Woman Beautiful

A Lifestyle of Abundance -- 2012 Goals

2012-01-16T00:36:00.001-06:00

It doesn't seem as though it has been that many years ago that we were bracing for the year 2000; being uncertain at what might happen in the realm of technology and society as we knew it. Now we are in 2012 and technology and the Internet are more vital today than Bill Gates ever thought they would be. As the story goes, Bill Gates thought that the "Internet" would never be a big deal and he really didn't want to pursue its possibilities, but his team thought differently. Yea for the team! We all need a team...those who will help us see and believe the things that we cannot. As I share a few of my goals for 2012 with you, it is with the evidence of things not yet seen (Hebrews 11:1). Goal number 1: I want to thoroughly clean every room in my house; this sounds like it should be an easy task but...I want my cleaning to include closets, drawers, boxes, under the beds, in the corners and etc. Leaving nothing unturned, moving every piece of furniture, cleaning windows, ceilings, baseboards and walls. I want to get rid of everything that I do not use or decorate with. This will also include the garage. Goal number 2: I want to finish two books that I've been working on for the past three years. Goal number 3: I want to become completely debt free. Goal number 4: I want to faithfully implement all of the Beauty Tips that I have included in my book, Woman Beautiful, and those that I post on the Woman Beautiful Facebook page. Goal number 5: I want to give more to the fertile grounds of God's Kingdom than I have ever given before and goal number 6: I want to love others well -- more passionately compassionate than I've ever loved them before! And I want this love to start with Jesus and then move swiftly to my family, church, neighbors, and community then beyond. This is probably my most significant goal. To love with sweet sensitivity that originates with Holy God. In order to reach each of these goals there are certain behaviors that I will have to implement -- a plan that will, indeed, enable me to accomplish every goal. This plan must include: working in my home everyday...intentionally; I will have to designate times to write each week and then stick to those times; I will have to monitor daily spending -- evaluating every purchase to determine whether it is a need or a desire. December 31, 2012 will be here before I know it and I'm convinced that "denying myself" for 12 months will not kill me. I will have to practice what I preach, even when I am tired; I will have to give strategically, not just making my usual tithe, but paying close attention to the voice of the Lord and being obedient to give as He leads and I will have to spend time in the presence of God daily in order to really know and understand His undefiled, selfless love. In reaching all of my goals, I need a team that will encourage me, pray for me and believe in me. More than these, my team will have to be willing to hold me accountable speaking those truths to me that I really might not want to hear. Thankfully, I do have such a team. This team is found in my husband, adult children, and prayer partners as well as the Woman Beautiful team and a small support group that I facilitate. You too need such a team! We at Woman Beautiful want to cheer you on in the desires, dreams, visions and goals that God has born in your heart. We would like to pray for you, answer your questions, and give you great ideas on how to embrace the woman that God truly created you to be. Please go to www.womanbeautiful.us and receive the help and encouragement that you might be needing today. We love you and delight in the opportunity to help you in this walk of life. We look forward to receiving your contact. Blessings, Amanda

Becoming A Godly Woman In A Ungodly World

2011-11-04T00:55:00.000-05:00

My book, Woman Beautiful could have easily been subtitled, Becoming A Godly Woman In A Ungodly World -- it's the challenge every Christian woman faces. In a recent conversation, my daughter, Whitney, and I were discussing the critical spirit that so many women have embraced. Harshness, impatience, frustration, and criticism dominate most days and many women lay their heads down at night only to grieve over their reactions to daily life. It breaks our hearts to come face-to-face with the way we've spoken to our precious and innocent children; realizing the hurt we've caused them and ourselves by our thoughts and attitudes is sometimes more discouraging then the stress of everyday life.

Just in the past few months God has set me free from these same death bringing behaviors. I say death because carelessly spoken words bring death to such things as childhood development; invitations to parental involvement; and death to the dreams our children have been given by God. Not to mention death to love, acceptance, approval and the list goes on. Destructive speech is not only limited to women and their children but also to their marriage relationship, work space, women's groups and more. I call this aspect of beauty "Relational Beauty."

     The first relationship that needs to be attended to is woman's relationship with the LORD. Apart from Him there is no lasting change. I have walked intimately with God for many years now. Yet, and thankfully, I am still a diamond in the rough. A little less rough, but rough nonetheless. I believe that one of the reasons we are still so rough is that we are guilty of being discontent with the lives that we seem to be having to live. For many of us it is certainly not the life we thought we were standing in line for. Let me explain. I, like many of you, had been taken captive by feelings of hurt; hurt caused by the behavior of the man that I love. Or, perhaps you don't have a man in your life, therefore you manage all areas of your life, alone. Maybe you're raising your grandchildren and feel as if you've already been there and done that. You know that your grand babies need you, yet there are those days that you would really enjoy the freedom to do the things that you put on hold while you reared your own children. Maybe you don't have a husband and you don't have children or gandchildren. Perhpas you are single and simply believe that God has dealth with you somewhat unjustly. The demands, discouragement and disappointments that each of these relationships create in a woman's life are sometimes more stressful than we can manage on our own. This is why I know that our relationship with God is so absolutely vital! He alone can take the crooked road and make it straight.
     I cringe every time I hear a mother talk harshly to her child. I was, and still am if I don't wait on the Lord, that mom who jumped over the real emotion, which was usually fear, and landed...splat... right in the middle of anger! It is heartbreaking to me because immediate hurt can be seen in the child's countenance. Little by little a child's joy and innocence slowly die. Sadly, for many children, this form of verbal harshness is the family norm.
     Another more subtle form of death is that of husband bashing. This method of causing death is typical office talk for many women. Being frustrated because of having to work a full time job, cook, clean house and raise the children seemingly by herself makes very fertile ground for bitterness and resentment. Back-stabbing women in the work place add heaps of hurt to an already wounded spirit by down talking men and by coming into agreement with the one who is hurting -- offering insults, blurting out..."I wouldn't put up with that!", and making comments on how pitiful he is. What many of us don't know and understand is that we all have similar hurts. Most marriages are not picture perfect. Rather than being offended by or jealous of one another, therefore wanting to see another marriage fail, we need to be supportive and encouraging toward one another.
     Women everywhere go through the day to day tasks of living...alone. Not realizing that their singlehood is a gift from God, they are consumed with wanting someone to enjoy life with.
     In order to be either supportive or encouraging, a woman has to know who she is in Christ. Apart from Him she will be disappointed and discouraged -- daily! Yes, we are afforded the opportunity to be offended every day. That offense will cause us to be short tempered, mouthy, insensitive, self-centered, self-serving and the list goes on. It is up to us to make the decision to be loving, kind and soft -- the way God created us.
     Females have been created with and in femininity -- gentleness, kindness, tenderness; expressing compassion, extending grace. But, when an ungodly world crashes in on us...every day...our soft, tender and gentle femininity morphs into this really unattractive monster who's in need of some form of control. The need for control, because we are female, causes us to take on the role that was rightly given to men by God -- the role of authority and masculinity. Our voice gets louder and deeper. We make strange and intimidating facial expressions and we issue sarcastic and often times unrealistic demands on the little people around us. Little being both children and others we view as less or lower than, ourselves. The crazy thing is, we really don't want to be the authority. We don't want to be in control. Women, moreso than men, know that control equals responsibility and accountability. We delight in passing on that! What we really want is to be extended grace in order that we can become the beautiful woman that God created us to be. That woman really is a very loving and gentle spirited female. She gives endlessly without regret or frustration for being taken for granted. If we women had our ruthers, we would rather be the amazing feminine of God on every occasion; responding to the difficulties of life with kindness and grace. We would like to be well taken care of and given the opportunity to have a thriving, selfless, love-filled marriage, family, workplace and church. In being taken care of, we can then take care of those we love.
     Now, to become a Godly woman in an ungodly world. 1) know the Truth - His name is Jesus! In knowing the Truth, you are set free, indeed! Free from the mannerism, sarcasm, and ridicule of the world -- the lost, and those who are saved but have never chosen to take on the identity of Christ. His identity is a choice that few believers make. 2) know who you are in Christ. You have been Divinely created. Before you were formed in your mamma's womb God knew you. You are fearfully and wonderfully made. You are the daughter of the Most High God. You are a joint heir with Jesus Christ. You are the head and not the tail. You are above and not beneath. You are valued and deeply loved by the Creator of the Universe. 3) know that God has given you the Holy Spirit as Comforter and as your Power Source. Ask for His sweet infilling -- watch what He does!
     When Moses sent ten spies into the Promise Land, 8 came back defeated. God told the Israelites that He was giving them the Promise Land but they would have to go in and take it by force. The 8 saw the giant men and called themselves grasshoppers in comparison, saying they could not stand against the giant inhabitants. 2 spies came back shouting the victory. They knew that all things were (are) possible with God. Because God said the land was theirs and all they had to do was go in and take it they knew they warred from a position of victory. They knew God would fulfill His part of the promise. This is to be your shout every day -- the shout of victory! In doing so, you will take by force what God has already given you. You have overcome! 4) refuse to adapt to the world, rather you are to be transformed by the renewing of your mind. This renewing comes only by spending time in the word daily...studying Scripture, getting to know God better and learning to love Him more. 5) become intimate with God. Pray! Learn to recognize His voice. Believe His words. Trust Him. 6) be holy because God is holy. You are to be in the world but certainly not of the world. Take on the beauty or holiness of Almighty God. In doing this, the day will come when the ungodly muck of the world will be so unappealing to you that anytime your life reflects godlessness it will break your heart and conviction will be a welcomed affliction. Literally, the attitude, behavior, and sin of this world will become repulsive to you and the joy of the Lord, which is your strength, will override every fiery dart that Satan and the lost world throws your way. And lastly, 7) deliberately befriend high-caliber Christians. Search out women whom you know are growing in the Lord, who strive everyday to live a life pleasing to Him and who spend time regularly in personal Bible study and prayer. You will easily recognize their Godly lives -- they will look the same in their home, church, workplace, and other public venues. And you will see the attributes and character of Christ in them.
     Again, here are the 7 aspects to becoming a Godly woman in an ungodly world:
     1) Know the Truth - Jesus,
     2) Know who you are in Christ - daughter of the Most High God, joint heir with Jesus,
     3) Receive the Holy Spirit's supernatural infilling - surrender your all,
     4) Refuse to adapt to the world - be transformed by the renewing of your mind - know the Word.
     5) Become intimate with God - pray.
     6) Be Holy - because God is holy, and
     7) Hang-out with high caliber Christians.
     Bask in the beauty of Almighty God. It's in Him that you are Woman Beautiful!
Love and Blessings, Amanda

Remembering 9/11 on 9/11/11

2011-09-11T23:17:00.000-05:00

Like every other American, I remember, well, what I was doing the morning of the most horrific terrorist attach America had ever experienced. It was a beautiful September morning here in our small Kansas community -- just as clear and beautiful and seemingly peaceful as the skies over New York City. Making the last left-hand turn in my routine morning route as I delivered my youngest child to her second grade school, I heard the announcement come over the radio, "The World Trade Center has been hit by an airplane." A sense of wonder filled my mind as I kissed my daughter good-bye and hurried home to turn on the television. Consumed with what I was seeing, I watched in disbelief as the second plane came into view. What? What is going? This can't be accidental! I remember calling my husband who was already at the office -- asking if he had heard the reports. Concern gripped my heart and mind and an overwhelming sense to pray for the people involved and for America took root.

I, like many of you, found it very difficult to comprehend that someone could have such deep hate toward us that they would plot a deliberate plan to bring destruction to so many innocent people in the hopes of bringing destruction to a entire nation. Al-Qaeda, meaning "The Base" a Sunni Islamist militant group, (Sunni recognizing them as people of the tradition) is a Muslim movement calling for global Jihad -- global "holy war." The US government responded to this attack on America with an all in War On Terror.

Now, 10 years later we're still engaged in the War On Terror and will be from now until forever -- as long as the United States of America refuses to bow down to Al-Qaeda. The real battle has to be fought and will only be won by Christians humbling themselves before God, turning from their wicked ways and seeking His beautiful face. We have no choice but to be on our knees in prayer, petitioning Him for continued protection for this great Christian nation, followers of Christ, Jews and for non-Muslims throughout the world. Today, in honor of 9/11, many have gathered all across our country to pray for the family members of that devastating day and for America -- one nation under God. To quote William Booth, I want to encourage you to "go straight for souls, and go for the worst." As you humble yourself before God, and pray and seek His face and turn from your wicked ways, I want to encourage you to also pray for the Muslim people. Not that Muslim's as a whole are "the worst" but the Islamist militant group that will lie, maim and kill to achieve their purpose and who has a plan to take over the world, dictating every man's religion and law, certainly is! Pray that God would open their eyes and reveal Jesus to them; that they would receive Him as Lord and Savior in order that they would be saved for eternity and changed for His Kingdom purposes in such a time as this. And pray that Al-Qaeda would be confounded and war against itself.

May the words "God Bless America" never again be said with shallow commitment to God, but rather, may we proclaim His faithfulness to this country with hearts full of honor and worship toward Him.

Love and blessings, Amanda

Letting Go Of The Guilt From The Past

2011-08-12T21:15:00.010-05:00

Too often we find ourselves consumed with the guilt of past behavior: drugs, alcohol, sexual promiscuity, verbal, physical and sexual abuse, thievery, lies, harsh treatment of others, addictions, pornography, violence, broken relationships, gossip, lust and the list goes on.

As I write, I'm reminded of an incident in which I carried much guilt and perhaps even more shame -- I hadn't realized that until now. If I recall correctly I was about 13. A few friends of mine and I were participating in a local Walk-A-Thon. I believe we were raising money for cancer. One of the girls in our group, who was a couple of years younger than me, was a little thick and had a lazy eye. Even though she was the cousin to a good friend of mine, I really didn't know Donja; a young girl about to enter her teenage years who, unknown by me, suffered with a rare type of bone cancer. Donja's shiny brown hair fell just past her shoulders and the smile she wore very evidently conveyed the joy inside of her. Although our walk that day would take us the three miles from end of town to the other, you would have never known just how difficult that trek was for her.

A little way into our walk, one of the boys began to poke fun at Donja. Actually it wasn't fun at all. It was cruelty and even though it was behind her back, it was destructive all the same. I didn't hesitate to join in. Caught by surprise, my friend, Paula, turned around just in time to witness my contribution to the ugliness. Immediate guilt, shame and embarrassment set in and to this day I have never forgotten it -- Donja died just a few short months later. Over the years my heart has ached every time I've thought about that day. I could have loved on her. I could have encouraged her on in the walk. I could have treated her with kindness and respect. I could have...but I did not.

I've been told that to let go of the guilt is a difficult thing to do. I believe it! My story, compared to that of others is perhaps small and insignificant, but full of shame nonetheless. Isn't that what guilt is? Shame in disguise. Merriam Webster says that shame is a painful emotion caused by consciousness of guilt; something that brings strong regret, censure or reproach.

God certainly has a different plan for the inappropriate behavior that we, often by choice, participate in. Romans 8:1 says, "Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus." The reason Christ died is to deliver us from the penalty of our sin(s); to relieve us from the guilt and shame thereof and to cleanse us of all unrighteousness. Because of His death and resurrection, we are automatically forgiven of all of our past, present and future sins. Those we participated in by choice and those that were forced upon us. When Christ said, "It is finished," He literally meant that the consequences of sin had been paid for in full and therefore completely forgiven. God holds them against us no more. There is no reason for us to live in the aftermath of our sin -- guilt.

You might be wondering by now just how it is that you still feel so guilty? One of two truths has taken place and I cringe as I think of what I am about to say. You have either not accepted God's amazing grace full of love and forgiveness or...you have not forgiven yourself. God loves you so much that He gave His only Son so that if you will believe in Him you will receive forgiveness and everlasting life. This is the most profound truth that you and I will ever embrace. God Almighty, the Creator of the universe has forgiven all of your past, present and future sins. And He longs to be intimate with you. Won't you invite Jesus into your life today. (There's a prayer at the bottom of this blog post that will lead you into relationship with Him.)

The later truth, not forgiving yourself, brings sadness to my heart. If the God of the universe can forgive you, then who are you not to forgive yourself. I say this not to add insult to the injury you already carry but to help you see the omnipotent (all powerful) love of God. He is majestic and holy. He is righteous and just. He is absolutely flawless. He is all knowing and all present. He knows the number of hairs on your head. He knows your coming in and your going out; your lying down and rising up; He knows all there is to know about you and He loves you unconditionally. If He can forgive you, shouldn't you forgive yourself?

How? First, if you've never asked Christ to be your Lord and Savior, do so now. His healing will begin immediately. Second, the Bible says, "Confess your sins and He will be faithful and just to forgive your sins and to cleanse you of all unrighteousness," (1 John 1:9). The goodness of God never ceases to amaze me when it comes to His forgiveness and healing power -- an out loud confession brings wonderful changes to any (wo)man's heart and mind. And third, let Romans 8:28 take root in your heart. "And we know that God causes all things to work together for the good of those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose." When you asked Jesus to be your Lord and Savior, God called you into His purpose. You now have the wonderful privilege of working out your faith which will in turn bring understanding to God's purpose for your life. In that purpose you will find a full measure of joy. And I know that immediately upon praying this prayer, you began to sense the "difference" that He is already making in your life. Your love for Him can only escalate!

Woman Beautiful, I hope that you will dump the guilt that Satan has tried relentlessly to keep you in bondage to. Believe the report of the Lord, God will turn all of your pain and shame into something beautiful for Him. And, all of your past sin will be worked beautifully, miraculously, for your good and...the good of many others.

Love and Blessings, Amanda

Father, God in heaven, thank You for giving Your Son as the payment for my sins. He did die on a cross and He was buried but three days later You raised Him to life again. Jesus, come into my life, be my Lord and my Savior. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit. You alone have delivered me from the guilt and the shame of my past. And You alone give me everlasting life. Thank you. Live in and through me today and everyday. I give my life wholly to You. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen. Amen!

...and Love Your Neighbor As Yourself

2011-01-21T20:50:00.000-06:00

as i write this blog from droid, it comes after a five day stay in orlando, florida. im not

getting my keypad to work quite right and it is really bugging me.

we are in a hotel in kissimmee, florida and i can tell thatg its not going to be a very restful night~it cost us $30; that should tell you alot! My husband says I m too paranoid.

I've had the opportunity to experience many parts of the world via the diverse people of this fun city: Vietnam to Mexico to China and England. Kindness has been offered by very nearly every person we have encountered. One man, who was very evidently less fortunate than me, quickly paid the 11 cents I had due on a purchase. Another offered .38 as I took out my coin purse. As I think about leaving, I wonder if I've been as kind as the many that I have encountered. I wonder if I have glorified God? Did they see Jesus in me? I certainly hope so.

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-05T20:15:00.001-06:00

It's the most wonderful time of the year, indeed! Holiday excitement is in full swing: decorating homes, buying gifts, baking, planning and partying. I must admit, I am not a big gift giver throughout the year so come Christmas time, I delight in giving gifts; both gifts that are just for fun and gifts that keep Christ in Christmas. If you don't know me, a person might think that I am a commercialized Christmas participant. I even dawn my Santa hat regularly during the month of December.

Just recently, a little girl asked why I was wearing my Santa hat. I replied, "Because I have the Christmas Spirit." She in turn inquired, "Where is the Christmas Spirit?" To which I answered while patting my chest, "It's right here, in my heart."

Many people fail to realize that Christmas really is a heart thing. Or, should I better explain it as a love thing. God's love for mankind came to earth in the form of a beautiful baby boy born some 2000 years ago. There are those who would argue the birth of Christ -- the amazing, sacrifical and unconditional love of Almighty God. A love that has been and will continue to be embraced by many. Truly, this love surpasses all of man's finite understanding and without exception is the greatest love ever expressed.

Squatting to her highth, I spoke with the little girl, asking her if she would like to have the Spirit of Christmas in her heart as well. She responded, "How can I get it in my heart?" "It's easy," I said. "If you will ask Jesus to come into your heart and be your Lord and Savior, He will put the Christmas Spirit in your heart." She stepped in very close to me, turned her body slightly and pressed her head against my face. She then whispered a few words of which I did not clearly understand. I said to her, "What? What did you say?" She replied very matter-of-factly, "I was talking to Jesus."

As I've considered our conversation many times since that sweet encounter, I've been reminded that God is indeed omniscient -- all knowing. It doesn't matter whether or not I understood her brief conversation with Him because He certainly does. And, He knows her heart. Just as He knows your heart. Do you have the Christmas Spirit? Is Jesus living in your heart; has amazing love captivated your total being?

This Christmas Season, it's my prayer that you too will possess the Christmas Spirit -- letting the love of God fill your celebrations with the peace and joy that passes all understanding. If you've never asked Jesus to be your Lord and Savior, I hope you will right now. It's easy, just ask Him.

"For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." Isaiah 9:6

He is the wonderful, mighty, everlasting Prince who is the Counselor, God and Father of sweet, unexplainable peace.
Love, Blessings, and a very Merry Christmas, Amanda

The Marital Bed, Remade

2010-08-16T22:29:00.000-05:00

Today on Lucy Ann Moll's Sisterhood of Beautiful Warriors show we talked about sex: boldly. I hope that I have encouraged both the Christian woman and the non-Christian woman. It's my goal to not only help you enjoy the amazing gift of sex that God has given you and your husband but to also bless you and encourage you in marriage -- growing it into a marriage that withstands the storms of life -- making it rock solid!

It is true, 5o% of all marriages end in divorce. It's my prayer that your marriage will be listed in the statistic of the half that make it. Please leave me a comment about today's show. I really want to hear from you.

If you'd like to order a signed copy of my book please go to: www.womanbeautiful.us - go to the page labeled SERVICES and scroll down to the bottom of the page; then follow the ordering directions.

Love and Blessings, Amanda

Sex, Submission & Spirituality: The Things Men Really Need To Know

2010-08-11T20:58:00.000-05:00

It is FINISHED! I hope to have my newest book in stores by winter 2011. I wanted to include a few brief excerpts from it. Please give me some feed back.

"One of Woman Beautiful's main goals is to love her man wholly: without reservation or fear in any area of their marriage. Although she knows that sex holds the second and sometimes first place position on his priority list, it only ranks about sixth, maybe even seventh or eighth, on her list of priorities. It's not that she doesn't love you, it's that she doesn't necessarily love sex." (This is part of the preface/introduction.)

"Outlined in the following chapters are what Woman Beautiful believes to be misconceptions held by her man. These misconceptions are not a reflection on his manhood, only on his knowledge and understanding of women and the differences God created between them." (This too is part of the preface/introduction.)

Sex: Misconception #1: Sex Is the Most Important Aspect of Marriage: "Because sex is so prominent in a man's needs, he sometimes gets it confused with respect. Therefore desiring sex often from his wife is, in his heart and mind, an outward expression of her respect toward him."

Misconception #2: We Can't Have A Good Marriage Without Having Good Sex: "Sadly, many women have experienced negative behavior in the area of sex. To tell her that good sex determines a good marriage grieves her at best."

Misconception #3: If You Love Me You Will Want to Have Regular Sex With Me: "It is safe to say that every man wants his wife to desire him in a red-hot kind of way. Unfortunately, the stress and strain of everyday life inhibits this loving feeling in women. Even though it was her desire prior to and just after marriage, it is more than likely that somewhere along the way, it was lost. Those differences I mentioned in the previous section move her from wanting you to wanting you to leave for a few days just to give her a break; to afford her the opportunity to simply be who she is and do what she wants to do without be concerned with trying to please her husband."

Submission: Misconception #4 To Submit Is To Do Exactly What I Say -- Without Question: "Submission is far more than doing exactly what you say. Heeding your every command is belittling at best. God united you two, giving you the command to become one flesh: one mind; one purpose; one dream; one destiny. Together with one goal: 'to love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your mind and with all your strength and your neighbor as yourself,' (Mark 12:30-31, NAS). God has purposed both of you to love him with all your being and each other selflessly. And through that love...to love others well. If your woman lives her life feeling like the hired hand, sex toy, entry doormat or cook/cleaning woman, then rest assured that submission is a very bad and negative word in her vocabulary."

Misconception #5: Submitting Means Becoming Who You Think She Needs To Be: "One of the most difficult obstacles women encounter in marriage involves being constantly molded and shaped into what her husband thinks she ought to be. Nothing disheartens a wife more than not being accepted for who she is."

Misconception #6: Submit No Matter Who It Might Hurt or Neglect: "Your woman truly loves you and wants to submit to you. In fact, it is by her Divine design that she longs to submit, especially to you. She cannot, however, if submitting goes against everything that she believes is best for her marriage, her children and herself. If submitting goes against God, her family and those things that are important to her, you will find yourself living with a woman who has become, or is in the process of becoming, bitter and angry; a woman full of hurt, resentment and unforgiveness."

Spirituality: Misconception #7: The Spiritual Side of Our Relationship is Insignificant In The Big Scheme of Things: "I truly believe that the lack of spiritual guidance in the home is the most detrimental of all behaviors toward the family: any family in any home. Husbands and fathers are berated in television sitcoms. They are made to look weak and mindless. Many sitcoms portray them as lazy losers who are incapable of providing for their family. Mom's rule the roost by making the decisions, thinking for the man of the house, and rearing children apart from and often times in direct opposition to his input, wishes or instruction."

Misconception #8: I Have to Make Her Become More Spiritual: "It is indeed your job to help your wife grow spiritually. It begins with accepting her where she's at and loving her in spite of her level of spiritual maturity. If you truly love and honor God and want your wife to be intimate with him, then pray for her. Encourage her without passing judgment. Make it easy for her to participate in women's events. Know and understand her deepest needs and desires and build on those."

Misconception #9: I Have To Make Her Less Spiritual: "I've found in many marriages that one half of the unit is usually far more connected to God than the other half. I've also found that men are more intimidated by women who are more spiritually mature than they are. God's purpose for you as a united team is to bring glory to him and invaluable productivity to your one-flesh relationship."

These excerpts barely scratch the surface of my newest book for men. I hope this little book says to men those things that we women have had difficulty saying to them.

Love and Mega Blessings, Amanda

In Response to "Karen said..."

2010-07-30T10:53:00.000-05:00

I want to respond briefly to Karen's comments to my previous blog.

A nice problem to have would be thinking to many positive thoughts. I've yet to meet any woman with that problem. I've come to understand, however, that one of the most difficult strongholds in my life, and lives of many women, is that of negative thinking. Those thoughts that consume us to the point that we are crippled in daily function and productivity. Sad but true, many women spend more time thinking about a bunch of "what ifs" rather than "what really is."

I want to encourage each of you to think on that which really is: you are a beautiful creation of Almighty God; the gifts He's placed in you can be matched by no one esle; God places value in everything that concerns you; the hopes, desires and dreams that you possess have been given to you by Him; and, He has promised to never leave you standing alone: without help, comfort, provision, peace, companionship or even friendship. More than anything, God wants you to delight in His Presence just as He delights in yours.

I would love to be able to tell you that I have had a picture perfect marriage for nearly 23 years. That would be a lie. My reality includes spending many days and nights without my husband and rearing 5 children in a unwanted lifestyle that seemed to be mostly on my own.

John's search for significance took him to race tracks scattered over 8 states. He spent countless hours working on his cars and helping others with their cars. Fortunately for me, I felt the draw of my heavenly Father and joyfully acccepted His invitation to know Him better and love Him more. So for as many hours that I spent without John, I was afforded the opportunity to spend many more with Him and our time together was and stil is priceless!

I must admit, I did go through many hours of negative thinking. I gave John tongue lashing after tongue lashing -- in my mind that is. I wondered why it was so easy for him to be gone for hours and days on end. What was so attractive to him that he could be woed in both his time and attention better than myself or our family. A matter that certainly didn't help: I could identify every woman at any track who viewed John as open game. Knowing that most men entertain flirting, that really concerned me. I clearly remember sitting at the table having my quiet time one morning. While praying I said to the Lord, "What if John has an affair?" The Lord immediately responded, "If I allow it,". I interrupted Him, finishing His sentence, "it will be okay." He simply smiled. Beloved that brought more peace to me than I can express to you. Holy, awesome, Almighty God loved me so much that if He allowed it, if He allowed it, I knew that it would have to be okay. Perhaps very painful, but it would certainly be okay. On that day I quit worrying about the women at the race tracks that John frequented. Instead, I prayed. Thanking God for John's protection, physically, sexually and spiritually. It wasn't long before I became able to identify the times when I doubted God's faithfulness and protection.

Woman Beautiful, if I'm caught up in negative thinking it's because I'm really doubting Him. I want to encourage you to know God better and love Him more. Identify the doubt you have and pray, "Lord I believe, help my unbelief."

Regarding, wifely responsibilities. I believe that every woman, Christian or non-Christian, has these responsibilities: responding positively to his sexual desires, planning and preparing meals, cleaning house, holding her husband accountable, praying for him, and respecting him. I realize that in today's society, the roles of husbands and wives, men and women, have been grossly destorted. The reality is men don't know if they're supposed to decorate the house or mow the lawn and women don't know if their supposed to work outside the home or care for the family. Sadly a very perverse sexual revolution and women's lib catapulted the ideas that women needed to be treated as men. Consequently, both genders are now very confused about their identities.

I know, many will argue, "I work too so he can help with the household responsibilites." I do not disagree with that, but I believe that it is the woman's position in the relationship to manage the home. For me, and hopefully for you it includes not doing all the cooking and cleaning, but doing most of it and by all means managing it if others help. I love it when John cooks for us, be it on the grill, scrambled eggs with toast or dinner out. And I know from his mealtime prayers and words of thanks that he appreciates when I cook for the family. It really concerns me when I hear young wives and mothers say, "I don't cook." I think, "What?!@#!? What do you mean you don't cook? What does your family eat?" And we wonder why we are battling childhood obesity?

There was a time in our marriage that John demanded that I cook 3 meals a day. I didn't always delight in the work, but I look back now and feel very good about the way I fed my family. Now, 23 years into our marriage, John often says, why don't we just get drive through so you don't have to cook. I shout "Woohoo!" on those days.

Over the years God's has enabled me to take my negative thoughts captive, trusting Him. He's encouraged me to become the woman, wife, mother, friend and now grandmother that He created me to be. My ride has been full of twists and turns, ups and downs, joys and sorrows, but one thing has remained the same, God's love and faithfullness. I am forever indebted to Him not only for the cross but also for all that He does and continues to do on my behalf and on behalf off all that is important to me.

Let the joy of the Lord be your strength. You are Woman Beautiful!

Love and mega Blessings, Amanda

Thoughts and Their Destructive Power

2010-07-27T19:15:00.000-05:00

Like many of you, I have warred with my thoughts on a regular basis. It doesn't matter what the situation might be: whether it concerned my husband, children, ministry, position in the workforce, church or society.

I believe our thoughts control us in ways that can be quite destructive -- to both the individual and those who are included in the thoughts. Let me expound. When a woman's husband isn't home when she thinks he should be, or perhaps when he said he would be, her thoughts begin running something like this: "I wonder where my husband is? He should have been home by now. I wonder who he's with? What's he doing? What if he's with another woman? That girl down at the convenience store flirts with him every time we go in there. She doesn't even care that I'm standing there with him. He's never said, but I think he kind of enjoys it. I'll kill him! No, I'll divorce him. The thought of him having an affair is more than I could bear. Why didn't he call me to let me know he would be late? How insensitive! He never thinks about anybody but himself. He knows I have dinner ready for him every evening! What a jerk! If I treated him this way he would never let me hear the end of it. But, what if there's been an accident? What if he's hurt. What if he can't call me? No, he's just fine. He just doesn't care enough about me or our marriage to give me a call. He probably stopped in at Joe's -- again. Gosh he makes me angry!" By the time he walks in the door, her thoughts have taken her from another woman to an accident to just hanging out with a friend. And by now, she's more mad than concerned. And we all know, if the woman ain't happy, ain't nobody happy.

The inconsideration a woman feels when her husband doesn't make the effort to give her a call when he's going to be late, is escalated by her own negative thoughts. She has gone from being worried to becoming down right mad! Whatever sweetly anticipated homecoming she may have planned for him will now be shot down by her hurt feelings. She's been on an emotional roller coaster for an hour and however good the day might have been, it now lies in ruins.

Unfortunately, she no longer cares to hear about his day. She doesn't want to be the loving compassionate wife that he needs, and the dinner that was once perfect is now cold. And he can heat it up himself!

Do you see how the wife's thoughts have brought more to the problem then need be? When he finally gets home, she learns that his reason for being late might or might not have been avoidable, but by then it is too late! She really doesn't care to hear any excuses. Bottom line, he could have called. If at no other time, as he was leaving the workplace or arriving at Joe's, which ever may have been the case.

The men reading this blog could very easily be saying, "Home-cooked supper, what's that?" If that is the case then Woman Beautiful let me encourage you to make some changes. This could be a reason why it becomes easy for men to take their time getting home from work each day.

When your man arrives home at the end of a work day, his thoughts are not on pleasing you but rather they are on his stomach and some down time. I know that sounds self-centered, but he has worked hard, is tired and can't wait to get his hunger pangs satisfied. He's then ready to move to his favorite chair, probably infront of the television. I know we live in an era when women do very little cooking. That is a tragedy. I believe the reason why so few women cook these days lies in the value for women, or should I say de-value, many of us have embraced -- more destructive thought patterns that have got to be overcome!

Believing the word of God as absolute truth, 2 Corinthians 10:5 implores us to take every thought captive and in doing so, we can knock down every false thing that sets itself up against what is really true. Woman Beautiful, this thought pattern that I've mentioned may or may not have be relevant for you. But I know that there is some area of negative thinking that jumps in and runs you right over. It may not be concerning your husband but perhaps concerns your friends and the way they relate to you, your service in church or the community and the way others perceive it, or your performance in the workplace and the recognition you receive.

In all of these relationships, the way you view yourself determines the way your thoughts will flow. Do you believe that you are a beautiful woman created by God with value and worth? Do you know that God loves you unconditionally and that he has purposed you for greatness? Do you believe that this world is a much better place because you are in it? Do you know that you have the power to change lives for the good and for eternity? And do you know that you have been created with a purpose and plan that no other woman can fulfill? Woman Beautiful, these are the true things that you and I need to be thinking about.

I want to encourage you to deal with the root of your thoughts. Perhaps your husband has given you good reason to "wonder" why he's late getting home. Discuss the problem with him after you've made-up but before it is too far down the road. Perhaps it's your own insecurities that have caused those fears. If so, deal with the root of those insecurities. If you'll be honest with yourself, you'll identify the hurt that has caused you to be fearful.

This one thing I know for sure, the wicked one is out to kill, still and destroy -- without question and almost without exception, he will start in your thoughts. Woman Beautiful, you have victory over your thoughts. Let them be life giving and not death bringing. Let them buildup -- not tear down. Let them bless and not curse, you or the people God's placed in your life.

Praying you'll experience victory in your mental and emotional beauty.

Love and Blessings, Amanda

www.twitter.com

2010-07-10T20:43:00.000-05:00

Tweeting has certainly become one of my most favorite things to do. Yes, it does take a little time, but I have found the twitter "helps" to be invaluable! There is so much in the way of tips, contacts, ideas, etc. that I eagerly sign-in just to see how I can benefit from the world's knowledge. If you've not connected with twitter yet, do so today!

Spiritual Beauty

2010-02-28T20:23:00.000-06:00

Spiritual beauty is all about your relationship with God. It is being changed a little bit more every day. It is being more holy today then you were last year and being more holy next year than you are today. Sister, you cannot grow in the likeness and glory of God if you are not spending time with him. It cannot be done. Quit believing the lie!

Woman Beautiful - pp. 101-102

What About Divorce

2010-02-21T20:52:00.000-06:00

The truth of the divorce matter is that God hates it. Malachi 2:16 says, "'For I hate divorce,' says the Lord, the God of Israel, 'and him who covers his garment with wrong, ' says the Lord of hosts, 'So take heed to your spirit, that you do not deal treacherously'" (NAS). God was talking to the Israelite men. They had been treating their wives and families treacherously, and it grieved God deeply. Because he placed such high value on the covenant between him and the man and woman at the beginning of time, he hates divorce. It's the most violent or treacherous act a (wo)man can make against their own family and ultimately against themselves and God.
Have you ever considered divorce? I would dare to say that most of us have. We seem to think that perhaps divorce would be better than the situation we're in. That, Woman Beautiful, is a lie straight....
Woman Beautiful, Embracing The Woman God Created You To Be, pp. 47-48.

Submission

2010-01-30T22:30:00.000-06:00

Ephesians 5:22 - Wives submit to your husbands as to the Lord.

For the past 24 hours I've been struggling with a direct order from my husband that I have no choice but to submit to. The command from God to submit to our husbands is not one given lightly nor should it be taken lightly. As a rule, Woman Beautiful can weigh her submission on two things: will what I've been told to submit to be sin against God, and will it hurt others? If it will do neither of these, then she, me, is to submit. Every time I think about it I begin to cry. Is it going to be fun? No. Will it better me? Yes. Will I look back and be glad I submitted? Absolutely! Will it glorify God? Amen, yes. Nonetheless, every time I think about it, I begin to cry. I've failed these past 24 hours at "taking my thoughts captive and making them obedient unto Christ, knocking down strongholds and every false pretense that sets itself up against the true knowledge of God," (2 Corinthians 10:5). Honestly, I've ripped my husband up one side and down the other. Giving him tongue lashes that have the power to bring death to many aspects of our marriage. Satan doesn't care whether or not John and I have difficulties in our marriage, what he wants to do is steal my joy. Because, "the joy of the Lord is my strength," (Nehemiah 8:10) and if satan can steel my joy, he steals my strength! "Far be it from me that I should sin against God by ceasing to pray for my husband," (1 Samuel 12:23). In praying for my husband, it will bring the forgiveness and healing that I need right now. The healing that can only come from the Lord. The joyful healing that enables me to keep on loving him -- when I'd rather pop him upside the head and call him an idiot. (Yes, I'm way human.) The healing that strengthens me to accept the command in willful obedience to God therefore, submitting unto John as unto the Lord. 14 months from now I will be thankful that John had the courage to do what he did. And, by Monday morning, I will have embraced the opportunity to sumbit and trust that God will indeed work all things out for my good because I love Him and I am called according to His purpose. You, Woman Beautiful, are too! Love and Blessings, Amanda

THE FACE OF POOR

2010-01-10T17:05:00.000-06:00

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways, acknowledge Him and He will direct your paths." (Proverbs 3:5-6, NAS.)

Have you ever wondered why the word of God says that our thoughts are not God's thoughts and our ways are not God's ways? When we, God's children, take on an attitude of knowing as much or more than he does, it goes without saying that we will act, think, reason and respond in our own understanding rather than that of God's. God's ways are not our ways: he says, love and forgive, we say, stand your ground, get even, make them pay. God says, be kind, others-centered, giving. We advise, say what you've got to say and do what you've got to do to get your point across and if you give, even more will be taken. God says, do unto others just exactly as you would have them do unto you. We say, you're going to get dumped on, you might as well dump first.

Just yesterday, 01-09-2010, I had the opportunity to visit with a street woman named Gloria. I happened to be at the church alone when she happened to finally stop in after walking by on previous occasions. Gloria needed help, she said and wanted to talk to the preacher. Even though she was very anti-preacher, anti-woman and anti-police, she needed help and would take her chances with talking to him. She asked if he was kind and was he easy to talk to. I assured her that he was and she asked if she could wait for him.

Throughout our 45 minute wait, she shared much of her life's story with me: from the days of growing up with a grandmother who loved the silent-motion picture screen to the death of her husband due to cancer just six weeks earlier. She very descriptively told me how preachers didn't want to help her with cash in case she wanted to use it for alcohol. Or how food cupboards wanted to pick-out her food for her even though the hotel she might be staying in only had a microwave therefore, the food needed to be microwaveable. And "a can opener, that would have been out of the question!" she added. She told me how on one occasion a police officer advised her to go to the Sheriff's Dept. to seek help. He didn't offer her a ride, but added that "he was sure she knew the way." As I sat listening, I couldn't help but wonder what this fragile creation of God has endured over her 75 years. I marveled at her knowledge of the big screen giants of yester-year and her accuracy of contextual scripture both memorized and quoted. Although she referred to herself as poor, I saw a woman rich in many ways. As she spoke, I thought. All that she said penetrated my heart and mind. Passing judgment comes easily; would I pass judgment today? Was this just an old woman whose face, lined with the wrinkles of struggle and pain, had become a very crafted con artist? Or, could I be entertaining an angel unaware?

What God whispered in my heart required an act of love and trust, not necessarily for Gloria, but for God. Would I fail the test or would I pass it with God glorifying colors? Would I obey and leave the rest to him? I reached into my pocket and pulled out one of the bills that I happened to have there. And I said, "Gloria, I don't know what kind of help, exactly, that you were going to ask the preacher for today, but I trust this will work." Her face lit up, she kissed the bill, and thanked me.

I invited Gloria to church and then asked her if I could pray with her. She said, "yes," and thanked me again. After we prayed, we stood to walk to the door and Gloria turned to me to say, "Amanda, I think God brought me to you today." I said, "Gloria, I think he did too."

Debt Retirement

2009-11-22T22:45:00.000-06:00

The day that I told God that I was done trying to make money so John would hopefully approve of me, he simply responded, "Finally." It seems like the Lord went to work in me immediately. This ugly monster I had entangled myself with would not be turned loose by any means other than God. I began crying out to him for help. I had no job and a mountain of debt. My monthly payments were is excess of six hundred dollars. I eventually fell behind on my monthly payments, and before long creditors were ringing my phone several times a day. This period in my life became darker each time the phone rang. Then one day, broken before the Lord, I told him he had to help me because I could not make the payments. On that day, he told me he would pay off me debt in a lump sum. I believed him!

Woman Beautiful pg. 162

Matthew 6:33 But, seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things will be added unto you.

Jesus - Son of the Living God, Messiah. Thank you, Lord for giving Your absolute best for me.

Happy Thanksgiving - Love and Amazing Blessings, Amanda

Owner or Manager?

2009-11-15T00:06:00.000-06:00

My sin issue was not that I was a poor money manager plagued by a generational curse, but that I refused to surrender to God as the owner of all things. Understanding generational curses and how they affect us enables us to confront the problem head-on and make necessary changes under the power of the Holy Spirit. A person has to not only acknowledge God as the owner of the earth and all that is in it, but she must also surrender to his ownership. I remember listening to a CD in which the speaker told me to walk into my house, look around, and say out loud, "It's not mine; it all belongs to God;" to look into my wallet or check book and say, "It's not mine; it all belongs to God;" to get into my vehicle and say, "It's not mine; it belongs to God." For several weeks, I did just that. I still do if I try to do my own thing with God's estate.

There is one thing God had to reveal to me in the ownership realm: in John's eyes, he owned the salary check, and I was to manage it for him. Woman Beautiful, I don't know how you and your husband manage your household income, but I do know this, God owns it all and he has made your husband chief executive officer over your household, including the money in it. Therefore, your husband has to manage it like he owns the piece of God's estate entrusted to him. We all know that the owner of anything treats it better than the hired hand. I had to begin treating our finances with respect toward John, which ultimately pleased and glorified God.

Woman Beautiful, pp. 173-174

For I know the plans I have for you declares the Lord, plans to help you and not hurt you, plans to give you hope and a great future. Jeremiah 29:11

Financial Beauty

2009-11-09T23:01:00.000-06:00

Financial beauty has definitely been my most difficult challenge in the Woman Beautiful process. As musch as I wanted to be pleasing and obedient to God and pleasing and submissive to my husband, nothing seemed to take root in my heart and mind in the area of financial stewardship. That is until I opened my eyes one day and realized I had managed to incur twenty thousand dollars worth of credit card debt. The guilt and shame did not compare, though, to the brokenness I felt between God and me, and most certainly between John and me.

Woman Beautiful pg. 159

The rich rules over the poor and the borrower becomes the lender's slave. Proverbs 22:7, NAS

Know Your Body

2009-10-30T00:20:00.000-05:00

The word says that, "All things work together for the good for those who love Him and are called according to His purpose" (Romans 8:28), and I believe that firmly! If it weren't for PMS, I may have gone through life letting the inappropriate behavior of others just roll off my back. But because the difficulties of life were amplified during certian times of the month, it moved me to cry out to God and seek his help, healing and change in others but especially in myself. There's not too much worse than acting like an idiot rather than a loving wife, mom or friend.

page 154-155

Beauty Tip: Spend time in fasting and prayer each week.

Physically Beautiful

2009-10-21T22:16:00.001-05:00

What is beauty? A question many of us women try to answer in the way we look, our physical appearance.

While driving home from the dentist today, a 40 mile trek that I really enjoy, I began thinking about the word beautiful. And, as often happens, my mind began to wander. I've been asked by many people, mostly men, when will I write a book for men? Before I can answer, the next question usually pertains to the title: will it be called Man Handsome? So, today, my mind bounced from the word beauty to the word handsome. Although handsome is a fine word, I believe it would be less captivating than the title I've decided on. The word beautiful, on the other hand encompasses every character trait, attribute and physical appearane we women want to possess; in every area of our lives. Beautiful is often used to describe food, music, something visual, an attitude, a phrase spoken, even a memory. Beauty far surpasses our physical appearance. It includes everything about us: personality, appearance, internal wellness, relationships, our home and attitude. Woman, you truly are beautiful, believe it!

Actually, I am currently working on a book for men and it is entitled, Sex, Submission and Spirituality, The Things Men Really Need To Know. (A book for men written from a woman's perspective.) Without exception, I get a very positive response from both men and women. Both genders are eager to read this next book.

Woman Beautiful, delight in the beauty of our Creator. It is in His amazingly beautiful image that you have been fashioned.

Then the King will desire your beauty. Because He is your Lord, bow down to Him. Psalm 45:11

Eating For The Right Reasons

2009-10-01T21:12:00.000-05:00

The main eating problems with American people today are that we eat for the wrong reasons and we don't stop until we're stuffed. I can remember the day God revealed this to me about myself. I was crying alligator sized tears in my plate while shoveling the food in. Food does comfort, but it is artifical and temporary comfort at best.

Woman Beautiful, page 140

She girds herself with strength and makes her arms strong, (Proverbs 31:17).

You've Been Invited

2009-09-21T19:54:00.000-05:00

God did not create you a robot being programmed with limited and controlled behavior, but he gave you a mind, body and spirit giving you the provilege to choose. It is only by your choice that God enjoys sweet fellowship with you... .

Page 99-100

For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to help you and not hurt you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11

Be Intimate With God

2009-09-11T20:39:00.000-05:00

If Woman Beautiful wants to walk in the most fruitful, beautifully decorated life, she first has to step into a realtionship with God. This step is the most important and powerful step you will take. It is also the easiest. God will make you Woman Beautiful, changing you from the inside out!

Woman Beautiful, pg 99

I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord. Plans to help you and not hurt you, plans to give you hope and an amazing future. Jeremiah 29:11 (My emphasis added.)

2009-08-26T21:17:00.000-05:00

It took me a very long time to look at my husband with respect and honor. The hurt he seemed to inflict came so frequently, I felt as if I were constantly forgiving him and trying to start fresh in our marriage. I gave him lash after lash with my thoughts...

Woman Beautiful, pg. 39

Jeopardy

2009-08-15T12:59:00.000-05:00

Sometimes the lies we believe put us in jeopardy: double-trouble, accident, risk, danger, peril; you get the picture. My favorite synonym for jeopardy is "unexpected undertaking." Sadly, lies can be told to us by people we love and care about. Such lies include, "you'll never amount to anything," "you can't do anything right," "it's your fault," and the list goes on. These lies produce fruit in every person that will, years later, cause each of us to undertake behavior that we did not ask for, want to embrace or really ever expect. An example of this unexpected undertaking of behavior can be found in a young adolescent woman who constantly hears ridicule about her appearance, immaturity, or way of thinking. As the years role by, if she is not loved, accepted and encouraged she will be awakened, very rudely, as an adult with baggage that is detrimental to both her and the people she loves. That baggage can look like anger, low esteem for herself, life, God, her purpose and the people around her. She can, and often does, turn to food and promiscueity, as well as drinking large quantities of alcohol, for comfort and relief. Other young women turn to a very destructive behavior known as "cutting" to help ease the pain of the ridicule that still haunts their mind and emotions. What we often fail to see in other women is the deep, deep hurt they carry because of the lies of the past they continue to carry.

During the month of August we are focusing on relationship at the Woman Beautiful blogspot so, my question to you today is: How are you speaking to and relating with the Woman Beautifuls in your life? Are you building them up with kind words of love and acceptance or are you placing them in "jeopardy?"

Beauty Tip: Consider your words and actions today, make them reflective of the Savior who lives within you. Love somebody "well" today; let your words and your actions toward them say, "You are valuable."

Greater love has no Woman Beautiful than this, that she lay down her life for her friends. John 15:13

Love and Blessings,

Amanda

The New House

2009-08-11T16:27:00.000-05:00

I am really begining to take hold of Haggai, the little book in the Bible between Zephaniah and Zechariah. Although it's talking about the House of the Lord, Woman Beautiful can apply it to her own house (her inner woman and her family) and trust God to raise up a new and improved house that is better than her house(s) was previously. Because we are the place, house, in which the Living God dwells, we too should be building up this house. So, my question to you today is, "What shape is your house in?" Is it in need of maintenance? Have you nelected it by neglecting your time with the Lord?

Haggai 2:6-9 "For thus says the Lord of hosts, 'Once more in a little while, I am going to shake the heavens and the earth, the sea also and the dry land. 'And I will shake all the nations; and they will come with the wealth of all nations; and I will fill this house with glory,' says the Lord of hosts. The silver is Mine, and the gold is Mine,' declares the Lord of hosts. The latter glory of this house will be greater than the former,' says the Lord of hosts, 'and in this place I shall give peace,' declares the Lord of hosts."

Obey the Lord, build up His house and watch him bring peace to all that concerns you. Selah and Hallelujah and Amen!

Bible Fact: Haggai is found between the only two "Zs" in the Bible.

Persecution

2009-08-07T23:13:00.000-05:00

Woman Beautiful, be confident of this, "all things work together for good for those who love Him and are called according to His purpose." Romans 8:28

Woman Beautiful, what kind of persecution did you endure today? God's purpose for that persecution is "good." Your good, the good of those involved and the good of His kingdom coming, here on earth, just as it is in heaven.

Pastor Duane Sheriff has an excellent 4 CD teaching series on persecution that is yours free for the asking. You can call 580-920-1791 or email tapes@dsheriff.org and ask for the CD series Persecution, Knowing What It Is, and Know How to Deal With It. All of his teaching CDs are Free. No shipping, no handling, not cost. If you can give to help off-set the expense to produce, handle and ship the CDs that' great but, if not, the CDs are yours anyway. Duane Sheriff Ministries has given away some 7 million teaching audio and video tapes and now CDs over the past 20 plus years. All for the Kingdom and glory of God.

Becoming Others Centered

2009-08-06T23:11:00.000-05:00

"Relationships make Woman Beautiful tick. Those relationships rich with the qualities of trust, acceptance, approval, and value move her into a mode of willful change and betterment. She desires to become all that God created her to be, and she knows that this change is better and different than she is today. With the right heart-attitude and mindset she will far exceed anything man has expected and even demanded that she try to be."

An excerpt from the book.