More reasons to celebrate!!!

A few months ago while in the library, I met a coloured guy.I was writing a blog post and he read what I was writing.He asked if I was Christian and questioned me on why he should believe in God alone.Everytime he saw me,he called me his sister.He even came to my defence one day.There's a section in the library where you need an administrator to log on for you before you can get access.So,this one morning the computers were logged in.One of the workers in the library asked how I had loggen in.He told her I'm a Christian and I'd never do such (this still makes me weigh my behaviour,because people are watching even when we are unconscious).

Anyway,I prayed for him-asking that God will reveal the truth to him.I'd wanted to give him  Steps to Christ but didn't have a chance.Today I saw him again and he told me about God.Wow!!!I thank God and I cannot express how grateful I am.He understands the Godhead,that Jesus is God and he has been there from the beginning and so it is with Holy Spirit.He even went to tell me how false the Islam religion is since it's man-made.He went on to talk about the Old Testament being redundant.I told him it's the ceremonial laws that have become redundant as they were pointing to Jesus.He agreed!He understands that God is the Creator God :).

The only thing he has a problem with is pork-lol.He told me about the Scripture where Paul says when we thank God for the food it becomes clean (still to read this).But he also spoke about Daniel's diet and God wanting us to eat it.I was touched-still am.I called him my brother!He was quick to reply "not yet".He used a vulgar word and was quick to say,"excuse my language".I really thank God for what he is doing for him.He tells me he has been studying the Bible,the Quran and another book-forgot it.

I am filled with joy for what God is doing for him.He has really grown and he has accepted a lot of biblical truths-Christ's incarnation,His death and Resurrection,His requirements-men loving their wives and serving as priests,women respecting their husbands.He even mentioned that if we are not for God,then we are for satan.Such significant truths.I'll keep praying till he accepts the truth as is according to God's word.Please help me pray for him.

Nothing is as humbling and makes me happy and filled with joy like souls accepting the truth as is and searching for God's Word for themselves.I'd like to be in heaven.It will be such a grand union.To meet those we've shared the word with,to meet the ones we've prayed for and more.Indeed,it is only God who can bring about repentance in people's hearts.
 

A Letter from the Guys

 

Girls, could we talk to you right out of our hearts for a few minutes? It is awkward for us to talk about something of this nature, in person, so we thought we would write our feelings.

We are young men who have been saved and baptized in the Holy Spirit. We desperately want to live for Christ and not follow the ways of the world. Since we have been baptized (immersed) in a Holy Spirit, we feel in our hearts that we should live holy lives. After all, our bodies are the temple, the sanctuary, the place where the Holy Spirit lives and makes His home.

We know that guys and girls are affected differently, so since we desperately want to follow hard after God, could we kindly and respectfully ask you to help us with a few things? We realize that girls are primarily stimulated or turned on by touch. Did you know that guys are turned on by sight? So when you are aroused (sexually awakened) by a guy's "touch," we are in the same way aroused by mere sight.

Let us explain. When we see girls who are dressed in a suggestive, revealing, provocative, teasing, tantalizing manner, our sexual desires are aroused. Our bodies are then affected. To be absolutely candid, let us give you some examples of what we are referring to. If you are wearing a blouse that barely meets the waist of your slacks and some of your skin shows while you are moving around, or simply while you are walking, sitting, or kneeling, our minds are geared to wonder what more of your body would look like further up....This causes our bodies to respond biologically, and suddenly we are fighting a war in our minds and bodies. And that war of lust is continuing often long, even hours, after you are gone. We hate this, because our righteous man wants to think pure thoughts.... 

When you wear low-cut tops which are in any degree revealing, or when you bend over, and they are revealing, this again causes us big problems in the flesh. Or if the back is out of your top, we automatically think that you do not have the undergarment on, and the Spirit and the flesh begin to fight again. Or when we see any glimpse of straps and the like, we have trouble.

What we are trying to say is this: If it is not for sale, don't advertise it. We really feel that the still small voice of the Holy Spirit speaks to you and nudges you when it is too tight, too short, too low, or too revealing. Will you listen to that voice? For the Scripture says, "Quench not the Spirit." (1 Thess. 5:19)

Girls, do you know what we would really like? We would like to come among our Christian sisters and not have to fight and struggle in the flesh. We do not need to have to wrestle in the flesh at church or at church activities. We men, whether young, old, single or married, are faced with this every day among girls of the world . But we would like to have rest in our Spirit man when we come among Christian girls . After all, doesn't the Scripture tell us to "come out from among the world and be you separate, saith the Lord." (2 Cor. 6:17) It also tells us that "all that is in the world, the lust of the eye, and the lust of the flesh, is not of the Father, but is of the world." (1 John 2:15) 

We are the church, not the world. We know that people often use the verse, "Man looketh on the outward appearance, but God looketh on the heart," (1 Sam. 16:7) to condone anything they wish to wear. This is one of the most misused/used out-of-context verses in the Bible. Conversely, the fact is, if your heart is pure, your outward appearance will be modest .... 

Girls can be fashionable and modest at the same time. To be honest, we respect you more when your appearance is modest, as the Scripture commands in 1 Timothy 2:9. We really do not want the kind of girl who dresses provocatively, for we know that if we marry her, she will still be that way in the presence of other men once we are married. 

We know that we have Christian responsibilities toward girls, too. We must be careful to portray ourselves properly. We must treat you like ladies. If we are really committed Christian guys, we will strive to treat you like Jesus would. After all, you are daughters of God. 

Thank you, dear Christian sisters, for hearing our hearts on this subject. Once we have conveyed the truth of the matter to you, you become responsible before God for what you do with the truth. We really are our brother's keeper . (Genesis 4:9.) We know that there is a "cult of conformity" in our generation, but we as Christians march to the beat of a different drummer. 

Please, girls, do not say, "I don't care," but help us in these last days to live as close to Jesus as we can.

Thank you so much.

Sincerely,

Committed Christian Guys

 

(Source:Remnant Raiment)

In need of grace

Many wives;few good,committed mothers

Many ladies desiring marriage;very few willing to accept God's ideal-submission,home-keeping etc

Many ladies praying for husbands;very few praying to be ennobling help-meets

Many ladies eager to have children;very few willing to fulfill God's calling for them as mothers

Many praying for godly men;very few willing to be godly

Many in relationships;Soldemly from God's approval

Many seeking to be blessings to their bfs/fiance;very few blessing those in their homes and around

Many seeking to be wives;very few thoroughly equipped to take care of the home

Many seeking first happiness in their relationships;very few seeking the kingdom of God and His righteousness in their relationships

Many fb posts about how much she loves him;very few praying and ennobling their bfs

Loads of time spent together in picnics and outings;little time spent in studying and praying together

Many relationship taking the world's ideal;yet many seeking God to bless these

Many late night calls;little time for individual prayer and study

Many hurting,aimless souls due to all this

‪#‎God_help_us‬

My Dress Reform Journey:Part 2

When God made it clear to me that I was to no longer wear trousers and short skirts/dresses (revealing limbs) I was happy but at the same time I felt anxious.I didn't want to look  unpresentable plus I didn't even know how to wear modestly since there wasn't anyone I knew who dressed so.But God, through His providences led me to a Youtube video (Hem of his garment ministries) someone had shared  on fb.When I got there it was talking about how to dress modestly and instantly I knew He was leading me.God is  the author of beauty-so we need not worry about that aspect.He will take care of it.

The hardest part was departing with my high heels,with some of my mini-dresses and my braided her.It seemed like a burden too much to carry.But I now look at what Christ did and know no sacrifice is too much.On the other hand I was nervous about what people would say.But at the same time I was cut by the message and I knew I had to change my dress and it's been a journey!Plus if we do not adhere to the light that has been shared ,it then becomes a curse.There are times where you get discouraged because you are the only one covering your hair and covering up but God uses even  one person to lead others to truth.But at the same time I had to be careful and ask for humility,lest I thought I was more righteous!As much as the way we dress must glorify God,we are to ever to keep in mind that a character after Christ's likeness is what will take us to heaven.

I'm still reforming even now.It hasn't been easy finding long skirts for someone of my height and at times that's really discouraging,so you end up buying whatever you can find(need to learn how to sew).But God has been faithful and I've learnt that when God has called us to something,He provides the means and He will even teach us-but we must allow the Holy Spirit to guide.When He tells us that "the dress is not appropriate" we need to let go.

To those sisters who'd like to reform in dress:Always keep in the forefront that the "work of reformation starts with the heart" and God requires to rid us of sin and produce His character in us and have us bear the fruit of the Spirit.Pray earnestly to God and ask for His Guidance and with a receptive heart study the matter;so that you are founded on God's word and you can answer when asked about your dress.Also,do it for God-if you do it for Him, you will not go back to your old dressing style and even if people may start calling you names, you won't be shaken.

And some,who like me, who depend on their parents for funds- you may wonder where you are to start.But all I can say :²⁵ “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? ²⁶ Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? ²⁷ Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life^[e]?~Matthew 6:25-27

It might take a year or much longer to change your clothes to be what God would have them be.Sometimes you might even have to wear the short skirts since you might have one long skirt or two which are for church.But do not be discouraged.In due time,God will provide and do not let the matter of dress occupy the mind in so much that you neglect cultivating a character like Christ's.Dress reform is God's mean to cultivate in us His character-I see it in my life.To those who have the means,do not any longer use God's money to buy that which will not glorify Him.

I feel the responsibility of allowing the Holy Spirit not only to mold my dress but my character because I do not want to be like the fig tree that appeared fruitful until Jesus got closer to it.The heart must be right-then the speech,the character and our influence will draw others to God !  

My dress reform journey

I’ve always heard that we are to “do all to the glory of God” and I’ve always read this verse thinking that it only related to spiritual practices. Then in 2013, while at Rhodes SDASM a speaker spoke about dress reform. He exhorted the ladies to not be stumbling blocks and he included even the shoes we wear. I was angry because I loved high heels so much and a new shop selling heels had just opened.So, I just dismissed him. But the Holy Spirit convicted me of one thing-being a stumbling block to my brothers. So I purposed in my heart to never wear skirts that show my thighs.

Three months after this, I met a friend who is dear to me. God used him to help me understand the dress reform message. He shared about dress reform on fb and I started wondering if God really cared about what I wore.So,I began searching the word and the first verse I came across was Deuteronomy 22:5 which reads “The woman shall not wear that which pertaineth unto a man, neither shall a man put on a woman's garment: for all that do so are abomination unto the Lord thy God” and soon after reading this passage I came across Malachi 3:6,” For I am the Lord, I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed”. After reading Malachi I could not argue against the Holy Spirit and I made a decision to never wear my trousers again.

The following day I got into my skinny jean and as I was about to exit the room I just felt naked, as if everyone could see my body. I never wore trousers again.So, I was convinced as long as I wore skirts and dresses I was okay. When I went on to study about dress reform I learnt that the skirt had to cover the legs. My dear friend went on to share about head covering. I must say I was shocked. I wondered why only married women wore covered their hair.I went on to ask two ladies who confirmed. One shared with me Isaiah 47:1-3 in relation to 1 Corinthians 11.

I still wasn’t prepared as I really loved my relaxed hair and showing it off.It took me about a month to come to accept this. I sincerely prayed for God’s direction and he directed me that I needed to cover my head when coming in his presence-by prayer. So, I initially wore the doek when I was going to pray. But since there’s no appropriate time for prayer I realised I needed to wear the covering even during the day.
I also got rid of all my heels .There was one problem though, my heart was still not right. I thought dress reform made me better than others. But as I studied I learnt it was about pleasing God and when I completely understood this it came from the heart. I no longer care what people say as long as God is pleased and my brothers aren’t tempted when looking at me.

Dress reform has made me realise it’s all about God and giving him glory. I’m now at a point where I’m not dressing to be seen but so that Christ can be seen. I no longer feel the deep need of measuring up to other ladies and adhering to the fashion of this world. I feel liberated and I am humbled that I get to have this privilege of wearing for God’s glory. 

"In dress, as in all things else, it is our privilege to honor our Creator. He desires our clothing to be not only neat and healthful, but appropriate and becoming."1Education, 248

CLEO'S DRESS REFORM JOURNEY

Why the sudden change Cleo?

Many of you may be asking yourselves that question, especially those who grew up with me or those who watched me as I grew.

Let me start by saying, "It is of the LORD'S mercies that we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not." Lamentations 3:22.

As I mentioned in my previous post that God has the appointed time for us to know and understand certain things. As we seek Him, He will be found of us, that's what He has promised us in Jeremiah 29:13.
Miniskirts, pants, spaghetti/string tops were ever in my wardrobe. They were all "normal" to me. To me God was just for church not for my wardrobe or food and habits. When I started attending the Adventist church, I had only 3 skirts and one of them was just above the knees and the rest were the knee length. So one Sabbath I wore the shorter one and a mother from church called me(in a very nice way) and said to me, "we don't wear mini skirts to church" and I said ok. Soon after that I had a battle in my mind,  should I heed her words or should I ignore them, after all who is she to tell me how to  dress. But I just forgot about it and carried on in my skirts. 

Let me mention this -in case I forget- fashion is no friend to anyone,  she may be winning you fans and you may be adored by almost all but trust me,  when she is done with you, the only place suitable for you(according to her) will be the grave and eternal destruction together with her.

When I got to high school and made friends,  I was almost hooked into fashion, but I thank God for my mother who did not buy me clothes because fashion says, "this is the in thing". Although I wished to look as "hot" as some of my school mates,  circumstances forbade me. I had many clothes but I was just not satisfied! I wore short shorts knowing fully well that some brother's head would be turned just to look at my beautiful legs (oh how I am disgusted,  even at the thought of it).

As I look back now I realise that though I did not know God, he protected me from a lot of harm. I remember some women telling mom that I had a beautiful slender body and she should allow me to do modelling and she always refused and I got upset about that, I tried entering some designing competitions (I designed clothes as well but somehow I was lazy to publish them) but the doors were CLOSED! So I only dreamt. 

Let me fast forward to beginning of my dress reformation. One day we were talking with my sister and brothers from church and one brother said that my wife will never wear pants unless she rebels.  And that struck me! And I had a battle once more, but I love pants so much! I can't survive in SKIRTS! I can tolerate it just for Sabbath but not the whole week! Aah no ways! 

At that time my sister was all skirts and I wondered how she did it and her dressing was piercing me inside because I knew it was right, I regret to say I tried discouraging her. I just did not want to give away my clothes now, not yet!

One day as I was reading my Bible I came across this verse: Matthew 24:18 "Neither let him which is in the field return back to take his clothes."
And I thought what! Should the time of trouble begin and I'm in my pants, I will not be able to make it to heaven. At that moment I knew my wardrobe had to change.

I then began wearing my skirts even during the week and I loved my new look. Then in 2013 I heard about modesty and I thought I wear skirts so I'm modest,  little did I know that I was still wearing "fig leaves"{Genesis 3}. I then began to search the writings of Ellen White to know just what is this modesty and God began to work in my heart,  He can not have me speak about heaven looking like a worldling, nay! To clear my confusion on on other issues on dress, he placed before me women,  who through their lifestyles I learnt how to dress for the glory of God.  And I have never been so happy and satisfied about my dressing as I am now. 

There's a group on Facebook called: Dress reform rises from the ashes, that I joined sometime last year. There's a lady who posted a presentation on dress reform and as I read, I could not help but tremble at the thought that I wasn't dressed before God! I felt naked and as I finished reading, there was a link at the bottom: www.sistersinskirts.com 

What I read from the linked changed my life forever. I remember reading one of the testimonies there and I was convinced without a doubt that my wardrobe needed to change. I wept and pleaded with God to forgive me and to provide clothes for me that glorify Him. I only had 3 modest clothes, the rest were aprons. I started with my church wardrobe, then went to the one of during the week and I'm pleased to say God has been and continues to be good to me in this area of my life.  :D

Concerning my head covering, I was introduced to a group of missionaries late 2013 and one thing I noticed with the ladies is that, they always covered their hair and that used to trouble me a lot because, from the cultural view only married women cover their heads but now I was confused because the missionaries were varsity students and were not married. I prayed about it until one day when someone asked me, "have you ever thought of covering your head" and I thought, could this be God speaking through the individual so that I may study the matter. I prayed even more and asked a missionary sister who always covered her head to help and she did and her help changed my life for good!

Somehow this reform demands respect from brothers, being called with inappropriate names has ceased too.

And my reasons for changing my dress keep increasing, not only is God glorified but my health improves as well. 

In conclusion I'd like to say that,  many of our sisters die, are dying and will die because of being slaves of fashion when they know how God will have them dress like. And by die I mean the death that we die now and the eternal death. My dear sisters in Christ,  Pride should not be nourished in your hearts by your obedience to fashion, the end thereof is death. 

1 Timothy 2:9 - 10

9 In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array;
10 But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works. 

The path to eternal life is steep and rugged. Take no additional weights to retard your progress. AH 67.2

Finally one friend says, "dress the way you want to be addressed".

Leaving God's church

I’ve been thinking about those who’ve left the church because of others: it is a sad condition and God will hold the people responsible accountable.But help me understand this:is your argument of leaving the church really logic when you compare it to what Jesus has done for you?Why not try other churches rather than the one you love? The sad reality is,we have more to fear from within than without.Often it is those that are inside that discourage and hate those who love Jesus.But that is not a valid reason to stop being a Christian.

Look at Christ and what he has done for you and you’ll find every excuse invalid.So what if you have to wear the same dress every Sabbath?So what if they are saying hurtful things?That should not deter you from your walk with Jesus!Christ never promised that we will be loved.

What if Jesus said he was tired of all the things the Pharisees were saying about him?What if it got too much that he said he can’t go to the cross?Where would you and I be then?Christianity has never been about acceptance in man’s eye and will ever be about acceptance through God’s eyes.Let them talk!In eternity there won’t be any hurtful words.Isn’t that a place far worth than sacrificing your salvation? In fact,if we don’t make it to heaven, we can only blame ourselves-not circumstance and not people!

1 Peter 3:13-17King James Version (KJV)

13 And who is he that will harm you, if ye be followers of that which is good?
14 But and if ye suffer for righteousness' sake, happy are ye: and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled;
15 But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:
16 Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ.
17 For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing.

Social networks and superficiality

There's a trend I've noticed on facebook.In fact, I have come to realise that there's a group that has lost its individuality or purpose due to social networks-mainly facebook.I've noticed that as people we enjoy being liked and that's a fairly reasonable thing.But it all becomes tragic when we do things to be liked,instead of being ourselves.And I for sometime struggled with this concept,although I've never been one to please others.Somewhere down the line I found myself saying things or doing things just so I could be liked.But the Holy Spirit is helping me in this regard and I conclude:we can only become who we are truly are and what we are supposed to be when we understand our identity in Christ.

The sad thing is,not everyone does and due to this,people end up seeking identity or fulfillment in various ways.Some live for comments.Some are even in relationships-not because the end goal is marriage BUT so that they can create this concept about themselves.It's almost as if they are creating this picture perfect life of themselves while in reality,they aren't as close to the people they potray to be in public.

On the other hand,we have a group that has double standards.Some are saints on facebook but in reality they have caused many tears and there are many who can point their gloom on them.Some are confusing people.One minute they are preaching about God and the next minute they pose naked or say things that are not in line with what they preach.

But honestly,there is one who cannot be fooled.I've come to realise that as much as we are to be mindful of how we live,the only person we should try to impress is God.At the end of the day,life goes on.You might be the girl who had the cutest bf,the cutest pics,the most godly statuses but at the end of it all, "do it all for God's glory" and "do everything as unto God" rather than mankind.Mankind's opinion have their place,but God's takes higher priority.

There's much to life than presenting a false image and living just to have people talk.Life is much worth it when it is lived for others,instead of being centered on you!

 “Look, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to each person according to what they have done."~Revelation 22:12

How CAN WE on God's conditions when we CAN'T on His conditions

The brother shared this message the week before last and today it came to mind and I feel sad-sad at the fact that I want to partake of the privileges of being in a relationship with God but I'm not willing to do my part.God's love is unconditional but every promise has conditions.As much as everything he offers is free-we still have to play our part.

God gave Adam and Eve everything and He laid only 1 condition for them-to not eat on three of knowledge of good and evil.And up to this day God still lays condition for us.But sadly we often turn a blind eye to the conditions while expecting to receive the conditions.We want God to bless and keep us-which is fair but are worth keeping?Are we living lives that are blessing others?

We want to eneter into heaven but we are not willing to "be seperate" and leave sin alone.We want marriage-but we are not married to Him.We want all these promises.But the question is:Can God even trust us with His promises,when we don't meet the requirements.

We love hearing that God loves us but we are not willing to let go of things he hates.It's not fair.God has a heart.He gets hurt too.Let's play fair for once.Let's look at the conditions and do our part in adhering to the conditions so that He may play His.

Sympathizing instead of mourning

"Angels are listening to hear what kind of report you are bearing to the world about your heavenly Master.Let your conversatiom be of Him who liveth to make intercession for you before the Father.When you take the hand of a friend,let praise to God be on your lips and in your heart.This will attract his thoughts to Jesus."

 All have trials;griefs hard to bear,temptations hard to resist.Do not tell your troubles to fellow mortals,but carry everything to God in prayer.Make it a rule never to utter one word of doubt or discouragement.You can do much to brighten the life of others and strengthen their efforts,by words of hope and holy cheer.

There is many a brave soul sorely pressed by temptation,almost ready to faint in the conflict with self and with the powers of evil.Do not discourage such a one in his hard struggle.Cheer him with brave,hopeful words that shall urge him on his way.Thus the light of Christ may shine from you."None of us liveth for himself." Romans 14:7.

By our unconscious influence others may be encouraged or strengthened,or they may be discouraged,and repelled from Christ and the truth." ~Steps to Christ.page 91

The last statement is really heart-breaking.How many people have I misled!To think that while not aware,I could lead others away from Christ.This means we(I) are to be mindful of the influence we have and we are to be always under the influence of the Holy Spirit.Indeed,we can do nothing when we are not in the Vine.

Maybe,I need to keep quiet and say nothing;lest by opening my mouth I be a vessel in the hands of the devil :(.

It could have been me

Yesterday I woke up a bit late for Sabbath.I was exhausted.As I was about to leave for church,which is a 15 minutes walking distance,my room-mate came in.I was a bit shocked since she was supposed to be at work.Then she told me what had happened :(.She was robbed-in broad day light with a gun.I am glad she wasn't hurt and at least the guy only took her tab-didn't see her phone.She was really shaken when I left...and for the first time,I am glad I didn't leave early for church.It could have been me who was pointed with a gun.

And I didn't miss much from Sabbath school.I realise it was God who was directing me yesterday.I kept trying to be fast and did all I could to be early,but I still lost track of time.I can only live by faith and be safe.

O!That I may be like the maid of Naaman

(Found in 2 Kings 5)

"And the Syrians had gone out by companies, and had brought away captive out of  the land of Israel a little maid;and she waited on Naaman's wife"vs2

Can you imagine at such a little age being seperated from your parents?Even when scared you'd have no one to turn to.This was the condition of this little girl.She was seperated from loved ones and had no one.She was in a strange land and those who had her could do whatever to her.So she had every right to be scared and depressed.

But instead she was a blessing in the midst of her plight.She did not spend her days mourning and talking about how unfortunate she was.Instead,she helped Naaman to be healed.Instead of stressing and turning inward and worrying about her emancipation,she was able to serve.Naaman,the captain,was healed because of her.

How many of us,when faced with difficulties are like her?Do we even have time for other people's worries?Or do focus on ourselves and the unfortunate circumstances we find ourselves in?Do we even have time to find out about how others are or all we do is talk about ourselves and seek sympathy from others?

Like this little maid we are pilgrims.This is not our home and we are not safe.But God has promised to be with us always.I'm sure this is what strengthened this little maid.Even though she had not one physically present with her,she had God.God who is interested with everyone's life.I'm sure she found comfort in knowing that whatever situation she found herself in,God was with her and it was for her benefit.

She would have never known what it was like to depend entirely on God if it wasn't for this experiences and today she is an encouragement to many.Like her,we find ourselves in various situations that lead us to be discouraged.But let us learn to be a blessing.God has called us to be a blessing to others even amid the trials.

So often we become so selfish and centered in our own little worlds and our little sorrows.But we need not to be so.We need to trust in the Lord and leave all to Him.By so doing,we will be able to bless those who are hurting and instead of talking about our struggles,we'll talk about His power and we'll be a healing balm.

There are so many souls that are hurting.They need to be led to the One who is able to comfort and soothe every sorrow.But how can we do so,if we are not established in Him.We can never be able to bless,while we focus on our sorrows.Let us fix our eyes on the "author and finisher of our faith" so that we may be able to be  the "salt and light" we are called to be. 

It's sad

I find it funny that when  a Christian decides to adhere to God's will,the first ones to criticise him are Christians.The saying "we have more to fear from within than without" is so true.But then again Christ was hated and attacked by the same ones who claimed to follow God's way!Even looking at our pioneers,they were attacked by the same individuals placed in leadership.

But what i fail to understand is:why ?I see it as hate-after all,they hated Jesus.So I'm learning:the more you draw closer to Christ and allow Him to change you,you will be hated and some will claim that you are "acting holier than thou".It's scary and sad.It's sad that we cannot find comfort in those who are supposed to be holding our hands in the Christian journey.

So,when you start reforming,don't expect support.Sometimes you have to travel the road alone because it is "strait and narrow and few choose it".As for the criticism that will come,just let God fight the battles-so that when they point fingers they find nothing on you.
 
On the other hand,I pity the critics.Aren't you then questioning God Himself?In fact,it is not loving of you.Why not keep quiet rather?Or seek to truly understand why someone is doing such.Rather than to make the cross heavy to bear!

The church is not ENTIRELY responsible

The church is like a school,I believe.It has been placed by God to draw perishing souls to him.It is there to teach and to exemplify the ways of the Lord.But like  a school,as much as the teachers are responsible to impart education to the students,the student must study for himself to succeed and the student has a responsibility to dig deep into the course of his study.

I've always blamed the church for not having known a certain biblical concept and as much as those who are in leadership are commanded to feed and take care of the church,they are not entirely responsible.When we accept Jesus as our personal Saviour,we make it an individual and personal responsibility to search God's word for ourselves and to hear God speak to us individually and to take directions directly from Him rather than those He has placed to serve.

In fact,our salvation,to a great extent depends on studying the Word of God so that we can know what is His will for us!When we are baptised,we vow that we believe in the testimonies and the Bible.Now,if we sincerely believe in God's Word and the testimonies,we will NOT wait upon church leaders to conduct studies nor will we point fingers at the church.

After all,the church is composed of people-who are at different levels spiritually.So,we are accountable and we have a great responsibility of finding out and studying God's Word for ourselves.God has not placed the knowledge of His will on pastors,elders or leaders.He has made it available in His Word and in the testimonies.

We cannot hold the church and its leaders responsible for our ignorance on certain doctrines.Instead,we only have ourselves to blame.If we earnestly seek to know God's will,we will search for ourselves and God,who has promised to be there when we seek Him,will reveal His will to us,even if it means we are the first ones to come to light.

We will not be saved because the church taught it;but we will be saved by searching the Scriptures for ourselves and adhering to God's revealed will.In heaven,we can never answer,"the pastor did not preach it".God works in mysterious ways to lead us to the truth and we have a responsibility to work with him.It is time for each one of us to actually work for our own salvation and to not depend on any men,except the man,Jesus Christ and His revealed will,through the Bible and the testimonies.

Family

I'm glad that God still gave us the opportunity to retain the marriage relation EVEN after sin entered.I now get to be part of a family I never knew 7 months ago and I love them too much.One thing I regret is spending too little time with them!

God has blessed me with a dear lady friend and I have the privilege of visiting her home whenever I want.And it really feels like home.I love her children :).I consider them as my younger siblings.The free hugs I get and the constant questions,although tiring,make me feel loved and welcomed!Prior to this,I wished I had more siblings,but I realise God has placed children all over who I can call siblings,after all we are all related.

One of the reasons I enjoy visiting her home is because there's work to do :-).Ever since I read Adventist Home concerning our attitude towards house chores,I really started to enjoy them and I do them with a cheerful heart.Renting a room means I don't have much house work anyway and the least I could do is help where I can-after all I'm alive to be of service to others.

Prior my long visit to her house,I really didn't know there's that much house work when one is a mother.On the other hand, there are kids that need attention.I'd advise the unmarried ladies and those who don't have children to visit the mothers and offer help.At least it makes the work lighter :).

I pray that my room as a student will always be full of visitors,love,kindness and more.I pray that if I get to have a house in this life,my house will be a refuge for the hungry,broken-hearted and more.


Aww,how can I forget the sweet comment from my daughter's friend.She said she think I'm godly because I speak softly :)!I hope and pray to never raise my voice at any child and anyone,even when I'm provoked;unless there's danger of course.

God is able

-To mend broken hearts

-To fulfill loneliness with joy

-To turn anger into peace

-To mend brokenness to blessing

-To change  evil desires to new,pure,holy ones

-To complete and fill the void

-To do more THAN we can imagine

-To turn selfishness to kindness and generosity

-To turn coldness and formalism to unpretentious love

-To turn your pain to someone else's blessing

Cooking Adventures :)

I am excited!I'm super excited since my cooking is improving on a daily basis.Well,the reason I'm excited is because I had mentioned here that I've never been a fan of cooking.My brother did the cooking and I just felt pressured that it didn't come naturally to me as it did to him.I remember my dad asking me why I wasn't keen on cooking and I told him I wasn't getting married.Such ignorance.And to think that I want to be a medical missionary soon.I'd be not thoroughly equipped if I don't know how to cook.I blame Rhodes University and my mom!!!!We had a dining hall so we didn't cook.

Last year I spent the whole year at home and I kinda enjoyed being a "stay-at-home" daughter.But I dreaded the cooking process.I'd get something and the next time it would be a complete fail and I just felt discouraged.Cooking felt like writing trial exams in matric.I just felt like God hadn't given me the talent and I had made peace that I'd never be able to cook.All I could do was cook basic things like rice,macaroni,spaghetti and probably stew and frying veggie stuff-is that cooking though?

This year I came across a video on why cooking is important here.I had read all that has been shared and I learnt that it was my God-given duty to know how to cook.And like Daniel had purposed in his heart not to defile himself with  king Nebuchadnezzar's food,I also purposed in my heart that I was going to learn how to cook.And since I'm renting a flat,I have no choice but to cook.And my cooking is really looking up.

I guess I've always had the idea that cooking takes no practice.It something that you wake up and you're able to do.But that's not how life is.Nothing comes without practice.Like Christianity is a journey of continual advancement,so is cooking.

These days I can cook a meal with 4 different things and I rarely eat bread.Yay!!!Although I must admit there has been times I have miserably failed,made bloopers,it's still coming.I remember feeling frustrated and telling my mom's friend that God hadn't blessed with the cooking skill.And she said that it will come as I keep at it.She was right.I'm even inventing my own recipes.I'm not a fan of recipe books,-I'm enjoying learning how to cook certain things and since I'm sharing a flat I ask when I'm not sure.I'll use cooking books when I'm perfect.

My brother has been my greatest supporter.I've been spending my vac with him,since I've realised that I'm actually a social being and I've been cooking for him.And he's been giving me constructive criticism.I remember cooking split peas and assuming they were well cooked without even tasting them.I felt bad!So,I kept cooking them till I could make them soft.But there has been victories too.Like I always stir fry carrots as opposed to boiled ones and my bro is a big fan.He also liked today's supper,which included mashed potatoes.Although I had felt that I hadn't cooked them like the last time (to perfection) he really enjoyed the meal.He said he'd "pay" for the meal I cooked.I was overjoyed :),still am!

The way I'm excited :).It's so nice to get to a point where you enjoy a meal you've cooked yourself.The joys of cooking!!!!Now,I can invite my "mother" for a meal :-).I should start baking now-baking a cake is gonna be my first baking project.I don't consider baking muffins as much baking/bread.I can't wait to cook for my birth mom!I've always looked forward to the day where my mom wouldn't touch the pots for a week.Can't wait for December so that I can go home and cook for my dearest mother and my dad.

I thank God for teaching me how to cook and cheering me up.Now I have to work on salt-since I always put too little/too much.Or putting too much water.It seems like I've forgotten my bro's advice.To always put little water and build up from there. At least,I woudn't be ashamed to share my lunch with a stranger now.

"Upon no account should the marriage relation be entered upon until the parties have a knowledge of the duties of a practical domestic life. The wife should have culture of mind and manners that she may be qualified to rightly train the children that may be given her."~AH,p.87

"Many ladies, accounted well-educated, having graduated with honors at some institution of learning, are shamefully ignorant of the practical duties of life. They are destitute of the qualifications necessary for the proper regulation of family, and hence essential to its happiness. They may talk of woman’s elevated sphere and of her rights, yet they themselves fall far below the true sphere of woman.

"It is the right of every daughter of Eve to have a thorough knowledge of household duties, to receive training in every department of domestic labor. Every young lady should be so educated that if called to fill the position of wife and mother, she may preside as a queen in her own domain. She should be fully competent to guide and instruct her children and to direct her servants, or, if need be, to minister with her own hands to the wants of her household. It is her right to understand the mechanism of the human body and the principles of hygiene, the matters of diet and dress, labor and recreation, and countless others that intimately concern the well-being of her household. It is her right to obtain such a knowledge of the best methods of treating disease that she can care for the children in sickness,instead of leaving her precious treasures in the hands of stranger nurses and physicians."~AH,p87,88

"The idea that ignorance of useful employment is an essential characteristic of the true gentleman or lady is contrary to the design of God in the creation of man. Idleness is a sin, and ignorance of common duties is the result of folly, which afterlife will give ample occasion to bitterly regret."~AH,p.88

"Young women think that it is menial to cook and do other kinds of housework; and, for this reason, many girls who marry and have the care of families have little idea of the duties devolving upon a wife and mother.

It should be a law that young people should not get married unless they know how to care for the children that are brought into their family. They must know how to take care of this house that God has given them. Unless they understand in regard to the laws which God has established in their system, they cannot understand their duty to their God or themselves."~AH,p.88

"To the health and happiness of the whole family nothing is more vital than skill and intelligence on the part of the cook. By ill-prepared, unwholesome food she may hinder and even ruin both the adult’s usefulness and the child’s development. Or by providing food adapted to the needs of the body, and at the same time inviting and palatable, she can accomplish as much in the right as otherwise she accomplishes in the wrong direction. So, in many ways, life’s happiness is bound up with faithfulness in common duties."~AH,p89

"Born and raised in the church" does not equate to Christians : Part 2

I have come to realise that the home influence plays a great deal in how we turn out to be and in our Christianity.And to large extent,I blame parents for their children not turning out as Christians. Of course this argument is two sided and both sides are true:as much as parents are responsible,so are the kids.After all, parents can do all that they were supposed to do and the children may still not be saved.And this is the sad reality of the great controversy between good and evil.But I'd like to focus on the influence of the home life since I've been studying about it's influence on how children turn out.

I decided to read Child Guidance since I felt the need to be prepared to raise kids if God were to call me to it and since I started wondering what marriage entails and how children were to be raised.And I'm grateful to God for bringing the thought.In fact,it was the Holy Spirit-since every good thing is cultivated by him.And as I started to read the book I was pained and I'm still pained.I looked at my life and saw how much light had been neglected and what hurt more is when I look around.The sad reality is,even the church looks at family life and deals with surface topics.But if much could be studied concerning the home life then we would see change.

But I've since come to realise that each person has the responsibility to know  God's will for himself,since christianity is an individual thing.The sad thing is, even with family life programmes in the church, they still miss the point.You'll find out that mostly people talk about their experiences- and as much as that is good,we all need to know what God says,after all He is the author of marriage and families-it was His design.

The sad thing is,as much as Christians are getting into relationships-they still do not make God the counselor.His Word and the testimonies are replaced by other authors.Of course, there is nothing wrong with  reading how other godly Christians make it work- but God's Word must be the ultimate rule since it is a command and can help each family achieve God's ideal for family life.I believe if God's Word and Spirit of Prophecy were read and lived out,the world would have more Christians who are standing for truth and there would be families that represent the heavenly home.

I've also learnt that we have a poor view of what a godly courtship and a godly marriage looks like.I blame this on allowing the world to set standards for us. We are always told to not be unequally yoked as if that's the only thing.I believe more emphasis should be placed in the need for holiness in both the courtship and the marriage relation.Courtship,I personally believe,is not entered with the right spirit-which is to glorify God.Sometimes or many times it is,but then the couple starts relaxing and focus on themselves more rather than what God requires.And in the end,God's will is lightly regarded.Nothing wrong with being there for each other BUT not at the expense of God's will.

Courtship is often described as a stage where the parties involved determine whether it is the will of God for them to get married,but how can that be if the couple is NOT praying continually and studying together about marriage and raising children in the Lord?I now realise why the couple cotimplating the marriage relation should pray more;for God's leading and to know His will.We often get into these courtships with the mindset of "as long as we don't fornicate, kiss, hold hands,hug we are safe".And yes we are, but it's more than the boundaries.It's more about God and his desire for us to reach a higher standard.Even the courtship stage should encourage both parties involved to pursue holiness.So, it is not enough to be in a courtship or to be engaged to a believe who shares the same beliefs,but both parties have a responsibility to seek God's will and understand what marriage entails.

Sadly,many prepare for the marriage relation in the marriage itself.As much as SOP defines marriage as a school where there is continual growth,the preparation must be done before hand.Like the bride and the bridegroom plan and prepare for the wedding,there needs  to be preparation for marriage.It is not enough to compliment each other,after all you can compliment each other in sin,like Ananias and Sapphira did.If love for God and his will is not supreme,then it's all in vain.

My advice would be; couples really need to study the purpose of the marriage relation and adhere to its requirements.We are only safe when we take God at His Word.The males need to understand what their role is and the females also.And all this has been revealed in God's Word and SOP.I've often wondered looking at how certain couples raise their children if they have ever read Adventist Home and Child Guidance and other books. Of course it is not enough to read these,but we are to apply.As I read Child Guidance I realised the reason some children aren't christians is because the parents themselves aren't converted.So,there needs to be repentance too.

For example:I've learnt that no evil suggestions,whether by reading,hearing or seeing should be allowed in the home (child guidance) and this has to begin with me.I must avert my eyes from every evil suggestion and as much as it's a struggle-all for the sake of my salvation,my future husband and that of my children.It's deep.As much as the courtship relationship needs to be a process of getting to know each other,there needs to be time of getting to know God's will.If we are not influencing each other heavenward during  the courtship,what will change during marriage?

We need to look beyond the wedding day,we need to look beyond whether he can provide and if she's a good cook (and as much these are of great importance) , there needs to be a balance between the practical and the spiritual.What is the point of marrying one who is willing to provide but who doesn't fear the Lord?And we need the Lord every step of the way.As we continually seek His will and do it,He will work with us.

WE ARE IN A SPIRITUAL WARFARE AND WE ARE TO ALWAYS KEEP IN MIND-THERE IS NO TIME FOR RELAXING.EVEN WHEN WE HAVE GOOD TIMES,THEY SHOULD BE IN THE LORD!

#Learning and Reflecting   

"Born and raised in the church" does NOT equate to Christians :Part1

Lately, I've been trying to understand why some children who have been raised in Christian households and who have attended church from birth still turn out to be non-Christians or end up leaving the church.Looking at my own personal life,raised by a single mother I can account it to many things.

As much as I'm grateful for all that my mom has done for me and account my acceptance of God to a large extent on her,I still think there were two problems that could have been avoided to ensure that I accept Jesus from a young age.The first one is:"seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness" was outweighed by "all these things shall be added unto you".Being a single parent meant my mom had to provide for us:food,clothes,school fees and more and in the end the spiritual life was neglected.As much as my mom taught us the Bible and tried to live out according to the light she had received,I now realize she should have done more-because mothers are called to be teachers of the children. Our spiritual life was not only meant to be fed during family worship but even in daily duties Christ should have been the centre and she was supposed to put our spiritual needs before anything else.This does not come from me-I learnt this as I was reading Child Guidance by Ellen White.

Also my mom wanted to give us an education,even though it was according to the standard of the world because she herself didn't have the opportunity to have one.So,she always encouraged us to study hard and work hard.By God's grace we then attended an adventist school,even though my mom could rarely afford it.We did about 11 subjects (grade 5-7) and that meant even during vacation we had school work.And it was in these moments that mother encouraged us to work hard and so getting good grades become my central attention and God became secondary.At least I had the privilege to learn about God daily in this school and one of the subject I did was Bible Studies, so at least I still enjoyed reading the word of God.

As a result of the emphasis of education and me knowing that it would afford me a job one day so that I could take care of my mom,I ended up leaving the church to pursue my education.In grade 12 an adventist teacher encouraged me to attend Saturday classes that were offered by a certain organisation.I had argued with him that Saturday was God's day but through his persuasion and my deep desire to excel,I ended up going.Pity it was an adventist teacher who convinced me to go against God's command but I'm to blame since he never forced me.And in the end I did excel well but I had stopped going to church and I had lost interest in God's things. 

Secondly,we were not raised to "do all things to the glory of God".One thing I now consider a blessing is growing up without a TV-it wasn't really my mom's decision,we just couldn't afford it.But we'd go to our neighbours once in a while to watch TV.My mom loves reading,so she brought home loads of magazines and so as a young girl I was exposed to that environment.Although my mom cares little about fashion-and has always been modest in her dress,the magazines made me focus more on clothes and they influenced my understanding of what beauty was.So,I would spend hours reading about celebs stories and I chose these over house chores.I knew everything about celebs.In fact, I knew about 100 american celebs by head. You can imagine the evil I was exposed to,since this is plain idleness.We also had novels,and as someone who loves to read I spent most of my time reading them.No,both my mom and I spent time reading them.But my love increased more when I was in grade 10 .So,I'd spend school vacation reading and I especially loved romantic novels,even though there were other things I was exposed to while reading them.And as I look back at some of my past dealings, I realise to a great deal my actions were simply me living out all that I had read in these novels.

As I look back I realised mom didn't really cultivate in us a love for holy things and she didn't remove all that was not "holy,pure and true".She only started buying Spirit of Prophecy when I was around 16 and by this time I only had preference for magazines and novels and my school books only.I remember once trying to read the Great Controversy (I think) and I couldn't even finish a page.I just felt that the english was too hard to be understood-as if the one in the novels was simple.

And so these experiences have made me realise that growing in a Christian home doesn't neccesarily mean one will turn out as a Christian,unless every worldly thing is removed.If parents want to raise children who will live for God they need to remove every snare-TV,magazines,worldly music,novels etc and in all they do,they should consider whether it is of God or not.They need to love God and they need to consider him in every little thing and as they do this,they will grow and be examples to their kids.The sad part is,God cannot make up for these mistakes,even if the parents had light or not,the consequences are still there.And as I look at my upbringing,I can only say it's God's grace,my mom's teachings and the prayers my mom and others have uttered on my behalf. 

Lest I condone evil

This has been on my mind for months now.It's all about the pictures and statuses we often like on facebook.And I realize sometimes we can encourage people in sin.I personally have started to weigh every pic I like.It doesn't make sense to me to like a pic of someone showing off thighs-it comes across as double standards to me.Knowing that God disapproves and still liking the pic.How will I then share dress reform with the person when I've winked at them not adhering to it?To me personally,liking a pic means I like everything in it,not just because it's someone I love.And so I refuse to condone impurity by liking your pics.

And then there are instances where Christians will like a pic that doesn't glorify God.For example:a girl would upload a pic of herself and her bf lying on the same bed-unmarried bear in mind and we still like the pic.Aren't we putting a stamp of approval on that behaviour and celebrating it,when we know they shouldn't even be sharing a bed as an unmarried couple.I've come to realise that people thrive on likes-and although some people may post things without the desire for likes,some will do it for likes.Sadly the more we like,the more repetitive the posts and God is dishonoured in the process.

I personally believe whatever we like on fb either brings glory to God or it doesn't.And so let us be slow to like: especially when God frowns upon it,because we'll be encouraging people in evil.After all,you don't owe anyone likes,even if it's your closest friend.If it's wrong,it's wrong.Which has me thinking:is it even loving of us to like a pic of someone doing something contrary to God's law.A practical example would:someone drinking alcohol.I believe it's not.

"Therefore whether you upload a pic/write a status/whatever you do on social networks,do it ALL to the glory of God" 

Submission

I was listening to a presentation on woman ordination by Jennifer Arruda and she got me thinking and I've been blessed and chastined.Especially when she started talking about God's order of the family:the man as the head and the wife submissive.And the sad thing is,marriage is NOT after God's order these days.We've got wives who call for 50/50,who talk anyhow to their husbands and this is one thing I pray I never do to my husband.Can't imagine raising my voice to him-but I'm not there yet;but I know God will help me.

There's something sad about watching a wife speak anyhow to the husband.It's really demeaning and I pray that as women we may accept that men have been called by God to lead and we are t be submissive to them.We are not to raise our voices to them.But this is my thought:if we aren't submissive to God first,our brothers and our fathers and all male leadership in our lives,how will we respect our husbands?

I know of a wife who calls the husband by name.It might seem like a little thing,but now the kids grow up knowing the name of their father-personally I find this faulty.Xhosa women often refer to their husband as "taka..."...calling them as the father of their children.We need that back.Submission doesn't mean slave or inferior,but it's God's order.Hope these 2 quotes will do justice to the point  I'm trying to bring home.

"Acceptance of the divinely ordered hierarchy means acceptance of authority-first of all,God's authority and then those lesser authorities which He has ordained.A husband and a wife are both under God,but their positions are not the sane.A wife is to submit herself to the husband.The husband's rank is given to him by God,as the angels and animals rank are assigned,not chosen or earned.The mature man acknowledges that he did not earn or deserve his place by superior intelligence,virtue,strength,or amiability.The mature woman acknowledges that submission is the will of God for her,and obedience to this will is no more a sign of weakness in her than it was in the Son of Man when He said,"Lo,I come-to do Thy will,O God."~Elisabeth Elliot

"It is the woman's delighted yielding to the man's leading that gives him freedom.It is the man's willingness to take the lead that gives her freedom.Acceptance of their respective position frees them whirls them into joy"~Elisabeth Elliot

And every command is for our own good and joy!

We are NOT gods!

There's this trend going on amongst us Christians.For some reason,scary reason,we think that God has left it up to  us to decide whether his Word is worthy to be done or not and  we have the right to add/remove from His Word.But fearful is the judgement of one who adds/removes a part in God's word-he has no place in heaven.And I'm afraid that is what's going make us perish,if we do not start adhering to His Word regardless of how we feel,the pastor says or the church says.

There's this attitude that "the fact that he isn't against it/it's not written" means we can do it.But we forget that,"All scripture is given by inspiration of God,and is profitable for doctrine,reproof,for correction,for instruction in righteousness."~2 Timothy 3:16.So, all that we need to do is found in the Bible.We need not go and approach a pastor or a church,he has revealed all that pertains to His will in His word.

If God's Word is silent about a specific doctrine,then it's not up to us to make conclusions about it.We also are to be silent.If it's clear and specific,the wisest decision we can make is to adhere to it rather than to perish.My point is: we need to stop this "in my church" talk when God has revealed all in His Word.And if we are guided by the Spirit of truth when we read God's Word and if we come with a teachable spirit when reading God's Word,He will reveal his truth to us and there will be no confusion.The Word of God has always been correct and there is not confusion found in it because God is "not man that he should lie and is not an author of confusion".It all becomes confusing when we uphold "thus saith the pastor"/"thus saith the church" or we start upholding our own opinions higher than God's.

If we claim to be Christians:then we must follow God;not man's ideas-not man who've changed God's doctrines to fit their own circumstances or sinful ways.It doesn't matter if the most righteous man alive says it.Until proven in God's Word,then it's a hypothesis.

This is not the time to harden our hearts to what God has said because so and so is doing it/because I don't want my family to disown me/I'm afraid they'll laugh at me.Our only safety is in doing what God says and leaving the consequences with Him.Lest we forget:we are the creatures and he is the Creator!The invented machine never knows best than it's inventor.

Do it FOR God only.......and yourself

Luke 14:28-29King James Version (KJV)

28 For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it?

29 Lest haply, after he hath laid the foundation, and is not able to finish it, all that behold it begin to mock him,

This passage can be applied even in our daily lives and even in the Christian journey.And no-one could have said it better than Christ.I believe it would be wise for us to take heed to this advice even when making decisions concerning our Christian life.I personally believe it is not wise to rush into something-whether good-until we have a proper understanding of what it entails and the risks it comes with.

By this I mean,it is better for us to study a particular doctrine prayerfully before claiming we believe it or we accept it,lest we fall along the way and discourage many.Not that Christianity is about making claims of our belief over certain doctrines.And maybe that's the problem-these days we seem to claim instead of living it.

But back to my point.There's been 2 incidences where I've seen 2 sisters claiming to be following the dress reform.But after a few months they went back to their old clothes and started uploading recent pics where they had forsaken the dress reform doctrine.This is saddening :( and prayer I believe can avail much;but it has taught me that one should never follow a certain doctrine if it's not to please God.The moment you start living Christianity for others INSTEAD of God then you've completely missed it.It then becomes difficult to keep up because all that you do is a show and it's not genuinely coming from a heart that is converted and seeks to please God.

What's even sad is you now disappoint others who were looking up to you :( and some may conclude God's ways are not fair.So,study it for yourself and be convicted and ask the Lord to give you strength to carry it till the end.When you've studied for yourself then it's easier to even explain why you are doing it instead of saying "pastor so and so says this" or "the church says it".What happens when the same pastor comes back and says it's okay to wear knee length dresses all because his wife wears them?And what happens when the church compromises to the point where false doctrines come to the church?Our safety is doing what God says and doing it for him.

If you do it for him:even when piercing words are said,you'll not fall.Yes,it will hurt and discouragement will come;some will even misunderstand you and call you names BUT if doing God's will is your priority,even such things will not shake you because of the firm foundation you have.

And again some sisters fall into the trap of pleasing the bf to the extent that God isn't the reason for  doing it.But then what happens when you break-up?You go back to your old ways and you become a false witness.It's sad.As much as it's ok to try to please one another in a relationship-it all should be based on a "thus saith the Lord" because God's word is a solid foundation which cannot be moved and what a blessing it is to stand on God's Word.

Sad thing is some of us fall into the trap of seeking to be understood but that's the thing about Christianity:it can never be understood,unless one studies and accepts the truth for themselves.Look at Christ.Even his OWN brothers misunderstood him-even though they were of the same church.Christianity is not and was never about being understood.It's about living for the One who called you into it.When we choose God's word we cannot expect comfort and encouragement from the world,but from him who has called us.

  Let's soldier on children of the most high God!