A WOMAN'S PLACEPART 1 - IN THE HOME

BACK ON SCHEDULE

Please Accept our Apologies for not having our regular blogs.  We thank you for your understanding.

BAREFOOT AND PREGNANT

1 Timothy 5:14 (KJV)

I will therefore that the younger women marry, bear children, guide the house, give none occasion to the adversary to speak reproachfully.  

The above scripture is very controversial as many believe it's speaking to young widows and because of cultural differences there are many who have various understanding of its meaning.  

We will begin a new series on A Woman's Place and invite you to participate throughout the series.  It's open for both men and women to share their views respectfully.  

What is the Apostle Paul saying to you in that verse?

Who was he referring to? 

Should this be a principle and applicable to all women? Why or Why not

TODAY'S FOCUS:  THE ROLE OF MARRIED WOMEN

Reflecting on this particular verse what are your thoughts on the following:

• Should married couples planned their children?
  
  

   (Include in your discussion number of children they will have or use contraceptives etc...) Why or Why not?

• What does it mean to guide the house?  (Give full details to the extent of house planning, designing, her limits etc...)

Remember, please use scriptural references to your answers, and keep in mind the order of God for the household.  Women are to give no occasion to the adversary or any one to speak against them.  

God Bless and Keep the Faith!

Virtuous Jewel

DBP SERIES 2 - PURPOSE

WHY WAS THE WOMAN CREATED?

Genesis 2:20-22

And Adam gave names to all cattle, and to the fowl of the air, and to every beast of the field; but for Adam there was not found an help meet for him.

And the Lord God caused a deep sleep to fall upon Adam, and he slept: and he took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh instead thereof;

And the rib, which the Lord God had taken from man, made he a woman, and brought her unto the man.

The woman was taken out of the man and then brought back to him so he could have a companion that was like him and not like the animals.  

This is an indication that the woman competes the man since a rib which was a part of him was taken out from him.  After the rib was taken out, God closed up the flesh. The fashion and design which we call woman today was designed by God himself to become a companion for Adam.

In verse 20 God recognizes the need of Adam.  The process is magnificent.  Adam was not involved in the process.  As a matter of fact God allowed a deep sleep to fall upon Adam, and while he slept God took one of his ribs.  The design which God formed was a suitable help meet for Him.  

TODAY'S FOCUS:  HELP MEET 

The above scripture denotes that Adam was alone in comparison to the other creatures that God had made so God made him an help meet.

Let's discuss a  few things:

• What do you think the term, "help meet" means?

• In what areas should she provide help?

• Are there limits in what a woman should do or shouldn't do?

• How does a woman complete a man?  (write a brief summary)

Do you think that many of the problems that people face in marriages today is because people no longer value the principles outlined?  

As you engage in the discussion, please base your answers on scriptural values and the true purpose that God intended.  We are aware that cultural differences, society and modern times have altered the structure, but what God says will always stand regardless of men theories.  

Remember, God designed the woman to be a help meet for the man.  She should at all times remember that she was taken out of the man and formed with a part of him. Culture and the world status does not define the purpose but God's word. Regardless of your circumstances do not alter the word.  That 's why it's important to follow God's instructions in choosing a mate.  In that way you can serve the purpose you were created to fulfill.  

God Bless you and Keep the Faith!

Virtuous Jewel

DESIGNED BY PURPOSE SERIES 1 - THE CONSTRUCTION

INTRIGUING DESIGN 

I have often heard ladies say, things like, I wish I was a guy and things of that nature, when faced with monthly issues and other challenges.  But we want to share a series this month on God's special design called Woman.  I pray that you will be inspired and engaged in the discussions of the series.  

Let's start at the beginning when it all happened....

Genesis 2: 18-23

And the Lord God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him.

And out of the ground the Lord God formed every beast of the field, and every fowl of the air; and brought them unto Adam to see what he would call them: and whatsoever Adam called every living creature, that was the name thereof.

And Adam gave names to all cattle, and to the fowl of the air, and to every beast of the field; but for Adam there was not found an help meet for him.

And the Lord God caused a deep sleep to fall upon Adam, and he slept: and he took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh instead thereof;

And the rib, which the Lord God had taken from man, made he a woman, and brought her unto the man.

And Adam said, This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh: she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man

Unlike Adam a woman was not formed from the dust of the earth, but from the bone and flesh of the man.  God took one of His ribs and fashioned and designed you and brought you to the man as a help meet (suitable to complete him).  When God took that rib out he closed up the flesh and did not replace it. 

You my sister are the "support" of the man. We will study this throughout the month, but for now let's look at the design that God purposely intended when he fashioned you.  

TODAY'S FOCUS:  THE CONSTRUCTION

As you reflect back on the above scripture take a look at the construction of the woman.  God created all things and then noticed after He had made man that He was very lonely.  He also realized that none of the animals or creatures He had created were adequate or a suitable help meet for Adam.  He had to go a total different route. He went outside of the ordinary dirt creating to extraordinary to bring out that design.

The You which was called Woman.  

Let's discuss....

What was the process?

What specifically was used to fashion her? (Described in detail)

What does the term, "Bone of my Bones, Flesh of my Flesh" mean to you?

In this controversial topic which has some unique and special intricacies specific to you as a woman you will find every reason to appreciate your fine work of the master creator Himself.  You were not fashion as a dog, monkey or any other animal, but was taken from the man who by the way was formed after the image of God.   

You could ask many questions such as, why didn't He take an arm, a toe, finger or another part to form the woman.  While He must have had His reasons for using a rib, I am excited by the fact that He took a rib.  I see strength, sturdiness, fortitude, durability, toughness and longevity in that particular part.  

There are many things to take note of in the construction and design of the woman.  I see the fact that you were taken next to His heart so man can feel the closeness to their rib and woman.  I also see that you were taken from His side so you could always be at his side as a long lasting support and strength in the bad times and in times of sickness and life's challenges.  

You my sisters and women of all ages, cultures, race and religious backgrounds etc.. were uniquely designed and fashioned.  Today I encourage you to reflect on the construction of who you are and how every detail about you was fashioned unlike the man.   

Today's Assignment: 

Get a sheet of paper and jot down your answer or comment directly on this blog.

Think of yourself as a woman and make a list of the following:

1. All the things that you have in common with a man
2. Things that are different but common
3. Things that are uniquely given specifically and designed for you?

Secondly indicate how you feel about being designed and fashioned by God after reflecting on this post and today's scripture.  

Remember, you were not formed from the dust of the earth but fashioned by God's hand and constructed from His own image and blue print.  You were designed on purpose.  There's no other thing or person fashioned like you except after you reproduce.  

I encourage you to please follow this series and share your thoughts

God Bless You and Keep the Faith!

Virtuous Jewel

 

 

THIS TRIAD CONNECTION IS A POWERFUL ONE

A THREESOME

That topic may create a discomfort because it is often used and applied in a sexual manner.   There is also a threesome as in ":  a golf match in which one person plays his or her ball against the ball of two others playing each stroke alternately." 

However, if you think of it in the following meaning it will enable you to see the depth of the connection we have with our Father and Savior.  

noun - a group of three people engaged in the same activity.

The scripture below also indicates that there is a triad in our relationship with God.  

John 14:20 (KJV)
At that day ye shall know that I am in my Father, and ye in me, and I in you.

That is a powerful illustration of our connection.  Jesus is in the Father, we are in Jesus and Jesus is in us.  That's what makes the strength of the relationship.  

TODAY'S FOCUS:  THE CONNECTION OF A TRIAD

As you relate to the definition of a threesome you will see the importance of unity and harmony. If not there will be a dysfunction in the triad.  

WHAT'S YOUR TAKE ON THE FOLLOWING SCRIPTURE: 

(I have included the KJV and TLB versions for the discussion) Give some examples

Ecclesiastes 4:12 (KJV)

And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken.

Ecclesiastes 4:12 (TLB)

And one standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer; three is even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken.

Isn't that also emphasizing if God be for you who can be against you?

There is also a possibility that it can be broken. 

The possibility will generally come around with your lack of harmony and unity with God and others, but not on God's part.  He has made a covenant with you.

God has given you His word that He will always be with you as long as you have come into a relationship with Him by accepting His son as Lord and Savior and remaining faithful.  

  

THE TRIAD MUST  HAVE CONCORD

Con (to be able) cord - agreement or harmony between people or nations.

It means to be of one mind and heart and have peaceful relations.

As you think on today's topic think on ways and things you can do to stay in harmony with God.

Remember, that Jesus is in the Father, so you must be in Him and He will be in you.  As a three fold chord that cannot easily be broken stay in harmony with God and keep your connection in the triad a powerful one. 

God Bless and always remember to Keep the Faith!

Virtuous Jewel

FOLLOW THE PROCESS

DISCERNING TIME AND PURPOSE

The right process must be followed regardless of your circumstances.  

Ecclesiastes 8:6 (KJV)
Because to every purpose there is time and judgment, therefore the misery of man is great upon him.

Life has many seasons, and all things including our lives have an appointed time.  We will all face the changes that comes with living and dying.  Sometimes investments that were made in good seasons (like purchasing a home or business) may face trying times. You may feel overwhelmed, experiencing anxiety and depression or perhaps even tempted to do things that are not morally or ethically right to be comfortable.  

You are encouraged, however, to keep His command, and you will experience nothing harmful.  You are also wise and able to discern time and purpose. (Ecclesiastes 8: 5 NKJV)

TODAY'S FOCUS:  RIGHT RESOLUTIONS

You should not use your misery, trouble or circumstances as an excuse to do things illegally or engage in any wrong resolutions

Compromising your standards does not resolve your problems, but may just increase your misery.  Here's an example:

A young lady feels lonely and feel the need for a mate.  She also feels that her biological clock is ticking away and wants to hurry the process of marriage to have a baby.  She disregards everything that she knows such as keeping herself pure and not being unequally yoked and rushes into a relationship with someone that she hardly knew.  Before long she gets pregnant and gets married.  The marriage doesn't last very long.  She is now faced with not just being lonely and without a mate again but having to raise a baby on her own.  Her misery is now great as she is overwhelmed by the bills, child care and expenses, trying to complete her education and all of her other day to day struggles.  She has even had bouts of depression.

While this could happen to someone who followed the right process, this story is an analogy of the result of resolving a situation with the wrong cure.  

What are you struggling with today that you are tempted to use the wrong fix?

Your taxes or IRS?

Getting a Job?

Finding a mate?

Getting a loan?

Purchasing a home or business?

Other?

Do not let your integrity become questionable.  Learn to apply wisdom.  Know the right timing and process for what you are experiencing, and even

 though you are overwhelmed you must go through and use the right procedures!

Remember,  even if you are struggling you will experience no harm.  However, discerning that all things have a purpose and timing will ease the misery and allow you to trust that God is in control of all things.  He is faithful and will come through only in His time and in His way!  

God Bless and Keep the Faith!

Virtuous Jewel

OPEN OPPORTUNITY

A POST TO A FRIEND

I posted he following question on my Facebook page today....

If God had a Facebook page and you were His friend what would you post on His page today? 

This question may cause you to raise your eyebrow questioningly and may cause you to say, God have a Facebook page?

But seriously, what would you have written if you had an open opportunity to write on His page?

Would you take the opportunity to complain about your aches and pains?
Would you tell about all the hurt and wrong done to you?
Would you express how angry you are about Him not answering your prayers?
Would you begin to ask for things on your "I need this or that list"?

OR

Would you just want to praise and worship Him
Would you thank Him for the good and the bad because He has never left your side?
Would you tell Him how much you appreciate and Love Him?
Would you thank Him for dying on the cross just for you?
Would you tell Him that you trust Him and believe in Him?
Would you express your desire to serve Him?

How about other opportunities that come to you?

TODAY'S FOCUS:  OPPORTUNITY KNOCKS

There are many scriptures that present opportunities.  Some maybe opportunities in disguise.  There are those that allows you to accept the Lord as you personal Savior, share the love of God with others, reflect stewardship and investment and so many others.  

Here are a few scriptural opportunities to ponder on:

Salvation:  Revelation 3: 20
Kindness: Luke 10: 30-37 
Investment:  Matthew 25: 14-30
Dinning:  Luke 14: 16-24

There are many other opportunities that are opened and available to you in the word.  Can you think of some are available to you? (ministry, relationship, service etc..)

Remember, make good use of the opportunities that present itself to you today.  Some opportunities may only knock once because tomorrow is not promise.  Other opportunities come with a warning to save your life as in the preaching of Noah.  Be watchful also of opportunities that come with compromise.  Be faithful and seek God's counsel for each opportunity, but don't be a fool.  Make the most of every opportunity you have for doing good. (Ephesians 5: 15-16)

God Bless and Keep the Faith!

Virtuous Jewel

HUMAN EXPERIENCES

God Still Governs Human Experiences

1. This morning I woke up to the hymn, I Need Thee Every Hour in my spirit....
2. As you reflect on the hymn the verses reflects human experiences, but God has a word for every experience.  
3. 
   
4. Look up the scriptures applicable to your situation of need in each verse below:
5. 
   
6. I need Thee every hour, most gracious Lord;
   No tender voice like Thine can peace afford. (Peace - Isaiah 26:3)
   • Refrain:
     I need Thee, oh, I need Thee;
     Every hour I need Thee;
     Oh, bless me now, my Savior,
     I come to Thee.
7. I need Thee every hour, stay Thou nearby;
   Temptations lose their pow’r when Thou art nigh. (Temptation - 1 Cor 10:13)
8. I need Thee every hour, in joy or pain;
   Come quickly and abide, or life is vain. (Pain - Psalms 103:3)
9. I need Thee every hour; teach me Thy will;
   And Thy rich promises in me fulfill. (God's Will - Romans 12:2) 
10. I need Thee every hour, most Holy One;
    Oh, make me Thine indeed, Thou blessed Son. (Thine Indeed - Isaiah 43:1)
11. Keep singing and call on Him for He will come when you call.  

1. TODAY'S FOCUS:  TEMPTATION LOSE THEIR POWER
2. Today many people are challenged with many temptations that overwhelm them. Some are addicted and cannot seem to get the victory.  But...THERE IS HOPE!
3. Faced with temptations?  Take a look at the verse below. The Phillips version expresses it very simply and states that God can be trusted and will not allow you to be tempted beyond your powers of endurance.  (read the various versions)

1 Corinthians 10: 13 (PHILLIPS)
No temptation has come your way that is too hard for flesh and blood to bear. But God can be trusted not to allow you to suffer any temptation beyond your powers of endurance. He will see to it that every temptation has a way out, so that it will never be impossible for you to bear it.

As you read and digest the above let's discuss:

• Are you experiencing temptations and or bound to any addictions?
• What are your reasons or excuses for not being victorious? (Who do you blame?)
• Do you see a way out?  (What routes of escape are available?)

Ask yourself.... Can I trust God to help me and take the escape he has made?

One may say, I can't resist the temptation or I can't say no.  Some may even use scriptures like what the Apostle Paul wrote of in the following scripture to justify their actions. 

Romans 7: 19,21

For the good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do.

I find then a law, that, when I would do good, evil is present with me.

They may even point out others in the bible who were tempted like David and others, but one must take accountability and acknowledge what Paul himself acknowledge in verse 20 - Now if I do that I would not, it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me; and what David also acknowledged in Psalm 51:3 - For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me.

Know that there is a cure in 1 John 1:9 (KJV)

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousnes 

Remember, God still governs the human experience.  You must believe that there is no temptation that you cannot overcome, because God has already promised you a way out. Will you trust Him to help you escape today? You can resist with the word and prayer.  Acknowledge and confess your areas of weakness, and believe that you are cleansed from all unrighteousness.  With Him in your life you can walk in righteousness and victory every day.  

God Bless you and Keep the Faith!

Virtuous Jewel