The Garden of Friendship: Great Blog Post

We used to water those gardens oh-so-frequently, but we haven't talked about our friendships in a while.

This link is from Growing in Grace Online, and the post is entitled: What Happened to the Friendship?

Enjoy!

We've Been Away

Well, um .... hello! We have been enjoying our summer a little too much I think. Sara and I have been busy this summer and have just not been able to keep up with our little corner of blogland. I hope to get back here in a few weeks, after I get settled into the routine of homeschooling my little one for preschool. Sara will be starting hygiene school and will be very busy, so we'll be happy to hear from her whenever she gets a spare moment. I told her not to worry about blogging while she gets acclimated to her new school.
Hope you are enjoying your summer. We'll be back!!

A Lesson from Daniel

I'm sitting here, paging through my Bible. I have been studying the book of Daniel because our church is having VBS soon, and this is the theme for the week.

Most children know the story of Daniel and the Lion's Den. It is probably one of the most popular Bible Stories! But as I sit here reminding myself of the details, I am just feeling so thankful for the way God orchestrates the details of our lives.

Consider Daniel, taken from his home to serve the king, and given another name. All unfortunate events, if you look at them at face value.

But God as always was controlling all the little details - those details that would come together for the good of His child.

There are times in our lives when we feel anxious and insecure about the little details that we can't control.

How thankful we should be that we are not in control, and that a loving, merciful Father is teaching us and molding us.

His Time. His Purpose. His Glory.

It is as simple as that.

How thankful I am.

Summer Reading-The Tenant of Wildfell Hall

I know, it's been awhile since the last post. Summer has been busy and gone way too fast! I hope you are all enjoying the warmer weather and the fun times this season brings with it. A couple months ago I read The Tenant of Wildfell Hall by Anne Bronte, and I've been waiting for the chance to sit down and share my thoughts on it. I was very surprised that I loved this book so much, because the Bronte sisters have a style that leans more toward the morose, depressing side. While The Tenant of Wildfell Hall is very dark in some parts, it also contains many Biblical truths and deals with a situation we girls can really learn from. I'd LOVE for all of you to go out and read the book, so let me warn you now, I'm going to be giving away some spoilers in the next few paragraphs (but not too many I hope!).

Let's begin with Gilbert Markham, a simple farmer with a cozy country family. He lives with his mother, sister Rose, and impish brother Fergus. He has no doubt in his mind that he will marry the pretty but spoiled and selfish Eliza Millward, the daughter of the town's pastor. That is, until the mysterious widow Helen Graham and her son move into Wildfell Hall-a secluded old home in the town. Soon the young widow becomes the target of speculation and gossip as the townspeople attempt to figure out her past before she moved into the Hall. Gilbert is immediately turned off by Helen's stiff and severe personality. Trying to befriend her young son, Arthur, he notes how over-protective she is of him and goes to great lengths to keep him out of society. An accomplished artist, Helen Graham makes her living in the world by painting beautiful landscapes-but all these are painted under an alias.

By winning the trust of little Arther, Gilbert slowly begins to find a place in the heart of the mysterious Mrs. Graham. Soon the shallow Eliza Millward means nothing to him as he finds himself taken in by Helen's deep thoughts and character. Although the two define their relationship as a brother and sister, Gilbert begins to feel much more for Helen, and attempts to tell her of these new feelings. Everytime the subject is brought up, she expresses how impossible it is for them to even think such thoughts, leaving Gilbert curious and perplexed. Another mysterious person in the plot is Mr. Lawrence, the landlord of Wildfell Hall, and a much too frequent visitor at the place. As nasty rumors begin to spread about Helen Graham's past, Gilbert is the first to rise to her defense. However, a confusing circumstance leads him to believe the worst of her, and he to forsakes her.

Unfortunately, Gilbert makes some serious mistakes and acts out of anger and even violence. Helen confronts him with his strange and sudden behavior, and as he expresses what he believes is the truth, she gives him a window into her past life-her very detailed journal. What Gilbert finds in Helen's diary surprises him very much, and more than 50% of The Tenant of Wildfell Hall consists of her journal entries until the last few chapters. It sounds like this would be boring, but it's not. It's so intriguing learning about Helen's life from her viewpoint (the first and last part of the book is from Gilbert's) that I found it hard to put the book down!

*Some spoilers ahead, but I'll try not to be too detailed!*

As Gilbert sits down to read this very long narrative, he is introduced to a very young Helen. She lives with her aunt and uncle because her mother is dead and her father is too busy to raise her. Helen also tells us that she has a brother, but they to live in different locations. Being somewhat close to her aunt, Helen has meaningful conversations with her, especially ones about marriage. Her aunt asks her if she ever thinks about matrimony, and Helen responds that she does, but thinks there are very few men that she should like to marry. Although Helen's aunt is not perfect and does not always choose the best suitors for her, she gives some sound advice.

(To Helen)"Keep a guard over your eyes and ears as the inlets of your heart, and over your lips as the outlet, lest they betray you in a moment of unwariness...First study; then approve; then love."-Helen's aunt.

(To her aunt)"I know there is truth and sense in what you say; but you need not fear me, for I not only should think it wrong to marrya man that was deficient in sense or in principle, but I should never be tempted to do it; for I could not like him, if he were ever so handsome, and ever so charming, in other respects...So set your mind at rest."-Helen.

However, one man enters Helen's life and turns it upside down. He is the young and charming Arthur Hungtingdon, who steals her heart and dismisses all her previous thoughts on men who are "deficient in sense and principle". At parties and social events, Arthur Hungtingdon shows Helen profuse attention, which flatters her even more. Helen's aunt begins to fear this young man's attentions, and continues in her warnings to her niece.

"Do you remember, Helen, our conversation the night but one before we left Staningley?"
"Yes, aunt."
"And do you remember how I warned you against letting your heart be stolen from you by those unworthy of its possession...and did you you not say that your affection must be founded on approbation; and that unless you could approve and honour and respect, you could not love?"
"Yes, but I do approve, honour, and respect---"
"How so, my dear? Is Mr. Hungtingdon a good man?"
"He is a much better man than you think him."
"Is he a good man?"
"Yes--in some respects. He has a good disposition."
"Is he a man of principle?"
"Perhaps not, exactly; but it is only for want of thought: if he had some one to advise him, and remind him of what is right."

Does any of this conversation sound familiar to you? Have you heard friends who have said this, or have you yourself spoken words similar to these? It's funny how our past ideas on relationships can change when a young man enters into our lives. Helen is absolutely glowing in the attentions of Mr. Hungtingdon. Believing herself to be in love, she thinks she can change all of Arthur's imperfections and impish bevavior.

Arthur Hungtingdon continues to pursue Helen, but teases her cruelly by pretending to be in love with someone else. She is hurt by his fickle attentions, but it's a clear warning to her as well. However, Helen doesn't take this as a warning when Arthur declares his love for her and asks for her hand in marriage. Overwhelmed with joy and happiness, Helen says she will accept if her uncle and aunt approve. They do eventually permit the match, although Helen's aunt is still wary of Arthur. He agrees to go to church with the family, and Helen delightedly takes this as a sign of spiritual maturity (even though he scribbles on his note pad through most of the sermon). Another warning bell goes off for Helen when Arthur reveals his true character. In a conversation with her, he unashamedly refers not only to gambling, but to leading his friend to drowning his sorrows in drinking alcohol. Helen is appalled and begins to rethink her decision, but still decides to marry Arthur.

After her marriage to Arthur, Helen is happy and content, but reveals that he is not the young man she thought him at first. He is wilful, conceited, and used to getting his own way. Helen, blindly in love, strives to please him. After a few more months, Arthur begins to show more of his true colors as he grows tired of the country life. He teases Helen unmercifully and shows immaturity, and the procession only goes from bad to worse. His so-called friends are drunks and lazy, and Helen has to put up with their visits from time to time. The next couple of years are absolute misery for her, and even the bearing of their son does nothing to bring them closer as husband and wife.

There is so much more I could write, but I know I've already written more than I had planned! So I will stop here, and even though I have revealed much of the plot, there is SO much more to the story, and I really encourage you to get a copy from the library. Throughout The Tenant of Wildfell Hall, I couldn't help but think how so many girls today make this very same mistake when they marry men whom they claim they can change after the marriage. As girls we have to be so careful, because we are more weak and vulnerable when it comes to our emotions. It's so easy to say that we'll be strong and able to resist a handsome man who shows romantic interest. Do you struggle with this? Sometimes I do, especially when I was younger. Helen had plenty of warning, but she still insisted upon marrying Arthur, and she was miserable for it later on. What I really loved about Helen though was her constant trust and faith in God. Although she didn't make very wise choices at the beginning, Helen knew that she could lean on Him through these trials.

Toward the end of the book, after Arthur has read Helen's journal and goes to visit her, he repents of his misconduct and begs her forgiveness. He still feels a romatic attraction to her, but Helen knows how wrong it is for her to give her love to him. At this point she thinks it is impossible for them to ever be together except in Heaven, but Gilbert is heartbroken and can't even bear the thought. Helen gives a beautiful illustration to him to make him better understand from her point of view.

"I do know that to regret the exchange of earthly pleasures for the joys of Heaven, is as if the grovelling caterpillar should lament that it must one day quit the nibbled leaf to soar aloft and flutter through the air, roving at will from flower to flower, sipping sweet honey from their cups, or basking in their sunny petals. If these little creatures knew how great a change awaited them, no doubt they would regret it; but would not all such sorrow be misplaced?"

This is one of my favorite quotes in the book; it shows how strong Helen's faith is even when she is feeling deep sorrow. It very much reminds me of Jane Eyre when she is explaining to Mr. Rochester why she cannot be with him after finding out about his wife. These are strong character traits that I hope I can show when faced with a difficult decision. When I first picked up this book from the libary, I never thought it would make me think so much. Out of all the Bronte sisters, I knew the littlest about Anne, but now I am excited to check out her other works. So girls, if you're looking for yet another book to add to your reading list this summer, add The Tenant of Wildfell Hall. You won't be disappointed. I hope you like it as much as I did, and I'd love to hear from you if you have read it or plan to!


Love in Christ,
Sara

Honoring Our Fathers

So Father's Day is coming up this weekend. Do you have anything planned? My husband sweetly made breakfast for me on Mother's Day and gave me a wonderful, restful experience. For this Father's Day, we'll be on vacation, but my mom, sis, and I are still hoping to give our men a nice day!

My Hero
As I ponder the love that I saw in his eyes,
A Godly love, given without compromise....
I recall many times that he stood by my side,
And prodded me on with great vigor and pride.
His voice ever confident, firm and yet fair,
Always speaking with patience, tenderness and care.
The power and might of his hands was so sure,
I knew there was nothing we couldn't endure.
It's true, a few others provided insight,
Yet, he laid the foundation that kept me upright.
He's the grandest of men to have lived on this earth,
Although he's not royal by stature or birth.
He's a man of great dignity, honor and strength.
His merits are noble, and of admirable length.
He's far greater than all other men that I know,
He's my Dad, he's my mentor, my friend and hero.

-Poem by Debbie Hinton Young

Here is an idea of a cake you could make for Dad. I think this is SO cute!

So happy Father's Day to my Daddy who will always be my hero, my husband - anyone would be blessed to have him as a Dad, and to my Father-in-law who has so willingly welcomed me into his family!

Imitate Christ

The Lord Jesus "is altogether lovely." Then if I want to be lovely, I must be like Him, and the model for me as a Christian is Christ. Copy Jesus: "He is altogether lovely." We want to have Christ's zeal, but we must balance it with His prudence and discretion. We must seek to have Christ's love for God, and we must feel His love for men, His forgiveness of injury, His gentleness of speech, His incorruptible truthfulness, His consecration to His Father's business.

Oh, that we had all this! For depend on it--whatever other pattern we select, we have made a mistake; we are not following the true classic model of the Christian artist. Our master model is the "altogether lovely" one. How sweet it is to think of our Lord in the double aspect as our example and our Savior! Oh, when I come to my Lord Jesus, not only do I get rid of my sins, but also I see my spots in the light of His perfect character; and I am humbled and taught to follow after holiness.

~Charles Spurgeon

Ask the Philippians 4:8 Question

My current devotional book is Simplify Your Spiritual Life by Donald S. Whitney. There is a short chapter on Philippians 4:8, and I thought I'd share it with you all:

"When Meditating On A Verse of Scripture, it's usually much easier to answer specific questions about it than to think about the text without any guidance or direction at all.

Recently, I was meditating on Philippians 4:8. It occurred to me that the directions given here for the kinds of things we should meditate on could serve as a list of things to look for in any verse I consider. As a result ... I developed a series of questions based upon these things.

But while much of our meditation begins with Scripture and then applies to life, it is also valid to begin by meditating on something in your life and then taking that to Scripture. You might reflect, for example, on the possible reasons God allowed something to happen to you, but then ultimately submit your thoughts to the sound foundation of Scripture, such as a text like Psalm 31:14-15.

In either case, that is, whether meditating on something in your life -- an event, an experience, an encounter with someone, even a part of creation -- or whether meditating on a verse or story in the Bible, the Philippians 4:8 questions can be a helpful guide. In fact, when thinking about anything, try asking:

• What is true about this, or what truth does it exemplify?
• What is honorable about this?
• What is right about this?
• What is pure about this, or how does it exemplify purity?
• What is lovely about this?
• What is admirable, commendable, or reputation strengthening about this?
• What is excellent about this (in other words, excels others of this kind)?
• What is praiseworthy about this?"

Mothers Day

Mother's Day is Sunday, and I wanted to post some quick ideas for showing your mom know how much you love her!

Here is a recipe for blueberry streusel muffins that I love to make ahead. I usually put them in foil wrap in the oven and set the timer so that they will be nice and warm when we wake up in the morning.

Blueberry Streusel Muffins

Ingredients:
1/2 cup butter, softened
3/4 cup white sugar
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup milk
1 1/2 cups blueberries

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 tablespoons butter, chilled

Directions:
1.Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Grease muffin cups or line with paper muffin liners.
2.In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Stir in the eggs one at a time, beating well with each addition, then stir in the vanilla. In a separate bowl, stir together 2 cups flour, baking powder, and salt.
3.Stir the flour mixture into egg mixture alternately with milk. Fold in blueberries. Spoon batter into prepared muffin cups. In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons flour, brown sugar and cinnamon. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle topping over unbaked muffins.
4.Bake in preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED © 2009 Allrecipes.com
Printed from Allrecipes.com 5/7/2009

You may want to prepare a tray table with a cloth napkin and a sparkling glass of juice. Her muffin will of course have been sliced and smeared with butter or her favorite spread. While she is eating, you can prepare her a steaming mug of coffee or tea. Put her Bible or her devotional book on the tray too, and then shut the door and let her enjoy.

Single and....Happy?

Bethany asked about being prepared for singleness if that is God's will. I think that at some point in our lives, we girls have asked ourselves this question. Do feelings of insecurity and jealousy plague you as you watch close friends happy in relationships? To me, it's always a reminder of my own singleness. Over time, I have been able to push past these feelings even though they still creep in once in a while.

All throughout my teen years, I caught myself daydreaming about the special young man who would one day come into my life and sweep me off my feet. As I continued to dwell on this, the more discontent I became. I still have to check myself when I get carried away with my thoughts. As my mom likes to tell me, I'm the hopeless romantic, especially after watching a Jane Austen or Elizabeth Gaskell movie. Are these thoughts OK to have? I think so. It is Godly to have that desire to be a wife and mom. I can't wait for the day the man that God has created for me comes into my life. But if these thoughts take our minds off what is truly important-Jesus Christ-then there is a problem. I have been guilty of this, and I'm sure you can relate.

Over the past year, these feelings of discontentment have gradually faded as I have grown closer to Christ. I truly believe that I can be happy being single if that is what God has for me. He is all I need to be fulfilled. No man, no matter how handsome, Godly, and attentive, can fill that gap in my heart like Jesus can. Remember when Job, instead of cursing God, gave praise when nearly everything was taken away from him? I always wondered how I would react in a situation like that, and to be honest, I don't think I would act as Job. Although Job felt a keen loss when his family was killed, he was able to push past his grief and bless his Heavenly Father. That is true love and devotion.

“ Naked I came from my mother’s womb,

And naked shall I return there.

The LORD gave, and the LORD has taken away;

Blessed be the name of the LORD.”

In all this Job did not sin nor charge God with wrong.

Job 1:20-22

In 1 Corinthians 7:1-9, Paul discusses marriage and singleness. In verses 7-8, Paul expresses his desire that "all men were even as I myself. But each one has his own gift from God, one in this manner and another in that...it is good for them (referring to the widows and unmarried) if they remain even as I am." I know this sounds silly, but when I was younger and I would read this passage, I always thought Paul was bitter because he wasn't married himself. As I matured, I gradually realized what Paul meant. I think we all know how distracted young people in love can get, and married couples are easily sidetracked by busy schedules, financial burdens, and family obligations. A single Christian man or woman can serve God more freely without any of these distractions as well as building on his or her relationship with Him. Look at the ministry Paul had-he was able to travel and reach out to countless Christians in the churches without feeling guilty for leaving his family behind.

No matter what God has in store for you and me-whether it be singleness or marriage-know that He loves you with an everlasting love. We can serve God as single and married women and be perfectly content in both situations-if our hearts are right with God. Gladys Aylward and Amy Carmichael never got married, but I can't think of two women who served God with such a passion as these two. They loved God so strongly that they risked their lives for His sake and the sake of others. So Bethany, I hope I've answered your question. I struggle with this area as well, and I'm still learning a lot. Girls, I would love to hear your thoughts on this if you have any to add!

In Christ,
Sara

"Blessed are the single-hearted, for they shall enjoy much peace. If you refuse to be hurried and pressed, if you stay your soul on God, nothing can keep you from that clearness of spirit which is life and peace. In that stillness you will know what His will is."

~Amy Carmichael

Being Set Apart

We have no choice about being in the world. We have to shop and eat, and even if you work or school at home, you still have to make contact with the world! For Christians, we have to find the balance of being in the world without being of it. We do know this:

We are commanded to be holy.
Holiness means being set apart.
Being set apart means that we do live in this world, we need to be respectful of others, but we must be different.

When I was a college student and in the work world, I used to ask myself if my colleagues would know that I was different without me telling them. There were times when I had to speak up and speak out (not in my nature I assure you!) There were other times when nothing needed to be said. I just needed to remember this verse:

"For of Him and through Him and to Him are all things, to whom be glory forever. Amen." Romans 11:36

How can we go wrong if we hold this verse before us - ALWAYS!

But not of it is such an important phrase. This is the qualifier to the inevitability of living in our world today and being exposed to all the influences of it. How can we be IN the world, rub noses with people that live in it, but still be holy and reflect holiness? This is something we need to continuously strive for in every aspect of our lives.

Laura asked about being unequally yoked with unbelievers, both male and female. I think we'd all agree that this isn't always easy.

Personality -wise, I am very outgoing, and I like to have friends. Sometimes at college, I had to be okay with being alone. I found myself a nice group of friends that I felt comfortable with, and that respected my beliefs. They knew that there were certain things I wouldn't do. They were ok with that. I was a commuter student, so I wasn't exposed to some of the temptations that dorm life brought.

There were a couple of times that I was asked "out" by a young man, and other times that I could tell that a guy was pointedly flirting with me. Girls, I hate to hurt others feelings! My parents had to help me learn how to hold myself separate from these interactions. There were a couple of times that I really needed their help with how to deal with a situation.

Once you start opening yourself to intimate interactions (by intimate I mean close and binding) with people that are too different from you, it becomes easier and easier to continue to do so. Little by little you may be opening yourself more without even realizing it.

I had a wonderful college experience. Late afternoon study sessions, squinting over immunology and organic chemistry flash cards until we could barely see. Fun lunches at the Community Commons. Oceanography and Conservation Biology field trips. Sweating over our Senior Seminar speeches. So you see, I wasn't slinking around or hiding in a corner!

I know that some do not agree with going to college outside of the home, and I'm not here to discuss that, although I truly do understand!! I both went to college and worked outside of the home before I met my husband and got married. There were many times that I was so thankful that I had a hedge of protection.

We don't all come from the same backgrounds. I can't pretend to know what your family make up is. My parents are strong Christians and we have an excellent and open relationship. If you have this -- please, by all means, take advantage of it.

Listen to the wise counsel of your parents, for they are sent by God. This is a hedge of protection.

Fellowship with the believers that you attend church with, and other likeminded believers, for this is a hedge of protection.

Be accountable to your parents, pastors, trusted friends, or any other godly influences in your life.

Stay constantly familiar with God's Word. Let His Word be always in your heart, mind, on your tongue. This is a defense against falling into temptation and a hedge of protection.

This post is getting really long! I will close now, with the possibility that we may talk more about this issue. We'll see what Sara has to add as well. If you have any more questions you would like the Girl Inside to cover on this topic, or if you have written a post on this subject, please email me!

Just stopping in quickly to share ...

... a beautiful post that I just read! I love this blog that I discovered via the Ultimate Blog Party. It's called At the Well ... In Pursuit of Titus 2. I hope this post is a blessing to you.

Sara and I are working on some posts that will cover some of the topics you brought up in your Spring Giveaway Surveys. Look for those soon!

Blog Feature: Bethany

I first met Bethany through her older sister Elise, who is one of my dear bloggy friends. Bethany is a very busy young lady who has a heart for the Lord. She takes incredible pictures and loves her family very much.


Bethany has three blogs:

1. For His Glory, which is her main blog.


2. The World Through a Camera Lense, which features some of her lovely photography.


3. Simple Tidbits of Truth, which has quotes and excerpts of books that she is reading.

By all means, go visit Bethany and peruse some of her posts. Here is one of my favorites for starters:

Created To Be Their Helpmeet

Congratulations Bethany!

Last night, my husband picked Bethany's name out of a bag, so she is the winner of our Spring Giveaway! Congratulations, Bethany. Please contact me with your home address. Bethany's blogs will be featured on The Girl Inside in our next post, and she will receive the book Set Apart Femininity by Leslie Ludy!

Here is the link to Bethany's answers to our survey for your reading pleasure.

Giveaway!

Just so all of you know, the winner will be announced Tuesday, March 31st! The winner of the contest will get the book Set Apart Femininity as well as their blog featured on The Girl Inside!

Book Review: Set-Apart Femininity

There are few books that leave a great impression on me after I've read them-Set-Apart Feminity is one of the few that have. The author, Leslie Ludy, has a heart for the girls of this generation, and brings a message that young women desperately need to hear. In her previous book, Authentic Beauty, the running theme throughout was to remain pure in a society that only mocks at such a thing called purity. Also, a relationship with the "Prince", Jesus Christ, is greatly encouraged, and Leslie continuously brings out the point that He is truly all we need.

In Set-Apart Femininity, Leslie continues to build on these two points, but goes even further. Referring back to several experiences in her public school, she learned many lessons the hard way, and witnessed the flimsy pop culture that took hold of herself and her classmates. Parents of younger girls may want to be cautioned, as some of the information Leslie shares features more mature content.

The extensive chapter on prayer really got my attention, and has encouraged me to be more fervent in my prayer life. Leslie speaks boldly on issues concerning the media and how it can draw our minds away from our Heavenly King. Her call is for girls to embrace a sacred femininity-the kind of femininity that makes Amy Carmichaels and Gladys Aylwards-women who gave their all for the glory of Christ. A review on Amazon sums up some of the major points of this book:

• surrender to God’s love and wholeness
  
• embrace the real blueprint for beauty
  
• enjoy spectacular purpose
  
• captivate the masculine heart
  
• cultivate spiritual strength

I felt convicted and ready to change some things in my life after reading this book-I hope you will have the same experience as well. I have begun viewing things in a different light after reading Set-Apart Femininity. My contentment and love for Christ have grown stronger, and I have seen even more how He is a powerful God who deserves all our praise and adoration.

So whoever wins this giveaway, enjoy Set-Apart Femininity. It truly is a life-changing book. Although it is a hard road to take, and I struggle with this daily, I want to be among the set-apart who make a difference for Christ. Do you?

Have you entered our giveaway?

Go here to find out how!

Spring Getting To Know You Giveaway - Part Three

Hello! Here are Sara's answers to our survey:

1. Give us your name and age (age is optional) please don't put your last name!

Sara Elizabeth

2. Who is in your family?

My dad and mom, siblings Chris (26), Ryan (16), Melissa (14), Matt (12), and Rachel (10)

3. What is your favorite Bible verse?

Isaiah 40:31

4. Why is it your favorite?

Because of the beautiful promise it holds for those who wait on the Lord.

5. What is your favorite thing to do in your spare time?

blogging, playing the piano, scrapbooking

6. What is your biggest struggle as a woman?

Keeping myself separate from the world. It's hard to work and go to a secular school without coming to a certain point where you question everything you've ever believed in. While it's a challenge, it's also a good reminder to me to be in the world, but not of it.

7. What would you like us to talk about in the GI blog in the future?

Skip!!

8. Who is your favorite author?

C.S. Lewis, Leslie Ludy, Jane Austen (I know, I was only supposed to name one!)

9. What is your favorite Christian song or poem?

Be Thou My Vision and In Christ Alone

10. Do you have any advice for a fellow sister in Christ?

Don't ever let the world with it's trials and heartaches ever discourage you from serving and praising the Lord. He has a beautiful plan for each of us, and if we wait on Him, we will "mount up with wings like eagles, we will run and not be weary, we will walk and not faint."

Spring Getting to Know You Giveaway - Part Two

This is Part Two of our Spring Giveaway Introduction. If you haven't read Part One, please do so now!

Okay, now that you know what to do, here is the survey that you need to fill out! I also wanted to add that you are invited to participate no matter what age you are. You may know a younger sister in Christ that you want to give the book to if you win it.

I'll list the questions here, and then below I will put my answers ....

1. Give us your name and age (age is optional) please don't put your last name!
2. Who is in your family?
3. What is your favorite Bible verse?
4. Why is it your favorite?
5. What is your favorite thing to do in your spare time?
6. What is your biggest struggle as a woman?
7. What would you like us to talk about in the GI blog in the future?
8. Who is your favorite author?
9. What is your favorite Christian song or poem?
10. Do you have any advice for a fellow sister in Christ?

Now my answers:


1. Give us your name and age (age is optional) please don't put your last name!
My name is Beverly, and yes, most people call me Bev. I am 28 years old.

2. Who is in your family?
My husband, my daughter Selena (2), and my daughter Shana (5 months).

3. What is your favorite Bible verse?
Romans 8:38-39

4. Why is it your favorite?
I love this passage because I can cling to it at anytime in my life and know that no matter what is going on, that NOTHING can separate me from Christ's love. What a wonderful promise!!

5. What is your favorite thing to do in your spare time?
Probably it is a cross between reading, and blogging! I usually have a mug of some sort of hot drink while doing one of the two.

6. What is your biggest struggle as a woman?
Without question it is quieting my sinful worrying nature. I need to cast ALL of my cares on Him.

7. What would you like us to talk about in the GI blog in the future?
Ummm ... this question wasn't really meant for me - but for the rest of you!!

8. Who is your favorite author?
Can I give three? I enjoy Elizabeth George, Bodie and Brock Thoene, and Louisa May Alcott.

9. What is your favorite Christian song or poem?
My favorite songs are More Love to Thee and Take My Life.

10. Do you have any advice for a fellow sister in Christ?
This is a hard one. As a mom, a big sister, and former Sunday School teacher, my advice would be to be mindful of our example to those younger then us at all times. So many younger eyes are watching us, and we definitely always want to point younger ones to Christ.

The next post will contain Sara's answers - so be looking for that!!

Spring Getting to Know You Giveaway

Hi all!

Just here to announce that The Girl Inside is hosting a "Getting to Know You" Spring Giveaway!

We will be giving away one copy of Set Apart Femininity by Leslie Ludy to one of our readers!

Here's what YOU have to do:

I'll be posting a 10 question survey that will help us all get to know each other. Sara and I will answer the survey, but we won't be entering ourselves in the giveaway.

1. Answer the survey and post it on your blog.

2. Title your post: Spring Getting To Know You Giveaway

3. Link to your post using the Mr. Linky below.

4. If you sign up to follow our blog, you'll get your name entered twice. Just let us know in the comments!

5. If you are a non-blogger email me your survey, and I'll enter you.

6. This giveaway closes on Friday, March 27th!!!! The winner will be announced the following week. If you win, you'll be featured on our blog, and you will receive the book as well.

Watch for the 10 questions ... coming in my next post!!

Happy Valentine's Day!

I recently read an article by a young lady who has just started coauthoring an excellent blog titled "Imperishable Beauty". I was so encouraged by the post's message on Valentine's Day, and I thought you would be too, so please read it whenever you get a chance! Here's the link: http://imperishablebeautyblog.blogspot.com/2009/02/redeeming-valentines-day.html.

Happy Valentine's Day from Beverly and Sara!

He Won't Leave Us

I read this in my devotional book by Charles Spurgeon the other day and was so encouraged. I thought I would share it with you.

"Is it not a wonderful and arresting fact that while others leave us and forsake us that God never does? He says to each of His own redeemed people, "I will never leave you nor forsake you." How often do people forsake those whom they call their friends when those friends fall into poverty! The tragedies of some of these cruel forsakings! May you enver know them! Friends who once were cherished are now forgotten. In fact, the man almost pities himself to think that he should have been so unfortunate to have a friend who has fallen so low, and has no pity for his friends because he is so much occupied in pitying himself. In hundreds and thousands and tens of thousands of cases, as soon as the gold has gone, the pretended love has gone; and when the dwelling ahs been changed from the mansion to the cottage, the friendship that once promised to last forever has suddenly disappeared. But God will never leave us on account of poverty: However low we may fall, there it always stands: "I will never leave you nor forsake you." "

I was especially touched by this short devotional because I have experienced many instances where so-called friends of mine have gone out of my life. It is easy to grow bitter and angry, isn't it? And as girls, it is so easy to resort to gossiping and backbiting. I know I am guilty of this as well. Keeping our tongues from evil isn't the easiest task, but that's why prayer is so important. God can give us the patience and strength to bite our tongues and keep silent. What can be very painful and hurtful is when the gossiping is being done toward you. One day it can seem like you have a huge amount of friends, the next day they could all be gone.

Thankfully, the Lord has blessed me with a small group of sweet, Godly friends that I trust and love. But I have experienced the stinging ache of feeling slapped in the face by people I once called my friends. I think it is so comforting to know that even when the closest loved one might turn around and desert us, God is always there. His love is unconditional. He is not fickle and gossipy. He is ready to take us by the hand and walk with us through any difficulty. What an amazing God we serve!

You have my heart

And I am Yours forever

You are my strength

God of grace and power

And everything You hold in Your hand

Still You make time for me

I can't understand

Praise You God of Earth and sky

How beautiful is Your unfailing love

Unfailing love

And You never change God You remain

The Holy One

My unfailing love

Unfailing love

You are my rock

The one I hold on to

You are my song

And I sing for You

~Chris Tomlin

Quotable Quotes ...

"Blessed are the single-hearted, for they shall enjoy much peace. If you refuse to be hurried and pressed, if you stay your soul on God, nothing can keep you from that clearness of spirit which is life and peace. In that stillness you will know what His will is." - -- Amy Carmichael

How often I forget to REFUSE to be hurried and pressed.

How often I NEED to be still.

Happy Birthday

Happy Birthday Sara!

The Bravehearted Gospel

"Once upon a time, Christianity was the stuff of legends and Christ's loyalists were spiritual and moral revolutionaries, the kinds of men and women who turned the world upside down. But over time, something has happened to that once fervent and bravehearted band who dared to be called Christians. Many today have inherited a faith that has no real life or power. Instead of zeal there is apathy. Instead of courage there is timidity. And instead of confidence there is paralyzing doubt."

"Something has to change."

~Introduction to The Bravehearted Gospel.

I've just begun to read Eric Ludy's The Bravehearted Gospel, but even though I've only gotten through the first chapter, I've already been impacted by its message. It's not any easy message to hear...I certainly was cringing while reading some phrases from the book. Am I an Amy Carmichael, rescuing young girls from slavery and prostitution in India's temples? No. Am I a Gladys Alyward, leading a group of children out of dangerous China? I don't think so. These were women who risked their lives for Christ and for others. Yet I'm afraid to simply witness to an unsaved friend.

I know that God doesn't wish all of His children to go on dangerous missions to needy countries, but I think there has been a dramatic change in the Christians of today compared to the Christians of the past. It's so easy to fit in with the rest of the world and to have our religion off to the side. I want to change this in myself, but I know it will be uncomfortable to do so. In chapter 2 of The Bravehearted Gospel, Eric Ludy discusses how Job is a man we are all afraid of being. Job lost everything he cared about, and suffered tremendously until he thought he couldn't bear it any longer.

The question is- could any of us face the challenges that Job went through? Would our faith be strong enough? I want mine to be, but I know I have a long way to go. I wish I had a more passionate fervor for God in my everyday life. By God's grace, I know He can do this work in me, but I have to be willing to let Him transform me. I have to be willing to let Him change and mold me into a braver Christian who isn't afraid of what others think. I have to be willing to be more concerned about "the girl inside" rather than "the girl outside". It's a narrow path to walk, but greater is He who is in me than he who is in the world.

What are some things you struggle with? Do you desire for a closer relationship with Christ that transforms your spiritual life and makes you more fervent for Him?

"The bravest are those who have the clearest vision of what is before them, both the glory and danger alike, and yet nevertheless, go out to meet it."--Thucydides