Decisions, Decisions

Hmph. Well, Google informs me that I've used all of my storage space. So, I need to make a decision about my blog. And here are my current options:

A) Continue my current blog without anymore pictures.
B) Pay for more storage space
C) Start a new blog
D) Discontinue blogging entirely

I'll be praying and considering carefully my options... I do enjoy blogging. And, it gives me an outlet to write and think, but is it the best use of my time? "All things are lawful for me, but not all things are profitable." 1 Cor. 6:12a

If y'all have any advice or thoughts to share, feel free to comment! :O)

Learning to Be Joyful for His Name's Sake

"I have seen a limit to all perfection;
Your commandment is exceedingly broad."
Psalm 119:96

I’ve blogged about joy before but never like this...

It’s no secret that I’m a big fan of Sunday school… even in a time when it’s not popular in the broader Christian circles. Sunday school is a convicting, encouraging, and enlightening time for me. Learning from my elders or teaching my little ones is a blessed experience (who by-the-way, usually know the lesson before I teach it because of their covenant parents, but that's another blog post). Yesterday, the most prevalent element in the adult Sunday school was conviction.


The Larger Catechism’s explanation of the third commandment is beyond all my ideas about the Lord’s name…

Q. 113. What are the sins forbidden in the third commandment?
A. The sins forbidden in the third commandment are, the not using of God's name as is required; and the abuse of it in an ignorant, vain, irreverent, profane, superstitious, or wicked mentioning or otherwise using his titles, attributes, ordinances, or works, by blasphemy, perjury; all sinful cursings, oaths, vows, and lots; violating of our oaths and vows, if lawful; and fulfilling them, if of things unlawful; murmuring and quarreling at, curious prying into, and misapplying of God's decrees and providences; misinterpreting, misapplying, or any way perverting the word, or any part of it, to profane jests, curious or unprofitable questions, vain janglings, or the maintaining of false doctrines; abusing it, the creatures, or anything contained under the name of God, to charms, or sinful lusts and practices; the maligning, scorning, reviling, or any wise opposing of God's truth, grace, and ways; making profession of religion in hypocrisy, or for sinister ends; being ashamed of it, or a shame to it, by unconformable, unwise, unfruitful, and offensive walking, or backsliding from it.

Are you humbled yet? I was and am. The “murmuring and quarreling at” section spoke to my heart the most. Throughout my everyday existence, I am a great murmurer. (And yes, I know it’s not a word.) If there was a trophy for whining, I would win the championship. It’s nothing for which to be proud.

By whining, complaining, and wishing (for another time of life), I take the name of the Lord in vain. I profane the name by my sinful and wicked attitude. God’s sovereign providence is good, right, and holy. Who am I to question His plan? Who am I to criticize? With my attack, my disapproval, and my murmur, I place myself higher than God. I declare that I know the best "good" for my life. Therefore, I deny His word: “And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:28

It’s not only complaining about chores, work, and calling. What about people? Do I whine about my parents? My brother? My grandfather? My church? Yes. But, God has established these relationships. What do the scriptures say about God’s providence and complaints?

Elihu’s rebuke to Job rebukes me. "Why do you complain against Him That He does not give an account of all His doings?” Job 33:13

With this judgment, I speak Job’s words of weakness to God. "Behold, I am insignificant; what can I reply to You? I lay my hand on my mouth.” Job 40:4

Although life can be difficult, I should rejoice in what God has laid before me. Doing the laundry, the vacuuming, and the dishes… while studying, reading, and learning… in the relationships with family, friends, and co-workers. Will I keep this commandment perfectly? No. For as Paul says in Romans 7:15, “For what I am doing, I do not understand; for I am not practicing what I would like to do, but I am doing the very thing I hate.” But I will by the grace of God “[fight] the good fight of faith” knowing the Jesus Christ will be the one to set me free from the “body of this death.” Therefore, my brothers and sisters, "Consider it all joy." Soli Deo Gloria.

Camp: Why are we here?

Of course, the ultimate goal of camp is to glorify God. To this end, the theme of this year's camp was "Serving Others in a Self-Serve World."

With the youngest kids...

Mr. W guided them in...

memorizing scripture, singing songs, and playing games.

Jonathan taught some of the Missions lessons.


With the older kids...

Mr. I and his son talked about their mission trip to Haiti...

Mitch spoke about the chaplaincy and being a soldier


The kids had discussion groups...


And Mr. H delivered messages about needing Christ in our lives (and being able to serve God) before we have the ability to serve others...

The need to worship, honor our parents, and treat each other respectfully.

And I don't have any pictures of Bob's or Ken's sessions. :(
But, it was a wonderful week filled with the word preached. :)

My 2nd Sunday School Class

Aren't they sweet?

Runs faster, Jumps higher, and Plays volleyball better

Kevin Swanson's thoughts on Courtship with his guest, Doug Wilson.

How to Mess Up Your Daughter's Courtship

Convicting. Interesting. Funny. :)

Easter

This is a little late, but as Jonathan reminded us on Sunday... Every Sunday is a day to celebrate the resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ! So... Happy Easter, everyone!

It was a fabulous day. Breakfast with my church family, two encouraging, insightful sermons, and dinner with friends and family. We had the pleasure of hosting Bobby and Fisher. After dessert, we played Apples to Apples.

Praise God for His grace and kindness!

Late Monday

Today seemed to be one of those days. Maybe you know the ones?
You're perpetually late?
Sound familiar?
Anyone?

Well, despite that strange, late phenomenon, today was a blessed day. I asked a good question in Italian class, had lunch with Dee -- which turned into a several hour visit. Praise God for a friend with whom to pray and share burdens -- went to Open Lab, had dinner with family, and studied the Word. Yes, a blessed day indeed.

Small Visions

Being a single person comes with so many blessings; it also comes with many trials. Many of us desire to be married, and this desire comes from God. As we ponder our future spouses, certain characters traits, personalities, and convictions cross our minds. Out comes THE LIST. I hope each of you has one. You know the one, right? Well, if you don’t, let me put the idea out there. The List contains 3 subject headers…

1) What he must be – No compromises/Non-negotiable Example: A strong, mature Christian

2) Important - Things that you could technically comprise on belong here… but you would really rather not comprise. Example: Communicational skills, family traditions, where will we live, etc. and

3) Preferences – recognize that you may get NONE of these. :P Example: Taller than I am :)

Looking over my list, I realize that I don’t pray for my future husband (MFH) nearly as often as I should. I hope God will bless me with a man that fulfills all of my “musts” and most of my “importants.” By God’s grace, I seek to fulfill MFH’s list. Items such as “submissive”, “homemaker”, “godly”, “good cook” ;), and “fond of children” all come to mind for his list. As I seek to imitate Christ, my life should grow in grace. And by God’s sovereign Providence, my life should reflect want MFH will want.

As I read over my list, visionary is under “Must be” or “Non-negotiable.” He must have a goal or a plan for what he wants our lives to look like… A desire to pass on his values, goals, and plans down through generations. A man like that is what I want. Okay, so now you’re thinking: “Wow. Doesn’t she know men like that are once in a generation?” I disagree. Men who have a vision can be found. MFH’s vision may not be vast. He may not be a president to millions, a senator for thousands, or a preacher for hundreds. He may not travel to the moon, build great rocket-ships, or discover a cure for cancer. He may not be another Albert Einstein, Edmund Burke, or Robert E. Lee. He may have a small vision. And that’s okay.

"His master said to him, 'Well done, good and faithful slave. You were faithful with a few things, I will put you in charge of many things; enter into the joy of your master.'” Matthew 25:23

God gives different talents to different people. Some are gifted with 2 talents, some are gifted with 5 talents, and others are gifted with 1. If MFH has a plan to use his 1 talent to the fullest of his ability to God’s glory, then Praise God from Whom all blessings flow! I should not be greedy or sad because I cannot help a man who is gifted with 5 talents. God has given me the honor and helping a man with 1, and I should rejoice! My father once told me that women have a great power over men. They can build them up or cut them down. He told me that a wife can make an average man become a good one, and she can make a good man into a great man. Not all men will be a William Wilberforce, George Washington, or Prince Albert. Some men are meant to be Indians, and others are meant to be chiefs. If he is my chief, then I’ll help him be whatever God wants him to be. Even if he’s just meant to be the Indian.

The heart of her husband trusts in her,

And he will have no lack of gain.

She does him good and not evil

All the days of her life.

Proverbs 31:11,12

Christmas Eve Service

And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; because he was of the house and lineage of David.

To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child. And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.

And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.

Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. ~Taken from Luke 2

An Important Message

Several weeks ago, Pastor Comin came to fill our pulpit. With him, he brought the word of God. The message was convicting.

Take a few minutes out of your day.... Listen to the sermon below.

Repent or Perish

What does that mean?

“Therefore, laying aside falsehood, speak truth each {of you} with his neighbor, for we are members of one another.” Ephesians 4:25



Embarrassment. Frustration. Anxiety.

Heart pounding. Think… Think… Think… What should I say?

Believe it or not, all the previous thoughts and feelings occurred the first time I was ever asked out on a date. The story goes like this:

I was working at school and one of my guy friends followed me to the back of the classroom. Let’s call him Alex. He then asked… “Would you like to get lunch with me sometime?” Cue the confusion. What was Alex trying to say? Lunch? Is that a date? Or a friend thing? What are the implications? My mind raced a mile a moment…

And my remarkable comeback? “What does that mean?” And yes, I actually said that. Most of you will laugh at my reply. It is obvious now that Alex wanted me to go on a date with him… But in the moment, it was less than obvious. I wanted him to spell out his intentions. He replied to my brilliant comeback, “You know… we would go to the Mountainlair and get lunch.”

This is my problem. Men and Women need to be direct with one another to avoid confusion and hurt feelings. But Alex wasn’t the only guilty one. In my weakness, I gave several lame excuses: my schedule, schoolwork, etc. I didn’t give him the dignity of a direct response.

Either of us could be considered guilty of toying with the other. I was unprepared to respond appropriately; Alex couldn't know if I was interested at a later time. Alex was unprepared to lead in the situation; I couldn't know his exact intentions. Is honesty so hard to come by?

“But you did not learn Christ in this way, if indeed you have heard Him and have been taught in Him, just as truth is in Jesus, that, in reference to your former manner of life, you lay aside the old self, which is being corrupted in accordance with the lusts of deceit, and that you be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and put on the new self, which in {the likeness of} God has been created in righteousness and holiness of the truth. Therefore, laying aside falsehood, speak truth each {of you} with his neighbor, for we are members of one another.” Ephesians 4:20-25

My challenge to myself and the rest of you (my four dear readers ;) is to speak the truth! No matter how painful… Face rejection. Face humiliation. Face pain. Face sorrow.

To all the Alex(s) of the world: Be clear. Girls aren’t mind readers; no matter how much we think we are.

To all the me(s) of the world: If you’re not interested, say so. Let him move on.

Speak the truth in love.

Weekly Economic Principle

For you yourselves know how you ought to imitate us, because we were not idle when we were with you, nor did we eat anyone's bread without paying for it, but with toil and labor we worked night and day, that we might not be a burden to any of you. It was not because we do not have that right, but to give you in ourselves an example to imitate.

For even when we were with you, we would give you this command: If anyone is not willing to work, let him not eat. For we hear that some among you walk in idleness, not busy at work, but busybodies. Now such persons we command and encourage in the Lord Jesus Christ to do their work quietly and to earn their own living.

2 Thessalonians 3:7-12

Camp Runamucka

Just kidding!


I have shamelessly neglected this blog of late. Part of the problem was being gone at church camp for a whole week. As soon as I get the "official photos, I'll be sure to share more. :)

It is my goal to start updating y'all on what has been going on around here ASAP.

John Calvin's 500 years

Ever since I can remember, I have been named by Christ. I am a christian. Among the many branches of the Christian church, I have grown up in the OPC. I have learned from the time I was a child the doctrines that John Calvin put forth. And I identify myself as a Calvinist.

Happy Birthday, John Calvin. God continues to use your legacy and vision to bless many lives.


"All these things will be easily understood after we have given a clearer definition of faith, so as to enable the readers to apprehend its nature and power. Here it is of importance to call to mind what was formerly taught, first, That since God by his Law prescribes what we ought to do, failure in any one respect subjects us to the dreadful judgment of eternal death, which it denounces. Secondly, Because it is not only difficult, but altogether beyond our strength and ability, to fulfill the demands of the Law, if we look only to ourselves and consider what is due to our merits, no ground of hope remains, but we lie forsaken of God under eternal death.

Thirdly, That there is only one method of deliverance which can rescue us from this miserable calamity—viz. when Christ the Redeemer appears, by whose hand our heavenly Father, out of his infinite goodness and mercy, has been pleased to succor us, if we with true faith embrace this mercy, and with firm hope rest in it. It is now proper to consider the nature of this faith, by means of which, those who are adopted into the family of God obtain possession of the heavenly kingdom. For the accomplishment of so great an end, it is obvious that no mere opinion or persuasion is adequate. And the greater care and diligence is necessary in discussing the true nature of faith, from the pernicious delusions which many, in the present day, labour under with regard to it...


Although we have already in some measure shown how faith possesses Christ, and gives us the enjoyment of his benefits, the subject would still be obscure were we not to add an exposition of the effects resulting from it. The sum of the Gospel is, not without good reason, made to consist in repentance and forgiveness of sins; and, therefore, where these two heads are omitted, any discussion concerning faith will be meager and defective, and indeed almost useless. Now, since Christ confers upon us, and we obtain by faith, both free reconciliation and newness of life, reason and order require that I should here begin to treat of both. The shortest transition, however, will be from faith to repentance; for repentance being properly understood it will better appear how a man is justified freely by faith alone, and yet that holiness of life, real holiness, as it is called, is inseparable from the free imputation of righteousness.

That repentance not only always follows faith, but is produced by it, ought to be without controversy (see Calvin in Joann. 1:13). For since pardon and forgiveness are offered by the preaching of the Gospel, in order that the sinner, delivered from the tyranny of Satan, the yoke of sin, and the miserable bondage of iniquity, may pass into the kingdom of God, it is certain that no man can embrace the grace of the Gospel without retaking himself from the errors of his former life into the right path, and making it his whole study to practice repentance. Those who think that repentance precedes faith instead of flowing from, or being produced by it, as the fruit by the tree, have never understood its nature, and are moved to adopt that view on very insufficient grounds."

- John Calvin in Institutes of the Christian Religion

July 4th Weekend

Lord, with glowing heart I'd praise thee
For the bliss thy love bestows,
For the pard'ning grace that saves me,
And the peace that from it flows;
Help, O God, my weak endeavor;
This dull soul to rapture raise;
Thou must light the flame, or never
Can my love be warmed to praise.

Praise, my soul, the God that sought thee,
Wretched wand'rer far astray;
Found thee lost, and kindly brought thee
From the paths of death away;
Praise, with love's devoutest feeling,
Him who saw thy guilt-born fear,
And, the light of hope revealing,
Bade the blood-stained cross appear.

Praise thy Saviour God that drew thee
To that cross, new life to give,
Held a blood-sealed pardon to thee,
Bade thee look to him and live;
Praise the grace whose threats alarmed thee,
Roused thee from thy fatal ease,
Praise the grace whose promise warmed thee,
Praise the grace that whispered peace.

Lord, this bosom's ardent feeling
Vainly would my lips express;
Low before thy footstool kneeling,
Deign thy suppliant's prayer to bless:
Let thy love, my soul's chief treasure,
Love's pure flame within me raise,
And, since words can never measure,
Let my life show forth thy praise.
- Francis Scott Key, 1817

How wonderful to sing a hymn written by a man who wrote our national anthem... on July 4th weekend! F.S. Key certainly had a proper patriotism, but even more glorious, he loved the Lord. Praise God for a godly history!

VBS 2009

The Powell Family hosted VBS again this year. What a blessing to be able to serve our church in this capacity. =)

The theme of Bible School

Craft Barn (Er... Garage?)

Classes Outside...

When the weather was nice

Crafts with Melissa and Andrea

Recreation with Jamie

Singing for Opening Exercises

A full week of cleaning, preparing, and hosting makes for some very tired Powell's. But, by God's grace, we made it through another year.

My First Sunday School Class

He said to the sons of Israel, "When your children ask their fathers in time to come, saying, 'What are these stones?' Then you shall inform your children, saying, 'Israel crossed this Jordan on dry ground.' Joshua 4:21,22

Just as in the Bible, believers today are to raise the children in the covenant and educate them in the ways of the Lord. What a blessing for me to have an opportunity to shape young hearts and minds before I have children of my own! My prayer is that I will be clear and help my young 3-5 memorize and understand God's word.

Pitfalls of the Feminist Ideology -- Part 3

Part 3
Seeing the pitfalls of feminism requires one to spend a fair amount of time assessing the situation of women prior to the first feminist wave as well as their current standpoint. Many women do not seem to take this time and quickly align themselves with the feminists on the basis of a woman’s right to recognition as an equal citizen and equal pay for women in the workplace.

In so doing, they fail to see how the feminist view affects the aspects of life previously discussed. The feminist movement could be reformed if more women educated themselves on these subjects. Women have a duty to themselves and to their daughters to truly evaluate the consequences of feminist action, on their livelihood as well as that of men. If more women considered how their actions affected the men in their lives, they could help them develop a fitting view of women, establishing themselves as equals, but maintaining their femininity. It is easy to be caught up in sweeping rhetoric that speaks of women’s empowerment.

However, women and all Americans must remain alert, for we are entering an age of complacency. We often do what is easy or expected of us to avoid actually evaluating situations for ourselves. It is a slippery slope that if we are not cautious will continue to open us up to manipulation through other ideologies. There is hope for a generation of young women and men who, realizing the ideas behind feminism could turn the nation toward a reformed perspective. [One] appreciated for the characteristics which distinguish them from men.

- Danielle Martinez

This is the last and final part. Thanks Dee for all your hard work. :)