I sometimes wonder what it will take for young women and girls to believe that they are precious jewels, made in the hands of a loving God, who wants to give them as a shining gift to a godly man. Why is it that parents have to tell their girls "don't wear that" or "you're not allowed to wear that"?? Why do "Christian" females even want to give into the desire to be desirable? Why would a lady choose to dress in a way that shows off skin that should be reserved for her husband? I just don't understand. I did it, but I think my parents were more restrictive on my clothing 10-14yrs ago than many "Christian" mothers allow of their daughters today.
What has changed? Why have standards of modestly lowered amongst believers? Why do girls think that showing off their cleavage and their entire skin-covered bodies is an appropriate thing to do? Minus stips of material to minimally cover their most private areas, most girls, including those who claim to be "Christian" are willing to show off their bodies to the world. It is a socially accepted practice; I get that. However, it doesn't make it RIGHT.
Psalm 86:11 says, "Teach me your ways, O LORD, that I may live according to your truth! Grant me purity of heart, so that I may honor you."
God wants us to know Him in a deep and intimate way. I believe that when we make choices to protect our bodies. I grew up knowing it wasn't appropriate for young men to touch me in sexual ways and that sexual initmacy was reserved for marriage. What I didn't know what how important it was to protect myself way before it go to that point. How we dress will reveal how we believe in protecting our purity as young ladies and women. I believe that the majority of our skin is to be reserved for our husbands(whomever that may be and whenever the Lord brings him into your life in the future). Your husband will treasure you and cherish you for your purity. It is the greatest gift you can give to him. I am not just talking about sexual purity. I am talking about keeping your butt covered, cleavage hidden, and you belly beneath your shirt. The reason girls show off these areas is to attract boys and to feel desirable.
"How is a person supposed to swim with a shirt and shorts on?" you might say.
Well, to that I say, buy a one-piece bathing suit that covers your mid-section, chest, and butt. Problem solved! You don't need to wear a bikini. Here's somthing to think about...
Proverbs 16:2
All the ways of a man are pure in his own eyes, But the LORD weighs the spirits.
So you might not think there's anything wrong with showing off a lot of skin if you are not flirting with boys, but does that make it right?
Psalm 18:26
With the pure You will show Yourself pure; And with the devious You will show Yourself shrewd.
Joshua 24:23
“Now therefore,” he said, “put away the foreign gods which are among you, and incline your heart to the LORD God of Israel.”
My heart weaps for every female I see who does not appreciate the gift she was made to be and when I see her flaunting that which is meant to be sacred. My heart weaps for her to not know the blessings of waiting and protecting herself. Every girl wants to be wanted. I have been there; I was one of those girls. But I waited. I protected (not enough sometimes). I was shunned. I was mocked. I was often left out. I did not run to the Lord as much as I could or should have, but I did enough of it to keep me going.
I chose the high, narrow, unpopular road and it has led to far greater everlasting riches and blessings. Oh sweet girl, if I could look into your eyes right now I would tell you that you are beautiful, that God loves you, and that NO GUY is going to appreciate that which you are presenting in front of him unless he is God-fearing and puts a ring on your finger. My husband has thanked me for staying pure because I have given my all to him, though I wish it were more. Talk about amazing! Trust God, He knows what He's doing when His Spirit convicts you to COVER UP. I love you, yet I don't know who reads this, if anyone. I just know I have a deep burden for you and want you to know that God is good, even when life is not.
Psalm 139 says this,
"O Lord, You have searched me and known me.
You know my sitting down and my rising up;
You understand my thought afar off...
Even there Your hand shall lead me,
And Your right hand shall hold me...
How precious also are Your thoughts to me, O God!
How great is the sum of them!
If I should count them, they would be more in number than the sand."
Read the whole chapter of Psalm 139 yourself and believe God.
He loves you and wants the BEST for you!
"Who can find a virtuous woman? For her worth is far above rubies." ~Proverbs 31:10
Showing posts with label Dating. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Dating. Show all posts
Thursday, April 12, 2012
Thursday, January 19, 2012
A Quote about who you are
"I want to be cherished, not preyed upon" -C.B.
What does this mean to you? I'd love your feedback.
What does this mean to you? I'd love your feedback.
Saturday, January 29, 2011
Pamela's Prayer
Tonight I watched a movie called Pamela's Prayer.
This is a summary: It is the story of a widowed Christian father and his Christian daughter Pamela. Under Godly conviction, the father lovingly raises his daughter following Biblical principles—preparing her for marriage and a Godly life. Each and every night he intercedes in prayer for her.
During the teen years, her girlfriend has gone out with anyone she wants. But Pamela and her father are following a non-dating path. As a teenager, Pamela sometimes rebels at her father's guidance—using the usual teen arguments—even sneaking out once. This heart-warming story shows the truth of the pain that can be avoided by following a straighter path than the world. In the end, she is overjoyed with the fruit of purity and develops even higher love and respect for her father and his kind, prayerful guidance.
This timely movie does not attempt to discuss all of the issues related to purity, dating or courting. Nor does it specifically mention the courtship-like approach that is increasingly popular among Christians today. What it does accomplish is a skillful weaving of Biblical principles, righteous living, and love of family that produces a story that touches the heart and soul. This movie's approach is soft and respectful, rather than fast-paced and flashy. Never pushy or judgmental, the message is presented with kindness and love.
Let me just say that if you are a young girl, abstinant or not...Christian or not, I strongly encourage you to watch this movie as an encouragement to you that it IS worth waiting until marriage for more than just having sex--for purity as a whole. It also shows that a life like Pamela's is realistic, despite what your friends, co-workers, classmates, TV, other movies, magazines, or even your parents might have to say about it.
"Dating" does not help you find the right person--GOD DOES!
This is a summary: It is the story of a widowed Christian father and his Christian daughter Pamela. Under Godly conviction, the father lovingly raises his daughter following Biblical principles—preparing her for marriage and a Godly life. Each and every night he intercedes in prayer for her.
During the teen years, her girlfriend has gone out with anyone she wants. But Pamela and her father are following a non-dating path. As a teenager, Pamela sometimes rebels at her father's guidance—using the usual teen arguments—even sneaking out once. This heart-warming story shows the truth of the pain that can be avoided by following a straighter path than the world. In the end, she is overjoyed with the fruit of purity and develops even higher love and respect for her father and his kind, prayerful guidance.
This timely movie does not attempt to discuss all of the issues related to purity, dating or courting. Nor does it specifically mention the courtship-like approach that is increasingly popular among Christians today. What it does accomplish is a skillful weaving of Biblical principles, righteous living, and love of family that produces a story that touches the heart and soul. This movie's approach is soft and respectful, rather than fast-paced and flashy. Never pushy or judgmental, the message is presented with kindness and love.
Let me just say that if you are a young girl, abstinant or not...Christian or not, I strongly encourage you to watch this movie as an encouragement to you that it IS worth waiting until marriage for more than just having sex--for purity as a whole. It also shows that a life like Pamela's is realistic, despite what your friends, co-workers, classmates, TV, other movies, magazines, or even your parents might have to say about it.
"Dating" does not help you find the right person--GOD DOES!
Sunday, January 23, 2011
In Search of Mr. Right by Keith Green
In Search Of Mr. Right
January 01, 2005
by Keith Green
Introduction
This is not meant to be a whole treatise on the subjects of dating and marriage. There have been more scholarly and complete articles, even whole books, written on these subjects. My purpose here is to point out some principles of the Word of God that are being neglected by the Church today.
January 01, 2005
by Keith Green
Introduction
This is not meant to be a whole treatise on the subjects of dating and marriage. There have been more scholarly and complete articles, even whole books, written on these subjects. My purpose here is to point out some principles of the Word of God that are being neglected by the Church today.
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Purity: "Happily Ever After"
What is "purity"?
According to Merriam-Webster, it is the quality or state of being pure.
According to Dictionary.com it is...
–noun
What is "pure"?
According to Merriam-Webster, it is...
–adjective, pur·er, pur·est.
Answers in Genesis has a great article that talks about purity and a program called Happily Ever After. Happily Ever After, started by Julie Hintz, is an educational program designed to inspire students to save sex until marriage and to equip parents to guide and protect them.
The article says, "Purity—it’s much more than just saving sex for marriage. It’s a way of life. In 1 Timothy 4:12–16, the Apostle Paul instructed Timothy, the young preacher, to strive for purity in all areas of his life—including speech, conduct, love, and faith—so that Timothy’s ministry would not be despised by his hearers. Today’s generation of young believers desperately needs to be inspired to live pure lives—to be a remnant of purity in their generation and bring glory to their Creator and Savior."
"...purity is the foundation for a God-honoring marriage..."
Biblical stories of reference are
■Become educated. For many, when it comes to sex, trying to guide our children toward a healthy future is like the blind leading the blind.
■Share the blessings you have received from abstaining or the consequences you have suffered from partaking. If you did partake, ask God to show you why He has placed sex within the protection and exclusivity of marriage. Fully understanding the blessing that obedience brings will motivate you to regain those blessings for your children.
■Have a vision for your child, grandchild, youth group, etc. Paint a picture of a healthy future for him or her. Keep that vision squarely before your eyes and weigh every decision against it. Be strong for your children by developing a reminder such as “Hate me now, thank me later.” They will thank you.
■Speak up against pornography and promiscuity. Speak up for the beauty of sex as God intended. Applaud television shows that promote married, monogamous sex. Turn off television shows that promote unmarried sex.
Read the entire article HERE. Visit the Happily Ever After website for more information HERE.
According to Merriam-Webster, it is the quality or state of being pure.
According to Dictionary.com it is...
–noun
- the condition or quality of being pure; freedom from anything that debases, contaminates, pollutes, etc.: the purity of drinking water.
- freedom from any admixture or modifying addition.
- ceremonial or ritual cleanness.
- freedom from guilt or evil; innocence.
- physical chastity; virginity.
- freedom from foreign or inappropriate elements; careful correctness: purity of expression.
- Optics. the chroma, saturation, or degree of freedom from white of a given color.
- cleanness or spotlessness, as of garments.
According to Merriam-Webster, it is...
- unmixed with any other matter <pure gold>
- free from dust, dirt, or taint <pure springwater>
- spotless, stainless; free from harshness or roughness and being in tune —used of a musical tone
- of a vowel : characterized by no appreciable alteration of articulation during utterance
- being thus and no other : sheer, unmitigated <pure folly>
- abstract, theoretical <pure research>
- a priori <pure mechanics>
- not directed toward exposition of reality or solution of practical problems <pure literature>
- being nonobjective and to be appraised on formal and technical qualities only <pure form>
- free from what vitiates, weakens, or pollutes
- containing nothing that does not properly belong
- free from moral fault or guilt
- marked by chastity : continent
- of pure blood and unmixed ancestry
- homozygous in and breeding true for one or more characters
- ritually clean
- having exactly the talents or skills needed for a particular role <a pure shooter in basketball>
–adjective, pur·er, pur·est.
- free from anything of a different, inferior, or contaminating kind; free from extraneous matter: pure gold; pure water.
- unmodified by an admixture; simple or homogeneous.
- of unmixed descent or ancestry: a pure breed of dog.
- free from foreign or inappropriate elements: pure Attic Greek.
- clear; free from blemishes: pure skin.
- (of literary style) straightforward; unaffected.
- abstract or theoretical (opposed to applied): pure science.
- without any discordant quality; clear and true: pure tones in music.
- absolute; utter; sheer: to sing for pure joy.
- being that and nothing else; mere: a pure accident.
- clean, spotless, or unsullied: pure hands.
- untainted with evil; innocent: pure in heart.
- physically chaste; virgin.
- ceremonially or ritually clean.
- free of or without guilt; guiltless.
- independent of sense or experience: pure knowledge.
- Biology, Genetics.
- homozygous.
- containing only one characteristic for a trait.
- Phonetics. monophthongal.
Answers in Genesis has a great article that talks about purity and a program called Happily Ever After. Happily Ever After, started by Julie Hintz, is an educational program designed to inspire students to save sex until marriage and to equip parents to guide and protect them.
The article says, "Purity—it’s much more than just saving sex for marriage. It’s a way of life. In 1 Timothy 4:12–16, the Apostle Paul instructed Timothy, the young preacher, to strive for purity in all areas of his life—including speech, conduct, love, and faith—so that Timothy’s ministry would not be despised by his hearers. Today’s generation of young believers desperately needs to be inspired to live pure lives—to be a remnant of purity in their generation and bring glory to their Creator and Savior."
"...purity is the foundation for a God-honoring marriage..."
Biblical stories of reference are
- Cain in Genesis 4 to teach a basic principle of Scripture: If we live life God’s way, we will be blessed, but if we stubbornly insist on living it our own way, sin will have its way with us.
- The story of Esau found in Genesis 25:19–34 and Genesis 27 illustrates the ability to look ahead and anticipate the consequences of our actions. ...adolescents often “despise their virginity because they do not understand how precious it is until after they have squandered it.
- the story of Joseph found in Genesis 37–50 to show that God blesses patience and obedience. Joseph’s story gives encouragement to the young man who is being called ‘gay’ because he has chosen to exercise sexual restraint. It also encourages the young woman who is dumped by her boyfriend because she will not give him what belongs to her future husband.
■Become educated. For many, when it comes to sex, trying to guide our children toward a healthy future is like the blind leading the blind.
■Share the blessings you have received from abstaining or the consequences you have suffered from partaking. If you did partake, ask God to show you why He has placed sex within the protection and exclusivity of marriage. Fully understanding the blessing that obedience brings will motivate you to regain those blessings for your children.
■Have a vision for your child, grandchild, youth group, etc. Paint a picture of a healthy future for him or her. Keep that vision squarely before your eyes and weigh every decision against it. Be strong for your children by developing a reminder such as “Hate me now, thank me later.” They will thank you.
■Speak up against pornography and promiscuity. Speak up for the beauty of sex as God intended. Applaud television shows that promote married, monogamous sex. Turn off television shows that promote unmarried sex.
Read the entire article HERE. Visit the Happily Ever After website for more information HERE.
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
What will a girl take?!
On July 3rd I was at a 4th of July celebration in a fairly small town (there was, at most, 200 people in attendance). I was walking about the grounds on several occasions during the day and saw a lot of high school students. However, my eye kept stopping on one particular high school "couple". They laughed, they cuddled, they held hands, they talked...but one thing that they did really stuck out to me.
For the sake of privacy, I will call them Todd and Kelly.
Every so often I would see Todd be "playful" with Kelly. He would push her, push her, and knock her down onto her butt. The whole time, Kelly would be laughing.
Can you tell what is ok with this? Can you tell me what's wrong with this?
"It's affection" someone might say. "They are just "messin' or playin' around," someone else might say.
I have to know: Since when it is ok for a guy to push a young woman (a.k.a. "girl")? Since when is it ok for him to knock her to the ground and humiliate her for the sake of "playing around"? Since when is it ok for a young woman to tolerate any guy who does that on purpose?
I could not help but feel sorry for Kelly. She was tolerating a relationship where a guy was expressing his dominance. There is no respect there. One minute they were hugging and displaying typical high school affection. The next minute Todd was pushing Kelly onto her butt.
So my big question is this: WHY IS KELLY STILL "DATING" TODD AFTER THE FIRST INTENTIONAL PUSH?
I also want to know why would Kelly laugh about being pushed to the ground? Who is to say Todd wouldn't do it again or do it harder the next time? Kelly, is the attention really worth it?
Most every girl wants attention from a guy. And it feels good when a guy likes you, doesn't it? He holds your hand, hugs you, and makes you feel close to him and cared for. Let's face it: it is in our blood, as girls, to long for affection, to be special to someone, and to have attention from a guy. It can make us feel important and that we mean something to someone.
If I were having a 1-on-1 conversation with Kelly, I might ask her about her family and her home life. That would give me an idea about why she is in the type of relationship she is in. I have found that girls who have fathers that are active in their lives and respect their daughters, tend to have relationships with friends, families, guys, and co-workers that are also respectful.
Do girls want respect or do they only want attention? I saw no respect from Todd to Kelly, but I saw Kelly get up off the ground and wrap her arms back around Todd. By doing this, she told him with her body language that it's ok for him to push her around (whether or not she likes it). When he was playfully pushing her away, it didn't matter to her because she would get back up and be his #1 girl again. If she was hurt inside, it didn't show. If she felt he was being rude, she didn't bat an eye. If she wanted him to show affection, she was getting it, but just the wrong kind.
As young women, we need to know who we are so that we can have confidence in ourselves. That confidence will produce self-respect. Self-respect will help us to choose meaningful and respectful relationships.
When I was in high school, I was so attracted to guys that I don't know why my parents ever let me out of the house. I was always looking at guys and sizing them up to be a potential boyfriend. One of the biggest red flags for me was if I ever saw a guy push a girl. I knew that if a guy pushed a girl, even playfully, that he had the great potential to do it when he was mad (such as in an argument, which EVERYONE has). I didn't want to be pushed around in any type, shape, or form.
That's NOT love or a respectful display of affection! That goes for girls also and pushing or hitting guys. Seriously, tell me one guy who is flattered by a girl who hits him, even if it is meant to be playful?!?!
Ephesians 5:28-29 says, "So husbands ought to love their own wives as their own bodies; he who loves his wife loves himself. For no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as the Lord does the church."
Ephesians 5:33 says, "Nevertheless let each one of you in particular so love his own wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband."
I realize this passage is talking about married people, but if you look at it as between any guy and any girl, the principle of respect still applies. If a man is to love his wife as he loves himself, do you think a man would want or like to be pushed down? Certainly NOT! So why is it ok for a guy to push a girl? If a man is NOT pushing down his wife, then he deserves respect.
In regards to dating, if a guy ever pushes a girl, she should be stamped on the forhead as "UNDATEABLE!!", meaning you DON'T date him. You deserve to be respected, held high, esteemed, and cherished. Poor Kelly will get none of those things from Todd by tolerating his abuse. Even if she told him that she didn't like it, unless he stops after she tells him to, then it will NEVER stop.
Esteem means to be held in high regard. It is your worth and value to someone.
Respect is to to hold in esteem or honor, to show regard or consideration for, and to refrain from intruding upon or interfering with.
1 Peter 2:17 says "Honor all people. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the king."
1 Peter 3:7 says "Husbands, likewise, dwell with them with understanding, giving honor to the wife, as to the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life, that your prayers may not be hindered."
Can you see the pattern of respect in these verses? Can you see that it should be given and, therefore, received?
It might be difficult to end a relationship like Kelly and Todd's, depending on how deep into they are. If they did, Kelly would have a better chance at finding someone who would respect her, honor her, be kind to her, and appreciate her. She might be heart-broken from breaking up with Todd, but it would save her a lot of stress and save her from serious physical abuse down the road.
God cares about our hurts, ladies. He doesn't want to see us suffer. The Bible says in Matthew 11:28, "Come unto me all you that labor and are heavy burdened and I will give you rest." He wants to wrap us in his arms when we are hurting and comfort us.
1 Peter 5:7 says to "Cast all your cares upon him; for he cares for you." That is sooooo true!!! When we release the control over our emotions to God, He helps us to know how to deal with them.
For Kelly, casting off her emotions to God would allow her the strength to break up with Todd, to emotionally detatch from him, and to move on in life. God would be able to guide her about when to put her heart out there & when to hold it back. He would give her wisdom to know what guys to talk to and which ones to stay far away from.
Ladies, you deserve to be respected. You deserve to be cherished. You deserve to be held in high regard and high esteem. You deserve friends who will build you up and encourage you, yet help you in areas you need to improve (I'm not talking about what makeup or clothes you wear. I'm talking about character.). You deserve to know and believe that you were created special and unique for a purpose. You are never alone unless you choose to be a lone.
I pray that you will see how beautiful you are inside and out. I pray that you will believe that you deserve respect and that you will seek out relationships that bring you that. I pray that you will know that if no one in your life makes you feel loved, that you will know in your heart that God loves you and that I love you!
If you are dating a guy who is not showing respect to you publicly and privately and you wish to break it off, ask for help from a trusted adult and support from friends. Remember, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me," Philippans 4:13
For the sake of privacy, I will call them Todd and Kelly.
Every so often I would see Todd be "playful" with Kelly. He would push her, push her, and knock her down onto her butt. The whole time, Kelly would be laughing.
Can you tell what is ok with this? Can you tell me what's wrong with this?
"It's affection" someone might say. "They are just "messin' or playin' around," someone else might say.
I have to know: Since when it is ok for a guy to push a young woman (a.k.a. "girl")? Since when is it ok for him to knock her to the ground and humiliate her for the sake of "playing around"? Since when is it ok for a young woman to tolerate any guy who does that on purpose?
I could not help but feel sorry for Kelly. She was tolerating a relationship where a guy was expressing his dominance. There is no respect there. One minute they were hugging and displaying typical high school affection. The next minute Todd was pushing Kelly onto her butt.
So my big question is this: WHY IS KELLY STILL "DATING" TODD AFTER THE FIRST INTENTIONAL PUSH?
I also want to know why would Kelly laugh about being pushed to the ground? Who is to say Todd wouldn't do it again or do it harder the next time? Kelly, is the attention really worth it?
Most every girl wants attention from a guy. And it feels good when a guy likes you, doesn't it? He holds your hand, hugs you, and makes you feel close to him and cared for. Let's face it: it is in our blood, as girls, to long for affection, to be special to someone, and to have attention from a guy. It can make us feel important and that we mean something to someone.
If I were having a 1-on-1 conversation with Kelly, I might ask her about her family and her home life. That would give me an idea about why she is in the type of relationship she is in. I have found that girls who have fathers that are active in their lives and respect their daughters, tend to have relationships with friends, families, guys, and co-workers that are also respectful.
Do girls want respect or do they only want attention? I saw no respect from Todd to Kelly, but I saw Kelly get up off the ground and wrap her arms back around Todd. By doing this, she told him with her body language that it's ok for him to push her around (whether or not she likes it). When he was playfully pushing her away, it didn't matter to her because she would get back up and be his #1 girl again. If she was hurt inside, it didn't show. If she felt he was being rude, she didn't bat an eye. If she wanted him to show affection, she was getting it, but just the wrong kind.
As young women, we need to know who we are so that we can have confidence in ourselves. That confidence will produce self-respect. Self-respect will help us to choose meaningful and respectful relationships.
When I was in high school, I was so attracted to guys that I don't know why my parents ever let me out of the house. I was always looking at guys and sizing them up to be a potential boyfriend. One of the biggest red flags for me was if I ever saw a guy push a girl. I knew that if a guy pushed a girl, even playfully, that he had the great potential to do it when he was mad (such as in an argument, which EVERYONE has). I didn't want to be pushed around in any type, shape, or form.
That's NOT love or a respectful display of affection! That goes for girls also and pushing or hitting guys. Seriously, tell me one guy who is flattered by a girl who hits him, even if it is meant to be playful?!?!
Ephesians 5:28-29 says, "So husbands ought to love their own wives as their own bodies; he who loves his wife loves himself. For no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as the Lord does the church."
Ephesians 5:33 says, "Nevertheless let each one of you in particular so love his own wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband."
I realize this passage is talking about married people, but if you look at it as between any guy and any girl, the principle of respect still applies. If a man is to love his wife as he loves himself, do you think a man would want or like to be pushed down? Certainly NOT! So why is it ok for a guy to push a girl? If a man is NOT pushing down his wife, then he deserves respect.
In regards to dating, if a guy ever pushes a girl, she should be stamped on the forhead as "UNDATEABLE!!", meaning you DON'T date him. You deserve to be respected, held high, esteemed, and cherished. Poor Kelly will get none of those things from Todd by tolerating his abuse. Even if she told him that she didn't like it, unless he stops after she tells him to, then it will NEVER stop.
Esteem means to be held in high regard. It is your worth and value to someone.
Respect is to to hold in esteem or honor, to show regard or consideration for, and to refrain from intruding upon or interfering with.
1 Peter 2:17 says "Honor all people. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the king."
1 Peter 3:7 says "Husbands, likewise, dwell with them with understanding, giving honor to the wife, as to the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life, that your prayers may not be hindered."
Can you see the pattern of respect in these verses? Can you see that it should be given and, therefore, received?
It might be difficult to end a relationship like Kelly and Todd's, depending on how deep into they are. If they did, Kelly would have a better chance at finding someone who would respect her, honor her, be kind to her, and appreciate her. She might be heart-broken from breaking up with Todd, but it would save her a lot of stress and save her from serious physical abuse down the road.
God cares about our hurts, ladies. He doesn't want to see us suffer. The Bible says in Matthew 11:28, "Come unto me all you that labor and are heavy burdened and I will give you rest." He wants to wrap us in his arms when we are hurting and comfort us.
1 Peter 5:7 says to "Cast all your cares upon him; for he cares for you." That is sooooo true!!! When we release the control over our emotions to God, He helps us to know how to deal with them.
For Kelly, casting off her emotions to God would allow her the strength to break up with Todd, to emotionally detatch from him, and to move on in life. God would be able to guide her about when to put her heart out there & when to hold it back. He would give her wisdom to know what guys to talk to and which ones to stay far away from.
Ladies, you deserve to be respected. You deserve to be cherished. You deserve to be held in high regard and high esteem. You deserve friends who will build you up and encourage you, yet help you in areas you need to improve (I'm not talking about what makeup or clothes you wear. I'm talking about character.). You deserve to know and believe that you were created special and unique for a purpose. You are never alone unless you choose to be a lone.
I pray that you will see how beautiful you are inside and out. I pray that you will believe that you deserve respect and that you will seek out relationships that bring you that. I pray that you will know that if no one in your life makes you feel loved, that you will know in your heart that God loves you and that I love you!
If you are dating a guy who is not showing respect to you publicly and privately and you wish to break it off, ask for help from a trusted adult and support from friends. Remember, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me," Philippans 4:13
Thursday, May 13, 2010
8 Terrific Topics for Conversation
8 Terrific Topics for Conversation
Reviewed by QualityHealth's Medical Advisory Board
Recent vacations. Talking about a trip you took could quite naturally then segue into crazy (and humorous) travel experiences you've had, or a trip that you've both taken and that you both really enjoyed.
A hobby you love. "This is a great way to connect," Kaiser says. "You may find that you both love going for long walks or something else that you might enjoy doing together..."
A recent news story...as long as it's not too politically or emotionally charged. You don't necessarily want to start talking about national politics, health care reform, or who you voted for in the last Presidential election. But if it's about a new smart phone application, the latest shenanigans of some celebrity, or some interesting sports news, that's perfectly okay.
What's happening around you. "I don't mean what is going on between the two of you, but with other people," Kaiser says. "Say you are in a restaurant and the waiter has an unusual quirk, or the menu is way too large. This might give you something to laugh about. You are trying to connect with the person on different levels." Talking about your surroundings and seeing if the other person has similar responses to a situation may clue you in as to whether the two of you share a similar sense of humor, and this can be very important in a longterm relationship.
A movie you have seen or want to see. Discussing a film keeps the conversation light at the same time that it lets you figure out if you have similar tastes and interests in cultural areas. And if there's a movie that you have both been wanting to see, it could make a great destination for your next date.
Siblings. Don't get into a discussion with your date about her or his parents (a divorce or separation might make this topic get depressing), but if you mention sisters and brothers, it shows that you have a caring side and an interest in her life. Plus a mention of sibs often can trigger positive feelings.
Food. Unless she's got issues surrounding food and alcohol, this is a fairly safe topic that can turn lively and enjoyable as you debate the merits of various types of cheese, what kinds of wine you prefer, and what your favorite types of cuisine are.
Friends. Most people enjoy talking about their friends, how long they've known them, where they met and how much their friends mean to them. With minimal prompting from you, your date will probably be able to talk endlessly on this topic. And let's face it, when it's your turn to share about your friends, you'll enjoy it just as much.
Topics to Avoid
Not every topic is so approacable. Here are some examples of what to remain mum on:
Reviewed by QualityHealth's Medical Advisory Board
Recent vacations. Talking about a trip you took could quite naturally then segue into crazy (and humorous) travel experiences you've had, or a trip that you've both taken and that you both really enjoyed.
A hobby you love. "This is a great way to connect," Kaiser says. "You may find that you both love going for long walks or something else that you might enjoy doing together..."
A recent news story...as long as it's not too politically or emotionally charged. You don't necessarily want to start talking about national politics, health care reform, or who you voted for in the last Presidential election. But if it's about a new smart phone application, the latest shenanigans of some celebrity, or some interesting sports news, that's perfectly okay.
What's happening around you. "I don't mean what is going on between the two of you, but with other people," Kaiser says. "Say you are in a restaurant and the waiter has an unusual quirk, or the menu is way too large. This might give you something to laugh about. You are trying to connect with the person on different levels." Talking about your surroundings and seeing if the other person has similar responses to a situation may clue you in as to whether the two of you share a similar sense of humor, and this can be very important in a longterm relationship.
A movie you have seen or want to see. Discussing a film keeps the conversation light at the same time that it lets you figure out if you have similar tastes and interests in cultural areas. And if there's a movie that you have both been wanting to see, it could make a great destination for your next date.
Siblings. Don't get into a discussion with your date about her or his parents (a divorce or separation might make this topic get depressing), but if you mention sisters and brothers, it shows that you have a caring side and an interest in her life. Plus a mention of sibs often can trigger positive feelings.
Food. Unless she's got issues surrounding food and alcohol, this is a fairly safe topic that can turn lively and enjoyable as you debate the merits of various types of cheese, what kinds of wine you prefer, and what your favorite types of cuisine are.
Friends. Most people enjoy talking about their friends, how long they've known them, where they met and how much their friends mean to them. With minimal prompting from you, your date will probably be able to talk endlessly on this topic. And let's face it, when it's your turn to share about your friends, you'll enjoy it just as much.
Topics to Avoid
Not every topic is so approacable. Here are some examples of what to remain mum on:
- Divorced parents
- Whether or not she wants a big wedding
- The fact that you've got 5 cats that you'll never give up
- How many children you want to have
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