You might be an Apostolic if...

1. If you were saved after midnight.
2. If you've ever been hit in the eyes by a flying bobby pin.
3. If you judge a service by how many hairpins you find in the floor. ("Wow, we had a 15 hairpin service!")
4. If the aisles at your church are not a safe place to be.
5. If you've ever sang the same chorus 89 times in a row.
6. If you've ever stood up and sat down more than 30 times in one service.
7. If your pastor takes off his watch at the start of a sermon....and it means nothing.
8. If there are footprints on the tops of the pews.
9. If a special singer forgets the words and someone says,"Bless him Lord".
10.If you've ever knelt at an altar and received therapeutic massage.



:) but I wouldn't trade it for the world!

Wrestling.

Sometimes in life when we're down & things are rough... we're not fighting against the devil, temptations, evils, or ever our own human natures... sometimes we are wrestling with God Himself. We push back and try to loosen ourselves from His grip when we pass through waters, fires, trials, & tribulations. But if you're His child, He won't let you go. He refuses to let you go. He wants to use us to do His work & to bring souls into the Kingdom. This greater purpose is why God will never let you go. Regardless of your situation, sin, or circumstance... you cling to Jesus and submit to Him and He WILL lift you up.



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J95rAr0gOFU

Why are you striving these days?
Why are you trying to earn grace?
Why are you crying?
Let me lift up your face
Just don't turn away

Why are you looking for love?
Why are you still searching?
As if I'm not enough?
To where will you go child,
Tell me where will you run?
To where will you run?

Cause I'll be by your side wherever you fall
In the dead of night whenever you call
Please don't fight these hands that are holding you
My hands are holding you

Look at these hands, at my side
They swallowed the grave, on that night
When I drank the world's sin
So I could carry you in
And give you life

Here at my side wherever you fall
In the dead of night whenever you call
Please don't fight these hands that are holding you
My hands are holding you
And I, I love you
And I want you to know
That I, I'll love you

i love this

Fret not thyself because of evildoers, neither be thou envious against the workers of iniquity.
For they shall soon be cut down like the grass, and wither as the green herb.
Trust in the LORD, and do good; so shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed.
Delight thyself also in the LORD: and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart.
Commit thy way unto the LORD; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass.
And he shall bring forth thy righteousness as the light, and thy judgment as the noonday.
Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for him: fret not thyself because of him who prospereth in his way, because of the man who bringeth wicked devices to pass.
Cease from anger, and forsake wrath: fret not thyself in any wise to do evil.
For evildoers shall be cut off: but those that wait upon the LORD, they shall inherit the earth.
For yet a little while, and the wicked shall not be: yea, thou shalt diligently consider his place, and it shall not be.
But the meek shall inherit the earth; and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace.
The wicked plotteth against the just, and gnasheth upon him with his teeth.
The LORD shall laugh at him: for he seeth that his day is coming.
The wicked have drawn out the sword, and have bent their bow, to cast down the poor and needy, and to slay such as be of upright conversation.
Their sword shall enter into their own heart, and their bows shall be broken.
A little that a righteous man hath is better than the riches of many wicked.
For the arms of the wicked shall be broken: but the LORD upholdeth the righteous.
The LORD knoweth the days of the upright: and their inheritance shall be for ever.
They shall not be ashamed in the evil time: and in the days of famine they shall be satisfied.
But the wicked shall perish, and the enemies of the LORD shall be as the fat of lambs: they shall consume; into smoke shall they consume away.
The wicked borroweth, and payeth not again: but the righteous sheweth mercy, and giveth.
For such as be blessed of him shall inherit the earth; and they that be cursed of him shall be cut off.
The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way.
Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the LORD upholdeth him with his hand.
I have been young, and now am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread.
He is ever merciful, and lendeth; and his seed is blessed.
Depart from evil, and do good; and dwell for evermore.
For the LORD loveth judgment, and forsaketh not his saints; they are preserved forever: but the seed of the wicked shall be cut off.
The righteous shall inherit the land, and dwell therein forever.
The mouth of the righteous speaketh wisdom, and his tongue talketh of judgment.
The law of his God is in his heart; none of his steps shall slide.
The wicked watcheth the righteous, and seeketh to slay him.
The LORD will not leave him in his hand, nor condemn him when he is judged.
Wait on the LORD, and keep his way, and he shall exalt thee to inherit the land: when the wicked are cut off, thou shalt see it.
I have seen the wicked in great power, and spreading himself like a green bay tree.
Yet he passed away, and, lo, he was not: yea, I sought him, but he could not be found.
Mark the perfect man, and behold the upright: for the end of that man is peace.
But the transgressors shall be destroyed together: the end of the wicked shall be cut off.
But the salvation of the righteous is of the LORD: he is their strength in the time of trouble.
And the LORD shall help them, and deliver them: he shall deliver them from the wicked, and save them, because they trust in him.

Psalm 37

ONE OF THE MOST BEAUTIFUL SONGS EVER WRITTEN....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uwWmvfbcRew

En medio del dolor
en medio de la afliccion
me das paz y me ensenas amor
todo lo que perdi
lo restaura el Senor en mi
me das las fuerzas para seguir

Devuelveme el gozo de tu salvacion
y tu espiritu noble me sustente
te necesito Dios sin ti no soy nada
te necesito Dios dame un nuevo corazon


Absolutely beautiful. Let me know if you want a translation!

a woman of strength

A strong woman works out everyday to keep her body in shape…
But a woman of strength builds relationships to keep her soul in shape

A strong woman isn't afraid of anything…
But a woman of strength shows courage in the midst of fear.

A strong woman won't let anyone get the better of her…
But a woman of strength gives the best of herself to everyone.

A strong woman makes mistakes and avoids the same in the future…
A woman of strength realises life's mistakes can also be unexpected blessings, and capitalises on them.

A strong woman wears a look of confidence on her face…
But a woman of strength wears grace.

A strong woman has faith that she is strong enough for the journey…
But a woman of strength has faith that it is in the journey that she will become strong.

my One, true love

Toma mi corazón, es Tuyo.

Toma mi corazón, es Tuyo.
    
Mi vida ofrezco ante Tu Altar,

En amor y santidad.

Toma mi corazón, es Tuyo.


Take my heart, O Lord, it's Yours.

Take my heart, O Lord, it's Yours.

I offer up my life before Your altar,

In love and holiness.

Take my heart, O Lord it's Yours.

This is my prayer; my petition. To give myself fully to the Lord, for He is the lover of my soul. Jesus is my first, truest love. He is all that we need.

I love you Jesus,

I worship and adore You.

Just want to tell You,

That I love You, more than anything.


Jesus, yo Te amo.

Te doy mi alabanza y Te adoro.

Solo quiero decir,

Que Te amo, mas que mi vida.

Te amo, mas que mi vida.

Te amo, mas que mi vida.

Te amo mas que mi vida, mas.

Don't Quit

When things go wrong, as they sometimes will,
When the road you're trudging seems all uphill
When the funds are low and the debts are high,
And you want to smile, but you have to sigh,
When care is pressing you down a bit-
Rest if you must, but don't you quit.

Life is crazy with its twists and turns,
as every one of us sometimes learns,
And many a fellow turns about
When he might have won had he stuck it out.
Don't give up though the pace seems slow-
You may succeed with another blow.

Often the goal is nearer than
It seems to a faint and faltering man;
Often the struggler has given up
When he might have captured the victor's cup;
And he learned too late when the night came down,
How close he was to the golden crown.

Success is failure turned inside out-
The silver tint in the clouds of doubt,
And you never can tell how close you are,
It might be near when it seems afar;
So stick to the fight when you're hardest hit-
It's when things seem worst that you must not quit.

Mascara?

"Mascara?", my boss asked me this morning. "Hillary, you have such beautiful eyes, I remember when I first met you and you always had make-up on and your eyes were like 'woah!' and now you look like...like a little girl. Put some mascara on. You look like crap today."

Unfortunately, this isn't the first time my boss has criticized me for not wearing make-up or not wearing pants. See, we are no longer allowed to have space heaters at work because they could "start a fire" so complaining about being cold, my boss simply said, "Why don't you try wearing pants for once?" And apparently, now wearing no make-up makes me "unprofessional".

Okay so I just have something to say to this -- I DON'T CARE! I am not living just to be "professional" (although I believe I always am), nor am I living to please men (and apparently my boss) with dark-rimmed eyes and provocative eyelashes. What I am striving for is holiness -- a beauty I have, just the way God created me.

Okay, the bottom line - why do I need to add to God's creation? Why do I need to "paint" over my face? Let's talk about where make-up started -- with the Egyptians that were enslaved. Marked with ink as ownership to their masters. The prostitutes painted their eyes and lips to seduce men. Until the 1960's, anyone woman that wore make-up was considered to be a harlot. Make-up is exactly as it says -- to "make up", cover up, hide, disguise, mask. Make-up is used to make a woman look more sexual - wide eyes, full blushed lips, and flushed cheeks.

So, boss, excuse me for not wanting my face to look seductive in front of the hundreds of old men that sit in front of me in my office each week. I am there to work! I am there working as an Apostolic Pentecostal woman who is passionate about her holiness unto the Lord.

Sure, it would be much easier to cover up the zits, brighten up my cheeks on a tired day, paint my eyes to draw attention. But who am I really trying to please? As the apostle Paul asks -- men or God? There is no man worth giving up my holiness standards for. I never will. I am a living sacrifice to God, holy and pleasing to Him. I am a temple of His Holy Spirit. Inwardly AND outwardly, His Spirit manifests itself. I am His; He calls me beautiful. And that's all the matters. That's it.

My boss knows full well what principles I hold to in my life so it's almost offensive... it frustrates me, makes me angry... so upsetting that I must blog about it here because I've just had it! And I don't believe I am alone in this. I think a lot of girls are tempted to please the world with their appearance, especially if you've got someone in your everyday life bringing you down to do so. But let me encourage you girls from the word of God:

"Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting;
but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised." (Proverbs 31:30)

"As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: 'Be holy, because I am holy.' " (1 Peter 1:14-16)

"Your beauty should not come from outward adornment—arranging the hair, wearing gold, or putting on fine apparel— rather let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God." (1 Peter 3:2-4)

Sisters, we have an incorruptible beauty. We are of high worth in God's sight. That is the greatest compliment of all.

I Will Never Be The Same

You found me in the garden
I was crying over Your grave
It sounded like music when You spoke my name

I know You came for the pretty and the plain
I hear You calling out my name
I know You came for the sinner and the saint
And I will never be the same

The first time that You saw me
I was wrestling demons on my own
You gave me my freedom
And I will never be, never be alone

Hallelujah, I will never be the same
Hallelujah, amen
Hallelujah, I will never be the same
I will never be the same
Hallelujah!

Liberation Theology

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made. In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness overcometh it not.

There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. This man came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all through him might believe. He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light. That was the true Light which gives light to every man coming into the world.
He was in the world, and the world was made through Him, and the world did not know Him. He came to His own, and His own did not receive Him. But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name: who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.

And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.
John bore witness of Him and cried out, saying, “This was He of whom I said, ‘He who comes after me is preferred before me, for He was before me.’”
And of His fullness we have all received, and grace for grace.

John 1:1-16

who will?

He cries in the corner where nobody sees
He’s the kid with the story no one would believe
He prays every night, “Dear God won’t you please
Could you send someone here who will love me?”

Who will love me for me?
Not for what I have done or what I will become
Who will love me for me
‘Cause nobody has shown me what love
What love really means

Her office is shrinking a little each day
She’s the woman whose husband has run away
She’ll go to the gym after working today
Maybe if she was thinner
Then he would’ve stayed
And she says…

Who will love me for me?
Not for what I have done or what I will become
Who will love me for me?
‘Cause nobody has shown me what love, what love really means

He’s waiting to die as he sits all alone
He’s a man in a cell who regrets what he’s done
He utters a cry from the depths of his soul
“Oh Lord, forgive me, I want to go home”

Then he heard a voice somewhere deep inside
And it said
“I know you’ve murdered and I know you’ve lied
I have watched you suffer all of your life
And now that you’ll listen, I’ll tell you that I...”

I will love you for you
Not for what you have done or what you will become
I will love you for you
I will give you the love
The love that you never knew

only love remains

Scenes of You come rushing through, You are breaking me down.
So break me into pieces that will grow in the ground.
I know that I deserve to die for the murder in my heart,
So be gentle with me, Jesus, as You tear me apart...

Kill the liar, kill the thief in me. You know that I am tired of their cruelty. Breathe into my spirit, breathe into my veins,
Until only love remains.

Burn away the ropes that bind and hold me to the earth.
The fire only leaves behind whatever is of worth.
I begin to see reality for the first time in my life.
I know that I'm a shadow, but I'm dancing in Your light.

Teach me to be humble, call me from the grace. Show me how to walk with You upon the waves.
Breathe into my spirit, breathe into my veins,
Until only love remains.

Breathe into me until only love remains.

what life would be like

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qdbPynNI9Xo

No Turning Back

The decision has been made: I am a disciple of Jesus.

My past is redeemed, my present makes sense, and my future is secure. I am finished and done with low living. I no longer need preeminence, prosperity, position, promotion, or popularity. I don't have to be right, first, tops, recognized, praised, regarded, or rewarded.

I now live by Presence, learn by faith, love by patience, lift by prayer, and labor by power. My face is set, my gate is fast, my way is rough, my companions few, my Guide reliable, and my misson clear.

I cannot be bought, compromised, or lured away. I will not flinch in the face of sacrifice, hesitate at the table of the enemy, ponder at the pool of popularity, or meander in the maze of mediocrity...

I won't give up, shut up, let up, or burn up 'til I've preached up, prayed up, paid up, stored up, and stayed up for the cause of Jesus Christ.

I am a disciple of Jesus.

I MUST go 'til he comes, GIVE 'til I drop, PREACH 'til all know, and WORK 'til He stops.

And when He comes to get His own, He'll have no problem recognizing me, because I have dedicated my life to be a part of the body committed to do whatever it takes.

Fought, Finished, Kept.

Rev. Jerry Jones - Calvary Tabernacle 75th Anniversary Celebration:

2 Timothy 4:7
"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith."


FIGHT:

When you take a stand for anything in this world today, you have to fight... But when you take a stand for the highest calling of all - Jesus Christ - all forces of evil will be after you.

We are fighting a "good fight", as Paul says. And a good fight is a fight in which you win! We are victorious!

FINISHED:

Never give up! There are people that quit, lay down their burden, and decide the price is too high. But we must make the decision - make it certain - that we complete the job God has given us.

It's easy to start. But it's not the same at the finish line. There's many who start, but much less that finish. And it doesn't matter how you cross the finish - what matters is that you GET across the finish! Paul didn't mention the race, he only said that he finished it! Make up your mind to finish!

KEPT:

There are many reasons to quit, and the devil will give us thousands of excuses, but God gives us ONE reason to keep going - His true Word; the gospel of Jesus Christ!

Matthew 10:22
"And you will be hated by all for My name’s sake. But he who endures to the end will be saved."

Keeping the faith is the most important - it is the reason for it all! Never lose sight of what we're fighting for - never let go!

2 Timothy 1:12-14
"For this reason I also suffer these things; nevertheless I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep what I have committed to Him until that Day.
Hold fast the pattern of sound words which you have heard from me, in faith and love which are in Christ Jesus. That good thing which was committed to you, keep by the Holy Spirit who dwells in us."

Our reason is One God! In Jesus' name! One doctrine! After two thousand years, we're still praising Him today! We're still separate saints! We've got a hold of something good!

Job 2:3
"Have you considered My servant Job, that there is none like him on the earth, a blameless and upright man, one who fears God and shuns evil. And still he holds fast to his integrity!"

Hold fast! Hold on to the Truth. We should love God until the last breath we take. We are anointed - and we have something that is sacred and beautiful - never lose it!

Paul kept THE faith. Not just any faith, but THE faith. Not a faith that is acceptable to the world, but the ONE TRUE faith. Repent of our sins, be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ and we will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. Live life with a pure heart - a purity and holiness that manifests itself both inwardly and outwardly. This is the only faith worth living for! And the only faith worth dying for! The only faith worth sacrificing our lives for... so that on that glorious day we may hear the Lord say, "Well done, my good and faithful servant."

I have made my decision
I have state my claim
I have drawn a line in the sand
And I'll not be ashamed
With the world behind me
And the cross before
By the grace of God
I will serve the Lord

I Know Who I Am

Despite the discouragement, when the world breaks me, when I burden for the lost, when I am sick, when there is death, when there disbelief, when there is waiting on the Lord, when there is pain and suffering... I know who I am! The world will hate me, because they hated Him first. But I hold on to the Truth. Because it's REAL, it's RIGHT, it's the ONE true faith and I am not ashamed.

Encouragement from Israel Houghton:

I know who I am

And I am Yours, I am Yours

And You are mine,

Jesus You are mine

I was running and You found me
I was blinded and you gave me sight
You put a song of praise in me
I was broken and You healed me
I was dying and You gave me life
Lord, You are my identity
Now I know

I know who I am
I know who I am
I know who I am
I am Yours
I am Yours

I am forgiven, I am Your friend
I am accepted, I know who I am
I am secure
I’m confident that I am loved
I know who I am
I am alive, I am set free!
I belong to You
And You belong to me

Though many slay me, though many forsake me, YET I will praise Him! I am His.

give me Your eyes

This is my prayer...

click here and watch

slow fade.

tolerance -- it's a problem that has eaten up our society today. especially in our churches... as the standards start to compromise, doctrine soon follows, and faith after that. nothing so shaky can stand up for long. stand your ground, brothers and sisters, stand your ground.

Be careful little eyes what you see
It's the second glance that ties your hands as darkness pulls the strings
Be careful little feet where you go
For it's the little feet behind you that are sure to follow

It's a slow fade when you give yourself away
It's a slow fade when black and white have turned to gray
Thoughts invade, choices are made, a price will be paid
When you give yourself away
People never crumble in a day
It's a slow fade, it's a slow fade

Be careful little ears what you hear
When flattery leads to compromise, the end is always near
Be careful little lips what you say
For empty words and promises lead broken hearts astray

The journey from your mind to your hands
Is shorter than you're thinking
Be careful if you think you stand
You just might be sinking

It's a slow fade when you give yourself away
It's a slow fade when black and white have turned to gray
Thoughts invade, choices are made, a price will be paid
When you give yourself away
People never crumble in a day
Daddies never crumble in a day
Families never crumble in a day

Why do you only wear skirts?!

This a question that I've been asked numerous times lately, as I am a new convert of the apostolic faith. Here, I am going to do my best to answer this question based soley on the Word of God and the advice of other Godly women.

Overview

Apostolic faith practices a doctrine of Holiness. It is NOT a set of rules. It is NOT legalism. It is a Biblical standard and principle.

"Therefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and rest your hope fully upon the grace that is to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ; as obedient children, not conforming yourselves to the former lusts, as in your ignorance; but as He who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, because it is written, “Be holy, for I am holy.” And if you call on the Father, who without partiality judges according to each one’s work, conduct yourselves throughout the time of your stay here in fear." - 1 Peter 1:13-17

We are never going to be truly Holy until we are glorified with God in Heaven. But here on earth we can be separated from the world, and honor the Lord with our practice of Holiness. Holiness is something that is special to me because I, as an individual, can do this for the Lord on my own behalf. Holiness is a very personal thing. Holiness is an inward thing - and reflected on the outside.

Don't you want to please the Lord with your appearance?

Peter says, 'be sober-minded'. This doesn't only mean not-drunk. 'Sober' = Serious about the pursuit of the Lord. Do not 'fashion yourself', or in other words pattern yourself, with the things of the world. Follow the Lord seriously and the outward will show it. Holiness is a separation from the world. God clearly states there is a difference between clean and unclean. He says we should be clean.

Holiness is the fear of the Lord and the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. We approach God with fear because He is Holy - not because we think He is going to condemn us, but because it is how He is to be approached - with fear and reverence for who He is. He's holy!

"Holiness, without which no one will see the Lord." - Hebrews 12:14

This scripture is not talking about whether you're going to Heaven or not. But it is saying that without Holiness, no one will see God. I don't know about you, but I want to see the Lord! Holiness is essential and commanded by God.

"Give unto the LORD the glory due to His name;
Worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness." - Psalm 29:2

Holiness is beautiful! In the sight of God, I am beautiful!

The fallen mind of the world looks at the human body as a plain canvas... like an artist wanting to paint and create. We've already been created! Everything we are and everything we have was created by God. Why do we need to add to it?? The world wants to "fix" the body through plastic surgery and try to make this human 'masterpiece.' We were created masterpieces to begin with! We are 'fearfully and wonderfully made.' (Psalm 139:14)

"Charm is deceitful and beauty is passing,
But a woman who fears the LORD, she shall be praised." - Proverbs 31:30

The fear of the Lord is holiness. Beauty is vanity. 'Vanity' means its going to pass away. Everything will be burned up and gone eventually. Like Solomon says in Ecclesiastes, 'everything is vanity' the same meaning of the word is used here to talk about worldy beauty.

What do you want to invest your time in? The things of this world? Spending hours on your hair and make-up and ornamentation? Or would you rather spend time on the things of God? Getting caught up in beauty is a wordly distraction. Holiness separates us from this.

"Do not let your adornment be merely outward—arranging the hair, wearing gold, or putting on fine apparel— rather let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God." - 1 Peter 3:3-4

What is a gentle and quiet spirit? Well, it doesn't mean that we are to be quiet all the time or we are to be doormats. But rather, having a gentle and quiet spirit is about peace and humility. When we have peace on the inside, we don't have to broadcast who we are on the outside. God values holiness in women as something of great worth. God values me, whether man does or not. Don't I want to be precious in the sight of God? Isn't pleasing our true love - the Lord - our most important priority?

Specifics for Women*
*According to the word of God. NOT legalistic because everyone is convicted at different levels. These are general holiness standards. Most details are just common sense - God gave us brains for a reason. :)

Dress

“A woman shall not wear anything that pertains to a man, nor shall a man put on a woman’s garment, for all who do so are an abomination to the LORD your God." - Deuteronomy 22:5

Criticism: 'The Old Testament laws do not pertain to us anymore after Christ.'

Truth: There were three different kinds of Old Testament laws that God had set in place for the Jews. The first were Sacrificial Laws which were wiped out after Jesus died on the cross - being the Ultimate sacrifice. Secondly, there were Ceremonial Laws. These were laws that were specific, or 'kosher' to the Jews because they didn't have the full revelation of God. They were laws about how to approach the presence of God. (ex. in verse 11) The final set of Laws, which still pertain to us today, were Moral Laws. Moral laws show us the difference between right and wrong. These Laws haven't changed! Moral laws don't include just the 'ten commandments'. In verse 5, God says that this is an "abomination" to Him. Abominations are things that God hates with all of His heart. These don't change! After the cross, God didn't just say "Okay, all the things I hated I am cool with now." This is just not true. God will always hate sin.

Criticism: "This verse doesn't say 'women shall wear skirts only'."

Truth: This verse was meant to be defined by the culture. The Bible wasn't written only for Americans. If God has used the word "skirt" in this passage, it would have confused other cultures... like the Asians or Indians. For example, the Indian women wear long tunics and pants and sometimes saris. Their apparel is different, but it still clearly differentiates a man and a woman. In Jewish times, men and women both wore robes... but there was a distinct difference in the make of their robes and how they were worn to separate the sexes. To define our culture, we can take a quick glance back at our history, say 50 years ago when women were only allowed to wear skirts in school. On our bathroom doors, women are defined by a symbolic figure wearing a skirt/dress. There is to be a distinct difference between a man and a woman. God values the difference between man and woman. Our femininity and man's masculinity were created to mesh together perfectly when they both are solid. When things become unbalanced, problems arise - and with the diminishing of other values in our society (marriage, family), we can already see the fruit of this sin. In Christ Jesus, man and woman are equal... but they are NOT the same!

Criticism: "There are women's pants!"

Truth: If you're asking that question, you're missing the point. It's not about the skirts or the pants - it's about being feminine by wearing something that pertains specifically to a lady. And in our culture, that is without-a-doubt a skirt or a dress. The bigger picture of this whole situation is modesy. I'm going to address that next, but while we are on the topic of pants - pants are not as modest as skirts or dresses. (Yes there are immodest skirts, but that's not what I'm talking about. Skirts that don't come up above the knee and are not tight is what the standard is.) Most pants or jeans are tight enough to show the shape of a woman's butt, thighs, and legs. This is not modest. We, as women, may not see it as clearly. But ask any man, and they will agree.

Modesty

"In like manner also, that the women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with propriety and moderation, not with pleated hair or gold or pearls or costly clothing, but, which is proper for women professing godliness, with good works." - 1 Timothy 2:9-10

Modesty is godliness. And godliness is holiness. Most people, when they think of modesty, they think solely of 'showing too much skin' or 'covering up'. Although that is important as well, Timothy warns against other things, such as 'costly clothing'. We have to be careful not to make idols out of clothing and what we 'adorn' ourselves with, especially jewelry. We shouldn't invest our money into these wordly things and we are called to be good stewards of our finances. Tithe the extra! 'Propriety and moderation' refers to a sense of honor and respect towards others and a reverance for God. (Hebrews 12:28 uses the same words to refer to reverence.) Holiness is an attitude of discresion, self-control, and chastity. If you want to profess holiness, do good works!

"Moreover the LORD says:

'Because the daughters of Zion are haughty,
And walk with outstretched necks
And wanton eyes,
Walking and mincing as they go,
Making a jingling with their feet,
Therefore the Lord will strike with a scab
The crown of the head of the daughters of Zion,
And the LORD will uncover their secret parts.'

In that day the Lord will take away the finery:
The jingling anklets, the scarves, and the crescents;
The pendants, the bracelets, and the veils;
The headdresses, the leg ornaments, and the headbands;
The perfume boxes, the charms,

and the rings;
The nose jewels,

the festal apparel, and the mantles;
The outer garments, the purses,

and the mirrors;
The fine linen, the turbans, and the robes.
And so it shall be:
Instead of a sweet smell there will be a stench;
Instead of a sash, a rope;
Instead of well-set hair, baldness;
Instead of a rich robe, a girding of sackcloth;
And branding instead of beauty." - Isaiah 3:16-24

It's not only about what God says 'not to do', but also about how God described the people that did do these things. I don't know about you, but I don't like the tone of God's wrath in this passage of Isaiah. The women here were caught up in pride and since that was their attitude, they ornimated themselves with worldy things. The origination of jewelry and make-up were for paganism, slavery, and bondage. (example: the egyptians) Now, there are no technical scriptures saying that women can't wear make-up, but let's take a look at how God describes women who paint their faces. This passage is about Jezebel, who is later referred to as the "hartlet church" in Revelation...

"Now when Jehu had come to Jezreel, Jezebel heard of it; and she put paint on her eyes and adorned her head, and looked through a window. Then, as Jehu entered at the gate, she said, “Is it peace, Zimri, murderer of your master?”
And he looked up at the window, and said, “Who is on my side? Who?” So two or three eunuchs looked out at him. Then he said, “Throw her down.” So they threw her down, and some of her blood spattered on the wall and on the horses; and he trampled her underfoot. And when he had gone in, he ate and drank. Then he said, “Go now, see to this accursed woman, and bury her, for she was a king’s daughter.” So they went to bury her, but they found no more of her than the skull and the feet and the palms of her hands. Therefore they came back and told him. And he said, “This is the word of the LORD, which He spoke by His servant Elijah the Tishbite, saying, ‘On the plot of ground at Jezreel dogs shall eat the flesh of Jezebel; and the corpse of Jezebel shall be as refuse on the surface of the field, in the plot at Jezreel, so that they shall not say, 'Here lies Jezebel.'" - 2 Kings 9:30-37

Since the history of the world, people have been associated with something by the way they look or dress. When you get dressed, you have to ask yourself, 'Who am I identifying with?' I can tell someone who is 'gothic', that they are 'gothic', and someone who is 'emo', that they are 'emo', etc. When someone looks at you, do they associate you with Jesus? Do they see the Lord? If you put something on, and have to ask, 'Is this okay?"... it probably isn't.

Hair

"The silver-haired head is a crown of glory,
If it is found in the way of righteousness." - Proverbs 16:31

"Nor shall you swear by your head, because you cannot make one hair white or black." - Matthew 5:36

Although the specifics on dyeing hair is not completely clear here, we can use our common sense to know that the dyeing of the hair is something done out of vanity. We are not to be vain, but holy. Set apart. The hair color that God created you with is perfect for you. God didn't make any mistakes. Your hair color is what's best for you and for your skin tone, eyes, etc. As we get older, gray or white hair is still beautiful - it is a crown of glory for God's people. Hair dyeing is a cultural fad that is commercialized. Hair product companies and salons don't care what you look like, they just want your money! The products and treatments are designed to make you think you 'must' have them in order to look your best. It's just another money-maker for the american consumer. Don't buy into the world's lies about what you should look like... be not conformed to the world... but be set apart and holy. Embrace the true beauty that God has created you with.

"Now I praise you, brethren, that you remember me in all things and keep the traditions just as I delivered them to you. But I want you to know that the head of every man is Christ, the head of woman is man, and the head of Christ is God. Every man praying or prophesying, having his head covered, dishonors his head. But every woman who prays or prophesies with her head uncovered dishonors her head, for that is one and the same as if her head were shaved. For if a woman is not covered, let her also be shorn. But if it is shameful for a woman to be shorn or shaved, let her be covered. For a man indeed ought not to cover his head, since he is the image and glory of God; but woman is the glory of man. For man is not from woman, but woman from man. Nor was man created for the woman, but woman for the man. For this reason the woman ought to have a symbol of authority on her head, because of the angels. Nevertheless, neither is man independent of woman, nor woman independent of man, in the Lord. For as woman came from man, even so man also comes through woman; but all things are from God.
Judge among yourselves. Is it proper for a woman to pray to God with her head uncovered? Does not even nature itself teach you that if a man has long hair, it is a dishonor to him? But if a woman has long hair, it is a glory to her; for her hair is given to her for a covering. But if anyone seems to be contentious, we have no such custom, nor do the churches of God." - 1 Corinthians 11:1-16

This passage is obvious and clear. Some churches like to pick and choose what they want out of the Bible to apply to their lives. But these verses are Scripture, too! They are just as important as the ones before them and after them. All Scripture is God-breathed. Let's dissect this passage...

It's not about short or long hair, it's about uncut hair. Many people say, "Well, if you just trim your hair it would be longer." That's not the point. Women shouldn't cut the hair on their head. Like Paul says, if you're going to shear it a little bit... you might as well shave it all off! Baldness was a punishment referred to earlier in Isaiah 3. The issue of hair is a submission issue. 'Submission' is a bad word in our culture today, but it shouldn't be. Submission is about being in order - the order that God created and organized. Men are called to be the priest of the household and women to submit to the man, who is in the will of God. (example... a figure 8... with God at the head, man below God, and woman below man who then submits to the man who brings them both to the glory of God.) Man is the image of the glory of God, and woman is the glory of man. If you have a problem with this, remember who got here first. A woman's hair is a sign of her submission. Why did God make these signs? Because they are obvious and can be seen by man. Man and woman were meant for eachother and they need eachother in the Lord. For men, long hair is a shame; but for women, long hair is their glory. Women's hair is their covering. 'Covering' is a noun - it's The covering. In verse 15, we can supplement the term 'long hair' wherever it says 'covering'. No woman can deny that there is an emotional connection to us and our hair!

Verse 10 is a bit confusing, but here is the cool idea... talking about how a woman's hair is her "symbol of authority because of the angels". So what does this mean?... Angels are ministers to the children of God, and although Hollywood likes to play up angels as these flowing, mystical creatures, angels are real. They are given very important jobs in the Bible. They don't preach, but they are messengers and protectors. We all know the story of Lucifer (Satan) when he fell. Why did he fall? Because he got out of his Divine order. He wanted to be just as good as God. There were no second chances. It was a submission issue that got him kicked out of Heaven. When a woman wears her hair uncut, it is a sign of submission to God in her Divine rank of the Lord. Now, the angels know about Lucifer. It is not something they forget. That is why we have spiritual warfare. When the angels look down and see a woman's holiness, it is a sign to them that they can act upon that woman on behalf of God without hesitation. Holiness is something that the angels must see with their eyes, for they cannot see our hearts. Holiness is an inward submission to God that can't help but be portrayed outwardly.

Closing Thoughts

This study was mostly on the standards of Holiness that pertain just to women. There is more to the doctrine of Holiness, but this is, as a woman, what I am most focused on. The other standards are mostly common sense. The underlying theme is to honor God in every aspect of our lives, and every aspect of how we look, act, and portray ourselves. There is, of course, a time for practicality and modesty that may overrank standard principle, but the heart of the matter is wanting to reflect God's glory. There is nothing more important to me than to be beautiful in the sight of the Lord. He made us perfectly the way we are supposed to be. We are beautiful!

Sometimes I wish I was someone other than me
Fighting to make the mirror happy
Trying to find whatever is missing
Won't you help me back to glory
You make me beautiful
You make me stand in awe
You step inside my heart, and I am amazed
I love to hear You say
Who I am is quite enough
You make me worthy of love and beautiful


Holiness, Holiness
is what I long for
Holiness, Holiness
is what I need
Holiness, Holiness
is what You want from me
so take my heart
and form it
take my mind
transform it
take my will
conform it
to Yours, to Yours, Oh Lord

Collision at the Cross

http://www.calvarytabindy.org/media.php?content=

check out Rev. Mullings sermon on the Cross... powerful!!

fight.

Blessed again today by Rev. Mullings...

"Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses." - 1 timothy 5.12

Fight the good fight!

"For everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith. Who is it that overcomes the world? Only he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God." - 1 john 5.4-5

have faith! we have the VICTORY!

WE NEED NOT TO BE PROBLEM FOCUSED BUT POWER FOCUSED!

Let your FAITH fight your fear.

In the company of death there is fear... but in the company of life there is faith. The devil likes to make us think that faith and miracles are equal. This isn't the case. Although God honors His faithful people, miracles don't always happen. The devil is a liar when he says something doesn't happen for us because we didn't have enough faith. Do not be discouraged!

Let your FAITH fight your facts.

God is more powerful than anything else on this earth. So you have your circumstances.... so what! You have the Holy Ghost! Hello! That is the POWER of the living God, the Creator of the universe living inside of you. Don't ever forget.

Let your FAITH fight your feelings.

Job - despite his horrible suffering, he said 'though He slay me, yet I will praise Him!' Victory comes when we praise the Lord! Despite our feelings, despite our physical well-being, despite our financial situations, despite our emotional needs... praise God! He will bless You! He is everything you need and more.

The angels praise the Lord singing, 'Holy, Holy, Holy is the Lord God Almighty!' We are created higher beings than the angels. There is power when we praise the Lord for His holiness. That is how we overcome. When we let the angels fight our battles against the evil forces and dominions of darkness. Just like Paul and Silas praised God in jail... they had victory! We have the victory in Jesus Christ. Holy are You Jesus! Holy are You God! Hallelujah!

Holy, holy, Thou art holy,
Holy Thou art God!
Thou art worthy, worthy
Thou art worthy, worthy
Thou art God!
Oh angels bow before Thee,
Heaven and earth adore Thee
Angles bow before Thee,
Heaven and earth adore Thee!

rmw pt. 2 - the cause

wow. that's all i can say about tonight. i am completely in awe of God's power and revelation to His people. there was a real true message spoke to us tonight that we all needed to hear. rev. jerry jones spoke on the cause of the christian life. it's not A cause, it's THE cause. the cause of Jesus Christ. as Paul says, it's 'because of the cause I live'. we have a very distinct purpose as apostolic believers in the world today and that is to witness to the lost. to find the hungry and bring them to church. to labor and serve as the 'lights of the world.' we have a calling that deals with the LIVES of people and their eternal destination. we have to 'go in to the fire and pull them out'. this country makes such a big ordeal about a missing child, or trying to save a person's physical life... and don't get me wrong - these are important things. BUT there are 'dead' and 'missing' people all around us! it's much more important than their phsyical well-being - it's about their souls! Satan will keep us from being bold in our witnessing. He will feed us lies and try to distract us. he can even distract us with good things - like feeding and clothing those less fortunate. this is a wonderful thing... but fleshly food and coverings is not ultimately what these people need. they need Jesus! Baptism! the Holy Ghost! rev. jones used the analogy of a good salesman. even when he gets rejected he presses on. we are to be aggressive in the cause of Christ. it's the most imporant thing we could do for someone else.

'For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age,against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.' - Ephesians 6:12

i know without a doubt God has called me to witness fiercly for Him to my unsaved friends and family. i will be sensitive to His calling and will forever testify on His behalf. He is the only thing that matters in the end. i am not ashamed. i will not be silent, no. i will not be quiet anymore.

in these changin' times
don't let 'em change your mind
in these changin' times
don't let the world change your mind

rushing mighty wind conference pt. 1

what a night! two outstanding pastors and ibc was back with a new song! rev. mullings reminded us of God's first name - 'wonderful'. referring to isaiah 9.6 'For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.' there is ONE God and His name is Wonderful! we should never forget the majesty of God. every time we enter into His presence, we need to be in awe of who He is. we are in communion with the Creator of the entire universe. hello! He is so Holy. when we fully grasp who God is, we are humbled by His greatness. 'Then you will understand the fear of the LORD, And find the knowledge of God.' (proverbs 2.5) the greatest thing to gain as a Christian is wisdom and understanding. the worst sin to come in between us and God is pride. we should never forget how Wonderful He truly is. as nicole c. mullen sings, 'let us not forget to tremble.' the fear of the Lord brings about a righteous life. as Paul tells the church of corinth in chapter 1.7, 'Therefore, having these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.'

rev. kinzey was on fire! the Holy Spirit had a great annoiting on that man tonight. he piggybacked with rev. mullings in the aspect of true praise to God. we are not to let the devil discourage us or cause us to feel too tired or too lazy to worship the Lord. the Holy Spirit gives us the power to overcome our circumstances in times of weakness. ibc sang a song that's chorus said 'there is victory when we praise Him!' how true is this statement. i don't know how many times i've gone to church not feeling well and i've just fought through it and praised the Lord anyway, and by the time i left service i felt completely fine. the Christian life is about laboring and serving. it's not a bunch of 'thou shall nots..' the two greatest commandments are 'thou shall' commandments - love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind. love your neighbor as yourself. who cares what anyone else thinks when you are worshipping - it's an audience of One you are singing for. it's not about the music, or the song type, or the choir, or the pastor, or anything else wordly. it's all about JESUS CHRIST. He is God and He is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow. He is ALIVE and living and working. brother kinzie spoke of a revival in indianapolis. something pastor mooney had been led to speak about over the months as well. i see the hunger that he is talking about in the people. my friends' hearts are softening and they are asking questions. people are seeking. the apostolic faith keeps growing. Sister Sarah might even become Vice President! :) but i am humbled when i realize that God has chosen me to help bring others to Him. that He would, as rev. kinsey put it, 'allow me to be a part of something much bigger than myself.' he referred to john 6.35, 'And Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life. He who comes to Me shall never hunger, and he who believes in Me shall never thirst.' we need to feast on Jesus. in order to do so, we must have an appetite for Him. are you hungry?

holy, holy, holy
is the Lord God almighty
who was and is and is to come
with all creation i sing,
'praise to the King of Kings!'
You are my everything
and i will adore You

shout out to my momma!

after spending time with the fam yesterday, i just wanted to express how blessed i am to have a mother who loves the Lord. mom, you are a wonderful example of a servant's heart. your beauty and class are an inspiration to women of any age. you make me look good! ;-) you have a genuine joy and love for others that makes everyone want to be around you. you always take care of your household and your family. you work so hard to keep things clean and organized. you've always prepared us amazing food and made sure we were comfortable. you were there for us everyday after school. you took interest in the details of our lives. you are a wonderful inspiration of a Godly wife. you work for the Kingdom whole-heartedly in your church and with your friends. you've been brave in standing up for your faith and for your family. despite your struggles, or how you were feeling on a particular day, you always took second place to anything that was going on in our lives. you perservered through much pain and suffering to bring abount an abundance of love. not only that, but you are fun! i don't laugh harder or longer with anyone else. us schafer/schmidt women have a sense of humor no one else can understand. that's what makes it so special. thank you for your encouragement and for building me up. thank you for your noble character. you are wonderful. i love you.

stand in the rain

She never slows down
She doesn't know why
But she knows that when she's all alone
It feels like it's all coming down

She won't turn around
The shadows are long
And she fears if she cries that first tear
The tears will not stop raining down

So stand in the rain
Stand your ground
Stand up when it's all crashing down
You stand through the pain
You won't drown
And one day what's lost can be found
You stand in the rain

She won't make a sound
Alone in this fight with herself
And the fear's whispering
If she stands, she'll fall down

She wants to be found
The only way out is through everything
She's running from
Wants to give up and lie down

So stand in the rain
Stand your ground
Stand up when it's all crashing down
You stand through the pain
You won't drown
And one day what's lost can be found
You stand in the rain



check it out by superchick

i will not be moved.

i have been a wayward child
i have acted out
i have questioned sovereignty
and had my share of doubt
and though sometimes my prayers feel like
they're bouncing off the sky
the hand i hold won't let me go
and is the reason why

i will stumble
i will fall down
but i will not be moved
i will make mistakes
i will face heartache
but i will not be moved
on Christ the solid rock i stand
all other ground is seeking sand
i will not be moved

bitterness has plagued my heart
many times before
my life has been like broken glass
and i have kept the score
of all my shattered dreams
and though it seemed
that i was far too gone
my brokenness helped me to see
it's grace i'm standing on!

i will stumble
i will fall down
but i will not be moved
i will make mistakes
i will face heartache
but i will not be moved
on Christ the solid rock i stand
all other ground is seeking sand
i will not be moved

and all the chaos in my life
has been a badge i've worn
and though i have been torn
i will not be moved


-natalie grant

anxiety: the problem and the solution

'is anxiety a disease or an affliction? perhaps it is something of both. partly... because you can't help it, and partly because for some reason, dark reason, you choose not to help it. you torment yourself with detailed visions of the worst thing that could possibly happen.' - frederick buechner

most of what we worry about doesn't happen. we worry about things that are out of our control.

'you will keep in perfect peace, him whose mind is steadfast, because He trusts in you.' - isaiah 26:3

'do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. and the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.' - philippians 4.6-7

but, it's not that easy... you say?

there are real concerns. true. over 19 million americans are diagnosed with clinical anxiety disorder. women are twice as likely. lucky us. let's take a look at the definition of worry...

worry--the condition of being drawn mentally in different directions. distraction of the mind. painful agitation in the presence of anticipation/danger. uneasiness of the mind, usually over an impending or anticipated ill often marked by self-doubt of being able to cope with it. dread.

sound familiar? :)

worry=fear. there are over 300 references to 'fear' in the Bible. (i.e. matthew 6.34) we clearly have two choices--to fear or to trust. when we worry, we take our eyes off the Lord and become fixed on the problem.

'worry causes us to regret the past and fear the future--what bondage! worry robs the present of our Presence.' - jerusha clark

lie: 'if only...'
truth: i can trust God with my past, present, and future. (isaiah 43.18-19)

no matter what decision i make, God makes a way. He's always doing a new thing. (luke 18.27, jeremiah 32.17) we can choose to remember God's faithfulness, or we can choose to worry.

lie: 'what if...'
truth: greater is He that is in us than he that is in the world. there is a hope for our future.

though we are vulnerable and sometimes life is out of control, we are not powerless! in fact, we have the greatest Power within us. the Spirit cannot be controlled and we are called to submit to His move. (john 16.33, hebrews 6.18-19) God cannot lie! (psalm 103.10, isaiah 54.10) our minds need to be just as active, alive, and consious to worry as they are to excerise faith. think about that.

lie: 'if i don't control my circumstances, no one will.'
truth: only God has the power to bring things, all things, under His control. (phillipians 3.21, 1 timothy 6.15)

when we poke holes in the truth of God's sovereignty, we dangerously undermine His character. God refers to Himself as the 'sovereign Lord' 303 times in the Bible! 'the Fear' is a hebrew name for God. fear of God banishes the terror that shrinks from His presence. fear of God=drives out worry. (genesis 32.22-31)

most worry is about ourselves. it is selfish. when we focus our minds on the needs of others, we no longer have an unhealthy focus on ourselves.

what can i do?

admit that worry accomplishes nothing. seek the presence of the Lord. in His presence there is peace and understanding. lean on others. verbalizing our worry helps us to tame it. don't be discouraged when fear arises. fear diminshes our memories of God's faithfulness and love for us.

pray. pray. pray.




seek Truth.

my attempt at the tough question...'why?'

when we ask the question, 'why?'--we claim that we are, in fact, intellectual enough to understand the answer and indeed worthy enough of the knowledge. what we don't realize is that it's not always about us--the reason could be for someone else, for something else--big picture or smaller, yet significant detail. we are instruments. sometimes used for praised solos, and other times for harmony--in accord with those of better or lesser quality--yet all together, is perfect.

perfection. doesn't mean everything is flawless. perfect means that a particular something is just the way it was meant to be. when we reach our full 'potential', or our full glory--it is then that we are perfected. when we are as true as we can possibly be, we are perfected--a verb, not an adjective. we are not made in the likeness of a certain model human being who defines the way we look, act, think. we are defined by our own perception (tainted or not), the perception of others, and the perception of God. we are made in the 'likeness' of an omniscient spiritual being who is Creator of all the universe. when we assume worthiness to know 'why this?' and 'why that?'--it's really a lack of understanding which, in turn, makes us less able to perceive the reasons in life for why things happen, begin, end, change, or stay the same.

when we focus on the 'ifs', we lose focus on what really 'is'. in that moment and in that second, we are constantly living ahead of or behind ourselves. when we look too far forward into our future, we are assuming we possess control--total control. the tension and the insecurity of the unknown or what is to come is in fact, good for us. it keeps us from becoming lazy. it keeps us from not needing anyone but ourselves. it keeps us from thinking we don't need God. or anyone else, for that matter. humans weren't made to be alone. we are created as relational beings--it's what drives us.

so your problem does not lie in tomorrow?--okay. choosing to live so far behind yourself that you forget your own reality is just as dangerous. how you act and what you know today may not be the same as yesterday or the day before. if you don't realize your growth as a person, and accept it and encourage it, you'll eventually lose touch of your own self and become a faint object of everyone's past.

you were given today.
breath in the morning, purpose for the day, and rest at night.
we don't hold tomorrow, and we will never be able to tell the future... but when it's given to us by the One with a divine plan, we are called to it and we are responsible to make every bit of it count.
everyday doesn't have to be remarkable, or historical, or overly busy. but it need be worth something to you...
and when you live a meaningful life,
it's an abundant one.




seek Truth.