes. Look at it now, it's full of pencil markings, and yet worse, it is dark and looks dirty. If you slide your hand over it, it will leave a dark shade of led. Next, if you were to take your hand which has some color from the led and wipe it on your clothes, it will stay, and possibly stain it if not washed off immediately. This here, is just how our mind works. We take a whole lot of thoughts into our mind. Whether it be about family issues, clothes, school, homework, friends, relationships, boys/girls, and the list can go on and on. So many things are thought of daily, and it just stays in our mind. If we allow it to happen, dirty and sinful things will then arise and captivate itself up there as well. It's no longer white, it's beginning to look just like that piece of paper, it's the exact duplicate. Those thoughts come into the heart, everything starts there. Then those thoughts will soon rub off onto others we come across, and then leave them with a shade of the dirt as well. It begins to feel comfortable up there and soon we do not even realize what is right to think of or not.

Jesus is the one who can wipe away that stain and shade of black dirt. He will wash it as clean and white as snow. Purely and beautifully he does this. If we allow the thoughts to take complete charge over us, it will stain our whole body, although it is never to late to let Jesus in and have him clean it all up. Would you rather be clothed in a stainless white shirt? Or a white shirt which is beginning to have holes, paint, ink stains and is bearing small rips at the bottom of the seam? It is your choice, allow Jesus to take of that mind of yours, washing it with his blood, or keeping the mind which is full of filth, a mind which cannot rest because it is constantly thinking of immorality? Which will you choose?

What can wash away my sin?
Nothing but the blood of Jesus;
What can make me whole again?
Nothing but the blood of Jesus!

Oh! precious is the flow
That makes me white as snow;
No other fount I know,
Nothing but the blood of Jesus!

What am I doing here GOD?

2009-02-28T09:53:00.005-06:00

Where have I been?

I ask myself that question, and can I answer it...? Yep! I have been busy. Busier than busy. I've had a lot of homework lately, so it's pulling me back from other things I can do. I had a friend ask me last night, "Vanessa, when are you going to get a post up?" I couldn't answer, I just mentioned, "Been busy!"

Well, what should I post about? I got two awards. Both of them from a good friend. I've been debating if I should post them up or not, because I really want to write a post where it'll touch a few of you. I can tell you about my life, all my issues daily, all my struggles, all the hardships, all the joys, yeah what about some positive things for a change!?! :) However, I believe I will post a question and allow y'all to give you answer. Hm, although, what should I ask? I'm pretty skeptical this morning. I'm not so sure what this post should be about. My mind lately isn't here, it's in another world. Going off. I have been in prayer and thoughts more than anything. At times I'll have someone come up and ask, "Hey, are you o.k.?" There's just so much going on, that prayer is the only thing which keeps me up and going. Literally, prayer IS the only thing that allows me to go at times. Sometimes I feel like throwing the towel. Or at times, I just want to get away from this world, take all my loved ones, join hands, and run away from all the problems.

Problems? Struggles? Issues? Hardships? What about happiness? Is there any in my life? Oh, of course there is. There is joy each and everyday. And yet, have you realized, that the negatives will most of the time try to out rule all the positives? Yes, that is often my case. I live in the third largest city in America, this is a very liberal city. The WHOLE America is liberal. Very worldly and dead. Not knowing where to go. I'm just trying to find my way. Asking God to give me all the answers. Because, these roads never end, they just go on, and I want to GO home to my God and I want him to take me out of this world. I may have just got out of balanced. Yes, I am crazy, I'm weird. The way I live my life is considered weird to so many I come across. So many Christians believe that, "God is my Savior (true), now I'm safe (true), and nothing, no hardships will EVER arise (false). " I used to believe this. God is full of compassion, and if I do this sin, and now I realize it he'll forgive me. Yes, very true. And yet, I love to do that particular sin so much, that I'm going to try just doing it once more, in moderation. Well, then you find yourself in it all the way and you once again, "God, I'm sorry!" O.K., we continue this, going on and on. God, I'm soooo sorry. There will come a time where God will HAVE enough. Then what? I find myself telling many this, "Get on your knees, quit your foolish sin, and quit believing GOD is a GOD full of love. He is, and yet HE wants us to realize and quit the sin.

I still find myself complaining too much. Or thinking of certain things WAY too much. I have got burned in this world so much-just like the rest of us. Some more than others. Some of the sins I have committed in the past and I can't even tell some. I'm too ashamed to voice it all. I have changed now, I'm not who I was back then. However, many times I STILL find myself trapped into thinking, "God, why can't these sins get out of my life?" How much longer will you tolerate it? Punish me God! I have got slapped in the head a few times by God (not literally), but he has opened my eyes to all the wrong doings I do and did. He made me realize, that HE IS the Lord. He's the famous one, he's the greatest one! He is pure of all sin. He has made me come to sense that he placed me in the 21st century, whether I always like it or not. I'm not sure if you ever get thoughts of, "I want to just get away from all this WORLDLY, deadly, sinful, disgusting, nasty, place!" If I can't even walk outside to my mailbox without getting attacked, then what use is it? Why am I here God?

I've been wounded in many battles. I have been hurt many times. It sometimes amazes me how GOD still loves me. His love is forever. Through the good and bad. Do I love everyone? Hm, that's a hard one. I like some people more than others. Oh, that's wrong, right? But how can I love everyone in this world? They hate me. Because I'm part of Christ. They despise me. Girls my age make fun of me. God, how can I love them? He carries me through it all. He guides me and always brings me back to reality, and to have the gift of LOVE for everyone. This is what God is teaching me, "Love the person Vanessa, and hate their sin!" Oh, that is SO hard. At times I struggle with, "Why do I have to BE so different?" A beautiful answer comes back, "Because of me, you are free, because of me you have the gift of eternal life, because of me your sins are forgiven! Because you LOVE me and know that your life can't be without ME!" Wow, God, you're so true. Why don't I always see this? Because I'm confused. This world tempts us. It wants us to believe in the lies. To fall down and away. Have I fallen down before? Oh yes. It hurt. It hurt not only me, but my family, my best friend, and my God. Through all this do I have the strength to go on? Yes. Shockingly and yet true, I do. Because God reigns in my life. Just as he always tells me, "You're mine Vanessa, my child, my beloved daughter, and I will carry you through EVERYTHING!"

And it's all because of Jesus that I'm here. Going through the streets of Chicago brings me to him. Going through any store I have by my side, because I need him there most. As I'm getting older, this world will try to wrap itself around me more and more. Trying to choke me within everyone else. Will I accept this? NO! If I wasn't so close to the LORD, then perhaps I would fall in the cracks. But I know that the strings between my God and I are not lose, they are strong. Stronger than strong! I guess I got my post up!

In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him. Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. 1 John 4:9-10

Maiden of Purity is one year old!

2009-02-18T19:00:00.004-06:00

ONE YEAR OLD!

Well, it looks like my blog has hit its first birthday! I can't believe it myself, I have made the year mark of one year. I don't even know how to thank all of you who have become frequent visitors to my blog. For all the comments, and the lovely encouraging words you have left me. I appreciate it very much. This year went by so fast. I have posted 102 posts in one year. I have developed a friendship over my blog with a very kind like minded girl. Many wonderful things have occurred this year. As I begin my second year with this blog, I pray that the words God gives me will be of help and guidance to your life. I have enjoyed having this blog, many of the posts are insights God has given me during my devotions in the peek of daylight, or throughout the day. I have a friend, and she says my blog is the high light of her day. I would of never guessed this. God has blessed this blog, I gave it to him, on the very first post. I pray that this blog will be his, and he will bless it.

I hope to go on for another year, another year of 102 posts. To have new visitors, and yet to keep God's word marked all over. Thanks for visiting and for taking your time for Maiden of Purity.

And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:7

Keep your eyes focused on Christ, and all your ways will be blessed. Every aspect in your life according to HIS will!

How can I deal with persecution?

2009-02-16T09:02:00.006-06:00

There's something great about President's day...no school!

Alright, I still have my other post which I started on Saturday February 7 to continue. As I mentioned, I have many other posts to post about. I have many things I WANT to share with y'all, however, I never get the chance to get on and do it. That's why I'm happy about no school today!

OK, I left off on my other post here:

"Dude, look at them!"
"What, you have a problem with them?"
"No, but, look, they dress weird!"
"Oh, you have a problem with them wearing skirts? Huh, is that it?"
"No, I did not say that!"
"Who cares, just leave it!"

And then my final words were....To be continued.

Here now is going to be the continuing story. I was talking about the average style of youth these days. How they all dress the same, fix their hair the same way, and so forth. After that 1 minute conversation went on above which my friend and I overheard, she was literally speechless and quite angry too. I gave her the look which gives the impression, "Leave it!" In a church many wouldn't think conversations or situations occur such as this. Well, let me tell you, if you believe that, then you're wrong. Lets make things straight first, churches these days are different then they were back in the 18th century. Churches have changed. The youth come from all different backgrounds. When I heard those young guys speak about us in such a way, I wasn't ticked in anyway at all, I actually felt God with me and I had peace all over me. At that moment, my mind was made up not to get boiled about anything. Anyone could of said anything about me and it would of been fine. It was just a sign to me that anyone around us will persecute us. This normally is not me. I usually get angry fast and will go up to any and tell them. Well, God did a mighty work that night. I was thinking and just actually saying to myself, "God, you brought me here, I'm fine, and I won't dress nor act any other way then what I'm doing at the moment. You have told me to do this, if they want to condemn me, if they want to do it all, then fine. I'm going to act and dress according to your standards. Your standards are WAY higher than these guys, and most certainly than this world. I'm in this world Lord, but not of this world!"

Now, we can get persecuted in all ways. I have gone through it many times, sometimes it goes on every single day. However, you know why I don't mind it anymore, because it is showing me how I'm following my God more and more. Strangers are beginning to notice it. To me, that is a blessing. I have had a particular person once say, "I hate you!" Well, the normal human would strike back with harsh words, and fierce actions. Yes, I did that, but in the midst of my actions I realized what I was doing, it was as if the Lord pricked my heart right then and I immediately changed my attitude to a loving, kind, and spoke words of kindness. "Those who hate and persecute us: we endure it and return good for evil!" Wow, that is hard. Believe me. Literally, I would rather tell the person all the words in my mouth at the moment. Tell them everything evil I can think of. Although, what do you think that will do? It will just stir up more and more anger in the other and they will continue to fight back as well. This will go on and on, and on. It takes one to stop it with kind words. Instead of fighting back, try to calm the fight with calm words. This is hard, but with Christ nothing is impossible.

“… Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you” (Matthew 5:44).

Hard, it's very, very hard! I have had people tell me, "Why do you act the way you do? Why do you dress the way you do? Why do you still love me when I hurt you? Why don't you have a boyfriend?" These things don't bother me, what bothers me is when I tell them my point and they come back mocking me over and over for doing the things I do. However, this is no reason to burn up and then continue from there. I have in the past walked away if they continue to just mock back. "Those who defame us and despitefully use us: we entreat and pray for!" What, how can I do that? I want to do all the bad to this person. They deserve all the hurtful words! No. No, they do not. We would not be showing our Christian attitude, our loving actions. I know, this is easier said then done. Ask God to give you a loving heart towards others. Give me a heart of compassion, oh God. I have said many bad things to certain people in the past, because they hurt me. I wanted to hurt them back. I shot back with words. How I want to go back to that person and ask for forgiveness. I pray to God and ask him to bring this person back into my life so that I may show how sorry I feel. I have learned to bless my enemies, and love those that persecute me. It doesn't always work that way. I'm still working on this. Many times, these people can be our siblings. We still need to reply with love.

“Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven” (Matthew 18:21–22).

Forever and ever. Let everyone persecute you. Let them all say wicked things against you. Only, you turn back with kind actions. If you hear others speak behind your back, don't think hurtful things, and imagine wicked actions. Pray to God to help you stay calm and only walk away or turn to the one who spoke hurtful words and speak with love.

Oh my goodness...it came!

2009-02-13T18:43:00.007-06:00

GUESS WHAT?

AMAZING!

I MADE THE MARK!

IT'S NO LONGER TWO DIGITS!

I HAVE MADE IT ALL THE WAY TO #100 posts!

100!

100!

100!

I made it!!!

There is just something so amazing with the #100!? It took me almost a year to get to this number! It's BIG news with a BIG number!

50 facts about myself!

2009-02-11T16:46:00.007-06:00

I have soooo many posts to put up. So much has been on my mind lately. I have good news and bad news. Lots of updates and just things going here and there. I got tagged by two girls, Lydia (Day by Day) and Allison (Letter From Christ). I am not able of doing the tag Lydia tagged me with (sorry), but I can do Allison's. Hm, I also have to continue my previous post. You see, life goes by so fast and we all don't even realize it. Ok, first things first. I'm going to get the tag Allison did and then I will continue the previous post. School life has been rough and long. Each day seems longer and longer. Alright, I can be here all evening and complain and just talk about all the problems and things that are going on, or I can get this post through with!?

Rules are: Try to come up with 50 facts about yourself as you can. If you're tagged you must try to do it! Its o.k. if you don't make it all the way to 50. You may use things from previous tags. Just have fun!

This will be interesting...I have a lot of 50 facts about myself. Don't get bored half way through.

1. I'm Mexican, German, and Texan (if that counts)
2. Jesus Christ is my best friend!
3. I have had about 10 best friends (other than Christ) in my life!
4. I'm a neat freak
5. I was a vegan for 6 years!
6. I have moved about 6 times
7. I'm graduating from high school in June 2010!
8. I have had the same color for many years-green
9. I despise bees!
10. I play in an orchestra with adults 30 or something years older than myself!
11. I dislike pink with all my heart!
12. I'm not girly at all!
13. I do not like to dress up...comfy is my style
14. I have straightened my hair only three times
15. I can't stand baking
16. I love the country...don't like the city
17. I love to email (check more than once a day)
18. I don't like TV-only certain movies at times
19. I turn the music up loud when I'm home alone, or with my siblings
20. K-LOVE is my favorite all time radio station
21. I laugh more than anything (sometimes)
22. I have flown in an airplane about 10 times
23. The words and phrases "Dude" "Oh my gosh" "y'all" and "What" is what I say all the time.
24. I don't like to play board games
25. Doing laundry is annoying
26. I have a friend who is in her 40's, her and I hit it off really well!!
27. I want to be a midwife
28. I pray many times throughout the day
29. I'm a people person
30. My name means butterfly so some people call me, "Social butterfly!"
31. I love to throw things we don't us anymore away or give it away!
32. I love getting mail
33. Tennis is my favorite sport, then basketball
34. I love wearing flip-flops, they go with anything (practically)
35. I used to want to have a Doctors degree in music
36. If it's -20 degrees outside I need to have my fan running my room no matter what the degree is (weird)!
37. I have been baptized 3 times. Once when a baby, at six years old, and then again at 15. I wasn't serious at 6 yrs. old.
38. I used to dislike dogs, I love them now!
39. I always have my hair up. Only on certain occasions will it be down
40. I'm not fair, and I still get bad burns in the summer!
41. When I was small I used to want to be a Meteorologist
42. I want many children, as many as the Lord gives
43. I haven't seen my grandma in 5 years
44. I don't like Valentines day
45. My faith is Christian, none other. Christ is the best ever! Try him out!
46. I have one best friend now, she's my encourager when I'm down!
47. I share a room with a cute little girl-my sister!
48. When I have children someday, I want a boy named Chandler
49. The Lord has saved me from many hardships
50. My blog is almost 1 year old!!

Phew, I'm done! Wow! I am going to try to post some more this week. I have a lot more to get up.

Why are we mocked?

2009-02-07T11:53:00.004-06:00

How many of you feel disgusted by this world and the people's behavior? How many of you feel that you can't even step outside of your own front door without having dart thrown straight at you? Is this you? Do you even get persecuted by family? Or from church friends? Have you ever acted differently around those who do just so you can fit in with their style? Do you dress different around youth your age who are of this world? Do you take their style?

About two weeks my friend and I went to this youth group. That was the first time I ever went to a youth group in my entire high school years. I stepped in that room and it did not take but 1 minute for me to realize that all the girls fix their hair the exact same way, they all wear the same clothes, jeans. They act the same way, they talk the same way, they walk the same way, they do everything the same way. The makeup has to be put on in a certain way. The jeans have to be in style, all the clothes need to be fashionable, and yet, my friend needs to wear it, many say. I then switched my eyes over to the guys. Yes, they did the same thing. All of them had the same shaggy hair style. The jeans which are baggy, and yet consumed a few holes. Hearing their voice was all cloned, their behavior was so similar and the way they walked was identical! Why is that? Why do they all do this? Most of the teens are inferior about themselves. They don't know what is right. They just follow everyone else. If you pay close attention they will not take the first step into anything because they feel shy and everyone is watching them. If one teen does not follow this trend of actions and dress you will get looked upon differently. I know, I have been in that situation a few times. Listen to my story.

Two weeks ago, as I was saying, my friend and I walked into a youth department. We dressed just as the usual day and yet neatly. We both were wearing skirts and boots. Our hair was not like everyone else, it is modern, but not straightened just like everyone else, it was left in it's natural curl. So, I now just gave you a slight glimpse of our appearance that evening. We walked in there with confidence and as well as being slightly timid. As we were walking around we both overheard a conversation going on between two guys, I'm saying they were my age (16). I slightly heard a little more than my friend, but she herself was already getting heated! One of the guys was going against us whereas the other was one defending us.

"Dude, look at them!"
"What, you have a problem with them?"
"No, but, look, they dress weird!"
"Oh, you have a problem with them wearing skirts? Huh, is that it?"
"No, I did not say that!"
"Who cares, just leave it!"

To be continued...

Spreading the Gospel to anyone!

2009-02-03T17:48:00.008-06:00

Ok, just like I said, this post will be about, "How do I start a simple conversation with a nonbeliever and switch it over to the gospel?" Now, I'm not an expert in this because I don't practice it as much as I should, but with the Lord's help I'm going to make it my #1 topic this New Year! I'm really determined, and as February has come already, I'm going to get busy very quickly. It's all in the Lord's hand. Daily we come across people, Christians and non-Christians. These people are all over. It's time to switch over and not wait for these people to come up to us, but for us to go and approach them. But how, you may ask? How will I do this? Is there an easier way to share the gospel and making it interesting to catch some one's eye? Of course! The Gospel itself is far more than interesting can ever be! Every time I hear someone spread it around I get the shills or just feel the Holy Spirit and get touched. It's the most wonderfulest news ever! Alright, but how can I start this conversation?

I bet many of you have heard about the Way of the Master? Well, if not, that's perfectly fine. It's this ministry between Kirk Cameron and Ray Comfort. They spread the gospel to those all around. The gang members, the drunkards, the prostitutes, everyone! After all, we all have something in common, each and everyone of us... WE'RE SINNERS! It takes a lot for many people to admit that they are wrong, and that they are bad. Romans 3:23 says, "For all have sinned, and fall short of the glory of God" This is true. Kirk Cameron and Ray Comfort have such a wonderful way of witnessing. It makes it interesting to the unbeliever and it breaks the ice quickly. They start off like this: "Do you consider yourself a good person?" Then the person answers. Have you ever lied, if so what does that make you? Have you ever stolen something? What do you call that? Have you ever lusted in your heart? And then, beautifully we can turn the conversation into speaking the truth. Many times it hurts the person when they finally realize how they have gone wrong all their life.

My mom once witnessed to 3 young men. We didn't know these guys and have never saw them again. Although, she followed those guide lines and she directed them to the gospel. It doesn't always mean that we right away lead the soul to Christ. It may take many weeks, or possibly years. However, we planted a seed, and then that seed will be watered and fed by someone else and then slowly it will begin to grow into a plant, and grow and grow. That tiny little seed isn't small anymore it has grown and is now a follower of Christ. You see, just a few words from your mouth can start that little seed to grow. It happened to my mom, and to thousands of you out there. Don't expect a person to change right away, pray for him/her and watch what the Lord can do. Many times it takes more than just a conversation.

Remember, the Lord is always with you, when witnessing to others, he's right by your side!

Go and wake up some one's heart, make them a follower and share with them the news someone shared with you! I love every soul and have a heart for them all. I don't want to lose a single soul. Sadly, many don't want to listen, that is for God to judge. We have tried, but constantly nudging and bugging the person won't get them no where! Give your best and place God always in the lead!

(This video is between Kirk Cameron and another man. It is a "Wake-up Call" for the man in the red shirt! It's very interesting and powerful!)

Why don't we witness?

2009-01-30T15:01:00.008-06:00

It looks like y'all had a hard time to choose which one was harder about the 3 questions I posted. Although, the majority of you chose #3, witnessing to the ones who aren't saved. Yes, that is very hard for me too. We all think, "Oh, I need to be able to hold a conversation. I don't know how to start. I get too nervous. I'm so busy right now Lord, why me, why not her or him. I'll do it later, or if you really want me to do this then bring the person to me." Do some of those remarks sound like yours? I have done this a few times. A guy or girl will walk by and I will purposely shut my eyes because I don't want to do this right now. It sounds awful, because it is awful! I have had so many opportunities to do so, but every time I make the next step butterflies enter my stomach or a big gulp enters my throat and I starting sweating and I say, "I'll do it next time." But, what if there isn't a next time? What if that next time were too late?

I had a really great chance to spread the gospel around 2 years ago. It was as if the Lord gave brought this person to me for that very reason. The most dumbest person could of guessed it. Did I do it, no! Oh, as I now look back, I'm ashamed more than anything. I was standing in a group of guys and one of them asked me, "You're different but cool, hey you're family and you are Christians, right?" All I said was, "Yeah." That right there was the perfect chance to tell this lost guy. Another scenario was with a young girl, I spoke the truth out. She was all ears, I did it for the first time and felt so good, I obeyed the Lord, I didn't ignore his voice this time, and nothing was going to stop me. Did she talk to me afterward? No, she didn't dare to face me, she felt convicted but sadly, didn't want to take the change. However, I did what the Lord wanted me to do. I really admire those who aren't shy about speaking about God. We shouldn't be, but why are we?

We are intimidated because most of us worry about what others thinks about us. Whether it be our clothes, appearance, attitude, actions, words, and the list goes on. A lot of teens don't even speak because they are afraid of getting embarrassed by the other peers. I have had it happen to me. I will get darts from all directions shooting at me, I can either run for safety, or call out to the Lord to help me and speak his words of wisdom. One of my New Year resolutions was to witness to anyone around me. We are going on the 31st day of this year and have I done it? Honestly I will tell you, no. No I have not. I am ashamed, what will take for us Christians? Romans 1:16 says: "For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. " That is the answer. What are we ashamed of, what will be our excuse now?

All over we hear about, "Be the light!" "Let your light shine!" Place this fish on your car so everyone will know you are a Christian! Yes, yes, and yes. We can do that, but speaking to the person is where I tongue goes -----. Blank. There's nothing in it when we want to do it. Did you actually know that when we don't witness to the lost we are disobeying Christ. It is our duty, we should do it with a full heart. Giving it all to him. "The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; and he that winneth souls is wise." (Proverbs 11:30) Jesus commanded us to go out make men, women, and children believers. If we don't set our mind to it now, we will never do it.

And Jesus came up and spoke to them, saying, "All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age." Matthew 28:18-20

God promises to be with us at all times. He will. Sometimes we feel alone, but no, he's by your side wherever you go. Sharing the gospel with lost ones will give God the glory and it will give us confidence and it will strengthen our walk with the great God. This is the best message ever. You may not even know how many are seeking for this message, to be loved by one such as Jesus. We are just too selfish and embarrassed perhaps to speak it out. Hold on with me, the next post will be "How do I start a simple conversation with a nonbeliever and switch it over to the gospel?"

Quick being scared or whatever your reason may be, we need more Christians, more followers of Christ. Winning souls brings us closer to the Lord and it will save a man, a woman, or a child, and possibly a gerneration from hell-from the evil!

My friendship!

2009-01-25T19:40:00.008-06:00

Hey y'all!

Thanks for all the previous comments. I really enjoyed looking and reading through each one. I will get my post up soon (the question with the most comments). As of now, I'm pretty busy, because my best friend came for a visit. We've been having a great time. Her friendship is just something I don't want to loose. If any of you have ever read Anne of the Green Gables, then you'll know about a friendship. Anne is definitely me, all the way through, and then Erica, my friend is Diana. It's pretty plain as day too see. It's amazing to have a family as I do, a God who I can trust and love, and then a friend who is loving, caring, encouraging, and raising you up. I have a video I want to share with y'all. Some may think it's a bit odd, because the movie "Lord of the Rings" is not what everyone believes, but I personally wanted to post it up. There's nothing violent or scary, it just shows a friendship even in a rough time. If none of you know the story, I'll give you a quick glimpse of who is who. Frodo is the one who has brown hair and is always looking burdened and Sam, his brave companion is the one in blond hair. They are going on a far journey to destroy a ring. That's all I'm going to give you. Erica is like Sam, raising me up when I'm down, either physically or mentally, and I'm, well, like Frodo. Even though they're guys, it's still shows many similarities. I have at the time an injured arm and my friend is being the one like Sam, raising me up! When I'm down and hurt, she'll raise her arm out and lift me up. She's a total Sam, brave, and yet is full of compassion. If she had too, I know she would even carry me (literally) and do the most to keep me strong and my face lifting high! She says, "It's fun to raise you up, Mr. Frodo (me)!" Take a look at the movie. And I won't be offended if y'all don't look at it. Each family has different believes about it! Till later....

Which one will you choose?

2009-01-20T15:21:00.002-06:00

Why haven't I been posting? Well, I got an injury on my left arm. I went sledding Sunday afternoon with a whole bunch of friends and to my surprise, I went on with someone and then my sled got under my arm and dragged it. I tore something under my arm and I believe I have sprained it. I got a sling on to support it, that's all that's working. A few nerves got pinched so that's where all the pain is coming from! OUCH! At times it's fine, and now again, it's beginning to hurt. I just have to wait about 1 week to 10 days!

I'm going to give y'all three choices to choose out of. When you have thought it over, just leave a comment to your honest answer! It can be anonymous too!

Out of these three, what do you find the hardest to do?

1. Ask for forgiveness to family or friends.

2. Leaving everything behind and following JESUS no matter what.

3. Witnessing to the ones who aren't saved.

The one which was commented the most, that is what my next post will be about! Good idea?!

Another blog to follow!

2009-01-14T15:44:00.004-06:00

Hey girls and guys! I have this really GREAT blog to give y'all to check out. You can't leave a comment, but just reading the posts is enough. This girl is from my favorite place in the world and just about 15 miles from my previous home town. She's been my friend for some time now and we are no longer just friends...no longer just best friends...we're practically sisters. Yes, we even fight at times! :) Erica, has been coming to my blog over the past 8 months perhaps and she has been talking about getting a blog together and finally she took the moment and did it! The latest post, "Beautiful" is absolutely, well the title says it, 'BEAUTIFUL! Take a minute or two and check her blog out. She just started it about 1 week ago. Since you can't leave her a comment, leave a comment on my blog (this post) and tell her what you think about it! She's a normal girl like us all, well, can we even say 'normal' anymore, what is normal by the way?! She loves the Lord with all her heart, and is a one of those friends who listens to everything you need to say. I guess her blog title explains it all, "Southern Maiden", yes, the south is the best!

Here is the link, http://www.mysouthernsky.blogspot.com/ .

Seeing Jesus through a four year old!

2009-01-10T10:54:00.005-06:00

Last night I was talking to my 4 yr. old sister, and I often have conversations like this one with her. I think they are so cute, but yet the truth. Look at what she answered me! Just for your info, my name is Nessa (she calls me that), and then hers is Izzy.

Nessa: Hey Izzy, what do you think of Jesus, who is he, and what does he do?

Izzy: He's my friend, he loves me, he's just the best Jesus, the best in the whole world!

Nessa: Ok, what else?

Izzy: He makes people see, he makes, um, um, me and others walk, he gives me and others eyes, and he helps me talk. Oh, and he makes me clean, really clean and white!

Nessa: Wow, he sounds great! What happened when he died on the cross?

Izzy: The Romans were really bad, very bad to him, they hurt him, but Jesus rose again. He woke up, and he lives in heaven now!

It's pretty amazing how a little child already knows the beauty of Jesus Christ our Lord. These are moments you want to treasure. She knows that he loves her, that he cares for her, and that he is the light. I read a story this morning in a book from Ray Comfort. There was this little girl, age 8, she had such a knowledge and love for Jesus. A man came up to this little girl and knew her strong faith and mocked her and said, "Little girl, do you know that Jesus is just like Santa Clause-fake! He's not real!" That can hurt a child's faith and love for Christ. We all need to be careful with our words, Christ is the ultimate, and when little children speak of him in a righteous and beautiful way, that is so amazing and touching to know they love him and have faith!

Jesus, however, said, "Let the little children come to me, and stop keeping them away, because the kingdom of heaven belongs to people like these." Matthew 19:14 (ISV)

Surrendering to the Almighty!

2009-01-04T13:21:00.004-06:00

Are you surrendering everything in your life to God? Are all your dreams in his hands? Are you holding onto somethings? Is it all in his care, in his arms? Or are you having problems with letting things go? Do you fear that some of your dreams aren't going to ever come true? Do you have an issue to leave it all up to God and giving him all your cares? Do you not want God to have everything in your life, to lead you everywhere?

I have many, many dreams, perhaps too many. Many of them are dear to me and some are just there because I'm young! I want to be a midwife, live on a farm/ranch, marry a cowboy, have many children, be a musician, etc. The list goes on and on. For a time I was imagining all of my dreams talking of this and that, thinking of this, and so forth. I was forgetting to place God first, giving him all the dreams. Surrendering it all. I remember when I rededicate my life to the Lord for the second time before. Then, soon after I got convicted by the Holy Spirit to let go of all the dreams. I can picture you the day out I did that. I was at church, kneeling at one of the prayer benches, I cried. I never have experienced that before. I gave God my heart, my life, my dreams, my all. I was surrendering everything I had, I cried from the bottom of my heart. I was being selfish, I didn't want to let it go at first. I wanted to keep it all. It wasn't until I realized that I want someone else to share these dreams with me, I couldn't trust none other but the Lord God. My heart poured out on that prayer bench. Things I hadn't thought of came up and straight out to God. Past sins, past regrets, everything on my heart went directly up to my friend!

Surrendering means to yield ownership, to relinquish control over what we consider ours. When we surrender to God, we are simply acknowledging that what we "own" actually belongs to none other but HIM. At times our life will just crumble, it will fall and crush into pieces. There's only one thing we can do...surrendering. Everything inside of us will be relieved, we will let out those held back tears, start a new beginning. However, when we leave it all to ourselves, it seems like we are in charge of our life, God is there, he is in power, but still something still lingers on and it's "mine!" Don't try to run the picture in life, be the second man and let God be the first.

I have a friend, and this friend often tells me how she doesn't want to let go of her dreams. She surrenders to God, but deep down she has some very precious dreams to her and she is so afraid that she doesn't want them to perish. She clings to those few dreams as her jewels. Many of us have dreams, and we don't want them to go away, we wish everything that they will come true. Although, we know it's the right choice if we leave it all at the cross. What "right" are you clinging to, even though deep down inside you know you'd be better off if you gave it up? Giving it all to Christ is the best thing you can do. You can actually live free. You can have a free life, you don't have to worry about this, or that. Think about it. A lot of girls worry about marriage, "What if I don't marry, what if the man I marry isn't the man I want, what if this man isn't good looking?" What are we to worry about? Why should we worry about things like that? Looking into the future is another, but surrendering to Christ is not only a MUST, but a WANTING to! You may not be happy about it right now, but in the bigger picture of life, you'll be glad you chose to surrender to God.

A crush...wrong?

2009-01-02T15:32:00.005-06:00

Hello!

I'm sorry that I didn't get the long anticipated post out sooner, but with the Holiday and plus I woke up yesterday morning with some pretty bad body aches, too painful to type on the computer. So, all that slowed me down!

Alright, I'm going to tackle the question, " Is It OK to Have a Crush on a Guy?" I'm really thankful for all of those who left a comment. They were much appreciated and really helped me think what I should post about. As the first step, lets take a look what the word crush means. Now, there are many definitions to this word, but the one which fits best to what I'm looking for is, "temporary love of an adolescent." Temporary means, "lasting, existing, serving, or effective for a time only; not permanent." Does that already explain a lot to you? This is what I'm getting from it. Why start a crush, when they are ALL practically just temporary. In our days, a crush lasts maybe a few weeks, perhaps, a few months, or maybe almost a year. Ok, a crush is NOT a bad thing. There are many stages a crush can be placed in. First, you see a guy and your heart reaches out (a.) he might be good looking, or (b.) he has a nice personality. The good looking type is not the right thing, there may be a guy who is looking good on the outside, but deep down he is ugly. His heart is rotten, and then what counts, just the looks or the character? My mom has always told me, "don't look on the outside of someone, that person will be old someday, and then the heart is what counts, the personality!" That is true.

Another problem is when you are constantly thinking upon this guy, your thoughts can go further than you intend to, and often they go out of control. Thoughts such as, "marriage, children, house, etc." can all be thought of and that is when a crush is getting WAY out of hand. Danger takes place when you think the future with this guy. All things need a balance, and when things get out of line, it's wrong! If you think of this guy as being helpful in the church, helping the sick, the needy, being a great follower for Christ, loving his sisters and brothers, and honoring his parents, then this is fine. It's when you plan your wedding and so forth. It's all normal to think about your future husband, however, controlling your thoughts can be one of the greatest blessings!

Remember that the most important thing of all is to be content with whatever God wants to do with your life. Perhaps you will get married. Perhaps you won't. As long as you are doing what God wants, then you can be happy and content. You should never allow thoughts about romance and marriage to control your life. You should be willing to serve the Lord in whatever way He wants you to serve, single or married. Your goal in life is never to find "Mr. Right." Your only goal in life is to love and obey God.

Having a crush brings a lot of misery, it wastes your life, it hurts your heart, it can bring holes in a relationship with family/friends, and most of all it can destroy your walk with God if you're not careful! As young adults our minds and body are often misled in the wrong way. We can at times be quickly turned away, especially when a young man comes into the picture, all of our common sense can leave us. It is a normal reaction, but we need to know when and how to turn off those thoughts. Just because you see a guys you might admire doesn't give you the right to fall and develop a senseless crush. You need to stay strong and block out all thoughts which will lead us to sin.

I have had many times where I will see a guy and think,"Oh, he looks cool, or he's pretty neat!" But then deep down, I know that this young man may just seem 'cool' doesn't mean his life is 'cool' or he doesn't respect his mother and father, and I WANT to be treated with respect. I know that the Lord doesn't want me to fix my thoughts upon a man who isn't in the Lord's will. Just because everyone will say it's normal to have those feelings when you see a young man, doesn't give you any excuse to fall!

A big help to guard your heart from a crush is prayer. When a man comes in your life or in your way and if you find something you like about him which isn't right, pray immediately to Christ. Ask him to take away your thought about this man, quote scripture when a nasty thought comes, or sing a song of praise to God. I often think and say to myself, "How could I have been so foolish and like this guy? Or how could I have done that?" I have cried many times in prayer asking for forgiveness, a crush doesn't get you anywhere. The world will tell you it's all NORMAL. It's not! It may be a normal reaction, but it's not normal to get into the next step...flirt. That's when things need to stop! Flirting is a game of purposely wasting your purity! Pray Psalm 51 in your deepest hour, and cry out to your best friend...JESUS!

Welcome 2009!

2009-01-01T15:30:00.000-06:00

Happy New Year!

Wow, does it feel awkward that another year has begun? I was talking with a friend earlier and she was saying how she's not ready for this New Year. She said it came upon too fast, I'm not prepared! I kept thinking, what are you not prepared for? Well, as I have thought about this I have come to the conclusion that there are many new things approaching for us this New Year. A new president is the first thing, and then many more will arise as the year continues on. For many this 'new' 2009 sounds very scary and different. Something in them is telling them, "Wait, I'm NOT ready!" It may be a different year, but I WILL take each day as a new blessing from the Lord. Many are already saying on the radio, web pages etc. how 2009 will bring only disaster and worry. Lots of people are already concerned what this New Year will bring. A lot aren't ready to let go of the 'old' 2008 and move onto the 'new' 2009. They want to hold on to the past and not forget. We are to forget our past mistakes and move on. I'm ready for a fresh new start. Putting the old behind, the past, and opening up this new chapter in life, the New Year, a new day, a new month. Just think positively and giving each day to God, thank him for the blessing it is that we are able of having another YEAR! Join this New Year with faith, trust, and joy that God will do something outstanding in your life!

The best New Year's Resolution ever!

2008-12-31T10:54:00.000-06:00

Ok, this is just a side note, doesn't have nothing to do with the previous post. I won't forget to post up my sequence to the question, but, since New Year's is just right around I want to post something about it!

A lot of us make New Year resolutions, either loosing weight, getting better grades in school, being a better son/daughter/mom/dad/husband/wife, etc. However, do any of us make resolutions to get closer to God? You may, or you may not. You might say, "I want a closer relationship with God this year!" Well, then in June you forget about it because summer is here and we all know in the summer things are a bit different. Do you keep that promise? Or is it just something you say and then you throw it away in the wind? As a start to this New Year, make a commitment, a promise that YOU will no matter become closer to God. Don't make a promise unless you can completely be sure about it. God doesn't forget a promise like that. Personally, there is no better commitment you can make than having a closer relationship with the one and only true God.

Yes, it's fine, you can make many other resolutions, whatever they are, but most of the time a few will only last, and make your relationship with Christ grow more than it has in the past 2, 5, 10, 15, whatever the amount of years you've been a Christian. Read the bible daily, even just for 5 minutes, prayer is the only way you can draw closer. The only way you can develop a deep friendship. I have a love and respect for my God, I love him so much, that I can't even describe it! That my friends is the best New Year's resolution, having a deep love and friendship with Jesus Christ our Lord! Jeremiah 29:11 says, "For I know the plans I have for you," says the LORD. "They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. (NLT)

Have a blessed and a heart full of love for Christ this New Year of 2009!

Part 1...guys!

2008-12-29T15:13:00.000-06:00

I hope y'all had a great Christmas?! I sure did, and I had a great big surprise too!

I have been thinking these past days while I have been off school...what should I post about on my blog? Should I touch the subject of guys and girls?! It came back and forth in my mind...yes, no?! I don't know! Not until this morning in my quiet time did I get a voice speak and say, "Yes, do it!" So, you might know what I will say, this is a subject which many don't like to touch, especially Christians. But, lets face it, do we have this problem, often starring at the other gender, or are we totally ignoring and have no problem at all?

Ok, buckle up your seat belt, stay on your computer chair, and read my words, here we GO!

Do you have an issue about this thing with guys. Whenever you see a guy, and lets say there's something you like about him, do you have thoughts about this guy, or do you block them out immediately? Is it something that comes easy to you, or do you struggle in this area? When my 13th birthday came around I saw guys from a different perspective, there were boys I knew for a long time and they were just there. When that birthday came I saw guys from a point I never saw before. I saw the cuteness in them and was aware that THERE IS a BIG difference between us! I was getting all happy and didn't see the danger in my foolishness. I have talked to a few girls and they all have had the same experience, some earlier than others, or some later on in life. Come on, honestly, don't tell me you have gone through your single year and haven't noticed a single guy where your heart goes up and down? I have a friend and she once told me that this is a normal feeling for a girl. When we see a guy we like, we get out of our way, and maybe our heart jumps up a bit too. Now, here's a question for you girls to answer! Is It OK to Have a Crush on a Guy? I'm going to leave you girls with this question, it's up to you to answer with leaving a comment, and then in my upcoming post I will post about that subject and continue where I have stopped!

Is this feeling all normal, or am I nuts? Just wait, stay on your chair and see what I will write!

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-23T22:12:00.000-06:00

Hey guys! Since Christmas is just a day away we are forgetting the true meaning of everything. Check out this beautiful picture of the way Christmas is displayed. Despite the voice of the singer, the video itself is great! I wish you all a great and blessed Christmas day. Don't be afraid to say, "Merry Christmas!" Don't find yourself caught up in the "Happy Holiday" saying. Don't be afraid to say, CHRISTmas!

Not only on Christmas day!

2008-12-16T18:04:00.000-06:00

A lot of people tend to be more spiritual and going to church just because Christmas is around, read this poem and you may want to think otherwise!

Lord, this is my prayer
Not only on Christmas Day
But until I see You face to face May
I live my life this way:

Just like the baby Jesus
I ever hope to be,
Resting in Your loving arms
Trusting in Your sovereignty.

And like the growing Christ child
In wisdom daily learning,
May I ever seek to know You
With my mind and spirit yearning.

Like the Son so faithful
Let me follow in Your light,
Meek and bold, humble and strong
Not afraid to face the night.

Nor cowardly to suffer
And stand for truth alone,
Knowing that Your kingdom
Awaits my going home.

Not afraid to sacrifice
Though great may be the cost,
Mindful how You rescued me
From broken-hearted loss.

Like my risen Savior
The babe, the child, the Son,
May my life forever speak
Of who You are and all You've done.

So while this world rejoices
And celebrates Your birth,
I treasure You, the greatest gift
Unequaled in Your worth.

I long to hear the same words
That welcomed home Your Son,
"Come, good and faithful servant,"
Your Master says, "Well done."

And may heaven welcome others
Who will join with me in praise
Because I lived for Jesus Christ
Not only Christmas Day -- Mary Fairchild

Changed your mind?

Beware of these books!

2008-12-09T16:53:00.000-06:00

Everyone, take a good look at this. I received this email and was urged to share it on my blog. This man Neale D Walsch is the author of Conversations with God and Conversations with God for Teens. These titles may be catchy, and may sound totally spiritual, but wait before you purchase these items. Inside the books the words may not seem so spiritual. The devil has his hand on these books, read the article below and please pass it on!

Oprah is pushing this book. (another reason I don't care for her!)

Please pay special attention not only to what your kids watch on TV, in movie theaters, on the Internet, and the music they listen to, but also be alert regarding the books they read.
Two books are, Conversations with God and Conversations with God for Teens, written by Neale D. Walsch. They sound harmless enough by their titles alone. The books have been on the New York Times best sellers list for a number of weeks, and they make truth of the statement, "Don't judge a book by its cover or title."

The author purports to answer various questions asked by kids using the "voice of God". However, the "answers" that he gives are not Bible-based and go against the very infallible word of God. For instance (and I paraphrase), when a girl asks the question "Why am I a lesbian?" His answer is that she was 'born that way' because of genetics (just as you were born right-handed, with brown eyes, etc.). Then he tells her to go out and "celebrate" her differences.
Another girls poses the question "I am living with my boyfriend. My parents say that I should marry him because I am living in sin. Should I marry him?" His reply is, "Who are you sinning against? Not me, because you have done nothing wrong."

Another question asks about God's forgiveness of sin. His reply "I do not forgive anyone because there is nothing to forgive. There is no such thing as right or wrong and that is what I have been trying to tell everyone, do not judge people. People have chosen to judge one another and this is wrong, because the rule is "'judge not lest ye be judged."
Not only are these books the false doctrine of the devil, but in some instances quote (in error) the Word of God.

And the list goes on. These books (and others like it) are being sold to schoolchildren through (The Scholastic Book Club), and we need to be aware of what is being fed to our children.
Our children are under attack. So I pray that you be sober and vigilant about teaching your children the Word of God, and guarding their exposure to worldly mediums, because our adversary, the devil, roams about as a roaring lion seeking whom he may devour (1 Peter 5:8). We know that lions usually hunt for the slowest, weakest and YOUNGEST of its prey.
Pass this on to every Believer you know. God bless! And, if you are in doubt, check out the books yourself.

Scary isn't it? I even went a step further earlier on Amazon and read a few comments from others who have read the book. I'll let you read one review: "Perhaps this book should be better titled Conversations with god (small "g") for Teens as the Holy Jehovah God would not reveal answers to questions in the way it is written here. This book is based on liberal man's interpretation and not what our youth need to hear. They hear that enough from television and society. I would NOT let my teen read this book. It is not Bible based and certainly not of GOD!!!"

It's shocking how man is deceiving the eyes, ears, and hearts of men, women, and children! The way of the ungodly is taking over this world. It's just like the words from the song, 'Slow Fade' "Be careful little eyes what you see, it's the second glance that ties your hands as darkness pulls the strings. Be careful little ears what you hear, when flattery leads to compromise, the end is always near, be careful little lips what you say, for empty words and promises lead broken hearts astray." Sadly, Christians are falling into the foolishness of this world. Please, pass this on to anyone you know! We need to, as I always say, make way through this world as a light!

Reading Psalms in a month...but how?

2008-12-02T17:10:00.000-06:00

My days, my time, my school, my studies, my family, my life, my dog, my friends, my email, my...my....my...blog! That's right, I have a blog! But you see all the MYS I have?! That's why I have such limited time to blog, and what am I doing here, explaining all this to you, just take it and believe me! But, what have I done again...? I have changed the entire layout. Shame on me, always messing around with it, I'm probably the only blog in the whole world doing so?! I didn't want a Christmas background, because I'd be in the same shoes next month! Alright, I hope y'all had a great Thanksgiving? I sure did, ate way to much but worked it all out the following day, playing soccer and football!

So, can you believe it that December is here?! Shall we say, "Happy Birthday!" to our last month. Crazy, isn't it? Snow showers, tea, Christmas carols, Christmas decoration, cookies, gloves, hats, scarves, boots, coats, all take place in the beautiful month of...December. What a lovely month this is, celebrating the birth of our beloved Savior! As all this 'new' stuff arrives, new moments are also cherished and remembered. You may get busy since the holidays are just around the corner. I know how that all is, shopping, family time, friends, tests in school, baking, and so much more takes up your day and time. Although, we should not forget to read our wonderful bible. Right?!

As the new month approached us before we could stop it, I have once again started at the beginning of Proverbs 1. I have been doing this every single month since winter 2006. Perhaps, a few of you don't know what I'm talking about. You see, the lovely book of Proverbs has 31 chapters, total. Now, since each month varies from 30-31 days, not including February, you take Proverbs and lets say for an example, December 1st you read Proverbs 1. Now, since December has 31 days, you will totally match up with Proverbs. Of course, a few months throughout the year are short a day, that's ok! Do you see where I'm going with this? For each day, you read a Proverb. The 15th of December you read Proverbs 15! I'm pretty sure a few of you knew that!?

However, I have learned another trick from a friend concerning Psalms. I haven't done this in awhile, so as December 1st was yesterday, I began it up again. This is what you do. Lets say you'd be interested in reading the Psalms in a whole month...but how, you ask yourself? Well, you take for example, December 1st, you read Psalm 1, 31, 61, 91, and 121. Do you see any pattern? Ok, let me explain myself. For each day, you read the date and then add 30 to each chapter. Understanding? Another example, December 10th, read Psalm 10, 40, 70, 100, and 130. As you know, there are only 150 chapters. So, on average, you read 5-6 chapters a day, and surprisingly, you get through the whole book! Give it a shot and see how much you'll learn from the Psalms. My favorite is to pray a Psalm, especially Psalm 51! That is a Psalm which has helped me so much. You might notice that you have ignored the book of Psalm so, take your eyes to that book and explore the beautiful writings therein!

Thanksgiving...that's why it's called THANKS!

2008-11-25T14:51:00.000-06:00

Hey y'all! Sorry that I always have to start my posts with....sorry! Well, perhaps not always, but it does happen often. My grandpa came in yesterday (Germany) for a 2 week visit. So, I will NOT be posting THAT much. It's kind of crazy over here. It's nice though, to have him here. It's been 11 months already. Anyways, I just want to wish all of you a happy, happy Thanksgiving! I know this is a day which our country has called, "Turkey Day!" It may just mean food, family, friends and football to you, but it's a day for being grateful! Thankful for all the blessings God has poured upon us this year and our life. We are all blessed too much and forget to thank the Lord! I want you, if you can, take the moment and read this poem!

Lord, so often times, as any other day
When we sit down to our meal and pray

We hurry along and make fast the blessing
Thanks, amen. Now please pass the dressing

We're slaves to the olfactory overload
We must rush our prayer before the food gets cold

But Lord, I'd like to take a few minute more
To really give thanks to what I'm thankful for

For my family, my health, a nice soft bed
My friends, my freedom, a roof over my head

I'm thankful right now to be surrounded by those
Whose lives touch me more than they'll ever possibly know

Thankful Lord, that You've blessed me beyond measure
Thankful that in my heart lives life's greatest treasure

That You, dear Jesus, reside in that place
And I'm ever so grateful for Your unending grace

So please, heavenly Father, bless this food You've provided
And bless each and every person invited

Amen!

--Scott Wesemann

Isn't this beautiful!? God is good, good to us and provides EVERYTHING we need. Take the moment and thank him for all he's done in your life. That's why it's called THANKSgiving day, and not UN-THANKFUL day! Have a great DAY!

Give Me Your Eyes

2008-11-15T15:45:00.000-06:00

I have been fighting with my inner self (you can say) about whether to share this music video, or to not. But, for some reason the thought has always been coming back to DO IT! So, here I am, posting this video up by Brandon Heath. I couldn't put the video on my blog as much as I wanted, the YouTube disabled it. Anyways, this entire song is such a witness to my family and I. It has become the song of the month! :) I just felt that I should share this with all of you. The video really speaks to us Christians. It's so true, we do need God's eyes. We are too blind. We categorize people too quickly as either being 'too sinful to hang around' or whatever it is we don't have the eyes to see the need this world is going through. We care too much about ourselves, when we should call out to God to give us his eyes, his arms, and pure humility to reach out to all the people. We are too busy to see the confusion everyone goes through. It's time to reach out to EVERYONE. Male, female, child, baby, widows(er), singles, homeless, etc. You need to care for the ones around you! Please check this video out, please watch it and I hope it ministers to you as well. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GTsYAZvHsEQ

I got awarded!

2008-11-14T16:52:00.000-06:00

I have been awarded! This is the first time. I'm really excited about it too! My wonderful friend Kalani did it for me! Isn't that sweet?! I now will pass this on to:

Allison at Letter From Christ

Katie at God's Workmanship

Naomi at Abundant Grace

Check this out y'all for more info: Kindred Spirit Network

Make a guy feel at ease!

2008-11-12T19:41:00.000-06:00

I have added a new link to something just absolutely amazing! As girls, we all have the problem with dressing. We either want to fit in, wear something fashionable (me), dress to impress, or maybe you have chosen to dress to please God. Well, maybe you have thought before or you may have not. A lot of us don't think of guys before we get in the closet and pick something out, or whether you're at the mall or clothing store. We just think about ourselves. We just want to be cool and so with it. We will dress in skimpy clothing, tight pants or skirts, short, short, shorts, tight tops, low cut tops, see through blouses, and the list goes on and on. Now, I'm being bold, but shouldn't I touch this topic? I do want to stand up and be a difference. I could go into further detail, but as of now I have decided just to discuss this subject slightly, but enough to get my point across. When it comes to the truth I am very bold, just ask my family and friend. Anyways, my point is modesty.

We as girls have the tendency to just care about ourselves and just wear whatever is hot, or so in the style. We may not think at the moment that guys will see us and will struggle with themselves inwardly. Young godly men will have to fight with themselves in order to look away from lust. There can be a very strong christian young man, but when a pretty girl walks into the room all his thoughts turn to her, and literally his mouth will be dripping, or his heart pulsing very fast. My friend once told me that when she dressed modest around guys they felt more at ease. For example, when she wore a pair of loose jeans and a loose top. Now, when she had something on which was just a bit tighter, she could feel these same guys nervous, and not knowing how to react towards her. Isn't this shocking. I'm mostly talking of Christian men. I was at another neighborhood 1 1/2 ago, and that is what I CALL ungodly guys! I would get mocked for wearing modest clothing, that is in the summer. And when I wore something which was considered normal in their eyes, they went CRAZY! Ok, I could see that right there when wearing modest clothing guys feel (in my case) more at ease. I do believe that.

So, with all this said, I want you girls to check this Modesty Survey out. Take a look at it, and study it carefully. Don't get offended, only consider it as a blessing and learning more and more how to become like Christ! Amen!

Check this letter out from the Rebelution Blog, it's pretty straight forward.

Dear Friends,TheRebelution.com has launched the results of their massive Modesty Survey! Over 1,600 Christian guys have answered questions on everything from glitter lotion and lip gloss to swimsuits and skirt slits! It's everything girls have ever wanted to ask guys about modesty, but were afraid to ask! For guys, it's really interesting to see what other Christian guys think! Most importantly, the survey is presented as a resource to help Christian girls (and guys), not a list of legalistic rules, and it is accompanied by the Modesty Survey Petition (which tons of guys have signed) which encourage young women to focus on the heart, not the hemline, to honor their parents, etc.The results were released on St. Valentine's Day as a gift from 1,600 Christian guys to all Christian girls -- and I can't think of a better one! Now the survey is being endorsed by people like Shaunti Feldhahn ("For Women Only") Nancy Leigh DeMoss (Revive Our Hearts), CJ Mahaney (Sovereign Grace Ministries) and Shannon Ethridge ("Every Woman's Battle")!

TAKE A LOOK!

Choose life for 08!

2008-11-02T14:09:00.000-06:00

This year's elections are coming around fast. I can remember so vividly when George W. Bush went for his 2nd term in 2004. Yet, another 4 years came around quickly and here we are once again in the limbo with whom to vote for. However, Barack Obama may seem to be appearing well educated, and plans to change America in a great way. What does great mean in his eyes. I don't know much about Obama to make a statement, so I will be careful with my words. Although, Obama is for one thing which is enough for me to vote (if I could) against him. He stands behind abortions and wants to make it allowed. If a mother goes to a Planned Parenthood and decides to have an abortion, this baby, if it makes it, will be killed if Obama gets elected as president. I don't simply understand how a man can make a law like this. How can you! If a baby survives the abortion and comes out of the mother alive, Obama will have this infant killed on spot! Are we to support this or stand up to make a biblical difference? This is up to you. I choose McCain, he is for life, we should vote life. Not death. All those who are for death will surely reap the consequence. What does the sixth commandment say? 'THOU SHALT NOT KILL'. Yes, abortion is killing a baby which doesn't have the chance to live. Vote for life! It lays on your conscience, who will you choose?

Ideas for Halloween!

2008-10-27T18:08:00.000-05:00

Hello everyone out there in the blogging world! Thank you everyone for leaving a comment on my previous post, it was very exciting to see a new one come up ever so often. I really do appreciate some of the kind words many of you said. I sometimes don't know if my words make sense, however, when y'all leave a comment and express how you feel, then I myself feel encouraged to continue on and be bold about the truth! Amen, amen!

While my mom was reading my previous post concerning Halloween, she gave me a few more ideas, and I would like to share them with you. I stated my point why not to celebrate Halloween, however, maybe there are some of you who have read what I posted but don't know what to do next. Well, that's why I'm here to post a few ideas. So, get ready, here I GO!

1. You can celebrate the night with dressing in orange (shirt, pants, skirt, dress, socks, etc.). Make all orange dishes, have special food for that night and read stories in the end of your evening.

2. I know some friends and they celebrate Reformation Day. Reformation Day was when Martin Luther nailed the 95 thesis to the door of the church. They also dress up like the people who had to do with the Reformation. Or even they might dress up as bible characters and have once again delicious food. Food is always a fun thing!

3. Have a special family night. You can either sit around as a family and tell stories, watch family movies, play games, etc.

4. Carve out a pumpkin and while you do it explain why. I will list a few scripture verses. Lets say you carve out all the inside, all the seeds and slimy pulp you can say, 'Create in me a pure heart, God. Psalm 51:10'. Then when you slid a large knife right into the center of the pumpkin a great verse would be, 'God's word is alive and working. It is sharper than a sword sharpened on both sides. It cuts all the way into us...'And God's word judges the thoughts and feelings in our hearts. Hebrews 4:12'. Also when you take all the slimy pulp into the garbage you can read out of the bible, 'He has taken our sins away from us as far as the east is from west. Psalm 103:12'. Next, carve a face, when doing this you can have a member in your family read the scripture as this one, 'The eye is a light for the body. If your eyes are good then you whole body will be full of light. Matt.6:22'. Don't forget the beautiful wide smile, 'Happiness makes a person smile. Proverbs 15:13'. (This idea is taken from a wonderful book titled 'The Pumpkin Patch Parable'.) Don't think I got that all from my mind! :)

I know I only have 4 ideas, but it's just a few things that I have heard of to spend that night. I have done these things and have really remembered them and enjoyed it too. You can do anything that night to keep yourself off the streets from the trick or treaters. Share with me what you do!

October 31...Halloween!

2008-10-20T17:36:00.000-05:00

Now here come my long waiting (well, was it that long?) post that all of you are waiting for!

Let's take it from this perspective and point, I'll be bold to start with, "Should Christians in the first place 'even' celebrate Halloween?" Number one, doesn't the word Halloween sound to you like something spooky or dark? It does to me. Therefore, doesn't the bible state that we as Christians should be the light in this world and not fellowship with the dark? Halloween is a day set aside to worhip Satan and the darkness. It's a holiday which glorifies the darkness of this world rather than what I said a few sentences ago, the light of Jesus Christ.

As believers, we are called to "Test everything. Hold on to the good. Avoid every kind of evil. [1 Thesalonians 5:21-22] Who can deny that virtually all of the symbols of Halloween are evil? Witches, monsters, ogres, vampires, ghosts, ghouls, goblins, devils and demons all portray evil. Christians are to "... have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them." [Ephesians 5:11] Many Christians don't see this, all they see is the fun in going trick-or-treating and dressing up in funny'n cute costumes i.e. princess, pumpkin, Winnie the Pooh and so on. All this is fine, dressing up in cute costumes is ok, as long as there is always a healthy perspective on things. However, it's when you go out at night on October 31 and when you assosiate and encourage this holiday. You may think, "Oh, there's nothing wrong with having a little bit of fun tonight." Well, a little bit of fun can lead into a little bit of ruin. Ringing the doorbell of many homes and celebrating that night and the darkness which is often hid behind all the 'fun' is nothing but Halloween. While you may have participated "all in fun," be assured, Halloween is serious business for Satanists and witches.

Believe me, I have done Halloween before when growing up as a small girl. It wasn't until my parents woke up and saw the real meaning behind all of this darkness and evil. The world portrays it is a cute holiday, and when you reach my age (16) you don't dress up in those cute costumes anymore, it's more of the dead, bloody, witches, disgusting monsters etc. Sadly, little children don't know the difference if you yourself as a parent does Halloween. When Christians participate in Halloween, it sends a message to children that witchcraft, demonism, Satanism, and the occult are something fun, entertaining and harmless.

But what exactly is wrong with Halloween? It does not have even one single redeeming virtue. It is custom born out of pagan superstition. It is a demon-inspired, devil-glorifying, occult festival. It is an evening holy unto evil, death, and divination. The Scriptures tells us to "Abstain from all appearance of evil." [1Thess. 5:22] You may think it's just an innocent fun thing to do to gather candy and to dress up in goofy costumes. My friends, no, Halloween is of the Enemy, he puts this lie into your mind to trick you that it's fun and harmless. It's the night of death, of ghosts, of monsters, of goblins, of wicked and disgusting things! The Lord gives us wisdom and guiding to stay far away from all this evil. Take not my word, but what the bible has to say about it. But we only do this in fun...we don't practice witchcraft," those things that represent Satan and his domain cannot be handled or emulated "for fun". Such participation places you in enemy and forbidden territory and that is dangerous ground.

Do not participate into the evil this year, abstain from it all and cling to the Lord Jesus. There are numerous things you can do that evening. One year I remember that my family and I did an
'orange night', meaning, we dressed up all in orange and eating all orange foods. Or we have passed out witnessing tracks hidden within the candy. It's up to you what you will do this Halloween. Will you follow the world and just try to fit in with just a cute innocent costume? Or will you stand the ground for the Lord and fight the battle that evil night of the dead? It's your choice.

One more time!

2008-10-17T16:36:00.001-05:00

Once again....new layout! Y'all you just have to get used to it, Vanessa changes things all the time! How do you like this one?

Pictures of the beautiful fall weather!

2008-10-17T15:41:00.000-05:00

I know I said that my next post was going to be about Halloween, however I decided to share a few pictures my family and I took yesterday while walking in the forest.

This is right outside of my back yard. My brother Marc captured this picture while is was raining! Looking out of the kitchen door, this is your fall view!

We had such gorgeous weather yesterday, sunny skies and in the low 50's. Of course, it's back to the cloudy skies of October today!

I just love those red, orange, yellow, and lime green mix! Fall where I live is amazing. Back when I lived in Texas, I didn't have the chance to experience a fall like this. Now, I really am enjoying it. Although, Texas is still in my heart! :)

Coming up post....

2008-10-15T14:56:00.000-05:00

We all know that this month is the month where we see Halloween decoration. Isn't that correct? Some houses have really disgusting stuff. My next post will be about this topic..."HALLOWEEN", or in other words..."The devil's night!"

Give me a few days to pray about this post and for the Lord to give me specific wisdom on this subject. It's not an easy one, many Christians fall for this...stay with me.

My answers to the test

2008-10-15T14:33:00.000-05:00

Ok, I'll now tell you my answers to my 'True Friend Test'. Be glad this was a friend test, not a math test! :o

Question #1: Am I girly girl, or more of tomboy?
Answer: I'm a tomboy! LOL. I'm serious, my mom has to slow me down at times!!
Question #2: What is my favorite time of the day?
Answer: Morning-it's the time to meet with GOD!
Question #3: Which 2 instruments do I like the best?
Answer: Violin and Piano-duh, that's because I play those two!!
Question #4: Out of these 4, which do I like the most?

Answers: Well, talking is the one! I'm a very social person-my nickname at times....'social butterfly' my name means butterfly!

Question #5: Out of these 4, which do I hate the most?

Answer: TV-I mean the local channels and cable. Now, I do like some movies (i.e. Christian movies)

Question #6: How many siblings do I have?

Answer: The Lord has blessed me with 4.

Question #7: How many children do I want?

Answer: Get ready for this one y'all.....13! Hey, babies are a BLESSING!

Question #8: My favorite color?

Answer: Green

Question #9: Which one is my dream?

Answer: Living on a ranch and farm and marrying a cowboy! Hey, I'm still a Texan in heart!

Question #10: Am I loud or quiet?

Answer: LOUD! Ask my entire family plus friends! Nessa is a LOUD one! LOL!

Now you all know me from a different perspective. If you thought I was this proper little (well, little is right!) girl, then you were wrong. What I mean by little is....height!! Hahaha!

Funny conversation between a little one!

2008-10-11T09:46:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone. I'm once again sorry that I haven't been posting like I 'want to', but there has been a few issues going on around here lately that I have to slow down and just take a break. Anyways, I don't have much to say just a cute story that went on the other night between my little sister and I.

Her name is Izzabella (Izzy), this is how our little five minute conversation went like. She calls me Nessa, just so you know.

"Hey Izzy, you know that in a few years from now you'll be loosing your teeth."

"But-but, Nessa, I don't want them to fall out, I eat healthy food, my teeth are strong!"

"Yeah, I know you don't eat sugary foods, but it's just normal as you get older, your body just does that so you can have some big girl teeth."

"But why? It's gonna hurt, who does this to me? Who will punch me?"

"Oh Izzy, no one will punch you or hurt you, God just has it planned out like that."

"Well, tell God that I don't want him to take my teeth out! Tell him I eat too healthy, and my teeth aren't suppose to go anywhere!"

Cute, huh? What a blessing to have a little one!

First time TAGGED!

2008-10-06T14:58:00.000-05:00

I got tagged for the very first time by Lacy on A Godly Maiden!! I was so happy when I saw that comment she left me! Thanks Lacy!!! :)

1. Link to the person(s) who tagged you.
2. Post the rules on your blog.
3. Write six random things about yourself.
4. Tag sixish people at the end of your post.
5. Let each person know he or she has been tagged.
6. Let the tagger know when your entry is up

Ok...I know I have six random things about myself!

1. I'm not scared of anything except bees (well, mostly)
2. I'm 16 and am quite short- 4'11''!
3. I don't have any cavities
4. I've never had any facial skin problems
5. I HATE T.V.
6. To my knowledge, I'm not allergic to anything!

That's all I could think about myself, of course if I would ask my brothers and sister they would probably say 6 time itself! But, it's okay to be a bit awkward! That's what makes me unique!

Now, I'll tag 6 others:

Allison at www.letterfromChrist.blogspot.com
Kalani at www.unhiddenlight.blogspot.com
Lydia at www.daybyday-lydia.blogspot.com
Bethany at www.bloggingbeth.blogspot.com
Katie at www.gods-workmanship.blogspot.com
Kaysie at www.alabasterboxblog.com

Don't tag me, but six others!

Now, pass this on, and have fun with it....!

Swim the other WAY!

2008-10-03T17:30:00.000-05:00

Sorry guys and girls! I know that I haven't been on this blogging world in ages. You know how my blog looks like, not a post since September 23, if you look at my e-mail, it looks the same way and you can then tell how busy I have been. However, believe me, even though school life and afterward activities have been keeping me busy, I have been thinking of blogging everyday, but, there's always a but with something, my time doesn't allow it. There are only 24 hours in a day, and out of those 24 I'm either, sleeping, eating, doing school, cleaning, babysitting, spending time with family, etc. Ok, enough about 'my life' more about why I'm here and why I've decided to post!!!

The other day (actually 2 weeks ago, this has been on my mind but I haven't got the chance to post it out) my family and I were driving around town to get to a soccer game, not to mention, we were already beating the time. My dad was pressing that speed and trying to get to that specific soccer field. So, with the speedometer reaching higher and higher so was the time getting higher and higher. Y'all are probably like, "What's this girl saying, she's a nut case!" Just wait a minute, I'll get to my point. Anyways, my dad was of course really wanting to get to that soccer game just on time, however, a few hours before he was going too fast and sure enough the police let off his annoying siren....and as well all know, he gave my poor dad a ticket. Now, as we were driving we all were saying, "Dad, please slow down you don't need another ticket." Well, he did slow down after all and then this is what my mom said, "Honey, you can't follow the normal speed as everyone because then yourself will get caught into trouble!" Now, I'll get to my reason and point.

The moment my mom said those words, it went into my 16 year old brain and meant more than just that phrase of 17 words. This is what I got out of it. What my mom said and meant made total sense when you take it into a metaphor and base it around the world and us Christians. Take a look at this. Just as my dad was trying to go the speed everyone was going and if he does so then he'll eventually get caught. So is it when we all try to go with the speed of this world. Let it be music, fashion, movies, actors and actresses, etc. We all want to stay on top of things and keep everything in what is called now, 'new' and not the 'old' times. If we as Christians try to stay and run into this world with speed and getting all the latest things we too will sooner or later get into trouble. God will at times take things for awhile, however, we all get too comfortable with this way of doing things and God will try anything to knock us on the head, but many of us are too busy to even hear him that we ignore his call and then, a consequence will come.

I once had a t-shirt with about 100 fishes on it. All the fishes were swimming one way, whereas there was one fish out of those 100 who was swimming the opposite. All the others were coated in yellow, whereas this one was green. Does this make sense? All those other fishes were going with the flow, dressing the same to some degree, and doing the same thing(s). It takes a lot of will power and self-control to 'swim' the opposite direction. This is just the same with being on the street and with being in the world as Christians. You have all these cars speeding by you going maybe 5-10 above the actual speed limit and maybe there's one of two who are following the sign and rule. This all applies to the above examples. All of us have to swim the other way, going the way which is right, even though it's tough and very difficult, great will be our reward in heaven. Right now we might not think about that, we often press hard and have tears for persecution, but great will be our reward in heaven!

Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat:

Matthew 7:13

With all this said, my message to all of you today is to....SWIM THE OTHER WAY!

New blog-Lydia

2008-09-23T16:27:00.000-05:00

I want to let all of you know, that I have added a new blog to my blogging list. It's this new young lady Lydia, a girl like us who strives to be pure before the perfect and holy God! Give her blog a view and tell her how beautiful and wonderful it is! Praise the Lord for more young ladies like this. Our world sure needs it!

http://daybyday-lydia.blogspot.com/

Pray for the ones in need!

2008-09-16T18:05:00.000-05:00

I'm sorry y'all! I've been just so busy that posting on my blog isn't part of my life lately. I'm telling ya, being a Junior this year really holds you back for some hours! Anyways, my post isn't about my school life! :)

I was thinking today (like usual), how my mom always told me from little on, perhaps when I was 5 or 6 how the power of prayer works and how to use it everywhere no matter knowing the person or not. This is what she has taught me, "Vanessa, whenever you hear an ambulance, voice a 5 second prayer in your mind for that person, that the Lord will be on his/her side and that if they are not saved that either the doctor or nurse will be the witness to this lost soul." Sure enough, I do keep that statement in mind whenever one passes by, (believe me, you'll notice how often it happens).

1. Whenever you hear an ambulance siren, say a prayer for the person inside!

And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up... James 5:15 (a)

That's all have for now. May the Lord be with all of you, keep strong, press forward, and pure before the eyes of the Lord. Have a blessed week and a joyous day!

Press forward!

2008-09-08T17:30:00.000-05:00

This has helped me a bunch over the past 2 years when I had to move from my home state, and when going through some difficult times last year. I just thought about sharing this with all of you.

Don't waste time grieving over the past mistakes. Learn from them and move on!

Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before. Philippians 3:14

We have a big impact!

2008-09-07T15:35:00.000-05:00

Have you ever had a moment of anger, such anger where you want to really throw it out and make it known? If so, then you know what I'm talking about. I don't mean you have to yell or scream, hit or kick, or use bad language, just having it inside of you and being irritated and standing on the edge of your patience. I can relate to this pretty well when playing the sport of tennis. Sometimes that ball will not get over the net and it'll just barely go high enough. Or if the ball goes onto the other court or if I have a weak backhand and I can hardly get it over the net. My patience really goes low. I want to at times get that racket and wack it on the court. Hey, I know that may sound funny, or a bit rediculous that little Vanessa would really do that, but believe me, I do at times feel that way and want to let all my anger loose! If the racket I use wouldn't be the kind and costly one it is, then I would whack it on the court! However, at times I really do appreciate in a sense that my tennis racket is a great brand and is costly because it forces me from not banging it on the court. You see, even though this is just a sport, but I have a weakness in this area to become angry.

I have realized and have come to the point that my actions speak louder than my words! There are others on these tennis court area playing the exact sport. Now, who knows, they may all be unbelievers or all believers. Or there may be just one unbeliever who has the same anger letting out and being mad at himself and sure is showing it. If this person sees me then he/she might be thinking, "Oh, everyone has this problem of anger, it's considered normal and especially when playing this sport!" Do you see this my friends? Do you clearly see how much of an impact a Christian does have. Even if this person doesn't know that we are believers, but we know, and it is important for us to always act with kindness and being gentle with our actions and words. We could be a light for this person without any of us knowing. This person could then see and be impressed with how we are acting, and therefore God will get the glory, not us. Always remember that!

Anger turns to sin when it is selfishly motivated,when God’s goal is distorted, or when anger is allowed to linger. Notice that anger isn't always sin. Take Ephesians 4:26 as an example: "Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath." Psalm 4:4 says, "In your anger do not sin; when you are on your beds, search your hearts and be silent." When we give in to anger, we often focus on our own welfare, comfort or happiness. Instead, we should be primarily concerned about other people’s welfare and being a good witness for God.

My friends, for my conclusion I want you all to see and realize that we have a big impact with the way we act and speak. It doesn't have to be tennis which gets you angry, it could be your siblings, parents, best friend, spouse, boyfriend/girlfriend, whoever and whatever the situation might be. Let us always speak and act pleasing unto the Lord. Anger is of Satan and he uses this tool for us to fall into sin and into an area with which we are weak in. If we know we are weak in a certain area, then ask the Lord to help you and give you the strength to walk out of it. Anger can shatter communication and tear apart relationships, and it ruins both the joy and health of many.

Psalm 37:8: Refrain from anger and turn from wrath; do not fret—it leads only to evil.

A BIG Thanks!

2008-09-03T17:23:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone! I just want to thank you all for taking your precious time and visiting my blog. Also, even if I have some "invisible" viewers, I just want to take the moment and thank you for visiting. For all of you who have left numerous comments I really appreciate it! I like to thank Allison on Letter From Christ for coming to my blog and often saying, "Thanks for the encouragement!" That is very nice to know that there is some 'help' in my words and posts! There has been so many visitors that I can't even think where to begin. Kalani on Unhidden Light, Emily on Emily's Rabbit Blog (she left a comment on my post 9/2/08...thanks:), Paige on Paige's Page, Samantha, and my best friend Erica who has been leaving comments as anonymous! Noelle as you visited my blog this past weekend, and Lacy on A Godly Maiden. Thank you, thank you, thank you! I know there are many more and my thanks are to all of you.

With Love, Nessa

School is in Session!

2008-09-02T14:42:00.000-05:00

My, my, my! School is actually here. I have completed my first day of being a Junior. Do I feel any different? Nah, not physically, but I sure do mentally! I'm more smarter today than yesterday, isn't that right, learning everyday! Even though I sometimes still use the words, 'y'all' and 'ain't', that's just my Texan tongue. Once a Texan, always a Texan! Anyways, I'm talking about school here, not my past. Since I was a very young child I have been getting up early and starting school early. All of my siblings have. It's the way we have been raised since I have a military father. Those of you who have one know what I mean! :) They are more strict at times and there is a schedule. I wake up at 5:00 and begin school at 6:30. From then on it's study, study, study, and work out the math (as to speak). I end school on average at 2:30. So there you have it, 8 hours of fun!! (just kidding). No, really it's not too bad. It just sometimes gets to me when you have that many hours...! However, this morning as I was doing my quiet time I thought of how blessed I am. The Lord has blessed me with another school year. Giving me a mind which is able to comprehend major high school stuff!

Now, I have completed 1 day and just have 179 more days to go! Yippee! Look at school from a different perspective. Make it a joy! Do everything unto the Lord! Even through all the difficult problems, the Lord is with you! School is tough, I know it!

Have a blessed week!

Change

2008-08-29T19:00:00.000-05:00

Hey guys! This is still Maiden of Purity. I just got a whole new layout. I wanted to try something different. That's who I am, trying new things! Let me know what you think about the 'new' background!!

Taking off for a week!

2008-08-26T18:35:00.000-05:00

I will not be posting for about a week. I just want all of you to know this because I have to take only these last few days of my summer and spend them wisely. Also, I am being kept busy with preparing for school. I only have one more week and then the business starts up again. I have been going through my books, gathering up school supplies, writing out a lesson plan, and most of all, psyching my mind up! HA HA! Ok, I will be back in perhaps a week, unless something comes up this week which I will want to share. God bless y'all!

The '3' letter word...why!

2008-08-22T15:56:00.000-05:00

Have you ever had a moment where you thought, "Lord, why is this incident happening? Why are you allowing this to happen?" I sure have, and am very guilty of sometimes catching myself with asking, "Why, why, why?" Well, let me tell you about the little word 'why.'

When we often say why we are simply meaning, "For what reason?, how so?, how?, how is it that?" And, that little why word is also another way of either complaining, or questioning. We many times don't even realize what that little three lettered word can mean or how much of an impact it can have. Look, let's take another example, let's say, your mom asks you to clean the dishes for lunch, however, without doing it some of us say, "Why mom?" That right there my friends is complaining and questioning her command. Just as I stated in my first paragraph at how many of us come to God when things aren't going the way we want them to be, we come straight at him and say, "Why Father God, why?"

Allow myself to read you a line which my best friend told me when I was going through something I didn't understand. "Vanessa never ask God 'why' He's obviously allowing this incident to happen for a reason! We don't always understand what, but he knows. Nothing passes by the eyes of the Lord, he has a plan in this." Isn't that amazing words of wisdom? When she told me that it was a light bulb inside of my turned on and I awoke. All the times before when something would go on which I wasn't to pleased with, I would, complain to the Lord. When my friend told me this I realized and confessed to God. Everything that goes on in our lives are just a clear sign that the Lord has his hand in it all and is in total control.

Now all these things happened unto them for examples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come. I Corinthians 10:11

He teaches us through the hardest times and we are not to be murmuring and questioning God why this and that. When incidences happen where we don't always understand it is a time where we draw closer to God, because we cleave to him all the more to find the answer!

Draw nigh unto God and he will draw nigh unto you. James 4:8 (a)

Last days of summer :(

2008-08-19T09:23:00.000-05:00

Hello everyone. I'm so sorry that I haven't got around and published anything new since August 8th. I have been just enjoying the last few days of summer, and am slowly getting ready for school. We haven't started and won't start for another 2 weeks, however, just writing out a lesson plan, and getting all my books together, and going over some new ones. I'm getting a little bit excited, but can't believe summer is about over! Fall will be here in a month and then, oh no, the long cold winter months. Especially where I live, you get about 5-6 months of cold, snowy weather. Well, it's still some months away!

This Sunday at church my family and I recited for the first time, Psalm 1 by heart! I was so amazed and very excited that we achieved this task. I know Psalm 1 is only 6 verses, but hey, it was a start, and as for my mom and dad, we need to go slow on them at first. :) We are working on Psalm 100 for the next time. You see, each month (third Sunday of every month) our church has what we call a, hymn sing. It's where we play hymns on piano or guitar, then our pastor reads scripture and allows a few moments of silence for the Holy Spirit to speak to anyone. Then you can either recite scripture as an individual, or together with your family. We decided to do it together as a family. However, my dad has challenged my siblings and I to take a chapter in the bible and work on it till the next hymn sing which will be, Sept.21. I have decided to do James 3. It will be a challenge, however, it's kind of motivating to do because you feel as you have achieved a great accomplishment. And you have! It's a great reward!

Oh, one quick thing before I go. As I was out and about last week, I saw a bumper sticker on a car, this is what it said. "God hears knee-mail!"

DON'T take the BAIT!

2008-08-08T10:26:00.000-05:00

I got this book by Nancy Leigh Demoss and Dannah Gresh for my birthday. It's titled, 'Lies Young Women Believe.' I want to take a moment and share something out of that book what I learned this morning while doing my quiet time, take a look at these four powerful paragraphs. I recommend this book for any young lady. It is a big eye opener. Not everything, but a lot of things!

If you've ever gone fishing, you know that you won't catch anything if all you do is throw an empty hook in the water. Fish are smarter than that. If you want to catch a fish, you have to put some kind of bait on your hook.

Satan's lies are the bait he uses to catch us. James 1:14-15 exposes the tactics Satan uses to ensare us. "But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed.
Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death."

Satan takes the things you desire and promises to fulfill those desires if you will simply reject God and ignore His Word. But he doesn't come right out and say. "Reject God and ignore His Word. " Instead, he convinces you that doing something just once won't really hurt anything. Or that other people are finding happiness when that reject God. "And after all," he hisses, "doesn't God want you to be happy?"

When you take the bait, you've given birth to sin. Satan's goal is to use your sin to destroy you. John 10:10 says, "The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly." So, the next time you're tempted to do something you know you shouldn't do, remember-there's a hook waiting for you. Don't take the bait!

My birthday!

2008-08-05T08:16:00.000-05:00

It's my birthday! Yes, my 16th! I can't imagine that I'm actually 16 years old! I remember when I was always about 8 or so I'd try to think and just wonder how I'd be like when I'm 16. Well, life went by without even realizing and I'm there now. It's amazing, God has given 15 wonderful years. I'm healthy, blessed, have a awesome family, and an amazing best friend!

As I start my new year, I pray that the Lord will bless me with wisdom, courage, strength, and love. I have had a great 15 years of my life. Each day I learned something new. My fifteenth year was great. I really came closer to the Lord and learned to totally rely upon him in ALL things. I endured trials and hardships, and as well as joyful moments. Times where I didn't want it to end. I was blessed to see my God, seeing him work through my life and through the lives of others. It was wonderful to just watch as I prayed for a request and see the Lord fulfill it slowly by slowly.

I have an amazing family. Parents who are always there for me when I need them most. My dad and mom are the ones who have taught me the ways of the Lord. They directed me when I was younger, with love, patience, and joy. They have been the ones who encouraged me when I was down, they brought me up in the way of the Lord. I wouldn't be where I am right now if it weren't for my parents. I have a mom who knows me in and out. She is a powerful praying woman, praying for the ways of her children. She has directed me in wisdom and love when I need it the most. My dad has provided such a wonderful love for me. He has never missed my birthday, and always made it possible to come home from work. As I celebrate my sixteenth birthday he is out of town on a business trip, however. This is the first time, and he sure doesn't like it. He has corrected me when I have sinned and has turned me from the way of sinners. He has been my shield and protector. I feel safe in my father and love him dearly. His funny humor brings me up when I'm down. Thank you mom and dad for being in my life, for leading me, and for raising me up to become a godly lady. I love you both!

My siblings are the ones who I couldn't imagine life without. We have laughed endless hours, talked, and fought. They never ignore me, and always are there for me. I pray for you guys daily, and am so blessed that we are still all together. Marc, as you are approaching 19, I'm very happy that you still are with us. That you haven't left this house yet, I love to talk to you at night, and am blessed for the brother I have! Alec, and Noah, you guys are something else. Making me laugh 24/7 and are always there when I need you guys. Continue to stay the cute little boys, and always remember the relationship with have as siblings. Izzy, my sister, I love you, you little thing. Thanks for making my life wonderful. You are my sister, and my love! I cannot believe that we are all growing up. I wish and pray to God that we will all live together. In a reasonable distance. I don't want to live without my four wonderful siblings, and my lovely parents. I need God, my family, my grandparents, and my best friend and that's all. I have been blessed with amazing siblings, a godly, caring, loving family. I love you guys so very much, my siblings, my best siblings!!

Now, my best friend. Erica, I want to thank you for the friendship you have given me. The wonderful times we have had, the long conversations, and the encouragement you give me. You correct me when I have wronged, and have been there from me at all times. I feel like you are no longer a friend, but a sister. A dear sister to my heart, one whom I can talk about anything! You are the best friend, a friend anyone needs to have. You are a true friend, a sister in heart. You even called me at 12:27 AM the time I was born and wished me a happy birthday this early morning. You have taught me and showed me the ways of the Lord. Erica, I love you!

I can say more, to my family and friend, but it would be a very long post. I have had a blessed year, and pray for another wonderful year to come. My sixteenth year will be following after the Lord! I want this year to be even better than last years, to have a closer relationship with my God, and with each of my family members. Thank you guys for everything!

My testimony!

2008-08-03T10:23:00.000-05:00

Hey y'all!

I got BAPTIZED today! You're probably like, "What? I thought, she was, I thought she's saved?!" Well, that's fine. Ok, let me tell you about myself and my walk with the Lord and how it has changed over the years.

I accepted Christ when I was a little 6 year old. I thought it was the right thing, however, the older I got the more doubts came up. If I sinned I didn't really think it was all that bad. I would go ahead and live on with it. I turned 11 or so and still life was the same, always wondering, 'Am I saved? I think so?" So, I tried each time to really get close to the Lord. I would try to motivate myself with reading the bible and praying, however, I didn't have the urge to do it every morning. I didn't think I was a bad person, and I most certainly didn't find myself walking closer to the Lord. I would often pray the prayer over and over again, especially when I'd go to any conferences. But, I didn't take it serious. I wasn't feeling a growth in my life. It wasn't until I moved to Illinois almost 2 years ago, when I was 14. We began going to this church we found and my life was changed. I began to have convictions each day. I would wake up early in the morning just to have a special hour with the Lord. It was about the middle of October when I re-accepted Christ in my heart. I felt renewed. I felt that I was free from sin and was ready to begin over. I couldn't live the sinful life anymore. I felt rotten when I sinned and wanted to immediately ask for forgiveness. I totally surrendered my life to Christ and that fall and winter were just wonderful!

I was thinking, "Wow, my life is going great! My life with Christ is just wonderful!" Until, summer 07 hit! Of course, you are more outside and so are others, and in this case, kids. All ages, boys and girls. I began hanging around these kids having the thought, "It's ok to hang around a few hours, nothing bad will come out of this, besides they're all younger!" Sure enough, a few hours ended up into an entire day. I would get questioned about my faith and constantly what I call, persecuted! Whatever I'd say or do, kids would come out and say, "Why that, or why this?" I would tell them but the more I'd say, the more I'd get mocked. It always felt as if I would read my bible and pray, each day would get worse. I began to feel pressured and wondered, "Hm, I'm your child God, why aren't you watching over me?" Believe me, the last day I lived there was the worse! I felt like just falling apart, but still inside of me, I knew I was doing wrong with these kids but I did it, because I didn't want to be questioned about every little thing. We moved in the end of June and it wasn't until the middle of July or so did I realize how much senseless times I wasted out there. I began to feel troubled the entire summer with certain things and I would cry out to God and just ask him to take all this trouble away from me. The fall hit and I began to see that all that trouble that was going on with me and those kids was trials and tribulations. I began to search the bible and pray and just cry out to God. It says in the bible that when you walk with the Lord and the closer you get others will notice you and will mock you. I was getting those persecutions from 12, and 13 year olds.

All what went on last year was only a blessing from God because I became closer to Christ. My walk with him is just lovely, I am so excited to meet with him everyday! I can no longer imagine life without my God. Instead of complaining when I fall into trials and tests I rejoice! So, there you have it, that is why I got re-baptized this afternoon! Both my little brother who accepted Christ a year and a half ago and I did it on the same day! Praise the Lord!

My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; James 1:2

Cover up!

2008-07-31T16:12:00.000-05:00

Today I had a fun, and what you can say a tiring day! I had one of the moms I babysit for call me and ask if I could come with her to the water park and watch her little baby who is barely 2 months old while she has a party with her little boy and his friends. I said sure! I was at the water park for about 4 hours! I had a great time holding and feeding the baby though. However, I sat there and I was able to observe all the people. It was very heartbreaking to see young girls walking around in these skimpy bathing suits. I just thought to myself, "I know it's hot out, but come on, aren't you ashamed to show so much of your body?" I was asked many times to get into the water, I would of, but I didn't know what was ok to wear and what wasn't. I know a lot of these public places don't allow shorts and tank tops. I would of gone, but, was so uncertain.

I just couldn't believe how youngsters walk around totally ok with what they wear. I sometimes just think, "What you're wearing is senseless, you're practically naked!" I'm serious! I know I'm being open and bold, but it's the truth! Just because they may have a good body and great figure doesn't mean that you can show it off. Many times when we see someone who is a bit overweight and they are just in some swimming trunks, or in a bathing suit, we say, "Ew, can't you put a t-shirt on?" But just because they look sick with the fat doesn't mean they should cover up. Everyone should cover up. However, our world is so messed up with thinking that if you are thin and in shape it's ok to go without any shorts or t-shirt. Fat or skinny, it doesn't matter, we all should keep our bodies for ourselves and later for our spouse. Did you know that until the mid-1800s guys and girls swam in different places or at different hours? Yet, today guys and girls swim together in swimwear that is often provocative and designed to expose your body!

You see little girls with the age of about 3 who are already dressed in bikinis, people think it's so cute! It may look cute, but these little girls are getting messed up with already thinking, "Oh, it's ok to dress with such little clothing!" Then you see them in mini skirts, and skinny strapped tank tops and swaying their hips back and forth because they see everyone else acting this way. That is true, everyone practically does dress that way and little girls don't know the difference because mommy is dressing them that way. Then once they hit 13 or so they are totally out of their mind and are dressing totally nuts! Sadly, they don't know the difference. They have been taught and have been dressed that way since a little child. They think it's normal to show off their body, to walk and act immodest. Then they have their own children and start that same pattern. You see, it just goes on and on. It's ridiculous!

As a Christian your behavior sets the tone for how others see you and your faith. Being modest in your appearance is just as great a witness to those around you as your words. One issue many non-Christians have with believers is that they tend to be hypocritical. If you are preaching purity and modesty to others while wearing revealing clothes you may be seen as a hypocrite. By being modest you allow people to see your inner faith rather than your outer appearance.

Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us. 1 Peter 2:12 (TNIV)

Stand up and be modest. Don't try to follow the trend with dressing in the latest styles. You can still dress very cute and fashionable while at the same time being modest. I know, because I have seen so many. However, even wearing a skirt can be immodest if it's too tight or too short. Be careful when choosing your clothing. Make sure your tops aren't too sheer, tight, and short. You don't want to make others stumble and fall with your looks. Ask God to point out to you if you have anything against him. Are you causing others to stumble at the way you are dressing or acting? Dress modest. I'm not saying for you to wear skirts at all times, you can wear pants, it's fine, but just be aware and on the look out if they are immodest. They shouldn't be too tight around your hips, rear end, and thighs. Examine yourself and ask yourself these questions, "What will others notice or see? Why do I want to wear this outfit? Why do I like this style?" Prayerfully consider, "Am I truly modest-according to God's standard?"

Modesty is an issue of the heart. A heart of modesty affects every aspect of a woman's life-not just the way she looks, but her attitudes and the way she talks and acts, as well. Keep this in mind, 'What we wear+How we look=A picture of what we believe.

The next time you get dressed for an outing or whatever it is, look at yourself and ask those questions above! Pray to the Lord though, don't just listen to what I say, you need to have a conviction from the Holy Spirit, and not from someone else.