We are reaching an age in time when discretion has crept out the back door...or in some cases, just ran blatantly right out the front! With the wide open spaces of email, Facebook, blogging, and mySpace, we are free to expose whatever we want for the whole world to hear and see. In a time when Christ has been brought down to our level as a means of excusing sin, we have lost our discretion. We no longer blush at mentioning private matters in a very public manner. It's no wonder that women are no longer retaining their feminine virtues - we have been exposed to all kinds of perverse and unladylike manner of living. In fact, we are often eager to engage in such attitudes, speech and behavior. We parade photos of ourselves in swimsuits all across our Facebook profiles. We splash flirtatious words across the message boards of the Internet. We speak in vague ambiguities merely to stir up curiosity among our peers. What's worse, is that we have forgotten not only our discretion, but our call to discipleship amongst the covenant community. Scripture is clear that older men are to be "sober minded, dignified, self-controlled, sound in faith, in love and in steadfastness," and women are to be "reverent in behavior...to teach what is good, and so train the young women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled, pure, working at home, kind and submissive to their own husbands". Why? "So that the Word of God may not be reviled" (Titus 2). When we disregard these instructions and begin to interact and behave just as the world, our ability to influence others for Christ is not only discredited, it is mocked and reviled. I am not seeking to be legalistic in the sense of telling you what you can and cannot wear or what you can do with your "free time". What I am saying is that when you document it and publicize it in an arena where people have no understanding of the background or reasoning behind it, you cannot expect there to be no consequences. Posting photos that call attention to our physical beauty make it quite obvious what we are looking for. Writing about personal matters in a way that leaves much information left to the interpreter, or simply discourages them because we have made our complaints quite clear, has nothing to do with mutual accountability or fellowship within the body. By doing such things, we are provoking others to sin in one way or another. Each one of us is an older and younger woman in every relationship we encounter. Even as a young woman, we are an older woman to those girls we interact with. With each year that passes, we should become more and more of a wise and careful influence on those around us.
We have been warned about this godlessness in the last days. As Paul wrote to Timothy, "For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to parents, ungrateful, unholy, heartless, unappeasable, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not loving good, treacherous, reckless, swollen with conceit, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power. Avoid such people. For among them are those who creep into households and capture weak women, burdened with sins and led astray by various passions, always learning but never able to arrive at the knowledge of truth." Does this apply to men and women? Of course, as does all of Scripture. But since I am a woman, I am speaking to women here. How is it that weak women are captured, especially if they are in their own homes, as they should be? Because they are not on guard, and they are not busy tending to the things of the Lord. It is quite possible to be a homemaker, never working outside the home, yet be dragged away by the evils of this world. How are we spending our time at home? Aimlessly clicking the remote? Wandering around on one another's profiles looking for juicy or exciting information? Are we using every opportunity - and I mean every - to exalt the name of Christ in one another's lives? It is this age when we are the most in danger, because everything has become so accessible. There are no restrictions any longer.
May we be always pursuing the righteous fruit of Christ. As Paul said to Titus, "For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age, waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for Himself a people for His own possession who are zealous for good works".
Friday, June 11, 2010
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Comfort
"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. For as we share abundantly in Christ's sufferings, so through Christ we share abundantly in comfort too." Colossians 1:3-5
We encourage because we have been encouraged in Christ. We love because we have been loved in Christ. We serve because we have been eternally served beyond all that we could ask or think. We can extend mercy because of the mercy that has been lavished upon us. We cover one another's sins because Christ has covered ours. We speak with knowledge and wisdom, because to do otherwise is to deny what we have been given in Christ.
We encourage because we have been encouraged in Christ. We love because we have been loved in Christ. We serve because we have been eternally served beyond all that we could ask or think. We can extend mercy because of the mercy that has been lavished upon us. We cover one another's sins because Christ has covered ours. We speak with knowledge and wisdom, because to do otherwise is to deny what we have been given in Christ.
Friday, May 28, 2010
Not much to say...
Recent days have brought about distractions as I transition from some major responsibilities of life to some new ventures for a time. This transition is exciting and welcomed, though not without some trepidation. As I contemplate my fitness for the task that lies ahead, I am quickly downcast and despairing - if I listen to the accusations of the enemy. Sometimes there are things we want so badly in life, and we pray and pursue with great fervency. But then when we finally get the thing we so desperately desired, we suddenly aren't sure if we want it anymore. Not because it has lost its value, but because the reality of getting it sets in and we begin to realize how it might change us...or worse yet, how it might require us to be changed through challenging and sanctifying circumstances.
The great Scottish preacher, Robert Murray M'Cheyne, said this: "It has always been my aim, and it is my prayer, to have no plans with regard to myself, well assured as I am, that the place where the Savior sees meet to place me must ever be the best place for me."
One thing I have learned by experience as a woman, is that we tend to dislike change. And we tend to have our own agenda and schedule, with a neat little planner to match, and coordinating post-it notes to keep everything organized. Of course, not all women are planners. But most of us have some variation of planning/organization interests and skill. I would even go so far as to say that this tendency may stem from our creation design, as God has used this quality as one of woman's primary means of blessing man as his helper.
Looking back at Eve's fall into sin, and the resulting impact that has had on all of mankind, I would also say that this one area where woman is most gifted, is certainly also an area in which she is the most likely to have her depravity manifested. Do we not take our planning and administrating abilities to the extremes of dominating, ruling over and even criticizing men? We allow the good of how God has created us to become the very means by which we can bring the most frustration and difficulty in our relationships. We know that one of the critical created elements of a woman's role is to be submissive. This role often meets with failure because we are unwilling to let go of ouyr demands. We demand to know what's going on. We demand to be informed about plans and decisions. We demand to be aware of the plans for the week and the meals we will prepare. We don't like operating on the fly, being flexible and easygoing. And typically, our angry and impatient responses reveal a heart that has plotted and planned according to a selfish will.
What is the solution to such matters? To be as Robert Murray M'Cheyne and remind ourselves that nothing is according to our human will. The Bible says that a man plans his ways, but God is the One who directs His steps. So while it is important to be orderly and thoughtful with the time and resources God has given us, we must remember that anything we do is the direct result of the perfect will of our Heavenly Father. He is the One guiding our every step and removing obstacles or opening windows of opportunity. It is He who determines our plans, and there are no regrets. Where He sees fit to place us is His divine and holy will.
The great Scottish preacher, Robert Murray M'Cheyne, said this: "It has always been my aim, and it is my prayer, to have no plans with regard to myself, well assured as I am, that the place where the Savior sees meet to place me must ever be the best place for me."
One thing I have learned by experience as a woman, is that we tend to dislike change. And we tend to have our own agenda and schedule, with a neat little planner to match, and coordinating post-it notes to keep everything organized. Of course, not all women are planners. But most of us have some variation of planning/organization interests and skill. I would even go so far as to say that this tendency may stem from our creation design, as God has used this quality as one of woman's primary means of blessing man as his helper.
Looking back at Eve's fall into sin, and the resulting impact that has had on all of mankind, I would also say that this one area where woman is most gifted, is certainly also an area in which she is the most likely to have her depravity manifested. Do we not take our planning and administrating abilities to the extremes of dominating, ruling over and even criticizing men? We allow the good of how God has created us to become the very means by which we can bring the most frustration and difficulty in our relationships. We know that one of the critical created elements of a woman's role is to be submissive. This role often meets with failure because we are unwilling to let go of ouyr demands. We demand to know what's going on. We demand to be informed about plans and decisions. We demand to be aware of the plans for the week and the meals we will prepare. We don't like operating on the fly, being flexible and easygoing. And typically, our angry and impatient responses reveal a heart that has plotted and planned according to a selfish will.
What is the solution to such matters? To be as Robert Murray M'Cheyne and remind ourselves that nothing is according to our human will. The Bible says that a man plans his ways, but God is the One who directs His steps. So while it is important to be orderly and thoughtful with the time and resources God has given us, we must remember that anything we do is the direct result of the perfect will of our Heavenly Father. He is the One guiding our every step and removing obstacles or opening windows of opportunity. It is He who determines our plans, and there are no regrets. Where He sees fit to place us is His divine and holy will.
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Motives for righteousness
Something I have been contemplating a great deal in recent days is to discern my motives for doing things. It is an important thing for the Christian to think about, as we know that it is God who searches and knows our hearts. Only He can fully determine if there are any wicked ways within us. Then the next critical question is to determine whether we continue doing those things once we recognize that our motives may have been wrong. The more complex consideration is when those things we do are good things - like serving and caring for others. We care for each other's children, clean and cook for our families, sing in the choir, volunteer long hours in the nursery, teach a Sunday School class, disciple young people, plan church outreach activities, travel on mission trips around the world, giving money to our church, making meals for those who are ill, and the list goes on and on. Are not these all things that have been commanded in Scripture, as we seek to live out the call to be Christ's disciples by caring for the weak and meeting the needs of the brethren? So if they are good things, what should our response be when we discover that our motives have been tainted by sinful affections? Maybe we are trying to make a good impression on others sometimes. Possibly we are avoiding dealing with a personal area of our own lives by filling up our time with "busy good deeds". And what complicates such matters is when they are coupled with a sincere desire to serve Christ's Bride, the Church. Loving the local body of believers is a good and proper motivation for serving others. But more necessary is a love for Christ Himself, knowing that we are His servants and belong to Him.
So back to the original question - do we continue doing works of righteousness even when we know that our motives are not entirely Christlike and pure? A well-known theologian, John Gerstner, said this: "The thing that really separates us from God is not so much our sin, but our damnable good works". When we do good things - for others, for the Church, or even for God - and are motivated by any thought of gaining favorable standing, then we have certainly missed the mark and allowed sinful assumptions to captivate our minds and hearts. We have moved from being led by the humility of Christ to being provoked by hopes of increasing our self-worth. It is these works that then become a source of judgment upon our own souls rather than an active living out of our transformed hearts. A believer should be motivated by the joy found in Christ as the source of all pleasure and provision. Any holiness or righteousness we exhibit must be recognized as an "alien" quality that has only been cultivated in our hearts by the powerful inner workings of our great and mighty God! It is in these truths that we find our answer. YES, we do continue pressing on in righteous duty even if our hearts are tainted by sinful motivations. Tim Chester says, "There will be times when we do act out of duty, but we do this believing that duty leads to joy, that denying ourselves leads to gaining our life (Mark 8:35-36)". As we obey and continue to seek out opportunities to serve others, meeting needs and helping, then we will experience joy in it. And as we recognize sinful motives that might be hindering us from that true joy then we can and must be quick to repent of them and turn to Christ for renewed purity and passion in sacrificially serving His Church.
So back to the original question - do we continue doing works of righteousness even when we know that our motives are not entirely Christlike and pure? A well-known theologian, John Gerstner, said this: "The thing that really separates us from God is not so much our sin, but our damnable good works". When we do good things - for others, for the Church, or even for God - and are motivated by any thought of gaining favorable standing, then we have certainly missed the mark and allowed sinful assumptions to captivate our minds and hearts. We have moved from being led by the humility of Christ to being provoked by hopes of increasing our self-worth. It is these works that then become a source of judgment upon our own souls rather than an active living out of our transformed hearts. A believer should be motivated by the joy found in Christ as the source of all pleasure and provision. Any holiness or righteousness we exhibit must be recognized as an "alien" quality that has only been cultivated in our hearts by the powerful inner workings of our great and mighty God! It is in these truths that we find our answer. YES, we do continue pressing on in righteous duty even if our hearts are tainted by sinful motivations. Tim Chester says, "There will be times when we do act out of duty, but we do this believing that duty leads to joy, that denying ourselves leads to gaining our life (Mark 8:35-36)". As we obey and continue to seek out opportunities to serve others, meeting needs and helping, then we will experience joy in it. And as we recognize sinful motives that might be hindering us from that true joy then we can and must be quick to repent of them and turn to Christ for renewed purity and passion in sacrificially serving His Church.
Friday, May 7, 2010
Culture of Fatigue
"I'm so tired."
"I don't feel well."
"I need a coffee."
"If I could just have a break and take a couple days off."
"I guess I should call off today. I think I overdid it."
"You're a little under the weather? Well, I guess it's alright if you stay home."
"I just need a day to recuperate."
Sound familiar? It certainly does to me - and not from others, but from my own lips. In fact, let me begin this post making it perfectly clear that my thoughts and convictions on this topic are just as much from seeing my own attitudes as those around me. There are many reasons why I am contemplating this topic. Firstly, because I see my own sinful tendencies to bewail my personal fatigue. And then, too, between being a teacher and being involved in church ministry, I see the constant habits of tardiness and absences, which have become more and more commonplace and easily accepted in our culture. Furthermore, I see these tendencies toward weariness even in the midst of legitimate life hardships amongst friends and family.
In fact, it would seem at times, that we have created a competition of sorts as to who is the most tired or who "deserves" a break most. We say things like, "Well, you don't know what it's like having two jobs and school," or "You won't understand until you have a husband and kids and are trying to juggle all the scheduling and responsibilities of that." This happens when we are looking at ourselves and not the bigger picture. We see our life circumstances as paramount and as more weighty or serious than those of others. Or we even try to justify our tardiness or inability to keep some commitments because we were too busy keeping a more important one. For instance, I might call off work or skip school, only to show up later to a church function. Now, before you spew venomous anger at my boldness in stating such a thing, remember this is not meant as a sweeping indictment. Of course, there may be sincere exceptions to this from time to time. However, in general, when this happens, is it not often because we find merit in these religious works as gaining us better standing with the Lord; yet, the "smaller" things (like keeping your home, helping a friend, exhibiting a commitment to one's job and education) are not viewed with such urgency? I will be transparent here, for the sake of reaffirming that this post is just as much for my own correction as it is intended for the benefit of others. A couple years ago, I took on graduate school and am now in the process of writing my very large thesis to finish up that degree. At the same time, I am a teacher, do tutoring a couple days a week, involved in several ministries at my church that require a significant time commitment, typically don't sleep really well, and my Mom is preparing to undergo surgery for cancer this week. I say all that to give insight into why these things are weighing on my mind. I am quick to complain at times of how tired I am and how my schedule doesn't leave much room for "down time". But when did "down time" become a right? There is no mention of it in Scripture, and when "rest" or a reprieve are referenced in the Bible, it is clear that those times were used to refresh one's soul - not as an excuse to lay around and do nothing.
Are we learning and are we teaching our children to press on and be diligent in the midst of discomfort or weariness? Or are we cultivating habits of giving in at the first sing of fatigue? Are we using biblical language when evaluating ourselves and our children? Or are we quick to term what is actually laziness as boredom or fatigue? Of course there are times of legitimate illness or exhaustion and a genunine need for rest and refreshment. However, are we making those distinctions biblically and from a perspective that is informed by the Word, or from our own self-serving attitudes?
Furthermore, what example are we setting for the lost world, or even in our own homes/churches to the young people who we desire to see pursuing diligent and fervent commitments to the things of the Lord? Does our unsaved boss or our unregenerate young child see clearly our biblical work ethic, one which reflects habits that are self-sacrificing and willing to forgo the personal comforts of relaxation and entertainment? Could this be why we are seeing an ever-increasing tendency toward extended adolescence? Children who never want to grow into adulthood, don't take responsibility seriously, fail to finish anything or finish with excellence?
Our ministries will never be taken seriously as long as we don't take seriously the basic responsibilities God has given us in caring for and maintaining the home, exhibiting diligence in attending work/school, being prompt and showing faithfulness to keep our commitments, and being willing to work hard even when we are tired. One of my pastors has recently said, "The work of the ministry is carried out primarily by tired people." Could that not have been said by the many faithful ministry laborers from years past? Did not Paul work unceasingly for the welfare of the churches? Did not the Puritans labor with undistracted diligence and exhibit amazing fortitude? Yet, even in closing out this topic, I am quickly reminded to examine all these matters in light of the motives behind them. Being prompt, diligent and showing forth reliable work ethic can easily become a "work of righteousness," one which can be held forth as some sort of evidence that one deserves recognition. Battling the temptations toward laziness in this life - for the believer - must be done out of an overflow of his love for Christ. Paul sacrificially served and ministered and worked hard, not to gain favor with God, but as an outflow of his own calling from and love for his Lord and Savior.
"I don't feel well."
"I need a coffee."
"If I could just have a break and take a couple days off."
"I guess I should call off today. I think I overdid it."
"You're a little under the weather? Well, I guess it's alright if you stay home."
"I just need a day to recuperate."
Sound familiar? It certainly does to me - and not from others, but from my own lips. In fact, let me begin this post making it perfectly clear that my thoughts and convictions on this topic are just as much from seeing my own attitudes as those around me. There are many reasons why I am contemplating this topic. Firstly, because I see my own sinful tendencies to bewail my personal fatigue. And then, too, between being a teacher and being involved in church ministry, I see the constant habits of tardiness and absences, which have become more and more commonplace and easily accepted in our culture. Furthermore, I see these tendencies toward weariness even in the midst of legitimate life hardships amongst friends and family.
In fact, it would seem at times, that we have created a competition of sorts as to who is the most tired or who "deserves" a break most. We say things like, "Well, you don't know what it's like having two jobs and school," or "You won't understand until you have a husband and kids and are trying to juggle all the scheduling and responsibilities of that." This happens when we are looking at ourselves and not the bigger picture. We see our life circumstances as paramount and as more weighty or serious than those of others. Or we even try to justify our tardiness or inability to keep some commitments because we were too busy keeping a more important one. For instance, I might call off work or skip school, only to show up later to a church function. Now, before you spew venomous anger at my boldness in stating such a thing, remember this is not meant as a sweeping indictment. Of course, there may be sincere exceptions to this from time to time. However, in general, when this happens, is it not often because we find merit in these religious works as gaining us better standing with the Lord; yet, the "smaller" things (like keeping your home, helping a friend, exhibiting a commitment to one's job and education) are not viewed with such urgency? I will be transparent here, for the sake of reaffirming that this post is just as much for my own correction as it is intended for the benefit of others. A couple years ago, I took on graduate school and am now in the process of writing my very large thesis to finish up that degree. At the same time, I am a teacher, do tutoring a couple days a week, involved in several ministries at my church that require a significant time commitment, typically don't sleep really well, and my Mom is preparing to undergo surgery for cancer this week. I say all that to give insight into why these things are weighing on my mind. I am quick to complain at times of how tired I am and how my schedule doesn't leave much room for "down time". But when did "down time" become a right? There is no mention of it in Scripture, and when "rest" or a reprieve are referenced in the Bible, it is clear that those times were used to refresh one's soul - not as an excuse to lay around and do nothing.
Are we learning and are we teaching our children to press on and be diligent in the midst of discomfort or weariness? Or are we cultivating habits of giving in at the first sing of fatigue? Are we using biblical language when evaluating ourselves and our children? Or are we quick to term what is actually laziness as boredom or fatigue? Of course there are times of legitimate illness or exhaustion and a genunine need for rest and refreshment. However, are we making those distinctions biblically and from a perspective that is informed by the Word, or from our own self-serving attitudes?
Furthermore, what example are we setting for the lost world, or even in our own homes/churches to the young people who we desire to see pursuing diligent and fervent commitments to the things of the Lord? Does our unsaved boss or our unregenerate young child see clearly our biblical work ethic, one which reflects habits that are self-sacrificing and willing to forgo the personal comforts of relaxation and entertainment? Could this be why we are seeing an ever-increasing tendency toward extended adolescence? Children who never want to grow into adulthood, don't take responsibility seriously, fail to finish anything or finish with excellence?
Our ministries will never be taken seriously as long as we don't take seriously the basic responsibilities God has given us in caring for and maintaining the home, exhibiting diligence in attending work/school, being prompt and showing faithfulness to keep our commitments, and being willing to work hard even when we are tired. One of my pastors has recently said, "The work of the ministry is carried out primarily by tired people." Could that not have been said by the many faithful ministry laborers from years past? Did not Paul work unceasingly for the welfare of the churches? Did not the Puritans labor with undistracted diligence and exhibit amazing fortitude? Yet, even in closing out this topic, I am quickly reminded to examine all these matters in light of the motives behind them. Being prompt, diligent and showing forth reliable work ethic can easily become a "work of righteousness," one which can be held forth as some sort of evidence that one deserves recognition. Battling the temptations toward laziness in this life - for the believer - must be done out of an overflow of his love for Christ. Paul sacrificially served and ministered and worked hard, not to gain favor with God, but as an outflow of his own calling from and love for his Lord and Savior.
Friday, April 30, 2010
And such were some of you...
In recent years, the evangelical world has seen a number of well-respected figures fall from their thrones of influence. Pastors have been caught in adulterous affairs, TV evangelists has been accused of swindling thousands of dollars from faithful viewers, Christian stars have left their spouses for another lover (or even for many reasons that are not biblical grounds for divorce) and then remarried...and now beloved recording artists have confessed to living an "alternative" lifestyle. I have been pondering this post for several days, and still am uncertain as to whether I have allowed it to settle soundly enough in my mind. I do not want my speech to be hasty or overly judgmental. However, I think it is imperative that the Church (meaning those who are sincere believers in the Lordship of Jesus Christ and who have repented of their sin and turned to Him in complete faith) do take a position on such matters. Why? Because we are commanded to take a stand on the issue of sin...both in our personal lives and in the lives of others who name themselves as Christians. It is not my obligation to judge those who do not confess Christ as Savior, for they will be judged by God the Father Himself at the great white throne. But the Bible clearly tells us that we must lovingly "judge" one another within the Church by providing accountability and clarity when we see issues of sin manifested in one another's lives. In fact, chapter 5 of 1st Corinthians tells us that we are to judge within the Church concerning sexual immorality and to purge from the Church those who are unrepentant. We must deal swiftly and biblically with sin in our personal lives and with the sins that affect the body of Christ corporately.
Unfortunately, by taking a stand on such issues, I will most likely be labeled as unloving, prejudicial, arrogant and self-righteous. The verse, "let him without sin cast the first stone," inevitably becomes the battle cry against Christians who speak biblical truth in the face of such behaviors. Yet it is my Christian love which compels me to write. My love for Christ demands that I love His Word and love others that He has created - and in that love, I must call them to repentance so that they may be reconciled to the Savior. Is it not precious and faithful love that has been lavished upon me when a fellow brother or sister in Christ has graciously pointed out my sins and calls me to repentance? Sometimes I am so blind to my own deceitful ways that it takes the bold and yet compassionate admonitions of a Christian friend to draw me back into a clear understanding of God and His ways. The Christian life is rooted in perseverance, and we clearly depend on one another in order to persevere. Yes, God is the One who holds my soul in the palm of His hand, but He often uses fellow Christians to point my soul back to Him.
Thankfully, in God's providence, He has brought me to a church in which the love and forgiveness of Christ is seen on a consistent basis, as wayward members are welcomed back into fellowship upon their repentance and restoration. It is a joyful time when a brother or sister has come to recognize their sinful ways and then seeks to be reconciled to God and those in the Church. I have personally experienced this when I have been confronted of sins observed in my own life, but am always reminded of the love that the one confronting has for me and that their desire is for my eternal welfare. When an adulterous man has sought forgiveness and true biblical restoration, it has been granted. When a rebellious young adult who has lashed out against her family, returns in love and sorrow over her sin, she is welcomed just as the prodigal son. When I am unloving, bitter or thoughtless in my attitudes toward others, my church family is often eager to extend mercy and forgiveness.
Regarding the issue of sexual sin, and specifically, homosexuality, I would be a liar to say that Christians typically approach this issue with love and graciousness. Anyone who truly understands the grace that has been granted them in Christ Jesus would be eager to extend such compassion and mercy. We are often quick to lay down accusations filled with arrogance and pride. However, just because some in the Church do not deal with the fornicator, adulterer, or liar with Christ-exalting humility, does not mean that we lay aside God's Word altogether and allow sin to reign freely.
One of the most beautiful and obvious examples of Christian love that calls one out of sin is found in the dialogue between Christ and the woman at the well. Here, Christ confronted the woman with the fact that she had numerous husbands, explained to her the way of eternal life, and then told her to "go and sin no more". He loved her and so He told her the truth about herself. He did not offer her a salvation that was free for her own interpretation, as we so often do. The grace was freely given, but a manifestation of true faith was that the woman responded in obedience. There is no such thing as truth if it is not absolute, so saying that truth is whatever I make it to be or interpret it as, makes my "truth" merely an opinion. Jennifer Knapp, like all of us when we live in the deceitfulness of the sinful flesh, is seeking to measure her faith by experience instead of by God's Word. She has become her own source of authority instead of God being her authority. Therefore, her truth has become relative.
May we be quick, believers, to lovingly and gently call out the sin of a Christian brother or sister. But may we be even quicker to examine our own sinful hearts and "lay aside every weight which so easily entangles". May the Lord use such things to keep His Bride (the Church) pure and undefiled. May He show mercy and wisdom to Jennifer Knapp, and the many like her, who are so driven by emotion and experience, and bring them to a proper understanding of His Word, interpreting it as it is and not for how we would like for it to be. And may He be gracious to us all, for He is coming for us one day, and that may be very soon. May we be anticipating that day, preparing ourselves as the Bride does for the Bridegroom, without spot or blemish, and savoring Christ in all things.
"But you must remember, beloved, the predictions of the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ. They said to you, 'In the last time there will be scoffers, following their own ungodly passions.' It is these who cause divisions, worldly people, devoid of the Spirit. But you, beloved, building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life. And have mercy on those who doubt, save others by snatching them out of the fire, to others show mercy with fear, hating even the garment stained by the flesh" (Jude 17-23).
Unfortunately, by taking a stand on such issues, I will most likely be labeled as unloving, prejudicial, arrogant and self-righteous. The verse, "let him without sin cast the first stone," inevitably becomes the battle cry against Christians who speak biblical truth in the face of such behaviors. Yet it is my Christian love which compels me to write. My love for Christ demands that I love His Word and love others that He has created - and in that love, I must call them to repentance so that they may be reconciled to the Savior. Is it not precious and faithful love that has been lavished upon me when a fellow brother or sister in Christ has graciously pointed out my sins and calls me to repentance? Sometimes I am so blind to my own deceitful ways that it takes the bold and yet compassionate admonitions of a Christian friend to draw me back into a clear understanding of God and His ways. The Christian life is rooted in perseverance, and we clearly depend on one another in order to persevere. Yes, God is the One who holds my soul in the palm of His hand, but He often uses fellow Christians to point my soul back to Him.
Thankfully, in God's providence, He has brought me to a church in which the love and forgiveness of Christ is seen on a consistent basis, as wayward members are welcomed back into fellowship upon their repentance and restoration. It is a joyful time when a brother or sister has come to recognize their sinful ways and then seeks to be reconciled to God and those in the Church. I have personally experienced this when I have been confronted of sins observed in my own life, but am always reminded of the love that the one confronting has for me and that their desire is for my eternal welfare. When an adulterous man has sought forgiveness and true biblical restoration, it has been granted. When a rebellious young adult who has lashed out against her family, returns in love and sorrow over her sin, she is welcomed just as the prodigal son. When I am unloving, bitter or thoughtless in my attitudes toward others, my church family is often eager to extend mercy and forgiveness.
Regarding the issue of sexual sin, and specifically, homosexuality, I would be a liar to say that Christians typically approach this issue with love and graciousness. Anyone who truly understands the grace that has been granted them in Christ Jesus would be eager to extend such compassion and mercy. We are often quick to lay down accusations filled with arrogance and pride. However, just because some in the Church do not deal with the fornicator, adulterer, or liar with Christ-exalting humility, does not mean that we lay aside God's Word altogether and allow sin to reign freely.
One of the most beautiful and obvious examples of Christian love that calls one out of sin is found in the dialogue between Christ and the woman at the well. Here, Christ confronted the woman with the fact that she had numerous husbands, explained to her the way of eternal life, and then told her to "go and sin no more". He loved her and so He told her the truth about herself. He did not offer her a salvation that was free for her own interpretation, as we so often do. The grace was freely given, but a manifestation of true faith was that the woman responded in obedience. There is no such thing as truth if it is not absolute, so saying that truth is whatever I make it to be or interpret it as, makes my "truth" merely an opinion. Jennifer Knapp, like all of us when we live in the deceitfulness of the sinful flesh, is seeking to measure her faith by experience instead of by God's Word. She has become her own source of authority instead of God being her authority. Therefore, her truth has become relative.
May we be quick, believers, to lovingly and gently call out the sin of a Christian brother or sister. But may we be even quicker to examine our own sinful hearts and "lay aside every weight which so easily entangles". May the Lord use such things to keep His Bride (the Church) pure and undefiled. May He show mercy and wisdom to Jennifer Knapp, and the many like her, who are so driven by emotion and experience, and bring them to a proper understanding of His Word, interpreting it as it is and not for how we would like for it to be. And may He be gracious to us all, for He is coming for us one day, and that may be very soon. May we be anticipating that day, preparing ourselves as the Bride does for the Bridegroom, without spot or blemish, and savoring Christ in all things.
"But you must remember, beloved, the predictions of the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ. They said to you, 'In the last time there will be scoffers, following their own ungodly passions.' It is these who cause divisions, worldly people, devoid of the Spirit. But you, beloved, building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life. And have mercy on those who doubt, save others by snatching them out of the fire, to others show mercy with fear, hating even the garment stained by the flesh" (Jude 17-23).
Saturday, April 24, 2010
Contrasting between God and man
My posting has been rather sparse this month, as I am in the midst of some very hectic times, as well as some pivotal self-reflection. However, as I was driving home tonight, the Lord was so good to use a favorite song to point out the vast divide between His glorious and perfect character and my fleshly, self-inflated character. One of my favorite songs on the Gateway Worship album is "You are Good," and as I was listening to it with the windows down on a beautiful evening, here is what stood out to me:
"Your kindness is forever...Your goodness if forever...Your mercy is forever." How different from God I truly am, and how I long to attain more diligently the character of His Son, Christ Jesus. My kindness is so limited by whether others treat me kindly. Was not Christ's kindness always perfect and filled with compassion to those around Him? And yet I find it difficult to be kind even for a moment sometimes. I become easily annoyed and frustrated with people when they don't do things my way, and I take their disobedience or mistreatments more as a personal offense instead of being righteously concerned about how they might be sinning against the Lord. My goodness is often hindered by selfish motives, prideful pursuits for attention and vain glory. Christ was always filled with a goodness that was concerned only with His Father receiving all the honor and praise. And my mercy is so restrained by the evil unforgiveness that remains deep within my heart. Christ told the woman at the well all of her sin, and yet was so eager to spread His loving wings over her, calling her to repentance and yet doing so in a manner of biblical affection. Even my best acts of love towards others are tainted by my inner desire to be loved and affirmed.
Lord, teach me to be kind in the ways You are kind. Train me to be filled with goodness, a righteous goodness that is not of this world. Mold me to be merciful, remembering the sins of others no more and being quick to extend an arm of sweet unity in the body.
"Your kindness is forever...Your goodness if forever...Your mercy is forever." How different from God I truly am, and how I long to attain more diligently the character of His Son, Christ Jesus. My kindness is so limited by whether others treat me kindly. Was not Christ's kindness always perfect and filled with compassion to those around Him? And yet I find it difficult to be kind even for a moment sometimes. I become easily annoyed and frustrated with people when they don't do things my way, and I take their disobedience or mistreatments more as a personal offense instead of being righteously concerned about how they might be sinning against the Lord. My goodness is often hindered by selfish motives, prideful pursuits for attention and vain glory. Christ was always filled with a goodness that was concerned only with His Father receiving all the honor and praise. And my mercy is so restrained by the evil unforgiveness that remains deep within my heart. Christ told the woman at the well all of her sin, and yet was so eager to spread His loving wings over her, calling her to repentance and yet doing so in a manner of biblical affection. Even my best acts of love towards others are tainted by my inner desire to be loved and affirmed.
Lord, teach me to be kind in the ways You are kind. Train me to be filled with goodness, a righteous goodness that is not of this world. Mold me to be merciful, remembering the sins of others no more and being quick to extend an arm of sweet unity in the body.
Friday, April 9, 2010
Feminism as Fraud...
Taken from the book, "Verses of Virtue" by Elizabeth Beall Phillips:
As for my people, children are their oppressors, and women rule over them. O my people, they which lead thee cause thee to err, and destroy the way of thy paths. The Lord standeth up to plead, and standeth to judge the people...
Moreover the Lord saith, Because the daughters of Zion are haughty, and walk with stretched forth necks and wanton eyes, walking and mincing as they go, and making tinkling with their feet; Therefore, the Lord will smite with a scab the crown of the head of the daughters of Zion, and the Lord will discover their secret parts.
In that day the Lord will take away the bravery of their tinkling ornaments about their feet, and their cauls, and their round tires like the moon, the chains, and the bracelets, and the mufflers. The bonnets, and the ornaments of the legs, and the headbands, and the tablets, and the earrings, the rings, and nose jewels, the changeable suits of apparel, and the mantles, and the wimples, and the crisping pins, the glasses, and the fine linen, and the hoods and the veils.
And it shall come to pass, that instead of sweet smell there shall be stink; and instead of a girdle a rent; and instead of well set hair baldness; and instead of a stomacher a girding of sackcloth; and instead of beauty...
And in that day seven women shall take hold of one man, saying, We will eat our own bread, and wear our own apparel; only let us be called by thy name, to take away our reproach.
Selections from Isaiah 3 and 4
I (the writer of this blog) would challenge each of us women to examine our own hearts and lives, to see in what ways are we stretching forth our necks, seeking attention, eliciting a response from those around us? Are we being led about and motivated by the worldly treasures of beauty and materialism? Are we using the mediums of Facebook and such to proclaim our news to the world, bringing glory to ourselves instead of God, or to complain about someone/something that is disturbing us, just so that we can seek out agreeable comments to validate our frustration? Trust me, I am guilty here as well. Oftentimes, we throw discretion out the window for the sake of getting the attention we have searched to find for so long. We seek affirming comments about ourselves by openly publicizing our beauty, our relationships, our possessions, our successes. We must take heed, for it will all vanish in a moment, at the providential decree of the Lord Almighty, who will not tolerate the disloyalty of our wayward hearts!
As for my people, children are their oppressors, and women rule over them. O my people, they which lead thee cause thee to err, and destroy the way of thy paths. The Lord standeth up to plead, and standeth to judge the people...
Moreover the Lord saith, Because the daughters of Zion are haughty, and walk with stretched forth necks and wanton eyes, walking and mincing as they go, and making tinkling with their feet; Therefore, the Lord will smite with a scab the crown of the head of the daughters of Zion, and the Lord will discover their secret parts.
In that day the Lord will take away the bravery of their tinkling ornaments about their feet, and their cauls, and their round tires like the moon, the chains, and the bracelets, and the mufflers. The bonnets, and the ornaments of the legs, and the headbands, and the tablets, and the earrings, the rings, and nose jewels, the changeable suits of apparel, and the mantles, and the wimples, and the crisping pins, the glasses, and the fine linen, and the hoods and the veils.
And it shall come to pass, that instead of sweet smell there shall be stink; and instead of a girdle a rent; and instead of well set hair baldness; and instead of a stomacher a girding of sackcloth; and instead of beauty...
And in that day seven women shall take hold of one man, saying, We will eat our own bread, and wear our own apparel; only let us be called by thy name, to take away our reproach.
Selections from Isaiah 3 and 4
I (the writer of this blog) would challenge each of us women to examine our own hearts and lives, to see in what ways are we stretching forth our necks, seeking attention, eliciting a response from those around us? Are we being led about and motivated by the worldly treasures of beauty and materialism? Are we using the mediums of Facebook and such to proclaim our news to the world, bringing glory to ourselves instead of God, or to complain about someone/something that is disturbing us, just so that we can seek out agreeable comments to validate our frustration? Trust me, I am guilty here as well. Oftentimes, we throw discretion out the window for the sake of getting the attention we have searched to find for so long. We seek affirming comments about ourselves by openly publicizing our beauty, our relationships, our possessions, our successes. We must take heed, for it will all vanish in a moment, at the providential decree of the Lord Almighty, who will not tolerate the disloyalty of our wayward hearts!
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Encouraging Resources for Women...
Several of my college girls, as well as friends and peers have asked what books I would recommend to women desiring to learn more about biblical womanhood, singleness, marriage and parenting. Because I am working on my graduate school thesis and have been reading non-stop, I thought I would make a list that way it would be a quick reference I could pass along from time to time. Anyway, I am sure there are many I have either not read or not included in this list, so by no means is it exhaustive, but hopefully it might be helpful in some way. I also cannot say that I would 100% agree with every thought presented in each book or site. However, overall, I would say they offer quite reliable and biblically sound materials, and as with anything, should be understood with God-wrought spiritual discernment.
Blogs:
http://girltalkblogs.com
http://solofemininity.blogs.com
http://affolter-mel.blogspot.com (**this is my blog and I include it merely because I often place links and quotes of other helpful resources on it)
Biblical Websites for Women:
http://www.girltalkhome.com/
http://cbmw.org
http://www.womencounselingwomen.com
http://gnpcb.org/sites/total.truth
http://truewomanhood.wordpress.com
http://biblicalwomanhoodonline.com
http://girlsgonewise.com
Modesty:
http://www.therebelution.com/modestysurvey
Biblical & Theological Encouragement:
http://a1m.org – ministry of Steve Camp
http://www.epm.org – Randy Alcorn provides a God-exalting picture of finances
http://boundless.org
http://joshharris.com – ministry of the author of I Kissed Dating Goodbye
Books:
Becoming a Woman Who Pleases God – Lisa Tatlock & Pat Ennis
Biblical Womanhood in the Home – Nancy Leigh DeMoss
Big Truths For Young Hearts – Bruce Ware
By Design – Susan Hunt
Chance to Die, A – Amy Carmichael
Comforts From the Cross – Elyse Fitzpatrick
Counsel From the Cross – Elyse Fitzpatrick
Damsels in Distress – Martha Peace
Depression, A Stubborn Darkness – Ed Welch
Designing a Lifestyle That Pleases God – Lisa Tatlock & Pat Ennis
Did I Kiss Marriage Goodbye? – Carolyn McCulley
Disciplines of a Godly Woman – Barbara Hughes
Divine Design – John MacArthur
Does Christianity Squash Women? – Rebecca Jones
Doing Things Right in Matters of the Heart – John Ensor
Don’t Make Me Count to Three: A Mom’s Look.. – Ginger Plowman
Elizabeth Prentiss: More Love to Thee (a biography) – Sharon James
Evangelical Feminism: A New Path to Liberalism? – Wayne Grudem
Evangelical Feminism and Biblical Truth – Wayne Grudem
Excellent Wife, The – Martha Peace
Faithful Women and Their Extraordinary God – Noel Piper
Female Piety – John Angell James
Feminine Appeal – Carolyn Mahaney
Feminist Mistake, The – Mary Kassian
Fine China is for Single Women Too – Lydia Brownback
Freedom of Power and Forgiveness, The – John MacArthur
Girls Gone Wise in a World Gone Wild – Mary Kassian
Give Me This Mountain – Dr. Helen Roseveare
God, Marriage and Family – Andreas Kostenberger
God’s Design For Women: Biblical Womanhood For Today – Sharon James
Gospel Primer for Christians, A – Milton Vincent
Gospel Powered Parenting – William P. Farley
He Gave Us a Valley – Dr. Helen Roseveare
Helper by Design – Elyse Fitzpatrick
Holding Hands, Holding Hearts – Richard Phillips
Idols of the Heart – Elyse Fitzpatrick
In Trouble and In Joy – Sharon James
Instructing a Child’s Heart – Tedd Tripp
Instruments in the Redeemer’s Hands – Paul David Tripp
Legacy of Biblical Womanhood – Susan Hunt
Let Me Be a Woman – Elisabeth Elliot
Lies Women Believe & Lies Young Women Believe – Nancy Leigh DeMoss
Marriage, Divorce and Remarriage – Jay Adams
One Year Book of Hope, The – Nancy Guthrie
Overcoming Fear, Worry and Anxiety – Elyse Fitzpatrick
Peacemaking Women – Tara Barthel & Judy Dabler
Practicing Hospitality – Pat Ennis & Lisa Tatlock
Precious in God’s Sight – Pat Ennis
Preparing for Marriage God’s Way – Wayne Mack
Radical Womanhood – Carolyn McCulley
Relationships, A Mess Worth Making – Tim Lane and Paul Tripp
Rich Single Life, The – Andrew Farmer
Running Scared: Fear, Worry and the God of Rest – Ed Welch
Shepherding a Child’s Heart – Tedd Tripp
Shopping For Time – Carolyn Mahaney (& daughters)
Solving Marriage Problems – Jay Adams
Stepping Heavenward – Elizabeth Prentiss
Sweet and Bitter Providence, A – John Piper
This Momentary Marriage – John Piper
Total Truth – Nancy Pearcy
Treasuring God in Our Traditions – Noel Piper
True Woman – Susan Hunt
Twelve Extraordinary Women – John MacArthur
War of Words – Paul Tripp
When Sinners Say “I Do” – Dave Harvey
Woman After God’s Own Heart, A – Elizabeth George
Women Helping Women: A Biblical Guide – Elyse Fitzpatrick & Carol Cornish
Women’s Ministry in the Church – J. Ligon Duncan & Susan Hunt
Blogs:
http://girltalkblogs.com
http://solofemininity.blogs.com
http://affolter-mel.blogspot.com (**this is my blog and I include it merely because I often place links and quotes of other helpful resources on it)
Biblical Websites for Women:
http://www.girltalkhome.com/
http://cbmw.org
http://www.womencounselingwomen.com
http://gnpcb.org/sites/total.truth
http://truewomanhood.wordpress.com
http://biblicalwomanhoodonline.com
http://girlsgonewise.com
Modesty:
http://www.therebelution.com/modestysurvey
Biblical & Theological Encouragement:
http://a1m.org – ministry of Steve Camp
http://www.epm.org – Randy Alcorn provides a God-exalting picture of finances
http://boundless.org
http://joshharris.com – ministry of the author of I Kissed Dating Goodbye
Books:
Becoming a Woman Who Pleases God – Lisa Tatlock & Pat Ennis
Biblical Womanhood in the Home – Nancy Leigh DeMoss
Big Truths For Young Hearts – Bruce Ware
By Design – Susan Hunt
Chance to Die, A – Amy Carmichael
Comforts From the Cross – Elyse Fitzpatrick
Counsel From the Cross – Elyse Fitzpatrick
Damsels in Distress – Martha Peace
Depression, A Stubborn Darkness – Ed Welch
Designing a Lifestyle That Pleases God – Lisa Tatlock & Pat Ennis
Did I Kiss Marriage Goodbye? – Carolyn McCulley
Disciplines of a Godly Woman – Barbara Hughes
Divine Design – John MacArthur
Does Christianity Squash Women? – Rebecca Jones
Doing Things Right in Matters of the Heart – John Ensor
Don’t Make Me Count to Three: A Mom’s Look.. – Ginger Plowman
Elizabeth Prentiss: More Love to Thee (a biography) – Sharon James
Evangelical Feminism: A New Path to Liberalism? – Wayne Grudem
Evangelical Feminism and Biblical Truth – Wayne Grudem
Excellent Wife, The – Martha Peace
Faithful Women and Their Extraordinary God – Noel Piper
Female Piety – John Angell James
Feminine Appeal – Carolyn Mahaney
Feminist Mistake, The – Mary Kassian
Fine China is for Single Women Too – Lydia Brownback
Freedom of Power and Forgiveness, The – John MacArthur
Girls Gone Wise in a World Gone Wild – Mary Kassian
Give Me This Mountain – Dr. Helen Roseveare
God, Marriage and Family – Andreas Kostenberger
God’s Design For Women: Biblical Womanhood For Today – Sharon James
Gospel Primer for Christians, A – Milton Vincent
Gospel Powered Parenting – William P. Farley
He Gave Us a Valley – Dr. Helen Roseveare
Helper by Design – Elyse Fitzpatrick
Holding Hands, Holding Hearts – Richard Phillips
Idols of the Heart – Elyse Fitzpatrick
In Trouble and In Joy – Sharon James
Instructing a Child’s Heart – Tedd Tripp
Instruments in the Redeemer’s Hands – Paul David Tripp
Legacy of Biblical Womanhood – Susan Hunt
Let Me Be a Woman – Elisabeth Elliot
Lies Women Believe & Lies Young Women Believe – Nancy Leigh DeMoss
Marriage, Divorce and Remarriage – Jay Adams
One Year Book of Hope, The – Nancy Guthrie
Overcoming Fear, Worry and Anxiety – Elyse Fitzpatrick
Peacemaking Women – Tara Barthel & Judy Dabler
Practicing Hospitality – Pat Ennis & Lisa Tatlock
Precious in God’s Sight – Pat Ennis
Preparing for Marriage God’s Way – Wayne Mack
Radical Womanhood – Carolyn McCulley
Relationships, A Mess Worth Making – Tim Lane and Paul Tripp
Rich Single Life, The – Andrew Farmer
Running Scared: Fear, Worry and the God of Rest – Ed Welch
Shepherding a Child’s Heart – Tedd Tripp
Shopping For Time – Carolyn Mahaney (& daughters)
Solving Marriage Problems – Jay Adams
Stepping Heavenward – Elizabeth Prentiss
Sweet and Bitter Providence, A – John Piper
This Momentary Marriage – John Piper
Total Truth – Nancy Pearcy
Treasuring God in Our Traditions – Noel Piper
True Woman – Susan Hunt
Twelve Extraordinary Women – John MacArthur
War of Words – Paul Tripp
When Sinners Say “I Do” – Dave Harvey
Woman After God’s Own Heart, A – Elizabeth George
Women Helping Women: A Biblical Guide – Elyse Fitzpatrick & Carol Cornish
Women’s Ministry in the Church – J. Ligon Duncan & Susan Hunt
Saturday, April 3, 2010
Christ the Lord is Risen Today...
In a few hours it will be Resurrection Sunday. As I contemplate the meaning of all that is found in Christ's death, burial and resurrection, I think specifically this year what it means to me - as a Christian woman. This past year has been one in which I have come to a deeper love and understanding of my created purpose not just as a human, but as a woman. There is meaning and value in Christ for me as a woman. Sometimes when this topic is discussed, I think people tend to feel like we say things like this merely to make us feel better about being a woman, as if it is so difficult and oppressive. But that is certainly not the intention behind my understanding and study of it, so do not misunderstand me. One of my pastors recently said to me, "What is one of the reasons I get to sit behind this desk?" Now, obviously, not just anyone can be a pastor. It is a life calling, one that must be validated by the Spirit. However, what he was pointing out was that one reason he can sit behind that desk is because he is a man. Scripture teaches that the elder or pastor of the flock is to be a man, not a woman.
So...how does this relate to Easter Sunday? Well, indirectly, it relates in that I celebrate Easter as a woman, praising God for the redemption I have found in Him as my Creator and Savior! I have heard some scholars/writers point out how it was to women that Christ first revealed Himself after His resurrection from the dead, and they even say that this fact should be an encouragement to all women of the value and dignity that Christ chose to bestow on women in doing such a thing. Now, I don't want to take it that far necessarily, because I do think that sometimes we place more meaning on something to the point that it may take away from the central importance, which in this case, is that Christ was raised from the dead! His resurrection is not to be used as an opportunity to validate woman's significance, but to validate the prophecies of God's Word and to bring complete fulfillment to the promises we have in Him. And I rejoice in this reality as a saved woman!
Susan Hunt says, "The true woman is the real thing. The Master has set eternity in her heart and is conforming her to His own image. There is consistency in her outward behavior because it is dictated by the reality of her inner life. That reality is her redemption. The true woman is a reflection of her redemption."
So...how does this relate to Easter Sunday? Well, indirectly, it relates in that I celebrate Easter as a woman, praising God for the redemption I have found in Him as my Creator and Savior! I have heard some scholars/writers point out how it was to women that Christ first revealed Himself after His resurrection from the dead, and they even say that this fact should be an encouragement to all women of the value and dignity that Christ chose to bestow on women in doing such a thing. Now, I don't want to take it that far necessarily, because I do think that sometimes we place more meaning on something to the point that it may take away from the central importance, which in this case, is that Christ was raised from the dead! His resurrection is not to be used as an opportunity to validate woman's significance, but to validate the prophecies of God's Word and to bring complete fulfillment to the promises we have in Him. And I rejoice in this reality as a saved woman!
Susan Hunt says, "The true woman is the real thing. The Master has set eternity in her heart and is conforming her to His own image. There is consistency in her outward behavior because it is dictated by the reality of her inner life. That reality is her redemption. The true woman is a reflection of her redemption."
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