Is your heart right with God?
That’s a really important question to ask yourself. Do you go to church weekly, with a joyful and worshipful heart? When in the service, do you actually listen to what you’re being taught? Do you go home and read your Bible and think to yourself of what you could work on to make your relationship better with God? When we are saved and Christ’s Spirit lives in us, not only do we have a fresh start, but it also allows us to be forgiven of a past we may be ashamed of. Unfortunately, many people don’t attempt to grow in their relationship with God. Some people just go to church because their family or friends do, but we should be going with a heart that is open to hearing His word, and ready to worship our King.
Forgiveness is key
Sometimes the hardest thing and the right thing are the same. Offering forgiveness to others will not only help you grow in love, but it will also show the person that you don’t expect them to be perfect. They may need your support and love.
We should remember that we are to be imitators of Christ (Rom. 5:1), forgiving others just as He forgives us. All of us sin. As Christians, we should desire to be forgiven. And the only way we can truly forgive others is with God’s help.
Be willing to work
Telling others about God can seem intimidating, but prayerfully seek to build relationships with others so they may be more receptive to hearing about His love. Be an example to them, and look for opportunities to share God’s love.
Love and encourage others, while being careful to not approve of their lifestyle if it’s sinful. Romans 14:12: “So whatever you believe about these things keep between yourself and God. Blessed is the man who does not condemn himself by what he approves.”
Spread the Word
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age” (Matthew 28:19-20). Knowing God’s word and spreading it are two different things. Though you go to church, hear His word, and have other Christians to share it with, it’s also important to share God’s love and His salvation with the people outside your church. Be an example to others, be ready to talk about His love with excitement and joy, and pray that the Holy Spirit will work in their hearts and lead them to Christ.
With Love,
Michelle Jane
Tomorrow (September 26) is National Museum Day! Visit 
I love saving money, and I have a hard time tossing down huge amounts for clothing (Goodwill, anyone?). Now, there are some things that are worth paying a little more for—good-quality classic pieces that will outlast the trends. But especially in this economic climate, and especially when our size is often changing with age, pregnancy, and diet, spending a lot on clothing can be impractical—and unnecessary.
Collect your clothes. Make sure all clothing is in good condition. Items should be clean, without stains and dirt. Don’t even bother bringing clothing with holes, unless the pieces have been well mended. Remember, if you wouldn’t want it, why would anyone else? The reasons for parting with your clothes is because your style and size change, not because they’re unwearable. Also consider including shoes and jewelry—I have had plenty of unworn accessories in the past that could have had a much better home elsewhere.
September 18 is National Play-Doh Day!
Hannah Smith recently sent me the following recipe with this note attached: “I found this ‘Chocolate Chip Cookie Prayer’ paper that I got in a girls’ class at R.U.S.H. at Freed-Hardeman last year. It reminded me of something you and Lily would enjoy together…” Hannah knows us well, as baking is one of Lily’s and my favorite things to do together (and hopefully something Grace will also love as she grows older!).
1 egg
The first public school was founded in Boston, Massachusetts, in April 1635 and all students were required to take three to four years of Latin! Public schools, however, didn’t become mainstream education until the mid 1800s. Most people received their instruction, including college instruction, at home until that time.
Every week for the past two years, with few exceptions, I have faithfully attended…playgroup. Sure, my boys love playing with the other kids. And they learn valuable lessons in sharing and getting along with others. But most importantly, I go because of the moms. This group of women includes some of the most significant friendships I have. Not only can we share in the fun stuff, like couponing and hobbies, but we more importantly share with each other the trials and victories of motherhood and marriage. This is not the typical playgroup, where much time is spent complaining of daily chores and comparing our children’s talents and milestones. We encourage one another, not only in our hard times but also just to be more godly women, wives, and mothers.
Plan the details. In my mom’s group, we have a schedule to alternate houses each week. The hostess always provides a morning treat and coffee for the moms. Decide whether the hostess will provide lunch for moms and/or kids, or if everyone will bring their own. Determine an approximate time when you will finish, or the kids will determine one for you (aka naptime breakdowns). Also, have a plan for the kids. Where will they spend their time? What are the ground rules? It may be a good idea to have moms take shifts to monitor the kids, or to keep kids in the same area as the moms.
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