Personal Growth

Civil Service

May 13, 2009 Leave a Comment

itw1 Recently, an interesting case on the news caught my eye. I didn’t know anyone related to it; I didn’t know anything about it. I just found myself reading a live daily blog of what happened in court. This was a murder case. It seemed as though everyone was speculating which way the jury would vote, even myself. When the jury reached its verdict and it was announced, I found myself astounded. I questioned if perhaps they had reached the right decision. Many in the community criticized them because they felt the evidence they saw pointed to the defendant being not guilty.

Then some thoughts came to my mind. Our country has a legal system that affords people the opportunity to be judged by an impartial jury of their peers. This system selects randomly among registered voters to find people to come hear cases. Once they show up for duty, prosecutors and defense attorneys then ask different types of questions to find people who have not had prior knowledge of the particular case or who they feel will be impartial to the alleged offender.

The responsibility

These twelve people did not ask to be given this case. They didn’t choose to be on a jury, and they certainly didn’t want to send a man to prison for life. But they had a civic responsibility to make the best decision they could given the evidence. No matter their decision, they served their community to the best of their abilities and I had no right to criticize them for doing a job that many people don’t want to do. These people who are chosen cannot have any stakes in the outcome of a trial, but by the time it is over it can sometimes affect them for life because of the weight of a decision they had to make.

There are so many jobs in our society to which this relates. Any public or civic service seems to be the first to draw criticism. There is an old saying, “You can please some of the people some of the time, but you can’t please all of the people, all of the time.” Those who criticize someone who is doing their best to serve others should consider how difficult that job may be.

To question, or not

itw3 Occasionally there are times when we must question our system. If it is not tested, we won’t be able to find and fix any problems with it. But questioning and criticizing are completely different. By questioning, we are able to ensure our legal system is set up in a way that serves the public as a whole. Criticizing only creates negativity and doubt in our system and could lead to a lack of trust in and discontent with the system as a whole. If people do not trust the legal system, it makes it harder for our government officials to do their jobs. Police officers would lose the trust of the community, judges would be despised, it would lead to more criminals being left on the street.

Many times people are asked to take on a responsibility within an organization, church, company, or community and then are criticized because of how they perform. Often, those who are quick to criticize are among the last ones who would volunteer to do the job. Perhaps that is another reason for us to be slow to criticize others.

Someone who is making decisions based on the facts and following after the Lord may not be popular among those of the world. But as long as they are doing what is right and just, we should support and respect the decisions they make. And, without criticizing, we should accept their decision because there could be more to the situation than meets the eye.

Beyond public service

This criticism stretches far beyond public service positions. This scenario can be applied to almost any situation. A teacher who must punish a student does not do so because they want to, but if they allow that student to go about breaking the rules, then all students will think they should be allowed to break the rules too. Pretty soon, you have no rules or structure and no learning. That teacher’s responsibility is to make sure he or she creates an environment that allows all students to learn.

A parent does not discipline a child because he or she wants to. But without discipline, a child will not be able to learn right from wrong, and God’s standards of obedience. It is not an easy job to be a parent. When I was growing up, I didn’t understand why my parents disciplined me as much as they did. There are so many days now that I thank God that I had parents who cared enough about me to discipline me. And we should all thank our parents more for caring, because without that caring and teaching, we may end up on the wrong side of the courtroom with twelve jurors deciding our future––or perhaps one Judge, the Lord, deciding our fate without us ever learning to serve Him above all else.

Colossians 3:22: “Servants, obey in all things them that are your masters according to the flesh; not with eye-service, as men-pleasers, but in singleness of heart, fearing the Lord.”

By Sarah Ancheta

Filed Under: In the World

My Mama

May 10, 2009 2 Comments

“I’m becoming my mother!” is often an exclamation a woman can be heard saying at a point in her life where she stops everything and realizes, well, that she is a lot like her mother! I’ve heard it said with a shock and sometimes with a sigh, but as I say it now, I say it with a smile! My mother is the best woman I know, and seeing now that I mirror her in even only a few ways, without even noticing it, is a blessing in disguise.

As you can see in the photo, Mama can be silly sometimes! This is one of my favorite things about her! She might get confused as I’m telling a story, start giggling, and end up asking me to start over, or she might make a funny face at me in the mall, but I love that she can be silly, and still be classy. Never have I seen my mother be wild or inappropriate; she knows how to have a laughter-filled time while keeping a perfect level of respect for herself.

Although we see many women today get the attitude, “I’m Super-Woman; I don’t need anybody and I can get where I want to be all by myself,” I love that my mother doesn’t think like that. She is the perfect example to me of the virtuous woman described in Proverbs 31:10–31. Mama is submissive to my father, who is the good Christian leader of our household. She makes food for the family, cares for each of us, loves each of us, but even more amazingly, she is the same way to everyone else.

I’ve never met a woman who is more caring and sympathetic to those in need. She never brags about the things she does, or makes a point to tell anyone; she just does these things because she wants to be the kind of Christian woman God wants! She bakes bread, cookies, or meals for the sick, widowed, or lonely. She makes cards and sends them to anyone who may need a smile. She will listen to those who just need someone to talk to––and she truly listens! With all these things she does, she remains more humble than you could ever imagine. I am confident that God is very pleased with her, and will continue to do good works through her!

I often think of how wonderful my mother is, and how often I fail to tell her that, or show her how thankful I am. I think back on times when I have failed to be the Christian daughter and young woman God wanted of me. But one thing I know is that only God could have created such a beautiful inside-out, tender-hearted person, and blessed me enough to make her my mother. I could never imagine a day without hearing her voice, asking her advice, or just hugging her. God is incomprehensibly generous and kind to allow me to have a mother like her. I love you, Mama, and I hope and pray that I become more like you every day that God keeps me on this earth.

Please leave a comment below letting us know what you love about the mother, or mother-like figure, in your life.

By Hannah Smith

Filed Under: Generation Gap

A Servant’s Heart

May 8, 2009 Leave a Comment

1 Peter 4:10 “As each one has received a special gift, employ it in serving one another as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.”

h2h3 The above verse is simply saying that we each have a special talent, or gift, so we must use it to the best of our ability, for good, to serve others to glorify God. First Peter 4:11 says, “… whoever serves is to do so as one who is serving by the strength which God supplies; so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belongs the glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen” (emphasis mine). We all have a special, natural ability or capability for certain things. We might have several areas in which we do well. I love being with people of all ages and making them feel at ease. I love cooking and homemaking. When you put all of those together, you have the gift of hospitality! See how easy that is!

Find your talent

Perhaps we have a talent of painting––we could volunteer to do home improvement projects for the elderly, or volunteer for home remodeling at one of the neighborhood charity projects. We could paint crafts and give them as gifts to people. We can use our sewing talents for making things that nursing homes or children’s hospitals need.

We can serve by helping in many ways, such as babysitting free of charge if you love children, or you can read to someone in the nursing home if you love reading. We can rake leaves, plant or water flowers, take a meal to the sick, or write for a Christian magazine! There are all kinds of possible ways to serve and use your talents.

Use your talent

We need to make certain that we use the talents that God gives us. First Timothy 4:14 says, “Do not neglect the spiritual gift within you…” Even when we are young women, we are instructed to serve God by being a good example. First Timothy 4:12 tells us to “Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity.” There might be a younger girl who needs a mentor, and who better than you if you are living a godly example before them.

We are each unique and special and have so much to contribute when we take the time to do so. “Since we have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, each of us is to exercise them accordingly…” (Romans 12:6). God wants us to use the abilities that He blessed us with. He placed us each where He wanted us, even if things seem difficult sometimes. We can grow stronger from our trials and perhaps use those circumstances to know how to help others in that same situation.

h2h5 Ministering to people’s needs is another way to serve. Sometimes people just need someone to talk to, to cry with, or to laugh with. If you have the ability to talk to people easily, or are a great listener, or are compassionate, that would be a good ministry for you to do. Praying for others might be all we can do at times, so pray earnestly. Colossians 1:9 tells us, “For this reason, since the day we have heard of it, we have not ceased to pray for you and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding” (emphasis mine).

Being a good friend is also serving if you are setting a good example. Titus 2:7–8 says, “In all things show yourself to be an example of good deeds with purity in doctrine, dignified, sound in speech which is beyond reproach, so that the opponent will be put to shame, having nothing bad to say about us.”

Glorify God

We serve God in all we do if we glorify Him and do it to the best of our ability; not begrudgingly, but with cheer and joy. Jesus was the best servant of all. We see by His examples in the Bible that He was continually ministering to people, which means He attended to the wants and needs of others. In every example given, that is what Jesus did. He served and ministered to people’s needs. Matthew 4:23: “Jesus was going throughout all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every kind of disease and every kind of sickness among the people.”

Jesus served without taking the credit for Himself. After Jesus cleansed the leper, He told those who witnessed it not to tell anyone (Matthew 8:4). We are also to serve without telling others what we do or bragging about it. We are told, in Matthew 6:3, “But when you give to the poor, do not let your right hand know what your left hand is doing.” If we are serving with the right heart, that of genuinely wanting to help others; then we won’t do it just to receive praise, but to glorify God. Whenever we serve the way God instructs us to serve then we will truly have joy in helping those in need.

By Carol Gartman

Filed Under: Heart to Heart

Church Help

May 5, 2009 Leave a Comment

Q. I really want to help out in my church but I don’t know how. The older women already take care of organizing most projects, like food baskets and visiting, and my youth group hardly does anything. How can I actually do something worthwhile that someone else isn’t already doing?

A. It’s great that you want to help out! Don’t be discouraged by your age; it doesn’t matter how old you are–anyone can accomplish something with a little effort. Also, remember that you don’t have to do something huge for it to be worthwhile and meaningful. A gesture as small as a card during a difficult time can mean so much to a person who really needs it.

One thing you could do is become more involved in the already existing organizations, such as the ladies’ group. You could try speaking to the ladies about including the younger women, such as yourself, in their projects and meetings. As a result, you would be more involved in with the people of your church and could participate in the already existing projects, which sound like good ones to me.

Another idea would be to organize your youth group to do more for the community. For example, you could organize a group project such as yard work for the elderly and planning youth events for area congregations. Think of some of the talents you as an individual possess. Are you artistic? You might be able to make cards for the sick or decorate the church bulletin board. Do you like to organize or lead others? Outline your ideas and get others involved in helping you to realize them. Do you enjoy cooking? Cook dinner or snacks, such as cookies or pies, for shut-ins, funerals, or church dinners, or even busy moms.

agly1 The possibilities granted us by our talents are endless–sometimes we just need to find and develop these gifts. No one lacks the skills required to become involved in something. All that is needed is the desire to aid others and a motivation to do so. The Holy Spirit gives us all the help we need. We must all remember the second greatest commandment given in Matthew 22:35-40: “‘And the second is like it: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself”’ (NKJV). No matter your age or talents, there is always a way you can help others.

By Rachel Conley

Filed Under: A Girl Like You

Make Me a Servant

May 3, 2009 1 Comment

devo2 Hello, ladies! It is now May, and this month we will be asking God to “pierce our hearts to serve.” The main Scripture we want to keep in mind is 1 Peter 4:10—“As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.” We all have people in our lives who have done things for us (and continue to do so). These individuals may have taught us a skill that we use in life, such as how to read. You may be thinking of a parent who has raised you alone, and provided for all your needs. Or, perhaps, there is one person who deeply influenced you in your decision to become a Christian. Just think, what if that person had never taken the time to tell you about God’s love and offer of salvation? What if they had never “ministered” to your wants and needs? Let’s take a deeper look into serving.

Why Should We Serve?

Jesus served. He healed the physically sick (Matthew 12:15, 14:14; Mark 1:34), He was a friend to the spiritually sick (Matt. 9:10-12), and He fed the hungry (Matt. 14:13-21). But He was truly the ultimate Servant when He gave His life on the cross (Acts 3:13; Luke 23:46). There is a devotional song that states, “Make me a servant, Lord, make me like You; for You are a Servant, make me one, too. Make me a servant; do what You must do, to make me a servant; make me like You.” Just knowing our perfect Example was a true servant is enough reason to serve others—and God.

How Should We Serve?

When we are swamped with work, and the phone rings, we usually get frustrated—especially if the phone is hiding and we have to search for it! Is it not like that sometimes when a friend asks for our help? We craft reasons as to why we simply cannot assist them. What if someone called with concerns of being saved? Would we dare say we are “too busy” then? To serve others, we have to put others before ourselves (Phil. 2:3). Realize that we should want to help those in need, especially if their need is spiritual. He calls us to not only serve, but to do it joyfully, not grudgingly or with a desire for recognition. We are told to be humble, as was Christ, and live life as a servant (Matthew 5:5, 23:11-12; Proverbs 29:23; Philippians 2:5; James 4:6, 10, 1 Peter 5:6).

Identify

devo1 The devotional for March 29th in Power for Today, a tri-monthly devotional booklet, addressed how we each possess special gifts and abilities from God. Select lines from 1 Peter 4:10-11 says, “As each one has received a gift…” and “…let him do it as with the ability which God supplies…” (emphasis mine). So, we know each one of us has something we can definitely use for the furtherance of God’s work––a gift He has provided us with. We must discover what that gift is! The book Girl to Girl lists some good ideas for helping out in your home congregation:

Teach Bible classes, or serve as a teacher’s aide.
Clean and cook.
Make and send cards to those struggling, sick, or in need of a friendly hello.
Call those who have not attended in a while, and let them know you miss them.
Volunteer for odd jobs. (Helping with bulletins, making copies, sharpening pencils, updating bulletin boards, etc.)
Help with Vacation Bible School.
Encourage all your brothers and sisters in Christ.

But, of course, you know that there are numerous opportunities to serve outside the church. Do you enjoy writing? Write encouraging notes to the kids at school who are having a tough time. Is there someone in the community who lost their home in a natural disaster? Get some boxes and ask friends if they will donate clothes, food items, or money. It’s easy to find ways to serve when you are on the lookout! Try different ways to serve others, and find things that you enjoy doing, but more importantly, make sure it will help those in need, and most importantly–glorify God (Matt. 5:16).

“No one cares!”

It is a sad fact that there are women who have kindly served others their whole lives, but rarely got a “thank you.” You may feel unappreciated if you are not recognized or praised for a good deed, but always remember that we serve to glorify God. It is greatly encouraging when we are thanked; however, do not let yourself become disheartened if you feel no one cares for your help. Matthew 5:8 says, “Blessed are the pure in heart…” God knows when your intents to serve and help are pure, and you will be blessed for them. He notices when no one else does. In the end, we will get the biggest and best “thank you” ever—a home with Him! (Rev. 2:10b)

Be thankful—USE!

“Every good and perfect gift is from above…” (James 1:17a). Would you not say the unique abilities we each have are good gifts from above? God truly does bless us with all we need to serve Him in serving others. Thank Him (Eph. 5:20) by using your talents to aid others in need! Use your special gifts, and “whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him” (Colossians 3:17).

By Hannah Smith

Filed Under: Devotionals

To Serve Like Him

May 2, 2009 Leave a Comment

“Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms.” 1 Peter 4:10

There is no greater example of a true servant than Jesus Christ Himself. And all through His word, He provides us with examples of what servanthood is and those who demonstrated it. He calls us to be servants to others; however, we are to first and foremost serve Him and serve to please Him (Galatians 1:10). And although we are commanded to serve, He reminds us in Galatians 2:16 that we are justified by faith, not by the many works we may do for Him or others. In this month’s reading, we’ll encounter many servants, each exhibiting servanthood in a unique way.

Jeremiah was a prophet and an earnest servant of God. The book of Jeremiah reveals his inner struggle to continue steadfastly in servicing God by being obedient to Him, even in hardship. The prophet Jeremiah was assigned the unenviable task of confronting others of their sin (Jer. 26). And as a servant of God, he obeyed, even when threatened with death and faced with imprisonment (ch. 37).

In the gospel of Luke, we encounter another obedient servant––John the Baptist. His service was to prepare the way for Christ. He was a great example of what a servant should be, taking no credit for what he was doing, and pointing all attention and glory to God. In chapter 5, Jesus begins calling the twelve apostles, who dropped everything they were doing in order to serve Him. How often can we say that we do the same?

Jesus served others His entire life, but most significantly, He served us in His death. Even though He struggled with this requirement God had placed on Him (Mark 14:36), He is obedient to God, even to death on the cross. Although we can never repay Him or be the true servant He was, He has instructed us on how we should serve. Sometimes our service may require suffering (2 Cor. 11:22–33). Second Corinthians 9:7 tells us to be cheerful givers, which I think also applies to serving. We should do it with a cheerful heart, not begrudgingly or selfishly. We are to serve because that’s what is commanded of us, not comparing ourselves with others and how obedient they are or in what ways they serve (2 Cor. 10:12, 17).

In all the serving we do, we are commanded in Exodus to ultimately serve no other God but the Lord our God (23:25). In everything we do, it is to be to His glory. It can become easy to serve other things and people, even serving service itself! But we must remain focused on our ultimate purpose in serving––in obedience to God, to reflect the Holy Spirit, and to glorify Him.

Suggested Reading for May

dbr1 MAY 1 Jer 22-26
MAY 2 Mark 13-14
MAY 3 2 Cor 4-5
MAY 4 Ex 17-20
MAY 5 2 Sam 5-9
MAY 6 Ps 51-53
MAY 7 Job 35-36
MAY 8 Jer 27-31
MAY 9 Mark 15-16
MAY 10 2 Cor 6-8
MAY 11 Ex 21-24
MAY 12 2 Sam 10-14
MAY 13 Ps 54-56
MAY 14 Job 37-38
MAY 15 Jer 32-36
MAY 16 Luke 1-2
MAY 17 2 Cor 9-10
MAY 18 Ex 25-28
MAY 19 2 Sam 15-19
MAY 20 Ps 57-59
MAY 21 Job 39-40
MAY 22 Jer 37-41
MAY 23 Luke 3-4
MAY 24 2 Cor 11-13
MAY 25 Ex 29-32
MAY 26 2 Sam 20-24
MAY 27 Ps 60-62
MAY 28 Job 41-42
MAY 29 Jer 42-46
MAY 30 Luke 5-6
MAY 31 Gal 1-3

By Lisa Grimenstein

This year’s Bible reading plan was borrowed from Bible-Reading.com. To correspond with the 2009 year, we have included actual dates for your referral. You may choose to use the above site, instead.

Filed Under: Daily Bible Reading

No Mistakes

April 29, 2009 1 Comment

Stock Photo When you look at yourself in the mirror what thoughts come to mind? Do you sometimes think that it wouldn’t hurt to lose a little weight, or that your hair didn’t turn out well? I know that there I times that I think those very thoughts, but let me ask you this: Does it ever cross your mind that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit? (1 Cor. 6:19–20) It can be very hard to grasp this concept, but it’s true––the Holy Spirit lives in each saved member of the church.

God sent His only Son to be sacrificed for all mankind (John 3:16). Now think about that––God sent His only Son to die for you; this is personal! When you confess and repent, you are acknowledging that as the truth and are giving yourself to the Lord. God paid a great price for our lives and our souls. What a great honor and privilege it is to know that we are worth so much to the Lord of lords. We have done nothing to deserve this gift because as Paul writes in Romans 5:8, “But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

I’m not sure if knowing that does the same thing for you as it does for me but after I think about this fact I feel beautiful! I feel strong and bold because the King of kings loves me. I am a sinner, a weak human, but God looked at me and the rest of His creation and saw us as His children. This fact motivates me to cling to Him and to want to show the world what blessings can come to us by giving our lives to the Lord.

There will still be days when I will think that I could look prettier or thinner, but I will never again call myself ugly. That is the challenge that I am making to you today. Always remember that God created us carefully and skillfully, which means that He made no mistakes––we are exactly what He designed us to be! (Psalm 139:13–14). Be proud of God’s handiwork and show the world how beautiful God made you!

By Shelby Garrett

Filed Under: Heart to Heart

Is God Real?

April 23, 2009 1 Comment

Dear Rachel,
How do you know that God is real?
– Stephanie

Stephanie,
Great question! In our own quest to prove the existence of God, a friend and I recently researched this topic together, and here’s what we found.

I. Scientific Evidence

A.Archaeological Evidence

1.Dead Sea Scrolls
The Dead Sea Scrolls consist of roughly 1,000 documents, including texts from the Hebrew Bible, discovered between 1947 and 1979 in eleven caves in and around the Wadi Qumran on the northwest shore of the Dead Sea. The texts are of great religious and historical significance, as they include practically the only known surviving copies of Biblical documents made before 100 AD. Amazingly, they matched exactly with the Bible we have today (Mk. 13:31).

2.Walls of Jericho (Joshua 6:1-20)
It was found with the walls having fallen outward, a feat that architects had previously thought impossible.

3.The Hittites were once thought to be a Biblical legend, until their capital and records were discovered in Bogazkoy, Turkey.

4.It was once claimed there was no Assyrian king named Sargon as recorded in Isaiah 20:1, because this name was not known in any other record. Then, Sargon’s palace was discovered in Khorsabad, Iraq. The very event mentioned in Isaiah 20, his capture of Ashdod, was recorded on the palace walls. What is more, fragments of a stela memorializing the victory were found at Ashdod itself.

B. Natural Evidence

1. Nature
agly3 William Paley, a theologian of the 18th century, became well known for his argument concerning the existence of God based on nature.

The works of nature want only to be contemplated. When contemplated, they have everything within them, which can astonish by their greatness; for, of the vast scale of operation, through which our discoveries carry us, we see an intelligent Power. Every organized natural body, in the provisions which it contains for its sustentation and propagations, testifies a care on the part of the Creator. We are on all sides surrounded by such bodies; examined in their parts, wonderfully curious; compared with one another, no less wonderfully diversified. There is no subject of which, in its full extent, the latitude is so great, as that of natural history applied to the proof of an intelligent Creator (Natural Theology).

God has revealed Himself in nature––a fact that the Bible also supports. In Romans 1:20, Paul writes to acknowledge the evidence of God in nature.

“Since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse” Romans 1:20.

2. The Big Bang Theory
A well-known scientific law is that from nothing, can come nothing. It’s a law, not a theory, which means that it has been proven. The Big Bang theory transgresses their laws. It has never been proven and probably has more evidence against it than for it.

C. Our Bodies

1.Our bodies are too amazing and complex to have happened by chance. Brad Harrub, a neurobiologist, said:

You can’t have a poem without a poet, or a house without a house builder. You can’t have design without an intelligent Designer. The complexity within a cell, the complexity of Earth’s atmospheric conditions, the distances between the planets, everything was put here for a purpose. If we look at the human nervous system, for example, we see that it is composed of billions of cells, and that it was purposely arranged to be able to conduct a nerve signal from one part of the body to the other. On a microscopic level, we see that a single cell has ion-gated channels, voltage-gated channels, and a membrane potential. It was specifically designed to do one thing, carry a nerve impulse from one cell to another. When you look deep inside the cell, you find the DNA, the biological code of life that allows the cell to perpetuate itself. Within the cell, you have an incredibly complex biochemical code, and yet we are expected to believe that it “just happened by chance”? Over and over again, as you look throughout nature, you see what is almost like a “neon arrow” pointing to a Creator, an intelligent Designer. That designer is God.

II. Biblical Evidence

A.The Earth is spherical and hangs on nothing. The Bible recorded these facts long before men commonly regarded them as facts (Job 26:7; Is. 40:22).

B.The Bible also records paths of the water, meaning currents. Matthew Maury (1806-1973) is considered the father of oceanography. He was bed-ridden during a serious illness and asked his son to read a portion of the Bible to him. While listening, he noticed the expression “paths of the sea” in Psalms 8:8. Upon his recovery, Maury took God at His word and went looking for these paths. We are indebted to his discovery of the warm and cold continental currents.

extra7 C.The Bible also reveals the water cycle. The water cycle was not fully understood until about 30 BC by a Roman engineer named Marcus Vitruvius. Yet every aspect of the water cycle was fully revealed in the Old Testament. The Bible’s description is in perfect harmony with modern science (Ecc. 1:6-7; 11:3; Job 26:8; Amos 9:6).

“He wraps up the waters in his clouds, yet the clouds do not burst under their weight” (Job 26:8, NIV).

“He draws up the drops of water, which distill as rain to the streams; the clouds pour down their moisture and abundant showers fall on mankind” (Job 36:27–28, NIV).

“The wind blows to the south and turns to the north; round and round it goes, ever returning on its course. All streams flow into the sea, yet the sea is never full. To the place the streams come from, there they return again” (Ecclesiastes 1:6–7, NIV).

III. God Is Creator

A.We have an intelligent Creator and He is God! (Acts 17:22–26; Gen 1:1)

B.“He is One Who cares for us. He provides for us. He provides for our needs, both physically and spiritually. He sends the rain on the just and the unjust. He sent His Son to die for all who were unjust, that we might become His children. Having the ability to go to live with Him forever in His house is beyond our ability to comprehend. The term ‘Father’ conjures up in our minds the idea of a loving family.” -B.J. Clarke, Minister

IV. Conclusion

A.There are many more examples, both scientific and biblical, that we did not mention.

B.Through scientific, natural, and biblical evidence, God is screaming that He exists. But what does that evidence say about Him? It says that He is an intelligent Designer who is capable of creating and sustaining the universe. It tells us that He is a Creator of amazing organisms and intricate systems. It tells us that He is much greater, and more powerful, than any force we could ever imagine.

Visit ChristianAnswers.net for more archaeological information.
Visit Bible.ca for more scientific information.

Stephanie, we hope this helps you believe He Is, so you can begin or strengthen your relationship with Him.

By: Rachel Conley and Rebekah Davis

Filed Under: A Girl Like You

How does the economy affect you?

April 21, 2009 2 Comments

itw3 Lately it seems all the big news has to do with the word “bailout.” This bailout is the government helping companies find a way out of bad economic decisions, poor spending, and over-inflated salaries for executives. I could go on and on with reasons why this idea is good and bad, but really all of that is too late now as the bailout has already been approved. We just need to pray it is beneficial and productive.

For most, the bailout of these big companies is just another sign of our failing economy. Most of you are probably aware of job cuts, lay-offs, and lack of new job openings. Many people think this economy crunch only affects professionals but that just is not so. Because of job loss in their workplace or simply due to inflated costs, many people are taking part-time jobs that generally attract teenage workers (i.e., jobs at the mall and fast-food services). The economy is also affecting parents’ decisions to hire sitters for the evening. They are favoring staying home rather than hiring the teenager down the street so they can go out.

So, what can a teenager do in these times to get work? Trust me, I feel your pain. I like making my own money, and have the responsibility of paying for my own gas, car insurance, etc. My first advice would be to talk to your parents. Sometimes parents know people or they themselves have things that need done that they would have to pay someone to do anyway. As spring approaches, many people hire landscapers to clean out flower beds, plant flowers, and do yard work. This would be a great way to earn money and it would not cost them as much as it would if they hired a professional landscaper. If you don’t like to work outside, perhaps offer your services for spring cleaning. Most households do a deep cleaning in the early spring. Because so many people are working two or more jobs, they may not have as much time to get this done as they usually would. They also may not have enough money to hire a professional cleaner.

Interview tips

If you have been looking for a job at a business with no luck, don’t get discouraged. Keep your head up and keep applying. I like interviews and am sharing a few tips I have learned along the way:

itw2 1. When turning in your application, always try to talk to the manager on duty. Give them a brief synopsis of yourself and a firm handshake. (If you are willing to work weekends and nights, make sure to mention this.)

2. Dress based on the business. Don’t assume that because you are applying at a fast food joint, you can wear jeans and a t-shirt. In general, be prepared to wear modest business casual clothes for interviews, such as dress pants with a nice shirt (even if it is fast food), unless the job will require business attire, in which case you should wear the same.

3. Keep your hair out of your face. If you have to keep brushing your hair back during the interview, it is distracting to the person you are talking to. And this is especially true if you will be working with food.

4. Do not wear open-toe shoes to an interview. No matter where it is. Once you are hired, if their policy has nothing against them, then you can wear them, but until you know for sure, play it safe and wear shoes that cover your toes––even in the summer.

5. Keep jewelry to an acceptable amount and don’t wear anything too eye catching. No big hoop earrings. A good rule of thumb is to keep the earring within 2-3’’ of the bottom of your earlobe. Wear no more than 1 necklace, 1 bracelet, and 1 ring on each hand. Too much jewelry takes away from what you really want them to pay attention to––you.

6. Do not fidget. I know most of our mothers tell us this a hundred times, but in an interview it is best to keep your hands crossed at the wrist your lap. If you clasp your hands, they may get sweaty if your nervous. By crossing them at the wrist, it allows them to breathe, plus when you stand up, before shaking hands you can gently touch them to your pants or skirt to make sure they are dry.

itw1 7. Be honest. We should never lie, no matter what it is about, but when it comes to getting a job the company is looking for someone to be able to fit well with their organization, meet their job requirements and they also want you to be happy with the job. By lying, it could mean you end up with a job that you aren’t qualified for and end up not liking. This makes you and the company miserable.

8. Be Polite. Use “ma’am”, “sir”, “Mr.”, “Mrs.” And of course “please” and “thank-you”. Always use “yes” or “no”. Using “ya” or “nah” is not appropriate in an interview.

9. Speak clearly and slowly. I know you heart may be pounding, but don’t think you have to speak as quickly as your heart is beating. You want to make sure you are understood. Be thorough yet brief. More doesn’t mean better. The best thing to do is answer the question in its entirety without unnecessary detail. Also, don’t be afraid to ask questions. While it is good to know the basics of what a company does before you go to the interview, it is ok to ask a little more about them. It shows you are interested!

10. Be early. I always make myself leave home at least 5 minutes earlier than needed and walk into the business 4 minutes before my appointment. This way, when I check in I am early, but not to an extreme. No matter what, do not be late! When you arrive, make sure you have a copy of your resume (if you have one), and your ID.

Let’s not forget the One Who paid the biggest debt – Jesus Christ.

“May the LORD reward your work, and your wages be full from the LORD, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to seek refuge.” Ruth 2:12 NASB

By Sarah J. Ancheta

Filed Under: In the World

Recycling with the Family

April 19, 2009 1 Comment

fam1 With all the talk about global warming and hybrid cars, helping the environment is probably never too far from our thoughts these days. Although many people have made environmental issues into political ones, often placing more focus on caring for trees than on caring for human life, we should delight in taking care of this amazing creation that God has given us. Genesis 1:26: “Then God said, ‘Let us make man in our image, in our likeness, and let them rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air, over the livestock, over all the earth, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.’”

One simple way to care for what we’ve been given is to recycle. Some of you may already participate in a recycling program, but if not, this is a great month to start. Talk to you parents about your idea to recycle. You can start out very simply, recycling aluminum cans, paper (including newspaper), and plastic.

Start by locating a place in your home where you can place several bins for recycling (as many bins as there are different categories you want to recycle). Bins can be bought at home improvement stores, or you can use simple trash cans and label them. Try to find a place that is easily accessible, such as a garage, pantry, or laundry room. For ease of use, make the bins different colors and label them clearly (a picture also helps younger children identify in which bin to put things).

Recycling how-to

Now it’s time to start recycling! The main thing to remember is that not everything is recyclable, and that some things must be recycled properly. Below are some helpful tips; more can be found online.

1.Almost all paper can be recycled, but some types are harder to recycle than others. Paper coated with plastic, is waxy, or has glue or gummy residue on it is generally not recycled because the process is too expensive. Gift wrap is not recycled since it is already poor quality. This does not mean, however, that you can’t recycle wrapping paper in good condition by using it again to wrap another gift!

2.Remove the glossy inserts/advertisements from newspapers before recycling; they are made from a different type of paper and are not processed because of their coating.

fam2 3. Clean out aluminum cans with water before tossing them in the recycling bin. Fun Fact: Recycling one aluminum can saves enough energy to run a television for 3 hours!

4. Do not crumple up paper. This is not necessary and takes up more space in the bin.

5. Do not throw out or recycle important documents. Shred any papers that have personal information and/or passwords/ID information on them; then toss.

6.Although labels do not need to be removed from plastic bottles to make them recyclable, lids are often made from a different kind of (non-recyclable) plastic and should be removed. Plastic is often numbered with identification numbers 1–7, telling which kind of plastic it is. Visit obviously.com for more details on which numbers are recyclable.

7.If you are going to recycle glass, make sure that it is somewhere that children cannot get to it, since it could easily break when tossing. Fun Fact: Glass can be recycled indefinitely since its structure doesn’t deteriorate when reprocessed.

Once your bins are full, it’s time to take them to a local recycling center. Visit the Recycling Center to find one in your area. Make sure that all recyclables are organized; even one or two wrong items in a bin could send it all straight to the trash. You may be able to make a little money from some of your recyclables, so check with your center before dropping it off. You can save up your money for a fun family night or to buy something you all want.

Other creative ways to recycle

fam3 There are many other ways you can recycle without having to use a bin system. Here are just a few:

As mentioned before, reuse wrapping paper and gift bags that are still in good condition.
Cut up old cards to use as gift tags.
Use plastic shopping bags for various projects around the house. These can be invaluable––don’t just toss them! If nothing else, see if your local grocery store accepts their bags back.
Use scrap paper for kids’ art projects.
Keep a box of odds and ends handy for craft and science fair projects.
Print unimportant things on both sides of computer printing paper.
Refill ink cartridges, or exchange your old ones for a new one. Many places will give a discount for trade-ins.
Invest in (or find around the house) a good tote bag that can be used for library and grocery trips, or to carry things with you in the car. This will eliminate the constant use of plastic bags.

We are responsible for taking care of our planet, and recycling is just one easy way in which we can get our families involved. It’s never too late to start helping out, and it’s always a great idea to have a project that the entire family can take part in. So gather your family, grab some bins, and get busy caring for God’s beautiful creation!