Biblically Speaking - Sacrifices of the Wicked

Part 17 in my study on what is abomination in the sight of God.

Recap:

Many believers have fallen into accepting that which is abomination in the sight of God. Unless we study God's Word to learn His Mind on what is abominable, how will we know to purge ourselves from abomination? Lord willing, I will be posting the fruits of my study on the word "abomination," but feel free to leap ahead of me and study it for yourself. What is an abomination to God?

Sacrifice of Wicked

Proverbs 15:8 - The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to the Lord: but the prayer of the upright is his delight.

Proverbs 21:27 - The sacrifice of the wicked is abomination: how much more, when he bringeth it with a wicked mind?

God will not accept sacrifices by wicked men. As shown in His Word, it is not actions that God desires but a heart condition.

Psalm 51:17 - The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise.

Hosea 6:6 - For I desired mercy, and not sacrifice; and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings.

Artistic Eye | Photography

I never thought of myself artistic when it came to photography. I didn't have that "natural eye"--at least not when I saw others' photographs. I would look at a tree and say, "Okay...so it's a tree..." My brother would look at a tree, take one picture (ONE!) and I would be dumbfounded. It was a piece of art.

Fast forward a few years. I did photography as a hobby, then people actually began to hire me. And one of the things they mentioned? I had a good "eye." (Wait. When did this happen?)

Maybe I did have it naturally, but I just needed to practice, practice, practice.

When I first started photography, using my brother's digital camera, I would snap twenty pictures of the same object, with almost the same angle. Did that really give me much practice? Since I was using auto-focus, no it didn't.

One photographer suggested experimenting with three different angles on a subject (keeping the subject in the same pose). I didn't know this when I was practicing, but on my own, I began narrowing my picture-taking to only 2-3 shots of the same angle. You know what? It made a difference! As I practiced, I learned what worked and what didn't--when to take the picture and when to avoid pressing that button.

Here are a couple of angles from the same subject. Taken in St. Charles, MO, in 2011.

Photographers - What tips have helped your "photography eye?"

Photographers-in-training - What do you plan on practicing this week with photography?

If you have a photography blog, comment with the link below and I'll visit! :)

God's Smuggler | Book Review

Another book I wasn't "required" to read, God's Smuggler has been on my list to read for probably five years. My older sister has had the book for years...and I finally got around to it. Why did I wait so long?!

About the Book
As a boy he dreamed of being a spy undercover behind enemy lines. As a man he found himself undercover for God. Brother Andrew was his name and for decades his life story, recounted in God's Smuggler, has awed and inspired millions. The bestseller tells of the young Dutch factory worker's incredible efforts to transport Bibles across closed borders-and the miraculous ways in which God provided for him every step of the way. Revell and Chosen now reintroduce this powerful story with two new releases: a 35th anniversary edition and The Narrow Road, an expanded youth edition. Both contain a new foreword and afterword. The youth edition also features information about ministry to the persecuted church today, including country profiles, quotes from Christians in underground churches, "what if" scenarios based on real-life threats they face, and stories from others who have participated in Brother Andrew's Bible-smuggling work. Brother Andrew's story remains as inspiring today as it was thirty-five years ago, and with these new releases it will motivate a whole new generation to risk everything to follow God's call.

My Review
Wow! This is an amazing book! There are really no words to describe it other than Brother Andrew simply living in obedience to God. But how encouraging and faith-building it is to follow years of his ministry! Some people think of doing grand things for Christ, but often, Brother Andrew was just THERE...giving hope to the persecuted Christians that there is someone else in the body praying for them. Reading this book will raise your awareness of persecuted Christians and the struggles they face. It is not graphic at all (not even close to "Tortured for Christ"), but shows the seriousness and struggles of believers in closed countries.

A quote that really stood out to me;
"You can't use strong-arm tactics against the Church without strengthening it. It's always been that way. Under persecution a man looks to his faith to see if it's worth fighting for, and this is a scrutiny Christianity can always withstand. The real danger comes with an indirect attack, where a person is lured away from the Church before he has a chance to become strong."

Buy on Amazon: God's Smuggler

Now on Amazon

Guess what you can now pre-order for your Kindle? That's right! "Journey to Love" is gracing Amazon's shelves! Pre-order it for less than a dollar!

Amazon Link: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B01BZ7S3PK

Word Wednesday #95

And it came to pass at the end of two full years, that Pharaoh dreamed: and, behold, he stood by the river...Then Pharaoh sent and called Joseph, and they brought him hastily out of the dungeon: and he shaved himself, and changed his raiment, and came in unto Pharaoh. 

Genesis 41:1, 14

Those two silent years. In them, Joseph stayed faithful to God--while waiting, never knowing if he would be released from prison. Am I faithful to God while waiting? Am I faithful despite my circumstances?

~*~*~

Share a verse that God has given you today or copy the button if you'd like to join in Word Wednesdays with your blog! Did you post on your blog? I'd love to see -- share your link in a comment!

 

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Verses on Love | Journey to Love

Two important verses featured in "Journey to Love:"

What are some important verses about love to which you cling?

I Surrender All | Music Video

It's been a very long time, but here's a new piano solo on YouTube!! This is from a small CD I recorded when I was sixteen (with the help of Daniel Tero). Enjoy - and share!

Biblically Speaking - These Seven Things: Sowing Discord

Part 16 in my study on what is abomination in the sight of God.

Recap:

Many believers have fallen into accepting that which is abomination in the sight of God. Unless we study God's Word to learn His Mind on what is abominable, how will we know to purge ourselves from abomination? Lord willing, I will be posting the fruits of my study on the word "abomination," but feel free to leap ahead of me and study it for yourself. What is an abomination to God?

These Seven Things

Proverbs 6:16-19 - These six things doth the Lord hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him: A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief, A false witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among brethren.

If ever there was a clear list given in God's Word for abominations in His eyes, Proverbs 6:16-19 holds the key. It is distinct and unarguable. Above that, sadly, this list can be found in many believers' lives.

- One Sowing Discord

"Discord - OT: 4090 medan, discord, strife"

The other use of this Hebrew word is Proverbs 10:12, Hatred stirreth up strifes: but love covereth all sins.

Having been a pastor's daughter, I have seen examples of this last "of the seven abominations" in the church more than the others. Church members are relatively truthful, strive for humility, keep their feet from the paths of evil and their minds from wicked imaginations...but when something goes awry they are the first to sow discord in the church. God doesn't just recommend it "doesn't happen." He finds it utterly distasteful. He knows the harm that it creates in His body for one member to be "warring against" another, and He hates it. Am I taking part in this abomination?

Orphan Train Rider | Book Review

This week, I didn't have any books I had to review...and actually, I haven't finished a book since two Saturdays ago (perhaps I've been a bit busy). I'm stuck on an orphan train research book. While it has a lot of facts, that's just what it has: facts (that are a little dry to swallow a lot at a time). But! Here's an orphan train book that I recently read and really enjoyed--I give it five stars.

My Thoughts
So much information is packed into this short book. Warren paints a very detailed picture of the situations and circumstances different orphans faced. Warren follows the true story of one orphan, Lee, and adds historical references. I thought the book was very well-rounded. Though I've researched the orphan train saga, I learned a lot from these 72 pages. 

I would say that this is acceptable for all readers. There is one sentence that states that some orphans were physically and sexually abused, but other than that, I didn't notice anything unacceptable. Some younger readers may not like the very real, dismal picture painted of the hopelessness of orphans in that time period.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this and found it helpful for research.

About the Book
Between 1854 and 1930, more than 200,000 orphaned or abandoned children were sent west on orphan trains to find new homes. Some were adopted by loving families; others were not as fortunate. In recent years, some of the riders have begun to share their stories. Andrea Warren alternates chapters about the history of the orphan trains with the story of Lee Nailling, who in 1926 rode an orphan train to Texas when he was nine years old.

Celeste and Pastor Owens | Journey to Love

Get to know two more important characters from "Journey to Love" - Celeste and Pastor Owens.

Celeste Thornton
Mary's younger sister, Celeste, is cheery, chatty, and totally little girlish. She reaches out to Marie even though Marie never encourages the friendship.

Pastor Owens
Solid in the Bible, Pastor Owens is the faithful pastor of the church that Mr. and Mrs. Bowles attends. However, his words make Marie feel uncomfortable.

Word Wednesday #94

And he said, Lay not thine hand upon the lad, neither do thou any thing unto him: for now I know that thou fearest God, seeing thou hast not withheld thy son, thine only son from me. 

Genesis 22:12

Abraham loved God enough to obey Him...above his only son. Yet how often do I struggle to obey God when it means sacrificing my dreams and projects for just a short time? Abraham obeyed, unable to see the future. Yet I like to balance the pros and cons before maybe, possibly, obeying. Oh Lord, help me to have a heart more dedicated to following You!!

~*~*~

Share a verse that God has given you today or copy the button if you'd like to join in Word Wednesdays with your blog! Did you post on your blog? I'd love to see -- share your link in a comment!

 

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Mr. and Mrs. Bowles | Journey to Love

Get to know some characters in "Journey to Love." Today, meet Mr. and Mrs. Bowles.

Mr. Bowles
An older, gentle farmer, there is a special connection between Marie and Mr. Bowles. Maybe it has something to do with the fact that neither of the talk much.

Mrs. Bowles
What Mr. Bowles lacked in words, Mrs. Bowles made up for double--or triple. She seems inclined to keep up a steady monologue whenever she's around.

Come back on Thursday to meet Celeste and Pastor Owens.

Biblically Speaking - These Seven Things: Feet Running to Mischief

Part 15 in my study on what is abomination in the sight of God.

Recap:

Many believers have fallen into accepting that which is abomination in the sight of God. Unless we study God's Word to learn His Mind on what is abominable, how will we know to purge ourselves from abomination? Lord willing, I will be posting the fruits of my study on the word "abomination," but feel free to leap ahead of me and study it for yourself. What is an abomination to God?

These Seven Things

Proverbs 6:16-19 - These six things doth the Lord hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him: A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief, A false witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among brethren.

If ever there was a clear list given in God's Word for abominations in His eyes, Proverbs 6:16-19 holds the key. It is distinct and unarguable. Above that, sadly, this list can be found in many believers' lives.

 - Feet Swift in Running to Mischief

"Mischief - OT:7451 ra` (rah); from OT:7489; bad or (as noun) evil (natural or moral):"

Am I quick to jump on the bandwagon of mischief? Do I find myself following after those whose actions are not "necessarily good?" God does not have a "gray area." Either it is evil or it is good. Psalm 37:27 commands, Depart from evil, and do good; and dwell for evermore. When was the last time I stopped to consider my ways--if they are (in God's eyes) evil or good?

An example of a man who lived uprightly in this area is Job:

Job 1:1 - There was a man in the land of Uz, whose name was Job; and that man was perfect and upright, and one that feared God, and eschewed evil.

To "eschew" means to "turn off." Not only did Job refuse to run to evil, he went the opposite way. A concept repeated in 1 Peter 3:11, Let him eschew evil, and do good; let him seek peace, and ensue it.

Journey to Love ~ Cover Reveal and Blog Tour Sign-Up

Finally, after much work, "Journey to Love's" cover is completed! I guess I learned something new--just like one can have writer's block, they can also have graphics designer's block. ;) So thankful for the help and advice of Sarah Johnson in bringing this cover to "good enough" to "great!"

So...*drumroll*...

Also, I'm having a blog tour for "Journey to Love" on  March 14-26, 2016, and you're invited to join me! Are you interested in joining? If you have a blog or are on Amazon or Goodreads, you may sign up over HERE--and get a free e-copy of "Journey to Love!" Do you have a friend you think may be interested? Send them to this post and they can sign up!

About "Journey to Love:"

Now orphaned, Marie is swept miles away from the only life she knew to be sheltered by unknown guardians. Caught in the challenges of a new life, she cannot prevent changes from happening, but she can keep the Bowles and their friends at arm's length. Or can she?

While things appear to transition smoothly on the outside, Marie struggles against the turmoil she faces on the inside. She sees something in the Bowles and her new friends that she had never experienced before...but should she trust what the preacher is teaching when it goes against everything she had accepted as truth? Is God really a God of love? If He is, then is Marie willing to accept it?

Follow Marie as she begins the journey to love.

Undaunted Hope | Book Review

After reading about 1/4 of the book, I decided not to finish it. I am not a big romance fan, and from chapter one, Tessa was engrossed with Alex's rippling muscles and drowning in his cobalt blue eyes. Just mentioning that doesn't quite bother me, but when it goes on and on, chapter after chapter, her clearly lusting after this man, it just was too much (one quote that is very mild, "He was a beautiful specimen of manhood. She honestly had no desire to take her eyes off of him, even though she knew she was ogling inappropriately in front of the children.").

I thought about finishing the book and skimming the parts between her and Alex...but then Alex's brother Michael came onto the scene. And I just don't like love triangles. So, while I would have enjoyed the school situation, discover what Mr. Updegraff would say when Tessa started an adult school without his knowledge, I just could not in good conscience finish it.

So, while people who enjoy "swoon worthy" material may enjoy it, those who are trying to monitor the amount of romance they read will probably want to avoid this book.

*I received this book from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review*

Marie and Mary | Journey to Love

Get to know some characters in "Journey to Love!" Today, meet Marie and Mary.

Marie Dixon

The main character of "Journey to Love," Marie is recently orphaned and whisked away from the only life that she has ever known. She has created a shell around her heart and refuses to make Creston her new home. Will this shell ever be broken?

Mary Thornton
When Marie first saw Mary, she was strangely drawn to her, and thought of her as a friend...but her dreams for this friend soon come crashing down when there is a barrier Marie does not want to cross.

Come back on Tuesday to meet Mr. and Mrs. Bowles--the couple who took Marie in.

Word Wednesday #93

Haste thee, escape thither; for I cannot do any thing till thou be come thither. Therefore the name of the city was called Zoar. 

Genesis 19:22

Man prevented God from working--not because God is powerless, but because He is merciful.

But still...is my disobedience hindering God from what He wants to do in my life?

~*~*~

Share a verse that God has given you today or copy the button if you'd like to join in Word Wednesdays with your blog! Did you post on your blog? I'd love to see -- share your link in a comment!

 

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Coming Soon: "Journey to Love"

Yes, if you've been following my blog for the last year, you've seen me mention "Journey to Love" before (here and here). Well, the exciting time is coming when "Journey to Love" will be available to the public! 

It has indeed been a journey! And, as I like "behind-the-scenes," I'm going to give you some!

~The original idea came in September 2014. I first thought that Marie would be sent to her mother's French friend in Louisiana. However, in Spring 2015, the Lord gave me the idea of creating an orphan train novella series. With a little adaptation, Marie's story fit in perfectly. 

~The original titles for "Journey to Love" were Echoes of Mercy, Quest for Truth, and Journey to Love (as you can see, "Journey to Love" stuck)

~There was one quote in my original idea that just didn't fit into the new story. I kinda wish I could have put it somewhere, but hey--I can just share it here! 

For a moment, Marie just wanted to throw her arms around Madame - just like she had always wanted to do so to Mama. But she held back. No; she would say nothing. It was an inward battle she had to fight; she could handle it on her own.

~I started writing this version of "Journey to Love" on March 17, 2015. It will be almost exactly a year later that it is released. I sure thought that a novella wouldn't take a year...but so it has! Continue reading to get a glimpse why.

~"Journey to Love" was written while I was helping my family building our house. Yep, I got many ideas while cutting wood or painting. ;)

~I thought that I had finished "Journey to Love" in July 2015. At that time, I emailed a couple of friends, saying, "I'm thinking that this really ought to be 'Journey to Truth' or 'Journey to Freedom!'" The next day, I visited my sister's church. Their Sunday school hour was on 1 John. During that lesson, I felt God impress in my heart, "No, Amanda, this novella WILL be 'Journey to Love.'" I went home and rewrote the ending.

~Again, I had thought that "Journey to Love" was finished by November 2015, but no. After one beta-reader's feedback and a phone conversation with a friend, I prayed about expanding the story. It went from 15 chapters (and 17,912 words) to 20 chapters (and 25,000+ words). I am so, so, so thankful for the friends who were kind in suggesting some pretty in-depth changes. "Journey to Love" would not be what it is today without their suggestions!

~The cover also went through a pretty drastic change...but, you're going to have to wait to see the full cover, as I've not yet taken pictures of my "Marie." But, here's a sneak-peak of what I'm pretty sure won't be changing:

Stay tuned...because in the next few weeks I'm going to be giving you a lot of glimpses into this novella!

Are any of you working on a big project?

Has God allowed a certain project to take longer than you anticipated? What lessons did you learn from it?

Biblically Speaking - These Seven Things: A Heart of Wicked Imagination

Part 14 in my study on what is abomination in the sight of God.

Recap:

Many believers have fallen into accepting that which is abomination in the sight of God. Unless we study God's Word to learn His Mind on what is abominable, how will we know to purge ourselves from abomination? Lord willing, I will be posting the fruits of my study on the word "abomination," but feel free to leap ahead of me and study it for yourself. What is an abomination to God?

These Seven Things

Proverbs 6:16-19 - These six things doth the Lord hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him: A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief, A false witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among brethren.

If ever there was a clear list given in God's Word for abominations in His eyes, Proverbs 6:16-19 holds the key. It is distinct and unarguable. Above that, sadly, this list can be found in many believers' lives.

- A Heart of Wicked Imaginations

"Deviseth - OT:2790 charash (khaw-rash'); a primitive root; to scratch, i.e. (by implication) to engrave, plough; hence (from the use of tools) to fabricate (of any material); figuratively, to devise (in a bad sense); hence (from the idea of secrecy) to be silent, to let alone; hence (by implication) to be deaf (as an accompaniment of dumbness):"

"Wicked - OT:205 'aven (aw-ven'); from an unused root perhaps meaning properly, to pant (hence, to exert oneself, usually in vain; to come to naught); strictly nothingness; also trouble. vanity, wickedness; specifically an idol:"

"Imaginations - OT:4284  machashabah (makh-ash-aw-baw'); or machashebeth (makh-ash-eh'-beth); from OT:2803; a contrivance, i.e. (concretely) a texture, machine, or (abstractly) intention, plan (whether bad, a plot; or good, advice):"

Psalm 94:11 reminds us, The Lord knoweth the thoughts of man, that they are vanity. God finds abominable not just the man who enacts on his wicked thoughts, but the man who thinks wicked thoughts. Many times, it is easy to justify self because "I didn't do anything about it -- just thought it." However, if the thought can be categorized as "wicked imaginations," it is abomination in God's eyes.

Proverbs 15:26 - The thoughts of the wicked are an abomination to the Lord: but the words of the pure are pleasant words.

The believer who is struggling in this area would do well to consider Proverbs 16:3 - Commit thy works unto the Lord, and thy thoughts shall be established.

Susannah, Don't You Cry | Book Review and Giveaway!

By Zachary McIntire

About the Book
"I'll never forgive him - never!"

Chuck Kincaid made a vow of hate the day his father walked out, and he still keeps it ten years later. His sister’s bad choices, his mother’s drug addiction - he knows who to blame for all of it.

But when Susanna and Kelly get their lives turned around by Jesus, Chuck doesn’t know what to think. And why is the rich stranger with the scarred face so interested in being his benefactor?

Failure and restoration. Hate and forgiveness. What is broken can be put back together, one small piece at a time.

(This book is recommended for ages 12 and up due to themes such as divorce and drug addiction.)

My Review

"...they had been like three strangers living in the same house, each engrossed in their own bitterness, fears, and heartaches."

Starting with Ross' decision to leave his home, "Susanna, Don't You Cry" follows the life of all four family members affected: dad, mom, brother, and sister.

Most of the plot was predictable once chapter three rolled around, and it was one of those reads that didn't shower me with uncomfortable situations. Rather, it follows the journey of this family as they are introduced to Christ--and their choices as to whether to accept or reject Him.

It was very fast-paced without a dull moment. I personally enjoyed reading about Ross' life best, but every time the camera panned to another character, I found myself eager to hear the progression of their life. At the same time, I found the characters a little hard to engage with--their emotions didn't quite feel real and things sometimes felt stated rather than shown. But I enjoyed the read and appreciate the strong, Christian message (though, now that I'm thinking about it, I can't recall much Scripture used...pet peeve).

Younger readers probably shouldn't read this book. Though no immoral scenes are portrayed, some of the characters are involved in drugs and suicidal thoughts. However, I found this to be more "mentioned in passing" rather than diving into the sins they were committing (which I appreciate).

Some favorite quotes:

“The goodness of God.” Ross repeated the phrase flatly. “Is that what you call this rat race?” 

“No,” Jacob mused, leaning on his mop handle. “I think that’s called ‘life.’ But God’s goodness is what makes the rat race bearable. Everywhere I look, I see it.”

"Every problem is an opportunity: it’s a chance to trust God through it, and let Him be glorified."

*I received this book in exchange of my honest review*

About the Author

Zachary McIntire is a homeschool graduate, entrepreneur, and history lover. He lives in the Missouri Ozarks, where, in between business and ministry activities, he occasionally finds time to write.

Giveaway

Word Wednesday #92

But unto you that fear my name shall the Sun of righteousness arise with healing in his wings; and ye shall go forth, and grow up as calves of the stall. 
Malachi 4:2

Our duty: to be faithful to fear
The promise: Christ will heal and bless
We are just to be faithful to God and obey Him.

~*~*~

Share a verse that God has given you today or copy the button if you'd like to join in Word Wednesdays with your blog! Did you post on your blog? I'd love to see -- share your link in a comment!

 

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Biblically Speaking - These Seven Things: Hands That Shed Innocent Blood

Part 13 in my study on what is abomination in the sight of God.

Recap:

Many believers have fallen into accepting that which is abomination in the sight of God. Unless we study God's Word to learn His Mind on what is abominable, how will we know to purge ourselves from abomination? Lord willing, I will be posting the fruits of my study on the word "abomination," but feel free to leap ahead of me and study it for yourself. What is an abomination to God?

These Seven Things

Proverbs 6:16-19 - These six things doth the Lord hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him: A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief, A false witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among brethren.

If ever there was a clear list given in God's Word for abominations in His eyes, Proverbs 6:16-19 holds the key. It is distinct and unarguable. Above that, sadly, this list can be found in many believers' lives.

- Hands that Shed Innocent Blood

This is what the Bible says it is, and no clearer definition is given by the Hebrew translation. Many minds, I imagine, go to "those days" when men would fight against men, killing them for no reason. And we do see this today. The Holocaust is an example. Serial killers is an example. But what about abortion? Every time a baby is aborted, their innocent blood is shed. God will not hold this guiltless.

Psalm 10:8 - He sitteth in the lurking places of the villages: in the secret places doth he murder the innocent: his eyes are privily set against the poor.