Friendships :)

I've always heard girls saying they prefer males to be their friends as compared to females.And their reasons seemed valid:girls can be moody and competitive,I used to be!But since changing growing up has taught me that  females can have proper friendships that are fulfilling without ANY complications.

I believe the reason most friendships turn out sour is because they  do not have any principles and in most cases there are no shared values between the individuals.We often fight with each other because we do not practise love at all times and we often fail to practise the golden rule:doing to others as we would like them to do towards us.We lose on valuable friendships because we are NOT willing to let self aside and we sometimes do not think before saying things.How many friendships would have been saved,if only we had refrained from saying a hurtful thing?

It is only when we allow God's spirit to reign in our hearts that we can have fulfilling,uplifting relationships where there are no arguments involved.I've been friends with dear sisters for 5 years and I believe it is through prayer and considering their feelings that our friendship has managed to last this long.

I've met one particular lady which has demonstrated that friendship is a gift from God.She has been kind,encouraging me when I felt weak and her presence in my life has led me to seek Jesus more.She's taught me so much;from how to be a godly woman,how to be modest and above all she's taught me to trust in the Lord.

This is what friendship should be about!  I believe relationships between females should not be that complicated.We don't need to be 'friends' and start sharing personal info with each other but we can all afford to be kind and provide support.That's what Christianity is about:you DON'T love,care,show kindness because someone is your friend BUT because they belong to God and they are human.


And I personally believe females and males cannot be friends-in the truest sense of the word,because one between the two parties is likely to interpret the relationship otherwise!Not that we should not interact with males BUT we should guard our hearts so that we do not send mixed messages.Many ladies have been hurt because they mistook a guy's kindness for something else.

For example:I cannot treat males the same way I treat my females friends/sisters.I cannot visit a brother for no apparent reason and alone.

As ladies professing godliness we should always note that our behaviour has an influence for good or bad and it is sinful to do anything that causes another person to fall.If we love our brothers,we will not put them in situations where they are likely to be tempted or commit sin.

I believe that if we girls can put our differences aside and be there for each other:then there will be a decrease in the number of depressed individuals or those who commit suicide or fall into sin.If we were sincerely our sister's keepers,I believe many would be able to overcome certain sins because we would encourage and share our experiences with each other.

If we cannot live happily and in harmony with other  here on earth,how can we in heaven?We often dislike each other because we compare ourselves to one another but no one is better than the other. I've learnt that we all have our faults and we are all struggling. We all are facing one enemy;the devil.We ALL have issues to deal with,so no use hating!Instead,we should stand together so that we all go to heaven.

#Learning and Unlearning

Godliness in our everyday relations,part 2

These are some of the rules that may help us to maintain pure relations between males and females:

REFRAIN FROM FLATTERY:

"I am pained when I see men praised, flattered, and petted. God has revealed to me the fact that some who receive these attentions are unworthy to take His name upon their lips; yet they are exalted to heaven in the estimation of finite beings, who read only from outward appearance. My sisters, never pet and flatter poor, fallible, erring men, either young or old, married or unmarried. You know not their weaknesses, and you know not but that these very attentions and this profuse praise may prove their ruin. I am alarmed at the shortsightedness, the want of wisdom, that many manifest in this respect.Men who are doing God’s work, and who have Christ abiding in their hearts, will not lower the standard of morality, but will ever seek to elevate it. They will not find pleasure in the flattery of women or in being petted by them.

REFRAIN FROM TOUCHING:

" Let men, both single and married, say: “Hands off! I will never give the least occasion that my good should be evil spoken of. My good name is capital of far more value to me than gold or silver. Let me preserve it untarnished. If men assail that name, it shall not be because I have given them occasion to do so, but for the same reason that they spoke evil of Christ—because they hated the purity and holiness of His character, for it was a constant rebuke to them.”

MARRIED MEN,TO GIVE PROPER ATTENTION THEIR WIVES:

"To married men I am instructed to say, It is to your wives, the mothers of your children, that your respect and affection are due. Your attentions are to be given to them, and your thoughts are to dwell upon plans for their happiness.

I have been shown families where the husband and father has not preserved that reserve, that dignified, godlike manhood which is befitting a follower of Christ. He has failed to perform the kind, tender, courteous acts due to his wife, whom he has promised before God and angels to love, respect, and honor while they both shall live. The girl employed to do the work has been free and somewhat forward to dress his hair and to be affectionately attentive, and he is pleased, foolishly pleased. In his love and attention to his wife he is not as demonstrative as he once was. Be sure that Satan is at work here. Respect your hired help, treat them kindly, considerately, but go no farther. Let your deportment be such that there will be no advances to familiarity from them."

MAINTAIN FAMILY PRIVACY:

"Oh, how many lives are made bitter by the breaking down of the walls which inclose the privacies of every family, and which are calculated to preserve its purity and sanctity! A third person is taken into the confidence of the wife, and her private

family matters are laid open before the special friend. This is the device of Satan to estrange the hearts of the husband and wife. Oh, that this would cease! What a world of trouble would be saved! Lock within your own hearts the knowledge of each other’s faults. Tell your troubles alone to God. He can give you right counsel and sure consolation which will be pure, having no bitterness in it.

When a woman relates her family troubles or complains of her husband to another man, she violates her marriage vows; she dishonors her husband and breaks down the wall erected to preserve the sanctity of the marriage relation; she throws wide open the door and invites Satan to enter with his insidious temptations. This is just as Satan would have it.

SISTERS NOT TO CONFIDE TO THOSE OF THE OPPOSITE SEX,WHO ARE NOT THE THEIR FUTURE SPOUSES and vice versa:

"If a woman comes to a Christian brother with a tale of her woes, her disappointments and trials, he should ever advise her, if she must confide her troubles to someone, to select sisters for her confidants, and then there will be no appearance of evil whereby the cause of God may suffer reproach"

{Adventist Home,chapter 55}

Heart Issues

My conclusion with regards to relationships is:

It is better to wait till you know exactly what you want BEFORE entering into a relationship.It saves you a lot of time and helps you not to triffle with one's heart

 Take time to know God,to serve him,to know yourself,to figure out what you want,to achieve your goals so that by the time you get into a relationship you know what you want and you don't have to go 'searching' for what you want. I believe as Adam spent some time with God before meeting Eve,it is crucial to know God ourselves before meeting our spouses.

It is also important to examine our motives behind seeking marriage.We shouldn't marry because we want to be made 'complete' or because we are scared to be lonely.The purpose of getting into a relationship shouldn't be to fulfill our desires,but we should consider whether a relationship is God's will for us and whether the relationship will be good for us spiritually and whether it would allow us to fulfill our calling.

"Before accepting a proposal from a man wearing trousers,you should accept the proposal of a man in a robe (Jesus)",said a dear sister.

Godliness in our everyday relations,Part 1

Godliness in our everyday relations, Part 1

A dear sister and I were talking about true modesty and I must say it's quite a journey. We really need the Holy Spirit and we need to be subjected to the will of God.

One thing that really concerns me is familiarity between the opposite sextant familiarity between the singles and those that are married.

We are to relate to each other as brothers and sisters, in holiness. The word of God encourages males to treat the sisters in purity. As sisters, we are encouraged to be meek, modest and to carry ourselves with shamefacedness. Furthermore, the word of God does not encourage jesting and joking, so it's crucial to be mindful of how we conduct ourselves because there are angels recording all that we do and God is watching.

But I'll deal with females here as I know some of the challenges they meet. One thing I have learnt is, we shouldn't allow males to be comfortable with us such that they feel free to touch us, or to make impure suggestions.

I have also learnt that when we interact with married men/those that are in relations, we are to be mindful of their spouses/significant others. For example: we are not to encourage married to share their marital problems with us nor should we have secret interactions with them whereby the wives are not aware or not present. We are to keep a distance.

As a personal rule, I don't call males-unless it’s for God’s glory/academic related; so that I minimize my interaction with them nor do I chat late at night with them. I also believe we are to be mindful of how we behave towards other people's boyfriends. For example, why call someone's boyfriend just to check on him?An sms /whatsapp/email is better.I personally believe ladies should on check on other ladies and vice versa. Not that we should be cold towards each other but we are to be modest about it, so that we do not allow the devil to take charge. Also, we should not linger around males to get their attention.

 I've also learnt that males and females cannot be friends, in the truest sense of the word-as this allows for them to be emotionally attached and in turn a relationship may take place, where it shouldn't have. Closeness between a male and female should occur after both parties are in a relationship.

All in all: our interaction with one another should not encourage evil; we need to uplift one another without being stumbling blocks or giving off wrong signals.

You are NOT your OWN,you BELONG to God

The Department of education has confirmed: In 2014 twenty thousand(20 000) girls in primary and high  school fell pregnant and this is really heart breaking.

With that said,I believe to solve the problem we have to start from the root.We are to understand that we DO NOT belong to ourselves and we are not our own.God created us for his own glory and he has a say with regards to everything including our bodies.God is not only concerned with the heart but with everything that we do,because He seeks our own good.

And he has set commandments to ensure our happiness comes first.One says,"do not steal" and the other is, "refrain from fornication".When you engage in fornication,you are stealing what is not yours because you do not have the right .It is marriage that gives the right to engage in this.So,we dishonor God when we engage in such activities when unmarried.

God knew that marriage provides security for children. Even though children who grow up from single headed homes are no different to those coming from homes with both parents,they are still affected.For example: each parent plays a role in the development of the child.Personally, having come from a single parent headed home,marriage is not something I really yearn for because I fear it's not for me but God can change such.

There are other factors that contribute to increased sexual behavior amongst young people.The music,movies,ads are sexually infested to the extent that it is rare to find any programme on TV that upholds sexual purity.So,we need to guard what we see,hear,say and think.

The food we eat also has a role:most foods-mostly dairy products and meat have growth hormones,which increases the rate of sexual development in the young children.So,its better to refrain from such foods.Parents have a big role to play.They need to talk to their children about these issues;to teach their children to fear God from a young age.As young women and men we need to be role models to our younger sisters and brothers.The church also has a role to play.Back at home,we decided as young ladies to mentor the young girls,letting them know what God expects from them,find out what challenges they face,offer advice etc.

For some:they fall pregnant because they are sexually abused and sadly they do not speak due to fear.

But I believe young girls need to have dreams and they should not allow anything to come between them and their dreams.Self-respect goes along way too:you will not allow yourself to be a field where everyone practises on.You deserve better!

Education

Looking at the level of education in South Africa,can we honestly say that it is equipping us to become independent individuals who can be self-employed?

In the olden days,education included sewing,knitting,gardening and cooking;  all these skills are able to put food in the table.

The question is:what happens when those who went to University cannot be employed?Isn't their education waste?

I believe education should equip us to be self-employed,because had those who are retrenched been able to do certain things they will not need anyone to employ them.

I look at how depended we are on shops for food and clothing and I realize it is going to be hard NOT to yield to the beast and its image,so that we can buy/sell.

I think it's crucial to choose courses that will allow us to be independent and to serve others,without the need of being under a governing body.As students,we should look at ways we can utilize our education to generate jobs for others.

The error of this age

In Christ's time:

 The Pharisees knew the Scripture from beginning to end;but their knowledge of Scripture did not make them better people.Instead,they thought knowing made them better.But had they practised all they knew out of love,they would have been regarded as good examples.Instead,they used the Scripture to oppress and in the end we are admonished that "your righteousness should surpass that of the Pharisees".In fact,they even used the Scripture trying to trick Jesus so that they could kill him.

In this age:

Christianity is one of the controversial religions mainly because we are never in agreement YET we have one Bible and one God and the question is,what is the matter?Well,we do not study the Bible for ourselves.We are happy to let others search the Scriptures for us.We are happy to to google things that we don't understand.But God promised that He will send us the Holy Spirit,which will 'teach us and guide us into all truth'.In fact,God promised,"if you diligently seek me,you shall find me" and His Word provides knowledge about God.

In fact,it is the DUTY of every Christian to search the Scriptures for himself some that he may be able to know what God's will is and so that we may may be able to answer those who have a desire to know why we do  certain things.

  ^"Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."-2 Timothy 2:15

1 Peter 3:15New International Version (NIV)

¹⁵ But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect,

We can only give an answer when we diligently study the word of God.

We also study the Word of God so that we can share the gospel and so that we may be able to discern between good and evil.  

Living in  these last days,we face the risk of following that which God has not commanded because there are many false prophets as Christ warned there would be in the last days.Furthermore,we often forget that as Christians we are followers of Christ.So,all that we do,Christ must have done.

ALSO:we are to be careful not to add or subract from the word of God.

For example:nowhere in the Bible are we commanded to celebrate easter and nowhere are we told to celebrate Christmas,so why do it?There only 2 things/memorials we have been commanded to remember or to celebrate or practise and that is;The Sabbath and Holy Communion.

 

  

 

What's on my mind lately

I had to read an article on chronic poverty that was published in 2003 and it was heart-breaking.

In 2003:

2,7 million households were headed by females only and the males only offered financial support once in a while
2,7 million households were headed by the elderly,in most cases,the grandmother
About 800 000 farmers were retrenched
 There are about 500 000 orphans due to AIDS

And all these individuals are affected by chronic poverty!

Now my question is;what are we,as Christians and those who are pursuing an education doing about these conditions?

In fact,do we even feel the burden of those who are suffering or we are pleased with being well-off while others die in hunger.
I believe we should choose to be educated NOT because we want to be respected,but because we want to help those in need.

True beauty,Part 1

I live in a world where we are constantly bombarded about beauty.There are always new beauty products that are constantly invented to "beautify" us.Media is always using the term and advising us on how to be beautiful.

But what is beauty and is beauty what we should pursue?Let me first define beauty accordingly.I believe beauty is skin deep and it has little to do with our physical attributes. Some may disagree and say beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

We sometimes spend so much time trying to beautify the physical(outside) while we neglect the inside and that shouldn't be the case. When we consult the author of beauty-God,defines it differently.

The Bible encourages inward beauty-which is characterized by meekness,love,kindness etc.So we can conclude that our characters should be beautiful, because it is what matters the most. What is the use of having a beautiful face when the heart is full of hate,rudeness,perversion?I believe beauty must start inside then outward.

What I'm trying to say is:we need to spend more time improving our characters so that the world may become a better place.Nowadays,we find young girls engrossed about beauty but they lack moral worth and self respect.We need a change.

Our sisters need to know:"beauty"-physical attribute, isn't everything and it's not a priority.What matters is what is inside the heart.You can be the most gorgeous lady yet people may hate your PRESENCE because you are rude and self-centered. It is better to be valued because of who you are than what you look like.Beauty fades but a character is of great worth.

God says we should pursue beautiful,pure characters.When I look back at how obsessed I was about beauty I'm ashamed because it didn't avail to nothing.In my language they have this expression:"you must suffer for beauty" and for a while I did::relaxing my hair and wearing high heels;but as I have progressed in my Christian journey,I've realised,true beauty requires no physical pain.

"The beauty of a woman is not in a facial mode but the true beauty in a woman is reflected in her soul. It is the caring that she lovingly gives the passion that she shows. The beauty of a woman grows with the passing years."~Audrey Hepburn

Beauty goes with simplicity!

^"3 Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes. ⁴ Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight."~1 Peter 3:3-4

 

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

TRUE CHRISTIANITY=GODLY CHARACTER

"It is the character, not the placing of our names on the church books, that makes us Christians. What manifestations will appear when Christ, abiding in the heart, is shining in the faces of those who love Him and keep His commandments. Truth is written there. The man is transformed into Christ’s image. A worldling may pass by and not mark the change, but those who have had communion with Christ discern the expression of Christ in word, in spirit. The influence upon the heart is seen in a habitual gentleness, a more than human love. The sweet peace of heaven will be in the soul, and will be revealed in the countenances."—Letter 6, January 14, 1899, to “Brethren and Sisters in Camp Meeting at Ballarat.~The Upward Look,p28

Newton's first law of motion

Newton's first law of motion states:

An object will continue in a state of rest or uniform motion in a straight line unless an external force acts on it.

This tells me, nothing happens by chance in life.There is always a reason even if we do not know it.We are all involved in a great controversy between good and evil, between God and the devil.Whatever occurs can be traced back to God or Satan.But God out of His love gives us the choice to counteract the force, the freedom of choice.

It is not by chance that we are alive,nor is it luck or determined by the universe.It is because God created each one of us and it because of His goodness that we are alive.It is also not by chance that we exist in a sinful world.God did not create us to suffer torment and pain but it can all be traced to the devil-the cause of all pain and the originator of sin.It was God's desire for mankind to live eternally and in constant communion with him.Hence He said,"be fruitful and multiply."

But there was a condition and mankind was given the choice to choose to obey or disobey,but sadly through the influence of the devil men disobeyed and the state of the world is the result of disobedience.But God did not leave men to die eternally but he offered a part of the Godhead to die for us,so that we can be restored to God's original ideal for mankind-to live eternally in submission to God's will.Thus,the fate of mankind is not a lost cause.Eternal life is freely given to those who accept the conditions.

And so :life is not by chance and we are not on earth to reproduce,eat,work and die off to never live again.God has prepared a better life for each one of us but itis through accepting this gift and living by God's law that we can be fitted for this life.God has given this life so that we may prepare for the life he has prepared for us.We are on this earth for a higher purpose:to break the chains of evil,to live as Christ lived and share this plan God has to others who look at life at a bleak view.

There is a PURPOSE for your existence.

Sin:Cause of our woes

Our High Calling : Page 81

76. The Cause of All Our Woes

But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin . Heb. 3:13.

Mark the words "deceitfulness of sin." Satan always presents his temptations under the guise of goodness. Beware that you yield not to them. One violation of straightforward truthfulness prepares the way for the second violation, and wrongs are repeated, until the heart of unbelief becomes hardened, and the conscience loses its sensitiveness.

Let none flatter themselves that the sins of their youth can easily be given up by and by. This is not so. Every sin cherished weakens the character and strengthens the habit; and physical, mental, and moral depravity result. You may repent of the wrong you have done, and set your feet in right paths; but the mold of your mind and your familiarity with evil will make it difficult for you to distinguish between right and wrong. Through the wrong habits you have formed Satan will assail you again and again.

Many . . . look upon sin as a little thing. . . . Many take counsel of their own wishes and desires and follow their inclinations and finally conclude that sin is not so very offensive, not so terrible and dreadful in the sight of God. Sin that may appear little, that may be termed little by the blunted conscience, is so grievous a thing in the sight of God that nothing but the blood of God's own Son could wash it away. This fact places the true estimate upon sin. God will never tarnish His glory to come to our ideas and views. We shall certainly have to come to His. Just in proportion to the excellence of God is the heinous character of sin. . . .

God seeks our real happiness. If anything lies in the way of this, He sees it must first be removed. He will thwart our purposes and disappoint our expectations and bring us through disappointments and trials to reveal to us ourselves as we are. . . . Sin is the cause of all our woes. If we would have true peace and happiness of mind, sin must be removed.

Youth to Stand Up for Christ

Our High Calling : Page 279

272. Youth to Stand Up for Christ

For whosoever shall be ashamed of me and of my words, of him shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he shall come in his own glory, and in his Father's, and of the holy angels . Luke 9:26.

Always stand up for Christ. In word, in spirit, in action, be His witness. He loves you, and He wants to impart to you His rich grace, that you may impart this to others. . . . Christ has purchased you with His own blood. Then, everywhere, at all times and under all circumstances, stand up for Jesus. Remember that thus you will exert the very best influence upon all with whom you associate. . . .

It is your privilege ever to grow in grace, advancing in the knowledge and love of God, if you maintain the sweet communion with Christ it is your privilege to enjoy. In the simplicity of humble faith ask the Lord to open your understanding, that you may discern and appreciate the precious things of His Word. Thus you may grow in grace, grow in simple, trusting faith. Then your light will shine forth to all with whom you associate. Keep your mind fixed upon the Saviour. . . .

Be sure that your spiritual life does not become poor, sickly, inefficient. There are many who have need of the words and example of a Christian. Weakness and indecision provoke and assaults of the enemy, and any one who fails to increase in spiritual growth, in a knowledge of truth and righteousness, will frequently be overcome by the enemy.

Let your countenance reflect the joy of the Lord. Speak of His goodness and tell His power. Then your light will shine more and more distinctly. Above your trials and disappointments will be revealed the reflection of a pure, healthy religious life.

There is no limit to the influence of the human agent who wears the yoke with Christ. Daily he studies the life of Christ and conforms his life to the divine pattern.... It is by the manifestation of the spirit of Christ in our words and actions that the world takes knowledge of us that we have been with Jesus, that we are the children of God. The true nature of our religion is ... in the gentle spirit, the kindness, the peace which we manifest.

Just

Because everyone is doing it ,doesn't mean it is right
Because everyone is wearing it, doesn't  mean you should be wearing it
Because everyone thinks it's right, doesn't mean it's right
Because everyone eats/drinks it, doesn't mean you should
Because everyone is watching it/reading it, doesn't mean you should

The Bible is the standard of what is right/wrong,NOT the legislation.

There is a time for everything

The world I live in is becoming scary day by day.A few days ago I was listening to a radio show where they were discussing decriminalizing sexual intercourse between those between the ages of 12 to 16.The member of this law went on to say they are not "legalizing" sexual intercourse. In my opinion they are.Unfortunately, the interview could not go on due to bad communication.

I must say that this breaks my heart.Where are the parents in all of this and how did it get here?Are you telling me that those who make the rules do not consider what benefits a child?

But all I know is,teenagehood should NOT be about making decisions about dating or engaging in risky behaviour such as sexual intercourse, experimenting with drugs or parenthood.Instead,it should be a time for development intellectually,morally and socially. It should be a time where teenagers
 develop skills which will equip them to be less dependent on their parents and on the government.

I look back at my teenage years and I still don't have an adequate reason as to why I dated and what I gained.I can only discourage those in school who are considering this path as it is just a hindrance.I remember how my junior secondary school principal always said:there will always be boys and there will always be girls-they will never run out,so you re not missing out on anything.

Had many waited for the right time:they would not be sick,drop-outs or living lives they regret.What people/media fails to tell is:there are always consequences when you rush.Some have lost their self-worth all because they rushed.

Good things come to those who wait!

Financial Management

I thank God for the counsel found in His word (the Bible) and Spirit of Prophecy.I read Adventist Home and it gave useful information on how to manage funds.

My experience:

I have made a few bad financial decisions this year and in turn I was upset and I had to overspend.This taught that,before spending money we should buy what is a need and will last longer.It is also crucial to budget every cent and save the rest.

To have good financial management you must start now.

What I read:

Money is a trust from God because "the earth is the Lord's and everything in it"(Psalm 24:1).Furthermore, we are to pursue a debt free life and we are to save.We should save so that when trouble arises, we don't suffer.

We should not use money selfishly but we should use it in God's cause-you may support missions,buy food and clothes for the less privileged.Even as students we can by saving.

It is important to keep an account book-book where you write all your needs,their costs,budget.This will allow you to improve your financial skills.

I will share the statements on other posts so we can learn together.

MISTAKES

The thing about making mistakes is:you can never run away from the consequences. While some consequences are shortlived ,some will follow you around for ever.And when you look back ,you wish you could have made a different decision.

It is crucial to think every decision through,irregardless of how small/big it seems,how we feel and the situations we find ourselves in. I have come to realize that most bad decisions are made when we depend sorely on emotions as opposed to reasoning.For example,a student will not study because he "doesn't feel like it" and the student is likely to fail.

The point I am trying to bring across is,before taking a decision avoid thinking about the pleasure you will receive and think about the consequences.How many of us would have chosen differently,had we taken the time to think things through.Sometimes,we make decisions hastily when we should take time to think them through.Thus,time is a crucial factor in decision making.

We also need to understand that when we make decisions we always have a choice to choose and to choose right.One lecturer said "we can't choose who we fall inlove with ", but the fact that you have the choice to either accept/refuse a relationship proposal means we have a choice.

It is also crucial for us to reflect on decisions we make daily so that we can see our mistakes and work on ways to not repeat them.It is not wise to repeatedly make a bad decision just because there are no consequences-you always reap what you sow.

The choices we make often affect those that we love.For example,if a student who is studying at a private school fails a grade due to lack of commitment he will cost his parents more money than they had budgetted and in turn the plans they had will be messed up.

It is always wise to ask God for guidance because He is the best advisor. God is wise,holy(without sin) and he wants the best for us.God knows the end from the beginning so when we seek advice from him the decisions we make will ensure a better future.

The fact that God is sinless means the decisions we make will not only benefit us but will in turn please our Creator.

Parenthood

Yesterday I was listening to a radio show on S.A f.m(very good radio station- informative) on fatherhood and I have concluded:

Children need both parents.God wasn't mistaken when he wedded Adam and Eve and then told them to be fruitful.But sadly in this sin-filled world with divorce and broken homes this is not always the case.

Even in situations where parents are no longer together it is crucial for parents to be there for the child.The child is not to blame and parents should have an amicable relationship for their sakes and of the child.

Mothers:even if he hurt you,you do not have to punish the child by not allowing him to have a relationship with his child. The sad thing is,you are not the one that will be affected, but the child will be and often this causes resentment in the child.

Once you have a child,your needs are no longer  a priority-the needs of the child are.It would be nice if we could get to a place where parenthood is taken seriously. Can you imagine how it must feel to be that child who sees other children with both parents and wonders what it feels like to have both parents? Parents owe it to their child(ren) .

There will be less social issues like crime and teenage pregnancy if parents had the genuine interest in their children and loved them genuinely.Better yet,don't have children if you are not prepared to be there for them.

Almost

One of the modes of transports in Cape Town is a train and they usually arrive hourly,which means if you are làte then you have to wait an hour to cath the next train.There are always three groups:those who are on time(and have been waiting for a while),those who arrive just in time and those who almost catch the train.

The last group's condition is the saddest because they see the train and have the hope that they will catch it and sometimes people alert the driver but nonetheless the train leaves them.It reminds me of the 5 foolish virgins.Maybe they thought by being amongst the wise virgins they would receive favor, but Alas,they perished.

Almost yielded to Christ is not the same as fully yielded.The sad thing is,some think there will be another chance for salvation.It's not like tha.Christ died once so that we can be free.When Jesus comes again,he will come take those that are not in sin and those who have accepted him as their personal Saviour-meaninng,they will seek to please him in all they do.

For the rest,they die when Jesus comes and after a millenium,they are given their sentence and they die and will never exist again.

Use this chance to work at your salvation and to get to know God's will.There isn't a second a chance concerning eternal life.You choose

How much are you willing to compromise to get married?

Yesterday I had a chat with my roommate about the fact that I'm a vegetarian.She asked, what will I do if my husband eats meat?I told her I wouldn't marry someone who eats meat.Meat eating does seem like a little thing,but  men fell through appetite and God requires our bodies to be in excellent condition and there is a direct link between what we put in our mouth and our spirituality.

How much more when it comes to doctrinal matters?The Bible is clear that we should NOT be in relations with those of different faith. God prohibited intermarriage between the Israelites and the nations they were to come into contact with.We know what happened when the Israelites disobeyed.they broke the first commandment: idol worship. We are no different:you are bound to choose a man over God-you are no EXCEPTION.

Furthermore,there will always be points of disagreement. No,you won't meet someone who adheres to every doctrine because the Christian journey is progressive; but the individual should be striving towards holiness. But note:they should be of the same faith.

If the person wants to become an SDA,let him,but don't interfere with their growth and evangalise him with the intention of being in a relationship with him.

My point is:better work at certain issues now,before entering marriage because there is no turning back. Your salvation is at stake. Rather marry someone who will not be a stumbling block to your journey to heaven.

The reality of the matter..

You look at your life and you realize:there isn't much to complain about.You look at the lives of those around you,then you realize God's favour is upon you(is also upon them) and you really should be prasing God with all that you have!

So many people are sufferinng and some believe that God has abandoned them-they need us as Christians to bring good tidings-that God sees their pain and he is touched by their struggles and he will never turn a blind eye to their struggles.In fact,Jesus is one person that is acquinted with their struggles because he went through the same struggle and more.

They need to know we will be there for them and we will support them and pray for them.They want us to lend an ear so that that they can pour their struggles .They need an arm that will lead them to the arm of God: the  arm that will not fail,disappoint,or be tired of supporting.They need to know that:Jesus is still the answer and he still bids us:
²⁸ “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. ²⁹ Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. ³⁰ For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”~Matthew 11:28-30 and we can "cast all our burdens on him,because he cares"~1 Peter 5:7

Self-Respect

Self respect goes a long way.I have come to realize,in most instances,people respond to you by the way you potray yourself.Self respect goes hand-in-hand with loving yourself.Manier times,in social networks,people have often labelled taking pictures as 'self-love";but it is not!

Respecting yourself goes deeper than beautifying the outside and taking loads of pictures-often to get likes.Self respect/love does not need an approval from others.It's about you knowing that you are valuable and having principles that will allow you to continue loving yourself.

As a woman,it means:
-You realize your body is valuable and so you will not  sleep aound.They might echo 'you only live once';but once you sleep around/sleep with one who's not your husband you are at risk of going through a heart ache not to mention diseases/unplanned pragnancy

Love yourself enough to not become like an avocado that is touched by every hand.Manier times,people rarely go to such an avocado because it has no value.I don't know but I've seriously been considering this:If you are sleeping with him,what hope is there for marriage?Part of marriage is about sexual intercourse and if you've had those privileges before marriage,what's there to look forward to?Don't allow yourself to be a practical-where he practises so he can get better.You are not an object.

Self-respect also includes the lifestyle yoou choose to live.If you love yourself,then you will not participate,eat,do anything that will harm you.The fact that you are not going to a club and you don't consume alcohol does not mean you are taking care of yourself.Are you exercising,getting adequate rest,drinking enough water,eating a healthy meal-preferrably vegan/vegetarian since there are many diseases and hormones found in the meat.

Are you working on becoming a better person.I believe when you love yourself,you work on becoming a better person-improving every area that needs to be improved.Nowadays,people have become complacent with not knowing,but this is not how we should be.

Self acceptance and self-appreciation are a huge part of loving yourself-yes,I do not have the most beautiful legs to others but I appreciate them and I love them.They make me who I am.

Lastly:Stop comparing yourself-no one is better than you;there can be no better you!

And God is able to make any broken rose into a whole new one!

Up Close and Personal with the Blogger

•  have a twin brother
•  love writing-I get uneasy if I don't write about anything in a day-so if I wasn't busy,I could feel a 2 quire book in a few weeks.
•   enjoy reading
• have coloured relatives
•  enjoy teaching-both kids and adults
• I'm not sure if I like speaking in front of a crowd
• I get frustrated when the environment I'm in is dirty
• I hate or loathe TV-to think I dedicated most of my time watching it last year
• I do not watch movies
• I do not listen to secular music 
• I would love to be a medical missionary soon
• I love girls with short hair and afro
• I dislike the habit of smoking and drinking
• I hate the smell of coffee
• I adore modest women-I often just observe them at times
• I am observant
• I am touched by little children even though I do not know what to say to them
• I do not really like small talk-but I'm getting better at it
• My favourite writer is Joe Crews :)
•  love nature
• love cleaning and washing dishes

I'm inlove...

with my Human Biology lecturer :-)!!!I can't remember the last time I got excited about a subject because one who's teaching it is good-ok,about 3 years ago .She just has a way of teaching the human body in a way that is understandable and makes one more fascinated.You think Math is complicated?Human Biology is quite complex!But my lecturer just makes it neat and less complicated,by grouping everything together.

What makes her more good is her examples and her demonstrations.For example;for the skeleton she often uses a student to demonstrate what she's talking about;by the time you get to the practical you have an idea.I love the fact that she always tries to make you understand and she does everything with humility.She also is close to us-she's a doctor yet it doesn't make you feel inferior to her.Not only does she teach well but she even advises us and motivates us.

And because of her,the way I understand God is different.I now know that God is great, more than I can comprehend and my belief system is stamped just by learning about the human body.I just know there's no way the big bang could have created humans!And that's what teaching should be about-making a student fall in love with subject more everyday and doing all  you can to help the student get the concept!

In Awe

As I listen to the lecturer explaining the 3 types of muscles found in the human body,I cannot  help but be fascinated.The way the cardiac muscle allows the heart to pump blood involuntarily amazes me-but I know,God is in charge;the way the bladder is able to release urine involuntary via the smooth muscle just proves to me,there's a higher power.

When I think of the fact that my body works in congruence,all  the 11 systems; from the atom,to the molecule,to the organelle,to the cell,to the tissue,to the organ,to the organ system maintaining the functions of my body and maintaining life-I know my existence is not by accident or by chance.

When I think about the fact that my body has a feedback system(negative feeback),which cools my body off when it's hot and brings about activities to get my body warm when it's cold- I know that I'm cared for and I do not need God to be the pillar by day and fire by night.

The way my muscles are able to flex,extend,rotate without any difficulties and how my bones,ligaments are all joined  I know this can't be pure luck.The thought that my body is made of 206 bones and my body is divided into the axial and the appendicular skeleton makes me realize I was created and my Creator did not rush or do a lousy job.

When I think of how I am able to stand upright without falling off,how my vertebral column is able to support me,how my rib cage(or ribs) are attached to the sternum(true ribs) with my false ribs never falling off,I know a higher power is control and no man could've thought of this.

The thought that I'm not a see- through(cannot see my internal environment) amazes me.I'm amazed about how my intergumentary system covers me up and this confirms :I'm not meant to be naked.And as I consider how my body has decectors to detect change I know there's a God who's concerned about my well-being.

The fact that my central nervous system is able to communicate with the entire body is a mesage that my body is communicating to me,that I need to communicate and have a relationship with the Maker of this body.The fact that we cannot see how certain processes take place,since they are hidden to the human eye,yet they occur reminds me:I do not have to see God to believe in his existence.

And so I go on to think about minute structures to the largest and how I'm able to function,I know:God is behind everything and like David,I can only say:

WHOSE SIDE ARE YOU ON?

Our High Calling : Page 15

10. Mine to Choose

And if it seem evil unto you to serve the Lord, choose you this day whom ye will serve; ... but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord . Joshua 24:15.
In our world there are two classes. One is made up of those who behold a crucified and risen Saviour. The other includes all who have chosen to look away from the cross, and to follow the leadings of satanic influences. The latter class are busily engaged in putting stumbling blocks before God's people, to cause them to fall, and turn from the path of obedience into the broad way of disobedience and death....
Many choose unrighteousness because Satan presents it in such a way that it seems attractive to those who are not on guard against his wiles. And he works in a special manner through unsanctified men and women who profess to be children of God. In some way or other the enemy will seek to deceive all, even the very elect. Only as we are partakers of the divine nature can we escape the corrupting influences that are brought to bear upon us by the enemy of our souls.
As Satan seeks to break down the barriers of the soul, by tempting us to indulge in sin, we must by living faith retain our connection with God, and have confidence in His strength to enable us to overcome every besetment. We are to flee from evil, and seek righteousness, meekness, and holiness. . . .
It is time for every one of us to decide whose side we are on. The agencies of Satan will work with every mind that will allow itself to be worked by him. But there are also heavenly agencies waiting to communicate the bright rays of the glory of God to all who are willing to receive Him.
It is ours to choose whether we will be numbered with the servants of Christ or the servants of Satan. Every day we show by our conduct whose service we have chosen....
Dear young reader, what choice have you made? What is the record of your daily life?

Don't stay on the ground

There's been times when I've fallen to sin and I'd feel so discouraged and ashamed.But what keeps me going is knowing I have an advocate who  is 'able to cleanse from all unrighteousness' and extends the invitation to me,saying,"confess your sins"(1 John 1:9).

So,even if you've fallen into the sin of harbouring evil feelings towards others,or you've fallen into fornication or you've stolen or you're struggling with an addiction,God is able.There is NO habit that God can not take us away from,even if it's a sexual sin,pornography,or drugs.In fact,Jesus died to save us 'from our sins'-meaning he died so that we can be free from the bondage of sin.So,bring your sin to Him-even if it's 'red as a scarlet' because He is able to make you 'white as snow'.

It's not plain-sailing but it is possile because 'what is impossible with man,is possible with God.' Last year,I had a problem with TV-as I spent the whole year at home and I didn't have much to do away from the house.Initially,I'd go to the library everyday or I'd stay in 'my' room.But after sometime,I fell.It got bad to the extent where I'd watch TV till the early hours of morning.I'd even miss my devotion and fail to do Sabbath preparations in time.

I prayed and I made a decided choice to not  ever watch TV.And guess what?I happen to stay in a room with a TV set and a roommate who's very fond of TV.At first I'd watch it,but there will be something that would clash with God's principles-so I ended up hating it.Now,I cannot stand watching TV and I feel sad on behalf of those who watch it.Yes,it passes time;but not in anything resourceful(but ofcourse national geographic is resourceful).Instead,you end up having to fight over impure thoughts or images you've seen.And I thank God for helping me.

I can go on counting other things the Lord has helped me to let go off-like secular music etc.My point is,God is already willing to help us from our sinful ways;it all depends on us.We have to make a decided change not to sin again.To avoid situations that will place us in the same sin.

Get up,Jesus is still your advocate!Ask for forgiveness and leave the sin today.Jesus told the adulterous woman to 'go and sin no more'.The reason Jesus commanded it is because He knew it's do-able and she(we) could do it.And nowhere in the Bible do we find an account of her caught in sin again.

Jesus is able to do the same for us,he is able to present us "spotless and without blemish" only as we work together with him and we make a decided effort not to give in;only as we subject every thought,word,action to God's will.

"His biddings are enablings!"

Modesty,from a different angle

I really had a blessed Sabbath,mainly because of the message God had prepared for me.It was a cutting message,which has made me pray even harder because I see my shortcomings.But overall I was blessed!

The afternoon session dealt with dress reform;but I love how the speaker made it clear that modesty encompasses our behaviour as well.He defined it as "the reserve that should exist between the opposite sexes".He said there should be love between us but boundaries should be there as well.I learnt that males should not feel comfortable with saying what they want,touching me,or making improper comments.

These are some of the other strategies you may use to reserve your dignity:
-Males should not visit your room,unless they bring along a sister
-Don't hug the opposite sex
-Avoid late chats with the opposite sex

I also avoid calling males for NO particular reason-I'd rather send a text if it's serious.


And you can also put yours.All in all,the idea is to avoid things getting overboard to the extent where sin is involved.He also mentioned something that I've believed for a year now;Avoid being too close to a male,to the point where you can't go a day without him or you share everything with him.He also went to say,we are to avoid settings where we fall of a guy;especially a guy who doesn't even have the interest of being in a relationship that will lead to marriage.

All in all,females should get along with males;but the relationships should honor God and nothing impure should come from the conversation we have.

It's not that easy because sometimes you think you are just being 'friendly'.But I'm learning that we can still have fulfilling relationships-sharing the word and ways to grow in Christianity without developing feelings;hence we need to guard ourselves.

Secondly,he touched on dress reform.We learnt that dress reform is there for health reasons and is there to remove the temptation that the males face.It also means that you respect yourself and by your dress,you want to please God.Also,we have a responsibility of being our brother's keepers-since they are visual beings-get easily attracted by sight.