Message: “
Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth…” Ecclesiastes 12:1 This picture of me with the violin was taken on January 15, 2017 – 7 years ago at church! I couldn’t believe how long it had been. As I looked at the picture again, I recalled myself at that time. By God’s grace, I gave my life to Christ as a teenager. Till date, it would be the best decision I have ever made. As a single person, I loved the Lord and served Him wholeheartedly. My youth was essentially dedicated to the Lord. Today, I reap the benefits of knowing God and the peace and joy in choosing to do His will in all areas of my life.
As a young person you may have been deceived by Satan to believe that deciding for Jesus at your age may hinder you from the “wonderful” experiences of sexually transmitted diseases, pregnancy out of wedlock, alcohol and drug abuse which usually results in changes in mentation and proper functioning, suicide, burglary and theft, etc. This day, I pray that God will give you a heart that will perceive of His perfect love for you, eyes that will be opened to behold the lamb of God that takes away the sins of the world, and ears that will hear his voice that gently leads to success on earth and rest in eternity.
Modesty:
My clothes must be a representation and symbol of purity – so that when people cast their eyes on me my attire should not cause their minds to wallow in sexual images and desires. People should look at me and be encouraged unto purity and holiness. We should as women lift up a standard!
A godly standard of inner and outward godliness! It is about time we come out of the mentality of showcasing our “goods” to the world.
A wise woman covers that which is precious. Our bodies are precious and should be encased to reveal its worth. That which you deem worthy and valuable is well preserved and not freely given away to just anyone. Modesty is absolute surrender of one’s body to God; with the understanding that crucifixion with Christ implies that we no longer live for our flesh, but that Christ lives within to be revealed daily through our dress. Marriage: Submission as you may know is God’s will. Submission is required for all both single and married. I discussed submission in marriage previously and someone asked how they can practice submission as a single person. As a single person it is important to first submit to God and receive His salvation. Then seek His mind regarding everything that you do. In decision making, plans, desires etc
In your home, submit to your parents by being available, obeying their instructions, listening to their counsel and not demanding your own ways; ask them how you may assist them and serve them joyfully.In your church, be available as well – volunteer to serve when there is food, be willing to clean bathrooms and any other part of the church building. As the Lord leads you, serve in a department in the church and be committed and consistent – choir, children’s or youth ministry, hospitality ministry etc.At your job, do your job diligently – avoid gossip and back talking bosses. Focus on your responsibilities and seek to do an excellent work. Be teachable: be willing to receive instruction and follow that instruction with a sincere heart. Be willing to learn new things through knowledge acquisition and proper application. Also be willing to receive correction when necessary and amend your ways with an apology if required. Be humble. Be approachable: 1. Smile: A smile is inviting and helps create a positive atmosphere. It shows that you are friendly and approachable. 2. Maintain open body language: Avoid crossing your arms or standing with your back turned towards others. Instead, keep an open posture, facing towards others, and maintaining eye contact. 3. Listen actively: Show genuine interest in what others are saying. Listen attentively, nod, and respond appropriately. This signals that you value their opinions and encourages them to share moreAbove all pray for the heart of submission. God is faithful to grant such a desire.
Here are some scriptural references:“Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” James 4:7“Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right.”Honour thy father and mother; which is the first commandment with promise; That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth.” Ephesians 6:1-3“Therefore, my beloved brothers and sisters, be steadfast, immovable, always excelling in the work of the Lord [always doing your best and doing more than is needed], being continually aware that your labor [even to the point of exhaustion] in the Lord is not futile nor wasted [it is never without purpose].”1 Corinthians 15:58 AMP”Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest.” Ecclesiastes 9:10-12
Motherhood: it is my understanding that women can both be career women and function in the role of motherhood. It is not easy, but it is possible. The most important thing is to make your home a priority. The Proverbs 31 woman was a fruitful entrepreneur and a faithful wife and mother. Below I’ve shared a few points about motherhood and career – how they differ and how they are similar:
Career 1. Usually attained through formal education 2. May be linked to an individual’s purpose 3. Is built over time through different jobs, roles and experiences as well as continuing education 4. Accompanied by financial wages 5. One may retire from a career
Motherhood: 1. Special call of God for women 2. Usually characterized by birth children or adoptive children 3. 24/7 service 4. Requires nurturing, teaching, counseling, correcting, instructing etc on all facets of life spiritual, emotional, psychological, physical 5. No financial dividends 6. Positive impact on Children and family is priceless 7. There is no retirement
Both
1. May lead to tiredness and exhaustion 2. Requires commitment 3. Requires patience to see growth 4. Requires intentionality in cultivation and building. The reason for including this into this week’s 4M’s is to encourage single sisters to seriously think about their future plans as far as marriage, motherhood and career – where do you see yourself after marriage and having children? Are you strictly called to the home or are you called to the corporate or working world and your home? Both callings require intentional planning and partnership with your spouse. Also, it’s important to think about child care – who will take care of your children when you are at work as a career woman? What is your desire for child care? For some, DayCare and babysitting may not be an option so think about these things and communicate them openly with your future husband. Pray along as well for God’s perfect leading in all these things.
I hope that you’re inspired by the
4 M’s this week!
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With love,
Mrs. Charity Umar ❤️