tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22473622578756908132024-03-13T09:27:06.301-04:00A Quiet StrengthKalynBrookehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13691277645295731689noreply@blogger.comBlogger219125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2247362257875690813.post-4957829176895821702011-07-22T03:00:00.002-04:002011-07-22T03:00:10.902-04:00It's Finally Here!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-z_sC9EKesn8/Th3jbsuAVpI/AAAAAAAAAnU/rvUUFEFq7Dg/s1600/IMG_8235.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-z_sC9EKesn8/Th3jbsuAVpI/AAAAAAAAAnU/rvUUFEFq7Dg/s400/IMG_8235.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
You know how I mentioned changes were coming? Well, my new site, <a href="http://www.thefeminineintellect.com/">The Feminine Intellect</a> is now live! I am so so so excited and cannot wait to share this dream with you. <br />
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Like I said before, when I started this blog, I had no idea what I was doing. I posted a recipe one week, and a thought provoking article the next, and was confusing myself, not to mention my handful of readers. Now, I am pursuing a more strategic direction and hope you will join me on this journey!<br />
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Here is what you can expect:<br />
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75% of the content found here, will be transferred over to The Feminine Intellect. However, I am narrowing the broadness of my categories and honing in on a few select topics. The main idea of this site will focus on helping you become:<br />
<ul><li><b>Biblically Grounded </b></li>
<li><b>Culturally Connected </b> and </li>
<li><b>Politically Savvy</b></li>
</ul>I have a passion to help women influence their church and culture, and I sincerely pray The Feminine Intellect will assist you!<br />
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That being said, I am discontinuing my date idea series for the rest of the summer. It was a lot of fun, but feel I need to shift my focus if I am going to stay on track and not stray away from the purpose of the new website.<br />
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Feel free to look around, familiarize yourself with the layout, and maybe read some posts you have never read before. You will have to resubscribe if you want to receive new posts, either by RSS feed burner or by email. I also have a new Facebook page, so you can get free updates of articles I find interesting, current news events, and other thoughts relating to The Feminine Intellect. You can read the site's full About page <a href="http://www.thefeminineintellect.com/about/">here</a>. <br />
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We may still have some kinks to work out, and not <i>every</i> post has been transferred, so please be patient on that end.<br />
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<b>I look forward to connecting with you!</b>KalynBrookehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13691277645295731689noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2247362257875690813.post-7909662562414088472011-07-20T03:00:00.007-04:002011-07-20T03:00:11.394-04:00Pray For Every Nation: Central African Republic and Chad<i>This series is based on the <a href="http://aquietstrength.blogspot.com/2011/01/radical-christian-yes-please.html">Radical</a> Experiment by David Platt. You can find more information about my decision to join <a href="http://aquietstrength.blogspot.com/2011/02/radical-experiment-pray-for-every.html">here</a>. If you would like to participate, please let me know with a comment or email and feel free to grab the button on my sidebar. I hope this journey will enrich your prayer life as much as it does mine!</i><br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.operationworld.org/files/ow/maps/lgmap/chad-MMAP-md.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://www.operationworld.org/files/ow/maps/lgmap/chad-MMAP-md.png" width="210" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.operationworld.org/country/chad/owtext.html">(Photo Source)</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.operationworld.org/files/ow/maps/lgmap/cent-MMAP-md.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://www.operationworld.org/files/ow/maps/lgmap/cent-MMAP-md.png" width="210" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.operationworld.org/cent">(Photo Source)</a></td></tr>
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<div data-mce-style="text-align: left;" style="text-align: left;">These two countries are located on the continent of Africa. Here are a few of their most important needs:<em> </em></div><ul><li data-mce-style="text-align: left;" style="text-align: left;">Peace - in their villages and in their hearts.</li>
<li data-mce-style="text-align: left;" style="text-align: left;">A stabilized economy so their citizens can live a better life.</li>
<li data-mce-style="text-align: left;" style="text-align: left;">Healing- from AIDS and malnourishment.</li>
<li data-mce-style="text-align: left;" style="text-align: left;">Clean drinking water, and the <a data-mce-href="http://aquietstrength.blogspot.com/2011/05/pray-for-every-nation-bolivia.html" href="http://aquietstrength.blogspot.com/2011/05/pray-for-every-nation-bolivia.html">true Living Water</a>.</li>
</ul><br />
<b>Please keep the Central African Republic and Chad in your prayers today. </b>KalynBrookehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13691277645295731689noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2247362257875690813.post-13679536808517428642011-07-18T03:00:00.000-04:002011-07-18T03:00:03.709-04:008 Lies the Media Wants You to Believe About Your Marriage<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lisa_at_home/4914702361/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="Rings by lisahumes, on Flickr"><img alt="Rings" height="266" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4082/4914702361_b82e90e563.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image by lisahumes</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Romantic comedies play out on screen, portraying a love/hate relationship with a ton of laughs and major "awww....." moments at the end. Dramatic love triangles have you rooting for the sexy bad guy, who also happens to be a vampire. And while <a href="http://aquietstrength.blogspot.com/2011/06/why-i-dont-feel-guilty-reading-fiction.html">I love to read fiction</a>, there is often an attitude of discontentment when the male protagonist seems more romantic than our own husbands.<br />
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<b>Media really screws up our views on dating and marriage. </b><br />
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Here are 8 different lies they want you to believe will bring you a lifetime of love and romance, but instead, you end up disappointed, bitter, and doling out a big ol' green dose of envy. <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>1. </b><b> Romance dies after you say "I do". </b></span><br />
Not true. <a href="http://aquietstrength.blogspot.com/2011/04/routine-maintenance-is-not-just-for.html">You just have to work harder for it.</a> Write post-its to put in your husband's lunch, schedule date nights, and talk about your dreams for the future. Sincerely place your husband's needs before you own, and you will benefit too!<b> </b><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>2. You have to look like a supermodel for your husband to be physically attracted to you.</b></span><br />
The T.V. screams size 0 and exotic looks, but do we really want to succumb to that kind of pressure? Your husband married you for <i>you</i> - <i>your</i> looks, <i>your</i> personality, <i>your</i> heart. Don't compare yourself to the Photoshopped images in the Victoria's Secret catalog. (This is the one I struggle with the most!)<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>3. Your husband should sport a ripped six-pack for you to be physically attracted to him.</b></span><br />
Action heroes might have you wondering whether or not they actually own a shirt, but the reality is they trained months for that role. In the average household, we don't always have the time to visit the gym or the money to hire a personal trainer. Help your family eat healthy, exercise in moderation, and love your husband for <i>who </i>he really is. <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>4. </b><b>Sarcasm works.</b></span><br />
In reality, when a girl continually slams a guy, it doesn't entice him to fall in love with her. In fact, he's probably going to run the opposite direction. It might have worked in <i>Sweet Home Alabama</i>, but it won't succeed in this household.<b> </b><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>5. </b><b>The guy always chases after you when you drive off in a fit of tears and rage.</b></span><br />
Nope. He will let you have your tantrum and wait for you to return so you can then proceed with an adult discussion. <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>6. </b><b>Sex is a home run <i>every single time.</i></b></span><br />
I debated whether or not to post this one, but I think there are times when, as women, we really need to be vulnerable and honest with each other. If you enter into marriage thinking sex will unfold like a passionate movie scene, you will be sorely disappointed when it's not. Sex is different for every couple and you can't compare your experience to a scripted performance.<b> </b><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>7. </b><b>Affairs are glamorous. </b></span><br />
Your soul mate is the one you married, so don't go looking for another one.<b> </b><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>8. Divorce is an easy option.</b></span><br />
According to Hollywood, divorce is as easy as returning a pair of Louboutins, but it's an even bigger deal to God. Your marriage may warrant a divorce, especially <a href="http://aquietstrength.blogspot.com/2011/06/are-wives-helpless-against-infidelity.html">if there is cheating</a> or abuse, but it's still not that simple. It's not meant to be, because God created marriage to be permanent.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><u><b>Your Turn:</b></u></span><br />
Which lie do you have the hardest time negating?<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://womenlivingwell.org/category/media-mondays/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img src="http://womenlivingwell.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/Media-Mondays-150px.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>This post is linked to Media Mondays at Women Living Well.</i></div>KalynBrookehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13691277645295731689noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2247362257875690813.post-18529095841878502742011-07-15T03:00:00.002-04:002011-07-15T03:00:14.487-04:00Links for Your Weekend<i>I have come across a few articles this week too good not to share. Browse through the posts at your leisure and enjoy some new reading material for your weekend!</i><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--KCoX6SQzyg/Th8xkjGVveI/AAAAAAAAAnc/Idh0VETqnp4/s1600/Weekend+Link+photos.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="285" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--KCoX6SQzyg/Th8xkjGVveI/AAAAAAAAAnc/Idh0VETqnp4/s400/Weekend+Link+photos.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<b>1.</b> <a href="http://blog.christianitytoday.com/women/2011/07/why_we_dont_use_natural_family.html">Why We Don't Use Natural Family Planning</a> by Her.meneutics<br />
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- <i>A balanced approach on the use of contraceptives.</i><br />
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<b>2.</b> <a href="http://www.thinkchristian.net/index.php/2011/07/13/why-did-god-create-mosquitoes/">Why Did God Create Mosquitoes?</a> by Think Christian <br />
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<i>- Were mosquitoes part of the fall of man?</i><br />
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<b>3.</b> <a href="http://www.thefrugalgirl.com/2011/07/staying-up-in-a-down-economy/#comment-103928">Staying Up in a Down Economy</a> by The Frugal Girl<br />
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<i>- To read or not to read the news.......that is the question.</i><br />
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<b>4.</b> <a href="http://womenlivingwell.org/2011/07/ipad-ipod-iphone-or-the-great-i-am/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+WomenLivingWell+%28Women+Living+Well+%29&utm_content=Google+Reader">iPad, iPod, iPhone, or the Great I AM?</a> by Women Living Well<br />
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<i>- Is it time to readjust your media usage?</i><br />
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<b>An update on The Feminine Intellect:</b><br />
We were really hoping to go live by today, but technology doesn't always cooperate. So, even though we are a little behind schedule, we are planning a new launch date on Friday, July 22nd! Can't wait!KalynBrookehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13691277645295731689noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2247362257875690813.post-33868566690644293032011-07-13T03:00:00.000-04:002011-07-13T03:00:07.969-04:00Pray for Every Nation: Cape Verde and the Cayman Islands<i>This series is based on the <a href="http://aquietstrength.blogspot.com/2011/01/radical-christian-yes-please.html">Radical</a> Experiment by David Platt. You can find more information about my decision to join <a href="http://aquietstrength.blogspot.com/2011/02/radical-experiment-pray-for-every.html">here</a>. If you would like to participate, please let me know with a comment or email and feel free to grab the button on my sidebar. I hope this journey will enrich your prayer life as much as it does mine!</i><br />
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The two sets of islands we are praying for today are quite different from one another concerning their beliefs in Christianity.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.operationworld.org/files/ow/maps/lgmap/cape-MMAP-md.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://www.operationworld.org/files/ow/maps/lgmap/cape-MMAP-md.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.operationworld.org/cape">(Photo Source)</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;">Cape Verde consists of fifteen separate islands off the coast of west Africa. Poverty runs rampant due to a poorly developed economy and government. Most of the population are Catholic, but many are still influenced by various superstitions and tribal magic. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Although the official language is Portuguese, the majority of islanders speak Creole, which is a difficult language to find in Christian literature.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Here are a few prayers requests for Cape Verde:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><ul><li><b>Relief will come to the impoverished islanders, whether through outside sources or internal Christians.</b></li>
<li><b>Ministers of the gospel will break the people of their superstitious tribalism and give them the only source of truth.</b></li>
<li><b>Literature would be translated into a language they can understand.</b></li>
</ul><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.operationworld.org/files/ow/maps/lgmap/caym-MMAP-md.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://www.operationworld.org/files/ow/maps/lgmap/caym-MMAP-md.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.operationworld.org/country/caym/owtext.html">(Photo Source)</a></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</tbody></table>Three islands, south of Cuba, make up what is called the Cayman Islands, or Caymans. Instead of extreme poverty, the Cayman culture is materialistic, due to tourism and many off-shore bank accounts opened on the islands.<br />
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But amid this influence on society, many evangelical churches are still rising in popularity. The country's flag even boasts part of Psalm 24, recognizing the strong Christian heritage of the Caymans.<b><br />
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<b>Praise the Lord for a continued interest in the gospel</b><b>! </b></div>KalynBrookehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13691277645295731689noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2247362257875690813.post-1876225940502494092011-07-11T03:00:00.002-04:002011-07-11T10:08:27.144-04:00The Secret to Sucessful Media Invasion<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/smemon/5209796269/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="social media by Sean MacEntee, on Flickr"><img alt="social media" height="167" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4147/5209796269_23b3c744ca.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/smemon/">Sean MacEntee</a></td></tr>
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Guilt floods my mind as I click the little "x" in the top-right corner of Facebook. I sheepishly slip my smart phone back into my pocket after checking it for the thirtieth time that day - <i>Nope, no new emails.</i> My head aches as the television finally goes dark after a two hour reality binge.<br />
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I often feel regret for spending so much of my time involved in front of a brightly lit screen, but media does not always <i>have</i> to affect us so negatively. <b>If we play it smart, media has the power to improve our daily living, bring us closer to family and friends, and challenge our walk with God.</b><br />
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I want to discuss the positives to three specific media outlets you encounter on a daily basis. I will also mention a few negatives, but that is not my main focus for this post. Today, I want you to view media as a potential tool to utilize in a God-honoring manner, not necessarily as<a href="http://aquietstrength.blogspot.com/2011/03/6-essential-time-traps-guaranteed-to.html"> a total time waster</a>. <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>1. Movies and Television</b></span><br />
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Reality TV, sitcoms, and fictional on-screen romances have the ability to confuse Christians with what is considered the "societal norm". Living together as an unmarried couple seems okay when two people really love each other and gays are widely accepted as the popular girl's best friend. Media's powerful influence either forces you to disregard God's commandments on sexual immorality and various other sins, or<b> it strengthens your beliefs and can fuel excellent discussions.</b><br />
<ul><li><i>The Adjustment Bureau </i>became great dinner conversation when the movie tackled a perspective of predestination. It even inspired my husband to <a href="http://aquietstrength.blogspot.com/2011/06/are-we-pawns-or-players-biblical-look.html">write a post</a> on this blog! </li>
<li>A recent commercial mocking marriage reminded us how society views our commitment and encouraged us to reverse the status quo. </li>
<li>The Casey Anthony trial finally forced me to develop <a href="http://aquietstrength.blogspot.com/2011/07/death-penalty-revealed-truth-about-law.html">my own view</a> on the death penalty. </li>
</ul><span style="font-size: large;"><b>2. Internet/Social Media</b></span><br />
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I have a hard time remembering life before the internet age. It has connected me with family in ways beyond the typical holiday gathering and opened the communication lines with friends from high school and college. But most of all, the World Wide Web has given you and I immediate access to powerful sources of information. <br />
<ul><li>Instead of a trip to the library, we can download a book in the matter of seconds. </li>
<li>Instead of traveling to a conference across the country, we can watch speakers through live web-casts or download Mark Driscoll's latest sermon on our ipods. </li>
<li>We can uplift and encourage fellow Christians through facebook comments or blog discussions. </li>
<li>We can "follow" and interact with pastoral role models and favorite authors on Twitter.</li>
</ul>Although temptations to abuse this technology are numerous, <b>we still have a unique ability to spiritually influence each other.</b><b></b><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>3. Reading Material</b></span><br />
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Book, Magazines, Blogs, and Newspapers - they transport you to far away places, enhance your relationship with God, and engage your mind. It's no secret, <a href="http://aquietstrength.blogspot.com/search/label/Book%20Reviews">I love to read</a>, sometimes even a little too much. But when books take away your need for the Bible, it's time to reevaluate what role the most important Book plays in your life. <b>As long as you understand no author can ever replace <i>the</i></b> <b>Author, you have a vast amount of resources available to you for reference. </b><br />
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Whether you enjoy Al Mohler, John MacArthur, Elizabeth George, or Beth Moore, each perspective will vary from one to the other. This widens the information pool immensely and benefits you, the reader! .<br />
<ul><li>You can explore the character of Christ in a new way.</li>
<li>You can learn how to develop Godly virtues. </li>
<li>You can read and be encouraged from the unwavering faith of another Christian. </li>
<li>You can understand how your faith connects to the world around you.</li>
</ul>The written word abounds on any topic imaginable, so don't be afraid to check out what your preferred author, or even a new one, has discovered!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k6VAM_VroQw/ThZwEAck9XI/AAAAAAAAAnM/7IWVtqwhewQ/s1600/IMG_8260.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k6VAM_VroQw/ThZwEAck9XI/AAAAAAAAAnM/7IWVtqwhewQ/s400/IMG_8260.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
In reality, all you need to strengthen your Christian walk is a Bible, maybe a notebook and pen, and a willing heart. All of the above mentioned media outlets have the capability to either help you accomplish this goal, or destroy it. <b>Let's limit the negative effects media has on us, avoid abusing technology, and work on utilizing these resources to enhance our faith! </b><br />
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<b><u>Your Turn:</u></b><br />
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I deliberately left out the topic of music, because I want you to respond! <b>How can <i>music </i>positively affect your walk with God?</b><br />
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<center><a href="http://womenlivingwell.org/category/media-mondays/" target="_blank"><img src="http://womenlivingwell.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/Media-Mondays-150px.jpg" /></a></center><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i>This post is linked up to Media Mondays at <a href="http://womenlivingwell.org/">Women Living Well </a></i></div>KalynBrookehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13691277645295731689noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2247362257875690813.post-60810778762194644822011-07-08T03:00:00.008-04:002011-07-08T03:00:05.723-04:00Death Penalty Revealed: The Truth About Law and Grace {Part 2}<i>The recent Casey Anthony trial has me wrestling with too many questions, and this is my feeble attempt to find some answers! If you haven't already, please check out <a href="http://aquietstrength.blogspot.com/2011/07/death-penalty-revealed-truth-about-law.html">Part 1</a> to learn a little bit about Biblical examples of the death penalty and the shift from Old Testament law to a New Testament form of government. Then, come back here and read Part 2!</i><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/stuseeger/5717780262/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="Hays County Courthouse, San Marcos TX by StuSeeger, on Flickr"><img alt="Hays County Courthouse, San Marcos TX" height="266" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3180/5717780262_c06aae34e6.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Image by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/stuseeger/">StuSeeger</a></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>The Reason for Death</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Way back in <b>Genesis 4:10</b>, when Cain initiated the very first murder against his brother, the Lord heard Abel's blood "crying out from the ground". Even though this verse slightly creeps me out, it still holds extensive truth. Cain essentially destroyed<i> the</i> image of God, and his brother's soul screams for justice.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">When God created man, His likeness, or image, was stamped upon both males and females (Genesis 1:26-27). God reiterates this idea by ordering death upon anyone who sheds the blood of another, <b>"...for God made man in his own image."</b></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><b> </b></span><br />
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We can obviously conclude human life has great significance in God's eyes. Our living, breathing bodies house one of the most important parts of our Spiritual character, our soul.<b> The entirety of eternity rests on who we give permission over our being.</b> No wonder God takes murder so seriously.<span style="font-size: small;"> </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">I think <a href="http://www.desiringgod.org/">John Piper</a> said it best when he explained how <b>the death penalty is the only true way to uphold human dignity.</b> Yet we are not to take the situation into our own hands. God carefully instructs us to never use vigilante justice. The decision to bring consequences upon His people will always be His to make, even though <a href="http://aquietstrength.blogspot.com/2011/07/death-penalty-revealed-truth-about-law.html">He now appoints governing authorities </a>to carry out that decision. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>What Happened to Grace? </b></span><br />
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In one sense, the Bible seems to send out contradictory signals concerning OT law and NT grace. Ananias and Sapphira were struck dead because they <i>lied</i>, and Saul, who participated in the gruesome stoning of Stephen, was allowed to walk free and became Paul, one of the greatest New Testament characters who ever lived. The adulteress, in the book of John, was brought straight to the feet of Jesus for punishment, yet was saved from death and told to "go and sin no more".<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: small;"> </span><br />
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<div style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">The only theory I can propose involves a God who knows all when it comes to our heart. Although we are not told about the adulteress, I at least know Saul repented of his sins and was extended God's glorious grace. Was that the reason why their lives were spared? I do not have a concrete answer, but what I <i>do </i>know is <b>God can be both merciful <i>and </i>just.</b> We need to trust Him to uphold the delicate balance between the two characteristics</span><span style="font-size: small;">.</span></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</div><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">A Final Thought </span></b> </span><br />
<div style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">By no means have I extensively covered this issue.....I did not plan on it. But little Caylee Anthony's sweet face continues to haunt me, and I had to know for sure that the death penalty was the right course of action. </span><span style="font-size: small;">At first glance I felt like I was betraying my conscience, but I also know the Holy Spirit's guidance was upon me. </span><span style="font-size: small;"><b>I am now convinced, more than ever, this is the way justice needs to be served for <i>any and every </i>voice wrongfully taken away. </b></span></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Would love to hear more of your thoughts in the comment section! </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><u><b>Further Reading: </b></u></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://divinesatisfaction.com/2011/07/01/i-have-a-problem-with-grace/#comment-1122">I Have a Problem With Grace...</a> by Daniel Comings at Divine Satisfaction</span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"> - Answers the question: What happens when God's people abuse grace?</span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.albertmohler.com/2008/01/29/god-moral-judgment-and-the-death-penalty-2/">God, Moral Judgment, and the Death Penalty</a> by Al Mohler </span></span><br />
<div style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"> - An interesting article on the relationship between religion and the death penalty.<br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><i style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">If you enjoyed the thoughts and discussion in this two-part series, would you consider passing along the post to your Twitter and Facebook followers? Thanks!</span></i><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></span></span>KalynBrookehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13691277645295731689noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2247362257875690813.post-31711637563185254252011-07-06T03:00:00.001-04:002011-07-12T17:47:43.696-04:00Pray for Every Nation: Canada<i>This series is based on the <a href="http://aquietstrength.blogspot.com/2011/01/radical-christian-yes-please.html">Radical</a> Experiment by David Platt. You can find more information about my decision to join <a href="http://aquietstrength.blogspot.com/2011/02/radical-experiment-pray-for-every.html">here</a>. If you would like to participate, please let me know with a comment or email and feel free to grab the button on my sidebar. I hope this journey will enrich your prayer life as much as it does mine!</i><br />
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<b><u>Fast Facts:</u></b><br />
<ul><li><b></b>Canada is the world's second largest country</li>
<li>Population: 33.8 million</li>
<li>Official languages are English and French</li>
<li>Diverse landscape - including grasslands, forests, and arctic tundra</li>
</ul><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.operationworld.org/files/ow/maps/lgmap/cana-MMAP-md.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="224" src="http://www.operationworld.org/files/ow/maps/lgmap/cana-MMAP-md.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.operationworld.org/cana">(Photo Source)</a></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>As evangelizing Christians, we tend to focus more on reaching third-world countries and cultures foreign to us than we do our own neighborhoods and communities. Canada may not seem like a desperate mission field according to our "standards", but just because Canadians speak English, eat similar food, and have become our role model for socialized health care, does not mean evangelism and discipleship are unnecessary!<br />
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Both my husband and my sister have been involved in various ministries in Quebec, and they would tell you there is a great need for the gospel. Depravity is not limited to poverty stricken nations. In fact, sometimes it is more prevalent in what we label "advanced" cultures. <br />
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Here are some specific ways you can pray for the country of Canada:<br />
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<b>1. Pray for God's current ministers of the gospel to continue with perseverance and strength. </b><br />
<b>2. Pray God will mobilize Christians around the world to reach this country for Him.</b><b> </b><br />
<b>3. Pray that this nation will not be forgotten. </b>KalynBrookehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13691277645295731689noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2247362257875690813.post-88063877593272906632011-07-04T03:00:00.002-04:002011-07-04T03:00:01.341-04:00Summer Series: Date Idea #3<i><a href="http://aquietstrength.blogspot.com/2011/05/summer-of-intentional-marriage.html">Click here</a> to read the intro post titled, "The Summer of the Intentional Marriage".</i><br />
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Date Idea #3: <b>The Best Local Chocolate Chip Cookie Contest</b><br />
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Joseph and I both love chocolate chip cookies, but with every local bakery touting that their confection is the absolute best, we had to find out for ourselves.<br />
<b> </b><br />
We went to five different locations - three bakeries, one grocery store, and even a fast food restaurant - and rated every cookie on a 1-5 scale, accounting for taste, texture, and aesthetics.<br />
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We put each cookie on a paper plate and had the business name written on the bottom. We didn't want to be swayed by what we <i>thought</i> would be a good tasting cookie.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tMX0y8wKYc0/ThD9bkpiZ5I/AAAAAAAAAm8/2LFKfxjpN1c/s1600/DSCN4422.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tMX0y8wKYc0/ThD9bkpiZ5I/AAAAAAAAAm8/2LFKfxjpN1c/s400/DSCN4422.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Er2cVyucW9o/ThD-Bvr-pEI/AAAAAAAAAnA/djznAM0mQcg/s1600/DSCN4426.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Er2cVyucW9o/ThD-Bvr-pEI/AAAAAAAAAnA/djznAM0mQcg/s400/DSCN4426.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Mmmm....this is making want a cookie right now!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ehxFGGy9sqc/ThD-mbUTLAI/AAAAAAAAAnE/RmDxNLKd3qw/s1600/DSCN4435.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ehxFGGy9sqc/ThD-mbUTLAI/AAAAAAAAAnE/RmDxNLKd3qw/s400/DSCN4435.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
We weren't truly blown away by any one cookie (I think my homemade are still the best!), but we had so much fun driving around, and were able to experience some of our local bakeries for the first time. Between gas and the price of our cookies, we spent only around $10.00 for this date - AMAZING!<br />
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Later that day, we decided to rip apart our shed. Not exactly date material, but it was still fun!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e8TLiPamIKY/ThD_RHFaHZI/AAAAAAAAAnI/-VlHSAnBj4s/s1600/DSCN4440.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e8TLiPamIKY/ThD_RHFaHZI/AAAAAAAAAnI/-VlHSAnBj4s/s400/DSCN4440.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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Use the comment section to tell me all about your latest date night and have a very happy July 4th celebration!KalynBrookehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13691277645295731689noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2247362257875690813.post-66188649917724943342011-07-01T03:00:00.002-04:002011-07-01T17:10:54.215-04:00Death Penalty Revealed: The Truth About Law and Grace {Part 1}<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/stuseeger/5717780262/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="Hays County Courthouse, San Marcos TX by StuSeeger, on Flickr"><img alt="Hays County Courthouse, San Marcos TX" height="266" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3180/5717780262_c06aae34e6.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Image by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/stuseeger/">StuSeeger</a></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
The words <i>death penalty </i>waft through an Orlando courtroom, the tension as thick as Florida's humidity. Casey Anthony continues to solemnly observe the frenzy of activity from her seat, as defense lawyers and prosecution grill countless witnesses testifying either for or against her.<br />
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High profile cases like these have us contemplating the significance of a life lost, and a life that must pay, and has <i>me</i> wrestling with the following questions: <br />
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<b><i>Should the state really be given power to choose who deserves to live and die?</i></b><br />
<i> <b> </b></i><br />
<b><i>Who decides which Old Testament laws are relevant and which ones are not?</i></b><br />
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And most of all,<br />
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<i><b>What happened to the New Testament age of grace?</b></i><br />
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I desperately wanted to find the answers, and in doing so, I actually refuted my original thoughts. If you never previously formed an opinion about the death penalty, or have an opinion, but are unsure how to support your thoughts, take some time to prayerfully contemplate the ideas and passages of Scripture mentioned here. I have done my best to present clear, unadulterated truth, but I also know my limitations and encourage you to "get in tune" with your inner Berean as you follow along. <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Old Testament Beginnings</b></span><br />
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Capital punishment in the Old Testament emerged when treason was committed against God and specific Jewish laws. OT law was taken very seriously, as the rules set God's chosen people apart from their surrounding cultures. Death by stoning, burning, or sword were the three main methods of execution commonly practiced when particular laws were broken. <br />
<ul><li><b>Exodus 32:27</b> - God's people were punished by sword for worshiping the golden calf. </li>
<li><b>Leviticus 20:14</b> - The consequence for sexual immorality was burning to death.</li>
<li><b>Deuteronomy 13:6-11</b> - God's people were stoned for serving other gods.</li>
<li><b>Joshua 7:25</b> - Achan and his family were burned <i>and</i> stoned for disobeying God and taking spoils from Jericho. </li>
</ul>These passages are only a handful of the extensive regulations found in the Old Testament. Oh, how I would have hated to live during this time period!<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">An Authority Shift </span></b><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">In the New Testament, government, rather than OT law, decided who was punishable by death. Romans 13:4 affirms this by bestowing the title of God's servant on governing authorities and allowing them to "bear the sword". </span><br />
<ul><li><b>Matthew 14:10-11 </b>- Herod beheaded John the Baptist because of a seductress' request.</li>
<li><b>Luke 23:32</b> - Two robbers were put to death by crucifixion, alongside Jesus, whom Pilate thought did not deserve the death penalty. (Luke 23:22)</li>
<li><b>John 8:3-11</b> - The Pharisees wanted to stone an adulterous woman. </li>
<li><b>Acts 7:54-60</b> - Stephen was stoned on accounts of blasphemy. </li>
</ul>There is only one New Testament passage that comes to mind where God Himself induced the death penalty. <b>Acts 5:1-11</b> recounts the story of Ananias and Sapphira, who lied to the apostle Peter about the sale price of their property and died immediately after their fabricated story.<br />
<br />
<span id="ctl00_ctl00_MainSection_ResourceSection_lblContent">In one of his sermons, <a href="http://www.gty.org/Resources/Sermons/80-364_Why-Christians-Submit-to-the-Government?q=death+penalty">John MacArthur</a> had this to say about the government's role in initiating the death penalty,</span><br />
<blockquote style="background-color: #eeeeee;"><div style="border: 3px dotted rgb(0, 85, 136); color: black; font-size: 16px; line-height: 23px; margin: 0pt; padding: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span id="ctl00_ctl00_MainSection_ResourceSection_lblContent"> This institution of government, this ruler, this one who wields the authority of the government is the minister of God and he is avenging by bringing wrath on the one who practices evil. Capital punishment is the will of God and the executioner is the servant of God.</span></div></blockquote><b>Divine justice unfolds on earth through God-appointed governing authorities.</b> To rebel against them, is essentially the same as rebellion towards God. He instituted government because He is a God of decency and order. Lets be honest, if there were no set local, state, and federal rules of decorum, our story might eerily imitate Golding's, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0399529209/ref=as_li_tf_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=aquistr-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399381&creativeASIN=0399529209">Lord of the Flies</a>.<br />
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This does not mean the government IS God and every decision handed out by a government official is the "Word of God." As Proverbs says "The heart of a ruler is in the hand of the Lord". <b>However, we still live in a fallen world where evil constantly fights for the upper hand. </b><br />
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Next Friday, we are going to examine why God chose <i>death</i> to be the punishment of choice, and finally answer that nagging question about grace!<br />
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<u><b>Your Turn:</b></u><br />
<br />
How do we compensate for a corrupt government and legal system?<br />
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<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Source: Coleman, William. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0871235943/ref=as_li_tf_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=aquistr-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399373&creativeASIN=0871235943">Today's Handbook of Bible Times and Customs</a>. Minneapolis: Bethany House, 1984.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: #666666;">Disclosure of Material Connection:</span><i style="color: #666666;"> </i><span style="color: #666666;">Some of the links in the post above are "affiliate links." This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers. </span> </span>KalynBrookehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13691277645295731689noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2247362257875690813.post-71242718945615301302011-06-29T03:00:00.069-04:002011-06-29T03:00:07.983-04:00Pray for Every Nation: Cameroon<i>This series is based on the <a href="http://aquietstrength.blogspot.com/2011/01/radical-christian-yes-please.html">Radical</a> Experiment by David Platt. You can find more information about my decision to join <a href="http://aquietstrength.blogspot.com/2011/02/radical-experiment-pray-for-every.html">here</a>. If you would like to participate, please let me know with a comment or email and feel free to grab the button on my sidebar. I hope this journey will enrich your prayer life as much as it does mine!</i><br />
<br />
The country of Cameroon is found between the northern and southern areas of Africa and consists of French and English speaking peoples. Corruption in Cameroon is widespread, especially in government, and the country is deeply divided between native languages, political aspirations, and contrasting religious views. <b>We need to pray for unity and peace in this country!</b><br />
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I would also ask you to consider praying for a missionary my church supports over in Cameroon, Jane Schmitz. As a single missionary woman, we are always concerned about her safety. But lately, <b>God has chosen her to be the recipient of various faith testing opportunities</b>. Stolen property and days without running water may seem trite in the larger context of Christianity, but can you imagine going days without using water to cook, clean, or even take a shower?<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3lW0KnOK60g/Tgi3M1-yN9I/AAAAAAAAAm4/f5Xsc111aN8/s1600/DSCN4415.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3lW0KnOK60g/Tgi3M1-yN9I/AAAAAAAAAm4/f5Xsc111aN8/s320/DSCN4415.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
In spite of everything, Jane has maintained a positive outlook on life - her facebook statuses are always God honoring and we enjoy hearing from her even though internet connections are sketchy at best.<b> As you pray for the people of Cameroon,</b><b> please remember Jane and her continued service to Him. </b>May she continue to be a shining light in this dark country.<b><br />
</b>KalynBrookehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13691277645295731689noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2247362257875690813.post-14239953308087786202011-06-27T03:00:00.021-04:002011-06-27T09:07:37.672-04:00Are Wives Helpless Against Infidelity?<div class="MsoNormal">The Casey Anthony trial may have us glued to our TV's in jaw-dropping shock, but what has us thoroughly disgusted is the nationwide coverage of now resigned <a href="http://www.foxbusiness.com/industries/2011/06/16/anthony-weiner-resigns-from-congress/">Anthony Weiner's twitter scandal</a>. Sending lewd photographs to women other than his wife are definitely going to decrease his #twitterpoints, although <a href="http://www.foxnews.com/entertainment/2011/06/14/arnold-schwarzeneggers-mistress-maria-shriver-cried-with-me-when-truth-about/">Arnold Schwarzenegger</a> probably isn’t disappointed to hand over <i>that</i> media spotlight.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">“Men”, such as these, have us often feeling sorry for the damsel trapped in the middle. We wonder, will she stand by her husband or leave the marriage? If she chooses the latter, is she prepared to fend for herself – physically, emotionally, and financially? </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://get-your-girl.maxupdates.tv/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/Your-Relationship-Even-After-An-Affair.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="252" src="http://get-your-girl.maxupdates.tv/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/Your-Relationship-Even-After-An-Affair.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://get-your-girl.maxupdates.tv/you-can-still-salvage-your-relationship-even-after-an-affair/">(Photo Source)</a></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal"> Perhaps the real question is: <b><i>Should</i> she be?</b> </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">God intended marriage to be a permanent institution, but things <i>do</i> happen. There are husbands who cheat, walk out on their families, and refuse to support the ones they leave behind. This can leave a woman in a vulnerable and precarious position – how does she take over the husband’s role to provide when she may not have the means or resources to do so?</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">On the contrary, any woman could eliminate this utter helpless feeling were she to prepare herself financially through prenuptial agreements or separate bank accounts with little or no accountability. She could also develop a “what if” plan, including detailed lists of “who-gets-what”, right down to mortgage and childcare responsibilities. Organizationally, this makes sense, but the real issue is whether or not it’s actually Biblical. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Warnings to Consider</span></b> </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">There are three main warnings to heed as you think through this issue.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><ol start="1" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1"><li class="MsoNormal"><b>You automatically plant a seed of doubt in your mind and the mind of your husband. </b></li>
</ol><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in;">The more you think about your husband possibly cheating or walking away, the more likely you are to voice your concerns, and the more likely you are to take action and bring to fruition the very thing you want to eliminate. Satan can nurture and grow even the tiniest of seeds; we certainly do not need to give him that kind of power!</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><ol start="2" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1"><li class="MsoNormal"><b>You may not fully trust your spouse.</b></li>
</ol><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in;">On your wedding day, you made a vow to stay together, in sickness and in health, through good times and bad, until death do you part. But if you are worried your husband might cheat on you, are you truly giving him the benefit of the doubt or are you taking the situation into your own hands? You’re right, he <i>might</i> leave, but he <i>might</i> not. Nevertheless, a marriage commitment still stands........shouldn't you trust him until proven otherwise?<br />
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One of the characteristics that drew me to my husband was his loyalty. He didn’t have a slew of girlfriends on his track record; he treated his parents with respect; and put incredible effort into his job, even when it wasn’t something he truly enjoyed. I knew he was, and still is, a man of integrity, and he would commit fully to his wife. (I just prayed it would be me!) Do I still have fears? Yes, but <b>I try my hardest to push my doubts aside and trust him to never leave. </b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in;"><br />
</div><ol start="3" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1"><li class="MsoNormal"><b>You may not fully trust God. </b></li>
</ol><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in;">God has complete control over our marriages, so you and I need to stop trying to wrestle the steering wheel away from Him. He has promised to provide, no matter what happens. <a href="http://aquietstrength.blogspot.com/2011/03/this-i-promise-you.html">Remember Abraham</a>? He was promised some pretty big ticket items, and in his humanity, he doubted God. Revel in the fact that Christ is the <i>one</i> man who will never forget you, never leave or forsake you, and will never ever let you down. I call that some pretty amazing love. </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in;">I have seen marriages survive affairs, and I have seen many more that have not. Although the women are not always incapacitated on their own, would the situations have been easier had the wife prepared herself for possible infidelity beforehand? Are there any other reasons why we need to be careful when mulling over this issue? I want to know your thoughts!<br />
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<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Related Posts</b></span><br />
<br />
<a href="http://aquietstrength.blogspot.com/2011/04/routine-maintenance-is-not-just-for.html">Routine Maintenance Is Not Just For Your Car</a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7RKfmXQPkkc/TfP5HrT-8lI/AAAAAAAADZ8/4MyF7MQqPr8/s1600/Marriage+Mondays+LINK.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7RKfmXQPkkc/TfP5HrT-8lI/AAAAAAAADZ8/4MyF7MQqPr8/s200/Marriage+Mondays+LINK.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-align: center;"> <i>This post is linked to Marriage Mondays at <a href="http://comehaveapeace.blogspot.com/">Come Have a Peace</a>. </i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-align: left;"><br />
</div>KalynBrookehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13691277645295731689noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2247362257875690813.post-38006096227707286872011-06-24T03:00:00.042-04:002011-06-24T03:00:07.527-04:00A Lesson In Flexibility {From an Anti-Flexible Personality}I mentioned <a href="http://aquietstrength.blogspot.com/2011/05/we-are-going-to-haiti.html">in this post</a> how my husband and I would soon be traveling to a medical conference to receive eye training for our upcoming Haiti trip in November. The conference was a couple weeks ago, yet it has taken me until now to finally collect my thoughts. Why? <b>Because we arrived that weekend super excited to learn, and left feeling completely discouraged, defeated, and deflated. </b>Let me share with you what happened.....<br />
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My husband and I had finally finished our first day of training. Six straight hours of intense education concerning various eye anatomy, eye pathology, and examination procedures, and we were <i>still</i> psyched. We found out who the leader was for our trip and invited him to sit with us for dinner.<b> </b>We had so many questions to ask, so many ideas to discuss, and so much excitement to offer.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dominiquegodbout/4286307359/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="Glasses by Dominique Godbout, on Flickr"><img alt="Glasses" height="213" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4069/4286307359_72389bcc89.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image by<span style="font-size: x-small;"> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dominiquegodbout/">Dominique Godbout</a></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table> However, this gentleman's personality was, shall we say, a bit unexpected for an individual involved in missions. He wasn't sure he wanted a vision clinic. His idea of assisting third world countries' vision problems was passing out reading glasses with no real way to find the best prescription or help those with nearsightedness. It was frustrating, especially when we were already assured by the short-term missions organizer (who is not going on the trip) that we would utilize our training. <br />
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We came away from the conference feeling very unsure why God had excited us about this vision opportunity if we were not going to use it for Haiti. It took a lot of praying for us to accept that "our plan" was not necessarily God's plan and we could very well use the training we received for other mission trips if He so allows.<br />
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<b>At this point in time, we do not know exactly what we will be doing in Haiti.</b> If we end up assisting with vision, I feel it necessary to know so we can collect glasses and have the proper supplies beforehand. My least favorite scenario is to arrive in Haiti assuming I am assisting the medical team in other ways, and find out we are actually going to perform a vision clinic. My frustration at not being prepared would be paramount.<br />
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This is where flexibility in ministry is key, and I should know better - especially after working at camp for four summers straight! Programs, activities, and detailed schedules are worth nothing, if we have failed to communicate the saving grace of Jesus Christ. <b>The purpose is for you and I to serve.</b> It doesn't matter how, or where, or in what capacity.<br />
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Paul's unfortunate detours into prison were most likely unpredicted and even more undesirable. But his time there allowed him to pen some amazing books found in your New Testament today - Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon. Paul had no choice but<i> to be flexible</i>, and God turned a far from idyllic situation into one that glorified Him. <br />
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For now, I am humbled to know God <i>chose</i> me to serve Him in one of the poorest nations in the world. I don't have to know the exact details of the trip, because essentially, my responsibilities consist of going and making disciples. <b>The rest is in God's hands.....and I'm beginning to have a wonderful peace about that.</b><br />
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<u><b>Your Thoughts, Your Views</b></u><b></b><br />
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<i>When was the last time God gave you a lesson in flexibility</i><i>?</i><b><br />
</b>KalynBrookehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13691277645295731689noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2247362257875690813.post-5270962693472923122011-06-22T03:00:00.000-04:002011-06-22T03:00:15.130-04:00Pray for Every Nation: Cambodia<i>This series is based on the <a href="http://aquietstrength.blogspot.com/2011/01/radical-christian-yes-please.html">Radical</a> Experiment by David Platt. You can find more information about my decision to join <a href="http://aquietstrength.blogspot.com/2011/02/radical-experiment-pray-for-every.html">here</a>. If you would like to participate, please let me know with a comment or email and feel free to grab the button on my sidebar. I hope this journey will enrich your prayer life as much as it does mine!</i><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.operationworld.org/files/ow/maps/lgmap/camb-MMAP-md.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://www.operationworld.org/files/ow/maps/lgmap/camb-MMAP-md.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.operationworld.org/camb"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">(Photo Source)</span></a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>Today, I would like to share a video with you......I think it covers a variety of reasons to keep this nation in your prayers. Feel free to pray along as the Holy Spirit so leads. <br />
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<br />
<center><object height="390" width="640"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/JtTUv9cclU8&hl=en_US&feature=player_embedded&version=3"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/JtTUv9cclU8&hl=en_US&feature=player_embedded&version=3" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowScriptAccess="always" width="450" height="325"></embed></object></center>KalynBrookehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13691277645295731689noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2247362257875690813.post-14634762008993151092011-06-20T03:00:00.001-04:002011-06-20T03:00:06.195-04:00Summer Series: Date Idea #2<i><a href="http://aquietstrength.blogspot.com/2011/05/summer-of-intentional-marriage.html">Click here</a> to read the intro post titled, "The Summer of the Intentional Marriage".</i><br />
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Date Idea #2: <b>Recreate A Date</b><br />
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When Joseph and I first started dating, we went to a local park to cook some hamburgers and eat s'mores. Joseph worked so hard on all the planning, packed everything for us, and made sure we were prepared.<br />
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But.......he still forgot a few things.<br />
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Like, a spatula to flip the burgers.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M-d8GqyJCOg/Te_QVqdn3lI/AAAAAAAAAmU/9V_UMgGPeZ4/s1600/DCP_7521.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M-d8GqyJCOg/Te_QVqdn3lI/AAAAAAAAAmU/9V_UMgGPeZ4/s400/DCP_7521.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>So, we used a wire coat hanger we found in his car and bent it into a spatula shape!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iRrxWLpzv6w/Te_RGB6gikI/AAAAAAAAAmc/tbAgrsykc8U/s1600/DCP_7523.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iRrxWLpzv6w/Te_RGB6gikI/AAAAAAAAAmc/tbAgrsykc8U/s400/DCP_7523.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2005 - We look like babies!</td></tr>
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He also forgot graham crackers, so we ate our s'mores with a marshmallow between two chocolate pieces. Yum! (I don't have a picture of that one though.) :(<br />
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We decided we wanted to re-create that date, but with the proper essentials. So, we drove to a nearby state park for Memorial Day and had a picnic with our new-to-us portable grill. Cooked our hamburgers perfectly!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CqVTKp9yKf0/Te_MPV8s9BI/AAAAAAAAAmQ/wkfV3-9UFEk/s1600/DSCN4221.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CqVTKp9yKf0/Te_MPV8s9BI/AAAAAAAAAmQ/wkfV3-9UFEk/s400/DSCN4221.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><b> </b><br />
We decided to take Twix along with us to join in the fun.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qs4uy8-fTN8/Te_SBpzWkTI/AAAAAAAAAmg/L2cYlhp6hdE/s1600/DSCN4220.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qs4uy8-fTN8/Te_SBpzWkTI/AAAAAAAAAmg/L2cYlhp6hdE/s400/DSCN4220.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
And we had s'mores with graham crackers.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OBIh8bOIAfk/Te_SXTGfb8I/AAAAAAAAAmk/KPUKYcT6ycM/s1600/Smore.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OBIh8bOIAfk/Te_SXTGfb8I/AAAAAAAAAmk/KPUKYcT6ycM/s400/Smore.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
It was an absolutely gorgeous day, and so much fun to be outside spending time together!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-206x-tOFp5s/Te_SkFwAsWI/AAAAAAAAAmo/gxcnTaWon7M/s1600/DSCN4231.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-206x-tOFp5s/Te_SkFwAsWI/AAAAAAAAAmo/gxcnTaWon7M/s400/DSCN4231.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
What did you do for your latest date?<br />
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<div id="wpImg57153"><a href="http://www.inlinkz.com/wpview.php?id=57153"><img src="http://www.inlinkz.com/wpImg.php?id=57153" style="border: 0px none;" /></a></div><script src="http://www.inlinkz.com/cs.php?id=57153" type="text/javascript">
</script>KalynBrookehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13691277645295731689noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2247362257875690813.post-25564102857383932672011-06-17T03:00:00.005-04:002011-06-17T15:02:14.248-04:00"Branded: Sharing Jesus with a Consumer Culture" By Tim Sinclair<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0825438942/ref=as_li_tf_il?ie=UTF8&tag=aquistr-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217153&creative=399701&creativeASIN=0825438942" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://ws.assoc-amazon.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&Format=_SL160_&ASIN=0825438942&MarketPlace=US&ID=AsinImage&WS=1&tag=aquistr-20&ServiceVersion=20070822" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=aquistr-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0825438942&camp=217153&creative=399701" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important;" width="1" /><br />
Pithy t-shirt sayings, bumper stickers, and theological re-tweets sadly define much of Christianity today, but what would happen if we forced ourselves to share Jesus instead of hiding behind our useless self-expression and symbols? These shallow reservoirs of faith not only repel secular society, they also water down our message.<br />
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<b>Why are Christians so inept at attracting others to our faith?</b><br />
<ul><li>We are lazy. If our facebook status says we are Christian, we don't have to work so hard to prove it.</li>
<li>We create unfavorable perceptions of Jesus (a.k.a. hypocrisy).</li>
<li>We are known more for what we are against rather than Who or what we are for (think abortion clinic protests, etc).</li>
</ul>Jesus could certainly use a better marketing team. Maybe if we displayed a little bit of vulnerability and shared our hearts with our fellow friends, co-workers, and neighbors, we would radically change the current perception of Christianity. <br />
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</div><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0825438942/ref=as_li_tf_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=aquistr-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217153&creative=399701&creativeASIN=0825438942">Branded</a> was a quick, easy read, and I really enjoyed Tim Sinclair's insight into the world of "Christian marketing". The author doesn't cover every angle of the issues he presents, but I think the book does a great job at pointing out specific problems, giving a few solutions, and prodding further study and thought if one so desires.<br />
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There were a few things I didn't like, and they are perhaps more of a personal preference than doctrinally wrong. I felt uncomfortable defining Christianity and Jesus in purely marketing terms. Technically speaking, Jesus becomes the <i>product</i> we <i>sell </i>and <i>promote</i> to the world. Semantics? Maybe. But I really detest thinking of Jesus as our <i>product</i>.<br />
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</div><div style="text-align: left;"><i><b>Disclosure:</b> Although I received this book for free from <a href="http://litfusegroup.com/">Litfuse Publicity</a>, the opinions are completely my own. Also, product links are affiliate links.</i> <i> </i></div>KalynBrookehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13691277645295731689noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2247362257875690813.post-55271491265834762682011-06-15T03:00:00.000-04:002011-06-15T03:00:07.863-04:00Pray for Every Nation: Bulgaria<i>This series is based on the <a href="http://aquietstrength.blogspot.com/2011/01/radical-christian-yes-please.html">Radical</a> Experiment by David Platt. You can find more information about my decision to join <a href="http://aquietstrength.blogspot.com/2011/02/radical-experiment-pray-for-every.html">here</a>. If you would like to participate, please let me know with a comment or email and feel free to grab the button on my sidebar. I hope this journey will enrich your prayer life as much as it does mine!</i><br />
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<b>Bulgaria</b>.........7.5 million people........160,000 abortions per year.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.operationworld.org/files/ow/maps/lgmap/bulg-MMAP-md.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://www.operationworld.org/files/ow/maps/lgmap/bulg-MMAP-md.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.operationworld.org/bulg">(Photo Source)</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Bulgarian girls can receive abortions as young as age 13 and view the "procedure" as a form of birth control rather than the destruction of human life. <br />
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Granted, fewer abortions occur annually in Bulgaria compared to the million or so performed in the United States, but we need to open our eyes to these alarming statistics in other countries, rather than focus solely on America.<br />
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<a href="http://www.heartbeatinternational.org/services-homepage/">Heartbeat International</a> already has<a href="http://www.heartbeatinternational.org/international-impact/international-centers/bulgaria"> an affiliate</a> on the ground in Bulgaria, educating women and encouraging abstinence before marriage. She has even opened a pregnancy center to provide support and counseling to those facing an abortion or the aftereffects of one.<br />
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Keep Bulgaria in your prayers this week, especially the young women who are considering abortion.<b> Pray that God will bring older women alongside these girls to guide them through their decisions. </b>KalynBrookehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13691277645295731689noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2247362257875690813.post-75547404160173787392011-06-13T03:00:00.015-04:002011-06-13T03:00:12.173-04:00Ch-Ch-Ch-Changes......A plethora of exciting things are happening behind the scenes at A Quiet Strength. <b>My husband and I have been working on a "new" site and will hopefully launch early to mid July! </b><br />
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A Quiet Strength has been a wonderful starter blog for me. It has helped me improve and hone my writing skills and has allowed me the opportunity to participate in the wonderful blogging community. But I want to take it further, and I believe a re-branding of A Quiet Strength, combined with a move to Wordpress, will assist me in doing so.<br />
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I have really put a lot of thought into this blog, what I am most passionate in writing about, etc, and my true excitement lies within a connection between our faith and culture. <b>This new site will give you the tools to dig deeper into Scripture and discover God's principles concerning various cultural, societal, and political "norms". </b>(And hopefully foster some really great discussions!)<br />
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Want to know what is really cool? <br />
<br />
<b>This site will be geared specifically toward women. </b><br />
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So, I hope you will consider joining me in this next chapter! Many of the articles I have written here will be transferred over to the new blog, so you won't see a <i>huge</i> difference in content - they will just be more focused. <br />
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Oh, and did I forget to mention the name? How silly of me.<br />
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I shall call it, <b>The Feminine Intellect</b>. (And no, that is not an oxymoron.) <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.make-my-own-house.com/images/smart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.make-my-own-house.com/images/smart.jpg" /></a></div>Be on the lookout for future updates with more information!KalynBrookehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13691277645295731689noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2247362257875690813.post-87349745089740849662011-06-10T03:00:00.009-04:002011-06-10T21:40:23.602-04:00Why I Don't Feel Guilty Reading Fiction<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pzDu0rYuqds/TeQG8Laz9KI/AAAAAAAAAmA/DdtT47LGfS0/s1600/DSCN4239.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pzDu0rYuqds/TeQG8Laz9KI/AAAAAAAAAmA/DdtT47LGfS0/s200/DSCN4239.JPG" width="150" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal">Years ago, I had a love/hate relationship with fiction. Every time I picked up the latest Christian fiction novel, a little voice in my head would inevitably chime in saying, </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><i>“Don’t you have anything better to do with your time? You should be reading something more intellectually stimulating or spiritually challenging, not some silly unrealistic romance.” </i></div><div class="MsoNormal"><u><span style="text-decoration: none;"><br />
</span></u></div><div class="MsoNormal">The thing was, deep thought provoking books often took me months to read, as opposed to the day or two I spent devouring the stories of a young Amish woman or prairie wife. I simply did not want to commit that much time or brain power to a “textbook” I would never pick up again.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">I have finally learned how to balance the fiction/non-fiction scale and now enjoy reading both genres, but the real breakthrough occurred when I decided to release the guilt building up inside me about my bookcase full of fiction novels. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b>1. I realized fiction was my mini getaway from life</b>; a time for me to sit back and not worry about the dishes, the laundry, etc. There were times when <i>I needed</i> that break from the mundane, not only to keep my sanity, but also so I would not burn out too quickly. Reading a few chapters during an afternoon lull was enough to keep me physically and emotionally charged so I could tackle the rest of my routine. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b>2. A unique way to learn history can be through a fiction novel</b>. Arrays of fairly accurate historical stories have been published throughout the years, which provide a realistic view of life during various time periods. That makes this history buff very happy. <span style="font-family: Wingdings;">:)</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">I need to point out though that there are just as many inaccurate versions as there are true. Nevertheless, you can turn these stories into a stepping stone for personal research and still discover some rich history for yourself. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b>3. Fiction can be life-changing</b>. Authors, such as <a href="http://www.karenkingsbury.com/">Karen Kingsbury</a>, write novels that are inspiring, heart-wrenching, and end up bringing you closer to God through the entire story. They are not your happily ever after type of fiction, rather, they are often stories sparked by real people who have real problems and need to rely on their faith to pull them through. She covers issues of <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1931722854/ref=as_li_tf_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=aquistr-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399349&creativeASIN=1931722854">adoption</a>, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0310266955/ref=as_li_tf_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=aquistr-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399349&creativeASIN=0310266955">autism</a>, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001EM0YIQ/ref=as_li_tf_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=aquistr-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399349&creativeASIN=B001EM0YIQ">9/11 tragedies</a>, and <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/159554688X/ref=as_li_tf_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=aquistr-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399353&creativeASIN=159554688X">broken marriages</a><label id="showTextCategoryLinkPreview_l1">; I dare you to read one of her book and not be moved! </label></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Even though I have given three good reasons why I think you and I can read fiction and not feel guilty, I still believe a steady diet of Christian fiction will consequently turn your brain to mush. Take a balanced approach, vary your genres, and always be reading with a Biblical filter, no matter which book you choose. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><i>Disclosure: All product links are affiliate links.</i><br />
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For further reading, check out the article <a href="http://blog.christianitytoday.com/women/2011/06/why_romance_novels_arent_emoti.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+christianitytoday%2Fblog%2Fwomen+%28Her.meneutics%29"><i>Why Romance Novels Aren't Emotional Porn </i></a>by Her.meneutics. </div>KalynBrookehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13691277645295731689noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2247362257875690813.post-43142686243254863882011-06-08T03:00:00.001-04:002011-06-08T03:00:08.779-04:00Pray for Every Nation: Brunei, Burkina, and Burundi<i>This series is based on the <a href="http://aquietstrength.blogspot.com/2011/01/radical-christian-yes-please.html">Radical</a> Experiment by David Platt. You can find more information about my decision to join <a href="http://aquietstrength.blogspot.com/2011/02/radical-experiment-pray-for-every.html">here</a>. If you would like to participate, please let me know with a comment or email and feel free to grab the button on my sidebar. I hope this journey will enrich your prayer life as much as it does mine!</i><br />
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<b>Brunei</b>, a country slightly larger than the state of Delaware, has an approximate population of about 400,000, 65% of which follow the Islamic faith.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.operationworld.org/files/ow/maps/lgmap/brun-MMAP-md.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="224" src="http://www.operationworld.org/files/ow/maps/lgmap/brun-MMAP-md.png" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"> <a href="http://www.operationworld.org/brun">(Photo Source)</a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>The Sultan has complete control over the people of Brunei, especially since he is one of the richest men in the world due to the oil industry. He provides his subjects with an array of perks, including free health care, which makes it harder for those to oppose him and his religion. <b>Evangelism and conversion from Muslim to Christianity are strictly forbidden and <a href="http://www.compassdirect.org/english/country/otherasia/2001/newsarticle_0671.html">some have even been arrested </a>for sharing their faith. </b><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.operationworld.org/files/ow/maps/lgmap/burk-MMAP-md.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://www.operationworld.org/files/ow/maps/lgmap/burk-MMAP-md.png" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.operationworld.org/burk"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">(Photo Source)</span></a></div><br />
<b>Burkina Faso</b> is a little country located in northern Africa. Although half of the 16 million citizens are Muslim, poverty still remains as Burkina's number one issue. <b>The country desperately needs aid and stable economic development that will create a self-sustaining nation, not a dependent one. </b><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.operationworld.org/files/ow/maps/lgmap/buru-MMAP-md.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://www.operationworld.org/files/ow/maps/lgmap/buru-MMAP-md.png" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.operationworld.org/buru"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">(Photo Source)</span></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><b>Burundi</b>, also located in Africa, currently has a professing born-again Christian as it's president. Hopefully, this answer to prayer will continue to influence current leadership decisions for the country. <b>But decade-old conflicts still exist between various people groups, and violence throughout Burundi is quite common. </b><br />
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Please remember each of these countries in your prayer time this week. May God's work be seen throughout the nations of Brunei, Burkina Faso, and Burundi.KalynBrookehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13691277645295731689noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2247362257875690813.post-66760594367710314502011-06-06T03:00:00.004-04:002011-06-08T15:51:52.957-04:00Summer Series: Date Idea #1<i><a href="http://aquietstrength.blogspot.com/2011/05/summer-of-intentional-marriage.html">Click here</a> to read the intro post titled, "The Summer of the Intentional Marriage".</i><br />
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Date Idea #1: <b>Dinner and a Movie.......Take-Out Style</b><br />
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Since when do you have to "go out" for a date night? You can create a very special night at home for the two of you, and you can do it under $20!<br />
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Here are the details... <br />
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<b>1. We dressed up.</b> <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7SI0JQLLZ9w/TeOxDDgGaOI/AAAAAAAAAlw/8r9TQ_STrJw/s1600/DSCN4067.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7SI0JQLLZ9w/TeOxDDgGaOI/AAAAAAAAAlw/8r9TQ_STrJw/s400/DSCN4067.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Most of us women dress up only to go out for dinner or a special event. But there are times when I know I am only doing so for the benefit of others, not necessarily for my husband. Since we were not going anywhere, we decided to take time to look especially nice for one another. It actually made the night more fun!<br />
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<b>2. We ordered take-out.</b><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-usnPwh2qIN8/TeOzBW-exKI/AAAAAAAAAl0/iMG6C328t0c/s1600/DSCN4064.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-usnPwh2qIN8/TeOzBW-exKI/AAAAAAAAAl0/iMG6C328t0c/s400/DSCN4064.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<b> </b>I could have made dinner - it would have been a lot cheaper, but it also would have been a lot more hassle. This way, I could sit back and enjoy our meal without working in the kitchen or staring at a huge stack of dirty dishes.<br />
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<b>3. We had our own dessert.</b><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hZUqJTCOU5I/TeOzSaorhWI/AAAAAAAAAl4/7to53Ik1d70/s1600/DSCN4069.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hZUqJTCOU5I/TeOzSaorhWI/AAAAAAAAAl4/7to53Ik1d70/s400/DSCN4069.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><b> </b> <br />
We had a coupon to make our take-out less expensive, so we wanted to splurge and add a dessert. But the cheesecake we ordered was, shall we say, quite unpleasant. So we dug into our stockpile of ice cream. :)<br />
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<b>4. We ordered a Red-Box movie.</b><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5GSJ1RNfXg8/TeO0HWsjw4I/AAAAAAAAAl8/STB7CvVK-Hw/s1600/DSCN4070.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5GSJ1RNfXg8/TeO0HWsjw4I/AAAAAAAAAl8/STB7CvVK-Hw/s400/DSCN4070.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Seriously, you can't go wrong for a $1.08 movie.<br />
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We both had a really enjoyable evening and it was nice to actually focus on each other, instead of the never-ending pile of things to do in our house!<br />
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</b></u><br />
<u><b>Other Variations/Ideas:</b></u><br />
- If you find yourself lacking in conversation, come up with some topics before hand. You can do this by creating "conversation cards" and whenever you find yourself hitting a lull, pull one out to discuss. You may find out something about your spouse you never knew before!<br />
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<div id="wpImg57153"><a href="http://www.inlinkz.com/wpview.php?id=57153"><img src="http://www.inlinkz.com/wpImg.php?id=57153" style="border: 0px none;" /></a></div><script src="http://www.inlinkz.com/cs.php?id=57153" type="text/javascript">
</script>KalynBrookehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13691277645295731689noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2247362257875690813.post-35336720186122044112011-06-04T03:00:00.001-04:002011-06-04T03:00:04.551-04:00"My Foolish Heart" by Susan May Warren<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-seEK2wwUHcY/TebY2ue7RRI/AAAAAAAAAmI/iTUcwJhB-HA/s1600/myfoolishheart+cover+sm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-seEK2wwUHcY/TebY2ue7RRI/AAAAAAAAAmI/iTUcwJhB-HA/s1600/myfoolishheart+cover+sm.jpg" /></a></div><i>I don't usually post on Saturdays, but today I am participating in a <a href="http://litfusegroup.com/blogtours/text/13297362">blog tour</a>! Thank you Litfuse Publicity!</i><br />
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According to Deep Haven's residents, Isadora Presley is a woman who refuses to venture far from her home and seems scared of her own shadow. But not everyone knows the tragic accident that left Isadora without her mother also haunts her mind in the form of post-traumatic stress disorder.<br />
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As Isadora learns to cope with her anxiety, she finds satisfaction working from home as the host of her very own radio show, <i>Miss Foolish Heart</i>. Giving love advice to her callers has it's perks, but she never imagined she would start having feelings for one of them.<br />
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When her new neighbor starts showing interest, Isadora finds herself slowly opening up to him. Should she trust him with her heart, or would that be too foolish?<br />
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<i>You can read an excerpt from the book <a href="http://www.susanmaywarren.com/my-foolish-heart-excerpt/">here</a>. </i><br />
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<i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1414334826/ref=as_li_tf_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=aquistr-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217153&creative=399701&creativeASIN=1414334826">My Foolish Heart </a></i> was such a fun book to read. My interest was piqued on every page and I simply could not put it down. The various sub-plots give depth and variety to the story and the author's character descriptions demonstrated her superb writing.The residents of Deep Haven are just as charming as they were in Susan's first books and I enjoyed "getting to know them" all over again.<br />
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I also appreciated the care in which the author handled PTSD. Susan opened my eyes to this very serious medical issue and the hardships of those who experience the anxiety of past trauma. <br />
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I would recommend <i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1414334826/ref=as_li_tf_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=aquistr-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217153&creative=399701&creativeASIN=1414334826">My Foolish Heart</a></i> by Susan May Warren, as well as any other book in the Deep Haven Series!<br />
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<i><b>Disclosure</b>: Although I received this book for free from Litefuse Publicity, all opinions are completely my own. All product links are affiliate links. </i><br />
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<b>Now, are you ready for some fun?</b><br />
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To celebrate this charming novel about a dating expert who's never had a date, Susan has put together a romantic night on the town for one lucky couple. One grand prize winner will receive a Miss Foolish Heart prize package worth over $200!<br />
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<br />
<center><a href="http://wildfireapp.com/website/6/contests/126623"> <img alt="SMW Miss Foolish Heart Giveaway" height="200" src="http://edge.virbcdn.com/_f/files/resize_1024x1365/87/FileItem-75682-foolish_300x250.jpg" width="250" /> </a></center><br />
<b>The winner of the Romantic Night on the Town Prize Pack will receive:</b><br />
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* A $100 Visa Gift Card (For Dinner)<br />
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* A $100 Gift Certificate to a Hyatt/Marriott Hotel<br />
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* The entire Deep Haven series<br />
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To enter just click one of the icons below. But, hurry, the giveaway ends at noon on June 16th. The <b>winner will be announced that evening during <a href="http://%0a%0awww.facebook.com/event.php?eid=101983386561082">Susan’s Miss Foolish Heart Party on Facebook</a></b>! Susan will be chatting with guests, hosting a book club chat about <i>My Foolish Heart</i>, testing your Deep Haven trivia skills, and giving away tons of great stuff! (Gift certificates, books, donuts, and more!) <b>Don't miss the fun and BRING YOUR FRIENDS! </b><br />
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</b><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://wildfireapp.com/website/6/contests/126623" target="_blank"><img
alt="Enter via E-mail" height="48" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-uZ-
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title="Enter via E-mail" width="48" /></a> <a href="http://apps.facebook.com/
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height="48" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-ZBHv5uije28/TXqYfJCLMkI/
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via Facebook" width="48" /></a><a href="http://wildfireapp.com/twitter/233/contests/
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://movie-area.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/The-Adjustment-Bureau-2011-Movie-Poster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://movie-area.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/The-Adjustment-Bureau-2011-Movie-Poster.jpg" width="133" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://movie-area.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/The-Adjustment-Bureau-2011-Movie-Poster.jpg"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">(Photo Source)</span></a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><a href="http://ia.media-imdb.com/images/M/MV5BMTU3ODg3MDAxMl5BMl5BanBnXkFtZTcwMjc0MDMzNA@@._V1._SY317_CR0,0,214,317_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</a><br />
The <a href="http://www.imdb.com/">Internet Movie Database</a> describes <i>The Adjustment Bureau</i> with the following opening statements:<br />
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<i><b>"Do we control our destiny, or do unseen forces manipulate us?</b> </i><br />
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<b><i>Matt Damon stars in the thriller </i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004WCTLNY/ref=as_li_tf_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=aquistr-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217153&creative=399701&creativeASIN=B004WCTLNY">The Adjustment Bureau</a><i> as a man who glimpses the future Fate has planned for him and realizes he wants something else."</i></b><br />
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For me, it is definitely interesting to watch secular entertainment media as it tries to grapple with an issue that even we as Christians struggle with. In case you haven't seen the movie (Rated PG-13 for brief strong language, some sexuality [no nudity] and a violent image) let me bring you up to speed without spoiling it for you should you decide to watch it.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://t1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTzG92_v2EQ0ObL8m0EGmHgLSXbEyrnpbtDTDOWuE9XIZEcl8dVew&t=1" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="148" src="http://t1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTzG92_v2EQ0ObL8m0EGmHgLSXbEyrnpbtDTDOWuE9XIZEcl8dVew&t=1" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://t1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTzG92_v2EQ0ObL8m0EGmHgLSXbEyrnpbtDTDOWuE9XIZEcl8dVew&t=1"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">(Photo Source)</span></a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>David Norris (played by Matt Damon) is an aspiring politician with the world seemingly at his fingertips. Suddenly, due to public relations problems, he loses an election. For a brief moment, he feels like his life is out of his control. In this time of personal tragedy he is inspired by a chance (or was it?) encounter with a young woman named Elise (played by Emily Blunt). Elise is just what Mr. Norris needed to motivate him to get back in the game. However, at this point, David also finds himself hopelessly in love with this elusive Elise, but finds himself blocked at every turn by a mysterious group of CIA-ish men, whenever he tries to find her. Eventually he is faced with a basic choice - <b>give up his dreams, or give up her. </b><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Though my description of the plot may make the movie sound a bit shallow - trust me when I tell you that it's not. Various questions are posed throughout the movie. <b>Are his dreams something he wants or are they his destiny? Is he free to choose who he loves or has it been chosen for him?</b> And probably the biggest underlying questions throughout the whole movie: <b>Are we in control of our own fate and can we change it? </b><b>Or are there greater powers at work that are positioning us like pawns on a chess board?</b><br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://podictionary.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/pawn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://podictionary.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/pawn.jpg" width="117" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://podictionary.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/pawn.jpg">(Photo Source)</a></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>Some references to consider: <br />
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<b>Ephesians 1:5</b> says those who have accepted Christ....were already predestined to be a child of God.<br />
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<b>Proverbs 21:1</b> says the king's heart is a stream of water in the hand of the Lord; He turns it wherever He will.<br />
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<b>Psalm 139</b> speaks of how God forms you in the womb and knows about you before you even existed. He knows your every movement.<br />
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That is just scratching the surface of predestination in the Bible. However, as I study His Word, <b>I don't see a God who is using us as game pieces</b>, moving us across a large game board for his own entertainment. God is involved in His creation, and I do understand from Scripture that he uses people to impact others for His glory. If we had no choice (or free will) in the matters of life, then there would be no responsibility or accountability on our part. <br />
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As an avid board gamer - my game pieces are not responsible for me winning or losing a game. I move them across the board, at my will, and then I am responsible for whether or not I win or lose.<b> In life, the Bible is very clear that we, although predestined, are still responsible for our own actions.</b><br />
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There are many Biblical examples of this but I will just use one:<br />
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<b>2 Corinthians 5:10</b> says Christians will stand before the judgement seat of Christ to receive what is due him for what he has done in the body of Christ, for good or for evil.<br />
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I don't think there is any stronger push for personal responsibility than that. Some day, <b>we will stand before God Himself, and give an account for our actions here on earth.</b> Somehow I doubt the phrase, "But you made me do it" will be on our tongues. <br />
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So my answer to the big question,<br />
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<b><i>Am I personally responsible for my actions or is there a higher power who is in control?</i></b><br />
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The answer is.....<b>yes.</b><br />
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The Bible is clear that God is involved in His creation. The Bible is also clear that God will not cause me to sin, so that means I still have choice. And since I will one day face God and answer to Him for all my actions here on earth,<b> I am also personally responsible for my decisions.</b><br />
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While I would never suggest that someone should glean their theology from a movie, I do believe that the arts have the ability to help us take a different look at an issue, IF we engage our mind while watching. <br />
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<div style="background-color: #f3f3f3;"></div><div style="background-color: #eeeeee; border: 3px dotted rgb(0, 85, 136); color: black; line-height: 23px; margin: 0pt; padding: 15px; text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-omTxBxwQohw/TebjSfA2YhI/AAAAAAAAAmM/Vl9I1iBUxQ0/s1600/joseph.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-omTxBxwQohw/TebjSfA2YhI/AAAAAAAAAmM/Vl9I1iBUxQ0/s1600/joseph.jpg" /></a></div>Joseph Comings works as an operations technician for a regional news station and actively participates in his church's Adult Bible Fellowships and AVL (Audio, Video, Lights) ministry. In addition to discussions on politics and spiritual matters, he enjoys his hobby of European board games and eating Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough ice cream.<br />
<div style="text-align: right;"> </div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div></div><br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004WCTLNY/ref=as_li_tf_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=aquistr-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217153&creative=399701&creativeASIN=B004WCTLNY">The Adjustment Bureau</a><i> is scheduled to release on DVD later this month.</i><br />
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<i><b>Disclosure:</b> All product links are affiliate links. </i>KalynBrookehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13691277645295731689noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2247362257875690813.post-81873514441935538042011-06-01T03:00:00.005-04:002011-06-01T20:51:40.951-04:00Pray for Every Nation: Brazil<i>This series is based on the <a href="http://aquietstrength.blogspot.com/2011/01/radical-christian-yes-please.html">Radical</a> Experiment by David Platt. You can find more information about my decision to join <a href="http://aquietstrength.blogspot.com/2011/02/radical-experiment-pray-for-every.html">here</a>. If you would like to participate, please let me know with a comment or email and feel free to grab the button on my sidebar. I hope this journey will enrich your prayer life as much as it does mine!</i><br />
<br />
<div style="background-color: #f3f3f3;"></div><div style="background-color: #eeeeee; border: 3px dotted rgb(0, 85, 136); color: black; line-height: 23px; margin: 0pt; padding: 15px; text-align: justify;">My brother-in-law, Andrew Comings, has agreed to post about today's country from his unique perspective. He and his family are missionaries to Brazil, so I know for sure he has more authority on this topic than I do! Enjoy!</div><u><br />
</u><br />
<u><b>Brazil: Mis-Understood Giant</b></u><br />
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“Ever been on the Amazon?”<br />
“They have a great soccer team!”<br />
“I hear there are a lot of beautiful women down there,”<br />
“Do you speak Spanish?”<br />
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The preceding quotes represent the most common responses I received after informing random Americans that I live and work in Brazil. Before we go further, my responses were as follows:<br />
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“No.”<br />
“Yes, they do.”<br />
“Indeed, I married one.”<br />
“No, because in Brazil we speak Portuguese. Weren’t you paying attention in school?”<br />
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The questions, however, reveal the common misconception of Brazil on the part of Americans. To many of my compatriots, Brazil is indeed a vast jungle inhabited by phenomenal soccer players and nubile women--all of them <i>hablando espanol</i> and participating in a sort of perpetual <i>carnaval</i>.<br />
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The truth is surprising to many. Brazil is a vast country (larger than continental United States) with a surprisingly diverse population. Besides the dominant mix of indigenous, African, and Portuguese stock, there are large communities of German, Italian, Arab, and Oriental peoples. The largest Japanese community outside of Japan lives in Brazil.<br />
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Far from a primitive nation, Brazil has one of the world’s fastest-growing economies. Petrobras is one of the planet’s largest oil concerns, the Vale company has become an international mining giant, and chances are you have flown on an Embraer jet--made in Brazil.<br />
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And Brazilians play other sports than soccer. Indeed, they dominate world volleyball (beach and traditional), have produced NBA players, and top-seeded tennis competitors. And in the world of racing, names like Ayerton Senna, Emerson Fitipaldi, and Helio Castroneves are almost as sacred to Brazilians as that of Pelé.<br />
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While the above-mentioned misconceptions about Brazil are annoying, to say the least, there is another mis-conception, prevalent in American churches, that is nothing short of tragic: the false idea that Brazil is already evangelized.<br />
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While it is true that much progress has been made for the Gospel in Brazil over the last five decades, the unmistakable truth is that there is still much to do. Consider the following statistics:<br />
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<b>Seventy-four percent of Brazilians still consider themselves Roman Catholics.</b><br />
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That comes out to roughly 160,600,000 people who are still bound to a system of works which is completely foreign to the Gospel of Grace.<br />
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<b>Syncretistic Afro-Brazilian religions like Candomblé and Umbanda represent the fastest-growing belief systems in Brazil.</b> These mixtures of African tribalism with Catholicism are nothing other than demon worship. Popular Brazilian media is doing all it can to promote this cancer on society.<br />
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Over seven million of the roughly fifteen percent of Brazilians who consider themselves “evangelical” are members of churches that do not preach the Gospel.</b> These range from semi-cults like the Seventh-day Adventists to “health-and-wealth” churches like the Universal Church of the Kingdom of God. The latter are particularly dangerous, replacing the Gospel with a “get-rich-quick-by-giving-us-money” scheme.<br />
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In light of the above facts, and because of the love God has put in our heart for the Brazilian people, my wife Itacyara and I have dedicated our lives to bringing the true Gospel of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ to this amazing land. We live and work in the city of São Luís, which is the capital of the state of Maranhão. Our ministry includes, evangelism, children’s work and community outreach--all with the purpose of planting a strong, reproducing church in the city.<br />
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So the next time you find yourself on an Embraer jet, or watching the Brazilian soccer team work their magic on the field, please remember to pray for the work God has given us in that country. Here are some prayer requests to start you off:<br />
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* Pray that religious liberty in Brazil would continue.<br />
* Pray that Brazil’s government and economy would remain stable.<br />
* Pray that Brazil’s believers would use their newfound prosperity for the advancement of the Kingdom of God.<br />
* Pray for the strength and multiplication of Gospel-preaching churches in Brazil.<br />
* Pray of the city of São Luís.<br />
* Pray for the safety (physical and spiritual) of the Comings family.<br />
* Finally, pray that God would raise up a multitude of workers to reach that great, beautiful, misunderstood giant called Brazil.<br />
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<div style="background-color: #f3f3f3;"></div><div style="background-color: #eeeeee; border: 3px dotted rgb(0, 85, 136); color: black; line-height: 23px; margin: 0pt; padding: 15px;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GpEYBMwh_BU/Tdp8chL-VWI/AAAAAAAAAlo/SKxSfBSQcIU/s1600/12843_183246803127_500418127_2910057_7562370_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="160" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GpEYBMwh_BU/Tdp8chL-VWI/AAAAAAAAAlo/SKxSfBSQcIU/s200/12843_183246803127_500418127_2910057_7562370_n.jpg" width="175" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">Andrew Comings is a Baptist Mid-Missions missionary in Maranhão, Brazil. He and his wife, Itacyara (aka The Brazilian Bombshell), have two sons: Michael and Nathanael. In his spare time Andrew blogs in English at <a href="http://www.comingstobrazil.com/">www.comingstobrazil.com</a> and in Portuguese at <a href="http://cadernoteologico.wordpress.com/">cadernoteologico.wordpress.com</a>. Despite his field of service, Andrew does not drink coffee in any of its manifold forms.</div></div>KalynBrookehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13691277645295731689noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2247362257875690813.post-36378968416521281702011-05-30T10:10:00.001-04:002011-06-22T15:44:55.791-04:00We Are Going To Haiti...Remember when<a href="http://aquietstrength.blogspot.com/2011/04/japan-donation-results-and-thoughts-on.html"> I hinted in another post </a>how my husband and I might have an opportunity to participate in short-term missions this year? <b>Well, the pieces are quickly falling into place for us to travel to the poverty stricken nation of Haiti.</b> Although we are extremely excited to see how God will use us in this foreign country, we are both humbled and have a healthy nervousness about what we may encounter. <br />
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In late November, we will be traveling with an ABWE medical team and stay on site at the Baptist Haiti Mission outside Port-au-Prince. Many of you may be thinking, "What will you do? You have no medical experience at all!" You're right. But we are not going to be performing massive surgeries or stitching up open wounds. (I promise!) We will be performing simple eye exams and fitting the Haitians with proper eye glass prescriptions. We are actually attending a vision training seminar within the next couple weeks and will be officially certified to be eye examiners - only in third world countries, of course. :) <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Go-GGZtJ1us/TeLPRWnh2iI/AAAAAAAAAls/b9C0E_nAGLA/s1600/DSCN4206.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Go-GGZtJ1us/TeLPRWnh2iI/AAAAAAAAAls/b9C0E_nAGLA/s200/DSCN4206.JPG" width="150" /></a></div><b>This past weekend, we had our first official "fundraiser" to offset some of our mission costs - a yard/bake sale</b>. So many of my friends and family jumped on board to participate, either by donating items or baking yummy cookies to sell. We had a wonderful turnout and have already made significant progress toward our financial goal.<b> </b>Thank you so very much to everyone who was involved. I am truly blessed.<br />
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I promise to keep everyone updated about our trip. <b>Joseph and I would very much appreciate your prayers in the coming months.</b> We are hoping God will give us the opportunity to see<a href="http://aquietstrength.blogspot.com/2011/03/our-sponsorship-papers-arrived.html"> the little girl we sponsor</a> and possibly be able to help her family, financially or in some other way. We have so much, while they live on close to nothing. We don't want to leave without matching a personality to the face we have prayed for and loved.<br />
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<b>Most of all, our greatest desire is for God to open our eyes and give us compassion for His people in Haiti, to be affected by their culture and their need for Christ.</b> God forbid we return to America the same as which we left.KalynBrookehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13691277645295731689noreply@blogger.com0