Really good listen.
Showing posts with label Good listen. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Good listen. Show all posts
Wednesday, January 29, 2014
Tuesday, November 26, 2013
Guard Your Heart
This is just an excellent message from Wayne Grudem about the priority of guarding our hearts.
Friday, September 13, 2013
Monday, July 15, 2013
Dating
For many, figuring out the dating scene is wading through pretty murky waters. Here's a good message on the whole realm of relationships, dating, courting, and so forth.
Takeaway points:
- Men, take initiative.
- Women, don't have unrealistic expectations in what you're looking for in a husband (i.e. handsome, financially-secure, not a sinner, comfortable with children, speaks in poetry). Don't have expectations that are too low (breathing and interested).
- Men, look at the women who are serving right in front of you. Don't miss someone just because she might not fit the "profile" you were expecting.
- Women, a date is not the same as dating. Don't put undue pressure on some early opportunities to get to know someone.
- Men and women, don't pursue a relationship with someone who isn't growing in closeness with Jesus. It's not enough if someone says, "I'm a Christian." Watch for the trajectory of their life.
Takeaway points:
- Men, take initiative.
- Women, don't have unrealistic expectations in what you're looking for in a husband (i.e. handsome, financially-secure, not a sinner, comfortable with children, speaks in poetry). Don't have expectations that are too low (breathing and interested).
- Men, look at the women who are serving right in front of you. Don't miss someone just because she might not fit the "profile" you were expecting.
- Women, a date is not the same as dating. Don't put undue pressure on some early opportunities to get to know someone.
- Men and women, don't pursue a relationship with someone who isn't growing in closeness with Jesus. It's not enough if someone says, "I'm a Christian." Watch for the trajectory of their life.
Thursday, July 11, 2013
Weakness and Evangelism
This was a great word on how my personal weakness and ineptitude relate to sharing with others about Jesus. Encouraging. Convicting.
Friday, June 28, 2013
Women, Please Consider
As was mentioned to me this morning, here in Minnesota, we have two primary seasons: winter and road construction.
Well, road construction season is at hand, but that's not the only thing summer brings. I don't think I consciously considered the effect of women's summer clothing until I got married ... and my husband gave his honest perspective.
I wonder what comes to your mind when you hear the term "modesty."
Leave me alone.
Frumpy old women in turtlenecks and sweatpants.
Guys are the ones with the problem, not me.
Don't make me feel guilty about wanting to be stylish.
You are so irrelevant and out of touch.
This is primarily meant for women who are Christians, but if you're not, I have a word for you at the end.
For my sisters in Christ, I see two primary reasons why modesty is important.
First, for you. God tells us, "Likewise, I want women to adorn themselves with proper clothing, modestly and discreetly"(1 Tim. 2:9). The message linked at the bottom unpacks that section very helpfully. Bottom line, modesty is important because it's a reflection of our heart.
One definition of modesty is "dressing with reverence for God and regard for others." Sometimes we have to ask ourselves hard questions about why we wear what we do... Am I trying to attract attention? Whose values am I reflecting? What is my motive for wearing this? Is my physical appearance gaining too high a place in my priorities and passions?
Second, for men. Especially your brothers in Christ. For many women, your heart may be right. You have no desire to be immodest or pose a problem for others. But sometimes we are not aware of how we may affect others, especially men. The struggle for purity is strong and constant for virtually all men. Their call is not just physical purity, but minds and hearts that are free from any impure thoughts. This is a huge battle, and especially when our culture is bent on provoking lust and drawing their hearts away.
More than once, Ben has cautioned me about wearing something that I saw no problem with. "You don't know how guys are wired," he would say. And I confess that I have been defensive and resistant to his intervention more often than not. I am modest; don't be so picky! I would think. But that does not reflect an inclination to seek the good of others who may be weak where I am not.
"Rather determine this--not to put an obstacle or a stumbling block in a brother's way" (Rom. 14:13).
If you aren't convinced, you can hear a few excerpts of letters from Christian men who are pleading for their sisters to be partners in their fight for purity (click first link below).
And if you're not a Christian, maybe what the Bible has to say doesn't mean much to you. Yet I urge you to consider, dressing with decency and modesty does not cheapen you. On the contrary, it demonstrates to men--and to everyone--that you are a person of deep dignity and value. You are not an object. You are not willing to expose yourself to just anyone who walks down the street. You are precious, unique, and worthy of respect. Maybe that's not something you've heard before, but it's true.
For the message that prompted these thoughts, and a good thought-provoking listen, click here.
And another interesting message, which reflects on the origin of bikinis.
Well, road construction season is at hand, but that's not the only thing summer brings. I don't think I consciously considered the effect of women's summer clothing until I got married ... and my husband gave his honest perspective.
I wonder what comes to your mind when you hear the term "modesty."
Leave me alone.
Frumpy old women in turtlenecks and sweatpants.
Guys are the ones with the problem, not me.
Don't make me feel guilty about wanting to be stylish.
You are so irrelevant and out of touch.
This is primarily meant for women who are Christians, but if you're not, I have a word for you at the end.
For my sisters in Christ, I see two primary reasons why modesty is important.
First, for you. God tells us, "Likewise, I want women to adorn themselves with proper clothing, modestly and discreetly"(1 Tim. 2:9). The message linked at the bottom unpacks that section very helpfully. Bottom line, modesty is important because it's a reflection of our heart.
One definition of modesty is "dressing with reverence for God and regard for others." Sometimes we have to ask ourselves hard questions about why we wear what we do... Am I trying to attract attention? Whose values am I reflecting? What is my motive for wearing this? Is my physical appearance gaining too high a place in my priorities and passions?
Second, for men. Especially your brothers in Christ. For many women, your heart may be right. You have no desire to be immodest or pose a problem for others. But sometimes we are not aware of how we may affect others, especially men. The struggle for purity is strong and constant for virtually all men. Their call is not just physical purity, but minds and hearts that are free from any impure thoughts. This is a huge battle, and especially when our culture is bent on provoking lust and drawing their hearts away.
More than once, Ben has cautioned me about wearing something that I saw no problem with. "You don't know how guys are wired," he would say. And I confess that I have been defensive and resistant to his intervention more often than not. I am modest; don't be so picky! I would think. But that does not reflect an inclination to seek the good of others who may be weak where I am not.
"Rather determine this--not to put an obstacle or a stumbling block in a brother's way" (Rom. 14:13).
If you aren't convinced, you can hear a few excerpts of letters from Christian men who are pleading for their sisters to be partners in their fight for purity (click first link below).
And if you're not a Christian, maybe what the Bible has to say doesn't mean much to you. Yet I urge you to consider, dressing with decency and modesty does not cheapen you. On the contrary, it demonstrates to men--and to everyone--that you are a person of deep dignity and value. You are not an object. You are not willing to expose yourself to just anyone who walks down the street. You are precious, unique, and worthy of respect. Maybe that's not something you've heard before, but it's true.
For the message that prompted these thoughts, and a good thought-provoking listen, click here.
And another interesting message, which reflects on the origin of bikinis.
Thursday, June 13, 2013
Looking to Die
From Noel Piper's message (my rough quote):
HT: Capitol Hill Baptist
The cross ("T") cancels out the big "I" of self.
HT: Capitol Hill Baptist
Wednesday, June 5, 2013
Friday, May 17, 2013
Wives, Husbands, and What They Should Do
Here is a good message about roles in marriage and some ideas of how to prepare for them if you're not yet married.
Thursday, May 16, 2013
The Great Commission and When to Leave or Stay At a Church
This was a helpful sermon by Mark Dever, addressing the role of the local church in the Great Commission. He has a whole section of helpful thoughts to consider about leaving or staying at a church.
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
How to Live With a Disability
This is my friend Krista, who spoke at a conference recently, called The Works of God, and shared these profound and beautiful words:
HT: Justin Taylor
HT: Justin Taylor
Monday, November 12, 2012
Biblical Health and Wellness
This is a very helpful message (from one of the elders at our church) about how to think about the myriad questions, concerns, and ideas about caring for the health of your family.
Wednesday, September 26, 2012
Saturday, September 15, 2012
Andrew Peterson, Cedar Valley, and Bethlehem
Sometimes the strands of life weave together in an unexpected way.
On Monday, I listened to this presentation by Andrew Peterson called "What If? The Place of Imagination in God's Kingdom."
The message sent me back to my early days as a writer and my first book, Jill, the Princess Mermaid. (True confessions.) I don't know how many books I started in my youth...and then I ended up as a English Writing major in college.
It was delightful, so I was excited to listen to the second presentation, "So What? The Place of Imagination in God's Kingdom." An early line struck me: Imagination waters the garden of hope. Got my creative juices flowing.
And then he started talking about the song, "Queen of Iowa," written about a woman with AIDS in Cedar Rapids, IA who is full of hope in Jesus. He said, "People brag about the fact that they know Jody."
And I know Jody.
Well, really, I have only gotten to meet her in person once, many years ago. But it is my growing-up church, Cedar Valley Bible Church, that is mentioned in the store Andrew tells--a story about the couple, John and Jody, and how Jody contracted AIDS through a violent rape and John has faithfully loved and cared for her for a decade and a half, and how they both came to know Jesus through it, and how a church reached out to them to cover them with care and prayer.
And it makes me again remember how thankful I am for that little Bible church, where I saw Christ's body at work in such tangible ways all through my growing up years.
So, there's a tangle of connections for you, all pointing to God's grace at work.
(Here's a YouTube of "The Queen of Iowa." Somebody tell me of that's not legal and I'll take it off!)
On Monday, I listened to this presentation by Andrew Peterson called "What If? The Place of Imagination in God's Kingdom."
The message sent me back to my early days as a writer and my first book, Jill, the Princess Mermaid. (True confessions.) I don't know how many books I started in my youth...and then I ended up as a English Writing major in college.
It was delightful, so I was excited to listen to the second presentation, "So What? The Place of Imagination in God's Kingdom." An early line struck me: Imagination waters the garden of hope. Got my creative juices flowing.
And then he started talking about the song, "Queen of Iowa," written about a woman with AIDS in Cedar Rapids, IA who is full of hope in Jesus. He said, "People brag about the fact that they know Jody."
And I know Jody.
Well, really, I have only gotten to meet her in person once, many years ago. But it is my growing-up church, Cedar Valley Bible Church, that is mentioned in the store Andrew tells--a story about the couple, John and Jody, and how Jody contracted AIDS through a violent rape and John has faithfully loved and cared for her for a decade and a half, and how they both came to know Jesus through it, and how a church reached out to them to cover them with care and prayer.
And it makes me again remember how thankful I am for that little Bible church, where I saw Christ's body at work in such tangible ways all through my growing up years.
And coincidentally, Andrew Peterson is coming to my other church home for a concert on September 27. Ticket information here.
So, there's a tangle of connections for you, all pointing to God's grace at work.
(Here's a YouTube of "The Queen of Iowa." Somebody tell me of that's not legal and I'll take it off!)
Friday, August 24, 2012
Wednesday, August 15, 2012
Proud of Daddy
Dear Victor,
Tonight, we are so proud of Daddy. He is officially done with classes as a student (last class was Monday)! Student teaching may be yet ahead, but he has completed coursework for his Urban Elementary Education degree. Hurray!
You have never known life without Daddy in school. For that matter, I have never known married life without Daddy in school. So this is a wonderful event!
Furthermore, Daddy did a great job tonight sharing the message at our church mid-week picnic. He was supposed to give this talk on Sunday at a men's water event... but it was too cold, so they cancelled the event. But we know it wasn't an accident, and it was great to hear him share tonight instead!
(Message to be posted soon, Lord willing.)
Big hugs and slobber kisses to Daddy!
Hallelujah, thank You, Jesus!
Life on the Edge
If you're feeling like life is a little bland (or, for that matter, if you're feeling like your life is a bit out of control), here's a message that's good for a little perspective shift.
"Dangerous faith in our untamed Savior, that leads us to the joy we crave." -Randy Alcorn
Also, at the end of the message is a memo about how you may receive 6 free issues of WORLD magazine.
"Dangerous faith in our untamed Savior, that leads us to the joy we crave." -Randy Alcorn
Also, at the end of the message is a memo about how you may receive 6 free issues of WORLD magazine.
Saturday, July 28, 2012
Saturday, May 26, 2012
Long Ago
Ben and I were just looking at some old photos of Victor. Old, being 4 1/2 months ago. That feels like such a long time ago already. He was just a tiny little peanut then.
I remember that moment when I first saw him after birth. He was swooped away by the NICU team, so I didn't get to hold him immediately. But they brought him over to me for just a few minutes, swaddled in a little blanket, before taking him downstairs to his room. I did love him. But I didn't know him.
I used to look at him sleeping and think he looked like a baby doll, such precious, perfect little features. And when he woke up, I had lots and lots of moments of bewilderment. What do I do with this little person? He would cry. And I would cry, not knowing how to help him.
We've had him in our arms only half as long as I carried him during pregnancy, but we just love learning about our little son.
He has never declined a meal, no matter how much I have tried to "cluster" them in the evenings.
He thinks it's hilarious to watch his daddy do sit-ups.
When extremely hungry, he scrunches up his nose, gulping down the first mouthfuls of milk.
He holds my fingers when he rides in the Baby Bjorn, brave to face the world, as long as momma is right there.
He loves people, giving out happy, whole-body smiles generously at church.
When he wakes up from a nap or night of sleep, he cries until we come in and turn on the light, and then he catches our eye and gives a huge, slow smile and pulls his legs straight up in the air and rolls onto his side.
He's never real thrilled about getting in the carseat.
When Victor is crabby, his favorite activities are going outside, standing up on someone's lap, and snuggling on momma's shoulder, while we smile into the mirror.
Although normally mild and content, when tired or hungry, he can absolutely bellow. This normally hits us by the end of a long Sunday at church, which is when we know it's time to make our exit. :)
What a precious gift it is, to see this little person grow. We've had 4 1/2 months with Victor and love him more as the days go by, love that aches to see him thrive, to see him grow into a man of God, to see him trust Jesus and walk in the light all his days.
O Jesus, keep our sweet little Victor in Your arms and guard him from evil and from harm. Thank You for the exhausting, perplexing, and endearing adventure of parenthood. Let us honor You in it.
I remember that moment when I first saw him after birth. He was swooped away by the NICU team, so I didn't get to hold him immediately. But they brought him over to me for just a few minutes, swaddled in a little blanket, before taking him downstairs to his room. I did love him. But I didn't know him.
I used to look at him sleeping and think he looked like a baby doll, such precious, perfect little features. And when he woke up, I had lots and lots of moments of bewilderment. What do I do with this little person? He would cry. And I would cry, not knowing how to help him.
We've had him in our arms only half as long as I carried him during pregnancy, but we just love learning about our little son.
He has never declined a meal, no matter how much I have tried to "cluster" them in the evenings.
He thinks it's hilarious to watch his daddy do sit-ups.
When extremely hungry, he scrunches up his nose, gulping down the first mouthfuls of milk.
He holds my fingers when he rides in the Baby Bjorn, brave to face the world, as long as momma is right there.
He loves people, giving out happy, whole-body smiles generously at church.
When he wakes up from a nap or night of sleep, he cries until we come in and turn on the light, and then he catches our eye and gives a huge, slow smile and pulls his legs straight up in the air and rolls onto his side.
He's never real thrilled about getting in the carseat.
When Victor is crabby, his favorite activities are going outside, standing up on someone's lap, and snuggling on momma's shoulder, while we smile into the mirror.
Although normally mild and content, when tired or hungry, he can absolutely bellow. This normally hits us by the end of a long Sunday at church, which is when we know it's time to make our exit. :)
What a precious gift it is, to see this little person grow. We've had 4 1/2 months with Victor and love him more as the days go by, love that aches to see him thrive, to see him grow into a man of God, to see him trust Jesus and walk in the light all his days.
O Jesus, keep our sweet little Victor in Your arms and guard him from evil and from harm. Thank You for the exhausting, perplexing, and endearing adventure of parenthood. Let us honor You in it.
Sunday, May 20, 2012
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