I'm going to start this post of with a song from one of my favorite artists. Sorry if you hate country. :)
Kenny Chesney- Never Gonna Feel Like That Again
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H68tkc1Z10c
I was actually listening to this song earlier today, just think about it, how true is it? At each stage of life, things will happen that will be new, you have that feeling of experiencing it and then it's gone. The memory will always be there, you will always remember it with either a feeling of deep sadness or absolute joy and it could change your life drastically, but with it comes a series of changes and challenges. In a sense, we become different people during these times, always with the same memories and feelings, but those experiences change us. We learn something and mature. Don't be afraid of these times, it's when we grow. Remember that we can't hold on to just one stage forever, do that and you could be missing out on some of life's greatest joys. I have experienced many changes in the past few years, and with this latest change (a baby girl), I have really thought about all that has happened. My life didn't go how I planned, God had a different idea for me. At the time, I was confused and didn't understand His plan, but I do now. Isn't that always how it goes? I'll highlight a few things in this post.
Pre-college-
I didn't want to go to college, not because it was too hard, but because I didn't see the point considering my life goals. Even as a young girl, I was a romantic and dreamed of marrying my high school sweetheart and having a family. My dream job was to be a mom, home school my kids, and have a big garden. As time went on, I didn't even have a high school sweetheart, my first boyfriend wasn't until I was 18. I thought I was late in getting my life started. In the end, I am so happy I didn't date until I was older. I was able to have so many great experiences and form great friendships that still last today, 6 years later. I didn't end up meeting my husband until I was 21, and I started college at 20 years old. During those times, I traveled with my dad and mom a few winters and met a lot of great people.
See how things went the way I envisioned when I was young? Me neither. I couldn't wish it any other way though. I got to grow as a person, and in my faith. As a result, I got to spend extra time with my dad who would suddenly pass away a few years later, and I also worked at summer camps in North Dakota and Missouri. I wish I could do it again! Time does move on though, and I was off to new experiences.
College-
This was one experience that was a bit different for me than for many others. I only went to a community college and got an associates degree. I also worked a part-time job to help pay my way through. During this stage, I was either studying, working, or playing volleyball at a church or league, I didn't have the kind of experience people usually think of when it comes to college, I didn't have a dorm, didn't do those crazy college parties, or live on pizza and ramen noodles. At the time, I wondered what the heck I was doing going to college when I didn't want to be a working woman anyways, and since I was going, why not do the whole college experience? Honestly, I do still kind of wonder what the whole college experience would have been like, but I prefer just wondering and having no debt to pay! Who knows, since I am more of a follower, I may have gotten in to trouble anyways. haha
This was just a whole big bombshell of new things. I went through different decisions about what I wanted to study, as I am sure many students do, and settled on baking and pastry. I love science and a passion of mine is creation science, but it wasn't practical to study that considering I still eventually wanted to be a stay at home mom. While switching through classes, I met so many great people, I also met some that really tested my patience and I put to use God's rules of forgiveness, patience, kindness, and love. I met many of different faiths and ideas, from Buddhism to this lady saying she thought aliens brought us to earth. I still wonder if she was serious or not, I couldn't tell and she didn't talk much. I am still wondering if God is going to use my college experience for something big, or He may have just used that experience as an opportunity for me to be able to talk to others about Him. I know I did have many chances during that time that I didn't use, I worried too much about saying the right thing and didn't end up saying anything at all. The world says to be yourself unless you are a Christian. When there are those times when the Jesus freak in you wants to shine, don't be afraid to let the light pour through. If they ask you a question you aren't prepared to answer, it's okay to say, "I don't know". Invite them to look for the answer with you!
This experience taught me about his hand in the small things. God doesn't always show His plan in big ways, sometimes He may have used you to help someone else without you knowing it. In all you do, let it be for the glory of God.
Marriage and babies-
This one is new for me, so I am still in the learning process. I became engaged during my last year of college, and got married the following fall. Yes, we were planning a wedding during my final semester, but I welcomed the happy distraction. :) These days, people seem scared of making the commitment to marry, thinking they will change or the love will fade. Yes, you will change, but love is a choice to begin with so you just choose to love the person your spouse has become. Unless of course your spouse turned abusive or cheated on you, then that isn't good and you don't have to put up with that. Does love fade? Yes, it does if you let it, and if you choose not to love the person anymore. The whole fad of romance novels and fairy tale love stories has been ingrained in our society way too much. Love IS NOT always pretty! There will be those times when your spouse isn't all that lovable. Maybe he snaps at you because he had a long day at work, or you have to take care of the kids and him because he has the flu. God said to love others as Christ loves us. Love is a whole lot more than the butterflies and stars in the eyes, it's also the cleaning up puke, making chicken noodle soup and a whole lot of forgiveness. Also, a big thing I learned is not trying to understand each other, if you don't know why he/she does what they do, it's okay, learn to love that as well.
Now for last topic of babies. It is a lot of fun having a child, but it is scary! Being responsible for raising another human being is an intimidating task, I was quite nervous. In the world of pregnancy prevention, many couples have opted out of that task altogether, but I promise you it isn't that bad! Yes, there are many nights of little sleep and frustration at having to get up again to feed them when you swore you just fell back asleep, but it will be okay, I swear, there is a moment where something just clicks, the "parent" light switch turns on and you just do what you have to do. Even during the scariest part for me, which was labor, there was this moment when I thought I couldn't push anymore or take the pain, and then there was the click. I swear it seemed like God came in and helped me do the rest. I didn't seem to feel the pain, I could only concentrate on the last of the pushing; I felt like they drugged me up, the nurses and my midwife said I acted like it too. haha
I am sure there will be many more lessons in life, and I will go through more hard times, and a whole lot of good times. Whatever you do, never stop trusting God, never stop loving, and never stop forgiving,
Tuesday, December 9, 2014
Thursday, August 7, 2014
Is it just harmless breastfeeding?
I am sure you have all heard of the nurse-ins, the rants about women who get told to cover themselves up when breastfeeding in public, and you hear how outraged the breastfeeding community get. If you haven't heard of this going on yet, just do a quick internet search and I am sure you will have plenty of articles to read that will brief you in a hurry. Don't read the comments though unless you want to get fed up with how people discuss this issue, really it isn't a true discussion, it is more of a "who can insult the other person more?" battle. I have tried discussing this before on social media but have since given up. I can only take so many insults toward myself before I have to politely say that we will have to agree to disagree, if I wouldn't I would probably say something I regret. I will say that a few actually knew how to constructively talk about this topic, which I was thankful for. After that discussion, I decided that this just needs expanded on in a blog. So what are we to think about breastfeeding without a cover? How should we approach this topic?
This is another one of those topics that is so controversial, and points are so very often misconstrued, so I should probably write a disclaimer like I have done on a few of my other posts. I am not saying that you cannot breastfeed in public, I am only questioning the debate of covering up vs. not covering up. I am all for breastfeeding, it is much healthier for the baby. One other common topic in this debate is that breastfeeding isn't banned by law, law actually supports it. Yes, that is true, law does state that you can breastfeed in public. What law does not specify is being covered or uncovered. In my opinion, that decision is left up to the business. If a business asks you to cover, be respectful of their wishes and cover. Better yet, ask them their rules regarding it before you go so you can be prepared. The law I mentioned pertains to Indiana at least, I am not sure about the rest of the states. I think I covered what needed to be said, let's get down to business.
First question that usually comes up is, "Is this right or wrong?". I hate to get all philosophical on you, but that is where my brain goes next. Ponder these questions before we move on:
1. How do you decide what is right and wrong?
2. Why do you think that?
3. Where do you believe we come from?
4. What is our purpose in life?
I do believe those four questions help a person come to a decision about many topics in life. Well, maybe not come to a decision depending on what you do believe, but it will at least help you get a little further along in figuring it out. I bet I can guess what you are thinking, is it "how do these questions relate to this topic?"? I'll explain. In short, what you believe about right and wrong stems from your core beliefs on life. If you believe in Christianity, God created us around 6000 years ago, we live to please Him, and look to Him regarding right and wrong. Our guidebook is the Bible, and our purpose is to love others and tell of His love to other people. Evolution is believing the earth is around 4.6 billion years old, we evolved from apes, and our purpose I would assume is to reproduce (No, that comment isn't studied. That is my thought concerning purpose since with evolution we would just be animals, and the mission of an animal is to ensure the survival of your species).
Evolution and Creationism are two common faiths in the world, but do you see how depending on what you believe, it can change your perception of what is right and wrong? If it were the case that evolution is true, I would say why not breastfeed without a cover? Animals walk around naked all the time anyways, right? What is the difference? We are actually more modest than most animals. I wonder how right and wrong are determined with that faith. I commonly hear it going back to emotion and what feels right. On the contrary, if you believe in the Bible, you should be carrying a totally different tune. We are made in the image of God, and God said to honor Him with our bodies. Honoring Him with our bodies means taking care of ourselves, and respecting how He created us. What does God say about a woman's breasts? Proverbs 5:19, "A loving doe, a graceful deer-- may her breasts satisfy you always, may you be ever captivated by her love." This tells me that breasts are not only for nourishment of a child, but they are sexual as well. Let us be real though, doesn't your husband love your breasts? Men, don't you peak at your wife and admire those? Especially if you are feeling a little frisky, that is one of the two areas men grab. Sorry if I am getting you a little uncomfortable, but we have to face this fact. I hear it said that men can separate the natural act of breastfeeding and sexual attraction to a woman. I am sorry, but I don't believe that. Some men can, but not all. I just came across a picture on facebook where an attractive woman was breastfeeding her baby without a cover, and a man commented saying, "I want what he is having!". Yeah, I don't think he was able to separate the two.
I would speak of other faiths as well, but I believe you get my point. Determining where you stand on an issue stems from what you believe about life. How do we compromise on this issue then when there are decidedly different viewpoints? I think we should stop thinking so selfishly, it isn't all about you, it isn't all about me. If a business would desire you to cover up, respect that, if you don't like it then don't give them your business. If a business would allow it, that is perfectly fine as well, I just won't go there because it makes me uncomfortable to see other women's boobs. In public areas though like the zoo, museums, and parks, I would say it would be appreciated if one would cover up. I ask that you would do that not by law, not because you are forced, but to be respectful of other people. I am not going to go demand that a law be made where women are forced to cover up, that is ridiculous. Leave it to the business. Also, there are men who struggle with porn, you wonder if that would make it hard for some men to stop when they see that. Do I have proof of that? Of course not. I do wonder if it does make it harder though seeing how some men cannot separate the two. Another reason is out of respect for other families. Many families see breasts as a very very private body part only for a husband or nursing baby to see. Please, respect their beliefs and cover up. I know many are worried that the baby will get too hot, but I think there are ways around that. Go to a store and get some airy fabric. It wouldn't be hard to make a simple cover-up. I worked in Missouri one summer, and even when it was in the 90's, my boss ALWAYS had on jeans and a long-sleeve shirt. He said that it kept him cooler since he was used to it. I believe that if babies are used to being covered, they will eat just fine. Especially if their cover-up is a light fabric. I won't be experiencing this for another few months, but my sister said she never had a problem and it does get in the 90s a lot where I live. You can pump beforehand as well, they do make coolers, and if it is so hot that you can't cover up, then maybe the sun can heat it up for you! ;)
Questions that were asked when I have mentioned these things before are:
1. How would you like to eat with a blanket over your head? I would hate it, but I have a shirt on and a face isn't a sexual body part.
2. What, are you insecure or do you and your husband have that unstable of a relationship that you don't trust each other? No, I am not insecure and my husband and I trust each other. We just don't agree with seeing other women's boobs. He only wants to see mine, I only want him to see mine. Again, we do trust each other. It isn't about that. It is about personal beliefs concerning showing bare chest. We feel the same about skimpy clothes and see-through shirts where you can plainly see a woman's bra. It isn't modest or fair to men who want to keep their thoughts pure. We won't force you to cover up, but just ask you to be considerate and respectful of other people. You don't know how it affects them.
3. Breastfeeding is natural and needed, it should be fine!-- Yes it is natural and needed. Many things are natural and needed like relieving yourself, but in our culture it is something done behind closed doors. Sex is natural to make the baby you are breastfeeding, but that is private as well. No sex isn't a need, but you show the same part you do when you breastfeed. That same part that is used as a part of sexual pleasure. So breastfeeding is a natural need that is fine to do, but it is proper/respectful to do it covered up.
The following is just something I wonder, I am not saying it is true, I just ask that you think about it. I have considered the idea that breastfeeding without a cover could be a part of new age feminism. It is a way to be on equal grounds with men. The reason I wonder this is because I see many women saying, "Men go around without a shirt, so why can't I?" Also, "Men just have to get used to the idea that our boobs aren't only for their pleasure." These comments seem to stem for a resentment of how men see women. I understand that feeling, women are commonly portrayed in music as eye candy. Women don't really help these matters with the way some dress and dance. I have fallen prey to busting a move to "Baby's Got Back", and I wonder now why when I totally take into account the words of the song. Respect from men won't come unless you respect yourself first. If you just flaunt your goods to them, they won't respect you. Make them work for it, get a ring on that finger first ladies.
In closing, will everyone agree with me on this? Definitely not. There are many people out there that believe it is okay to do, and I know I won't change their mind. I just hope you consider what I said before you breastfeed uncovered. Never unravel an issue with, "How is this good/bad for me?", but "How is this good/bad for everyone?"
January 2016
UPDATE: I have been nursing my girl for over a year. I have been many places where it was warm, and I had to nurse her with my cover. Was it convenient? No. Did I manage? Yes! I was able to keep her cool. There are ways to do it ladies! Get creative! :) I know you can do it!
This is another one of those topics that is so controversial, and points are so very often misconstrued, so I should probably write a disclaimer like I have done on a few of my other posts. I am not saying that you cannot breastfeed in public, I am only questioning the debate of covering up vs. not covering up. I am all for breastfeeding, it is much healthier for the baby. One other common topic in this debate is that breastfeeding isn't banned by law, law actually supports it. Yes, that is true, law does state that you can breastfeed in public. What law does not specify is being covered or uncovered. In my opinion, that decision is left up to the business. If a business asks you to cover, be respectful of their wishes and cover. Better yet, ask them their rules regarding it before you go so you can be prepared. The law I mentioned pertains to Indiana at least, I am not sure about the rest of the states. I think I covered what needed to be said, let's get down to business.
First question that usually comes up is, "Is this right or wrong?". I hate to get all philosophical on you, but that is where my brain goes next. Ponder these questions before we move on:
1. How do you decide what is right and wrong?
2. Why do you think that?
3. Where do you believe we come from?
4. What is our purpose in life?
I do believe those four questions help a person come to a decision about many topics in life. Well, maybe not come to a decision depending on what you do believe, but it will at least help you get a little further along in figuring it out. I bet I can guess what you are thinking, is it "how do these questions relate to this topic?"? I'll explain. In short, what you believe about right and wrong stems from your core beliefs on life. If you believe in Christianity, God created us around 6000 years ago, we live to please Him, and look to Him regarding right and wrong. Our guidebook is the Bible, and our purpose is to love others and tell of His love to other people. Evolution is believing the earth is around 4.6 billion years old, we evolved from apes, and our purpose I would assume is to reproduce (No, that comment isn't studied. That is my thought concerning purpose since with evolution we would just be animals, and the mission of an animal is to ensure the survival of your species).
Evolution and Creationism are two common faiths in the world, but do you see how depending on what you believe, it can change your perception of what is right and wrong? If it were the case that evolution is true, I would say why not breastfeed without a cover? Animals walk around naked all the time anyways, right? What is the difference? We are actually more modest than most animals. I wonder how right and wrong are determined with that faith. I commonly hear it going back to emotion and what feels right. On the contrary, if you believe in the Bible, you should be carrying a totally different tune. We are made in the image of God, and God said to honor Him with our bodies. Honoring Him with our bodies means taking care of ourselves, and respecting how He created us. What does God say about a woman's breasts? Proverbs 5:19, "A loving doe, a graceful deer-- may her breasts satisfy you always, may you be ever captivated by her love." This tells me that breasts are not only for nourishment of a child, but they are sexual as well. Let us be real though, doesn't your husband love your breasts? Men, don't you peak at your wife and admire those? Especially if you are feeling a little frisky, that is one of the two areas men grab. Sorry if I am getting you a little uncomfortable, but we have to face this fact. I hear it said that men can separate the natural act of breastfeeding and sexual attraction to a woman. I am sorry, but I don't believe that. Some men can, but not all. I just came across a picture on facebook where an attractive woman was breastfeeding her baby without a cover, and a man commented saying, "I want what he is having!". Yeah, I don't think he was able to separate the two.
I would speak of other faiths as well, but I believe you get my point. Determining where you stand on an issue stems from what you believe about life. How do we compromise on this issue then when there are decidedly different viewpoints? I think we should stop thinking so selfishly, it isn't all about you, it isn't all about me. If a business would desire you to cover up, respect that, if you don't like it then don't give them your business. If a business would allow it, that is perfectly fine as well, I just won't go there because it makes me uncomfortable to see other women's boobs. In public areas though like the zoo, museums, and parks, I would say it would be appreciated if one would cover up. I ask that you would do that not by law, not because you are forced, but to be respectful of other people. I am not going to go demand that a law be made where women are forced to cover up, that is ridiculous. Leave it to the business. Also, there are men who struggle with porn, you wonder if that would make it hard for some men to stop when they see that. Do I have proof of that? Of course not. I do wonder if it does make it harder though seeing how some men cannot separate the two. Another reason is out of respect for other families. Many families see breasts as a very very private body part only for a husband or nursing baby to see. Please, respect their beliefs and cover up. I know many are worried that the baby will get too hot, but I think there are ways around that. Go to a store and get some airy fabric. It wouldn't be hard to make a simple cover-up. I worked in Missouri one summer, and even when it was in the 90's, my boss ALWAYS had on jeans and a long-sleeve shirt. He said that it kept him cooler since he was used to it. I believe that if babies are used to being covered, they will eat just fine. Especially if their cover-up is a light fabric. I won't be experiencing this for another few months, but my sister said she never had a problem and it does get in the 90s a lot where I live. You can pump beforehand as well, they do make coolers, and if it is so hot that you can't cover up, then maybe the sun can heat it up for you! ;)
Questions that were asked when I have mentioned these things before are:
1. How would you like to eat with a blanket over your head? I would hate it, but I have a shirt on and a face isn't a sexual body part.
2. What, are you insecure or do you and your husband have that unstable of a relationship that you don't trust each other? No, I am not insecure and my husband and I trust each other. We just don't agree with seeing other women's boobs. He only wants to see mine, I only want him to see mine. Again, we do trust each other. It isn't about that. It is about personal beliefs concerning showing bare chest. We feel the same about skimpy clothes and see-through shirts where you can plainly see a woman's bra. It isn't modest or fair to men who want to keep their thoughts pure. We won't force you to cover up, but just ask you to be considerate and respectful of other people. You don't know how it affects them.
3. Breastfeeding is natural and needed, it should be fine!-- Yes it is natural and needed. Many things are natural and needed like relieving yourself, but in our culture it is something done behind closed doors. Sex is natural to make the baby you are breastfeeding, but that is private as well. No sex isn't a need, but you show the same part you do when you breastfeed. That same part that is used as a part of sexual pleasure. So breastfeeding is a natural need that is fine to do, but it is proper/respectful to do it covered up.
The following is just something I wonder, I am not saying it is true, I just ask that you think about it. I have considered the idea that breastfeeding without a cover could be a part of new age feminism. It is a way to be on equal grounds with men. The reason I wonder this is because I see many women saying, "Men go around without a shirt, so why can't I?" Also, "Men just have to get used to the idea that our boobs aren't only for their pleasure." These comments seem to stem for a resentment of how men see women. I understand that feeling, women are commonly portrayed in music as eye candy. Women don't really help these matters with the way some dress and dance. I have fallen prey to busting a move to "Baby's Got Back", and I wonder now why when I totally take into account the words of the song. Respect from men won't come unless you respect yourself first. If you just flaunt your goods to them, they won't respect you. Make them work for it, get a ring on that finger first ladies.
In closing, will everyone agree with me on this? Definitely not. There are many people out there that believe it is okay to do, and I know I won't change their mind. I just hope you consider what I said before you breastfeed uncovered. Never unravel an issue with, "How is this good/bad for me?", but "How is this good/bad for everyone?"
January 2016
UPDATE: I have been nursing my girl for over a year. I have been many places where it was warm, and I had to nurse her with my cover. Was it convenient? No. Did I manage? Yes! I was able to keep her cool. There are ways to do it ladies! Get creative! :) I know you can do it!
Thursday, July 31, 2014
Return evil for....evil? Is that what we do?
I just read "Happy Happy Happy, The Legend of Duck Commander" by Phil Robertson, and it was very interesting learning about his life struggles and what he learned from it, but the chapter called "River Rats" really caught my attention. I highly recommend reading that chapter, even if you read nothing else in it, go to the library and spend 15 minutes in a comfy chair and read. :) I suppose that is what led me to write about this...that and I also happened to randomly choose a chapter to read and it was Romans 12, which is all about how we treat others. Funny how that happens. So how do we treat people we don't like, those we consider more evil than ourselves? That raises a question I want you to ponder first. Why do we treat some other people differently when we all deserve the same fate? Even if the worse you have done is disobeyed your parents, you still deserve hell. So ask yourself, "Why if we all are equal, equally sinful, do I feel uncomfortable and put off by someone doing wrong? Why do I treat them with an upturned nose and avoid them? If someone does ME wrong, why do I still feel like I need to keep them at arms length or run them out of my life?". It is not easy being kind to someone who has wronged you, it isn't normal in the world we live in, and we commonly see evil being dealt to those who are kind. Seeing this is very discouraging and it makes it hard for us to follow some commands that we see repeated in the Bible, it can be summed up in the Sermon on the Mount. Jesus says in Matthew 5:44, "But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,". When we read this, we play down the description of love. Do we think about loving our enemies the same way as we interpret other verses about loving our friends and family? Or even how Jesus loves us? One example Jesus gave about loving your enemies was while He was on the cross, he prayed, "Father, forgive them, they don't know what they do." Could you do that while you are being put to death? How about when someone steals from you, what thoughts would cross your mind?
I am sure this question also crosses your mind as it does mine, "Why should I go out of my way to be kind when I know that it won't do any good? I may even get hurt in the end instead!". Yes that is true, but what if you don't? What if your actions encourage that person to think about what makes you different from everyone else? It could encourage them to find God. More often than not, we do not see how our actions effect the people around us. Have people gotten hurt from being kind? Sadly, the answer is yes. God knows that some people won't change, in Romans 12:18 it says, "If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all." See? God acknowledges that some people insist on sticking with evil, we won't be able to rid the world of it just by kindness to all. God is the only one who will be able to get rid of evil at His second coming, but it can be better by listening to God's word. Act with kindness, love, gentleness, peace, and forgiveness.
How do we get this wrong? Sometimes it is just the little things people do that make us irritated, mad, and annoyed at another person. Enemies don't always have to be someone that is out to hurt you, it can just be someone you dislike. Some of my faults are being annoyed with other drivers, getting mad at those in government positions taking away my freedoms, people who always seem to find something to criticize, those who only think of what is comfortable for them and not anyone else, and more. Instead of being irritated and wishing they would just go away, our response should be to pray for them. We don't know their life story, we don't know why they act the way they do. Even if we disagree with someone, we should pray for them and ask God to guide them to the path He wishes and to open their hearts to Him.
On a final note, I feel that when we act this way, we are judging the individual and putting them in a situation where we judge them as being unworthy of our love and kindness. This is also an issue Jesus addresses in his Sermon on the Mount. In Matthew 7 He says, "Judge not, that you be not judged. For with the judgement you pronounce you will be judged, and with the measure you use it will be measured to you. Why do you see the speck that is in your brother's eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye?" I feel we do this a lot nowadays. We judge a certain sin as abhorrent without acknowledging the sins in our own life as being just as bad. When he says not to judge, it isn't saying not to confront an individual, but make sure you are of the right mind and attitude to speak. Just as you prepare to take communion so should you prepare to speak to another about sin. We have to self-examine ourselves and acknowledge our own sins, realize that you are a sinful human being as well in need of forgiveness. Do not speak to someone about their sin with a self-righteous attitude. Speak with humbleness, understanding, and love.
Pray over these things:
What do you do that displeases God in dealing with your enemies?
What enemies do you have in your life now?
How can you treat them in the way that is pleasing to God?
How can you include them in your prayers?
How do you approach the uncomfortable situation of speaking to others about sin?
I am sure this question also crosses your mind as it does mine, "Why should I go out of my way to be kind when I know that it won't do any good? I may even get hurt in the end instead!". Yes that is true, but what if you don't? What if your actions encourage that person to think about what makes you different from everyone else? It could encourage them to find God. More often than not, we do not see how our actions effect the people around us. Have people gotten hurt from being kind? Sadly, the answer is yes. God knows that some people won't change, in Romans 12:18 it says, "If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all." See? God acknowledges that some people insist on sticking with evil, we won't be able to rid the world of it just by kindness to all. God is the only one who will be able to get rid of evil at His second coming, but it can be better by listening to God's word. Act with kindness, love, gentleness, peace, and forgiveness.
How do we get this wrong? Sometimes it is just the little things people do that make us irritated, mad, and annoyed at another person. Enemies don't always have to be someone that is out to hurt you, it can just be someone you dislike. Some of my faults are being annoyed with other drivers, getting mad at those in government positions taking away my freedoms, people who always seem to find something to criticize, those who only think of what is comfortable for them and not anyone else, and more. Instead of being irritated and wishing they would just go away, our response should be to pray for them. We don't know their life story, we don't know why they act the way they do. Even if we disagree with someone, we should pray for them and ask God to guide them to the path He wishes and to open their hearts to Him.
On a final note, I feel that when we act this way, we are judging the individual and putting them in a situation where we judge them as being unworthy of our love and kindness. This is also an issue Jesus addresses in his Sermon on the Mount. In Matthew 7 He says, "Judge not, that you be not judged. For with the judgement you pronounce you will be judged, and with the measure you use it will be measured to you. Why do you see the speck that is in your brother's eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye?" I feel we do this a lot nowadays. We judge a certain sin as abhorrent without acknowledging the sins in our own life as being just as bad. When he says not to judge, it isn't saying not to confront an individual, but make sure you are of the right mind and attitude to speak. Just as you prepare to take communion so should you prepare to speak to another about sin. We have to self-examine ourselves and acknowledge our own sins, realize that you are a sinful human being as well in need of forgiveness. Do not speak to someone about their sin with a self-righteous attitude. Speak with humbleness, understanding, and love.
Pray over these things:
What do you do that displeases God in dealing with your enemies?
What enemies do you have in your life now?
How can you treat them in the way that is pleasing to God?
How can you include them in your prayers?
How do you approach the uncomfortable situation of speaking to others about sin?
Tuesday, May 13, 2014
Vaccinations
Lately I have been seeing a lot about vaccinations. I am no expert on the topic, and I don't want to come across that I am, I am just wanting to say thoughts that have crossed my mind or information I have found. For just a moment, forget all you have heard about vaccines from today's medical field, just seriously consider what I am saying. Think about vaccines from the stance of hearing different options for the first time. After you do that, go research it for yourself. Look at both sides of the argument from the viewpoint of the writer/researcher. Personally, I tend to be suspicious of scientific articles/research, facts tend to be skewed to fit ones agenda, so I look at both sides and don't 100% rely on either. Remember the recent finding that scientists lied about research on global warming? Tends to make you wonder what else people lie about to fit their agenda. We all just need to do our best to sort out the truth. One thing I do find is that the vaccine debate is as equal as the opinion to whether crunchy or creamy peanut butter is better! Just so you know, I prefer creamy. :)
I will address the following in this blog:
1. Nutrition
2. Exercise
3. Ingredients of vaccines and the effect on our system
4. Charts showing the decline of diseases not in relation to vaccines
First off, I continually hear about nutrition. When the diseases were at a peak, much of the country wasn't eating well and living in unsanitary conditions. Diseases spread when we don't treat our body right, you don't feed yourself the right food, you aren't preparing your body to fight sickness. I have previously talked about how God gave us instructions to take care of our body, even in the Old Testament He gave rules about sanitation. I am sure you have seen the article about how the diseases are spreading, and they say it is because so many people are against vaccinations. Are they sure that is the reason? Look at how we eat today, is it really any better? Yes, we can eat produce in the store and it is SUPPOSED to be good, but what are the chemicals used on food doing to our body? Does our food have the right amount of nutrients like it should?
Check this out:
http://www.nbcnews.com/id/37396355/ns/health-diet_and_nutrition/t/nutritional-value-fruits-veggies-dwindling/#.U08Y6vldWBo
See what is happening? Conventional methods are destroying the nutrition available in our foods. As the soil is continuously depleted and more chemicals/fertilizers are used, the less amount of nutrients food is getting from the soil. Even in the Bible, God says to let soil rest the 7th year so it gains back nutrients. (Exodus 23:10-11) Not only nutrients in produce, but the amount of processed food we eat is terrible. Bread in the store, even if it says whole wheat, isn't good. The grain used is stripped of the wheat bran and wheat germ, those parts hold all the nutrients. Does nutrition contribute to our sickness? I think so. Exercise does too.
Today we are so lazy, look around you and observe. We have smart phones, television, internet, Wii, Xbox, and a host of other things to distract us. How much time did you spend outside on the last beautiful day? How often do you go on a walk, bike ride, or play kickball with your kids? Think about that in comparison to how much time you spend sitting around lazing about. Kind of pathetic isn't it? Yes, you may have a desk job, but that still doesn't give you an excuse for the weekends or not getting up 20 minutes earlier to do a quick yoga practice or walk on the treadmill. For me it would have to be setting aside time at night, I don't like waking up earlier than I have to! :)
How much better do you feel when you do have an active day? I know I feel great, and I have a rested sleep that night too!
There has been correlation with our body's ability to build immunity with frequent exercise:
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/007165.htm
I know this is hard to do, but you have to prioritize your time. How is it that in today's world of so many conveniences geared to give more time, we end up having less of it? Just that thought makes me determined to find where that time went, and get it back. What about you? What could you give up to have more time to exercise? Try a walk with you family before dinner, it could become a favorite part of the day. :) Just a last note on exercise, it doesn't have to make you sweat like it's 120 degrees with no wind in Arizona. Find something you enjoy, if you enjoy it you will stick with it. :)
Now on to the ingredients and symptoms of vaccines. My two concerns are formaldehyde and aluminum. Now I know that we encounter these ingredients in many of our daily products, and our bodies naturally produce a small amount of formaldehyde, but is this all too much? Here are a few links I want you to check out concerning overexposure to these ingredients.
http://www.globalhealingcenter.com/natural-health/aluminum-and-breast-cancer/
https://www.pathology.med.umich.edu/Safety%20Manual/Formaldehyde%20Final.pdf
http://www.globalhealingcenter.com/natural-health/formaldehyde/
What caught my attention was how both can cause respiratory health problems, and the links it has to asthma. Cases of asthma have risen greatly in the past 20 years. Think this has any correlation to the overexposure of chemicals we have today? Go take a look at your cleaners, how many of them have warnings stating "keep away from children" or "do not get in eyes"? You get wary just reading the bottle don't you? I think this has much to do with health problems of today. You can see more in the links below.
http://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2011/p0503_vitalsigns.html
http://www.aaaai.org/about-the-aaaai/newsroom/asthma-statistics.aspx
http://www.marylandpirgfoundation.org/news/mdp/report-chemicals-common-consumer-products-linked-childhood-asthma
http://www.commondreams.org/headlines04/1223-04.htm
There are many other ingredients in vaccines that I know nothing about. Calcium chloride is used in one of the influenza vaccines and it can cause nausea, vomiting, burning pain in the stomach, and dry/irritated skin. You can look up the other ingredients, I would be in front of the computer for hours if I looked up every single one! :) Here are two links you can take a look at. The second link contains the full list of ingredients in the vaccines, it is a PDF under "reference materials".
http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vac-gen/side-effects.htm
http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vac-gen/additives.htm
You can find so many other individuals who suspect a tie between various sicknesses and vaccines given to their child. While no official studies have been done, it does make a person wonder about the safety. Is it really so bad for a child to get some of the sicknesses anyways? A child has a strong immune system if fed proper food, the kind of proper food I mentioned at the beginning and in my other blog about organic foods. If we let a child get sick, they can build their immunity better for adult life. Under "more sites to explore", the living whole site mentions it when she talks with her 100+ grandma who only got a polio vaccine and she wonders if that is why grandma is still so strong. Her grandma eats real foods, stays active, and got those sicknesses as a kid. She also wonders if her grandpa died from a tumor that the polio vaccine could have caused.
Lastly, I want to tell you about how vaccines DID NOT cause the decrease infectious disease in the early 1900's, it fizzled out on its' own. This link I give you is great, I suggest reading the whole thing. It is lengthy, but it is very informative.
http://www.drkurtperkins.com/2012/05/my-crystal-clear-stance-on-vaccines.html
Some points he makes I would like to say here. Vaccines are supposed to help you produce antibodies, which are the molecules that fight against disease. Babies develop limited antibodies until after 6 months, that is why breast milk is important, the mom gives the baby antibodies through the milk. Why give babies vaccines then? Also, the graphs he uses shows when the vaccine was introduced along with the deaths caused by a certain disease. Interesting isn't it? One that caught my attention was the last graph on the KIGGS study done in Germany on vaccinated vs. unvaccinated children. As I previously stated, I suspect our overuse of chemicals in general causes much sickness now, and I lean towards vaccines as being rather pointless and an unnecessary risk.
Ultimately, my belief is that we could be a whole lot healthier if we put more of a priority on good food and exercise. Will we still get sick? Of course. Could my children still get chicken pox, polio, measles, mumps, etc.? Yes, they could. I will love my children unconditionally, so I have to make my best educated decision on what is best. We live in a broken world, our bodies aren't perfect and they will get sick. I believe it is better to build your immunity naturally, and treat your body well. God gave it to you and formed it, take care of it. Now get up and go exercise. :)
More sites to explore:
http://www.livingwhole.org/category/vaccinations/
http://www.nvic.org/vaccines-and-diseases/Vaccinations--Know-the-risks-and-failures-.aspx
http://vaccines.procon.org/#arguments
http://www.getrealforkids.com/resources/real-health/vaccines/2501-my-thoughts-on-vaccines
http://www.thankyourbody.com/why-we-chose-not-to-vaccinate-our-child/
http://www.thehealthyhomeeconomist.com/the-herd-immunity-myth-and-how-it-pits-parent-against-parent/
http://www.fhfn.org/united-states-court-admits-hepatitis-b-vaccine-caused-fatal-autoimmune-disease-in-infant/
I will address the following in this blog:
1. Nutrition
2. Exercise
3. Ingredients of vaccines and the effect on our system
4. Charts showing the decline of diseases not in relation to vaccines
First off, I continually hear about nutrition. When the diseases were at a peak, much of the country wasn't eating well and living in unsanitary conditions. Diseases spread when we don't treat our body right, you don't feed yourself the right food, you aren't preparing your body to fight sickness. I have previously talked about how God gave us instructions to take care of our body, even in the Old Testament He gave rules about sanitation. I am sure you have seen the article about how the diseases are spreading, and they say it is because so many people are against vaccinations. Are they sure that is the reason? Look at how we eat today, is it really any better? Yes, we can eat produce in the store and it is SUPPOSED to be good, but what are the chemicals used on food doing to our body? Does our food have the right amount of nutrients like it should?
Check this out:
http://www.nbcnews.com/id/37396355/ns/health-diet_and_nutrition/t/nutritional-value-fruits-veggies-dwindling/#.U08Y6vldWBo
See what is happening? Conventional methods are destroying the nutrition available in our foods. As the soil is continuously depleted and more chemicals/fertilizers are used, the less amount of nutrients food is getting from the soil. Even in the Bible, God says to let soil rest the 7th year so it gains back nutrients. (Exodus 23:10-11) Not only nutrients in produce, but the amount of processed food we eat is terrible. Bread in the store, even if it says whole wheat, isn't good. The grain used is stripped of the wheat bran and wheat germ, those parts hold all the nutrients. Does nutrition contribute to our sickness? I think so. Exercise does too.
Today we are so lazy, look around you and observe. We have smart phones, television, internet, Wii, Xbox, and a host of other things to distract us. How much time did you spend outside on the last beautiful day? How often do you go on a walk, bike ride, or play kickball with your kids? Think about that in comparison to how much time you spend sitting around lazing about. Kind of pathetic isn't it? Yes, you may have a desk job, but that still doesn't give you an excuse for the weekends or not getting up 20 minutes earlier to do a quick yoga practice or walk on the treadmill. For me it would have to be setting aside time at night, I don't like waking up earlier than I have to! :)
How much better do you feel when you do have an active day? I know I feel great, and I have a rested sleep that night too!
There has been correlation with our body's ability to build immunity with frequent exercise:
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/007165.htm
I know this is hard to do, but you have to prioritize your time. How is it that in today's world of so many conveniences geared to give more time, we end up having less of it? Just that thought makes me determined to find where that time went, and get it back. What about you? What could you give up to have more time to exercise? Try a walk with you family before dinner, it could become a favorite part of the day. :) Just a last note on exercise, it doesn't have to make you sweat like it's 120 degrees with no wind in Arizona. Find something you enjoy, if you enjoy it you will stick with it. :)
Now on to the ingredients and symptoms of vaccines. My two concerns are formaldehyde and aluminum. Now I know that we encounter these ingredients in many of our daily products, and our bodies naturally produce a small amount of formaldehyde, but is this all too much? Here are a few links I want you to check out concerning overexposure to these ingredients.
http://www.globalhealingcenter.com/natural-health/aluminum-and-breast-cancer/
https://www.pathology.med.umich.edu/Safety%20Manual/Formaldehyde%20Final.pdf
http://www.globalhealingcenter.com/natural-health/formaldehyde/
What caught my attention was how both can cause respiratory health problems, and the links it has to asthma. Cases of asthma have risen greatly in the past 20 years. Think this has any correlation to the overexposure of chemicals we have today? Go take a look at your cleaners, how many of them have warnings stating "keep away from children" or "do not get in eyes"? You get wary just reading the bottle don't you? I think this has much to do with health problems of today. You can see more in the links below.
http://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2011/p0503_vitalsigns.html
http://www.aaaai.org/about-the-aaaai/newsroom/asthma-statistics.aspx
http://www.marylandpirgfoundation.org/news/mdp/report-chemicals-common-consumer-products-linked-childhood-asthma
http://www.commondreams.org/headlines04/1223-04.htm
There are many other ingredients in vaccines that I know nothing about. Calcium chloride is used in one of the influenza vaccines and it can cause nausea, vomiting, burning pain in the stomach, and dry/irritated skin. You can look up the other ingredients, I would be in front of the computer for hours if I looked up every single one! :) Here are two links you can take a look at. The second link contains the full list of ingredients in the vaccines, it is a PDF under "reference materials".
http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vac-gen/side-effects.htm
http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vac-gen/additives.htm
You can find so many other individuals who suspect a tie between various sicknesses and vaccines given to their child. While no official studies have been done, it does make a person wonder about the safety. Is it really so bad for a child to get some of the sicknesses anyways? A child has a strong immune system if fed proper food, the kind of proper food I mentioned at the beginning and in my other blog about organic foods. If we let a child get sick, they can build their immunity better for adult life. Under "more sites to explore", the living whole site mentions it when she talks with her 100+ grandma who only got a polio vaccine and she wonders if that is why grandma is still so strong. Her grandma eats real foods, stays active, and got those sicknesses as a kid. She also wonders if her grandpa died from a tumor that the polio vaccine could have caused.
Lastly, I want to tell you about how vaccines DID NOT cause the decrease infectious disease in the early 1900's, it fizzled out on its' own. This link I give you is great, I suggest reading the whole thing. It is lengthy, but it is very informative.
http://www.drkurtperkins.com/2012/05/my-crystal-clear-stance-on-vaccines.html
Some points he makes I would like to say here. Vaccines are supposed to help you produce antibodies, which are the molecules that fight against disease. Babies develop limited antibodies until after 6 months, that is why breast milk is important, the mom gives the baby antibodies through the milk. Why give babies vaccines then? Also, the graphs he uses shows when the vaccine was introduced along with the deaths caused by a certain disease. Interesting isn't it? One that caught my attention was the last graph on the KIGGS study done in Germany on vaccinated vs. unvaccinated children. As I previously stated, I suspect our overuse of chemicals in general causes much sickness now, and I lean towards vaccines as being rather pointless and an unnecessary risk.
Ultimately, my belief is that we could be a whole lot healthier if we put more of a priority on good food and exercise. Will we still get sick? Of course. Could my children still get chicken pox, polio, measles, mumps, etc.? Yes, they could. I will love my children unconditionally, so I have to make my best educated decision on what is best. We live in a broken world, our bodies aren't perfect and they will get sick. I believe it is better to build your immunity naturally, and treat your body well. God gave it to you and formed it, take care of it. Now get up and go exercise. :)
More sites to explore:
http://www.livingwhole.org/category/vaccinations/
http://www.nvic.org/vaccines-and-diseases/Vaccinations--Know-the-risks-and-failures-.aspx
http://vaccines.procon.org/#arguments
http://www.getrealforkids.com/resources/real-health/vaccines/2501-my-thoughts-on-vaccines
http://www.thankyourbody.com/why-we-chose-not-to-vaccinate-our-child/
http://www.thehealthyhomeeconomist.com/the-herd-immunity-myth-and-how-it-pits-parent-against-parent/
http://www.fhfn.org/united-states-court-admits-hepatitis-b-vaccine-caused-fatal-autoimmune-disease-in-infant/
Tuesday, February 25, 2014
Are you using your gift?
Many of us have heard of the parable of the talents, but have you really thought about it? Read it again:
Master entrusting his servants to certain property while he was away, what does that mean for us?
The reactions of the master.
Finally, I want to urge you to take action. Think about what your gift is. Talk to your pastor, your parents, and your friends. Pray and seek God's will. What is your gift? It could be one on one conversations, participation in the church praise team, teaching, artistic abilities, and many others. Even giving a kind smile could help someone else out. Often, the gifts of a group can all be utilized for God's glory as well. There is power when all God's people come together. Second, educate yourself with God's word and never stop. God said that faith the size of a mustard seed can move mountains. Our faith has a lot of growing to do! God also said to always be prepared to have an answer for the hope that is in you, the hope in Christ Jesus, our Savior. If someone asks you a question that you don't have the answer to, it is okay to say, "I don't know, but I will study and get back to you." You don't want to give a wrong answer for the sake of not seeming smart. We aren't geniuses and people know that, being humble enough to say "I don't know" so you can give an educated answer later is the wise thing to do.
If you have any questions about what I believe, please ask! I want to talk to you about it!
Matthew
25:14-30
“For it
will be like a man going on a journey, who called his servants and
entrusted to them his property. To one he gave five talents, to
another two, to another one, to each according to his ability. Then
he went away. He who had received the five talents went at once and
traded with them, and he made five talents more. So also he who had the
two talents made two talents more. But he who had received the one talent
went and dug in the ground and hid his master's money. Now after
a long time the master of those servants came and settled accounts with
them. And he who had received the five talents came forward, bringing five
talents more, saying, ‘Master, you delivered to me five talents; here I have
made five talents more.’ His master said to him, ‘Well done, good
and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I
will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.’ And he
also who had the two talents came forward, saying, ‘Master, you delivered to me
two talents; here I have made two talents more.’ His master said to him,
‘Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I
will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.’ He also who
had received the one talent came forward, saying, ‘Master, I knew you to
be a hard man, reaping where you did not sow, and gathering where you
scattered no seed, so I was afraid, and I went and hid your talent in the
ground. Here you have what is yours.’ But his master answered
him, ‘You wicked and slothful servant! You knew that I reap where I
have not sown and gather where I scattered no seed? Then you ought
to have invested my money with the bankers, and at my coming I should have
received what was my own with interest. So take the talent from him and
give it to him who has the ten talents. For to everyone who has will more
be given, and he will have an abundance. But from the one who has not, even
what he has will be taken away. And cast the worthless
servant into the outer darkness. In that place there will be weeping and
gnashing of teeth.’
Now
pause real quick and pray about what you have read, read it again if you need
to really soak it in. What is Jesus saying to us? I will give you what I have
read, it was actually in my Bible study not too long ago, so I didn't come up
with this on my own! I just found it very valuable information, one which we
pass over all too quickly.
Master entrusting his servants to certain property while he was away, what does that mean for us?
This is
God giving us certain gifts, or talents, unique to us. God is entrusting us
with those gifts to use for His glory while He is away, and to share them with
others until we meet Him again. It doesn't have to make a million hits on
youtube or get a certain number of likes and shares on facebook to mean you
used your gift to the best of your ability. Many times you won't see the impact
you made on someone else. Jesus is coming back to make the world right again,
what are you doing with your time? We are supposed to walk by faith, which not
only means to trust God with everything in life, but to also live and breathe
it. What would your life look like if you stopped and thought about that
situation through the eyes of God first? What would you do differently? Your
thoughts, speech, actions, and way you spent your time could change, and for
the better also!
The reactions of the master.
Look at
how the master reacted when he got home, he was proud of the work the first two
servants did. They spent their time wisely and multiplied the gifts. The last
servant did nothing and he was cast out. Do you use your gifts to further the
kingdom of God? Love and compassion for others should drive you to want to tell
others about God's kingdom, the love and joy they could find there would far
exceed any experience on this earth! I remember watching a video of an
atheist who stated, "how much do you have to hate someone to not
proselytize?", which is evangelizing.
You can see the video here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZhG-tkQ_Q2w
That has always stuck with me, really think about it. Do you truly believe in hell? Do you truly believe God's word about how terrible of a place it is, and unbelievers will spend eternity there? Why would you avoid conversations with others about it for the sake of social awkwardness? Open up yourself to others, if God comes to your mind during conversations, don't hold back what you believe, speak up! Live your faith and don't be afraid of what people may think of you because of your belief. We have all shied away from the topic of religion, I did and I regret it. I often think about what I could have said. Their eternity is more important than a moment or two of awkwardness, remember that.
Finally, I want to urge you to take action. Think about what your gift is. Talk to your pastor, your parents, and your friends. Pray and seek God's will. What is your gift? It could be one on one conversations, participation in the church praise team, teaching, artistic abilities, and many others. Even giving a kind smile could help someone else out. Often, the gifts of a group can all be utilized for God's glory as well. There is power when all God's people come together. Second, educate yourself with God's word and never stop. God said that faith the size of a mustard seed can move mountains. Our faith has a lot of growing to do! God also said to always be prepared to have an answer for the hope that is in you, the hope in Christ Jesus, our Savior. If someone asks you a question that you don't have the answer to, it is okay to say, "I don't know, but I will study and get back to you." You don't want to give a wrong answer for the sake of not seeming smart. We aren't geniuses and people know that, being humble enough to say "I don't know" so you can give an educated answer later is the wise thing to do.
If you have any questions about what I believe, please ask! I want to talk to you about it!
Monday, January 27, 2014
Homosexuality
Homosexuality is a burning hot topic, many times people just avoid talking about it so relationships aren't strained between families, co-workers, and friends. I personally don't believe it is morally right to be engaged in a homosexual relationship, my reasons I will explain later. What really pains me is how people go about discussing the topic. It is one of those subjects that I believe Socrates and Plato would spend a whole day or more discussing, reason being, strong emotions of two people are involved.
Emotions play a strong part when discussing a topic, politicians use it daily, think of how many times you hear or see this. Healthcare: this woman and her child can't afford care so now the child is suffering unnecessarily. Gun laws: Children were killed in this school shooting and families are hurting, so we need to take away guns. Homosexuality: These two gentlemen love each other and have been in a committed relationship for over a decade, but they can't get a gym membership together, a cake shop refuses to make their wedding cake, they can't file taxes as a family, and more. When you discuss like this, you get caught up in considering the feelings of the people rather than what is good for the people as a whole. I am not saying I don't care about them, I do, a lot! That is why I have to look past that point, I need to support what is best for the well-being of everyone. Also, if I truly care about people who are homosexual, why would I let them believe that I am okay with what they do if my God, who I trust with all my heart, says it is wrong and bad for them? God created the whole world, and it is so very complex and amazing! In my opinion, He knows what is better for them and I have to trust that.
It pointedly says in the Old Testament that homosexuality is wrong, as well at the New Testament. Romans 1:24-27, "Therefore God gave them up in the lusts of their hearts to impurity, to the dishonoring of their bodies among themselves, because they exchanged the truth about God for a lie and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever! Amen. For this reason God gave them up to dishonorable passions. For their women exchanged natural relations for those that are contrary to nature; and the men likewise gave up natural relations with women and were consumed with passion for one another, men committing shameless acts with men and receiving in themselves the due penalty for their error." Why do we just turn our heads and not try to talk to them about it? Just saying on facebook that you disagree isn't talking to them about it, engaging in a conversation with them is. Develop a relationship with them, get to know the individual and their life story. I see a lot of other blogs about this topic also, as I said earlier, I hate the way people "discuss" this. Attacking the person and telling them they will go to hell IS NOT discipling! Come on, grow up. Remember the Golden Rule: Do to others as you would have them do to you. (Matt 7:12) If you are sinning, how would you like someone to tell you? Imagine if you don't think you are sinning, how would someone have to explain it to you for you to be open to hearing their opinion? Remember God's other command, love you neighbor as yourself.
When discussing homosexuality with others who believe that couples have a right to marry, you have to be aware of one thing. What is their core belief? What we believe about our origins GREATLY influences what we believe about life. Evolution and Creation both say it goes against nature. If you believe that is doesn't go against nature, where does this emotion and strong sense of love and feeling come from? If we are only animals, we would only have the drive to reproduce, and that's all that matters regarding sex. It wouldn't have the sense of pleasure and satisfaction. What about our ability to discuss this, and reason from different viewpoints? What gives us that free will and discernment?
People say that homosexuality is okay because the individuals are born that way, how can it be wrong if it was felt from an innocent child? Name one child that is sinless. One child that hasn't disobeyed their parents. We are sinful from birth, as David said in the Psalms, "Indeed, I was guilty when I was born; I was sinful when my mother conceived me." There will always be a sin that we are prone to, I have mine, I am sure you have yours. Your sin is no worse and no better than that of the homosexual. As followers of Christ, it is our duty to help our brothers and sisters fight their sin. We are in this battle with them. Show your support and love for them, don't hate.
Here lies the hardest question of all...Should gay marriage be legal. Well, if it was a society that still put Christ at it's center, and the government stilled formed laws in accordance with the Bible, then it would be an easy answer. Here is what is accepted more than prayer on television: sex, nudity, drugs, dishonoring parents, crude humor, language, gore, and more. If society and government accept this as fitting for our children to see when they are easily influenced, I have to say that we aren't a Christ-following country. If they aren't basing their decisions on Christian morals, what are they basing it on? Who makes the rules? Why do they make them that way? Who is to say what is right and wrong when they don't acknowledge an all-knowing Creator? The government needs to make a decision on who they are following: the will of God or the will of man. We need to be aware of who we vote in to office, encourage and pray for them. If we need to, remind them of who they believe in and where they need to look for answers.
Ultimately, we shouldn't focus on changing the behavior, we need to work at changing the heart of the nation. Don't cover up the symptom, focus on the disease. Live your life with the mindset that every step, every breath, is because of Christ. Your body is His temple, the Holy Spirit should guide your every word, decision, and action. Reflect God's love in your life, your faith should be apparent in all your actions. The church should be your support.
Little addition:
Something came to my attention recently regarding legalizing homosexual marriage. Would it hinder our first amendment rights?
From the first amendment.
"Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof."
Today, churches aren't supposed to endorse certain candidates for office because that supposedly goes against the separation of church and state (I don't believe that is what the separation means though). Would allowing homosexual marriage by law prohibit the church from exercising our beliefs from teaching God's word regarding the practice? It would be described as "hate speech" to many individuals I bet even though we do not hate the individual, just disagree with their actions. Think about it.
When discussing homosexuality with others who believe that couples have a right to marry, you have to be aware of one thing. What is their core belief? What we believe about our origins GREATLY influences what we believe about life. Evolution and Creation both say it goes against nature. If you believe that is doesn't go against nature, where does this emotion and strong sense of love and feeling come from? If we are only animals, we would only have the drive to reproduce, and that's all that matters regarding sex. It wouldn't have the sense of pleasure and satisfaction. What about our ability to discuss this, and reason from different viewpoints? What gives us that free will and discernment?
People say that homosexuality is okay because the individuals are born that way, how can it be wrong if it was felt from an innocent child? Name one child that is sinless. One child that hasn't disobeyed their parents. We are sinful from birth, as David said in the Psalms, "Indeed, I was guilty when I was born; I was sinful when my mother conceived me." There will always be a sin that we are prone to, I have mine, I am sure you have yours. Your sin is no worse and no better than that of the homosexual. As followers of Christ, it is our duty to help our brothers and sisters fight their sin. We are in this battle with them. Show your support and love for them, don't hate.
Here lies the hardest question of all...Should gay marriage be legal. Well, if it was a society that still put Christ at it's center, and the government stilled formed laws in accordance with the Bible, then it would be an easy answer. Here is what is accepted more than prayer on television: sex, nudity, drugs, dishonoring parents, crude humor, language, gore, and more. If society and government accept this as fitting for our children to see when they are easily influenced, I have to say that we aren't a Christ-following country. If they aren't basing their decisions on Christian morals, what are they basing it on? Who makes the rules? Why do they make them that way? Who is to say what is right and wrong when they don't acknowledge an all-knowing Creator? The government needs to make a decision on who they are following: the will of God or the will of man. We need to be aware of who we vote in to office, encourage and pray for them. If we need to, remind them of who they believe in and where they need to look for answers.
Ultimately, we shouldn't focus on changing the behavior, we need to work at changing the heart of the nation. Don't cover up the symptom, focus on the disease. Live your life with the mindset that every step, every breath, is because of Christ. Your body is His temple, the Holy Spirit should guide your every word, decision, and action. Reflect God's love in your life, your faith should be apparent in all your actions. The church should be your support.
Little addition:
Something came to my attention recently regarding legalizing homosexual marriage. Would it hinder our first amendment rights?
From the first amendment.
"Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof."
Today, churches aren't supposed to endorse certain candidates for office because that supposedly goes against the separation of church and state (I don't believe that is what the separation means though). Would allowing homosexual marriage by law prohibit the church from exercising our beliefs from teaching God's word regarding the practice? It would be described as "hate speech" to many individuals I bet even though we do not hate the individual, just disagree with their actions. Think about it.
Thursday, January 23, 2014
A Politically Incorrect View on Feminism and the Environment
A
politically incorrect view on feminism and the environment.
*Disclaimer-Before
you start to believe that I think no woman can work, I don’t. I just think that
is where we originally were intended to be. Men can grow up to be boys and
don’t feel responsibility, so then women are sometimes forced into the provider
position. I am thankful we have a society accepting of that need, but I don’t
think it’s where we are meant to be. Women at home would also help the
environment. Confused? I will explain.
I have been thinking a lot about environmentalists and
organic foods; I always thought they were overrated, just a way to make more
money. I carry a different tune now. Yes, I believe they overprice for the sake
of how popular it is becoming, but I can’t deny the benefits. First, let me
start off with a few Bible verses. I believe we all should start there when
looking for answers. The following is from Genesis 1 where God created the earth;
this is after he made Adam and Eve.
28 And God blessed them. And God said
to them, “Be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth and subdue it, and
have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and
over every living thing that moves on the earth.” 29 And
God said, “Behold, I have given you every plant yielding seed that is on the
face of all the earth, and every tree with seed in its fruit. You shall
have them for food. 30 And to every beast of
the earth and to every bird of the heavens and to everything that creeps on the
earth, everything that has the breath of life, I have given every green plant
for food.” And it was so.
God put Adam and Eve in charge of the earth; they are
supposed to take care of it. In the book of Matthew, Jesus talks about how much
God cares about the flowers of the field. Shouldn't we take the Earth into
consideration then too? I feel like we should treat the earth and animals with
respect, and that doesn't mean we have to become Vegan, I know I couldn't give
up my meat! What it means is that we
should treat the animals we eat with respect and let them grow and live in the
way that God intended. God created the plants and animals to live a certain way
that will enable us to get the nutrients our bodies need. Before the world-wide
flood, humans didn't eat meat. God
provided essential nutrients in the seeds, fruits, and vegetables. It wasn't
until after the flood He told us we could eat meat. There is a theory that the
environment was very different before the flood, there were palm trees found in
the arctic regions! I suspect that we once had access to all nutrients without
animals, but it changed after the flood. God always has a plan; do you think we
are following His plan now?
Think about what you eat and how much you eat. Is how your food grown/processed good for the
environment or you? Does it still hold vital nutrients our bodies needs? Does
it hold any nutrients? Mass production farms destroy many habitats, and the
demand for such items pressure farmers to keep up with consumer demand. The foods are full of chemicals to ensure a
productive crop, and they are genetically modified to resist certain diseases
or grow larger. These chemicals can be very harmful to your body! Do you think
God likes that, do you think He likes what we are doing to His creation? I previously wrote about being conscious about
treating our body as a Temple of the Holy Spirit, as the Bible tells us to do.
If there was a risk of it being harmful to your body, would you let it in to
God’s temple? Now let’s stop looking at
plants and shift toward animals. Look at how slaughter houses are run. Go look
up a documentary, search youtube for a video. You will be disgusted. God
lovingly made these animals, Adam and Eve used to walk in the Garden of Eden at
peace with these animals. Take a look at how they are being given hormones and
kept in unnatural habitats, all for the sake of convenience and keeping up with
the demand. This isn't all the fault of
the farmers. Go look in a mirror, that is also who you should blame. Do you remember
overeating a lot? I do. Think of how much that is a part of our culture, our
stereotype is fat Americans who don’t know when to quit eating. That also
contributes to the supply/demand factor.
Change the stereotype. We should be God-fearing, earth respecting, tough
and handy, smart, free, “don’t tread on me” Americans. Eat what you need, not
what you want. I am not only pointing fingers outward, I am pointing them at
myself too. I know the next question though, the next thought coming to you. It
came to me too…
How are we supposed to afford organic
food?
This is where I will know I will push buttons. Women…stop
it, just stop! You aren't equal to a man; you are not wired to live in the
provider role. You are a supporter. God made you to be a helper to the man, but
God gave men the responsibility of providing for the family, and the women the
caring/nurturing role for raising the children. Titus 2:4-5 “and so train the
young women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled, pure,
working at the home, kind, and submissive to their own husbands, that the word
of God may not be reviled.” Think about
this, if the woman stayed at home, she could learn how to grow a productive
garden, preserve food for the winter, and raise chickens and beef. Women have
begun to give in to what God warned us about in Genesis, “Your desire will be
for your husband, but he shall rule over you.”
This isn’t talking about sexual desire, it is referencing the desire to
tell him what to do, and to be in charge. We have all felt it, but you have to
fight it. Now, to the men, MAN UP! God
put you as the head of the household, study further into what the Bible says
concerning your role. It says in the
Bible that men are to love their wives as Christ loves the church; He
sacrificed all for the church. Jesus taught, discipled, cared for, and loved the
church unconditionally. It further says it the book of Titus to show
self-control, be models of good works, integrity, humbleness, and dignity. Ultimately,
it’s a team effort. Men, if you love
your wife, she will be able to respect you easier. Wives, if you respect your
husband, he will be able to love you easier.
Families, learn to
live with less! Some cities or additions have rules regarding gardens because
of how it makes the grounds look; it’s stupid if you ask me though. In that
case, cut down on expenses to afford quality food. You don’t need a smartphone,
you don’t need to get the latest and greatest gadget. You don’t need cable
television. You don’t need the new trends! You don’t need junk food, it’s
terrible for you anyways! Look at your bills, how much money do you waste on
these? You aren't wasting only money but quality time too. The time wasted on
such things is time you could spend with your family, God, reading a book, or
outside playing and/or working your garden. Men, take care of your family! Is
letting them waste time on such mindless activities healthy for them? Remember,
God will hold you accountable, how will you answer Him if he asks you if you
put a stop to unhealthy habits? Not only that, but how will it prepare them for
the world ahead? Too much I see this, the wasting of so many good minds.
Children are so curious and eager to learn, fuel it! With the mother at home,
she has more time and energy to help this along, to teach children a love of
learning. She has energy in the morning at least; help is needed asap when you
come home from work. ;) The different
jobs given by God can also help with this chemical and hormonal ridden food in
our culture. What else will they help with?
- No need for mass farms
- You have control over your food
- The money you save could balance the income of two jobs (baby sitter, school if you home-school {which is the better option I may add for most people}, you won’t eat out as much, growing your own food also keeps you more mindful of waste)
These are just different points I have been thinking about
lately and wanted to share. I will provide links to more information, but you
should look into other places also. As I said, I am just getting into this, so
I am by no means an expert or as learned as others who have been following this
way of living for years.
http://www.responsibletechnology.org/gmo-dangers/health-risks/articles-about-risks-by-jeffrey-smith/Doctors-Warn-Avoid-Genetically-Modified-Food-May-2009
Prayer Praise and Intimacy
This has
been weighing on me for a few weeks now, so I just had to write out my
thoughts. Your input of the idea would be greatly appreciated, or any
experiences or ideas you have yourself.
Where
has the intimacy gone?
For some
reason, prayer has been coming up a lot lately. It has been in church, at home,
and it was a major part in a Christian fiction series I was reading. It
all started from those books actually, the Freelandia series by Kent Larson.
There is a blind girl named Maria that has a special place to go to with God as
her only audience, she prays and praises him there and it is the most joyful,
worshipful experience. I can feel her joy through the words. It got me thinking
about how personal prayer and praise with our God seems to be so lacking in my
life, and in the church as a whole. That kind of worship isn’t only in the
fiction books, it is all throughout the Bible, so where is it now?
Let us
look in the New Testament, what kind of worship life did the disciples have?
Paul praises God for the thorn in his flesh that he had even though God won’t
take it away, he praises God so the power of Christ will rest upon him. In
Paul’s weakness, Christ can be made strong. (2 Corinthians 12:7-10) In James,
it also talks about praying in all circumstances: cheerfulness, sickness,
suffering, etc. This example we are seeing is living and breathing God in all
we do. God is the source of all good, praise Him for it! Do we do that today?
In my opinion, we don’t. What are we missing?
Before I
start on that, let’s look at the Old Testament. Much of the NT is based on
traditions and practices of the OT. In the OT, the Israelites had their
connection to God through sacrifices and the temple priests. They still prayed
to God of course, the whole book of Psalms are prayers to God, and they are
very beautiful. But God dwelled in the temple among His people, not in them,
and forgiveness was done through sacrifices given to the priests. In the NT,
Jesus was the final sacrifice, and we are wiped clean of all sins. We don’t
have to do sacrifices anymore, all we need to do is accept the gift of
forgiveness and life through Jesus. Praise God! So where is the Spirit of God?
The Spirit of God is now inside of us, we became the temple! 1
Corinthians 6:19-20, “Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy
Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were
bought with a price. So glorify God with your body.” This is where I
believe we start to go off track. We don’t think about what treating our body
as the temple of God means. In the OT, the Israelites had practices of how they
would dress, act, and treat the temple of God. Do we think about how we treat
our temple? What do we let the temple see, hear, be dressed in? What do we feed
it, let it engage in, and go to? Think about that. Does God approve of how you
have treated His temple? I know He doesn’t approve of mine, thank you Jesus for
wiping my slate clean! The whole problem with this is that while the Lord knows
we mess up, we should still try and treat His temple with respect, honor, and
love in all that we do. We could feel so much closer to Him if we would learn
to be more conscious of that! Our prayer and praise life could become so much
more intimate and joyous.
As I
stated earlier concerning the Psalms, they are very beautiful. While we don’t
pray like that usually, do they sound that passionate? Are they that heartfelt?
Do we pray like we are speaking to a loving father who cares about us more than
we can fathom? Or do our prayers sound like we are praying just because God
told us to? God loves hearing from you no matter what, but don’t you yearn for
the closeness the Bible portrays? I do. I know God is listening when I pray,
but sometimes I feel He is on a distant throne in Heaven. My preconceived
notion is one of distance. Don’t we learn though that our body is a temple of
the Holy Spirit, a dwelling place of God? Why am I thinking of Him way up
there? He is up in heaven, but He is also in me. Why can’t I talk to Him where
He dwells in me? I can go to His dwelling place and praise Him and only Him
there. No one else is there to distract our special time together.
Ultimately,
I think it begins with how we live our life. We can’t go to church every
Sunday, and expect that only an hour can fulfill our spiritual needs. We live
in a world that constantly battles God and says that He isn’t there, and that
He doesn’t care about your life. We need to fight back with studying the
scripture, and with constant worship and praise! We need to learn to
surrender all to Him, it’s scary, but that is faith. It grows when hardships
come and you let God fight the battle. So praise Him in all you do, immediately
pray when hardships strike, constantly search for His will. He will always be
by us, remember to talk to Him, as Jesus says in Matthew, “I am with you
always, to the end of the age.”
Responsibility
This is something I wrote when the government shutdown was going on, it is still relevant today though with how we act.
I hear much debate concerning
whose fault it is about how the government is running right now. Is it the
democrats fault, or the republicans? The republicans are the ones who are being
so stubborn according to some people, and yet according to others, the
democrats are the ones who won’t budge. Personally, I am thankful the
republicans are standing their ground, but that is a whole other discussion. Ultimately
though, I hear people ask, “How did we come to this?” Look at some of these statistics from USA Today. Out of 62 schools, the average salary of a
college basketball coach is $1,465,752, with the highest being the coach of
Duke with a salary of $7,233,976. Out
of 116 schools, the average salary of a college football coach is
$1,598,359, with the highest being the coach of Alabama with a salary of $5,476,738. Let’s shift over to those in the
government now, the following are their salaries.
- President: $400,000
- Vice President: $231,900
- Speaker of the House: $223,500
- House and Senate Majority and Minority Leaders: $193,400
- Senators and Representatives: $174,000
- Chief Justice of the United States: $223,500
- Associate Justices of the Supreme Court: $213,900
- US Courts of Appeals Judges: $184,500
- Federal District Judges: $174,000
You probably wonder how sports and
government have anything in common. Consider this, what kinds of people always
make more money, or succeed in moving up the totem pole in business? Those who
give the people what they want. In
school, I learned the way to attract business was to appeal to the people. What
are the current trends? What draws people in to your location? That is what
helps you make it big in the world. I
used that knowledge to figure this out. How is it that college coaches can make
so much money, yet those in government make so much less when they are the ones
whose responsibility it is to echo our desires for America, and make laws that
greatly affect our country? Personally, I think being in the government is more
important and takes more responsibility than a coach. But as I learned, the
money goes where the interest of the people is. For the record, no I am not
saying that being a coach isn’t important, or takes no responsibility. I loved
my coach, she was one that both pushed us, yet taught us good sportsmanship. That
does take a special person. But government is a different kind of
responsibility, and can have even greater impact.
As
you ponder the points above, let’s look at what we remember most growing up.
What was always the big hype every year? Sports was the main event, even during
holidays when the family would get together, we always had to have the game on
for others. Look at kids, how early do organized sports start? They say it’s to
teach sportsmanship and teamwork, I think they can learn that at home with
their siblings, or at camp with other kids later. Ultimately, parents are
supposed to teach that! I know in the
stands, parents can get more hyped up about the game than the kids do. What do
the children learn by seeing the actions of their parents? Sports are very
important, they are cause for fun and entertainment between people, yet can
also cause people to get heated up and yell at each other. In the end, this is what riles people up the
most, and that is why coaches get paid so much more money. Fast-forward to high
school now, what are always the big events? The weekend school games and
homecoming! How much emphasis and importance are put on these? Well, a $60
million high school football stadium was built recently in Texas if that gives
you any indication. I remember growing
up seeing the nightly news and a time allotted just for reviewing the scores of
the night. There will be people in the stands cheering on their team, and then
school band performs a score during halftime to rally the stands. On the other hand, how much attention is
given to those who perform well academically? Not much compared to sports. While parents and adults are proud of those
who are great with learning, the kids don’t treat it as nicely. The honor students are many times seen as
nerds and outcasts.
I love sports, I always itch to
play another game of volleyball, I played for 7 years, and I often wish to be
on a team again to play competitively. I
was always excited and happy to have my parents come watch, and support what I
loved. I am glad that parents show so much support for what their children love
to do also, for I know how much it helps to have that. There has to be a
balance though. Parents also have the responsibility to teach their children to
have love for God, love for their country, and love for their fellow man. Where
our priorities lay show in the amount that coaches get paid in comparison with
the government. The state our country is in reflects how much attention we give
to what is going on in our nation. It is OUR fault. Don’t blame the democrats,
don’t blame the republicans, and don’t blame our president. We let it get this far by not educating
ourselves about how the government worked, not thoroughly investigating each
individual before we voted, and not taking action when we first saw it getting
out of hand. Sports are merely one example of what can be a distraction, but it
can be anything in the entertainment industry. Other distractions are music,
television, fashion, and ways of making money, just to name a few. Our founding
fathers risked their lives to be free of England and start a new country; it is
our responsibility to keep it how they wrote it at the beginning. How do we get
it back to the way it was?
I have been talking much about
what our focus needs to be on, and that is what needs to change. It is easy to
lose focus and go back to what feels good and what is easy. God, family, relationships, work,
government…it all takes work to keep it running smoothly. It is essential
though. God actually didn’t want His people to take a king in the Old
Testament, but the Israelites insisted, so He let it be. God knew that it is
easy for the power to take hold of a person and how they can turn tyrannical.
That is what happened too. Nations having kings continued on until we rebelled
against England. Our constitution was meant to have a balance of powers so no
one person had supreme power, and the power was to the states, not the federal
government. The current state of affairs has it backwards, and it is our job to
turn that around. I know it isn’t easy, it will be a long process and seem
hopeless at times, but never back down. If we took the easy route in 1776, we
would still be under the rule of England. Never think you can’t make a
difference. Begin by teaching children what is really important. If we put as
much importance on teaching our children about God and government as we do with
following sports and television, things could be a lot different.
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