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Purge Your Closet

Now is the time to give away anything you did not wear this last winter. The chances of you wearing it next winter are so slim that it is not worth the space it takes in your closet. Give your good items to a worthy cause; get them out of your house. You will feel the release of not having to look at things that you never wear.

Try on all your summer clothes. Do they fit? Do you still like them? Take a good look at your whites and light colors. Are they stained or dungy?

Before you add new clothes to your closet, get rid of everything you no longer like or want. 

Want more? Sign up for the Fashion and Faith Teleseminar.

Built Upon The Rock

You are God’s building, built upon the foundation of Jesus Christ.

So how’s your house? Is it steady, strong, a thing of beauty, welcoming others and showing them the way to build their lives on the gospel of Jesus Christ?

Or does your residence stand in disrepair? Maybe it has dirty windows and trash left lying around from the past? Do you have sin you need to confess? Do you need to do some cleaning?

Maybe the structure of your home has sunk a little on one side and your life leans too much in one direction. Do you have areas of your life where you are not spending enough of your time and you need to re-balance your life?

Possibly your foundation has cracks in it and you have doubts, lack of knowledge or have listened to false teaching. Join a good Bible Study in your local church or on your military base. Spend time in the Word of God to shore up your foundation with the Truth.

Perhaps your dwelling stands firm, but the lights aren’t on; there’s no electricity. Do you need to learn how to share your faith with others, and let your light shine?

Ladies, God wants us to grow, becoming more like Him. Will you let Him start or continue working in your life, do minor repairs, or even a complete remodeling project? The Master Architect is an awesome craftsman; a gentleman, loving, neat and tidy. Come; let Him reassemble you into a strong building with Christ and the Word of God as your foundation. (I Corinthians 3:9-11)

Fashion & Faith Teleseminar

Are you in a fashion rut and in need of a fashion makeover?

Do you wish you felt confident and pulled together when it comes to your appearance?

Have you been avoiding updating your look because you don’t know where to start?

If you have answered yes to any or all of these questions… then you should sign up for the next

FASHION & FAITH TELESEMINAR!

Fashion & Faith is taught by Fashion Consultant Joyce Zook. Joyce has over 25 years of experience in building a basic wardrobe, styling according to body type, accessorizing, color pallets, and so much more!

This course offers 4 one-hour SESSIONS

  (You will be provided an action guide for each class)

SESSION ONE: PURGE YOUR CLOSET- Renew your closet with what works for you!

SESSION TWO: PICK YOUR COLORS- Discover the most complimentary wardrobe colors for you!

SESSION THREE: PLAN YOUR WARDROBE- Learn how to mix & match the correct way!

SESSION FOUR: PLAY WITH STYLE- Gain knowledge in accessorizing and adding the “you” factor!

This class is only offered twice per year!

 sign up today and reserve your spot for the upcoming SEMINAR!

 FACEBOOK PARTY ON MAY 21, 2012.

 Find the Practical Christian Woman on Facebook Here!

Increasing Faith

When you need to hold on and keep believing God will fulfill His promises, let God increase your faith. Find one of His promises in the Bible which speaks to your heart and accept that as you as your means of solving your problem. Repeat the promise over and over to yourself every time doubts, fears, temptations or troubles come your way. Repeat your promise from God out loud and feel your faith grow as you learn to trust God.

For example, when bothered with fears or worries about your family trust this promise; Trust in the lord with all your heart and lean not unto your own understanding. Proverbs 3:5-6

F-Find a promise

A-Accept the promise as your solution

I-Implant the word in your heart

T-Think about the promise

H-Hear the promise

Fashion and Faith Teleseminar

Are you in a fashion rut and in need of a fashion makeover?

Are you afraid you will be the next prey of the “What Not to Wear” team?

Are you frustrated with today’s trendy wear and want a classic wardrobe that is ideal for your style and body type?

If you have answered yes to any or all of these questions… then you should sign up for the next

FASHION & FAITH TELESEMINAR!

Fashion & Faith is taught by Fashion Consultant Joyce Zook. Joyce has over 14 years of experience in building a basic wardrobe, styling according to body type, accessorizing, color pallets, and so much more!

This course offers 4 one-hour SESSIONS

  (You will be provided an action guide for each class)

SESSION ONE: PURGE YOUR CLOSET- Renew your closet with what works for you!

SESSION TWO: PICK YOUR COLORS- Discover the most complimentary wardrobe colors for you!

SESSION THREE: PLAN YOUR WARDROBE- Learn how to mix & match the correct way!

SESSION FOUR: PLAY WITH STYLE- Gain knowledge in accessorizing and adding the “you” factor!

This class is only offered twice per year!

 sign up today and reserve your spot for the upcoming SEMINAR!

DATE: JUNE 4-25

TIME: Mondays at 1 pm CST

SCHEDULE: Meets 4 times for one hour each

DATE: AUGUST 6-27

TIME: Mondays at 1 pm CST

SCHEDULE: Meets 4 times for one hour each

 

SIGN UP TODAY!

Priorities Matter Quotes

"Women often don’t take care of themselves because they forget, do too much for others or think it is selfish."

"Would we do anything kind or nice for someone else if we only did for them what we do for ourselves?"

"No one will simply hand you time to have fun, spend time with friends or develop your dreams & passions. You have to create it."

"There is peace in the yoke with God. If you’re tense, moving fast, shoulders are not relaxed; stop and seek Him." -Jim May

"Are you an introvert or an extrovert? It really depends on how you get recharged."

I Know I'm Right

“Confirmation bias is the tendency of humans to seek information that confirms an already held belief or opinion and to avoid or discount information that might contradict an existing belief or opinion.”

Let’s say you believe that where you live is absolutely the worst place. When this is your belief you look for things that are wrong. You pay attention to the buildings that need painting instead of the great friends you have met a church.

“When we're under the spell of confirmation bias, it's easy to miss turning points because we're stuck on our current belief or opinion and won't change even when we see contradicting evidence.”

Because all you can see is the negative, you miss the great parks and historical sites that are around your new location. Even when you learn something new and good you refuse to change your opinion.

“How do we overcome this pull? Here are two keys that could help:

1-Acknowledge that confirmation bias exists. Knowing that it exists helps us try to avoid falling into its trap.

2-Actively seek contradictory opinions.”

To change your view of your situation, you first have to admit you are biased. You really liked the last place you lived and this place is just different. 

Once you admit that it is not the same you can actively start looking for what is good in the new location. Ask others what they like about this place and what really neat things they have discovered here. Be open to new ideas.

Until you acknowledge that you are biased you will keep seeing things exactly the same.

  

Quotes taken from PAX Financial Group Newsletter, January 23, 2012

No Time For Really Living

No time for Bible Study!

You feel angry, frustrated and not at peace. The Bible says to be imitators of God, but how do you imitate God if you don’t know Him and what He does?  Believe what God says. Do what you know is right. Talk with God every day. Learn to follow Him. Study His Word and spend time with Him.

No time for your health!

It is hard to control your tongue when you feel worn out, tired or sick. Instead it is much easier for you to get angry, fretful and worried instead. When you get the rest you need, you won’t find it as difficult to speak words which build others up instead of harmful words. Take care of yourself and develop the energy to take care of those you love.

           

No time for your husband!

Frequent misunderstandings happen when you don’t spend enough time with your husband. Plan regular time to talk without the kids and do a fun activity together several times a month. Treat your husband like your best friend. Be polite and forgive him for what you wish he would do, but doesn’t. Meet your husband’s needs and see him shower his love back on you. 

No time for your children!

Arguments, backtalk and fights happen when your children clamor for your attention and discipline. Well defined rules allow your children to feel safe. Take the time to listen to your children and they know you care deeply for them. Find time for family fun each week. Make the sacrifice; spend time with these precious ones God has entrusted to you.

             

No time for your home!

Messes cause stresses. Your home is the place where you and your family rest, relax and play. Would Jesus feel at home living with you, or do you need to make changes in how you live? Take two minutes and clear off the first place you see. Make a weekly dinner plan and shop your plan. Organization and a little planning clear your mind and help you think on the good things in your life.

No time for yourself!

Do not harbor bitterness or anger against yourself. Instead renew your mind with the truth of who God thinks you are: His beautiful creation and precious child. That makes you infinitely valuable. Speak to yourself with words which build you up. Forgive yourself for the mistakes and errors you have made. Take care of yourself.

 

Say “No” to the things which cause your priorities to be wrong. Say “Yes” to God and the right things in your life.

See Ephesians 4:17- 5:2 for additional clarity on living a new life for God.

Good Sports

Amy & Stephanie Greene

Ages 15 & 13

   

This is written to soccer parents from their kids, but I think it really applies to all parents whose kids are playing sports.

Hi, all you soccer parents (and grandparents) out there! Wondering what’s the right way to encourage your kids on the field? Here are some tips from the players’ point of view.

1. We like it when you cheer, but don’t’ go overboard. No horns, no whistles, no crazy shouting. It’s distracting.

2. Please try no to coach us while we play. That’s the coach’s job. We trust our coach. You should too!

3. We totally know every mistake we make. You don’t need to remind us after the game or point out what we can do to improve.

4. Please, please don’t yell at the refs. Embarrassing!

5. Don’t yell at the other team, even if you think they‘re playing rough. It doesn’t help.

6. Most of all, be positive. Have fun and let us have fun too! When you love and support us, it makes everything better.

Guideposts, March 2010

What is a Teleseminar?

 A Teleseminar is a conference call or a presentation via phone!

It is a great way to participate in wonderful seminars without leaving the comfort of your home. You and other ladies around the world all call one conference call number at your scheduled class time. The seminar includes a topic discussion and Q&A session. These Teleseminars are practical with lots of tips and useful advice for your everyday life.  

As a participant you receive an Action Guide for the upcoming session by email. This enables you to follow along and participate in the discussion. The Action Guides include Action Steps to help you apply what you’ve learned in the seminar.

FASHION FREEDOM and FAITH

(Offered twice per year)

DATE: JUNE 4-25

TIME: Mondays at 1PM CST

SCHEDULE: Meets 4 times for 50 minutes each 

DATE: AUGUST 6-27

TIME: Mondays at 10AM CST

SCHEDULE: Meets 4 times for 50 minutes each

SESSION 1: Purge Your Closet

SESSION 2: Pick Your Colors

SESSION 3: Plan Your Wardrobe

SESSION 4: Play with Style 

PRIORIRTIES MATTER

DATE: SEPTEMBER 10-DECEMBER 10

TIME:  Mondays at 10 AM CST

SCHEDULE: Meets 2 times each month for 50 minutes each.

SESSIONS 1 & 2: God, Health & Husband

SESSIONS 3 & 4: Children & Home

SESSIONS 5& 6: Self & Ministry

SESSIONS 7 & 8: Balanced Priorities & Life with Priorities

CLICK HERE

FOR MORE DETAILS & TO SIGN UP TODAY!

(This Group Is Limited In Size)

Gray Areas

There are a few gray areas which the Bible does not address directly, but it does address in principle. When you reach one of those gray areas and are undecided if it is OK or not, consider these principles to help you reach a decision.

1.     Is it good for you? If it’s not, don’t do it.  I Corinthians 10:23

2.     Is it good for others?  If not, then don’t do it. I Corinthians 10:24

3.     Does it honor God?  If not, don’t do it. I Corinthians 10:31

4.     Does it offend others?   If it doesn’t then carry on. I Corinthians 10:32-33

Above all else, pray and seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit and of mature Christians He has put in your life.

Adapted from a sermon by Larry Andrews CBC Bulverde

Hope for Friendships

As we get on the road

Say goodbye yet one more time, 

I know Christ will lighten the load.

Hope for friendships new…

Joy exists when things look glum,

And you’d like to stick out your tongue.

It helps to smile a while

Memories of good times past

Times of joy, of fun and games,

When it didn’t seem to always rain.

Hope for friendships new…

The time is right.

Wait and expect God to move

He will bring it to pass

Maybe not this night,

But when I’ve changed anew.

Lessons come with heartache

Habits are fine tuned

Face my fears

Look them in the eye

Don’t sit and wonder why

What am I afraid of? 

Is it true?

No matter what

God will see me through.

Hope for friendship new…

By Joyce Zook

Anxiety and Fear

Are you plagued by anxiety and fear?

To calm my spirit and quench my fears I often adapt these eight points extracted from CDs by Steve Leavitt and Hope for Life Ministry. I believe when you apply these truths in your situation you will find the peace and power you need to move forward with your life.

1. Identify the thought: fear of____­­­­­____ (name your fear- insecurity, rejection, etc.) or I am obsessing about __________ (name your obsession-going broke, pleasing people, etc.) But that is not who I am. I am a beloved child of God.

2. I am not alone; I am not crazy; I am not going crazy.

For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love and self-discipline. II Timothy 1:7 NLT

3. If my thoughts run away from me, I run to a safe place before my feelings lead me astray. I seek biblically based counsel from my husband or one of my godly prayer partners. (Unsafe places include: the dark recesses of your mind or an emotionally based or legalistic church. Find a church which teaches grace and forgiveness.)

 In my distress I prayed to the Lord, and the Lord answered me and set me free. The Lord is for me so I will have no fear…Psalm 118:5-6

4. Controlling everything in my life is an impossible task. God will give me what I am able to handle. If life seems like more than I can manage, then I am attempting to take the responsibility away from God instead of trusting Him.

 So humble yourselves under the mighty power of God…Give all your worries and cares to God for he cares about you. I Peter 5:6-7

5. Nothing will ever separate me from God. I bask in the confidence of God’s love of me.

And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Romans 8:38

6. I attempt to differentiate between self condemnation and conviction. (Self condemnation is usually nonspecific with no specific guidance to correct the situation or I am not forgiving myself for something God has already forgiven.)

 Purify me from my sins, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow. Psalm 51:7

7. I give my fears and sin to God, the only One who can take them away. I confess them and accept God’s gift of grace. My sins are forgiven-it’s done.  

 But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us of all our sins I John 1:9.

8. I praise God in the midst of my fears. I accept where I am and trust God to carry me through.

I prayed to the Lord, and He answered me. He freed me from all my fears. Psalm 34:4

Bible verses are from the New Living Translation. The CD’s series is “Biblical Solutions to Anxiety, Depression, Stress & Fear.” hopeforlifeministry.com

Our Trip to Taiwan

Wild monkey on Monkey Mountain!

Lotus Pond

Getting around on a scooter!

A mud mountain in Gang Shan

Overlook of Kaohsiung City and the harbor

God is in Charge

One day I felt weighed down by all the obstacles and problems in my life and was praying. In my prayer I realized God was in charge. As I placed that thought up against each problem I thought I had, this is what He revealed to me.

God is bringing business opportunities as He sees fit

God brings the right people to me at the right time

God is helping me do what I need to do each day

God is directing which ministries, outreach and finished products I am able to get done

God knows how much time I have

God directs my words as I speak to others

God knows my physical limitations and helps me cope each day

God knows how much I can do for my husband, his ministry and work

God is bringing people to my husband who He knows can help build a ministry here

God helps me eat right when I go out as I listen and follow His direction

God helps me sleep in each situation, hotel or home where I am staying

God knows our needs and will sell our house at the right time

God knows the struggle I have and meets my needs as I trust in Him

God is in charge

Who I Was, Is Not Who I Am

Saying goodbye yet one more time

But as we get on the road

I know Christ will lighten the load.

Is there hope for new friendships?

Is there joy and when things look glum?

And you’d just like to stick out your tongue?

It helps to smile a while

Look at pictures of all the good times.

Times of joy, of fun and games,

Times when it didn’t seem like it always rained.

There is hope for friendships new;

I must wait

Expect His gates to open when the time is right.

He will bring it to pass, maybe not this fortnight,

But when He knows that I can be true.

Each time heartaches comes

A new lesson is to be learned

Or a bad habit big needs to be turned

It’s time to face my fears.

Look them in the eye

And not sit and wonder why?

What am I afraid of? Is it true?

No matter what, God will see you through.

Sometimes I just have to try something new, start doing it- putting pictures on the thumb drive, getting copies made at Wal-Mart, learning to use to the zoom and crop features, calling a company for information.

These things actually make me feel good about my self and the present. They take away the gloom. All these things I didn’t have time for when I was so busy this year, but now things have slowed down a bit.

Several friends have moved away and another will go soon. It is time to refocus, see what God has in store next. I’m getting together with a new group of ladies in a few days.

My husband has been encouraging me to write. Now is the time to get the ideas down in writing. I’ll take his encouragement as coming from God to lead me to new discoveries about who God wants me to be now.

I am not who I was.