All is Well {Update on Charlotte and Some Thoughts on Diet and Medicine}

In my last post I sought prayer for my sweet Charlotte's heart.  A day after I posted her temperature became slightly elevated (99.9) and she complained of a scratchy throat.  That evening our elder's wife called to inform me that one of her son's had tested positive for Strep Throat.  This at least gave me a good idea of what might have been causing the elevated temperature and heart rate.  The day after that Charlotte's heart was still not within normal resting heart rate ranges and I continued to put my Valor essential oil on her heart.  Within 30 minutes or so her heart rate would come down from 135bpm (resting) to about 120-125bpm.  She only had an elevated temp for a few hours and then nothing.  I began putting my Thieves oil on the bottoms of her feet and Frankincense on the lymph node area on her neck.  By the next day she said her throat was better and she still had no fever. 

Her heart rate has been in the 90s the past couple of days, which is great!  Malachi put the Valor on her heart last night, and I think we will just continue to apply it once or twice a day as a precaution.  My poor darlin' - when her heart rate would get in the upper 130s she was completely exhausted.  All she wanted to do was sleep and she complained about how tired she was.  It must have felt to her like she had just finished running around the house a million times - although she hadn't done much of anything.

A few other thing I did to help support Charlotte's immune system:

- Probiotic (Biofidophilus) 2 x per day
- Fermented Cod Liver Oil/Butter Oil 2 x per day

I learned that Strep Throat is a bacterial infection that stems from an unhealthy gut.  Everyone has Strep (and Yeast) in their bodies, and when our guts become off balanced due to poor diet, stress, etc., then we become susceptible to illnesses such as Strep Throat or Systemic Candida (among other things).  Strep Throat can be treated naturally without antibiotics, and in fact doing so is better in the long run if caught early enough.  The thing that concerns me about Strep Throat is Rheumatic Fever.  Rheumatic Fever is caused from Strep Throat and has the potential of damaging the heart muscle and valves.  With Charlotte's pre-existing heart condition, Rheumatic Fever can be quite dangerous for her. 

I did a bit of research (I'm sure not surprising to some of you) and found that Strep Throat can be treated with Bifidophilus (Extra Strength Probiotic), garlic (natural antibiotic), and Apple Cider Vinegar (Organic Unfiltered - I recommend Bragg's).  All of these treatments help to restore and balance the gut without the harmful flora killing side effects of antibiotics. 

I remember getting Strep Throat constantly as a child.  The first time I recall having Strep Throat I was about 5 or 6 years old.  My dad was stationed at Fort Bragg, and from what I remember (and what my parents tell me) I was super sick.  My mom told me that I went through several rounds of antibiotics.  This caused me to wonder - were the antibiotics making the infection worse because it was ruining my gut therefore keeping my immune system from doing its job?  I'm not sure, nor do I think I'll ever know a definite answer.  I do know that my Charlotte has never taken an antibiotic and if she was battling a Strep infection (even in the slightest of forms), it appears that using a more naturally holistic approach is what helped her body fight it off.  I do not think it coincidence that her heart started acting up on the same day my elder's wife called to tell me of her son's diagnosis - then Charlotte has a slightly elevated temp the following day. 

Our elder's son is allergic to corn - and all antibiotics on the market are corn based - so guess who cannot have an antibiotic?  Fortunately, there is a naturopath in the area that gave some great recommendations, and through those recommendations I was able to make better decisions for my Charlotte in the event she indeed had Strep Throat.  It was reassuring to know that avoiding a trip to the doctor, which would have inevitably ended with a prescription for an antibiotic regardless, was in our best interest.

Over the past several months I'm learning a lot about trusting the Lord during the times when my children are not feeling well.  It is still hard at times to disregard what the industry has taught me and lean not on my own understanding and seek the Lord for how to care for my family.  It seems quite the easiest of tasks to make sure the children are fed properly and loved - but when they fall ill - that is a whole different ball game.  Why is that?  I think, even as Christians our trust and assurance in the Lord is weak when we feel the most helpless.  I feel most helpless when my little ones are sick.  I want instant healing so that I can avoid watching them suffer - even if their suffering is a stuffy nose.  I still panic and want to reach for the doctor so that he/she will reach for their prescription pad and give us a miracle medicine that will fix the suffering; when all the while I'm completely disregarding that God designed the human body to function in a certain way that helps to maintain health.  Now, I understand that we live in a fallen world and our flesh has been corrupted by sin and death - so sickness cannot be avoided altogether.  However, I do believe that when we do become sick it is the body's way of saying that our immune system is weak and needs to be fed properly so that it can do the job the Lord designed it to do. 

Everyone knows - if they've been following my blog long enough that we've changed the way we eat and more importantly what we think about diet and nutrition in general.  The more I study and seek the Lord, the more I'm learning that He has a definite position on what we put into our bodies.  While I will not call "unclean" what the Lord has called "clean" - I do believe that just as our spiritual diet affects our spiritual health so too does our physical diet affect our physical health.  If we are consuming a diet filled with things that technically are not "food" and have not the ability to nourish our bodies - then what is the point?  How can we possibly expect our bodies to function properly? 

I've witnessed just how much diet affects our overall health.  I remember my first child being sick all the time when she was a baby and a toddler.  It seemed every time we turned around she was sick and on an antibiotic or something to help with her constant constipation or diarrhea. Sadly, I did not have a strong opinion on breastfeeding and did not have the support or knowledge about the superiority of breast milk versus formula when Sofia was little.  Sofia was formula fed (soy formula - the WORST) until she was a year old.  Then we put her on store brand cow's milk.  I didn't know about hormones and antibiotics being present in the milk either.  When she started solids she did the routine store bought jarred foods and then just started eating what we ate - which wasn't good either. 

By the time my second child came along we still hadn't made changes to our diet.  I gained nearly 70lbs during my pregnancy from eating junk. Then Charlotte was born with a heart condition and has been put through the ringer searching for reasons for why she is so little.  Fortunately, by the time I had her I had become more aware of the benefits of breastfeeding and when her cardiologist urged me to continue nursing at all costs for the sake of her heart health, well, I was one determined momma!

As time progressed and we mourned the loss of two more babies through miscarriage - and our Sofia developed a serious food allergy to red dye - the Lord just convicted us heavily on what we were consuming through our diet.  Looking back I can see where God was working in specific areas of my life through different events and people to bring about His perfect plan for our family.  We have a desire to be obedient in all things, not just in theology or in the discipleship of our children.  Food is such an important part of our lives - our bodies absolutely need it to survive.  Now, the big debate on the great matter is in regards to what constitutes as "food" these days. 

The food industry has created a product that the consumer has demanded.  Bigger, Cheaper, Easier.  In our hastiness for bigger and easier we've cheapened food.  I don't know about you, but the word "cheap" doesn't ignite images or ideas of a superior product.  To cheapen something is to quite frankly lessen its value or worth, thus making it worthless or valueless.
Synonyms for the word “cheap”:
Valuless, worthless, low quality, bad, common, crappy (slang), bum, inferior, low-grade, rotten, rubbish, uncharitable, despicable, disgusting, cowardly, unethical
I don’t know about you – but these are not attributes I’d like my food (or anything in my life for that matter) to represent.  I’m all about taking advantage of a good sale – like when the grass-fed ground beef goes on sale at my local Whole Foods, and even then I know I’m going to pay at least $3.99 per pound.  And, if I ever see ground beef that is priced at anything lower (and it isn’t from the local farmer that I’m picking it up from – even then the lowest I can get it for is like $3.50 per pound) then I can be assured it is NOT what I want to consume because it is “cheap” meat. 

Cheapened food wreaks havoc on our bodies and forces us to pay more in healthcare costs.  Wonder why medical insurance is so stinking expensive?  We’ve got a population of people who are almost always ill – or suffering some other physical ailment.  Allergies, obesity, and even cancer can be traced back to something as simple as diet.  An apple isn’t just an apple anymore and sadly we’ve got a generation of people and a food industry that simply want to cast a blind eye to it all because we’ve got “cheaper” food!  Yes, but with cheaper food comes consequences that we all pay for with a high price – our health and the health of future generations. 


Ok, so how did a blog update on Charlotte’s heart condition turn into a rant on food and medicine?  Simple.  Keeping her immune system healthy by feeding her nourishing sustenance that hasn’t been adulterated or cheapened is what the Lord used to ward off an impending Strep Throat infection and possible SVT episode that could have potentially landed her in the Emergency Room.

Our change in philosophy over food and medicine didn’t come about overnight, and the changes that we’ve implemented didn’t come to fruition immediately.  The Lord slowly worked on our hearts using several different events – the first event being Sofia’s food allergy to red dye.  The Lord so beautifully orchestrated that one event and caused a cascade of understanding for other events.  He brought different people into our lives – each one at the perfect time to share with us what the Lord had taught them. 

It hasn’t always been easy, but then again nothing in life is ever easy.  The Lord has blessed us in the midst of many different trials – miscarriages, my husband was laid off a few years ago, barely keeping our heads above water financially, different medical issues that have arisen and that we continue to face.  God has provided through different family and friends and we feel extremely humbled and blessed to know that so many people truly love our family.  We want to be good stewards of that which the Lord provides and part of that is caring for the bodies the Lord has given us.  I’m thankful for the Lord’s chastisement in the area of diet and medicine.  I’ve seen how our overall health is better and we feel more confident in trusting the Lord for whatever He brings our way – even in sickness. 

I know so many people will be sitting behind their computer screen wondering how on earth they can make these types of changes on a limited budget.  We have always had a limited budget, and even during those times where we didn’t manage it well, the Lord always provided for our dietary needs.  At present, our weekly grocery budget is $150.  This fluctuates depending on the menu that I work up for each week.  Now that we’re in the hot months of the summer, I like to do more meatless meals which helps to lower our weekly grocery spending.  We don’t use paper products, other than toilet paper, and this has helped the budget.  I use cloth diapers and cloth wipes on Eleanor which helps too.  While I do make bread from scratch, we’ve cut back on our bread type foods in general.  Eating fresh fruits and vegetables (in season) is much of our diet these days. We’ve found local sources for some of our produce and eggs.  Eventually we’ll grow our own seasonal produce and we’ll have our own chickens.  We’ve even thought about a goat for raw milk – but that will still take some time.  Beans and rice, hummus and veggies, grilled chicken salads or salad with beans are staples in our house during the hot summer months.  These meals don’t have to be super fancy and are incredibly budget friendly.

I know, some may be thinking, “But my kids won’t eat that stuff”.  Well, neither did ours at first.  But what I’ve learned these past several years is that children will grow accustomed to what you allow them to be accustomed to.  My children love vegetables, and my Charlotte would much rather eat carrots than cookies!  I simply don’t keep junk in the house, therefore my children have no choice but to eat what I serve them.  I highly encourage beginning healthy eating habits from infancy.  This means that YOU must make healthy eating habits and choices.  We are our child’s first exposure to a plethora of things in life, and FOOD is a vital part of life, therefore we should make healthy nutrition a priority.  Get informed about how your food is made.  Find out where your produce and meats come from.  Are they ethically grown?  Start a garden. Get a few chickens.  Or if you can’t do that, find a local source for your produce and meats.  A great way to do this is to check out your local farmer’s market.  Get to know the vendors and you will most likely be able to work out a great deal with them. 

We have so many options these days, and of course we generally like to take the path of least resistance.  Below are several resources I highly recommend.  They range from documentaries to websites. 

Above all, pray!  Pray and seek the Lord for wisdom in this area of your life.  If you make changes to your diet without the conviction of the Holy Spirit, but because you think you have to be like me – then you will fail from the start and become bitter and frustrated.  The reason we eat, believe, and live the way we do is because the Lord changed our hearts.  He set before us challenges and illnesses to show us something very important, that no matter what He is Sovereign. And if we look to Him for wisdom and understanding He is faithful to show us the right way.

Resources:
Food, Inc.
Eat Wild
Non-GMO Shopping Guide (pdf)
Organic Food on a Budget (Keeper of the Home)
The Healthy Home Economist (I don’t agree with everything posted, but this lady has some great insight into how our diet effects our overall health)
Doctor Yourself
EcoCentric
Health for Godly Generations (LOVE this book!)
Culinary Reformation
The Beautiful Truth (Watch for Free)
Real Milk
Dr. Mercola
Food Documentaries Everybody Should Watch
Back to Eden Film

I hope that you find these resources informative and helpful.  If you’d like more information on Young Living Therapeutic Grade Essential Oils, then please head over to my website Southern SCENTSabilities.


Soli Deo Gloria!

Serving God and My Family,
Crystal <><

Rescuing Femininity: Honoring God's Design {Repost}

 The subject of feminine apparel is always a "hot" topic that has the potential of causing such division among Christians.  I wrote this article nearly 3 years ago, and even today I have such a strong conviction in regards to how I dress.  After wearing skirts exclusively for 3 years now, I must say I am very glad the Lord chastened my heart in this area.  I have learned so much and been able to teach my girls such sweet lessons of femininity and propriety - even in their young ages.  I pray the Lord is glorified as it is He who has changed my heart.

 

Rescuing Femininity: Honoring God's Design

There is much that has been weighing heavily on my heart recently. The most current issue is that of Biblical Womanhood in regards to Femininity and the use of discretion in our dress (attire) and how we behave as Godly women. I must at this point state that since this subject revolves around the challenge to carefully examine our liberties in Christ, some may view my position as “legalistic”. However, since the issues that I am about to discuss are not based on earning, maintaining, or losing one’s salvation it should not be misconstrued as being legalistic. I also am not suggesting you can improve upon or add any measure of holiness to yourself by anything you do or any effort you put forth. We as believers in Christ have been given His perfect Holiness and there’s nothing we can do to improve upon it. However, we are expected to live out a Holy life (1Peter 1:13-16). This means we are to examine ourselves and ask the Lord “How can I honor You the most in fill in the blank ? ”; not “Is what I’m already comfortable doing covered under Christian liberty?”. I seek only to cause Christian women to re-evaluate what the portrait of a Godly woman looks like, acts like and thinks like. Sadly, I believe that even Christian women have in one way or another been influenced by feminism even though they may not realize it. I want to re-introduce a word that has been all but forgotten due to feminism: “propriety”.

Recently I have been convicted about my attire for each day. It is easier and often times more comfortable to just stay in my pajamas, which usually consist of a nursing shirt and some cotton pants, however, I have been wondering how this looks to my husband, my children and anyone who might happen to drop by in the middle of the day. Does it appear that I am lazy? Does it appear that I do not care about how I am outwardly presenting myself to an ever looking world? 

I know how caring for small children, cleaning a home, preparing meals, and being my husband’s helpmeet can cause tiredness and not much of a desire to make my dress a priority. It actually hasn’t been much of a priority up until recently (hence the reason I am blogging). Does it matter what I wear? Or the more pressing question, does God’s Word have a position on this issue? I believe that like with everything else in the Christian life, God usually does not take a neutral position, but instead has a very firm position on all matters relating to the Christian life. 

Let’s take a look at one verse in particular that is inevitably used in regards to a woman’s apparel and behavior:

1 Timothy 2:9-10 sheds some light on “how” a woman should dress, but that it is mostly her behavior that is accounted to her as godliness. However, scripture would not have mentioned dressing in “respectable apparel, dressing modestly, with propriety and decency” (ESV and NIV translations use these words) if they were not to be included in what is to be regarded as “appropriate for women who confess godliness” (v.10, NIV). 

My position on this subject has changed several times since becoming a Christian, wife, and mother. In our culture there is such a clash in gender roles that it is no surprise that even “feminine apparel” cannot be defined. There used to be a time when pants were strictly for men and dresses/long skirts were strictly for women, but now in the age of “metrosexuals”, “transgendered” individuals, and other individuals who appear to have some sort of identity crisis, the lines of what is masculine and feminine are muddled. We know without a doubt what God thinks of men who are effeminate and women who seek to be masculine; 

“Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived; neither the immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate , nor homosexual offenders , nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor robbers will inherit the kingdom of God.” (1 Corinthians 6:9-10) 

The word “effeminate” in this verse is translated from the Greek word “malakos”, meaning “soft, that is, fine (clothing); figuratively a catamite (a boy who has a sexual relationship with a man). When Paul wrote this it was during a time when masculinity and femininity were obvious and understood by all. In today’s time these two attributes of the male and female gender seem to be interchangeable. This is certainly NOT what God had in mind when He created man and woman. 

When I think of a Godly man, who exudes masculine qualities, I picture men like Abraham, Moses, David, Solomon, Samuel, Sampson, Paul, Peter and of course my Jesus. The traditional roles of a man; fighting in battle, head of the household, provider of his own family, husband and father; are all things that only men were designed to do. Why would any man want to disregard the way that God Almighty fashioned them to be? I believe it is because of feminism. 

Feminism has not only emasculated men, but it has allowed for the complete redefining of gender roles. It has allowed women to burn their bras, abandon their husbands and children in the pursuit of “achievement” and admiration of the world, and yes, it has even afforded them the “unquestioned right” to don a pair of pants. There of course is nothing inherently wrong or sinful about wearing pants, but when looking back on history and what was once considered to be “feminine”, pants simply were not that. 

It seems that history always repeats itself (or Satan simply hasn’t had to work harder in duping us gullible sinful folks) in the area of what is feminine and what is masculine. The Church of Corinth had the same issues that we have today, the only difference is that there aren’t very many Christians who are willing to stand up and demand a re-evaluation of what is Biblically masculine and what is Biblically feminine for fear of breaking the code of “political correctness” and trampling on someone’s “Christian liberty”. 

Paul addressed this very issue when writing to the Church at Corinth. He was speaking to the Christian women who wanted to cut their hair (1 Cor 11:3-16), which happen to be what the pagan “feminists” of their day were doing. He was not saying that a woman who had short hair was in sin rather that Christian women need to appear in a manner which deliberately advertises that they acknowledge and submit to Divine authority (which includes the Biblical hierarchy of gender roles) so that they do not give the appearance of the opposite (1 Cor 11:8-10). That is what this entire post is about, using discretion in not only what we say and how we conduct ourselves, but by the way we dress, because we do not want to be labeled something we are not. The idea of women wearing pants was not an issue for debate until the feminist movement began. It was considered feminine, proper, modest and discreet for a woman to wear dresses or skirts and it was considered indecent, masculine, and rebellious for a woman to wear pants not too long ago. 

Have you ever heard of or seen an Antebellum home? These homes are called “Antebellum” because they were built pre-Civil War. What is even more interesting is the reasoning behind having a two sided staircase leading to the front door. Do you know why these houses were built this way? During this time women of course only wore dresses or skirts that did not show their ankles. Before 4pm a man was not to look upon a woman’s ankles; it was considered indecent and immodest, borderline scandalous. The two sided staircase was built so that before 4pm if a gentleman and a lady were heading to the front door of a house, the gentleman would walk up the left side and the lady to the right, so that she could slightly lift her dress without the gentleman seeing her ankles. After 4pm however, it was not considered inappropriate for a man to be able to see a lady’s ankles. My, how times have changed! 

In today’s world/culture it is perfectly accepted for a woman to literally wear whatever she wants or feels comfortable in. The terms “modesty”, “feminine”, “discretion”, “proper”, “discreet”, and “chaste” are simply no longer in our vocabulary. If these words are used most people believe their meanings are relative to individual preference. There seems to be no absolute standard that we can appeal to for the definition of these attributes; which I believe only perpetuates the problem. Christian women need to seriously re-evaluate this issue and come to a hard concrete position. We need to become counter cultural and refuse to just “go with the flow”. I think for many years now women within the Church have simply gone along with the change in culture, which would explain why feminism is so prevalent in our Christian churches. Patriarchy has been mocked and replaced with feminism, Biblical womanhood has been lost to the feminist movement, motherhood is under attack in our generation because we have allowed feminism to infiltrate, not just the church but our own individual lives that we can’t even discern what is feministic and what is Biblical. I am fairly sure that some women reading this blog may have already turned their nose up to what I am saying as though they have just smelled a stinky soiled diaper. Why? I believe it is because we are blind to the harsh truth that we have all in one way or another been influenced by feminism and for anyone to “rain on our parade” causes us to well up with sinful pride. No one enjoys having their beliefs examined, but I truly believe that as Christian women who have a desire and yearning to live Godly lives that cause Christ to be glorified need to re-think their positions on this subject.

What image are we trying to portray to an unbelieving world? Does the God’s word calls us to be a “peculiar people” (1 Peter 2:9)? Aren’t we supposed to act and look different than the rest of the world? I am not suggesting that we all start a commune and don uniforms, what I am saying is that dresses and skirts are MORE feminine than jeans, shorts, short skirts and pants. Yes, our heart is what God sees, but humans looks at us with their eyes and many of them look at us through unsaved, unregenerate, sinful, lustful eyes. The curves of a woman’s body should be reserved for her husband only. We don’t even want to give the appearance of evil (1 Thessalonians 5:22). This is why I have come to the conclusion that going back to the basics and reclaiming what is feminine, modest, and proper, is for Christian women to wear skirts and dresses. This is not an issue of salvation; this is an issue of discretion, discernment, and propriety. My desire is to bring honor and glory to God, and I believe one way to do this outwardly is to really make sure that my clothes are feminine and modest.

I have actually found that wearing skirts and dresses have made me feel more feminine. It requires that I sit in a decent manner, and I do carry myself very differently when I am wearing a skirt or a dress. I have also come to the conclusion that long skirts are truly more modest than short skirts. I don’t have to worry so much about anyone being able to see up my skirt when I do sit down. No one can tell what kind of undergarments I am wearing; I bring this up because often times when a woman is wearing pants (or shorts) and she bends down the top of her underwear poke out. It is very easy to tell if she has on full coverage underwear or thongs. I am sure we can all agree this is not modesty. I have become more aware of the shirts that I wear and have begun to choose ones that if I were to bend over (which many moms do with small children) no one can see inside my shirt. Everything about the way I think of how a Christian woman should dress has changed. I can easily go back through pictures from a little as two years ago and see a huge difference in my appearance. I will be the first one to say I did not make an effort to dress femininely or modestly.

I must caution that the issue of how we dress can become an idol and cause us to miss the boat completely. I am not suggesting that Christian women become so caught up in how they dress that they are constantly worrying if they are less godly of a woman should they choose to wear pants. That is not my intention with this post. I simply believe that ALL CHRISTIAN WOMEN need to seriously re-evaluate why they wear what they wear and do they give thought as to if it honors God or not. I can most assuredly say that God does care what we wear and how we are presenting ourselves to the rest of the world. We are His Bride and should not only conduct ourselves as such in speech, action and thought, but also by how we dress.

Nancy Leigh Demoss has a great series about this subject that you can listen to at Revive Our Hearts. The series is under the section “Modesty: Does God Really Care What I Wear?” Here are a few more articles that are related to this topic if you are interested in really re-evaluating your personal position:

How Do We Want Posterity To Remember Us? (From LAF)

What Do We Teach Our Little Girls? (The Sydney Morning Herald)

A letter from Christian Guys (Fearlessly Feminine Blog)

Mrs. McDonald over at “Your Sacred Calling” has a few posts on the subject of Modesty. You can check them out here.

I hope that this post has not just ruffled feathers, but has actually caused Christian women to stop, think and re-visit what it really means to be Biblically Feminine. I understand that we have Christian Liberty, but should we so quickly pull that card to justify what we are wearing without first seeing if God has a position on it. The condition of the heart is important and the motives for doing anything are always questionable. Everything that we do should be done as unto the Lord, and not for our own personal gain. This reminds me of being called to die to ourselves daily. This life simply isn’t about us. This is why I think the issue of how Christian women present themselves to the world is so important. All the world is looking at Christians and scrutinizing their every word and deed. We are to be set apart and distinct; we should stand out as a peculiar people from an unbelieving world. We are to be like a “city on a hill”, unable of being hidden like the light of a candle (Matthew 5:14-16). 

As I have gone about writing this post, I noticed as I was out and about in our community that I was more aware not only of how others looked at me depending on what I was wearing, but how I looked at other women based on how they were dressed. We make determinations about something or a person based on how they are dressed whether we want to admit it or not. When we see a man in a police uniform, we make the automatic judgment that he is a police officer sworn to uphold and defend the law. When we see a young woman in a white dress walking down the isle of a church, we automatically make the judgment that she is a bride getting married. There are particular colors and clothing that gang members wear to set themselves apart from the rest of the world in an effort to be intimidating. Military servicemen have uniforms that are particular to the branch of service they are in. Everyone knows what proper and acceptable dress is for all occasions, why can’t women understand that the way they dress DOES send a message to everyone who sees them. 

I know for many this is not a “pleasant” topic, and some may even think that their Christian liberty is under attack. For others this post has given them something to think about and they genuinely want to seek God’s position on it. (I believe He DOES indeed have a position on it) I also understand that this will not be something that Christian women will change overnight. I strongly encourage all Christian women to go before the Lord in prayer, casting the idea of Christian liberty aside and really seek out what the “right” answer is in regards to feminine dress. I do not believe the answer is relative to one’s own personal taste because of the times we live in. Lines certainly need to be drawn and I truly believe that in our day and age we need to be more “hardcore” (as my husband calls it) about our walk with Christ. The way we present ourselves to the world in word, deed and appearance are all important, especially to the next generation that we are raising. Our daughters need to see Biblical femininity and how to apply it to their daily lives. We can “turn the tide” on feminism and teach our daughters to embrace how God intended us to live. Our daughters can love all things feminine and can learn to make the appropriate distinctions between what is truly feminine and what is masculine based on scripture, not based on secular feminism. 

I understand I may have lost the support of more than half my audience here…probably within the first paragraph, and then there are others who will leave comments to the effect of “but I like my jeans”; to both I say, “ok”, but can you see how the wearing of pants by women did not come about until the dawn of feminism? Also, if you find yourself appealing to sarcastic hyperbole’s such as “Well why don’t we all just go burn our wardrobe, synch up the corset, slip into an 80 lb. dress, and go churn some milk into butter while we’re at it?” then you’ve deliberately missed the point and are mocking it only because you know it applies to you. Don’t be deceived, women have been a favorite target of the enemy’s since Eve, and he won’t stop until he completely destroys the feminine beauty God designed and placed in each one of us women. So, come on girls, let’s refuse to be victimized by the enemy any longer and take back femininity from feminism. 

Serving God and My Family,

Crystal <><

Homemaking 101: Vision Encouragement and Instruction for Young, Christian Wives DVD {Repost}

***I shared this review with my sweet readers last month and I wanted to share the review again.  A new year has begun and many of us are wanting to find ways to start fresh, but often times in order to do this we need some help or guidance.  I think Mrs. Ross offers some of the best biblical wisdom on the subject of Homemaking and Biblical Womanhood.  Mrs. Ross has been very generous and offered my readers a 25% discount on her new Homemaking 101 DVD.  Just use coupon code 25off at check out.  After reading my review, if you'd like to purchase your very own copy simply click on the icon at the end of this post.

This would make a great gift for a new bride, or you could have a Ladies Tea with some women from your church and view this together!  Either way I know that you will be blessed as much as I have been through the wisdom that Mrs. Ross and Mrs. Crowl share in this lovely DVD teaching on Homemaking.***

Family Vision Films

Mrs. Jennifer Ross has created an invaluable resource for Christian women in her encouraging teaching series Homemaking 101: Vision Encouragement and Instruction for Young, Christian Wives DVD.  I first learned of this teaching series through one of my favorite blogs, “A Wise Woman”.  Just within the past week that I’ve had the DVD in my possession I (and my girls) have viewed it at least 4 or 5 times.  I’ve already begun to implement some of the “Homemaking” that Mrs. Ross suggests throughout Homemaking 101 and the stress level in my home has drastically decreased.  Her practical and of course Biblical approach to Homemaking truly makes this teaching series unique and timeless.

Mrs. Ross is a lovely hostess as she graciously opens her home and life to Christian women in the hopes that Christ may be glorified as she challenges and encourages us to joyfully serve our husbands and children.  In the very beginning of the DVD, after Mrs. Ross so lovingly opens her front door to welcome us into her home, she makes this poignant statement that still resonates with me – 

“We were created to joyfully serve our husbands”

I couldn’t have said it better!  It truly is a sad thing when Christian wives forget this basic Biblical truth – “woman was created for the man” (1 Corinthians 11:9).  We all know (and possibly even wince at reading it) that God created Eve to be Adam’s “helpmeet” (Genesis 2:18).  Post Modern Feminism has sold a very sour product that sadly, even within Christendom, has been bought at a great price – the family.  In a world where the modern culture of family has been perverted and broken, Mrs. Ross seems to revive the Biblical role of women within the words “We were created to joyfully serve our husbands”.  It is like a fresh breath of air!

All throughout Homemaking 101, Mrs. Ross shares some excellent and practical tips for managing the home well and joyfully and one is the wearing of an apron each day.  I love the idea of wearing an apron each day to symbolize the “homemaker’s uniform”. I have already begun to make this part of my morning routine – it really does jump start my day with the understanding that I do have work to do.

Finding time to spend time with the Lord and study His word can be difficult when you have small children; however, Mrs. Ross makes a timely observation:

“Solitude and quiet are not a prerequisite for spending time with the Lord, especially if you’re a mother of small children.”

So often I think Christian mothers become discouraged with this particular area of the Christian life.  I tend to wait until my children are in bed for the evening to read my Bible – and even then I need to remember it is also the time that I have uninterrupted time with my husband.  Understanding that we are not entitled to uninterrupted scheduled time to sit and spend time with the Lord is of great encouragement.  You will find that this concept is touched on by an older Titus 2 woman in the DVD, where she points out that Jesus was constantly interrupted and He never grumbled or even expected solitude – He just served joyfully and was in constant communion with the Father.  I think it a far better thing to have our children witness their mothers praying or reading scripture even in spite of a busy or hectic day.  I have found it so beneficial in my own home, over the past several days, to sit and read my Bible while the girls are playing quietly – they inevitably ask me “Momma, what are you reading?” and the Lord gives me such a sweet opportunity to minister to my children this way.

There is no more important ministry that a Christian wife and mother has than to those within her home.  This was one of the resounding messages throughout the DVD –

“Motherhood…homemaking…IS a ministry. Your greatest mission is your home. There are lives to be saved in your own home.”

~Mrs. Janet Crowl

This is something that is of the utmost importance for Christian homemakers to understand – Our ministry is at home - to our husband and children.  If we find ourselves searching for or finding more fulfillment in some other ministry outside of our own homes, then we must reevaluate, repent, and turn our hearts back to our homes.  Our number one priority and ministry is in our homes.  We should be very careful and wise about the activities for which we commit ourselves to that take place outside of our homes.

All throughout Homemaking 101 are very practical tips for managing your time and your home well; for the glory of the Lord.  Mrs. Ross generously shares a few recipes and mealtime tips; time management tips, organization tips, and tips for incorporating your little ones into the daily chores and activities that need to be accomplished within the home.  She is the mother to 11 children, and to see such grace and joy as she cares for her home, her husband and children is truly inspiring and humbling.

I am thankful that the Lord has inspired Mrs. Ross to create such a lovely teaching series that is sure to inspire you as you seek to obey and honor the Lord.  Homemaking 101 is a resource that is sure to only benefit and bless you and your family.  This DVD would make a perfect gift idea for a “bride to be”, or a young mother who may be in need of some encouragement and guidance.  It is also an excellent resource for those who are like me, and never really got any training in the art of “Homemaking”.  No matter the season you find yourself in now, Homemaking 101 is bound to bless and encourage you in some way!

Also, be sure to head over and check out Mrs. Ross’ website Renewing Housewives, and all of the other wholesome Christian resources at Family Vision Films.

Serving God and My Family,

Crystal <><

Home-Based Business - A Biblical Perspective

The New Year has begun!  How have the first days of your New Year been?  I enjoy this time of new beginnings.  Everyone recognizes the New Year as a chance to start over fresh, to take steps to correct bad habits or beliefs.  An opportunity to take a chance and start something new – be adventurous, if you will.  

Since launching my very small cottage business a few years ago, I’ve tasted of the thrill that comes with making something with my own hands and being compensated for it.  I’ve also very much enjoyed providing a service for people who appreciate handmade custom items.  On top of that, crocheting is a hobby – so it is a double blessing for me.  Recently, however, I have stepped into a whole new business endeavor – becoming an Independent Distributor for YoungLiving Essential Oils!

I have enjoyed using essential oils for several years, and now armed with more information about essential oils, I am proud to recommend Young Living Therapeutic Grade Essential Oils.  I’ve used these oils on myself, my husband and my children and seen great results.  

When I first began researching essential oils I was completely unaware of how the oils are made and how that plays a vital role in the purity of each one.  I just assumed ‘an essential oil is an essential oil’ – no way to really differentiate between different ones.  I was wrong!  When I received my first bottle of Young Living Therapeutic Grade Lavender Essential Oil and opened the bottle to take a whiff, I immediately recognized the difference.  

I’ve suffered from chronic migraines since I was about 18 years old, and sometimes they are triggered by smells like, perfumes, different foods cooking, cleaning products, etc.  I try to be very careful about walking through department stores in the mall that have perfume and cologne counters because I can get a migraine in a matter of minutes from all the different smells.  So, when it comes to smelling different scents and fragrances I do so with the utmost caution because my sniffer is ultra sensitive! 

A couple of years ago a friend recommended I try essential oils to help with my migraines.  I hate taking medication for every single ailment or illness and I’ve learned over time that pharmaceuticals are toxic to our bodies and often times cause pesky side effects that then require other pharmaceuticals.  The two that I remember that were known to help with migraines were Lavender and Peppermint so I picked some up at our local health food store and used them off and on – sometimes they’d work and other times I’d be in agony for hours with a migraine that just wouldn’t subside.  Since having my Young Living Therapeutic Oils, every single headache I’ve had or muscle ache the oils have just about worked instantly to soothe the pain and discomfort.  

My husband was a bit skeptical at first, until the other day he came home with a sore and stiff neck from sitting at a desk all day turning his head to look at two different computer monitors.  I promptly grabbed my Young Living Pan Away Essential Oil Blend and put it on the parts of his neck that he said were hurting.  Within a few  minutes the pain, discomfort and stiffness were completely gone!  From that moment on he’s been completely sold on the Young Living oils – and he is not an easy sell!  He is now just as enthusiastic about Young Living products as I am.  I’m excited about this new business venture that we’ve embarked on because it has to do with a product I absolutely love and use in my own home every single day.  I also love the product because it helps me to remain consistent with my beliefs and convictions on living a lifestyle that is healthy and natural – and not depending on or relegating the health of myself or my family on a pharmaceutical industry that does not have our best interests in mind.

I share all of the above because starting a home-based business is not only a means for bringing in some extra income, but it is Biblical.  A homemaker can be a successful business homemaker!  In the Fall 2011 edition of Homeschooling Today!, Stephen Beck shares some great wisdom when it comes to Christian families starting a small business.  He gives some practical advice and a list of “pros and cons” that must be understood before taking the plunge into the home-based or small business world.    

He writes:

“The Psalm 112 man: Scripture says that wealth and riches are in his home. He deals graciously and lends. He gives to the poor. The people honor his name. The wicked see this and grieve.

The Proverbs 31 woman: Her first priority is her family, but she manages her household so well that the walls of her house cannot contain her industry…With this thriving family business, she clothes her family in scarlet (nice clothes) and reaches out to the poor, and all who know her praise her.”

Mr. Beck goes on to say something that I found very encouraging as the owner of a small business;

“In my opinion, to foil the plans of the wicked is one reason God gives profitable business to His children. People with means have to be reckoned with and are not easily swayed. And if godly people have means through a small family business, perhaps this is one more tool God will use to establish His kingdom.”

WOW!  I never thought of it that way until I read this article.  I enjoy running my own business, almost as much as I enjoy running and managing my home.  In fact, the two seem to blend together and will probably become more blended as my children grow and become more a part of our family economy. I teach them what I am learning, as does my husband when it comes to technical computer skills, and it is our way of passing down an inheritance to them in a way that otherwise cannot be accomplished. 

The cons to starting a small family business are:

• Every small business takes a financial risk.  Understand that when you begin a small family business not only do you invest financial capital you invest your time and your family’s time.  Understand and be prepared to invest each thing wisely, while also realizing what you don’t invest you cannot get a return on.
• It can become an all-consuming venture if not managed correctly.  This can be an easy way for a family business to fail before it ever gets off the ground.  Dad and Mom need to remember what their first priorities are and manage their time wisely so that the needs of the family do not go unmet through the course of setting up or running a family business.  Family businesses do not tend to go very well if the family is falling apart.
• Be prepared for an abundance of advice.  Everyone will have an opinion on how you should run or establish your business.  Be wise and careful who you take business advice from, as with everything else in life. This is something that I’ve personally dealt with.  Most people have great intentions however; even those who do not have a small business of any kind are willing to offer advice on how to run something they know nothing about. 

The pros to starting a small family business are:

• You gain transferable business skills.  You will have a great opportunity to pass on life skills to your children.  What a sweet way to spend time with your children and invest in their futures!
• You have the wonderful opportunity to pursue your passion.  It enables you and your children to work in an area that you love. 
• You will be able to avoid compromising situations. If you are your own boss then you make the rules.  If the Lord blesses your business in a manner that allows it to be the sole source of income and provision for your family, then you have the freedom to spend more time with your family and even spend time helping within your community or possibly through a mission trip.
• You get to earn extra income.  Even if your small business does not become your primary source of income, it certainly can generate extra income for homeschool supplies, field trips, vacations, mission trips, mortgage payments, medical expenses, or even to pay for higher educational opportunities. It can also be a great way to put away funds for times when you learn of a need of another Christian family or someone in your community.  What a great way to minister to others if you are able to help provide for them by having extra stored away for groceries or to pay a friend’s electric bill, etc. 

Stephen Beck ends by reminding the reader that “Rome was not built in a day and neither will your family business”.  Is there something that you enjoy doing or that would provide a needed service to someone?  I enjoy crocheting and sewing clothes for my family.  Once I became confident in my abilities and learned how to make time for it, selling what I make has been rewarding.  Are you a computer tech or do you know how to design websites?  This can be very beneficial for those who need a website or do not know how to design a blog – you can offer your expertise and earn extra income as well! 

When it comes to being a Young Living Independent Distributor, the process is much simpler – I do not have to “make” anything to sell. I get to advertise and sell a product that I love and believe in while earning extra income or free products that benefit the health of my family.  What could be better than that?  I also get to educate people on the wonderful things the Lord has created for us to use to maintain healthy bodies, prevent illness, etc.

Regardless if you ever decide to start your own business, our families must come first.  As a Christian wife and mother, I’ve learned that any extra responsibilities I wish to take on need to go through my husband first.  We are prayerful about taking on extra tasks, and I think this is very important for everyone to keep in mind.  If you must invest any amount of your own capital in a business venture, it is wise to negotiate the pros and cons.  In the end though, I do believe that every Christian family can have a successful small business and use it for the glory of the Lord!

Soli Deo Gloria!

Serving God and My Family,

Crystal <><

To find out more about Therapeutic Grade Essential Oils, check out my new website

2011 Reflections and Prayers for 2012

As the year of 2011 comes to an end, many people stop and take some time for deep reflection.  Some ponder the life events that occurred over the past 12 months, and try to find meaning or purpose in all of it.  Others move past the past and look on ahead to the future; making resolutions and plans for a prosperous and successful new year.  Then, there are those who do a little bit of both, reflect on the past 12 months while also planning for the next 12 months to come.  

When I reflect on the past 12 months so many thoughts come to mind, first being of my sweet Eleanor who was born on February 28^th in the safety and comfort of our home.  Her birthday is special in two very important ways:

• 1)      The Lord blessed us with a new daughter, Eleanor Michelle!  I experience two very painful miscarriages (for a total of 5 miscarriages) prior to becoming pregnant with her and I had prayed fervently that the Lord would bless my womb again – and He did!

• 2)      I experienced the wonderful blessing of a homebirth.  It is by far my most cherished accomplishment.  Having Eleanor at home permanently removed all fear of natural childbirth that had been plaguing me since I had my first child 5 years ago.  The Lord proved Himself merciful and gracious in that He gave me the strength and confidence to trust in His handy work in creating and designing my body to not only endure the pain of labor and childbirth but to fully enjoy and  revel in the miracle of life in the most precious way possible.  He secured for me a special bond with my sweet Eleanor that only furthers my deep appreciation for the miraculous life of all of my children. He used that one single experience to breed a confidence and passion for life, truth, and wellness that no one can steal from me!

Honesty is the next thing that comes to mind when I think about the past 12 months.  Sometime in the middle of the year I shared some of the struggles that my sweet Sofia had been having, and to my surprise I received an abundance of encouragement and love that far surpassed my expectations.  I also learned that I was not alone, and that other Christian families had struggled with the same thing, or were currently struggling.  The Lord brought people into my life that He used to help us help Sofia.  Over the past few months there have been great changes and all glory goes to the Lord!  Modifying her diet, incorporating a few new vitamins and supplements, not to mention all the time we spent praying for wisdom, has born more fruit than we ever imagined it would.  We got our daughter back!  She hasn’t had a meltdown in a couple of months and has just continued to blossom under the close and watchful care of parents who would go to the ends of the earth for her.

I’ve found that in the course of the past 12 months I’ve grown closer to my husband, and even more reliant on him.  I’ve learned some hard lessons on friendship and where my loyalty is to ultimately lie.  I’ve learned that relationships change, some for the better, and some for the worse and that is ok – life goes on.  I’ve learned that no matter what happens, I can depend on my husband for the loving compassion and encouragement that cannot be rendered from any other person.  Whether I have one friend, five friends, one hundred friends, or no friends; my heart is cherished by no one more than my husband.

Oh my darling children – the Lord has used the last year to renew my love for my children.  They are the Lord’s little gifts of joy all wrapped up in tender sweetness.  I have the great honor and pleasure of loving such precious daughters.  Sofia, Charlotte and Eleanor are my true delights; packages of loveliness.  I love being the mother of three little girls; each one with their unique personalities adds something distinctly different to our family.  I pray that the Lord gives me grace and wisdom when instructing them in the ways of the Lord, and discipling them for the work of biblical womanhood.  I have watched Sofia and Charlotte blossom into such tenderhearted little girls.  The Lord is showing Himself Sovereign in their lives as we witness Him cultivating their hearts for His use.  They love to learn about the Lord and each day the Lord blesses us when they share their hearts with us.  What an amazing honor to know that, at this moment we have our daughters’ hearts.  May we never take the awesome responsibility of shepherding their hearts for the glory of the Lord for granted.  We take the duty of guarding their hearts and minds so seriously for fear the Lord would smite us should we cause them to stumble.  They are so precious to us, how much more precious are they to Him, the One who made them?

Biblical womanhood and the journey of being the keeper of my home has been a quest from the moment I married my husband.  I’ve learned that when you are the mother of three little ones, the best place to spend the majority of my time is right at home with them.  There truly is no other place I’d rather be anyways.  My ministry is to my husband and children, and if I find myself being busy elsewhere, then I’ve effectively neglected my post, and things begin to fall apart.  My heart and affections need to be “plugged in” at home, throughout the course of my day and even throughout the night.  The Proverbs 31 woman never let her lamp burn out, and thus is the life of a mother with little ones – especially an exclusively breastfed little one.  

Helping and encouraging my husband is so important for the vitality of our marriage and family.  When scoffers try and attack his character or the genuineness of his personality then of course I am right there to defend him and to pray fervently against the attacks of the enemy.  I love my husband dearly, and am so very thankful the Lord allows me each day to be his helpmeet. 

Within this past year I have finished my Bachelor’s degree, which I had feared would never happen.  There were times that I simply wanted to give up, but I had much to prove to myself and to those who have labeled me a quitter all my life.  I remember as a teenager someone saying that I would never amount to anything; that I would always be a “screw-up”.  I am thankful that the Lord chose to show Himself merciful in my life because I would otherwise be something to be pitied.  All of my accomplishments are His, for I can do nothing good apart from Christ.  I’m thankful that He has given me a tenacity and a fierce desire for Truth, because if you saw the me that was before Christ, it sure was a pathetic sight to behold.  To God be the Glory!

The Lord showed my husband favor shortly after Eleanor was born and provided a wonderful job as a QA Manager/Analyst/Program Designer/IT Support/whatever the boss needs done!  He works for a Medical Software Development company and has learned more about the medical industry than he knew before.  He has earned a raise and is due for another review in a few months with another raise in store.  He enjoys his work, and one of the perks is that he can work from home if he has to; and has on several occasions worked late into the night or over the weekends.  He is currently creating custom graphics of the different parts of the eye (another hat he wears at work), and has enjoyed learning about that as well.  There are several people he works with who are of the same convictions as we are on mainstream medicine and health nutrition - including the owner, and this has given us great encouragement in the face of some who do not have the same convictions.  I've had the pleasure of watching my husband grow in a company that has given him job security and a place to hone his skills.  God is Good!

Not only do I have a crochet/sewing cottage business, I have recently became an Independent Distributor for Young Living Therapeutic Essential Oils.  I'm excited about this new business venture and joining Mrs. Stacy McDonald and many others in teaching others about the importance of health and wellness and how true Therapeutic essential oils can play a vital role in achieving optimum health.  I created my own website Southern Scentsabilities and am behind excited to share everything I've learned and am continuing to learn about caring for your families health through  the use of essential oils! 

 As this year comes to a close, and we all embark on the uncharted journey of a new year, I pray that the Lord would continue to remove those things from my heart and my life that seek to draw my affections away from Him and my family.  I pray that He would continue to guide me and teach me His ways.  I pray that He would strengthen my love and devotion for my husband and children, and cause me to find even more joy in being the keeper of my home.  I pray that as I continue to share my life through Serving God and Family that it would always point people to Christ.  I am who I am because the Lord has been merciful to me, and I pray that even when I write things that are controversial or against mainstream philosophies that I will remain consistent in a Biblical worldview, never faltering for fear of scrutiny or hateful criticism. 

I pray also that each one of my readers has a wonderful and blessed New Year, and that you will continue to seek the Lord in all things.  Love your husbands and children, and most of all, love the Lord with all of your heart! Soli Deo Gloria!

Serving God and My Family,

Crystal <><

7 Things to Do With Your Family This Thanksgiving

By Douglas W. Phillips

Many of my happiest memories as a young man, and now as the head of my own household, come from Thanksgiving. Traditionally, Thanksgiving has been a day where our dearest loved ones gather around the table and feast, followed by a time of poetry reading, Scripture recitations, song, more feasting, and family story telling. But more than anything, Thanksgiving has come to be a time when we focus as a family on gratitude. It is a time to humble ourselves in the face of God’s great mercy, and to chronicle the providences and blessings of God in our life. One of the blessings for which we are most grateful is you — the many friends of Vision Forum. So this year, the Phillips family wants to begin our Thanksgiving celebration by sharing seven simple recommendations for your own day of thanksgiving.

1. Stop and Thank God from the Bottom of Your Heart and the Depths of Your Soul

O come, let us sing unto the LORD: let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation. Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving, and make a joyful noise unto him with psalms. For the LORD is a great God, and a great King above all gods. In his hand are the deep places of the earth: the strength of the hills is his also. The sea is his, and he made it: and his hands formed the dry land. O come, let us worship and bow down: let us kneel before the LORD our maker. —Psalm 95:1-6

If you were to spend every waking moment of every day for the rest of your life noting God’s goodness, you would never begin to chronicle all the things for which you should thank the Lord. His blessings are innumerable. But on this day, take time to chronicle much. Get very specific. Thank the Lord for all things: Thank him for your provision, and the protection He has given to you all year. Thank Him for the pains and sorrows that are driving you closer to Him. Thank Him for the problems you have, and thank Him for all the horrors from which you have been spared. Thank Him for your parents, your children, and your loved ones. Thank Him for the Earth, the Moon, and the Sun. Thank Him for those friends who love you and who you love. Thank Him for the opportunities He has given to you. Thank Him for the mentors in your life. Thank Him for the sweet seasons and the beautiful memories He has given to you. Thank Him for His Church and His Word. But most of all thank Him for Jesus Christ. Because of Christ, you can be forgiven of sins, reconciled to the Father, and have the promise of eternal life.

2. Share the Greatest Stories of the Pilgrim Fathers and God’s Providence

Remember the days of old, consider the years of many generations: ask thy father, and he will shew thee; thy elders, and they will tell thee.—Deuteronomy 32:7

Thanksgiving Day is a time for quizzes and story-telling. A great place to begin is by dedicating time to recount the rich historical evidence of the providence of God in the life of this nation through the story of the Mayflower Pilgrims. From their humble beginnings as a cadre of faithful friends and devoted Christians meeting in Scrooby, England, to their visionary leadership and perseverance in the New World at Plymouth Plantation, these faithful Separatists left one of the greatest legacies in the history of the New Testament Church. Yet most American Christians know little to nothing of the true story of these indefatigable men and women of God. This Thanksgiving, remedy the problem by telling their story. If you don’t have any of the many books on the Pilgrims available from Vision Forum, do a little online research. Visit the website of Pilgrim Hall Museum, for example. Share the stories of the friendship of William Bradford and William Brewster; of the persecution of the Scrooby Congregation; of the hardship and perseverance of the families on board theMayflower; of the first Sabbath at Pulpit Rock; of the importance of the Church covenant and of the long first winter in America. Tell how God used a young Indian boy named Squanto to save the colonists, and share the story of the peace treaty between the Pilgrims and Chief Massasoit which lasted fifty years. Make sure to read the farewell letter of pastor John Robinson to his congregation. Have your children join in the story-telling. Make sure to emphasize the faithfulness and providence of the Lord.

3. Read the Fourth Chapter from Of Plymouth Plantation Aloud to Your Family

Last and not least, they cherished a great hope and inward zeal of laying good foundations, or at least making some ways toward it, for the propagation and advance of the gospel of the kingdom of Christ in the remote parts of the world, even though they should be but stepping stones to others in the performance of so great a work.—William Bradford

If you only read from one book outside the Bible this Thanksgiving, make it Of Plymouth Plantation by William Bradford. And if you only have time for one chapter, make sure it is the fourth. It is in this chapter that we learn about the true reasons why these home-schooling pilgrims debated over whether or not they should risk their lives to go to America, the ultimate reasons for their departure (including concern over bad peer influences with their children), and their tremendous confidence in God. Most importantly, it is here that you read of Bradford’s multi-generational vision of victory. Note: From the approximately fifty survivors of the first winter, more than 30 million descendants have come.

4. Take a Pilgrimage to the Homes of the Pilgrims — From Your Living Room

Remove not the ancient landmark, which thy fathers have set.—Proverbs 22:28

We are losing our landmarks to liberty in our nation. As I documented in my article Plymouth Crock, we are even desecrating the landmarks to our Pilgrim fathers. This is one reason why I believe it is so important that we physically bring our children to the great Ebenezers of our freedom while they yet remain. Finally, after more than a decade leading families to Plymouth, home of the Pilgrim fathers, I was able to take 100 Americans this year on a journey to Scrooby, England, and the little manor house where the Pilgrim congregation was birthed. What a journey! Please let me share it with you by watching the video which I have posted on my blog. Then learn about the little eight-hundred-year-old manor house that changed the world in my article, “A Pilgrimage to Scrooby.”

5. Read George Washington’s Thanksgiving Proclamation at the Dinner Table

Whereas it is the duty of all nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey His will, to be grateful for His benefits, and humbly to implore His protection and favor; and Whereas both Houses of Congress have, by their joint committee, requested me to “recommend to the people of the United States a day of public thanksgiving and prayer, to be observed by acknowledging with grateful hearts the many and signal favors of Almighty God, especially by affording them an opportunity peaceably to establish a form of government for their safety and happiness. Now, therefore, I do recommend and assign Thursday, the 26th day of November next, to be devoted by the people of these States to the service of that great and glorious Being who is the beneficent author of all the good that was, that is, or that will be.—George Washington

The practice of setting aside days of prayer, days of fasting and humiliation before the Lord, and days of thanksgiving for the mercies ofJesus Christ was practiced by our Pilgrim and Puritan fathers, promoted by our legislatures and Congress, and honored by our presidents. On this national day of Thanksgiving, let’s remember that we do not honor a “turkey day,” but the God of Heaven who George Washington described in his Thanksgiving Proclamation of 1789, as “the great Lord and Ruler of Nations.” I recommend that you print off the proclamation and read it before your dinner meal.

6. Tell the Story of the Providence of God in the Life of Your Family

I will open my mouth in a parable: I will utter dark sayings of old: Which we have heard and known, and our fathers have told us. We will not hide them from their children, shewing to the generation to come the praises of the LORD, and his strength, and his wonderful works that he hath done. —Psalm 78:2-4

The Lord has not only blessed this nation with a rich providential history, but you too have a story that needs to be told. Your children need to hear it and understand the mercies of God in the life of your family. So, this Thanksgiving, chronicle all that God has done in the history of your family. How many generations has your family been in America? How did they get here? When, if ever, did your fathers embrace the Gospel?

7. Purpose to Fight Hard and Hold Fast

History is not made by majorities, but by dedicated minorities of like-minded friends who have joined together in common cause. This was the Pilgrim legacy, and it must be ours as well. To change the world, courageous men and women must “fight hard and hold fast” to the things they know to be true. Most people will not fight hard and hold fast (which is why most people are spectators instead of world-changers). If you are grateful, purpose to be engaged. Purpose to be part of an important work for the Lord. Purpose to stand with those who are fighting hard and holding fast. Purpose to be a twenty-first-century pilgrim for Jesus Christ.

Conclusion: Happy Thanksgiving! On behalf of Beall, Joshua, Justice, Liberty, Jubilee, Faith Evangeline, Honor, Providence, and Virginia, and all the families of Vision Forum, we wish you a truly happy, truly grateful, truly blessed Thanksgiving Day! May the Lord bless you and keep you, and may He cause His face to shine upon you.

Article from The Vision Forum