May you all have a blessed weekend and a wonderful Lord's Day!
The Lord's richest blessings to you all,
Rebekah Ann Shadoin (www.byhisgraceandforhisglory.blogspot.com)
Friday, August 31, 2007
Introduction Coming Soon!
Hello, everyone!! I just wanted to let you all know that I will be very busy this weekend, but will be posting my own introduction on Monday!! I would love to hear from and get to know all of you, so don't hesitate to drop me a line at living_for_my_Lords_glory@hotmail.com !
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
I am going on Vacation!
I will be in Spokane this weekend! I will be leaving Friday, and won't be back until Monday evening. I will be going to Couer De Lane, Idaho, Saturday, and will be gone all day. And then Sunday, I will be visiting my sister Sarah, and baby. I am so excited!
A slight change of plans!
We are going to Spokane on Saturday, and will not be back until Tuesday. A little matter of getting the time off, for my brother in law! Now, we are going to make it. Oh so fun! Couer De Lane is on Monday, instead of Saturday, so it will be different too! I am looking forward to seeing my nephew!
Have a great Labor Day Weekend, and God bless you!
Laura H
A slight change of plans!
We are going to Spokane on Saturday, and will not be back until Tuesday. A little matter of getting the time off, for my brother in law! Now, we are going to make it. Oh so fun! Couer De Lane is on Monday, instead of Saturday, so it will be different too! I am looking forward to seeing my nephew!
Have a great Labor Day Weekend, and God bless you!
Laura H
Sunday, August 26, 2007
Greetings from Georgia!
Hello lovely ladies! I was recently invited by Laura to come on board at Mayden Fair and am excited to join y'all. :o)
My name is Amy and I am wife & helpmeet to my wonderful husband, Sean, and new mother to our zany little daughter, Miss Peapod, who is soon to be ten months old. I have had the opportunity to serve my Heavenly Father, husband, and now our daughter, as a "keeper at home" ever since I married. We have just recently returned to our adopted home state of Georgia, after the completion of my husband's military service this past spring, and are excited to be living "civilian life" once again. My husband and I have called six different addresses home over the past few years and will finally be settling down at one home for at least a year (God willing) in just two short weeks. This blessing from the Lord is something I am most thankful for and I cannot wait to see where He might lead us next!
I blog at Clothesline Alley about a host of Godly womanhood topics, ranging from femininity, modesty, motherhood, homemaking, and everything in between. Having the opportunity "meet" so many precious daughters of the King in the blogging world has been such a joy and hopefully will continue. :o)
I look forward to the pleasure of getting to know all of you dear sisters in the near future and hope everybody is enjoying their weekend. Many blessings!!
Saturday, August 25, 2007
Character Traits
A friend sent me these character lists last year and I thought you might find them helpful. *Note that in some cases it is talking about husbands, these same principles could also be applied to fathers.
Girl's list:
1. she prays
2. she is trustworthy
3. she loves the Lord
4. She is kind
5. she is wise with money
6. she thinks before she speaks
7. she helps the poor and needy
8. She is not idle
9. She is unselfish
10. she is pure in her thoughts
11. she is tender hearted and compassionate
12. she doesn't look at what she doesn't have but at what she does have
13. she trusts in God
14. She has a skill and isn't afraid of work
15. She is greatful
16. She has strength of character
17. she is forgiving
18. she knows how to cook and bake
19. she looks after her husband
20. she understands his needs and does her best to fulfill them
21. she loves her husband
22. she encourages her husband
23. she does not dwell on or show others his faults
24. she submits to her husband willingly
25. she wants others to know about the Lord/has a burden for souls
26. she is truthful/honest
27. she is willing to improve
28. she is encouraging
29. she raises her children for the Lord
30. Doesn't dwell on discouragement
Guy's list:
1. Is he considerate?
2. Does he think of himself, or of others first?
3. Is he kind to animals?
4. Does he say he's sorry when he's done something wrong?
5. Is he patient, or does he often interrupt?
6. Is he encouraging?
7. Is he easily influenced by others?
8. Is he forgiving?
9. Does he trust you & you him?
10. Does he guard your heart and his or does he push you past your boundaries?
11. Is he respectful?
12. Can he take advice?
13. Can you talk to him about anything?
14. Does he try to understand your point of view?
15. Is he sensitive to how others are feeling?
16. Does he love the Lord?
17. Is he a leader or does he follow whoever he's around?
18. Does he take spiritual stands?
19. Is he a protector?
20. Does he shirk duty, or is he helpful?
21. Will he let you take care of him, or is he very independent?
22. Is he appreciative?
23. Does he interact with children, or does he avoid them?
24. Is he willing to try new things?
25. Can he offer advice?
26. Is he unselfish?
27. Is he honest?
28. Can he think seriously?
29. Does he have a sense of humor?
30. Can he take teasing & playfulness?
Girl's list:
1. she prays
2. she is trustworthy
3. she loves the Lord
4. She is kind
5. she is wise with money
6. she thinks before she speaks
7. she helps the poor and needy
8. She is not idle
9. She is unselfish
10. she is pure in her thoughts
11. she is tender hearted and compassionate
12. she doesn't look at what she doesn't have but at what she does have
13. she trusts in God
14. She has a skill and isn't afraid of work
15. She is greatful
16. She has strength of character
17. she is forgiving
18. she knows how to cook and bake
19. she looks after her husband
20. she understands his needs and does her best to fulfill them
21. she loves her husband
22. she encourages her husband
23. she does not dwell on or show others his faults
24. she submits to her husband willingly
25. she wants others to know about the Lord/has a burden for souls
26. she is truthful/honest
27. she is willing to improve
28. she is encouraging
29. she raises her children for the Lord
30. Doesn't dwell on discouragement
Guy's list:
1. Is he considerate?
2. Does he think of himself, or of others first?
3. Is he kind to animals?
4. Does he say he's sorry when he's done something wrong?
5. Is he patient, or does he often interrupt?
6. Is he encouraging?
7. Is he easily influenced by others?
8. Is he forgiving?
9. Does he trust you & you him?
10. Does he guard your heart and his or does he push you past your boundaries?
11. Is he respectful?
12. Can he take advice?
13. Can you talk to him about anything?
14. Does he try to understand your point of view?
15. Is he sensitive to how others are feeling?
16. Does he love the Lord?
17. Is he a leader or does he follow whoever he's around?
18. Does he take spiritual stands?
19. Is he a protector?
20. Does he shirk duty, or is he helpful?
21. Will he let you take care of him, or is he very independent?
22. Is he appreciative?
23. Does he interact with children, or does he avoid them?
24. Is he willing to try new things?
25. Can he offer advice?
26. Is he unselfish?
27. Is he honest?
28. Can he think seriously?
29. Does he have a sense of humor?
30. Can he take teasing & playfulness?
Continue Writing!
I expect the other authors to continue on for the Month of September.Even though I am going on a break, doesn't mean you cannot write! Everyone is in charge of the blog, and will be welcome to post, while I am gone! I would miss you if you didn't!
Have a great September, and I hope to return by October 1st!
God Bless!
Laura H
Have a great September, and I hope to return by October 1st!
God Bless!
Laura H
Another Intro
Hello dear sisters in Christ!
My name is Laura May Davidson. Most of my friends call me Laura though. I am 21 years old and was home schooled all my life till I graduated May 23, 2005! I was born in Arlington, VA on May 13, 1986 :) I lived in Virginia the first 5 years of my life and then we moved to La Plata, MD cause of Dad’s job in August 1991 :)
I am the daughter of Brian and Paula Davidson. I was born 5 years after my parents were married.
I have 4 younger siblings: Angela is 18 and just graduated home school in May. She is attending the University of AL in Huntsville :) for nursing. She is also teaching piano lessons :) she took over for her teacher while her teacher was on maternity leave :) Now her teacher is about to come back. She has a boyfriend that is really nice and gets along well with our family. His name is Andrew and he will turn 21 in October. They have been seeing each other since January I think. But they were just friends back then.
Amy is 14 and going into the 9th grade. She and I work in our church nursery most Sundays for the Sunday school hour. She also bakes a lot of Wednesdays for our college group at church. She is good at it I think.
Thomas is 12 and our only brother :) he is going into 7th grade. He and Dad are pretty much best friends. They do a lot together. Thomas plays baseball in the spring and greatly enjoys that. Thomas has always been what mom calls “all boy”.
Anna is our “baby” of the family. :) She is 6 years old. She is starting 1st grade :) she is a pretty social person. Pretty much where ever we go she is always making new friends :) she and our kitten Jack are best friends. She also loves babies and baby dolls. :)
I accepted Christ as my savior when I was 6 years old. But since then when I was 16 and even later than that I have recommitted my life to Him. Through all the trials in life He has stood by me….even when I was unfaithful.
My favorite things: completing a project like an afghan that I have knitted long and hard on, reading a well written book (really too many to list, but Beverly Lewis and Wanda Brunstetter are a few favorites), eating good food, spending time with family that I rarely get to see, sleeping late, writing letters and e-mails, and finding lots of letters when you come home from a long vacation, or an inbox full of personal e-mails :) and there is nothing like holding a newborn baby :) I am sure that babies bring the most joy in life :)
I guess I should probably write more about me. Though sometimes I really have no idea what to say. I just recently started a new job as a home attendant I work in elderly people’s homes caring for the people and their houses :) I enjoy it pretty well so far. But I still like babies better. But it is interesting to hear the old people talk about their life and all. My one great desire in life is to marry the wonderful man that God has for me and raise a big family :) I will look forward to getting to know you all better! :)
Your sister in Christ,
Laura May Davidson
My name is Laura May Davidson. Most of my friends call me Laura though. I am 21 years old and was home schooled all my life till I graduated May 23, 2005! I was born in Arlington, VA on May 13, 1986 :) I lived in Virginia the first 5 years of my life and then we moved to La Plata, MD cause of Dad’s job in August 1991 :)
I am the daughter of Brian and Paula Davidson. I was born 5 years after my parents were married.
I have 4 younger siblings: Angela is 18 and just graduated home school in May. She is attending the University of AL in Huntsville :) for nursing. She is also teaching piano lessons :) she took over for her teacher while her teacher was on maternity leave :) Now her teacher is about to come back. She has a boyfriend that is really nice and gets along well with our family. His name is Andrew and he will turn 21 in October. They have been seeing each other since January I think. But they were just friends back then.
Amy is 14 and going into the 9th grade. She and I work in our church nursery most Sundays for the Sunday school hour. She also bakes a lot of Wednesdays for our college group at church. She is good at it I think.
Thomas is 12 and our only brother :) he is going into 7th grade. He and Dad are pretty much best friends. They do a lot together. Thomas plays baseball in the spring and greatly enjoys that. Thomas has always been what mom calls “all boy”.
Anna is our “baby” of the family. :) She is 6 years old. She is starting 1st grade :) she is a pretty social person. Pretty much where ever we go she is always making new friends :) she and our kitten Jack are best friends. She also loves babies and baby dolls. :)
I accepted Christ as my savior when I was 6 years old. But since then when I was 16 and even later than that I have recommitted my life to Him. Through all the trials in life He has stood by me….even when I was unfaithful.
My favorite things: completing a project like an afghan that I have knitted long and hard on, reading a well written book (really too many to list, but Beverly Lewis and Wanda Brunstetter are a few favorites), eating good food, spending time with family that I rarely get to see, sleeping late, writing letters and e-mails, and finding lots of letters when you come home from a long vacation, or an inbox full of personal e-mails :) and there is nothing like holding a newborn baby :) I am sure that babies bring the most joy in life :)
I guess I should probably write more about me. Though sometimes I really have no idea what to say. I just recently started a new job as a home attendant I work in elderly people’s homes caring for the people and their houses :) I enjoy it pretty well so far. But I still like babies better. But it is interesting to hear the old people talk about their life and all. My one great desire in life is to marry the wonderful man that God has for me and raise a big family :) I will look forward to getting to know you all better! :)
Your sister in Christ,
Laura May Davidson
Friday, August 24, 2007
A Blogging Break!
For the month of September, I am taking a blogging break. I need to prepare for school, and such. So I will not be writing for September, but I will look in on you all, and see what you have been writing! I hope to start up again, in October. I will be accessable through my email, but I need the break, from all of my blogs! I will write you about my first days, after the last Day of September! I need this break, for I am getting emotional about school, and household things! So, taking a break is going to be good for me! Please pray for me, as I continue to work and prepare for school! I am scared!
Have a great week, and a month of September! I will post once in a great while, maybe a quicky on Hines Family Homestead, about Gabriel and such, but that is about it! And I look forward to reading your articles and such!
If any of you have questions about joining Mayden Fair, contact me or any number of the maydens writing, and they will tell me. I will send an invite, and leave it up to you! We would love to have you! Email me at: lmh4him@hotmail.com
In Christ Alone!
Laura H.
Thursday, August 23, 2007
Book Recommendations and Author Review
Elisabeth Elliot is a missionary who spent some years among the Huaorani people in Ecuador and is a well-known Christian author and speaker. Her first husband, Jim Elliot, was one of five men who made initial contact with the Huaorani on January 6, 1956. Two days later Huaorani returned and killed the five men. Several years later, Elliot went to the Huaorani with Rachel Saint, sister of Nate Saint, another of the five, and learned the language with the help of Dayuma, a Huaorani woman who had spent some time among the Quechuas. The Waoranis called her Gikari (Woodpecker).
Elisabeth Elliot is my favorite author and she may be yours too.I love the way she writes, she doesn't sugar coat anything but tells the truth. She offers wisdom gained from her own experiences and life along with important spiritual truths.If you haven't read any of her books, here are a couple I recommend.
Let Me Be A Woman
Elisabeth really puts into perspective what being a woman means according to God’s plan for us and also a refreshing view on what it means to be a married woman and our respective place. I loved this book! It is the antidote to the feminist way of thinking. ;)
Passion and Purity: Learning to Bring Your Love Life Under Christ's Control
Can love be both passionate and pure? Elisabeth and Jim Elliot's relationship shows it can! A passionate love story with great insights. Especially encouraging for those who know who they want to marry but have a long wait until they get there!
Quest For Love: True Stories of Passion and Purity
An "afterward" of sorts to Passion and Purity... Filled with lots of insight, and story after story of passion and purity! One of the best books I’ve ever read on the subject of love between a man and a woman and how to let God be in control of our “love life”. It doesn’t offer pat solutions but causes one to really think and approach relationships God’s way.
Other great books by Elisabeth Elliot:
* Taking Flight: Wisdom for Your Journey
* Through Gates of Splendor
* Keep a Quiet Heart* Discipline: The Glad Surrender
* A Lamp For My Feet
* No Graven Image
* The Mark of a Man
* The Journals of Jim Elliot* Shadow of the Almighty: The Life and Testament of Jim Elliot
Elisabeth Elliot is my favorite author and she may be yours too.I love the way she writes, she doesn't sugar coat anything but tells the truth. She offers wisdom gained from her own experiences and life along with important spiritual truths.If you haven't read any of her books, here are a couple I recommend.
Let Me Be A Woman
Elisabeth really puts into perspective what being a woman means according to God’s plan for us and also a refreshing view on what it means to be a married woman and our respective place. I loved this book! It is the antidote to the feminist way of thinking. ;)
Passion and Purity: Learning to Bring Your Love Life Under Christ's Control
Can love be both passionate and pure? Elisabeth and Jim Elliot's relationship shows it can! A passionate love story with great insights. Especially encouraging for those who know who they want to marry but have a long wait until they get there!
Quest For Love: True Stories of Passion and Purity
An "afterward" of sorts to Passion and Purity... Filled with lots of insight, and story after story of passion and purity! One of the best books I’ve ever read on the subject of love between a man and a woman and how to let God be in control of our “love life”. It doesn’t offer pat solutions but causes one to really think and approach relationships God’s way.
Other great books by Elisabeth Elliot:
* Taking Flight: Wisdom for Your Journey
* Through Gates of Splendor
* Keep a Quiet Heart* Discipline: The Glad Surrender
* A Lamp For My Feet
* No Graven Image
* The Mark of a Man
* The Journals of Jim Elliot* Shadow of the Almighty: The Life and Testament of Jim Elliot
September's A Mayden is.....Wise!
Our subject for the month of September is a little out of order, but I felt was appropriate! A Mayden is..... Wise!
Please write about this, and share with others!
Laura H
Please write about this, and share with others!
Laura H
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
Confession!
Hey, I know this will sound totally different and about face from what I have been writing, but my Parents are encouraging me to go to a Community College this Fall. Don't be mad a me, please! I am still working at home, I am just expanding my education, a little more. I need to finish Math, and such, and am taking a Photography course this Winter! I will still write for Mayden Fair, and I still believe in staying at home, and being a wife and mother. It is just, that there is not much for me to do at home. My little siblings do most of the work. Our home is simple to manage! I hope to improve my skills in home care, and such, to help with my duties as a housewife!
I hope you will not shun me, after this. I am wanting to be honest and above board with you all. I am not perfect, and never hope to be. My convictions of purity, and courtship are strong, and my views of being a stay at home daughter are too. I am just following the wishes of my parents!
So, please do not judge me for doing this thing. I need the education, and it will build up my self confidence, that I am seriously lacking!
I am asking for your prayers, as I approach this time of nervousness, and unsureness! Keep me in your prayers!
In Christ Alone!
Laura H
I hope you will not shun me, after this. I am wanting to be honest and above board with you all. I am not perfect, and never hope to be. My convictions of purity, and courtship are strong, and my views of being a stay at home daughter are too. I am just following the wishes of my parents!
So, please do not judge me for doing this thing. I need the education, and it will build up my self confidence, that I am seriously lacking!
I am asking for your prayers, as I approach this time of nervousness, and unsureness! Keep me in your prayers!
In Christ Alone!
Laura H
Monday, August 20, 2007
A Good Man
What to look for in a husband? The options can seem endless, the list long. But what is truly important?
The Scriptures are the first place to look. They provide a guide and a judge of the stuff that matters. Does he really have to have blue eyes, or is it more important that those eyes--whatever colour--fix on things that are pure and right?
God delights in giving us the desires of our heart and may just be waiting to surprise us by granting even our teeniest dreams (as He did so awesomely in Jennie Chancey's courtship story). God may well have picked out a man whose eyes sparkle like the sky on a summer day. But let's not pin our hopes and wishes on these outward things. Let's pray for men who:
-seek to worship God in life, not just in song or on Sunday
-stand up for the outcasts and the forlorn
-defend innocence
-love to offer hospitality
-believe that God is still as powerful as He always has been
-are keen to spread the good news
-are hard workers
-are firm in the convictions of their hearts yet...
-possess a humble, teachable spirit and seek direction from godly men
-don't ever want to stop learning
-will seek to love all and not simply impress the girls they like
These men won't be perfect, just as we won't. But their hearts will be fixed on God. And that's what really matters.
The Scriptures are the first place to look. They provide a guide and a judge of the stuff that matters. Does he really have to have blue eyes, or is it more important that those eyes--whatever colour--fix on things that are pure and right?
God delights in giving us the desires of our heart and may just be waiting to surprise us by granting even our teeniest dreams (as He did so awesomely in Jennie Chancey's courtship story). God may well have picked out a man whose eyes sparkle like the sky on a summer day. But let's not pin our hopes and wishes on these outward things. Let's pray for men who:
-seek to worship God in life, not just in song or on Sunday
-stand up for the outcasts and the forlorn
-defend innocence
-love to offer hospitality
-believe that God is still as powerful as He always has been
-are keen to spread the good news
-are hard workers
-are firm in the convictions of their hearts yet...
-possess a humble, teachable spirit and seek direction from godly men
-don't ever want to stop learning
-will seek to love all and not simply impress the girls they like
These men won't be perfect, just as we won't. But their hearts will be fixed on God. And that's what really matters.
What do Maydens Look for in A Future Husband?
We are deviating off of the subject this month. I am wanting to ask, a question that is on some of our hearts!
A dear friend and I had a conversation yesterday, where she asked how do you know when it is the one? How do you know when God reveals to you, that this man before you, it the one? I was puzzled and didn't know how to answer her. Can you help?
What do you, as a Mayden, look for in a future husband? What are the most important things that you would want, if you had a choice? Please give me some examples, and share. We are a bunch of puzzled young ladies here, and need some advice!
Married woman please comment, and engaged as well! Please share! We need some help!
God bless!
Laura H
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
Nice Matters Award!
Nice Matters
Ashley from Ashley-Daughter of the King! has awarded us with the beautiful and meaningful “Nice Matters” Award! It's a joy to us to receive the "Nice Matters" Award as our first award ever. Ashley Thank you!!
“This award is for those bloggers who are nice people; good blog friends and those who inspire good feelings and inspiration. Also for those who are a positive influence on our blogging world. Once you’ve been awarded please pass it on to 7 others who you feel are deserving of this award.”
We feel the the following people are well deserving of this beautiful award.
We award it to all of you, who read this. Your blogs are an inspiration to use, as well as your comments! Please keep up the good work, and we hope to see you again!
Ashley from Ashley-Daughter of the King! has awarded us with the beautiful and meaningful “Nice Matters” Award! It's a joy to us to receive the "Nice Matters" Award as our first award ever. Ashley Thank you!!
“This award is for those bloggers who are nice people; good blog friends and those who inspire good feelings and inspiration. Also for those who are a positive influence on our blogging world. Once you’ve been awarded please pass it on to 7 others who you feel are deserving of this award.”
We feel the the following people are well deserving of this beautiful award.
We award it to all of you, who read this. Your blogs are an inspiration to use, as well as your comments! Please keep up the good work, and we hope to see you again!
Regaining trust: how?
In my previous post about trustworthiness, I mentioned how I wasn't exactly the most reliable young woman a couple of years ago. Fortunately, I opened up my heart to God and seeked good advice from wiser people, and decided this is going to change. But then I had to face a challenge: how am I going to convince people they can trust me? I gained a reputation of a lightheaded gossip junkie. This didn't happen in one day, and quite obviously, it wasn't going to change in one day either.
Maybe someone else could solve this by having heart-to-heart conversations with different people, explaining the change in her character. But not me. Why? First, I was too shy to do something like that. Second, because I realized actions would be far more convincing than words.
I figured out I need to do something that takes a good share of responsibility - something I can commit to, and stick with; something that can show others and myself that I really have changed.
I signed up for volunteering in the local community center, and with another girl - my partner - took charge of a youth group. There were about 10 kids in the group, aged 11-12. We had to plan an educational activity for them every week.
In the first couple of weeks, everything went great. We would meet at the beginning of the week, make plans about what we are going to do for the kids this time, make all the necessary preparations and distribute the different tasks between ourselves.
But then, unexpected trials came. One week, my partner called to say she was sick; I would have to manage on my own. I did - somewhat lamely. The week after that, she couldn't come either; and next thing, she just stopped calling and quietly withdrew, without even giving any explanations. The task was left entirely in my hands.
It wasn't fair. It was not what I committed to. But even then, I realized it's a valuable lesson: it gave me the outside perspective of what it looks like when someone makes a commitment, and then backs out. I knew that if this girl ever wanted me to trust her again, she would have to come up with something really good! And second, I learned that sometimes we make a commitment on certain conditions, but then it becomes much harder than we thought it would be. And when that happens, we have two choices: show preservance and continue, or back out.
I chose the first option. I decided to stick with what I was doing, and took on a double load of work. Yes, it took a lot of my time and energy, but it contributed a great deal both to my self-respect and my reputation. And goes without saying, I had a great time with the kids!
Maybe someone else could solve this by having heart-to-heart conversations with different people, explaining the change in her character. But not me. Why? First, I was too shy to do something like that. Second, because I realized actions would be far more convincing than words.
I figured out I need to do something that takes a good share of responsibility - something I can commit to, and stick with; something that can show others and myself that I really have changed.
I signed up for volunteering in the local community center, and with another girl - my partner - took charge of a youth group. There were about 10 kids in the group, aged 11-12. We had to plan an educational activity for them every week.
In the first couple of weeks, everything went great. We would meet at the beginning of the week, make plans about what we are going to do for the kids this time, make all the necessary preparations and distribute the different tasks between ourselves.
But then, unexpected trials came. One week, my partner called to say she was sick; I would have to manage on my own. I did - somewhat lamely. The week after that, she couldn't come either; and next thing, she just stopped calling and quietly withdrew, without even giving any explanations. The task was left entirely in my hands.
It wasn't fair. It was not what I committed to. But even then, I realized it's a valuable lesson: it gave me the outside perspective of what it looks like when someone makes a commitment, and then backs out. I knew that if this girl ever wanted me to trust her again, she would have to come up with something really good! And second, I learned that sometimes we make a commitment on certain conditions, but then it becomes much harder than we thought it would be. And when that happens, we have two choices: show preservance and continue, or back out.
I chose the first option. I decided to stick with what I was doing, and took on a double load of work. Yes, it took a lot of my time and energy, but it contributed a great deal both to my self-respect and my reputation. And goes without saying, I had a great time with the kids!
Saturday, August 11, 2007
A Maiden's Influence!
A Maiden's Influence....on her brothers (and other young men).Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. Matthew 5:16
I have read many articles on how important it is for we as older sisters to be good examples for our siblings and particularly our younger sisters. They see all we do and hear all we say and mimic our actions.But I want to focus on the influence we as maidens have on our brothers and other young men.
Look around you, what do you see? Do you see a majority of young women cheaply dressing and selling themselves short? Do you see what our young men have to deal with? Boys and men have to deal daily with the bomdbardment of what society says is acceptable. The clothing, the attitude, the walk, the pictures etc. One can hardly go anywhere anymore without seeing something that is offensive. We can change that or at least be the very best examples we can be by dressing modestly and by acting as virtuous young women!
Our young men should be able to come home to a safe haven where their senses do not have to fight against sinning.
A woman who acts like a lady can bring out the best manners in a man.Sisters can encourage their brothers to open doors for ladies, treat them with respect, and learn what not to say in the presence of a lady. (There are some things that men may talk about that are not exactly suitable in the presence of a lady). I don't mean to nag your brothers but discreetly tell them what is and is not polite to do. But the best tool is your actions. Do you act like a lady or a tomboy in the presence of your brothers? Do you laugh at a crude joke? How are your manners? your dress?It does not matter what age your brothers may be, you can be an example to them all. You can have your little brother open the door or carry heavier things for your little sister. Tell them that God has designed for men to be protectors of women. The Bible story of Ruth and Boaz is a good example of this.Another thing: Don't forget to thank your brothers and acknowledge their efforts as they go forth being the men that God would have them to be.
~Jaclynn R.
Friday, August 10, 2007
Website!
I am making a website for Mayden Fair. I need some suggestions. I have a few ideas of pages, and I will list them here. I will expound on them later!
Home page
The Fellowship(The authors of this website, talk about their transformation from Feminism, to Maydenhood)
Mayden Pages(links to Maydens own sites, along with a short blurb on themselves)
About the Maydens
Our Mission Statement
Mayden Club(we will have the Mayden Code of Honor)
Connections( A place where Maydens can find other maydens, around the USA, and the World!
Links( Our favorite links)
Crusade for Maydens(to find and mentor struggling maydens)
Mayden Blogs( a list of blogs, pertaining to living at home, and being a godly woman
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Let me know, if this is too much to start with, and I will back it down. I like the Club idea, and the Crusade! But let me know if this is too much!
Laura H
Home page
The Fellowship(The authors of this website, talk about their transformation from Feminism, to Maydenhood)
Mayden Pages(links to Maydens own sites, along with a short blurb on themselves)
About the Maydens
Our Mission Statement
Mayden Club(we will have the Mayden Code of Honor)
Connections( A place where Maydens can find other maydens, around the USA, and the World!
Links( Our favorite links)
Crusade for Maydens(to find and mentor struggling maydens)
Mayden Blogs( a list of blogs, pertaining to living at home, and being a godly woman
----------------------------------------
Let me know, if this is too much to start with, and I will back it down. I like the Club idea, and the Crusade! But let me know if this is too much!
Laura H
Wednesday, August 8, 2007
Trustworthiness: cultivate this virtue!
Hello, dear young ladies! It has been a long time since my last post here on 'Mayden Fair', as I'm extremely busy these days. But the subject we are currently discussing, trustworthiness, is so important that I just can't pass it by!
When I say 'trustworthy', do you know what immediately pops into my mind? The following words from Proverbs 31: 'The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will have no lack of gain'.
The Proverbs 31 woman is a mature and accomplished adult. Can you imagine how much time, effort, prayer, sweat, pain, tears and challenges she must have been through, to merit this wonderful, truly priceless praise: the heart of her husband trusts in her! Fortunately, we have time to learn.
Trustworthiness isn't a character trait that is gained in a matter of days or weeks. It is difficult to achieve and extremely easy to lose. I will share with you a few things I have been guilty of, in the past. Let's just say that if I met 16-year-old Anna today, I wouldn't trust that young lady! Why? Because I would know that she makes promises and breaks them, that she makes commitments and then backs out. I would know, because anyone in contact with Anna would tell me that. I would also know this young lady - well, she wouldn't lie about anything serious, but she wouldn't hesitate to tell what we call 'white lies' (very dangerous term!). It was more than habit; it was second nature. Oh and gossip!.. You could never confide in Anna, because you'd know it would be like a radio broadcast. In a matter of days, everyone would know about your secret.
It took years until it actually started to bother me, and when it did and I finally started working on this specific character trait - which, I tell you, wasn't easy - you know what was most painful? Here I am, going beside myself to be genuine and sincere... and people were still afraid to trust me! How would they know I have changed? Only time could show. I know that some people who knew me back then still don't trust me completely.
As unmarried ladies in waiting, we have the gift of time to work on our characters, both for today and for the future. If you get married someday, don't think marriage will change you overnight. You will still be the same person, with the same flaws, that can be a hindrance to your marriage. Won't you wish, then, you had set aside more time to personal growth and developing a noble character, in your maiden years? And if you don't get married, you still don't want to be labeled as untrustworthy, right?
Work on the virtue of trustworthiness! It will be a priceless investment, akin to planting a garden which will give you a rich and generous bounty in the years to come.
Some practical advice. Pay attention to the following things:
* Making a promise or a commitment you know you can't stick with. Better say 'no' right away, even if it seems rude. Some of my untrustworthiness actually stemmed from the inability to say no.
* Telling 'small', 'insignificant' lies. You don't have to reveal everything, always, but if you do say something, make sure it's the truth. When in doubt, simply remember God knows you through and through anyway, you can't hide from Him!
* Gossip. Goes without saying. Get away from any people or activities if you feel they are encouraging you to engage in gossip. Talk about others only when the conversation revolves around something constructive ("how do you think we can better help Mary with her garage sale?"). Beware of idle conversations about other people.
Good luck on your path of becoming virtuous and trustworthy young women!
When I say 'trustworthy', do you know what immediately pops into my mind? The following words from Proverbs 31: 'The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will have no lack of gain'.
The Proverbs 31 woman is a mature and accomplished adult. Can you imagine how much time, effort, prayer, sweat, pain, tears and challenges she must have been through, to merit this wonderful, truly priceless praise: the heart of her husband trusts in her! Fortunately, we have time to learn.
Trustworthiness isn't a character trait that is gained in a matter of days or weeks. It is difficult to achieve and extremely easy to lose. I will share with you a few things I have been guilty of, in the past. Let's just say that if I met 16-year-old Anna today, I wouldn't trust that young lady! Why? Because I would know that she makes promises and breaks them, that she makes commitments and then backs out. I would know, because anyone in contact with Anna would tell me that. I would also know this young lady - well, she wouldn't lie about anything serious, but she wouldn't hesitate to tell what we call 'white lies' (very dangerous term!). It was more than habit; it was second nature. Oh and gossip!.. You could never confide in Anna, because you'd know it would be like a radio broadcast. In a matter of days, everyone would know about your secret.
It took years until it actually started to bother me, and when it did and I finally started working on this specific character trait - which, I tell you, wasn't easy - you know what was most painful? Here I am, going beside myself to be genuine and sincere... and people were still afraid to trust me! How would they know I have changed? Only time could show. I know that some people who knew me back then still don't trust me completely.
As unmarried ladies in waiting, we have the gift of time to work on our characters, both for today and for the future. If you get married someday, don't think marriage will change you overnight. You will still be the same person, with the same flaws, that can be a hindrance to your marriage. Won't you wish, then, you had set aside more time to personal growth and developing a noble character, in your maiden years? And if you don't get married, you still don't want to be labeled as untrustworthy, right?
Work on the virtue of trustworthiness! It will be a priceless investment, akin to planting a garden which will give you a rich and generous bounty in the years to come.
Some practical advice. Pay attention to the following things:
* Making a promise or a commitment you know you can't stick with. Better say 'no' right away, even if it seems rude. Some of my untrustworthiness actually stemmed from the inability to say no.
* Telling 'small', 'insignificant' lies. You don't have to reveal everything, always, but if you do say something, make sure it's the truth. When in doubt, simply remember God knows you through and through anyway, you can't hide from Him!
* Gossip. Goes without saying. Get away from any people or activities if you feel they are encouraging you to engage in gossip. Talk about others only when the conversation revolves around something constructive ("how do you think we can better help Mary with her garage sale?"). Beware of idle conversations about other people.
Good luck on your path of becoming virtuous and trustworthy young women!
Wednesday, August 1, 2007
A Mayden to be Trusted!
Parts taken from Beautiful Girlhood, A Girl Who Can be Trusted, Chapter 27A girl who can be trusted! What a treasure she is to her family! What a strength of character she has for her young life's beginning if she has learned to keep her word exactly, to be trustworthy!But not every girl is trustworthy, naturally! THey have to learn it. Many learn through bitter experiences and circumstances, that is it better to be true to one's word, to stand by a promise, to be obedient with out of sight and hearing of those over her, then to choose to a different path and take it secretly.It was a scene not forgotten by any of the three. The mother sat directly in front of the fire, its faint flickers showing the look of worry on her face. The father sat at her left hand, his face set sternly; for he was a man to resent actions of anyone who brought anxiety to that dear face beside him. At her right in a little huddled heap was the yound daughter. SHe had just passed her 14th birthday, ans she was troubled and in as much turmoil as many another girl of that age has found herself. She had been taking things into her own hands and having "good times" that had come about through deception, but the owl like eyes of her mother, who, like many other mothers, seemed to see what was done entirely in the dark, had found out all the winding paths she had taken, and now the escapades were to be laid bare before her father.
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Written by Laura H.
When a girl can be trusted like that, it is a joy for the family! But when she reveals something without having discretion, it is hurtful for not only her family but the family that she had talked about. I know about this experience. I did it recently. I feel ashamed, and know that they may not trust me again, but I know that I have asked for forgiveness, both from them and God, and therefore, I need not be afraid of condemnation. But it is still hurtful, and hard to swallow.
Also, a girl needs to be trusted when she is away from home. When she is over at a friends house, and a boy arrives that she is not to associate with, does she leave the party right away, or stay, and lie about the party later to her parents? Would that be trustworthy?
Or what about a certain piece of clothing? If the Daddy told her, it is too revealing, take it off, would she do it? Or would she wear it under another shirt, and take off the shirt, when she arrived at her friends house?
I have witnessed this first hand, and it grieved me greatly!I had the honor and privilege to care for my younger siblings by myself, when my Mom went to visit my sister, and her new baby, my Mom's first grandchild! My Dad worked during the day, and the hardest part was at night. But after consulting Mom, and such, I felt like I could be trusted with the children. That is called being trustworthy!Being trustworthy means holding your peace! A virtue I would dearly love to grasp! I am not very tactful in my speach, and such!
And this is also a point in the Bible. Christ trusted His disciples to heal the people, and preach his gospel. Ruth trusted Boaz, that night on the threshing floor, and Esther trusted God, when she went before the King. I can find numberous accounts of trusting and such, from the Bible. But God also trusted them. He trusted Esther, to preserve her people, from the wicked Haman. Ruth trusted Boaz, when she went to the threshing floor, and laid down at his feet, but she was also trustworthy to her mother in law, Naomi! God trusts us with the welfare of our fellow believers, that we would not lead them astray. I am so thankful that we are striving to be trustworthy!Being trustworthy is a big responcibility! I am up for the challenge, what about you?
Laura H
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