September / October Issue 2005
"O, The Deep Deep Love of Jesus!"

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Our Full-Time Staff:

Miss Laura Beth Wagenschutz, Editor & Columnist
Miss Chaille Jacobson, Columnist
Miss Amanda Sedler, Columnist
Miss Deborah Brauer, Columnist
Miss Hannah Brown, Columnist
Miss Rebekah Wark, Columnist
Miss Gina Allison, Columnist
Mrs. Ruby Wagenschutz, Columnist
Mrs. Kristina Jossund, Columnist
Our Part-Time Staff:
Mrs. Dawn Wagenschutz, Columnist
Mrs. Johanna Spangenberg, Columnist
Ev. Benjamin Jossund, Columnist

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Greeting From the Editor...

Hello, ladies! I pray this issue finds you all well and busily serving the Lord. The Lord is so good. I pray that each of you is letting the Lord do a work in your life and allowing Him to speak to you and convict you of sins that, maybe, you are trying to hide. Yes, we are saved, but we still have a long way to go in becoming like Christ. Let us not simply accept Jesus for our future, but also accept Him for today.

Subscriber, Ashley Wasson, sent me this poem last week and I really enjoyed it. She did not know who the author was, but I want to share it with you all now...

His Will - My Will
I want my heart so cleaned of self
That my dear Lord can come
And set up His own furnishings
And make my heart His home.

And since I know what this requires,
Each morning while it's still,
I slip into my secret room
And leave with Him my will,

He always takes it graciously,
Presenting me with His.
I'm ready then to meet the day
And any task there is.

And this is how my Lord controls
My interest and my ills,
Because we meet at break of day,
For an exchange of wills.

I wanted to share this poem with you because it really impressed me, even though the language is so very simple. Just think about that last verse! "And this is how my Lord controls my interest and my ills, because we meet at break of day for an exchange of wills." It's not that we are giving up everything good and what we want to do for nothing. Our desires and wants are so pitiful when compared to what the Lord's desires and wants for us are! He has such hopes, such plans for us that we cannot even begin to imagine. If we will only take that special time each morning to "slip into our secret room", as the poem says and to simply give the Lord our silly little plans, He will pour out His glorious plan for our day and heap His love upon us. There is nothing more glorious in the Christian life, I believe, than being in the perfect will of God, each and every day! Not just one day, although each day does matter. Let us strive to be in His perfect will EACH day. Thank you, Ashley, for sending in this poem.

Now, several changes have been made since the last issue was sent out in July. First, due to her busy schedule and upcoming wedding, Miss Chaille Jacobson has had to give up writing 'An Encouraging Word' and 'Voices From the Field' and also her position as Assistant Editor. She will continue writing 'Quips, Quotes & Other Notes', however.

We do have a new columnist now writing for us who has taken over 'An Encouraging Word'. Mrs. Kristina Jossund will now be writing this article and I know you all will enjoy what she shares. Miss Kristina is a wonderfully sweet friend who is dedicated to the Lord. I have only know her a short while and am already impressed by her zeal for God and sincerity. Please read what she has written with care. Think about what you are reading and apply it to your life! I know you will receive a blessing and encouragement from her article as well as all the other articles in this issue if will only allow God to speak!

Several months ago my computer went haywire and deleted everything in my e-mail account - addresses and everything - so we have been busy trying to build up our subscriber list again and also working to rebuild our files. Long story short, we lost the booklet file "True Modesty, What Is It?" by Mrs. Johanna Spangenberg. We have been busily trying to obtain that file since then and have been able to do so only recently. Praise the Lord! Due to the extended period that we were without this article, we will begin again with it because we have so many new subscribers since we began that they would all be lost in the middle of a wonderful booklet! Anyway, I just thought I should let all of you know so that you are not wondering why we are repeating an article. Enjoy!

I believe that is all for now. If it isn't, I'll just add something to Bea's Bulletin or a 'P.S.' to this note. :0)

Well, let's get started! I pray you each will enjoy this issue and that you will allow the Lord to work in your life through something that is written here. Why don't you pray before you begin reading???

For Him,
Laura Beth, Editor

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Welcome to New Subscribers!

Our newest subscribers are:

Miss Katie Fuller, Miss Bethany Green, Mrs. Kristin Justis, Mrs. Becky Spieth, Miss Holly Walker, Miss Theresa Maas,
Mrs. Cheree Rothenberger, Miss Kristin Green, Miss Jenny Florio, Miss Christy Lahr & Miss Kati Mullen.

Welcome to Daughters of Faith, Ladies! We are so happy that you have joined us.
We pray that Daughters of Faith will be a blessing and an encouragement to you
each time you read it!

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Prayer Power

By: Miss Amanda Sedler

Due to the fact that she and her family are moving, Amanda was not able to write an article for this issue. Please keep her and her family in prayer as they are moving from Minnesota to West Virginia within the next few weeks. Also, please remember her brother Gary who is in Iraq right now!
He is in Army Intelligence, and the group he is with is all very anti-American, anti-Bush, anti-Army.
He has had permission to replace his Army badge with a National Guard badge (which branch seems to WANT to serve their country and are proud to do it!) and is in the process of getting permission to switch branches.
Please pray for him as he makes a stand, not only for Christ, but also for this country.

Requested By: Laura Beth Wagenschutz

Request: Please pray for the salvation of: Lisa, Sara, Liz, & Kathy.

Requested By: Miss Bethany Boomhower

Request: Please Pray for my Grandfather. He is 87 years old, has a lot of health problems, and is not saved. We worry about him. His name is George Moxlow.

(Editor's Note: Miss Bethany Boomhower is in Ireland right now, working with a missionary family. Prayer would be appreciated!)

Requested By: Mrs. Cheree Rothenberger

Request: My stepmother, Anna Mest is very sick, she has cancer and Alzheimers. We are not sure of her salvation. My father has said she has prayed. We do not know though.

Requested By: Miss Hannah Brown

Request: Please pray for my friend, Jim Hogan. He is going into the Army on November 24th, and leaving for Iraq in February. I also have 1 unspoken request. Thank you!

Requested By: Miss Rebekah Wark

Request: Please pray for my Uncle Len, my mom's oldest brother. While we were at camp, he had surgery for a tumor on his brain that turned out to be cancer. They haven't given him but maybe a year to live, most likely he doesn't even have that. Two of my great aunts also have cancer. They all claim to be saved, Praise the Lord!

ANSWERED PRAYER!!! ~ Thank you all for praying for Subscriber, Bethany Boomhower's, mom. She is now home from the hospital and things are going very well. **God is GOOD!**

ANSWERED PRAYER!!!~ James Brown, brother of Hannah Brown (What's Cooking?), is doing very well. The shots he had been taking to help him grow have done wonders. He is now officially as tall as a 'normal' 17 year old boy and you can hardly tell he has a disease! He is now taller that his dad, his mom, and his sister! He is taller than most of the ladies in our church...even with their heels on! The Lord is so good. Keep praying though!

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The Treasure Box

By: Miss Deborah Brauer
HE MUST INCREASE
"Then there arose a question between some of John's disciples and the Jews about purifying. And they came unto John, and said unto him, Rabbi, he that was with thee beyond Jordan, to whom thou barest witness, behold, the same baptizeth, and all men come to him. John answered and said, A man can receive nothing except it be given him from heaven. Ye yourselves bear me witness, that I said, I am not the Christ, but that I am sent before him. He that hath the bride is the bridegroom: but the friend of the bridegroom, which standeth and heareth him, rejoiceth greatly because of the bridegroom's voice: this my joy is therefore fulfilled.
He must increase, but I must decrease."
John 3:25-30

Have you ever come to a place in your life where you have a decision to make, and are not really sure what choice is right? Or perhaps deep down inside, you know what is right to do, but you end up making the wrong decision anyway? Well, recently the Lord gave me a principle from the passage of scripture above that has been very helpful in showing me the right thing to do in those situations, and has also been helpful in giving me a reason why I should make the right decision.

Several months ago I was doing my morning devotions. I was a little bit frustrated with some of the spiritual struggles I had been going through, when all of a sudden a verse of scripture jumped out and hit me "right between the eyes", so to speak. The verse of scripture I'm referring to is John 3:30, "He must increase, but I must decrease." Immediately the Lord began to work on my heart about this principle. I began to meditate and the Lord began to show me that the attitude that John had about his life is the same attitude I should have about all areas of my own life.

You see, all Christians have to battle with the flesh. We who are saved have been redeemed, but we still have a sin nature. It is so easy to allow the flesh to win the battle, and to satisfy our fleshly desires rather than to discipline ourselves to die to self and live for God. If, however, we keep in mind the principle of lifting the Lord up, and putting our desires away when they get in the way of our service to Him, not only will it help our service, but it will also help us draw closer to the Lord.

Probably the most difficult thing about this principle is applying it to our daily lives. It's easy to give mental assent to a good principle, but living it is another thing completely. Once we are aware of this principle we have the responsibility to live by it. The Bible says in James 4:17, "Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin."

I'm sure there are times when you have wondered about something that's in the "gray" parts of a standard. Perhaps it's a movie, book, or piece of clothing, which you think might be okay but are not sure. Perhaps you're doubtful about what to say to someone during a witnessing opportunity. If you get into the habit of asking yourself which things is going to lift up Christ the most, those decisions will become much simpler.

As with anything of value, this principle does not, unfortunately, automatically appear in our lives without any effort on our part. It takes a lot of work to form good habits in our lives, but if we ask for the Lord's help in living by this principle we will gain the blessings of becoming more like Christ every day.

In His Name,
Deborah Brauer

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**God & The Spider**

Sent in by Subscriber, Robin St. James

Hi! I forward this to you, not knowing if it is true, but truth IS stranger than fiction. I also know my God is in control of his many-legged creatures
and is able to do just such a thing and more when it is His will. HE IS WONDERFUL!

Along this line, my husband has added a page to our web site with the names of Jesus. It will sure make you think and probably praise.
Take a minute to look at it and meditate on Who He is. Remember that Jesus said that even though Martha was very busy for Him,
Mary had chosen the good thing which would not be taken from her: spending time with Him.

During World War II, a US Marine was separated from his unit on a Pacific island.
The fighting had been intense, and in the smoke and the crossfire he had lost touch with his comrades.

Alone in the jungle, he could hear enemy soldiers coming in his direction.
Scrambling for cover, he found his way up a high ridge to several small caves in the rock. Quickly he crawled inside one of the caves.
Although safe for the moment, he realized that once the enemy soldiers looking for him swept up the ridge,
they would quickly search all the caves and he would be killed.

As he waited, he prayed, "Lord, if it be your will, please protect me Whatever your will though, I love you and trust you. Amen"

After praying, he lay quietly listening to the enemy begin to draw close.
He thought, "Well, I guess the Lord isn't going to help me out of this one."
Then he saw a spider begin to build a web over the front of his cave.

As he watched, listening to the enemy searching for him all the while, the spider layered strand after strand of web across the opening of the cave.

"Hah," he thought. "What I need is a brick wall and what the Lord has sent me is a spider web. God does have a sense of humor."

As the enemy drew closer he watched from the darkness of his hideout and could see them searching one cave after another.
As they came to his, he got ready to make his last stand. To his amazement, however, after glancing in the direction of his cave, they moved on.

Suddenly, he realized that with the spider web over the entrance, his cave looked as if no one had entered for quite a while.
"Lord, forgive me," prayed the young man. "I had forgotten that in you a spider's web is stronger than a brick wall."

We all face times of great trouble and, when we do, it is so easy to forget that God can work in our lives, sometimes in the most surprising ways.
And remember: "With God, a mere spider's web becomes a brick wall of protection."

Rick & Robin St.James
Sluice Box Adventures
www.sluiceboxadventures.com

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Amazing Grace

This is the testimony of: Mrs. Cathy Baker
I recently heard Mrs. Baker give her testimony at a Camp meeting in Michigan and was so touched by it, that I asked her to share it with you all.
I know you will enjoy reading her testimony, but I sincerely pray that you will not only read it, but that you will also let it speak to your heart.
~ Laura Beth, Editor ~

My Testimony

I was born and raised in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. (That meaning a U-per to you trolls that live under the bridge). I was raised in the little town of Moran. A small community of a few hundred, where everybody knows everybody and everybody knows everything! Our small town was home to two Churches, the Roman Catholic Church and the Lutheran Church. How interesting, as my father was raised Lutheran and my mother was raised Catholic. I was raised in the Catholic faith and the catechism and religious ceremonies did not fall on deaf ears. I was scared to death that I would die and go to hell. I remember vividly the catechism class where I was told that you have two types of sins, one being mortal sin and the other venial. As you went along in life your venial sins would grow and leave marks on your soul. I remember running home to check out my soul thinking it was my belly. Sure enough there was the evidence of my sins. I wasn’t more than seven or eight years old and I believed that the “moles” on my belly were marks from my sins. Each week during our mandatory Saturday night bath, I’d look to see if my marks were getting any bigger. Sure enough, it looked that way to me. Oh this is funny now and I can joke, but looking back I can only imagine the fear that was put into the minds of innocent little children by the white habited nuns! I remember another time, one of punishment, as one of the nuns made my friend sit in the dark coat closet for a whole hour! I’m sure she was scared as it was terribly dark in there. I was absolutely sure that there were spiders and all sorts of critters running here and there and scaring the dickens out of her. The poor thing!

As I entered my teen years, my belief system changed. Of course, my Lutheran Father didn’t help things as he openly disapproved of many of the Catholic teachings. There were many heated discussions between my Mom and Dad. I found myself siding with my Dad. After all, who wanted to tell the priest all your faults? Dad argued with Mom about a lot of things that he said “weren’t in the bible.” Now I don’t know what bible he read and I can’t ask him now that he’s gone. I’m sure he knew a lot more than I did and it was easy to side with him over many of the issues that came up. Anyway, I thought “who needs religion”? And that’s where I ended up but not until finishing all of the mandatory sacraments of the Catholic faith.

At 18 I was on my own, doing exactly what I wanted. Yes, I committed all of the sins a wayward child commits. In my twenties, I conceived two children, was married to their father, eventually divorced and was left holding the responsibility of raising the children. When the children were in grade school, someone invited them to an Awana meeting. For awhile they attended the fellowships and meetings and I was invited by members to come and join them. Being so far from the Lord, I easily declined. I thought, “I just couldn’t become one of those Baptists. Just look at how they dress and how they act. Certainly I couldn’t live like that”!

So I wandered without the Lord, in and out of relationships, struggling yet miraculously surviving. In the spring of 1987, for the first time, I found myself in the unemployment line with little means to make ends meet. I vowed then that things were going to change. During one of my required trips to Sault St.. Marie to complete paperwork for the Unemployment Agency, I found myself pulling my car into the University Student Center at Lake Superior State University. There I received information that offered the opportunity to return to school. That December, I packed up my family and moved 55 miles away to a college community. It was a new life and we enjoyed the change. The children loved living on a big campus and I loved having this new found direction. The 4 ½ years went by quickly and I’m proud of those accomplishments. It was during my Senior year that my sister prompted two missionaries from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints to pay me a visit. They visited many times and with many different individuals, all wanting to help me anyway they could. I remember the day their plan of salvation was revealed to me. How could this be, I thought? After all I’ve done and everything I’ve been taught, I was well on my way to hell! But no, the missionaries promised me that Jesus would save me from my sins and that I would have my place in heaven. I gave myself to this hope. I did everything expected of a new "convert” and became a full fledged Stake Missionary. Over time, new and different beliefs were introduced. Many of the doctrines were easy to believe, but two very distinct ones troubled me. They bothered me so much that I left the church. I just couldn’t accept them as truth. I was broken hearted and disappointed at yet another religious failure. I just couldn’t get it right! But I still had my salvation that was promised me…didn’t I? At first I felt guilty about leaving, but then the world took over and I was back to my old nature again.

My forty’s are a time of growth and blessing. I grew in my professional life and held a respected position in the community. I really liked my life but I also knew that I didn’t want to live my life alone. I dated but still couldn’t get it right. I remember praying, “God, won’t you please send someone my way, I’m just not having any luck here. My way just isn’t working”! Little did I know that he would grant that request in three months and in another three months I’d be Mrs. Albert Baker. After a whirl wind romance, another move and a complete lifestyle change, my husband and I settled in the town of Boyne City. We’d purchased a small motel there and began working and working and working. After four years as managers, we hired a management team and moved into a new home. We moved March of 2004. Almost two months went by as we looked for a church to worship at. We searched the yellow pages and we found a number of Baptist churches in the area. (Did I tell you my husband was raised a BAPTIST?) We finally decided to give a church in Charlevoix a try. Much to our surprise when we arrived a little before 11:00 the service had already started. Now we realize it was probably Sunday school. Anyway, we didn’t despair, there was another Baptist church right down the road. We were in luck; people were entering the church when we pulled up. The service was good, the message was good, the people were nice and we thought we’d give this place a go. (Oh and thank goodness it was a “quiet” service, not one of those yelling, hand raising ones that would have scared the daylights out of me). We continued to attend and were convinced that this was where the Lord wanted us to be. We found ourselves in agreement with what the preacher said and we were comfortable with the church fellowship. Over the course of that year, I heard many preachers and as many invitations. I sat in my seat, all smug in the belief that I was a saved person. The Mormons told me so didn’t they? Anyway I thought, “the devil is just trying to steal my joy”. That’s how I explained any promptings or doubts that I had. I’d tell myself, “your okay, it’s just that ole’ devil again, playing tricks on you, trying to get you to doubt your salvation.” This happened every now and then. February 10, 2005 my husband and I heard a preacher speak about commitments. Commitments that were made in your youth or in a crowd of peers that perhaps weren’t really genuine. Being that the commitments were made for the benefit of others, not for yourself. Boy was I surprised to see my husband go to the altar and profess, “That’s me preacher, that’s me.” I was happy for him because we could both be in heaven. Right? Now we had a “new convert” in our house and I have to admit, it was awful at times. His zeal was overflowing and I, of course, came to know absolutely nothing about anything! This went on and on until the day that his eagerness for my salvation brought me to harsh words. I told him leave my salvation alone and to more or less “practice what you preach and quite being so righteous”! Well he did leave me alone and I sat smugly in my own little space. Although he didn’t “preach” anymore, we did talk about joining the church. One problem though, I’d have to be baptized…again. I’d already been baptized twice and didn’t see the need in doing this once more. Wasn’t once as an infant and once as an adult enough I asked?

Things went on, as well as could be expected, and we continued to be nurtured by our new church family. In June, the preachers’ wife called and asked if we might be able to put up some guest for the evening. Our spare bedroom was available and Pastor Butterfield and his wife from Westcoast Bible College were to be our guests. I have to tell you, I wanted to volunteer for housing the previous Sunday, but felt that our 25 minute drive was more than what guests would expect. The special service that Friday evening was wonderful. The singers were outstanding and our youth were given a great college opportunity for the future.

Once at home and after a bit of small talk, my husband was compelled to tell Pastor and Mrs. Butterfield all about our Christian backgrounds. They took note and were pleased with his profession but when it came to mine they were concerned. They listened intently about how I was raised and what I had practiced and how I’d received my salvation. Of course, it was my husband's rendition, not my own. I was able to tell why I’d left the Latter Day Saints group and why I didn’t believe some of the things they had told me. It was then that Mrs. Butterfield asked the most important question, “Do you know that they don’t believe in the same Jesus as we do”? She explained the differences and I was stunned. She showed me in Matthew 7:22-23 that the Lord said “Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity”. I’d heard these verses before but never felt that they applied to me! We talked for a long while, way past midnight. Pastor Butterfield asked me to pray about what had been said pertaining to Jesus.

Usually my prayers begin with gratitude and praise. This time I went right to repentance. I remember saying that I was sorry, that I didn’t know if the Jesus who died on Calvary was the same Jesus that I’d worshipped but if He could somehow tell me, in someway show me, I’d like to know. I wept, so afraid. I’d never felt so close to hell my whole life. I wanted his forgiveness so much. As I lay there crying, I heard a quiet gentle voice tell me in my heart and in my head, “Welcome home!” Not just once but five times! Over and over, he spoke to me and assured me. I could hardly believe it. I cried in gratitude and finally found sleep but in the morning I was still concerned over what happened. I spoke with Pastor Green that Sunday morning and told him that I wanted to share what I’d learned from the Butterfields and what had happened but would do so at a later time. Again, during the evening service, I wanted to share my thoughts but felt something stop me. By that Monday afternoon, I asked my husband to see if the preacher would come to our home. The date was June 13, 2005. After telling our preacher my story and coming to an understanding, I knew I was still lost. I prayed and I repented. I told Jesus how unworthy I was and what a terrible sinner I’d been. I pleaded with Him to please save me from hell and to come into my heart. Afterwards my feelings were ones of quiet. It was then that the little voices completely stopped. Since that day, not one little voice has been heard! The rest is history. I didn’t wait until that Sunday for baptism but was baptized that Thursday, June 16. We also requested membership that evening and were accepted by the church.

What joy has been in my heart ever since! I cannot put into words the gratefulness I feel. Nor can I tell you of all the tears that I’ve cried since. The Lord tried so hard to show me the way, yet I just couldn’t get it right. Time and time again I refused his offer. The amazing thing is that He never gave up. My Lord kept feeding me and feeding me until I finally saw what He wanted me to see. I needed to repent of the things He wanted me to repent of. There are no more doubts and no more questions, only submission. I can’t love Him or thank Him enough! Neither can I thank all the people that had a part in my salvation. I know that there were many prayers said on my behalf and I’m so grateful. I can only pray that if you’re reading this and if you’ve heard those same little voices, it’s the Holy Spirit telling you that something’s not right. Don’t let the devil tell you otherwise and steal your soul. Don’t let him tell you that everything is okay because maybe it’s not! The devil is a master of lies and he danced in my path for far too many years. But he’s not dancing anymore! Oh no, the real Master knows me now and He also knows you and He knows your heart. Why not give Him your heart today? God’s plan is so simple and yet I failed to see it until now. Don’t make the same mistake I did. Don’t wait any longer. Only heaven knows how close I was to hell. As I contemplate all the marvelous ways the Lord brought me here, I am overwhelmed with his grace. Oh how I love Him so! I hope you do too! If you’re a saved Christian - please pray for me. Pray that I’ll stay strong, and that I don’t quit on the Lord. Please pray that He’ll use me in His honor and that He’ll do great things through me as I strive to serve Him, our Lord and Savior, each day. Catherine Baker, July 8, 2005 (10)

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There Is Reason to be Joyful

By: Miss Rebekah Wark

Hello Ladies! Summer is over; can you believe it? This year has just flown by so quickly! Are you ready for school to start? I think I am, but I'm really not sure. :0) Anyway...on with business. Hey, what happens if you get scared half to death twice??? Just a thought... :0)

In Proverbs 19:5, the Bible says, "A false witness shall not be unpunished and he that speaketh lies shall not escape." I just came back from camp and it was great. Brother Kyle Stevens was the main speaker and he did a wonderful job. He preached one night about 'sneaking around'. Every person he used in his illustrations (none of them were imaginary) got into trouble because they sneaked around, doing things they shouldn't. Most used the Internet! The Internet can be so dangerous. I know it can be used for good... doing research, things like that, but we don't even have it at our house because of the risk. Be careful what you do! God does not bless those who sneak around, doing things they know they shouldn't. It may seem for a while that they are prospering, but in the end, they will be sorry. Numbers 32:23b says, "Be sure your sin will find you out."

How do we prevent this tendency to 'sneak around' in our own lives? The answer is simple, and it is the answer to most of life's problems...read your Bible, talk to God, find His will for your life and follow it! Be willing to be willing to do what God wants, instead of what you want. (And, no. I didn't accidentally type 'be willing' twice. Read it again!)

With A Grin,
Bekah Wark

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The Hope Chest of Proverb 31

By: Miss Gina Allison
Practical Plan Program

“She is not afraid of the snow for her household: for all her household are clothed with scarlet.”

Proverbs 31: 21

A wise person made a simple and yet profound statement, “If you prepare for the future, you won’t have to worry about it.” Why do we worry? Or even better, what do we worry about? Anything unknown or unprepared for! The Proverbs 31 woman didn’t worry. This verse says she is “not afraid.” What does it mean to be afraid- to be fearful of, to worry about, to have concern? This woman is none of these things, why? Because she has a practical plan program instilled in her heart and household.

The next item to add to your “hope chest” is a practical plan program.

The Bible tells us several times to consider the life of the ant. Ants are diligent, but for one purpose, to prepare for winter. Proverbs 6: 8 says, referring to the ant, “Provideth her meat in the summer, and gathereth her food in the harvest.” The ant knows when winter comes they will not be able to gather food and they need to be prepared or they will all perish. Just like the ant prepares for hard times, according to the example of the Proverbs 31 woman, so must we.

1. A Practical Plan Program Provides Peace in Prosperity or Poverty

Practical Plans portray two specific character qualities- Security and Contentment

Security is simply freedom from danger, fear, anxiety and want.

Contentment is freedom from care or discomfort because of satisfaction in present circumstances rather than fretting about the future or desiring something different or better.

Security brings contentment. It is hard to be content if you are living in fear or

constant chaos. A contented home is also a secure home, because everyone is settled and ready to weather difficult storms. There is no fear in contentment. I like this quote by Stanley C. Allyn, he said, “There is no use worrying about things over which you have no control, and if you have control, you can do something about them instead of worrying.”

Worrying never accomplished anything worthwhile. It causes insecurity and discontentment. Worrying destroys homes, families, and lives. Worrying sends people to the mental hospitals or to shut themselves into their homes away from people and away from dangerous situations. Danger and death are all around us, it’s a fact of the fall and of life, but we can not hide from it. We can only prepare. Our world is filled with car collisions, plane and train wrecks, tornadoes, floods, earthquakes, hurricanes, avalanches, forest fires, fire accidents, bankruptcy, murder, theft, if I continue this will be one scary list. It’s easy to see we live in a fallen, sinful world. The only way to continue living in such a world is to be like the Proverbs 31 woman, not afraid of ____________ (you fill in the blank), because we are prepared. We will look at how you can prepare in the next section.

Listen to what W.R. Inge says about worry, “Worry is interest paid on trouble before it falls.” A Christian’s home should be one of security and the family should be content. First of all, our trust needs to be in the Lord. Proverbs 127, verse 1 says, “…except the LORD keep the city, the watchman waketh but in vain.” The next verse is about worrying, “It is vain for you to rise up early, to sit up late, to eat the bread of sorrows: for so he giveth his beloved sleep.” Though we trust in the Lord that does not mean we should not prepare for it. Trials and troubles come to the saved and the lost. Our faith is not a blind faith. This attitude is like stepping off a skyscraper and hoping you’ll walk away with a splinter. We are to “Never confuse worrying about tomorrow with planning for tomorrow.” (Unknown) That’s why this is called a practical plan program. We are to practically plan for the unknown future. Now, let’s take a look at a woman who practically planned for an event 120 years before it came to pass.

The Practical Planner

In Genesis chapters 6-9, we read the story of a nameless woman. God does not give her name, in fact very little is ever mentioned about Noah’s wife, but he does give us a glimpse of this woman’s faith and character. The Bible never mentions her faith, but we know she must have had great faith. Her husband was building a giant boat in a land where it had never rained, miles from any water. He was the only man in the whole world to hear God speaking to him. Today, we would have declared this man insane and put him in a mental hospital! Think what she must have suffered. Her friends would have mocked her, maybe encouraged her to find a new man, one more mentally stable. But through all of that, Mrs. Noah stayed beside her husband. She worked and sweated to help her husband fulfill God’s command. God only gave His instructions a little at a time. She had no idea what would happen next. 120 years passed. That’s a long time to second guess, but we are never told if their faith faltered. Mrs. Noah must also have raised her sons to be godly men, because God allowed them on the ark. They never stopped working either. No one knew how long they would be in the ark. Think of the amount of food it would take to feed everyone. Many believe the animals were put into hibernation, if so that would have cut down on much of the food needed, but still, 8 people can eat a lot of food in a year’s time. They weren’t allowed to eat the animals. Growing and gathering food was needed. We cannot fathom the miracles God must have done while this family was on the ark. Remember, they didn’t have refrigeration, and the food they grew or gathered the last year before getting on the ark would also be needed to feed the family day by day. During those years, Mrs. Noah must have continually planned for the day they would enter the ark, exactly what they would need and how to keep it fresh while floating in that big boat. How would the fruits and vegetables stay edible? Her thoughts may have turned to once the flood was over. Where would they live? What would it be like without the other people? How many fields would they need to plant the next year? How long would it be before the animals produce offspring? How would she make the clothing with only seven sheep? How long before she could gather flax or silk? How would they build their house until the trees were tall enough? Maybe she could sew material together and make tents. Mrs. Noah probably thought about all these things. Mrs. Noah was a practical planner. She made these plans, so after the flood they could put these problems in the past.

2. Practical Plans Put Problems in the Past

The second half of this verse in Proverbs 31 says, “… for all her household are clothed with scarlet.” At first, it didn’t make sense to me. What did the color scarlet have to do with preparing for winter? So I did some research.

Scarlet comes from the scarlet insect (coccus ilicis) which forms lumps on Evergreen oaks. The color was extracted from this insect’s eggs. In this verse it is not only talking about the color, but one of the meanings of this word is “double thickness.” It was also considered a respectable color, one worn by royalty and the well off. So in this verse scarlet symbolized warmth- the retention of heat and a stately appearance. The color red also had to be double dipped using considerable time and money.

Elisabeth George, in her book Beautiful in God’s Eyes, imagines it this way. “Rising early one morning, this oh-so-beautiful-in-God’s-eyes woman turns her prayer concerns to her family. As she lifts each of them to God in prayer and considers ways to express love to them, she grabs her “to do” list and jots several notes to herself: 'Prepare for winter. Get wool. Locate some red dye. Spin yarn. Weave fabric. Make winter coats.' She will bless her family with the winter clothes they need.”

Notice this work extends to her entire household. During Bible times this would have included not only her husband and children, but also elderly parents, married children and grandchildren, orphaned nieces and nephews, widowed relations, and of course servants. This woman knew to prepare for winter; her entire family would need new coats. She had to plan this in advance if they would be ready before the snows fell.

In "Daybreak Discipline" we looked at planning for the next day, but now we want to look at planning for next week, next year, and for years to come; preparing for the unknown. The Proverbs 31 woman did not know if the winter would be a mild one or a long one, but that didn’t matter, she was prepared just the same. So how can you prepare for the future as a young lady?

· Learn to keep things in order. Files and records of all kinds should be kept in a particular place so they can be found easy in case of emergency or proof. You never know when you might be relieved to find you kept certain information. Things like receipts, bank records, and medical records… the list goes on.

· Learn to control finances while still single. You may not marry a wealthy man, and if you are used to spending and spending you could make him go bankrupt. Develop a budget even with your own money. Learn to save now. You could also begin saving money so when trouble comes in the future you may be able to help your husband.

· Take a Red Cross first aid class. These classes are only a few hours long and they teach you what to do in case of a medical emergency. The knowledge you gain could one day save someone’s life or even your own.

· Mark events on the calendar ahead of time. Many things happen on a monthly or yearly basis, like bills, birthdays, anniversaries, car inspections, and reconciling your checking account. If you mark church, school, or family activities, then you won’t over book your schedule. You’ll be able to better manage your time.

· Have a prepared purse- Safety pins, rubber bands, band aids, earring backs, pads or tampons, a hairbrush, lipstick, a small bottle of perfume or body splash, deodorant, cell phone or calling card, a list of emergency numbers, a book to read, tracts, mini toothbrush and toothpaste, breath mints, a fingernail file, anti-bacterial hand wash or wet wipes, ponytail holder or barrette, and extra house key. You have probably experienced a time when some of these things could have come in handy.

Determine future needs and prepare for emergencies. Look at the recent hurricane and flood in New Orleans...people weren’t prepared "just in case". How many times has that happened to us? We aren’t prepared for a heavy snowfall, or for a flood, or for an electricity outage, or the husband/father losing his job for unexpected reasons. Check the batteries in smoke alarms on a regular basis. Keep a list of emergency numbers in an accessible place. Have an evacuation plan in case of a fire. During the winter keep a snow shovel and something to melt the ice handy. Be sure to have candles and matches or flashlights in case of power outages. Keep a couple days worth of canned food stored on a shelf or in the cabinet as well as several jugs of water. These are all ways you can prepare for difficult times.

Proverbs 27:1 says, “Boast not thyself of tomorrow; for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth.” The key to a practical plan program is balance. We have seen how the woman from Proverbs 31 prepares for the future and how you can prepare for events in your future, but we must never get so caught up in planning that we forget to be flexible and let God direct our lives or forget to trust in God to supply for us. Remember the words of David in Psalm 112: 7, “He (She) shall not be afraid of evil tidings: his (her) heart is fixed, trusting in the LORD.”

*SMILE* "And the Lord Called Him Home!" *SMILE*
Dr. Tom Wallace tells of a pastor visiting a home. Suddenly the door flew open and little Willie came racing in yelling, "Ma! Ma! Look what I've got!" He was holding aloft a dead, bloodied rat of no small size. Excitedly, the lad began giving the gory details of his triumph, saying, "I found this old rat and grabbed a big stick and beat him and clubbed him. Then I got a rock and smashed him and beat him some more. Then...I," and for the first time he glanced up and saw the preacher listening intently. Suddenly, the lad's fierce, scowling countenance became meek, and his manifestation of toughness melted like fat in the fire. His voice lowered to a tone of tenderness and piety as he concluded his story, "...and then the Lord called him home!"

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Quips. Quotes. & Other Notes

By: Miss Chaille Jacobson
The following poem was sent in by subscriber Micah Wood. She sent this after I sent her a booklet entitled "Stay In the Castle" which we have spoken about in previous issues of Daughters of Faith. If you are interested in getting a copy of this encouraging booklet about purity, please contact Laura Beth at: wagentrails@juno.com Thank you!

New Start

Shannon Kubiak ~ edited

I come to the altar with no Isaac to bring,

Just wanting to be loved and with hope for a ring.

I have waited and worried, I have failed to trust,

So take my desire and teach me as You must.


All alone before You, my heart I freely spill,

With laughter and tears, please, my empty vessel fill.

I am looking no longer for a handsome man,

But now to You, Lord, and what for me is Your plan.


I am gifted and growing, I want to serve You,

Just show me Your way as I seek to follow through.

And if alone You want me, for the years to come,

Isolate me and teach me what is to be done.


I can’t fight You any longer for I am weak,

I am done with fool’s gold, and real treasure I seek.

I want You, Lord, to put a sparkle in my eye,

I want You as my focus and not any guy.


But even as I say this, part of me holds back,

Show singleness as a blessing, not an attack.

Lord, help me not to feel worthless, unblessed, alone,

Help me to throw my cares at the foot of Your throne.


As You want me to wait, Lord, please hold onto my heart,

Help me to keep it from those who would tear it apart.

As I lay my desire and hope at Your feet,

Help me to be honest and my promises meet.


Help me in loneliness to focus on the Cross,

And when I feel left out, let me count it as loss.

I don’t want to struggle, I am too worn to fight.

Help me to keep trying and to do what is right.


Remove my jealousy and replace it with joy,

Fill my thoughts with You, O Lord, instead of a boy.

On Your altar, my God, I place my desire,

I ask that my sacrifice would be burnt with fire.


Please accept it, for it is all I have to give,

Help me to let go this bondage and truly live.

Take all of me, Lord, even when I am opposed,

Help me to trust in You, the One who always knows.


On my knees I fall, O Lord, with tears on my face,

And I ask only that You’d meet me in this place.

Altars are for blood shed, so Lord, here is my heart,

Take it from me, my God, and grant me a new start.


"If you discover you are full of yourself, you are empty. When you admit you are empty, then you will be filled."

"Some people use the church like a refrigerator: to preserve themselves as they already are. God wants the church to be more like a toaster: heating us up and moving us out into service."

"Anyone God seeks to bless and use, the Devil seeks to destroy."

Do you have a favorite poem, saying, quote or thought? Send it in! Don't be shy now...

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True Modesty, What Is It?

By: Mrs. Johanna Spangenberg

Often, young ladies wonder “What really is modesty?”, “Where do we draw the lines on what is right and what is wrong?”, “Must I be frumpy in order to be ‘godly’?”, “Can’t I be stylish and modest at the same time?”. These are good questions, and it is only right to search for the truth on this controversial subject. Yet we must have a teachable spirit and be willing to accept whatever GOD says about our clothing ... and our spirit (the true inner man ~ “lady”). We must be willing to do exactly what HE wants of us, or else we will be accountable someday to God for “holding the truth in unrighteousness” (Romans 1:18), which is serious. If we clearly see and hear the truth, yet walk away unchanged, then the book of James calls us a “hearer” but not a “doer” of God’s Word. Let us try to be obedient daughters of the Lord and keep our hearts open to what He wants to teach us.

Take what you will in this study, but whatever little lesson you may find, please try to apply it to your daily life, and see what a difference it makes in your heart and attitude. It is my desire that someday you may be able to look back and see how the Lord directed you in this area of modesty. May you one day be able to hear those sought-for words, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.” (Matthew 25: 21,23) Let’s strive to live for the Lord’s glory and live like the young ladies God would have us to be. Are you faithful in the little, yet important, issue of modesty?

What does the Bible say about modesty?

1st 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.

¤ What is modest apparel?

Orderly, decent clothing that is both well-arranged and in good taste.

Clothing that does not draw attention to the wrong parts of our bodies. The focus of anyone’s attention needs to be on your face, not other specific areas. Anything and everything you wear should point to your countenance, specifically, your eyes.

The countenance reveals the real you. Could it be that some want to steer attention away from their face because of its revealing nature? (Isaiah 3:9) Is it possible that some young ladies don’t want others to see what is really in their heart? God says our countenance reveals our inner being.

Modest apparel must obviously be something that honors God and gives HIM all the glory.

¤ What is shamefacedness?

Showing modesty : bashful; downcast eyes (not boldly or brazenly staring into the eyes of every boy you meet, but rather being humble); an attitude of honor, modesty, reverence, regard for others, respect.

¤ What is sobriety?

The quality or state of being sober; common sense, sound judgement; calm, earnest, thoughtful, serious, soundness of mind, self-control. (Titus 2:4) Not following after the extremes of the current fashions of the day.


¤ What kind of “clothing” is most important to God?

Good works (Matthew 5:16; Acts 9:36; Ephesians 2:10; 2 Timothy 3:17; Titus 2:14; Titus 3:8; Hebrews 10:24; 1 Peter 2:12).

God sees everyone’s heart (1 Samuel 16:7), and He would much rather have your heart look pretty than the outside of you. Someday your body will die and be buried, but it’s the real you – inside, who will live forever. So it is more important and becoming/pretty if you have a clean heart and a life that pleases the Lord, after all He’s the only One whose opinion will matter in eternity. [Have you ever stood in front of your mirror and asked, “What do you think, Lord? Does this outfit please You?”] Truly God sees our hearts, but if we are teachable, read His Word faithfully, and want to do what is right, then that attitude will result in a change on the outside that other people also notice.

1st Peter 3:2-4 :

2) While they behold your chaste conversation coupled with fear.

3) Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel;

4) But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.

¤ What is chaste conversation?

In this context, “Conversation” means lifestyle.

“Chaste” primarily implies a refraining from acts or even thoughts or desires that are not virginal; self-control of one’s emotions; full of purity not only in actions but more importantly in one’s thought life.

[Have you ever heard the saying “you are what you think”, or how about the verse that says “As he thinketh in his heart, so is he” (Proverbs 23:7)? If you are not pure in your thoughts, eventually you will physically do something impure. Remember, your clothing reflects how you think in your heart.]

¤ What is adorning?

To adorn is to enhance the appearance of especially with beautiful objects; to enliven or decorate as if with ornaments.

¤ God says what part of us is more important to Him than how our hair looks, what jewelry we wear, or how nice our clothes are?

“The hidden man of the heart” ~ the real you. Is that lady in your heart pleasing to the Lord?

Peter is saying that godly young ladies should not try to attract men the same way that the world tries to attract them. Many worldly women try to catch a man’s eye by the way they adorn their bodies.

This verse is not saying that you may never wear any makeup or jewelry or pretty dresses. The key here is moderation. Wear those things for the right reason ~ not to draw attention to yourself, but rather to look more pleasant and be a testimony for Christ.

¤ In the sight of God, what ornament is of great price (worth more than any outward jewelry or clothing)?

A meek and quiet spirit.

Meekness ~ a calm temper of mind, not easily provoked; the quality characteristic of humility when coupled with gentleness. The meek person not only does not threaten or challenge others but accepts others openly and confidently. Jesus set the perfect example of a meek spirit.

Quietness ~ harmony, concord, security. A deep peace within the spirit. The tranquil state of a soul assured of its salvation through Christ, and so fearing nothing from God and content with its earthly lot, of whatsoever sort that is.

Deuteronomy 22:5:

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.

I once heard a preacher say, “Young ladies, God has never changed His mind about modesty! I don’t care what your culture is, or what your culture looks like. God is the same yesterday, today, for eternity, and He has never changed His mind about modesty!” How true.

Often ladies and girls read this verse and rather than simply accepting what God says and applying it to their daily lives, they’ll come up with all kinds of excuses:

— “That was a long time ago, and not for ‘today’s woman’.”

— “God was talking to the Hebrews, not me.”

— “Back in those days, men and ladies both wore robes, so I guess this verse just means I shouldn’t wear a man’s robe in public” (it sounds outrageous, but someone actually told me that).

— “This verse doesn’t specifically say that I can’t wear pants.”

— “Well, God hasn’t convicted me personally about not wearing pants.” [If He says it in His Word and expects us to obey, yet we don’t feel convicted, that’s not God’s fault.]

— “But my pants weren’t made to be worn by a man anyway . . . they’re custom-made for women, so it’s okay for me to wear them.”

— “If I look ‘religious’ then why would anyone want to listen to me? I would have a better opportunity to witness to someone if I look like them, then they won’t feel like I’m trying to be any better than them.”

— “Pants are so comfortable.”

— “I can’t do hard work in a skirt.”

The list goes on and on. Now, don’t jump to any conclusions that I’m judging you personally; I know many ladies all across the States who wear pants and feel that there’s nothing wrong with it. Honestly, I consider some of them to be my dearest friends here on earth and they truly love the Lord. Yet I can’t help thinking that though their heart seems right, they’re missing out on a big blessing by not accepting this particular verse in their daily lives. The Lord wants to bless and use us so much more when we’re yielded completely – without reservations – to Him in this area of modesty.

Thinking on this verse, we come to the conclusion that God made a man a man and a woman a woman. Why should anyone want to confuse the two when God made them distinct? Can you imagine a beautiful lady desiring to look and act like a gruff and rugged man, or a strong man wanting to carry a purse around on his arm and paint his nails red? You probably laughed (or said, “Gross!”) at the second illustration, but the previous one is just as contradictory in God’s eyes.

In God’s perfect plan He made the man the stronger sex and the lady the weaker vessel. Now, when we hear that word “weaker”, our pride tends to rear up, doesn’t it? Yet, here’s where that meek and quiet spirit comes into play. Learn to yield to the Lord in your heart, and life will be much more simple when it comes to yielding in other areas. Accept God’s way: by dressing modestly, you can show others that you have submitted your will to God and you don’t mind being 100% TRUE LADY.

Let us think clearly here: The Bible says lying is wrong (Deut. 19:18,19), cheating is a sin (Deut. 19:14), rebellion (Deut. 21:18-21) and adultery (Deut. 22:22-24) are also wrong. We have no problem agreeing with these matters, yet we try to throw out this one particular verse that speaks against cross-dressing. Is this consistent? Take what God says literally and live accordingly ~ you’ll never be more at peace, resting in the knowledge that your spirit and lifestyle please the Lord!

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Nana's Notebook

By: Mrs. Ruby Wagenschutz


Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath
blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ.
Ephesians 1:3

Teachers of small children often ask their pupils to name things for which they are thankful. They will nearly always come up with a long list of material things: their house, their parents, their toys, their food, etc. As born-again Christians, we are recipients of unnumbered "spiritual" blessings - "spiritual" being defined by Webster as not tangible or material, but being concerned with or affecting the soul. Certainly, we are thankful for the eternal salvation that is ours because Christ shed His precious blood on Calvary for our sins, but how often do we think about, or take advantage of the other "spiritual" blessings that are ours in Christ?

I have heard preachers say that Christians are often impoverished because we do not realize or embrace the blessings God wants us to have. I'm going to mention just a few that have occurred to me.

Prayer. "And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive." Matthew 21:22
Acceptance. "But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him." Acts 10:35
Fellowship. "That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that he also may have fellowship with us, and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ." I John 1:3
Forgiveness. "But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin." I John 1:7
Guidance. "And the Lord shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul in drought, and make fat thy bones: and thou shalt be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters fail not." Isaiah 58:11
Dedication. "I beseech you therefore brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service." Romans 12:1
Separation. "Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing: and I will receive you." II Corinthians 6:17
Transformation. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God." Romans 12:2
I'm sure you have thought of many other scriptures concerning these spiritual blessings which I have not mentioned here.

Many of these spiritual blessings require some action on our part, but I thank God for Isaiah 41:10: "Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness."

Are you thankful for these spiritual blessings, or perhaps thought of others I have not mentioned?

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What's Cooking?

By: Miss Hannah Brown

Hello again! I hope you all are doing great. I am doing ok myself. James is doing awesome!! He is now three inches taller than me, so we know for sure that the shots are working. Thank you all so much for your prayers!!! Keep them coming!!!!!!!

I hope you all have been enjoying the recipes we've given you...I just found a new one, so I want to share it with you now. It's called:

Chocolate Drop Cookies

1/2 cup Margarine
1/2 cup Shortening
1-1/2 cup Sugar
2 eggs
3 squares chocolate
3-1/2 cup flour
1 tsp. baking soda
1 cup milk
2 tsp. vanilla

Combine margarine and sugar and beat in eggs. Add melted chocolate and the rest of ingredients, alternating flour and soda mixture with milk and vanilla. Drop on an un greased cookie sheet. Bake at 375 degrees for 8-10 minutes. Frost with powdered sugar frosting after cooling 10 minutes.

Well, I hope you enjoy! I will talk to you all soon.

From the Kitchen,
Hannah Brown

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An Encouraging Word

By: Mrs. Kristina Jossund

Giving Up Isaac

Isaac…laughter…son of promise…gift of God… why was God asking Abraham to give him back? It would be the most costly sacrifice he would ever make. There was nothing wrong with Isaac…he was the greatest outward proof of God’s faithfulness.

This story puzzled me. Often in my own life I thought I was more then willing to surrender my all - my pride, my sin, my selfish goals…in essence, all of the ugly stuff in my life. I knew I was fond of my sin, but the more I gazed on my Saviour, the less appealing it looked. It made complete sense in my mind to get rid of my “Ishmael,” my “son of bondage.” He was an impostor and a threat to the promises of God. I knew that I would never regret relinquishing it to the Refiner’s fire, and so I laid my sacrifice on the altar. I had nothing to lose, and everything to gain.

However, one day, God asked me to give back to Him a gift that had come from His hands. It wasn’t sinful, it wasn’t ugly - it was full of light, laughter, and joy. It was a fulfillment of His promise to me. It did not appear to threaten my walk with my Saviour, in fact, His presence seemed to be there in abundance through it. Why was God asking for Isaac? Was He going back on His promises? Was He retracting the fulfillment of His Word?

No, the Lord was not being slack concerning His promises, rather, He was teaching me that the most important thing in this life was Himself - not His blessings, not His promises - just Himself. I realized that in the midst of blessing I had taken my eyes off my Saviour and was in grave danger of loving the gift more than the Giver. I learned that Isaac was indeed God’s present and promise to Abraham, but he was never to take the place of love, loyalty, and worship in Abraham’s hear that belonged only to the Great I Am.

“Giving up Isaac”

One still night as I communed with my Lord

His Spirit awoke a slumbering chord

“Full surrender” was the challenge that came

“Will you yield all for pure love of My Name?”


My being replied, there was no distress

I longed to conform to His righteousness

My spirit spurned all the ugliness inside

“Take it Lord, my self-dependence and pride!”

Too long their dominion had made me a slave

Complete freedom in Christ was now what I craved


I thought that was it, I could offer no more

But something was held at my very heart’s core

I sat in confusion at what was revealed

This couldn’t be right, my whole being reeled!

It was Isaac, that precious gift from God’s hand

And as the decree came my soul turned to sand


“O Lord, not this! It will tear me apart!

The fulfillment of promise - part of my heart

It is perfect and pure, a treasured delight

It has nothing of evil, or sin’s dark night.”


In gentle tones the Spirit answered my call,

“Full surrender means the yielding of all

Whether it is sin or dreams, wrong or right,

Nothing can be held or it will block Christ’s light.”


I struggled and fought, and how great was the pain!

Finally Isaac on the altar was lain

“I am all Yours, do with me what You will.”

He drew me close, and what a glorious thrill!

I knew the sheer bliss of giving Him my all

And saw that compared to His love it was small.”

Written by: Kristina Jossund

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Bea's Bulletin

By: Miss Laura Beth Wagenschutz
* We will be hosting the First Annual Daughters of Faith Christmas Cookie Contest this Fall and we want all of you to join in the fun! Two winners will be chosen and will receive a free surprise gift as well as having their winning recipe printed in the November/December Issue. You may send in your recipes as soon as you get this paper, there is not an "Early" limit but: Please note that all recipes must be sent in by September 15! If we have not received your submission by that date, we will not be able to accept it for consideration. We look forward to getting your recipes!~Laura Beth
* What do you think??? Is the paper too long? Is there too much information?
Let us know what you think. What's your favorite article?
What's your least favorite article? Have any new ideas for articles you would like to see? Write! wagentrails@juno.com
**My sister, Jennifer, has made a CD to help pay for her college tuition! The CD is made up of 13 tracks,
including songs like "Fairest Lord Jesus", "All That Thrills My Soul" and "Without A Valley".
Jennifer has also recorded 3 original compositions on her CD entitled "Forgiven & Free", "All Things For Our Good" and "Thou Art God Alone".
I know that you would enjoy this Cd! Jennifer is an excellent pianist and vocalist.
The Lord has truly blessed her with an extraordinary talent.
Each CD is $10. If you would be interested in buying a CD, please contact Laura Beth at: wagentrails@juno.com.
If you would like to hear a sample song, please e-mail! If you have Windows Media Player, you should be able to listen to it.

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A Word From Our Subscribers...

Dear Laura Beth,
Thank you very much! I really enjoyed reading through it. God bless you and 'Daughters of Faith'!
Jenny

Oh Laura Beth, This newsletter is awesome. I want my girls to be Daughters of the faith. I want them to be close to God, to learn to pray for God to move in the lives of people. Lord help us not to be so hard not to worry about others and our own family. It took me 10 yrs of playing Christian to really see myself as God saw me.....Praise the Lord he never gave up on me. July 14th 2002 I got SAVED! Now I understand what Salvation really is..My favorite verse is Phil. 4:7 Peace of God. We all need the Lord he is sooooo good. I just want to Thank you for all the work you are putting into these letters. It helps moms like me.
Praise the Lord, Cheree

(From the Editor: I wanted to share this next e-mail from Miss Micah Wood. I admire her for stepping out and saying honestly what she thought of the last issue of DoF. Even though she did not agree 100% with us...She was honest, and I appreciate that.)

Laura Beth,
I don't think that DoF is too long, that's for sure! I thought the July/August issue was very good, although I will say that I am nonresistant (we attend a Mennonite church that my parents and two older siblings are members of) and did not agree with everything said. But that really doesn't
matter. I do have relatives that are in the army or navy, I couldn't say what division or anything though.
~Micah

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About Daughters of Faith

Daughters of Faith is a ministry of Twin Ports Baptist Church, 208 52nd Ave. East, Superior, Wisconsin. 1(715) 398-6947
We are an Independent, Fundamental, KJV only, Bible-Believing Baptist Publication.
All of our columnists write according to these convictions.
Daughters of Faith is a bi-monthly publication and is, therefore, published in these months:
January, March, May, July, September, and November.
If you would like to submit anything for publication, we need to have it before the 10th of these months.
Thank you...

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How To Get Involved With Daughters of Faith

We would be happy to consider anything that you submit for publication.
Our staff enjoys hearing ideas from our subscribers and we want each of you to be involved!
Here is a list of some ideas for things to send in:
Poetry
Recipes
Jokes
Short Devotional Paragraphs (Under 700 words, please)
Funny/Cute Children's Church Stories
Prayer Requests
Book Reviews
Classified Ads (Things for sale, etc.)
Quotes
Any ideas you may have for new articles!
We would love to hear from you! Please feel free to send any submissions to: Miss Laura Beth Wagenschutz, wagentrails@juno.com

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Subscription Information

To Subscribe to Daughters of Faith, please send an e-mail containing your name and e-mail address to: wagentrails@juno.com
To Un-Subscribe from Daughters of Faith, please send an e-mail containing your name, e-mail address, and a brief statement of your reason for un-subscribing to: wagentrails@juno.com

Have a great day today, and a better one tomorrow!
"Serve the Lord with Gladness!"