Saturday, September 20, 2014

Proverbs 31 Women of the Bible- part 6

Mary was a young girl who was engaged to Joseph. She was from the family of David and the blessing God had in-store for her was amazing! I believe this incredible woman fulfilled all of Proverbs 31 and deserves a whole blog post to herself.
In Matthew 1:18-25 we learn about Mary and Joseph obeying and trusting God. In chapter two of Matthew we read about how Mary and Joseph obeyed God even more after Jesus was born. In Luke 1:26-56 we learn of Mary's willingness and trust. I love this verse: "'I am the Lord's servant,' Mary answered. 'May your word to me be fulfilled.' Then the angel left her." (Luke 1:38)
The next thing I  find amazing about Mary is how she knew that time with her son was short and she needed to make the most of their days together. "But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart." (Luke 2:19) Mary also knew Jesus would provide and when they ran out of wine at a wedding, she went to Him but she was anxious.
Mary was with her son through it all. She did not turn away when He was nailed to the cross and she stayed after He died and was buried. Mary is the picture of perfect obedience, faith, trusting God, and the best mother! This makes her the perfect Proverbs 31 woman!

Sunday, September 14, 2014

College Life 101

 
These past three, almost four, weeks have been crazy! This is my second year in college and it's not anything like my first year was! Yes, this year is harder but also more fulfilling in a way.
I've learned that it is going to take me longer than two years to get my associates degree, but that's okay. I've realized God isn't done with me there yet! My mom has always told me that it didn't matter if it took me longer. What mattered was that I was working hard on this next chapter of my life. Then I got some good advice about the benefits of being in a community college, I want be in debt for school starting out!
I have also learned some more things that is good to do outside of college.
1.) Stay close to your church family. They are one of your biggest support systems and help you stay grounded in your faith!
2.) Take every chance you have with your family! They love you!
3.) Make time for your friends. Even if it's just to go out and get coffee.
4.) Do your homework! Don't fall behind in your classes.
5.) Spend time with God every day. He is what helps you truly make it through.
6.) Go on adventures and have fun.  "Real Life" is going to be there when you're done with college. Getting to go on vacation and explore!

Saturday, September 6, 2014

Other Women of the Bible- part 5

Jeroboam's Wife: (1 Kings 14:1-18) Probably worshiped other gods like her husband did. She tried to deceive a Prophet by disguising herself. She received the news that the kingdom would be taken away from her family and that when she went back home her son would die for the evil she and her husband had committed. I believe she was heartbroken about her son and she realized that God was in control. Unfortunately, she had to be completely broken.
The Prophet's Widow: (2 Kings 4:1-7) I don't think she doubted God. I think she knew God sent Elisha right when she needed Him to and her sons were saved!
Naaman's maidservant: (2 Kings 5:2-3) This unnamed girl was a great example of being a light in everyday life! She knew of Elisha and she helped Naaman to head in the right direction to be healed! Everyone can take away the lesson that God can and will use you in everyday life!
Huldah: (2 Kings 22:14-20) There are three important aspects to her character here. She was bold. She didn't sugarcoat God's Word. She offered hope and a sign of renewal. We can learn to be bold when speaking about God from her! (Source: Extraordinary Women of the Bible Lessons to guide Your Life.)
Vashti: (Esther 1:9-22) Vashti was having her own party as her husband had a  party too. She disobeyed the king and got replaced as Queen. I think what a person can lean from her is to think before you speak and seek wise conceal.
Job's Wife: (Job 2:9-10) She didn't build Job up. She actually told Job to curse God so that Job would die! I think she is a great example of what hopelessness looks like.
Job's Daughters: (Job 42:13-15) It was unusual for them to get an inheritance and their names were meant to mean the most beautiful things.
The Daughters of Jerusalem:(Song of Solomon) They symbolized people who work hard. They also symbolize someone who listens to godly advice and know that they are loved by God.
My Proverbs 3 Women of the Bible series and my Other Women of the Bible series will continue into the New Testament and I am really looking forward to studying these women and writing about their legacies! ~Brandi