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	<title>Blogs - CHRISTIAN REP</title>
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		<title>The Real Problem</title>
		<link>https://christianrep.com/blog/2018/06/12/the-real-problem/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Mike Messerli]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 13 Jun 2018 02:31:04 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Blogs]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[featured]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://christianrep.com/blog/?p=17364</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>There is a lot of debate about why violence has increased in our country, why school shootings are now so common.  The debate on one side blames guns and on the other it blames a culture awash with violence. But there is a clear cause that most do not want to acknowledge and a real &#8230; </p>
<p class="link-more"><a href="https://christianrep.com/blog/2018/06/12/the-real-problem/" class="more-link">Read more<span class="screen-reader-text"> "The Real Problem"</span></a></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://christianrep.com/blog/2018/06/12/the-real-problem/">The Real Problem</a> first appeared on <a href="https://christianrep.com/blog">CHRISTIAN REP</a>.</p>]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>There is a lot of debate about why violence has increased in our country, why school shootings are now so common.  The debate on one side blames guns and on the other it blames a culture awash with violence.</p>
<p>But there is a clear cause that most do not want to acknowledge and a real reason for the increased violence.</p>
<p>This insight into the real cause is sprinkled throughout the Bible and clearly spoken of in numerous places, but our culture never bothers to consult the owners manual to find out what is really happening.  If they did they would deny the solution God gives.</p>
<p>So, as a result, this kind of violence will continue and increase.  Whether guns or knives, bats or rocks it will go on because we refuse to acknowledge and address the real cause.</p>
<p>Here it is. Hidden in plain site.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">“There is no faithfulness, no love,</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">    no acknowledgment of God in the land.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">There is only cursing, lying and murder,</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">    stealing and adultery;</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">they break all bounds,</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">    and bloodshed follows bloodshed.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><b><strong><sup> </sup></strong></b>Because of this the land dries up,</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">    and all who live in it waste away…”</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Hosea 4</p>
<p>Because we have turned our backs on God this is our outcome, this is our result.  This is what life looks like without God.  No matter what solutions we legislate the problems will only get worse.</p>
<p>It will not stop until we turn once more and bow to the God who made us.</p>
<p>What we are seeing now is a culture without God.</p>
<p>That&#8217;s the real problem.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Visit Mike at <a href="http://mikemesserli.blogspot.com">Finishing Well.</a></p><p>The post <a href="https://christianrep.com/blog/2018/06/12/the-real-problem/">The Real Problem</a> first appeared on <a href="https://christianrep.com/blog">CHRISTIAN REP</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
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		<title>Joy is my Inheritance</title>
		<link>https://christianrep.com/blog/2016/05/16/joy-is-my-inheritance/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Marie]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 16 May 2016 06:01:20 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Bible Lesson]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Blogs]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Marie]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bible Study]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[choose joy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[joy in an inheritance]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[kay warren]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Online Bible Study]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://christianrep.com/blog/?p=15709</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Joy is my Inheritance What an exciting introduction to Choosing Joy by Kay Warren!  Have you ever taken time to ponder the thought that Joy IS our inheritance?  Pure joy as we walk the streets of gold, as we live in mansions prepared for us, as we finally see our Savior face to face?  That &#8230; </p>
<p class="link-more"><a href="https://christianrep.com/blog/2016/05/16/joy-is-my-inheritance/" class="more-link">Read more<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Joy is my Inheritance"</span></a></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://christianrep.com/blog/2016/05/16/joy-is-my-inheritance/">Joy is my Inheritance</a> first appeared on <a href="https://christianrep.com/blog">CHRISTIAN REP</a>.</p>]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://christianrep.com/blog/2016/05/16/joy-is-my-inheritance/jesus-was-a-compassionate-man-week-1/" rel="attachment wp-att-15710"><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-15710" src="http://christianrep.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Jesus-was-a-compassionate-man-week-1.jpg" alt="Jesus was a compassionate man week 1" width="960" height="642" /></a></p>
<p>Joy is my Inheritance</p>
<p>What an exciting introduction to Choosing Joy by Kay Warren!  Have you ever taken time to ponder the thought that Joy IS our inheritance?  Pure joy as we walk the streets of gold, as we live in mansions prepared for us, as we finally see our Savior face to face?  That inheritance is waiting for us AND if the Lord did nothing more for us while we were here on earth, that would still be reason enough to choose joy in our daily lives!</p>
<p>Aren’t you glad that God doesn’t stop with the joy of heaven?  The mercy and grace that He gives to us each day is simply amazing.</p>
<p>I love the authentic honesty that Kay Warren starts out this study with.  I love the fact that she lays it all out for us saying that Joy is a choice and that yes, even though we are Christians, we still struggle to find joy in the most difficult, darkest times of our lives.</p>
<p>We tend to forget about the verses that tell us to “Count it all JOY” when we face trouble, like James 1:2 reminds us to do.  Also John 16:33 tells us that we WILL have tribulation in this world, but it doesn’t end there, it also reminds us that Jesus has overcome this world.</p>
<p>When we are struggling to see joy in our trials and we fail to, it brings about guilt, depression and makes us wonder within our heart “why bother.” That guilt weighs us down and wears us out to exhaustion and then we are no longer effective for the Kingdom of the Lord.  If we are doing nothing but drowning in guilt and depression, then the enemy has won that battle.</p>
<p>Keeping in mind what Kay says “Joy and sorrow will always be linked” we can truly step back from our trials and remember Romans 8:28 “ALL things work together for good” even if we can’t see it right now, or if it’s been many years, we can always trust God to work it out for our good.</p>
<p>As Kay points out that yes, even though Jesus was a man of sorrow, He was also a “vibrant, compassionate man, a man of both sorrow and joy who could enter fully into life with all its brokenness.”</p>
<p>Let’s strive to be like Jesus this week and be:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>A Woman of JOY through our Attitude</strong> – We can’t change what happens, but we can control how we react to various situations.</li>
<li><strong>A Woman of Joy through our Words</strong> – Words are lasting! Good or bad, your words will linger in someone’s heart!</li>
<li><strong>A Woman of Joy through our Actions</strong> – Jesus was a servant! As you are making a difference for others, your heart will be flooded with great joy!</li>
</ul>
<p>As you go through your week, seeking to choose joy, remember Kay’s definition of joy.</p>
<p>“Joy is the <strong><em>settled assurance</em></strong> that God is in control of all the <strong><em>details</em></strong> of my life, the quiet confidence that ultimately everything is going to be all right, and the <strong><em>determined choice to praise God in all things</em></strong>.”</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>What have you allowed to hold you back from living a life of joy?  Before I answer this, I want to remind you that pain is pain…regardless of what kind – it ALL hurts.  Many feel that there are big hurts, little hurts and everything in between, but, keep in mind <strong><em>pain hurts.</em></strong></p>
<p>Even though I’m a pretty joyful, roll with it kind of gal, I struggle with seeing the good in the negative just like many others do.  The worst time was when my father died.  I knew it was coming, the doctors told us he had 6 months due to a worn out heart.  I tried to prepare others, get cousins, family and friends to come and see him and say what they wanted to say.  I moved in with him to help him with various physical limitations he had towards the end.</p>
<p>I thought I was ready.</p>
<p><strong>I thought wrong.  </strong></p>
<p>For nearly 2 years afterwards, I was such a deep depression that I hardly remember any of it.  There was no scrapbooking, no journaling, no nothing.  I went to work or church and came home to sleep.  That was it. It wasn’t until I started pouring myself into others that needed help, senior ladies in my church that wanted to be a “secret sister” but couldn’t afford to.  I asked people to donate things they could use and started praying more, covering the pain and guilt of not being able to “fix him.”  I knew that I had done all I could for my dad, but the loss was so great that it stole my joy for a long time.  He would not be happy with that as he was a “giver.” We never had a lot growing up, but we always gave to others and helped where we could.</p>
<p>Do one thing a day for someone else.  This will take your eyes off of your pain and troubles for just a little bit and allow you to see the needs of others.  Also, do something you enjoy daily.  These things do not have to require money, but the decision and determination to do them.</p>
<p>The lack of “Things” will try to steal your joy, people and their attitudes will try to steal your joy, and circumstances that are beyond your control will try to steal your joy – but remember…you have a choice.  You can choose joy.</p>
<p>It’s ok to choose joy in the middle of pain and sorrow.  It’s ok to let go of the guilt and give yourself permission to be happy.  It’s ok to say, “I don’t understand, but I believe God has me” and simply trust HIM.</p>
<p>Look to your inheritance, don’t focus on the fear or sorrows that surround you, focus on the Father!</p>
<p><a href="http://christianrep.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/choose-joy-week-1.pdf"><span style="color: #ff0000;"><strong>Download your Free PDF Worksheet</strong></span></a></p>
<p><strong>Discussion – choose to answer any or all of the following: </strong></p>
<ol>
<li>What do you allow to hold you back from living a life of joy?</li>
<li>What does your faith-life reveal about the depth of your relationship with God?</li>
<li>How does it make you feel to understand that God dances over you with joy? Is that easy for you to believe? Why or why not?</li>
</ol>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>**Make sure you check the box to receive the followup comments so you can communicate with others during this study</p><p>The post <a href="https://christianrep.com/blog/2016/05/16/joy-is-my-inheritance/">Joy is my Inheritance</a> first appeared on <a href="https://christianrep.com/blog">CHRISTIAN REP</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
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		<title>Choose Joy Bible Study</title>
		<link>https://christianrep.com/blog/2016/05/11/choose-joy-bible-study/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Marie]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Thu, 12 May 2016 00:59:07 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Bible Lesson]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Blogs]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Marie]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bible Study]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Choose Joy bible Study]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[joy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[kay warren]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Online Bible Study]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://christianrep.com/blog/?p=15703</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>I’m personally inviting you to this Choose Joy Bible Study. If you don’t have the book, I encourage you to hop on Amazon and get a copy or head over to your local Christian Bookstore and grab one there.   I’m so excited about this 4 Week Bible Study!  Joy doesn’t come easy for many of &#8230; </p>
<p class="link-more"><a href="https://christianrep.com/blog/2016/05/11/choose-joy-bible-study/" class="more-link">Read more<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Choose Joy Bible Study"</span></a></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://christianrep.com/blog/2016/05/11/choose-joy-bible-study/">Choose Joy Bible Study</a> first appeared on <a href="https://christianrep.com/blog">CHRISTIAN REP</a>.</p>]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://christianrep.com/blog/2016/05/11/choose-joy-bible-study/choose-joy-bible-study/" rel="attachment wp-att-15705"><img decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-15705" src="http://christianrep.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Choose-Joy-bible-study.jpg" alt="Choose Joy bible study" width="399" height="438" /></a></p>
<p>I’m personally inviting you to this Choose Joy Bible Study. If you don’t have the book, I encourage you to hop on Amazon and get a copy or head over to your local Christian Bookstore and grab one there.   I’m so excited about this 4 Week Bible Study!  Joy doesn’t come easy for many of us and with the issues that we face daily, sometimes we wonder if we’ll ever see/feel or have joy again.</p>
<p>The truth of the matter is that we can, and on a daily basis.  Choosing joy is possible, regardless of darkness that seems to surround you.</p>
<p>It is my desire that as we go through this study together you’ll not only choose joy but that you’ll daily display that the JOY of the Lord is YOUR strength!  Neh 8:10.</p>
<p>I know how painful day after day of troubles and trials are.  I know just how frightful and discouraging life’s issues are.  I know firsthand financial troubles, health issues with children and how the sting of unemployment affects families.  I know the loneliness and fear that can consume your heart during those times of complete darkness and sorrow.  I know how tightly discouragement holds on to you, rendering you powerless to even lift your head sometimes.   I know the pain and grief of families being torn apart and loved ones dying, never to hear their sweet voices or see their precious smile again.  I know how guilt and shame leaving you feeling like you have no right to blessings.  I know how the pain of any situation is enhanced when night falls and the silence of darkness surrounds you.</p>
<p><span style="color: #ff6600;"><strong><em>But…. </em></strong></span></p>
<p>I also KNOW the ONE who is right beside me as I’m struggling to choose joy and trust His will!  As I’m traveling through the darkness, HE doesn’t mind living there to protect me, to strengthen me and to guide me.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Our darkest days are no surprise to HIM.  Our tears of pain, aches of discouragement and feelings of failure are no surprise to Him.  Our anger and questions screamed at the top of our hearts because we simply don’t understand does not cause Him to worry or wonder what will happen.</p>
<p>I know how choosing joy through all of that is possible!  It’s not us it is HIM.</p>
<p><a href="http://christianrep.com/blog/2016/05/11/choose-joy-bible-study/joy-by-kay-warren/" rel="attachment wp-att-15706"><img decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-15706" src="http://christianrep.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/joy-by-kay-warren.jpg" alt="Joy Is" width="720" height="720" /></a></p>
<p><strong><em>Can you imagine how your heart will be swimming in true joy, even when you wonder just how things will work out at all?  </em></strong></p>
<p><strong><em>Can you imagine the joy that others around you will experience, because joy is highly contagious?</em></strong></p>
<p><strong>Can you imagine living a life of joy, simply because you choose to? And we know that we can do all things through Christ. Phil 4:13. </strong></p>
<p><strong>Each week there will be a pdf to download with a Memory verse and some open questions to get your heart focused on Choosing Joy.</strong></p>
<p>Let’s strengthen our resolve by studying this together and choosing joy together.</p>
<p>Can’t wait to see you and study this with you.  Dive right in and choose joy!</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p><p>The post <a href="https://christianrep.com/blog/2016/05/11/choose-joy-bible-study/">Choose Joy Bible Study</a> first appeared on <a href="https://christianrep.com/blog">CHRISTIAN REP</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
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		<title>The Smell Of Smoke</title>
		<link>https://christianrep.com/blog/2016/04/15/the-smell-of-smoke/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Mike Messerli]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sat, 16 Apr 2016 02:34:36 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Blogs]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mike]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Christ]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[God]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://christianrep.com/blog/?p=15676</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Have you ever sat by a campfire and found, that even hours later, the smell of smoke had permeated your clothes?  It lingers, it clings and others can smell it too. Often, as I live in a world that reminds me of Sodom and Gomorrah, I&#8217;m aware that the smell of the culture has clung &#8230; </p>
<p class="link-more"><a href="https://christianrep.com/blog/2016/04/15/the-smell-of-smoke/" class="more-link">Read more<span class="screen-reader-text"> "The Smell Of Smoke"</span></a></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://christianrep.com/blog/2016/04/15/the-smell-of-smoke/">The Smell Of Smoke</a> first appeared on <a href="https://christianrep.com/blog">CHRISTIAN REP</a>.</p>]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Have you ever sat by a campfire and found, that even hours later, the smell of smoke had permeated your clothes?  It lingers, it clings and others can smell it too.</p>
<p>Often, as I live in a world that reminds me of Sodom and Gomorrah, I&#8217;m aware that the smell of the culture has clung to me, that I&#8217;ve sat by their campfires too long.</p>
<p>I know, having experienced it, that by simply walking by a campfire the smoke of it easily and quickly permeates your clothing and the smell goes with you.  Some of that is unavoidable as we live in a world walking away from God, but it&#8217;s not the aroma I want others to smell in my life.</p>
<p>Paul writes of another aroma, another smell that permeates a Christian, that&#8217;s what I long to smell like,</p>
<p><i><span id="en-ESV-28822" class="text 2Cor-2-14"><span class="versenum"> &#8220;</span>But thanks be to God, who in Christ always leads us in triumphal procession, and through us spreads the fragrance of the knowledge of him everywhere.</span> <span id="en-ESV-28823" class="text 2Cor-2-15">For we are the aroma of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing,</span> <span id="en-ESV-28824" class="text 2Cor-2-16"><span class="versenum"> </span>to one a fragrance from death to death, to the other a fragrance from life to life.&#8221; 2 Corinthians 2 </span></i><br />
<i><span class="text 2Cor-2-16"><br />
</span></i>I live in a world that smells of smoke, the smoke of rebellion against God, but in the midst of that aroma God has given us a new fragrance, the smell of Christ, the aroma of life.</p>
<p><i>Lord, help me to live in the world, but not smell like it.  Let me smell like you, having walked by the fires of your Spirit burning in the lives of others, and may that aroma linger with me, the smell of Christ, and might it be a sweet aroma that draws men to you.</i></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Visit Mike at <a href="http://mikemesserli.blogspot.com" target="_blank">Finishing Well</a>.</p><p>The post <a href="https://christianrep.com/blog/2016/04/15/the-smell-of-smoke/">The Smell Of Smoke</a> first appeared on <a href="https://christianrep.com/blog">CHRISTIAN REP</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
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		<title>The Key To Everything</title>
		<link>https://christianrep.com/blog/2015/11/10/the-key-to-everything/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Rose]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 11 Nov 2015 03:32:48 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Blogs]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mike]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bible]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Christ]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[God]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Jesus]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Major Ian Thomas]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://christianrep.com/blog/?p=15605</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Christ is the key that unlocks the mystery of history. Poetic, isn&#8217;t it? The quote above, in part, is from a German theologian.  After writing more than 17,000 pages on the Bible and Christ these are his concluding thoughts. The key to everything is Jesus Christ.  If you leave him out the box remains locked, &#8230; </p>
<p class="link-more"><a href="https://christianrep.com/blog/2015/11/10/the-key-to-everything/" class="more-link">Read more<span class="screen-reader-text"> "The Key To Everything"</span></a></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://christianrep.com/blog/2015/11/10/the-key-to-everything/">The Key To Everything</a> first appeared on <a href="https://christianrep.com/blog">CHRISTIAN REP</a>.</p>]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Christ is the key that unlocks the mystery of history.</p>
<p>Poetic, isn&#8217;t it? The quote above, in part, is from a German theologian.  After writing more than 17,000 pages on the Bible and Christ these are his concluding thoughts.</p>
<p>The key to everything is Jesus Christ.  If you leave him out the box remains locked, the mystery still a mystery, the reason for our existence still uncertain.</p>
<p>Jesus himself told the religious leaders, &#8220;You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; it is these that testify about Me;&#8221; That&#8217;s either the most arrogant thing ever said or the most profound truth ever revealed.</p>
<p>Your response to Christ is the most important decision you will ever make.</p>
<p>Years ago I spent some time with the great Major Ian Thomas.  He was a wonderful man of God, crusty to be sure, but he loved the Lord.  Once, before he spoke, I made the mistake of asking him, &#8220;What are you going to talk about tonight?&#8221;</p>
<p>He replied, with a bit of irritation, &#8220;I&#8217;m going to talk about Jesus, what else is there to talk about?&#8221;</p>
<p>And he&#8217;s right.</p>
<p>In the last book of the bible these words begin the text, &#8220;The revelation of Jesus Christ.&#8221;  In five words we get a hint to the theme of this last book, to the entire bible, and in this book revelations about Jesus are in nearly every chapter.  It&#8217;s about him.  He&#8217;s the key to everything!</p>
<p>Without Christ, without knowing him, life remains a mystery. Without him we have no purpose, no meaning, no reason for being.</p>
<p>Jesus Christ is the key to everything. Do you know him?</p>
<p>Visit Mike at <a href="http://mikemesserli.blogspot.com" target="_blank">Finishing Well</a>.</p><p>The post <a href="https://christianrep.com/blog/2015/11/10/the-key-to-everything/">The Key To Everything</a> first appeared on <a href="https://christianrep.com/blog">CHRISTIAN REP</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
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		<title>What Will We Do?</title>
		<link>https://christianrep.com/blog/2015/10/03/what-will-we-do/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Rose]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sun, 04 Oct 2015 02:53:24 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Blogs]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mike]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Elisha]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[God]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Panic]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://christianrep.com/blog/?p=15577</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Panic. You&#8217;ve felt it, haven&#8217;t you? That sudden sense that everything is out of control&#8230; &#8230;that the world and the problems you face are overwhelming, too big, too much! You may have actually said it at one time, &#8220;What will I do?!&#8221; It was a question one man asked one morning when he realized what &#8230; </p>
<p class="link-more"><a href="https://christianrep.com/blog/2015/10/03/what-will-we-do/" class="more-link">Read more<span class="screen-reader-text"> "What Will We Do?"</span></a></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://christianrep.com/blog/2015/10/03/what-will-we-do/">What Will We Do?</a> first appeared on <a href="https://christianrep.com/blog">CHRISTIAN REP</a>.</p>]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<h3>Panic.</h3>
<p>You&#8217;ve felt it, haven&#8217;t you?</p>
<p>That sudden sense that everything is out of control&#8230;</p>
<p>&#8230;that the world and the problems you face are overwhelming, too big, too much!</p>
<p>You may have actually said it at one time, &#8220;What will I do?!&#8221;</p>
<p>It was a question one man asked one morning when he realized what had happened in the night.  Here is the short story from 2 Kings 6,</p>
<p><strong>15 </strong>When the servant of the man of God got up early the next morning and went outside, there were troops, horses, and chariots everywhere. “Oh, sir, what will we do now?” the young man cried to Elisha.</p>
<p><strong>16 </strong>“Don’t be afraid!” Elisha told him. “For there are more on our side than on theirs!” <strong>17 </strong>Then Elisha prayed, “O Lord, open his eyes and let him see!” The Lord opened the young man’s eyes, and when he looked up, he saw that the hillside around Elisha was filled with horses and chariots of fire.</p>
<p>When all we see is what we know we miss what God is doing around us.</p>
<p>This servant was in a complete panic because of what he saw, but</p>
<p>Elisha was sipping his coffee quite calmly.</p>
<p>He saw something completely different.</p>
<p>He saw what God was doing.</p>
<p>When panic comes, when fears rise, when the situations you see are overwhelming don&#8217;t forget that what you see is not all there is.</p>
<p>Unseen is a sovereign God guiding, protecting, watching.</p>
<p>And around us are heavens armies watching over his people.</p>
<p>As God said to the prophet Isaiah he says to us,</p>
<p>“Do not be afraid, for I am with you.&#8221;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Visit Mike at <a href="http://mikemesserli.blogspot.com" target="_blank">Finishing Well</a>.</p><p>The post <a href="https://christianrep.com/blog/2015/10/03/what-will-we-do/">What Will We Do?</a> first appeared on <a href="https://christianrep.com/blog">CHRISTIAN REP</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
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		<title>Week 4 Bible in 90 Days</title>
		<link>https://christianrep.com/blog/2015/07/14/week-4-bible-in-90-days/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Marie]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 14 Jul 2015 18:47:01 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Bible Study]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Blogs]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://christianrep.com/blog/?p=15464</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>&#160; As we near completing our first month of Bible reading, I’m excited that this goal is actually possible.  I’m still a little behind, but working diligently to catch up.   I hope that you are still on track and are enjoying your journey.  If you are behind, still work on it.  Think about it…how bad &#8230; </p>
<p class="link-more"><a href="https://christianrep.com/blog/2015/07/14/week-4-bible-in-90-days/" class="more-link">Read more<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Week 4 Bible in 90 Days"</span></a></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://christianrep.com/blog/2015/07/14/week-4-bible-in-90-days/">Week 4 Bible in 90 Days</a> first appeared on <a href="https://christianrep.com/blog">CHRISTIAN REP</a>.</p>]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://christianrep.com/blog/2015/07/14/week-4-bible-in-90-days/b90day-week-4/" rel="attachment wp-att-15467"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-15467" src="http://christianrep.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/b90day-week-4.jpg" alt="b90day week 4" width="640" height="426" srcset="https://christianrep.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/b90day-week-4.jpg 640w, https://christianrep.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/b90day-week-4-300x200.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>As we near completing our first month of Bible reading, I’m excited that this goal is actually possible.  I’m still a little behind, but working diligently to catch up.   I hope that you are still on track and are enjoying your journey.  If you are behind, still work on it.  Think about it…how bad its it to have read through your bible in 100 days? hmmm?</p>
<p>You can do this.  I have faith in you.</p>
<p><strong>Bible Reading Schedule for this week:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Day 22 1 Samuel 28:20 – 2 Samuel 12:10</li>
<li>Day 23 2 Samuel 12:11 – 2 Samuel 22:18</li>
<li>Day 24 2 Samuel 22:19 – 1 Kings 7:37</li>
<li>Day 25 1 Kings 7:38 – 1 Kings 16:20</li>
<li>Day 26 1 Kings 16:21 – 2 Kings 4:37</li>
<li>Day 27 2 Kings 4:38 – 2 Kings 15:26</li>
<li>Day 28 2 Kings  15:27 – 2 Kings 25:30</li>
</ul>
<p>In the early 1990’s H. Jackson Brown wrote Life’s Little Instruction Book. His son was going to college and he watned to share some gems of wisdom that he had gleaned over the years. He collected 511 gems of wisdom that were to guide his son’s life.  For instance – learn to make great chili, never buy a house without a fireplace, overtip breakfast waitresses, be brave – even if you’re not, pretend to be – no one can tell the difference etc etc.</p>
<p>His son responded enthusiastically and the document made its way to a publisher and became a best seller. It’s hard to know whether anyone was transformed by this  – but the Bible…that’s a different story.  Billions of people have been changed by its message of hope and salvation.</p>
<p><strong>Books you’ll Encounter This Week:</strong></p>
<p><strong>1 Kings</strong> – The book opens with the region of Solomon, a time when Israel enjoys a great deal of influence, wealth and worldwide recognition.  Yet, even as the world’s wisest man, Solomon is corrupted by worldly matters and the faiths of his wives and concubines. At his death the kingdom becomes divided.</p>
<p><strong>2 Kings</strong> – Continues the account of the kings and the divided kingdom through the fall of Jerusalem</p>
<p><strong>Reading Tips:</strong></p>
<p>Many new people and names are introduced that can be hard to distinguish from one another.  Some events are described more than one and the kings of Israel and Judah are handled in rapid-fire succession.  To minimize confusion, slow down, read attentively.  Notice the patterns of behavior by the various kings.</p>
<p><strong>Discussion:</strong></p>
<p>1. Why do you think there is such a disconnect between modern Christians and the Bible?</p>
<p>2.  How is your perception of the Bible changing as you read each day?</p>
<p>3.  What questions evolved from your readings this week?</p>
<p>4.  Our reading shows us many instances when Israel only partially follows God’s commands. What are some examples and the results?</p>
<p>5.  Based on our reading to date, talk about what God tends to do whan a society turns to him for help.</p>
<p>6. List the tragedies and unfortunate events that befall Naomi and Ruth in the Book of Ruth. Does any good come from all of this?</p>
<p>7.  What are some examples of tragedy or hardship from which good has emerged?</p>
<p>8.  Do you have any “life instructions” you’d like to share?</p>
<p>Click here to <a href="http://biblegateway.com">Listen to the Bible </a>as you read it.</p>
<p><a href="http://christianrep.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/1.2.f-Week_4_David_1233869461_1235400179.pdf">This Weeks Study Guide.</a> There is good stuff here, don’t pass this by!</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Please print out the Lesson! It will help you so much as you journey through the Bible!</p>
<p>What are your thoughts so far?</p>
<p>How are you doing?</p><p>The post <a href="https://christianrep.com/blog/2015/07/14/week-4-bible-in-90-days/">Week 4 Bible in 90 Days</a> first appeared on <a href="https://christianrep.com/blog">CHRISTIAN REP</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
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		<title>Week 2 Bible in 90 Days</title>
		<link>https://christianrep.com/blog/2015/06/28/week-2-bible-in-90-days/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Marie]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sun, 28 Jun 2015 06:01:43 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Bible Lesson]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Blogs]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bible 90 Days]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bible Reading]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bible Study]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Online Bible Study]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://christianrep.com/blog/?p=15379</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>&#160; Wow, what an exciting week we’ve had so far! I’m glad that you are along with me on this journey! Here is the main landing page for our study The Bible in 90 Days.  It has all of the links of the various resources and will have each week linked to it at the &#8230; </p>
<p class="link-more"><a href="https://christianrep.com/blog/2015/06/28/week-2-bible-in-90-days/" class="more-link">Read more<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Week 2 Bible in 90 Days"</span></a></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://christianrep.com/blog/2015/06/28/week-2-bible-in-90-days/">Week 2 Bible in 90 Days</a> first appeared on <a href="https://christianrep.com/blog">CHRISTIAN REP</a>.</p>]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://christianrep.com/blog/?attachment_id=15382" rel="attachment wp-att-15382"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-15382" src="http://christianrep.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/open-343297_640.jpg" alt="open-343297_640" width="640" height="426" srcset="https://christianrep.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/open-343297_640.jpg 640w, https://christianrep.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/open-343297_640-300x200.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Wow, what an exciting week we’ve had so far! I’m glad that you are along with me on this journey! Here is the main landing page for our study <a href="http://christianrep.com/blog/2015/06/15/bible-in-90-days-study/">The Bible in 90 Days.</a>  It has all of the links of the various resources and will have each week linked to it at the bottom.</p>
<p>Here is a <a href="http://christianrep.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/1.2.f-Week_2_Moses_1233868938_1235400131.pdf"><strong>Free Study Guide</strong> </a>for week 2.  This has some great information. I hope you’ll grab it.  Here are a few thoughts taken from the study guide for this weeks reading:</p>
<p><em>Have you ever experienced a wilderness, a time of wandering and dryness in the desert, where you felt deserted by God?</em></p>
<ul>
<li><em>A financial circumstance that is burying you</em></li>
<li><em>Waiting for an adoption to be finalized</em></li>
<li><em>Lacking clarity after graduation</em></li>
<li><em>Attempting to sell a house that has been on the market way too long</em></li>
<li><em>An illness that won’t go away</em></li>
<li><em>A family member who is rebelling</em></li>
<li><em>A dream that is turning to disappointment</em></li>
</ul>
<p><em>Survival Skills for the wilderness – 1.  Don’t Whine Numbers 11:4-6 (speaking directly to me!!) 2.  Get Help – Numbers 11:10-15  3.  Grow Strong Numbers 11:16-18</em></p>
<p>These things and more are discussed in the free weekly study guide. Enjoy!</p>
<p><strong>Reading Schedule for this week:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Day 8 – Lev 1:1 through Lev 14:32</li>
<li>Day 9 – Lev 14:33 through Lev 26:26</li>
<li>Day 10 – Lev 26:27 through Numbers 8:14</li>
<li>Day 11 – Numbers 8:15 through Numbers 21:7</li>
<li>Day 12 – Numbers 21:8 through Numbers 32:19</li>
<li>Day 13 – Numbers 32:20 through Deut 7:26</li>
<li>Day 14 – Deut 8:1 through Deut 23:11</li>
</ul>
<p>Biblegateway on the computer or Youversion on your phone allows you to listen to these chapters! I hope you&#8217;ll take advantage of it.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Think about it:</strong></p>
<p>Unless you’ve adopted, you don’t get a choice about the children you have.  One difference between God and us is that He does know who his children will be.  Yet He creates us and gives us a free will, despite that knowledge.  A question we might ponder while reading the Bible from cover to cover is, “knowing what HE knows, why would God create each one of us? Why did God create me?”</p>
<p><strong> </strong><strong>Reading Tips:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Remember what our goal is: “To read, attentively, every word of the Bible in 90 days.”</li>
<li>As you encounter repetition in the Bible, consider it an opportunity to more firmly plant important writings in your mind.</li>
<li>Do not obsess with capturing everything you are reading. Absorb what you can, God will bring it back as you need it.</li>
<li>If you’ve gotten behind in your reading, don’t give up! Catch up by reading a little more each day or take Sunday and catch up.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Leviticus Overview:</strong></p>
<p>This book of rules gives direction to the Levitical priests in the rituals necessary to maintain holiness for the children of Israel. While modern readers may marvel at the seeming harshness of some directives, it also includes God’s earliest command to “love your neighbor as yourself.” (and we are always kind to ourself aren’t we?)</p>
<p><strong>Numbers Overview:</strong></p>
<p>At the beginning of this book, the Israelites number 603,550 at the end they number 601,730. What occurs in between is a lessonin the pitfalls of failing to submit to God and his plan.</p>
<p><strong>Deuteronomy Overview:</strong></p>
<p>With the Israelites finally approaching entry to the promised land, many elements of the previous four books are revisited here, including the Ten Commandments. Moses gets to view the promised land from Mount Nebo but dies before his people enter it.</p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong>Some discussion questions:</strong></p>
<p>1.  What did you modify (if anything) this week to make sure that you  did your Bible reading? .</p>
<p>2.  When/how did you read? Did you do it all at once, break it up? Read in the mornings, evenings?</p>
<p>3. Ok…honesty time – you ready for this? Did you complete all of your reading? hmmm?? If yes, was it easy for you? If no, what can you do to try and get back with it? Please don’t give up.  We are in this together.</p>
<p>4. What are your suggestions to help others that may have found the first week difficult?</p>
<p>5. So many emotions in last weeks reading.  Did you relate at all? Have you been angry with God? How do you handle it? Is the God you read about in Genesis and exodus the God that you “know”.</p>
<p>6. Adam and Eve blew it. Cain blew it.  What can we learn from it, because it’s just a matter of time before we blow it.</p>
<p>7.  Can you recall the 10 Commandments? You don’t have to list them here, but just for the fun of it…try.  Don’t be afraid, because there is NO way your memory is worse than mine!</p>
<p>Please feel free to list any “aha” moments, any verses that spoke to you.  I hope that you’ll listen to the audio notes as far as the discussion goes.  Speak yer peace….what say ye? hmmm? *grinning*</p>
<p>Keep drawing closer to God! Stay in the Word! You are developing great habits of reading/listening and moving closer to the Lord each and every day!</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p><p>The post <a href="https://christianrep.com/blog/2015/06/28/week-2-bible-in-90-days/">Week 2 Bible in 90 Days</a> first appeared on <a href="https://christianrep.com/blog">CHRISTIAN REP</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
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		<title>Bible in 90 Days Study</title>
		<link>https://christianrep.com/blog/2015/06/15/bible-in-90-days-study/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Marie]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 15 Jun 2015 19:30:03 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Bible Lesson]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Blogs]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bible in 90 Days]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bible Study]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://christianrep.com/blog/?p=15358</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>&#160; The Bible in 90 Days  I&#8217;ve done this study a few years back and wanted to do it again with you! Many feel you can&#8217;t &#8220;get anything&#8221; when you read through the Bible in this fashion, but I submit to you God Promised HIS Word will NOT return void.  So, what do you have &#8230; </p>
<p class="link-more"><a href="https://christianrep.com/blog/2015/06/15/bible-in-90-days-study/" class="more-link">Read more<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Bible in 90 Days Study"</span></a></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://christianrep.com/blog/2015/06/15/bible-in-90-days-study/">Bible in 90 Days Study</a> first appeared on <a href="https://christianrep.com/blog">CHRISTIAN REP</a>.</p>]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-15359" src="http://christianrep.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/bible-in-90-days.jpg" alt="bible in 90 days" width="640" height="469" srcset="https://christianrep.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/bible-in-90-days.jpg 640w, https://christianrep.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/bible-in-90-days-300x220.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /></p>
<p><strong>The Bible in 90 Days </strong></p>
<p>I&#8217;ve done this study a few years back and wanted to do it again with you! Many feel you can&#8217;t &#8220;get anything&#8221; when you read through the Bible in this fashion, but I submit to you <em><strong>God Promised HIS Word will NOT return void.</strong></em>  So, what do you have to lose?</p>
<p>Each week I&#8217;ll post the schedule, some discussion questions and a FREE study guide for us to follow along/help us out with.</p>
<p>We will start Sunday 6/21 but you can Join us at anytime!</p>
<p>You do NOT need to purchase another Bible.</p>
<p>Each week I will be posting the schedule for the week, some thoughts, questions and such.  But, should you want to, here is a<a href="http://scriptureawakening.com/b90/resources/"> link for products in this study</a> that has a NIV Bible with the pages marked with start and finish.  There is also a participant guide you can purchase for $8.99. Personally I like the participant guide, but feel free to use a journal or notebook to write things down in.</p>
<p>You will be able to participate in discussions about what we read by answering questions, leaving comments, asking questions and having a fun time as we soak up the history of so many wonderful people, times and miracles listed in the Bible.</p>
<p><em>We’ll be reminded that even great men failed to believe, do the right thing at the right time and even got angry, disobeyed direct commands, yet still were mighty men of faith.  We’ll see the beauty of relationships restored, faith increased and tears of joy through out this study.  Are you committed? Are you a little nervous? Are you with me?</em></p>
<p>If you use the Bible from the link above, you’ll read 12 pages a day.  Just 12.  You can do this. WE can do this.  Many may wonder about reading through so “quickly” and not retaining it.  Well, if my math is correct – you’ll be reading through your Bible 4 times a year.  I don’t know about you, but I’m expecting growth from this!</p>
<p><strong>What can you expect as we journey through the Bible together? </strong> These are just a few of my own personal observations, but I feel that you can expect:</p>
<ul>
<li>“Things” to get in your way and you’ll fall behind. If this happens, take the time to read a few extra pages a day, or set time on Sunday to get caught up.</li>
<li>Work to pick up and tiredness will be a factor. Read while you rest!!</li>
<li>You’ll make it through the Bible in 90 days having learned/felt something that applied to right where you are, right now. Growth, hope and inspiration.</li>
<li>You’ll find new friends that are supporting what you do here. Even if it’s just me <img decoding="async" class="wp-smiley" src="http://www.spreading-joy.org/site/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_wink.gif" alt=";-)" /></li>
<li>Questions that may lead to more questions. But, together, we’ll find the answers.</li>
<li>More admiration for the Lord</li>
<li>A deeper, closer walk with the Lord.</li>
<li>Joy in your heart from overcoming your fears of failure in this area.</li>
</ul>
<p>I’m hoping by the end, you’ll have a desire to do it again. Each time you read through the Bible, you’ll get something different, as you are in a different place in your life.  It will be an awesome accomplishment by the time a year ends and we will have read through the Bible 4 times!</p>
<p>There are study guides that give extra insight in each week. I hope you’ll grab them and make use of them.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>You can also read through your Bible ONCE in this year by using <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/reading-plans/comprehensive?version=kjv">THIS schedule</a></strong></p>
<p>If you want to Join me on this 90 Day Bible Adventure, please leave your name, twitter handle (if you have one) and State/area below so that we can interact together.  I&#8217;ll be posting things in the comments about my adventure, and hope that you&#8217;ll do the same!</p>
<p>Make sure you check back to catch up on any comments that are made here.</p>
<p><strong>We can do this!</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://christianrep.com/blog/2015/06/22/week-1-bible-in-90-days/">Lesson 1</a></p>
<p><a href="http://christianrep.com/blog/2015/06/28/week-2-bible-in-90-days/">Lesson 2</a></p>
<p><a href="http://christianrep.com/blog/2015/07/06/week-3-bible-in-90-days/">Lesson 3</a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p><p>The post <a href="https://christianrep.com/blog/2015/06/15/bible-in-90-days-study/">Bible in 90 Days Study</a> first appeared on <a href="https://christianrep.com/blog">CHRISTIAN REP</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
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		<title>The 10 Commandments of Motherhood</title>
		<link>https://christianrep.com/blog/2015/05/19/the-10-commandments-of-motherhood/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Marie]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 19 May 2015 16:29:26 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Blogs]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kaylene]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[10 commandments]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[christian children]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[christian living]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[mom life]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[motherhood]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://christianrep.com/blog/?p=15309</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>So often we get lost or overwhelmed in all the demands of being a mom. I wouldn&#8217;t trade the job for the world, but sometimes a mom just needs a break! We also need good advice and guidelines when it comes to being the mom our children need. Over the years I have learned and &#8230; </p>
<p class="link-more"><a href="https://christianrep.com/blog/2015/05/19/the-10-commandments-of-motherhood/" class="more-link">Read more<span class="screen-reader-text"> "The 10 Commandments of Motherhood"</span></a></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://christianrep.com/blog/2015/05/19/the-10-commandments-of-motherhood/">The 10 Commandments of Motherhood</a> first appeared on <a href="https://christianrep.com/blog">CHRISTIAN REP</a>.</p>]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>So often we get lost or overwhelmed in all the demands of being a mom.</p>
<p>I wouldn&#8217;t trade the job for the world, but sometimes a mom just needs a break! We also need good advice and guidelines when it comes to being the mom our children need. Over the years I have learned and tried to apply the principles of these<em> “10 Commandments of Motherhood.”</em></p>
<p><a href="http://christianrep.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/girl-187677_640-1.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-15311" src="http://christianrep.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/girl-187677_640-1.jpg" alt="girl-187677_640 (1)" width="426" height="640" srcset="https://christianrep.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/girl-187677_640-1.jpg 426w, https://christianrep.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/girl-187677_640-1-200x300.jpg 200w" sizes="(max-width: 426px) 100vw, 426px" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><em><strong>1. You shall spend time with the Lord everyday before your children wake up.</strong></em></p>
<p>Spending time alone with your Creator, seeking His will and His ways, will supply you strength and wisdom for the days challenges. If mornings are not an option, find a time that suits you better. Just make it a priority every single day.</p>
<p><em><strong>2. You shall not esteem or accommodate your children over your husband.</strong></em></p>
<p>God.</p>
<p>Husband.</p>
<p>Children.</p>
<p>In that order.</p>
<p><em><strong>3. You shall not misuse your position as mother by making ridiculous demands of your children.</strong></em></p>
<p>Rules and guidelines bring structure to every home. Your children may not like the rules. They will challenge your authority. Stick to your guns. You are not to appease their every whim, but neither are you to exasperate them by endless angry commands. Encourage them. Praise them for a job well done or an attitude improved. As much as possible, keep a loving, joyful atmosphere in your home, finding a balance between work and play.</p>
<p><em><strong>4. Observe a time once a week for the whole family to engage in an activity.</strong></em></p>
<p>Let children take turns choosing and planning a weather appropriate engagement. This will help each child feel valuable to the family unit.</p>
<p><em><strong>5. Honor your father, mother, and in-law’s presences in rearing your children.</strong></em></p>
<p>Grandparents add a special family tie to your child’s life. Grandparents are also willing to share advice on parenting do’s and don’ts from their own parenting successes or regrets. Honor their advice. You didn&#8217;t turn out so bad, did you?  Thoughtfully and respectfully consider their advice, ultimately choosing what is best for your situation.</p>
<p><em><strong>6. You shall not kill/crush your child’s spirit by degrading them privately or publicly.</strong></em></p>
<p>Speak kind words. Is it really necessary to make a snide remark about your child’s behavior or are you trying to shame them into obedience? For myself, I’ve found that its OK to let them wear a mismatched outfit or have that hairstyle. Does their choice really matter or is it more about you not wanting to be embarrassed?</p>
<p><em><strong>7. You shall not secretly or verbally wish your child was like so-and-so’s child.</strong></em></p>
<p>Again, speak kind words. Never make them feel as though they don’t measure up. They have enough of that from their own peers. Don’t devastate them by stripping them of the security found in your unconditional love.</p>
<p><em><strong>8. You shall steal a few moments for yourself.</strong></em></p>
<p>Reread that!</p>
<p>Whether its sipping a quiet cup of coffee, indulging in a salon appointment, or hitting the gym, take some time to love yourself. You’ll feel better equipped to tackle the next demands of your day.</p>
<p><em><strong>9. You shall not speak a lie to your child nor live a lie in front of your child.</strong></em></p>
<p>Speak truthfully. Walk with integrity. Did you mess up? Admit it. Vow to do better.</p>
<p>“What we are at home, that we are indeed.” ~ Charles Spurgeon</p>
<p><em><strong>10. You shall not love one child more than another child.</strong></em></p>
<p>Playing favorites causes lifetime pain for your child and generations of separation in the family. Just don’t go there. I get it, sometimes your personalities clash.</p>
<p>The bottom line is, you are the adult. It is your job to act maturely and graciously. It is your child’s job to act like a child.</p>
<p>Guide them with wise words and a life that demonstrates the love and humility of Christ.</p>
<p><strong>What would you add to these 10 Commandments of Motherhood? What is the most important thing you can do for your children? </strong></p>
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<p><a href="http://christianrep.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/kaylene.png"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-15310" src="http://christianrep.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/kaylene.png" alt="kaylene" width="232" height="114" /></a></p>
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<p><em>Kaylene is just a girl with a sword, a shield and a strong cup of coffee. She finds her first ministry to be in her home living out her calling of wife and mother. In her spare time she writes to encourage women to thrive well in their current roles. Be it through sweet encouragement or an occasional dose of humor or spunkiness, her goal remains the same&#8230; to point women to the Lord.</em></p>
<p><strong>You can follow along with her here: </strong></p>
<p><strong>Facebook:</strong> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Faithful-Feat/260551190785913?ref=hl">https://www.facebook.com/pages/Faithful-Feat/260551190785913?ref=hl</a></p>
<p><strong>Google:</strong> <a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/110172231736818866452/posts">https://plus.google.com/u/0/110172231736818866452/posts</a></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p><p>The post <a href="https://christianrep.com/blog/2015/05/19/the-10-commandments-of-motherhood/">The 10 Commandments of Motherhood</a> first appeared on <a href="https://christianrep.com/blog">CHRISTIAN REP</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
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