What will you be doing today? Will you be going to work? Attending school? Running errands?Whatever you will be doing today, please drop by here, I got something for good reflections.
No greater cause for thankfulness do I have than these things, that I should be hearing that my children go on walking in the truth.(3 John 4)
Being a family head in this wicked world is a challenge. Satan and his demons endeavor to destroy the spiritality of God's servants.Moreover, there are a lot of pressure on you, parents, especially on single parents.It is difficult to find the time you wanted to do.But it is worth the effort, even if you can only apply one suggestion /advice at a time to improve your family get together towards God.
Seeing those who walk loyally towards God' way is a heartwarming reward. To walk succesfully in God's way together family members need to find joy in family bible study, going to mass(spiritual reunions)and share in "evangelising" work. For that to be true,preparation is required- preparation that builds up the heart and that equips each one to have a meaningful share.
How do you feed your family spiritually?
Sunday, November 26, 2006
Monday, November 20, 2006
More experiences
I went out again with Michel to "evangelize". I enjoyed it, the weather in Nice beach area was good, 20° so why stay at home?
1. A lady passed by in front of our magazine stand and looked. She left after a few seconds. She dropped her scarf while walking away and Michel called her. She heard him but she didnt look back. Michel called again, Madame, s'il vous plait (if you please) still she didnt bother. When Michel mentioned: your scarf, Madame, she stopped looked back smile apologitically...
2. Michel said Bonjour( hello/good day) to a couple. The husband said: Jehovah's Witness? Noooo! He continued his walk. Michel said: Monsiuer, I just said Hello...
The wife smiled back, get the idea that her husband is impolite.
3. A black lady passed by, look in our display and held the book: what the bible really teaches
(qu'ensiegne réellement la bible).She was interested that I said to her, she can have the book for free. She said: does it matter? I am a protestant. I told her: its is alright, take it, as my gift for you. She was happy. She said to Michel, you and your wife are both courageous to do this type of work .I cant have your courage, althoug I would like to do the same.
We told her, we work for our God Jehovah , so there's no shame in that,and He is your God too. Thats His name.
She continued discussing with us , she said she is a teacher in a university in Nice and she read the Bible (as she is a protestant) but she wants to know how Jehovah's Witnesses view the Bible. She gave us her phone number and we gave ours...
4. A man in harley davidson jacket joked at us: "I wonder what God would do to us if we dont pay our taxes, as its month again to pay taxes in France? What do you think?" Michel got his idea that he was talking about Mitterand, as joked as a God of France in one of the newspaper, lol! We just laugh him off and he said bye bye.
What can we do with people like that ey?
Thats all for today, keep visiting, there will be more...
1. A lady passed by in front of our magazine stand and looked. She left after a few seconds. She dropped her scarf while walking away and Michel called her. She heard him but she didnt look back. Michel called again, Madame, s'il vous plait (if you please) still she didnt bother. When Michel mentioned: your scarf, Madame, she stopped looked back smile apologitically...
2. Michel said Bonjour( hello/good day) to a couple. The husband said: Jehovah's Witness? Noooo! He continued his walk. Michel said: Monsiuer, I just said Hello...
The wife smiled back, get the idea that her husband is impolite.
3. A black lady passed by, look in our display and held the book: what the bible really teaches
(qu'ensiegne réellement la bible).She was interested that I said to her, she can have the book for free. She said: does it matter? I am a protestant. I told her: its is alright, take it, as my gift for you. She was happy. She said to Michel, you and your wife are both courageous to do this type of work .I cant have your courage, althoug I would like to do the same.We told her, we work for our God Jehovah , so there's no shame in that,and He is your God too. Thats His name.
She continued discussing with us , she said she is a teacher in a university in Nice and she read the Bible (as she is a protestant) but she wants to know how Jehovah's Witnesses view the Bible. She gave us her phone number and we gave ours...
4. A man in harley davidson jacket joked at us: "I wonder what God would do to us if we dont pay our taxes, as its month again to pay taxes in France? What do you think?" Michel got his idea that he was talking about Mitterand, as joked as a God of France in one of the newspaper, lol! We just laugh him off and he said bye bye.
What can we do with people like that ey?
Thats all for today, keep visiting, there will be more...
experiences
I went out for "evangelising" again because I dont work today Nov.19 as it is holiday in Monaco, Montecarlo.Here are some of our amusing experience again.
1.I was with a co JW and we had our mobile stand of displayed magasines. Two Arab boys stopped and looked and said: "Can I have this magazine? This is my language." I said," yes, with pleasure." Then he said, "Olahhh, this is arabic but not my language!" So I proposeD another ARABIC magazine, he read it, explaining in french, but still was not convince it is his language.So I said, must be the same with my country, there are lots of languages, hein? He then ask for french language magazine and I gave him:
PORNOGRAPHY, How damaging it is? lol!
He laughed and took it still. Michel and another JW was smiling, because of all the magazines in our display, why that??? I didnt think about it, you see, hehe.
2.An old man stopped, looked at our magazines display, and asked to have a sit. We offered him our place, and he said, "it is tiring to walk now a days. I have to go to an office but I need to recuperate, as my legs hurts..."
We encouraged him to stay with us and discussed a bit. And later we adviced him,if he can, he just follow a beautiful blond to keep him going...
The old man really laugh, LOL
3.A beggar approached us and asked for some coins. He said he wanted to have some coffee to warm him. So a JW brother gave him one euro and the beggar said :"thanks, it can buy him a stick of cigarette!" The JW (brother) took back the coin from the beggar, LOL
The beggar curse us badly, calling us names! The brother still didnt gave back the 1€.
Eh , we dont encourage someone to smoke, you see, so to hear he will buy a stick of cigarette with our coin, hehe, its not possible! ! !
4.A tourist went out from a hotel and asked us :"where he can find a sex shop." Ngek!
Of all tourists spots in Nice, he wanted a sex shop!!! I wanted to tell him the direction (ever helpful me, hehe, as we always passed it by when going home) but Michel told him, sorry Sir, we are not supposed to encourage it... You may ask the information desk of the hotel...
Today, for four hours, we placed one book (family happiness) and 6 magazines for free...I am happy than staying home or go shopping...
to be continued...
Saturday, November 18, 2006
Funny experiences as a Witness
Michel and I went to a dinner (just some pizza)with 7 French friends last night. We are all Jehovah's Witnesses. It was all fun, because we discussed(in french language) our experiences as a witness.I posted it all here in english for everyone to understand, hehe.
Here they are:
Me: (me first, ako bida eh, hehe) I rang the bell, and the lady answered :"just come up, third floor please." So I did. When me and a sister(co JW) were up, the lady said: "Oh I thought you are the taxi we are waiting...We are catching a flight back home to UK."
Ngek.
1. "I studied the Bible with an old lady. She likes it, happy to continue . After an hour, she told me, "I got to go, I got to go. You may come back tomorrow, because I got to go to my Church." When I asked her why she is eager to study the Bible with me then,if she had to go to her church? She said, "Oh because our priest told us to read our bible, and understand it."
(hehehehe...)
2. I was assigned to introduce the speaker for the Public talk during our meeting. I did not know who will give the Public Talk, so I read the program of the week and when the time to announce it,I said:
"Good morning, brothers and sisters, we are now to present to you our Public Speaker for today, Brother Smiths, and his talk is entitled: The Beasts in the Book of Revelation...Brother Smiths shouted: "NOOOOoooo!" its not my talk... Mine is: "The End of the False Religion..."
I didnt know, they changed the speaker that day, LOL
3. "Me and a brother JW, rang the door bell. The man welcomed us. Introduce himself as the consul of Bulgaria! ! !"lol!
One never knows whom one meets eh? I wish I met a Prince, one day, hehe
4. "I was with a brother in England, and when we rang the doorbell, the gate opened and here comes a Labrador (puppy) running to get out, while the Master screamed: "Stop my dog, stop my dog!" The brother , fall into the ground while grabbing the dog(in his coat and tie, lol) and the owner was happy and lets us in and even served us some hot tea, LOL
5. "I am always late to go to our meeting (mass) at 5:30 pm Saturday because of work. When I arrived, the meeting started already and public talk is about Satan, the devil. I was walking towards the front row,to find a seat, when the brother giving the talk said: "Remember, my brothers and sisters, Satan is always everywhere like a roving lion ready to devour us. And think of it, like he just arrived, now, in the middle of the room..."
The talk seems pointed at her, LOL we end up laughing in tears, lol
more true anecdotes tomorrow...
Here they are:
Me: (me first, ako bida eh, hehe) I rang the bell, and the lady answered :"just come up, third floor please." So I did. When me and a sister(co JW) were up, the lady said: "Oh I thought you are the taxi we are waiting...We are catching a flight back home to UK."
Ngek.
1. "I studied the Bible with an old lady. She likes it, happy to continue . After an hour, she told me, "I got to go, I got to go. You may come back tomorrow, because I got to go to my Church." When I asked her why she is eager to study the Bible with me then,if she had to go to her church? She said, "Oh because our priest told us to read our bible, and understand it."
(hehehehe...)
2. I was assigned to introduce the speaker for the Public talk during our meeting. I did not know who will give the Public Talk, so I read the program of the week and when the time to announce it,I said:
"Good morning, brothers and sisters, we are now to present to you our Public Speaker for today, Brother Smiths, and his talk is entitled: The Beasts in the Book of Revelation...Brother Smiths shouted: "NOOOOoooo!" its not my talk... Mine is: "The End of the False Religion..."
I didnt know, they changed the speaker that day, LOL
3. "Me and a brother JW, rang the door bell. The man welcomed us. Introduce himself as the consul of Bulgaria! ! !"lol!
One never knows whom one meets eh? I wish I met a Prince, one day, hehe
4. "I was with a brother in England, and when we rang the doorbell, the gate opened and here comes a Labrador (puppy) running to get out, while the Master screamed: "Stop my dog, stop my dog!" The brother , fall into the ground while grabbing the dog(in his coat and tie, lol) and the owner was happy and lets us in and even served us some hot tea, LOL
5. "I am always late to go to our meeting (mass) at 5:30 pm Saturday because of work. When I arrived, the meeting started already and public talk is about Satan, the devil. I was walking towards the front row,to find a seat, when the brother giving the talk said: "Remember, my brothers and sisters, Satan is always everywhere like a roving lion ready to devour us. And think of it, like he just arrived, now, in the middle of the room..."
The talk seems pointed at her, LOL we end up laughing in tears, lol
more true anecdotes tomorrow...
Saturday, October 28, 2006
Bonjour!
in exchange of Butler stories, I created this blog. Topics are all useful in everyday life. Please post comments after each topic that interests you. Welcome!
(et merci!)wink.
(et merci!)wink.
Motives of our Hearts
As the body without spirit is dead, so also faith without works is dead.—Jas. 2:26.
Even though works alone cannot save us, they are necessary. That is why Christians are described as “zealous for fine works” and why they are encouraged to “consider one another to incite to love and fine works.” (Titus 2:14; Heb. 10:24) Important though the good works themselves may be, the motives for doing them are even more important. It is therefore wise for us to check our motives from time to time. Since no human can accurately know the motives of others, however, we must beware of judging others. “Who are you to judge the house servant of another?” we are asked, with the obvious answer: “To his own master he stands or falls.” (Rom. 14:4) Jehovah, the Master of all, and his appointed Judge, Christ Jesus, will judge us, not on the basis of our works alone but also on the basis of our motives, our opportunities, our love, and our devotion.
Aray,may tama ako don ah!(ouch, it strikes me too...)
Even though works alone cannot save us, they are necessary. That is why Christians are described as “zealous for fine works” and why they are encouraged to “consider one another to incite to love and fine works.” (Titus 2:14; Heb. 10:24) Important though the good works themselves may be, the motives for doing them are even more important. It is therefore wise for us to check our motives from time to time. Since no human can accurately know the motives of others, however, we must beware of judging others. “Who are you to judge the house servant of another?” we are asked, with the obvious answer: “To his own master he stands or falls.” (Rom. 14:4) Jehovah, the Master of all, and his appointed Judge, Christ Jesus, will judge us, not on the basis of our works alone but also on the basis of our motives, our opportunities, our love, and our devotion.
Aray,may tama ako don ah!(ouch, it strikes me too...)
Riches
Though he was rich he became poor for your sakes, that you might become rich through his poverty.—2 Cor. 8:9.
Although materially poor, Jesus opened the door for humble individuals to enjoy everlasting life in perfection. How grateful we are to him! And how we rejoice in the reward he received because he kept his focus on doing God’s will! (Ps. 40:8; Acts 2:32, 33, 36) Christians who today strive to imitate Jesus also refuse to be distracted by the pursuit of wealth. (1 Tim. 6:9, 10) They acknowledge that riches can make life comfortable, but they know that wealth does nothing for their everlasting future. When a Christian dies, his material wealth is of no more value to him than Jesus’ garment was to him when he died. (Eccl. 2:10, 11, 17-19; 7:12) When a Christian dies, the only thing of real value that he possesses is his relationship with Jehovah and with Jesus Christ.—Matt. 6:19-21; Luke 16:9
You may check your bible girls, it talks about the riches that do not rust,no moth and flies can destroy,no one can steal ata yon?
Although materially poor, Jesus opened the door for humble individuals to enjoy everlasting life in perfection. How grateful we are to him! And how we rejoice in the reward he received because he kept his focus on doing God’s will! (Ps. 40:8; Acts 2:32, 33, 36) Christians who today strive to imitate Jesus also refuse to be distracted by the pursuit of wealth. (1 Tim. 6:9, 10) They acknowledge that riches can make life comfortable, but they know that wealth does nothing for their everlasting future. When a Christian dies, his material wealth is of no more value to him than Jesus’ garment was to him when he died. (Eccl. 2:10, 11, 17-19; 7:12) When a Christian dies, the only thing of real value that he possesses is his relationship with Jehovah and with Jesus Christ.—Matt. 6:19-21; Luke 16:9
You may check your bible girls, it talks about the riches that do not rust,no moth and flies can destroy,no one can steal ata yon?
Marriage vows
The eyes of Jehovah God are upon the righteous ones, and His ears are toward their supplication.—1 Pet. 3:12.
Today, many things can strain the marriage bond. Some men fail to assume their responsibilities. Some women refuse to accept the headship of their husbands. In some marriages, one spouse is abused by the other. For Christians, economic stresses, human imperfection, and the spirit of the world with its immorality and distorted sense of values can test loyalties. Still, Christian men and women who follow Bible principles, whatever their situation, receive Jehovah’s blessing. Even if only one partner in a marriage applies Bible principles, things are better than if neither did. Moreover, Jehovah loves and supports his servants who remain faithful to their marriage vows even in difficult situations. He does not forget their loyalty.—Ps. 18:25; Heb. 6:10.
Hirap ng may problems in the family, haaaay...
Today, many things can strain the marriage bond. Some men fail to assume their responsibilities. Some women refuse to accept the headship of their husbands. In some marriages, one spouse is abused by the other. For Christians, economic stresses, human imperfection, and the spirit of the world with its immorality and distorted sense of values can test loyalties. Still, Christian men and women who follow Bible principles, whatever their situation, receive Jehovah’s blessing. Even if only one partner in a marriage applies Bible principles, things are better than if neither did. Moreover, Jehovah loves and supports his servants who remain faithful to their marriage vows even in difficult situations. He does not forget their loyalty.—Ps. 18:25; Heb. 6:10.
Hirap ng may problems in the family, haaaay...
Confidence
This is the confidence that we have toward Him, that, no matter what it is that we ask according to His will, He hears us.—1 John 5:14.
Our prayers must be accompanied by a sense of confidence, or trust, in Jehovah God, the Supreme Being, the only true and almighty God. He gives special attention to the earnest prayers of his worshipers. Just knowing that is comforting. (Phil. 4:6) Faithful Christians should never feel shy, unworthy, or lacking in confidence when approaching Jehovah in prayer. True, when we are disappointed in ourselves or are overwhelmed with problems, we might not always be inclined to approach Jehovah in prayer. On such occasions we do well to remember that Jehovah “shows pity upon his own afflicted ones” and that he “comforts those laid low.” (Isa. 49:13; 2 Cor. 7:6) It is especially in times of anguish and distress that we need to turn confidently to our heavenly Father (troughh His Son Jesus Christ) as our fortress.
Yon na!
Our prayers must be accompanied by a sense of confidence, or trust, in Jehovah God, the Supreme Being, the only true and almighty God. He gives special attention to the earnest prayers of his worshipers. Just knowing that is comforting. (Phil. 4:6) Faithful Christians should never feel shy, unworthy, or lacking in confidence when approaching Jehovah in prayer. True, when we are disappointed in ourselves or are overwhelmed with problems, we might not always be inclined to approach Jehovah in prayer. On such occasions we do well to remember that Jehovah “shows pity upon his own afflicted ones” and that he “comforts those laid low.” (Isa. 49:13; 2 Cor. 7:6) It is especially in times of anguish and distress that we need to turn confidently to our heavenly Father (troughh His Son Jesus Christ) as our fortress.
Yon na!
Wrong Picture
Jehovah God is righteous in all his ways.—Ps. 145:17.
Has someone ever drawn the wrong conclusion about you, perhaps questioning your actions or motives, without having all the facts? If so, you likely felt hurt—and understandably so. From this, we can learn an important lesson: It is wise to avoid jumping to conclusions when we do not have the whole picture. We do well to keep this lesson in mind when it comes to reaching conclusions about Jehovah God. Why is that? Because there are certain Bible accounts that may at first seem puzzling. These accounts—perhaps about the actions of some of God’s worshipers or God’s past judgments—may not contain enough details to answer all our questions. Sadly, some take exception to such accounts, even questioning whether God is righteous and just. Yet, his Word assures us that he “does not act wickedly.” (Job 34:12; Ps. 37:28) Imagine, then, how he must feel when others draw wrong conclusions about him!
Right?
Has someone ever drawn the wrong conclusion about you, perhaps questioning your actions or motives, without having all the facts? If so, you likely felt hurt—and understandably so. From this, we can learn an important lesson: It is wise to avoid jumping to conclusions when we do not have the whole picture. We do well to keep this lesson in mind when it comes to reaching conclusions about Jehovah God. Why is that? Because there are certain Bible accounts that may at first seem puzzling. These accounts—perhaps about the actions of some of God’s worshipers or God’s past judgments—may not contain enough details to answer all our questions. Sadly, some take exception to such accounts, even questioning whether God is righteous and just. Yet, his Word assures us that he “does not act wickedly.” (Job 34:12; Ps. 37:28) Imagine, then, how he must feel when others draw wrong conclusions about him!
Right?
Thursday, October 26, 2006
The Thief
Thoughts of the day:
The thief does not come unless it is to steal and slay and destroy.—John 10:10.
Genesis 3:1-5 describes how ‘the voice of a stranger’ was heard on earth for the first time. Granted, in this account Satan is not literally termed “a stranger.” Nevertheless, his actions show that in many ways he was like the stranger described in Jesus’ illustration recorded in John chapter 10. Jesus states that the stranger approaches his victims in the sheepfold in a roundabout way. Likewise, Satan approached his victim indirectly, using a serpent. This sly approach exposed Satan for what he really is—a devious intruder. Further, the stranger in the sheepfold sets out to rob the rightful owner of his sheep. In fact, he is worse than a thief, for his aim is also to “slay and destroy.” Similarly, Satan was a thief. Deceiving Eve, he stole her allegiance from God. Moreover, Satan also brought death to humans. Hence, he is a murderer.
Olaah!
The thief does not come unless it is to steal and slay and destroy.—John 10:10.
Genesis 3:1-5 describes how ‘the voice of a stranger’ was heard on earth for the first time. Granted, in this account Satan is not literally termed “a stranger.” Nevertheless, his actions show that in many ways he was like the stranger described in Jesus’ illustration recorded in John chapter 10. Jesus states that the stranger approaches his victims in the sheepfold in a roundabout way. Likewise, Satan approached his victim indirectly, using a serpent. This sly approach exposed Satan for what he really is—a devious intruder. Further, the stranger in the sheepfold sets out to rob the rightful owner of his sheep. In fact, he is worse than a thief, for his aim is also to “slay and destroy.” Similarly, Satan was a thief. Deceiving Eve, he stole her allegiance from God. Moreover, Satan also brought death to humans. Hence, he is a murderer.
Olaah!
Sunday, June 18, 2006
Oppositions
girls, what do you think about us?
And what do you think about how the internet view us?
How they think about us
It reminds me how nasty people can be to Noah and his family in the book of Geneses, in the Bible up to how people mocked and put Jesus to death and his disciples when they did the preaching (ministry) work.
I was happy, I do not encounter such violence.
Yet.
And what do you think about how the internet view us?
How they think about us
It reminds me how nasty people can be to Noah and his family in the book of Geneses, in the Bible up to how people mocked and put Jesus to death and his disciples when they did the preaching (ministry) work.
I was happy, I do not encounter such violence.
Yet.
Sunday, April 30, 2006
How You Can Find Out What God Requires
What important information is contained in the Bible? (1)
Who is the Bible's author? (2)
Why should you study the Bible? (3)
1. The Bible is a precious gift from God. It is like a letter from a loving father to his children. It tells us the truth about God—who he is and what he stands for. It explains how to cope with problems and how to find true happiness. The Bible alone tells us what we must do to please God.—Psalm 1:1-3; Isaiah 48:17, 18.
2. The Bible was written by some 40 different men over a period of 1,600 years, beginning in 1513 B.C.E. It is made up of 66 little books. Those who wrote the Bible were inspired by God. They wrote his thoughts, not their own. So God in heaven, not any human on earth, is the Author of the Bible.—2 Timothy 3:16, 17; 2 Peter 1:20, 21.
3. God made sure that the Bible was accurately copied and preserved. More Bibles have been printed than any other book. Not everyone will be happy to see you studying the Bible, but do not let that stop you. Your eternal future depends on your getting to know God and doing his will despite any opposition.—Matthew 5:10-12; John 17:3.
If interested, please continue reading next topic,if have comments, please use comments box.
Francesca
Published in 1996
Copyright © 2004 Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania. All rights reserved.
Who is the Bible's author? (2)
Why should you study the Bible? (3)
1. The Bible is a precious gift from God. It is like a letter from a loving father to his children. It tells us the truth about God—who he is and what he stands for. It explains how to cope with problems and how to find true happiness. The Bible alone tells us what we must do to please God.—Psalm 1:1-3; Isaiah 48:17, 18.
2. The Bible was written by some 40 different men over a period of 1,600 years, beginning in 1513 B.C.E. It is made up of 66 little books. Those who wrote the Bible were inspired by God. They wrote his thoughts, not their own. So God in heaven, not any human on earth, is the Author of the Bible.—2 Timothy 3:16, 17; 2 Peter 1:20, 21.
3. God made sure that the Bible was accurately copied and preserved. More Bibles have been printed than any other book. Not everyone will be happy to see you studying the Bible, but do not let that stop you. Your eternal future depends on your getting to know God and doing his will despite any opposition.—Matthew 5:10-12; John 17:3.
If interested, please continue reading next topic,if have comments, please use comments box.
Francesca
Published in 1996
Copyright © 2004 Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania. All rights reserved.
Beliefs and Customs That Displease God
What kind of beliefs and customs are wrong? (1)
Should Christians believe that God is a Trinity? (2)
Why do true Christians not celebrate Christmas, Easter, or birthdays? (3, 4)
Can the dead harm the living? (5) Did Jesus die on a cross? (6)
How important is it to please God? (7)
1. Not all beliefs and customs are bad. But God does not approve of them if they come from false religion or are against Bible teachings.—Matthew 15:6.
2. Trinity: Is Jehovah a Trinity—three persons in one God? No! Jehovah, the Father, is "the only true God." (John 17:3; Mark 12:29) Jesus is His firstborn Son, and he is subject to God. (1 Corinthians 11:3) The Father is greater than the Son. (John 14:28) The holy spirit is not a person; it is God's active force.—Genesis 1:2; Acts 2:18.
3. Christmas and Easter: Jesus was not born on December 25. He was born about October 1, a time of year when shepherds kept their flocks out-of-doors at night. (Luke 2:8-12) Jesus never commanded Christians to celebrate his birth. Rather, he told his disciples to memorialize, or remember, his death. (Luke 22:19, 20) Christmas and its customs come from ancient false religions. The same is true of Easter customs, such as the use of eggs and rabbits. The early Christians did not celebrate Christmas or Easter, nor do true Christians today.
4. Birthdays: The only two birthday celebrations spoken of in the Bible were held by persons who did not worship Jehovah. (Genesis 40:20-22; Mark 6:21, 22, 24-27) The early Christians did not celebrate birthdays. The custom of celebrating birthdays comes from ancient false religions. True Christians give gifts and have good times together at other times during the year.
5. Fear of the Dead: The dead cannot do anything or feel anything. We cannot help them, and they cannot hurt us. (Psalm 146:4; Ecclesiastes 9:5, 10) The soul dies; it does not live on after death. (Ezekiel 18:4) But sometimes wicked angels, called demons, pretend to be the spirits of the dead. Any customs that have to do with fear of or worship of the dead are wrong.—Isaiah 8:19.
6. Cross: Jesus did not die on a cross. He died on a pole, or a stake. The Greek word translated "cross" in many Bibles meant just one piece of timber. The symbol of the cross comes from ancient false religions. The cross was not used or worshiped by the early Christians. Therefore, do you think it would be right to use a cross in worship?—Deuteronomy 7:26; 1 Corinthians 10:14.
7. It may be very hard to abandon some of these beliefs and customs. Relatives and friends may try to convince you not to change your beliefs. But pleasing God is more important than pleasing men.—Proverbs 29:25; Matthew 10:36, 37.
please use comments box for questions or ideas about this topic.
Francesca
Published in 1996
Copyright © 2004 Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania. All rights reserved.
Should Christians believe that God is a Trinity? (2)
Why do true Christians not celebrate Christmas, Easter, or birthdays? (3, 4)
Can the dead harm the living? (5) Did Jesus die on a cross? (6)
How important is it to please God? (7)
1. Not all beliefs and customs are bad. But God does not approve of them if they come from false religion or are against Bible teachings.—Matthew 15:6.
2. Trinity: Is Jehovah a Trinity—three persons in one God? No! Jehovah, the Father, is "the only true God." (John 17:3; Mark 12:29) Jesus is His firstborn Son, and he is subject to God. (1 Corinthians 11:3) The Father is greater than the Son. (John 14:28) The holy spirit is not a person; it is God's active force.—Genesis 1:2; Acts 2:18.
3. Christmas and Easter: Jesus was not born on December 25. He was born about October 1, a time of year when shepherds kept their flocks out-of-doors at night. (Luke 2:8-12) Jesus never commanded Christians to celebrate his birth. Rather, he told his disciples to memorialize, or remember, his death. (Luke 22:19, 20) Christmas and its customs come from ancient false religions. The same is true of Easter customs, such as the use of eggs and rabbits. The early Christians did not celebrate Christmas or Easter, nor do true Christians today.
4. Birthdays: The only two birthday celebrations spoken of in the Bible were held by persons who did not worship Jehovah. (Genesis 40:20-22; Mark 6:21, 22, 24-27) The early Christians did not celebrate birthdays. The custom of celebrating birthdays comes from ancient false religions. True Christians give gifts and have good times together at other times during the year.
5. Fear of the Dead: The dead cannot do anything or feel anything. We cannot help them, and they cannot hurt us. (Psalm 146:4; Ecclesiastes 9:5, 10) The soul dies; it does not live on after death. (Ezekiel 18:4) But sometimes wicked angels, called demons, pretend to be the spirits of the dead. Any customs that have to do with fear of or worship of the dead are wrong.—Isaiah 8:19.
6. Cross: Jesus did not die on a cross. He died on a pole, or a stake. The Greek word translated "cross" in many Bibles meant just one piece of timber. The symbol of the cross comes from ancient false religions. The cross was not used or worshiped by the early Christians. Therefore, do you think it would be right to use a cross in worship?—Deuteronomy 7:26; 1 Corinthians 10:14.
7. It may be very hard to abandon some of these beliefs and customs. Relatives and friends may try to convince you not to change your beliefs. But pleasing God is more important than pleasing men.—Proverbs 29:25; Matthew 10:36, 37.
please use comments box for questions or ideas about this topic.
Francesca
Published in 1996
Copyright © 2004 Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania. All rights reserved.
Practices That God Hates
How should you feel about things that God says are bad? (1)
What kinds of sexual conduct are wrong? (2)
How should a Christian view lying? (3) gambling? (3) stealing? (3) violence? (4)
spiritism? (5) drunkenness? (6)
How can a person break free from bad practices? (7)
1. Servants of God love what is good. But they must also learn to hate what is bad. (Psalm 97:10) That means avoiding certain practices that God hates. What are some of those practices?
2. Fornication: Sex before marriage, adultery, bestiality, incest, and homosexuality are all serious sins against God. (Leviticus 18:6; Romans 1:26, 27; 1 Corinthians 6:9, 10) If a couple are not married but are living together, they should separate or else get legally married.—Hebrews 13:4.
3. Lying, Gambling, Stealing: Jehovah God cannot lie. (Titus 1:2) Persons who want his approval must avoid lying. (Proverbs 6:16-19; Colossians 3:9, 10) Every form of gambling is tainted by greed. So Christians do not take part in any kind of gambling, such as lotteries, horse racing, and bingo. (Ephesians 5:3-5) And Christians do not steal. They do not knowingly buy stolen property or take things without permission.—Exodus 20:15; Ephesians 4:28.
4. Fits of Anger, Violence: Uncontrolled anger can lead to acts of violence. (Genesis 4:5-8) A violent person cannot be God's friend. (Psalm 11:5; Proverbs 22:24, 25) It is wrong to take revenge or to return evil for the bad things that others might do to us.—Proverbs 24:29; Romans 12:17-21.
5. Magical Spells and Spiritism: Some people call on the power of the spirits to try to heal sicknesses. Others cast spells on their enemies to make them sick or even to kill them. The power behind all these practices is Satan. So Christians must not take part in any of them. (Deuteronomy 18:9-13) Staying close to Jehovah is the best protection from spells that may be cast on us by others.—Proverbs 18:10.
6. Drunkenness: It is not wrong to drink a little wine, beer, or other alcoholic beverage. (Psalm 104:15; 1 Timothy 5:23) But heavy drinking and drunkenness are wrong in God's eyes. (1 Corinthians 5:11-13; 1 Timothy 3:8) Drinking too much can ruin your health and disrupt your family. It can also cause you to give in very quickly to other temptations.—Proverbs 23:20, 21, 29-35.
7. Persons who practice things that God says are bad will "not inherit God's kingdom." (Galatians 5:19-21) If you really love God and want to please him, you can break free from these practices. (1 John 5:3) Learn to hate what God says is bad. (Romans 12:9) Associate with people who have godly habits. (Proverbs 13:20) Mature Christian companions may prove to be a source of help. (James 5:14) Above all, rely on God's help through prayer.—Philippians 4:6, 7, 13.
please use comments box for questions or ideas about this topic.
Francesca
Published in 1996
Copyright © 2004 Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania. All rights reserved.
What kinds of sexual conduct are wrong? (2)
How should a Christian view lying? (3) gambling? (3) stealing? (3) violence? (4)
spiritism? (5) drunkenness? (6)
How can a person break free from bad practices? (7)
1. Servants of God love what is good. But they must also learn to hate what is bad. (Psalm 97:10) That means avoiding certain practices that God hates. What are some of those practices?
2. Fornication: Sex before marriage, adultery, bestiality, incest, and homosexuality are all serious sins against God. (Leviticus 18:6; Romans 1:26, 27; 1 Corinthians 6:9, 10) If a couple are not married but are living together, they should separate or else get legally married.—Hebrews 13:4.
3. Lying, Gambling, Stealing: Jehovah God cannot lie. (Titus 1:2) Persons who want his approval must avoid lying. (Proverbs 6:16-19; Colossians 3:9, 10) Every form of gambling is tainted by greed. So Christians do not take part in any kind of gambling, such as lotteries, horse racing, and bingo. (Ephesians 5:3-5) And Christians do not steal. They do not knowingly buy stolen property or take things without permission.—Exodus 20:15; Ephesians 4:28.
4. Fits of Anger, Violence: Uncontrolled anger can lead to acts of violence. (Genesis 4:5-8) A violent person cannot be God's friend. (Psalm 11:5; Proverbs 22:24, 25) It is wrong to take revenge or to return evil for the bad things that others might do to us.—Proverbs 24:29; Romans 12:17-21.
5. Magical Spells and Spiritism: Some people call on the power of the spirits to try to heal sicknesses. Others cast spells on their enemies to make them sick or even to kill them. The power behind all these practices is Satan. So Christians must not take part in any of them. (Deuteronomy 18:9-13) Staying close to Jehovah is the best protection from spells that may be cast on us by others.—Proverbs 18:10.
6. Drunkenness: It is not wrong to drink a little wine, beer, or other alcoholic beverage. (Psalm 104:15; 1 Timothy 5:23) But heavy drinking and drunkenness are wrong in God's eyes. (1 Corinthians 5:11-13; 1 Timothy 3:8) Drinking too much can ruin your health and disrupt your family. It can also cause you to give in very quickly to other temptations.—Proverbs 23:20, 21, 29-35.
7. Persons who practice things that God says are bad will "not inherit God's kingdom." (Galatians 5:19-21) If you really love God and want to please him, you can break free from these practices. (1 John 5:3) Learn to hate what God says is bad. (Romans 12:9) Associate with people who have godly habits. (Proverbs 13:20) Mature Christian companions may prove to be a source of help. (James 5:14) Above all, rely on God's help through prayer.—Philippians 4:6, 7, 13.
please use comments box for questions or ideas about this topic.
Francesca
Published in 1996
Copyright © 2004 Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania. All rights reserved.
WHO IS THE DEVIL?
Satan the Devil—where did he come from? (1, 2)
How does Satan mislead people? (3-7)
Why should you resist the Devil? (7)
1. The word "devil" means someone who tells wicked lies about another person. "Satan" means an enemy or an opposer. These are terms given to God's chief enemy. At first, he was a perfect angel in heaven with God. However, he later thought too much of himself and wanted the worship that rightly belongs to God.—Matthew 4:8-10.
2. This angel, Satan, spoke to Eve by means of a snake. By telling her lies, he got her to disobey God. Satan thus attacked what is called God's "sovereignty," or position as the Most High. Satan questioned whether God rules in a worthy way and in the best interests of His subjects. Satan also brought into question whether any human would remain loyal to God. By doing this, Satan made himself God's enemy. That is why he came to be called Satan the Devil.—Genesis 3:1-5; Job 1:8-11; Revelation 12:9.
3. Satan tries to trick people into worshiping him. (2 Corinthians 11:3, 14) One way he misleads people is through false religion. If a religion teaches lies about God, it really serves the purpose of Satan. (John 8:44) People who are members of false religions may sincerely believe that they are worshiping the true God. But they are really serving Satan. He is 'the god of this world.'—2 Corinthians 4:4. False religion, spiritism,
and nationalism mislead people
4. Spiritism is another way Satan brings people under his power. They may call upon spirits to protect them, to harm others, to foretell the future, or to perform miracles. Satan is the wicked force behind all these practices. To please God, we must have nothing to do with spiritism.—Deuteronomy 18:10-12; Acts 19:18, 19.
5. Satan also misleads people through extreme pride of race and the worship of political organizations. Some feel that their nation or race is better than others. But this is not true. (Acts 10:34, 35) Other people look to political organizations to solve man's problems. By doing this, they are rejecting God's Kingdom. It is the only solution for our problems.—Daniel 2:44.
6. Another way Satan misleads people is by tempting them with sinful desires. Jehovah tells us to avoid sinful practices because he knows they will harm us. (Galatians 6:7, 8) Some people may want you to join them in such practices. Remember, though, it is really Satan who wants you to do these things.—1 Corinthians 6:9, 10; 15:33.
7. Satan may use persecution or opposition to get you to leave Jehovah. Some of your loved ones may become very angry because you are studying the Bible. Others may make fun of you. But to whom do you owe your life? Satan wants to frighten you so that you will stop learning about Jehovah. Do not let Satan win! (Matthew 10:34-39; 1 Peter 5:8, 9) By resisting the Devil, you can make Jehovah happy and show that you uphold His sovereignty.—Proverbs 27:11.
please use your bible to compare, and post any comments, questions and your ideas about this topic.
Francesca
Published in 1996
Copyright © 2004 Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania. All rights reserved.
How does Satan mislead people? (3-7)
Why should you resist the Devil? (7)
1. The word "devil" means someone who tells wicked lies about another person. "Satan" means an enemy or an opposer. These are terms given to God's chief enemy. At first, he was a perfect angel in heaven with God. However, he later thought too much of himself and wanted the worship that rightly belongs to God.—Matthew 4:8-10.
2. This angel, Satan, spoke to Eve by means of a snake. By telling her lies, he got her to disobey God. Satan thus attacked what is called God's "sovereignty," or position as the Most High. Satan questioned whether God rules in a worthy way and in the best interests of His subjects. Satan also brought into question whether any human would remain loyal to God. By doing this, Satan made himself God's enemy. That is why he came to be called Satan the Devil.—Genesis 3:1-5; Job 1:8-11; Revelation 12:9.
3. Satan tries to trick people into worshiping him. (2 Corinthians 11:3, 14) One way he misleads people is through false religion. If a religion teaches lies about God, it really serves the purpose of Satan. (John 8:44) People who are members of false religions may sincerely believe that they are worshiping the true God. But they are really serving Satan. He is 'the god of this world.'—2 Corinthians 4:4. False religion, spiritism,
and nationalism mislead people
4. Spiritism is another way Satan brings people under his power. They may call upon spirits to protect them, to harm others, to foretell the future, or to perform miracles. Satan is the wicked force behind all these practices. To please God, we must have nothing to do with spiritism.—Deuteronomy 18:10-12; Acts 19:18, 19.
5. Satan also misleads people through extreme pride of race and the worship of political organizations. Some feel that their nation or race is better than others. But this is not true. (Acts 10:34, 35) Other people look to political organizations to solve man's problems. By doing this, they are rejecting God's Kingdom. It is the only solution for our problems.—Daniel 2:44.
6. Another way Satan misleads people is by tempting them with sinful desires. Jehovah tells us to avoid sinful practices because he knows they will harm us. (Galatians 6:7, 8) Some people may want you to join them in such practices. Remember, though, it is really Satan who wants you to do these things.—1 Corinthians 6:9, 10; 15:33.
7. Satan may use persecution or opposition to get you to leave Jehovah. Some of your loved ones may become very angry because you are studying the Bible. Others may make fun of you. But to whom do you owe your life? Satan wants to frighten you so that you will stop learning about Jehovah. Do not let Satan win! (Matthew 10:34-39; 1 Peter 5:8, 9) By resisting the Devil, you can make Jehovah happy and show that you uphold His sovereignty.—Proverbs 27:11.
please use your bible to compare, and post any comments, questions and your ideas about this topic.
Francesca
Published in 1996
Copyright © 2004 Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania. All rights reserved.
WHO IS JESUS CHRIST?
Why is Jesus called God's "firstborn" Son? (1)
Why is he called "the Word"? (1)
Why did Jesus come to earth as a man? (2-4)
Why did he perform miracles? (5)
What will Jesus do in the near future? (6)
1. Jesus lived in heaven as a spirit person before he came to earth. He was God's first creation, and so he is called the "firstborn" Son of God. (Colossians 1:15; Revelation 3:14) Jesus is the only Son that God created by himself. Jehovah used the prehuman Jesus as his "master worker" in creating all other things in heaven and on earth. (Proverbs 8:22-31; Colossians 1:16, 17) God also used him as His chief spokesman. That is why Jesus is called "the Word."—John 1:1-3; Revelation 19:13.
2. God sent His Son to the earth by transferring his life to the womb of Mary. So Jesus did not have a human father. That is why he did not inherit any sin or imperfection. God sent Jesus to earth for three reasons: (1) To teach us the truth about God (John 18:37), (2) to maintain perfect integrity, providing a model for us to follow (1 Peter 2:21), and (3) to sacrifice his life to set us free from sin and death. Why was this needed?—Matthew 20:28.
3. By disobeying God's command, the first man, Adam, committed what the Bible calls "sin." So God sentenced him to death. (Genesis 3:17-19) He no longer measured up to God's standards, so he was not perfect anymore. Slowly he grew old and died. Adam passed on sin to all his children. That is why we also grow old, get sick, and die. How could mankind be saved?—Romans 3:23; 5:12.
4. Jesus was a perfect human just like Adam. Unlike Adam, though, Jesus was perfectly obedient to God under even the greatest test. He could therefore sacrifice his perfect human life to pay for Adam's sin. This is what the Bible refers to as the "ransom." Adam's children could thus be released from condemnation to death. All who put their faith in Jesus can have their sins forgiven and receive everlasting life.—1 Timothy 2:5, 6; John 3:16; Romans 5:18, 19.
5. When on earth Jesus cured the sick, fed the hungry, and calmed storms. He even raised the dead. Why did he perform miracles? (1) He felt pity for people who were suffering, and he wanted to help them. (2) His miracles proved that he was God's Son. (3) They showed what he will do for obedient mankind when he rules as King over the earth.—Matthew 14:14; Mark 2:10-12; John 5:28, 29.
6. Jesus died and was resurrected by God as a spirit creature, and he returned to heaven. (1 Peter 3:18) Since then, God has made him a King. Soon Jesus will remove all wickedness and suffering from this earth.—Psalm 37:9-11; Proverbs 2:21, 22.
You may use your own bible to compare the scriptures mentioned and please post comments , ideas or questions you feel worth posting at comments box.
Francesca
Published in 1996
Copyright © 2004 Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania. All rights reserved.
Why is he called "the Word"? (1)
Why did Jesus come to earth as a man? (2-4)
Why did he perform miracles? (5)
What will Jesus do in the near future? (6)
1. Jesus lived in heaven as a spirit person before he came to earth. He was God's first creation, and so he is called the "firstborn" Son of God. (Colossians 1:15; Revelation 3:14) Jesus is the only Son that God created by himself. Jehovah used the prehuman Jesus as his "master worker" in creating all other things in heaven and on earth. (Proverbs 8:22-31; Colossians 1:16, 17) God also used him as His chief spokesman. That is why Jesus is called "the Word."—John 1:1-3; Revelation 19:13.
2. God sent His Son to the earth by transferring his life to the womb of Mary. So Jesus did not have a human father. That is why he did not inherit any sin or imperfection. God sent Jesus to earth for three reasons: (1) To teach us the truth about God (John 18:37), (2) to maintain perfect integrity, providing a model for us to follow (1 Peter 2:21), and (3) to sacrifice his life to set us free from sin and death. Why was this needed?—Matthew 20:28.
3. By disobeying God's command, the first man, Adam, committed what the Bible calls "sin." So God sentenced him to death. (Genesis 3:17-19) He no longer measured up to God's standards, so he was not perfect anymore. Slowly he grew old and died. Adam passed on sin to all his children. That is why we also grow old, get sick, and die. How could mankind be saved?—Romans 3:23; 5:12.
4. Jesus was a perfect human just like Adam. Unlike Adam, though, Jesus was perfectly obedient to God under even the greatest test. He could therefore sacrifice his perfect human life to pay for Adam's sin. This is what the Bible refers to as the "ransom." Adam's children could thus be released from condemnation to death. All who put their faith in Jesus can have their sins forgiven and receive everlasting life.—1 Timothy 2:5, 6; John 3:16; Romans 5:18, 19.
5. When on earth Jesus cured the sick, fed the hungry, and calmed storms. He even raised the dead. Why did he perform miracles? (1) He felt pity for people who were suffering, and he wanted to help them. (2) His miracles proved that he was God's Son. (3) They showed what he will do for obedient mankind when he rules as King over the earth.—Matthew 14:14; Mark 2:10-12; John 5:28, 29.
6. Jesus died and was resurrected by God as a spirit creature, and he returned to heaven. (1 Peter 3:18) Since then, God has made him a King. Soon Jesus will remove all wickedness and suffering from this earth.—Psalm 37:9-11; Proverbs 2:21, 22.
You may use your own bible to compare the scriptures mentioned and please post comments , ideas or questions you feel worth posting at comments box.
Francesca
Published in 1996
Copyright © 2004 Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania. All rights reserved.
WHO IS GOD?
WHO IS GOD?
1. People worship many things. But the Bible tells us that there is only one TRUE God. He created everything in heaven and on earth. Because he gave us life, he is the only One we should worship.—1 Corinthians 8:5, 6; Revelation 4:11.
2. God has many titles but has only one name. That name is JEHOVAH. In most Bibles, God's name has been removed and has been replaced with the titles LORD or GOD. But when the Bible was written, the name Jehovah appeared in it some 7,000 times!—Exodus 3:15; Psalm 83:18.
3. Jehovah has a body, but it is not like ours. "God is a Spirit," says the Bible. (John 4:24) A spirit is a form of life that is much higher than ours. No human has ever seen God. Jehovah lives in heaven, but he can see all things. (Psalm 11:4, 5; John 1:18) What, though, is the holy spirit? It is not a person like God. Rather, it is God's active force.—Psalm 104:30.
4. The Bible reveals Jehovah's personality to us. It shows that his outstanding qualities are love, justice, wisdom, and power. (Deuteronomy 32:4; Job 12:13; Isaiah 40:26; 1 John 4:8) The Bible tells us that he is also merciful, kind, forgiving, generous, and patient. We, like obedient children, should try to imitate him.—Ephesians 5:1, 2.
5. Should we bow down or pray to images, pictures, or symbols in our worship? No! (Exodus 20:4, 5) Jehovah says that we must worship only him. He will not share his glory with anyone or anything else. Images have no power to help us.—Psalm 115:4-8; Isaiah 42:8.
6. How can we get to know God better? One way is by observing the things he has created and thinking deeply about what they tell us. God's creations show us that he has great power and wisdom. We see his love in all that he has made. (Psalm 19:1-6; Romans 1:20) Another way we can learn about God is by studying the Bible. In it he tells us much more about the kind of God he is. He also tells us about his purpose and what he wants us to do.—Amos 3:7; 2 Timothy 3:16, 17.
please comments, questions and your own ideas on comments box:francesca
Published in 1996
Copyright © 2004 Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania. All rights reserved.
1. People worship many things. But the Bible tells us that there is only one TRUE God. He created everything in heaven and on earth. Because he gave us life, he is the only One we should worship.—1 Corinthians 8:5, 6; Revelation 4:11.
2. God has many titles but has only one name. That name is JEHOVAH. In most Bibles, God's name has been removed and has been replaced with the titles LORD or GOD. But when the Bible was written, the name Jehovah appeared in it some 7,000 times!—Exodus 3:15; Psalm 83:18.
3. Jehovah has a body, but it is not like ours. "God is a Spirit," says the Bible. (John 4:24) A spirit is a form of life that is much higher than ours. No human has ever seen God. Jehovah lives in heaven, but he can see all things. (Psalm 11:4, 5; John 1:18) What, though, is the holy spirit? It is not a person like God. Rather, it is God's active force.—Psalm 104:30.
4. The Bible reveals Jehovah's personality to us. It shows that his outstanding qualities are love, justice, wisdom, and power. (Deuteronomy 32:4; Job 12:13; Isaiah 40:26; 1 John 4:8) The Bible tells us that he is also merciful, kind, forgiving, generous, and patient. We, like obedient children, should try to imitate him.—Ephesians 5:1, 2.
5. Should we bow down or pray to images, pictures, or symbols in our worship? No! (Exodus 20:4, 5) Jehovah says that we must worship only him. He will not share his glory with anyone or anything else. Images have no power to help us.—Psalm 115:4-8; Isaiah 42:8.
6. How can we get to know God better? One way is by observing the things he has created and thinking deeply about what they tell us. God's creations show us that he has great power and wisdom. We see his love in all that he has made. (Psalm 19:1-6; Romans 1:20) Another way we can learn about God is by studying the Bible. In it he tells us much more about the kind of God he is. He also tells us about his purpose and what he wants us to do.—Amos 3:7; 2 Timothy 3:16, 17.
please comments, questions and your own ideas on comments box:francesca
Published in 1996
Copyright © 2004 Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania. All rights reserved.
Thursday, April 06, 2006
Mothers Too Soon
in exchange of Butler stories, I created this blog. Topics are all useful in everyday life.
topic today: Mothers Too Soon
“My boyfriend was a cute guy. He had money, and we could go places and have fun. When I missed my period, I realized something was wrong. How was I to tell my mom? How could this happen to me? I was only 16 years old, and I didn’t know what to do.”—Nicole.
TODAY Nicole,* in her mid-30’s, is a confident, energetic mother of three. Her oldest child is 20 years of age. Yes, years ago she was one among millions of unmarried pregnant teens. Like other teenage mothers, she found herself lost in a morass of formidable challenges, tough decisions, and uncertain prospects.
Nicole does not often talk about the shock, the denial, the fear, the anger, and the despair that marked her late teenage years—a time when her peers worried about their clothes and school grades. Nevertheless, Nicole’s situation was not hopeless. She came from a loving family that had tried to instill high moral principles in her. Although for a while she chose to disregard those principles—and paid the consequences—later on, those same values led her to a productive and meaningful life. “Not all hope is lost” became her motto.
Unfortunately, not every teenage mother has a supportive family—or such an optimistic outlook. Many quickly find themselves trapped in a seemingly hopeless state of poverty. Some must deal with the emotional aftermath of rape and violence.
None of this bodes well for the children of teen mothers. Says the book Teen Moms—The Pain and the Promise, babies of teen mothers “tend to have lower birthweight, more childhood illnesses, more infant mortality, poorer medical care, suffer more from hunger and malnourishment; they are exposed to more violence, and have more delayed development than children born to older mothers.” Indeed, daughters of teen mothers are more likely to become teen moms themselves than are children born to older mothers.
How widespread is teen pregnancy? How can teenage mothers successfully face the challenges of raising their infants? Is there any way to help young ones avoid falling into such dire straits in the first place?
I am studying the bible since March(2006) with a filipina whom she is not a teenage mom but she got pregnant by another filipino who is already married. When she got pregnant, the man left her. The baby (a girl) is now one year old, with only one parent, her mother.
I was attached to this mother and child. They are helpless, living in an apartment whom she manage to pay from small salary, from her menial work like baby sitting, cleaning , all around house work, with her baby tagging along with her. She is not in a good condition,financially, and I met her when she was going to do her laundry at a public laundry machine. We started the study.
Hopefully,in the future, she will be strong emotionally with the encouraging words from God.
That man cannot live by bread alone, but by the word that comes from God.Meaning, she will build her confidence, that she is not alone, she have God Jehovah and His Son watching , blessing and protecting her and her daughter. I helped her build up her faith.
topic today: Mothers Too Soon
“My boyfriend was a cute guy. He had money, and we could go places and have fun. When I missed my period, I realized something was wrong. How was I to tell my mom? How could this happen to me? I was only 16 years old, and I didn’t know what to do.”—Nicole.
TODAY Nicole,* in her mid-30’s, is a confident, energetic mother of three. Her oldest child is 20 years of age. Yes, years ago she was one among millions of unmarried pregnant teens. Like other teenage mothers, she found herself lost in a morass of formidable challenges, tough decisions, and uncertain prospects.
Nicole does not often talk about the shock, the denial, the fear, the anger, and the despair that marked her late teenage years—a time when her peers worried about their clothes and school grades. Nevertheless, Nicole’s situation was not hopeless. She came from a loving family that had tried to instill high moral principles in her. Although for a while she chose to disregard those principles—and paid the consequences—later on, those same values led her to a productive and meaningful life. “Not all hope is lost” became her motto.
Unfortunately, not every teenage mother has a supportive family—or such an optimistic outlook. Many quickly find themselves trapped in a seemingly hopeless state of poverty. Some must deal with the emotional aftermath of rape and violence.
None of this bodes well for the children of teen mothers. Says the book Teen Moms—The Pain and the Promise, babies of teen mothers “tend to have lower birthweight, more childhood illnesses, more infant mortality, poorer medical care, suffer more from hunger and malnourishment; they are exposed to more violence, and have more delayed development than children born to older mothers.” Indeed, daughters of teen mothers are more likely to become teen moms themselves than are children born to older mothers.
How widespread is teen pregnancy? How can teenage mothers successfully face the challenges of raising their infants? Is there any way to help young ones avoid falling into such dire straits in the first place?
I am studying the bible since March(2006) with a filipina whom she is not a teenage mom but she got pregnant by another filipino who is already married. When she got pregnant, the man left her. The baby (a girl) is now one year old, with only one parent, her mother.
I was attached to this mother and child. They are helpless, living in an apartment whom she manage to pay from small salary, from her menial work like baby sitting, cleaning , all around house work, with her baby tagging along with her. She is not in a good condition,financially, and I met her when she was going to do her laundry at a public laundry machine. We started the study.
Hopefully,in the future, she will be strong emotionally with the encouraging words from God.
That man cannot live by bread alone, but by the word that comes from God.Meaning, she will build her confidence, that she is not alone, she have God Jehovah and His Son watching , blessing and protecting her and her daughter. I helped her build up her faith.
Sunday, March 26, 2006
Can men and women be "just friends?"
in exchange of Butler stories, I created this blog.
Topic: Can Men and Women Be “Just Friends”?
Can men and women who are not married to each other be friends? That depends on what we mean by the word “friend.” Jesus was a close friend of Mary and Martha of Bethany—both single women. (John 11:1, 5) The apostle Paul was a friend of Priscilla and her husband, Aquila. (Acts 18:2, 3) We can be sure that these individuals shared warm affection. At the same time, we cannot imagine that either Jesus or Paul ever allowed these relationships to drift in the direction of romance.
Modern society thrusts men and women into each other’s worlds more than ever before, and it is becoming increasingly necessary for people of both genders to know how to have appropriate, friendly relationships with each other. Couples too benefit from wholesome friendships with other couples and with single people.
“Distinguishing between romantic, sexual and friendly feelings, however, can be exceedingly difficult,” cautions Psychology Today magazine. “The reality that sexual attraction could suddenly enter the equation of a cross-sex friendship uninvited is always lurking in the background. A simple, platonic hug could instantaneously take on a more amorous meaning.”
For married couples, being realistic and practical is especially important. “All forms of intimacy with others can threaten a marriage,” writes author Dennis Prager in his book Happiness Is a Serious Problem. “It is not sex alone that makes for an intimate relationship, and your spouse has the right to expect to be your one truly intimate friend of the opposite sex.” Jesus pointed out that maintaining moral chastity is a matter of the heart. (Matthew 5:28) Therefore, be friendly, but guard your heart and scrupulously avoid situations that could lead to improper thoughts, feelings, or actions toward anyone of the opposite sex.
Topic: Can Men and Women Be “Just Friends”?
Can men and women who are not married to each other be friends? That depends on what we mean by the word “friend.” Jesus was a close friend of Mary and Martha of Bethany—both single women. (John 11:1, 5) The apostle Paul was a friend of Priscilla and her husband, Aquila. (Acts 18:2, 3) We can be sure that these individuals shared warm affection. At the same time, we cannot imagine that either Jesus or Paul ever allowed these relationships to drift in the direction of romance.
Modern society thrusts men and women into each other’s worlds more than ever before, and it is becoming increasingly necessary for people of both genders to know how to have appropriate, friendly relationships with each other. Couples too benefit from wholesome friendships with other couples and with single people.
“Distinguishing between romantic, sexual and friendly feelings, however, can be exceedingly difficult,” cautions Psychology Today magazine. “The reality that sexual attraction could suddenly enter the equation of a cross-sex friendship uninvited is always lurking in the background. A simple, platonic hug could instantaneously take on a more amorous meaning.”
For married couples, being realistic and practical is especially important. “All forms of intimacy with others can threaten a marriage,” writes author Dennis Prager in his book Happiness Is a Serious Problem. “It is not sex alone that makes for an intimate relationship, and your spouse has the right to expect to be your one truly intimate friend of the opposite sex.” Jesus pointed out that maintaining moral chastity is a matter of the heart. (Matthew 5:28) Therefore, be friendly, but guard your heart and scrupulously avoid situations that could lead to improper thoughts, feelings, or actions toward anyone of the opposite sex.
how to make real friends
Topic: How to make real friends?
We All Need Friends
“A friend is someone you can talk to freely about anything, someone you can call any time of the day.” —Yaël, France
“A friend understands when you’re hurt and feels the same things inside that you do.” —Gaëlle, France
“THERE exists a friend sticking closer than a brother.” (Proverbs 18:24)
To Have a Friend, Be a Friend
Show Respect for Others
Do Not Demand Perfection
Loyal Friends Through Thick and Thin
it is hard to find a true friend:
how to make real friends
We All Need Friends
“A friend is someone you can talk to freely about anything, someone you can call any time of the day.” —Yaël, France
“A friend understands when you’re hurt and feels the same things inside that you do.” —Gaëlle, France
“THERE exists a friend sticking closer than a brother.” (Proverbs 18:24)
To Have a Friend, Be a Friend
Show Respect for Others
Do Not Demand Perfection
Loyal Friends Through Thick and Thin
it is hard to find a true friend:
how to make real friends
Thursday, March 09, 2006
your marriage can be saved
This topic is very upbuilding to those who have marital problems.
Hope you find it refreshing and upbuilding too.
Is joy and ecstacy lacking in your marriage? Has pain and disappointment overshadowed the intimacy and joy that once characterized your relationship? Even if your marriage has been in a loveless state for many years, what was lost can be found. Of course, you have to be realistic. No imperfect man and woman are able to achieve a perfect marriage. Nevertheless, there are steps that you can take to reverse negative trends.
Read more:
Your marriage can be saved
Meng, this POST is for you. You did save your marriage. Congratulations! Speak to you soon.
Hope you find it refreshing and upbuilding too.
Is joy and ecstacy lacking in your marriage? Has pain and disappointment overshadowed the intimacy and joy that once characterized your relationship? Even if your marriage has been in a loveless state for many years, what was lost can be found. Of course, you have to be realistic. No imperfect man and woman are able to achieve a perfect marriage. Nevertheless, there are steps that you can take to reverse negative trends.
Read more:
Your marriage can be saved
Meng, this POST is for you. You did save your marriage. Congratulations! Speak to you soon.
Getting married?
Are You Thinking About MARRIAGE?
If we compare the global divorce phenomenon to an earthquake, the United States would be at the epicenter. In a recent year, more than one million marriages were terminated there—an average of two every minute. But you may well be aware that the United States is hardly alone in its marital misery.
ACCORDING to one study, the divorce rates in Canada, England and Wales, France, Greece, and the Netherlands have more than doubled since 1970.
We have every reason to believe that most couples enter wedlock because they love each other and want to spend the rest of their lives together. Sadly, however, the dream of a happy marriage often proves to be just that—a dream. Upon waking up to reality, many have said that they married too soon or married the wrong person or both.
Why do so many marriages fail? "The main reason is a lack of preparation," says the author of a book about courtship. She adds: "As I deal with couples in the throes of marital distress two feelings engulf me—compassion and anger. I feel compassion because they have not discovered their dreams for a mutually satisfying relationship. I feel anger because of their ignorance regarding the complexity of the task."
Indeed, many enter marriage with little or no idea of how to make it succeed. Yet, this is hardly surprising. One educator observed: "How many of our youth go through college studying about the behavior of rats and lizards, but fail to learn about the behavior of two people called husband and wife?"
Are you thinking about marriage—either about a possible future marriage or about that marriage you are in now? If so, you should be aware that a real-life relationship is far different from that depicted in movies, on television shows, and in romance novels. At the same time, the marriage of two mature people who are truly in love may be considered a blessing from God. (Proverbs 18:22; 19:14) How, then, can you be sure that you are prepared to meet the demands of marriage? What factors should you consider in selecting a mate? Or if you are already married, how can you increase the likelihood of finding lasting happiness in your marriage? The next article in this series answers these important questions.
Succees in marriage, possible?
Why marriages fail?Here are the reasons:
Money: "One might imagine that budgeting would help unite a couple through the necessity of working together, pooling their resources for the basics of living, and enjoying the fruits of their labors. But here, too, what could bond a couple in a joint venture often serves to separate them."—Dr. Aaron T. Beck.
Parenthood: "We've found that 67 percent of couples experience a significant drop in marital contentment after their first child is born, and there is eight times more conflict. This is partly because parents are tired and don't have a lot of time for themselves."—Dr. John Gottman.
Deceit: "Infidelity usually involves deceit, and deceit, pure and simple, is a betrayal of trust. With trust identified as a crucial component in all successful long-term marriages, is it any wonder that deceit can wreak havoc on a marital relationship?"—Dr. Nina S. Fields.
Sex: "By the time people file for divorce, sexual deprivation of many years' standing is shockingly common. In some cases the sexual relationship was never established, and in others, sex was mechanical, merely a vent for one partner's physical needs."—Judith S. Wallerstein, clinical psychologist.
My marriage with Michel is strong as ever. See the principles applied in: Ecclestiastes 4:9-12
what consists a threefold cord? Do you know?
If we compare the global divorce phenomenon to an earthquake, the United States would be at the epicenter. In a recent year, more than one million marriages were terminated there—an average of two every minute. But you may well be aware that the United States is hardly alone in its marital misery.
ACCORDING to one study, the divorce rates in Canada, England and Wales, France, Greece, and the Netherlands have more than doubled since 1970.
We have every reason to believe that most couples enter wedlock because they love each other and want to spend the rest of their lives together. Sadly, however, the dream of a happy marriage often proves to be just that—a dream. Upon waking up to reality, many have said that they married too soon or married the wrong person or both.
Why do so many marriages fail? "The main reason is a lack of preparation," says the author of a book about courtship. She adds: "As I deal with couples in the throes of marital distress two feelings engulf me—compassion and anger. I feel compassion because they have not discovered their dreams for a mutually satisfying relationship. I feel anger because of their ignorance regarding the complexity of the task."
Indeed, many enter marriage with little or no idea of how to make it succeed. Yet, this is hardly surprising. One educator observed: "How many of our youth go through college studying about the behavior of rats and lizards, but fail to learn about the behavior of two people called husband and wife?"
Are you thinking about marriage—either about a possible future marriage or about that marriage you are in now? If so, you should be aware that a real-life relationship is far different from that depicted in movies, on television shows, and in romance novels. At the same time, the marriage of two mature people who are truly in love may be considered a blessing from God. (Proverbs 18:22; 19:14) How, then, can you be sure that you are prepared to meet the demands of marriage? What factors should you consider in selecting a mate? Or if you are already married, how can you increase the likelihood of finding lasting happiness in your marriage? The next article in this series answers these important questions.
Succees in marriage, possible?
Why marriages fail?Here are the reasons:
Money: "One might imagine that budgeting would help unite a couple through the necessity of working together, pooling their resources for the basics of living, and enjoying the fruits of their labors. But here, too, what could bond a couple in a joint venture often serves to separate them."—Dr. Aaron T. Beck.
Parenthood: "We've found that 67 percent of couples experience a significant drop in marital contentment after their first child is born, and there is eight times more conflict. This is partly because parents are tired and don't have a lot of time for themselves."—Dr. John Gottman.
Deceit: "Infidelity usually involves deceit, and deceit, pure and simple, is a betrayal of trust. With trust identified as a crucial component in all successful long-term marriages, is it any wonder that deceit can wreak havoc on a marital relationship?"—Dr. Nina S. Fields.
Sex: "By the time people file for divorce, sexual deprivation of many years' standing is shockingly common. In some cases the sexual relationship was never established, and in others, sex was mechanical, merely a vent for one partner's physical needs."—Judith S. Wallerstein, clinical psychologist.
My marriage with Michel is strong as ever. See the principles applied in: Ecclestiastes 4:9-12
what consists a threefold cord? Do you know?
Sunday, March 05, 2006
Betrayal , what to do?
Have you been betrayed by husband or wife? How does it feel?
This topic is in line also with the blog post of Marie
A sad experience explains:
"When there is infidelity, "then a flood of confusing emotions rain down." The sense of devastation is difficult enough for victims to comprehend—let alone outsiders, who have little grasp of the situation. "No one," claims Pat, "really understands how I feel. When I think about my husband being with her, I feel a real physical pain, an ache that is impossible to explain to anyone." She adds: "There are times that I think I'm going crazy. One day I feel so in control; the next day I don't. One day I miss him; the next day I remember all the scheming and lying and humiliation."
I, your Lola was in that situation before. The first infidelity of my first husband took 5 years for me to understand and swallow. I blame myself for not taking care of him, even though I know I didnt lack of care towards him. Then I survived the pain. You will too, if you are in the same situation.
please read the whole context of the link, it helps us all cope the pain.
Infidelity, its tragic effects
This topic is in line also with the blog post of Marie
A sad experience explains:
"When there is infidelity, "then a flood of confusing emotions rain down." The sense of devastation is difficult enough for victims to comprehend—let alone outsiders, who have little grasp of the situation. "No one," claims Pat, "really understands how I feel. When I think about my husband being with her, I feel a real physical pain, an ache that is impossible to explain to anyone." She adds: "There are times that I think I'm going crazy. One day I feel so in control; the next day I don't. One day I miss him; the next day I remember all the scheming and lying and humiliation."
I, your Lola was in that situation before. The first infidelity of my first husband took 5 years for me to understand and swallow. I blame myself for not taking care of him, even though I know I didnt lack of care towards him. Then I survived the pain. You will too, if you are in the same situation.
please read the whole context of the link, it helps us all cope the pain.
Infidelity, its tragic effects
WHO ARE WE ?
Topic:Jehovah's Witnesses?
Yes, that is the way we refer to ourselves. It is a descriptive name, indicating that they bear witness concerning Jehovah, his Godship, and his purposes. "God," "Lord," and "Creator"—like "President," "King," and "General"—are titles and may be applied to several different personages. But "Jehovah" is a personal name and refers to the almighty God and Creator of the universe. This is shown at Psalm 83:18, according to the King James version of the Bible: "That men may know that thou, whose name alone is JEHOVAH, art the most high over all the earth."
God's personal name in ancient Hebrew
The name Jehovah (or Yahweh, as the Roman Catholic Jerusalem Bible and some scholars prefer) appears almost 7,000 times in the original Hebrew Scriptures. Most Bibles do not show it as such but substitute "God" or "Lord" for it. However, even in these Bibles, a person can usually tell where the original Hebrew text uses Jehovah because in those places the substituted words are written in large and small capitals, thus: GOD, LORD. Several modern translations do use either the name Jehovah or the name Yahweh. Hence, the New World Translation reads at Isaiah 42:8, "I am Jehovah. That is my name."
Sunday, instead of staying at home, in front of my PC, Michel and I will drive to ST Maurice, to join some french to do some house calls.
Oh, yeah, part of our activities, giving people some "spiritual" food.
Your Lola had change. Got to work for God.
Latest news, we found an interested filipina, working in Nice and she got a beautiful baby girl. I will ask thier photo on our next visit.
Michel is calling, got to go. Have a nice weekend for all.
Yes, that is the way we refer to ourselves. It is a descriptive name, indicating that they bear witness concerning Jehovah, his Godship, and his purposes. "God," "Lord," and "Creator"—like "President," "King," and "General"—are titles and may be applied to several different personages. But "Jehovah" is a personal name and refers to the almighty God and Creator of the universe. This is shown at Psalm 83:18, according to the King James version of the Bible: "That men may know that thou, whose name alone is JEHOVAH, art the most high over all the earth."
God's personal name in ancient Hebrew
The name Jehovah (or Yahweh, as the Roman Catholic Jerusalem Bible and some scholars prefer) appears almost 7,000 times in the original Hebrew Scriptures. Most Bibles do not show it as such but substitute "God" or "Lord" for it. However, even in these Bibles, a person can usually tell where the original Hebrew text uses Jehovah because in those places the substituted words are written in large and small capitals, thus: GOD, LORD. Several modern translations do use either the name Jehovah or the name Yahweh. Hence, the New World Translation reads at Isaiah 42:8, "I am Jehovah. That is my name."
Sunday, instead of staying at home, in front of my PC, Michel and I will drive to ST Maurice, to join some french to do some house calls.
Oh, yeah, part of our activities, giving people some "spiritual" food.
Your Lola had change. Got to work for God.
Latest news, we found an interested filipina, working in Nice and she got a beautiful baby girl. I will ask thier photo on our next visit.
Michel is calling, got to go. Have a nice weekend for all.
Friday, March 03, 2006
Photos and About Us
Me and my friend Cel, with others in Paris.
Michel, my husband, me and Narda,-4° cold brrr...
Paris is always colder than Nice...
Michel with a French brother, both are learning Tagalog.
Jenny and me ,still in bronze sunsburned
due to Gran Canaria trip,
Im so pangeet...
Do you notice, we are all in decent attire?
Ladies in skirts, Men in suits.
Our trademark: Always Presentable.Eh dapat lang, we are representing God.We visited Eiffel tower after, but foggy weather.Cant have some photos taken.(Sad)
All photos were taken last Feb. 26,2006 Dreux,Paris. We , 16 of us from Nice,took Air France,to Paris ,to attend our Tagalog Language Assembly with some french brothers and sisters, who were learning the Tagalog language.
Sikat ang Pinoy,we are around 500 attendees(Witnesses and students, Tagalog Session) and more than 1000, in French Session, just in the area of Dreux,Paris. Some of the filipinos came from Germany and Austria.Welcome by the French tayo, kasi warm people daw tayo.
In France, 60million of the population, there are , 119,131 Witnesses, includes 2,318 baptized, year 2005.
In Italy, 58million population,234,795 witnesses, 4,802 were baptized year 2005.
In Philippines,85 million population, 146,613 Witnesses,6,719 baptized year 2005.
In 235 countries, there are 6,613,829 Witnesses as per 2005 Jehovah's Witnesses World Report.
We are sure that you have some questions about Jehovah's Witnesses and their beliefs. Perhaps some issues are controversial in nature. Michel and I would be glad to answer your questions.Email us.
Here are some examples of questions frequently asked about us.
I put it here for your easy research what we do, what we believe.
Why do the Witnesses call on people who have their own religion?
In doing this they follow Jesus' example. He went to the Jews. The Jews had their own religion, but in many ways it had turned away from the Word of God. (Matthew 15:1-9) All nations have religions of some kind, whether so-called Christian or non-Christian. It is vitally important for people to hold beliefs that conform to God's own Word, and the efforts of the Witnesses to assist them in doing this constitute a showing of neighbor love.
Do the Witnesses believe that their religion is the only right one?
Anyone who is serious about his religion should think that it is the right one. Otherwise, why would he or she be involved in it?
Do they believe that they are the only ones who will be saved?
No. Millions that have lived in centuries past and who were not Jehovah's Witnesses will come back in a resurrection and have an opportunity for life.
Find more on this link:
Questions about the Witnesses
Do you have questions too? We appreciate it, post comment or email us.
Thursday, March 02, 2006
Church Donations
Giving donations to the Chuch, is it offensive ?
Read(by clicking the two links) the answers
Giving Until it Hurts
Giving that Brings Joy
Source: The Watchtower Library
Read(by clicking the two links) the answers
Giving Until it Hurts
Giving that Brings Joy
Source: The Watchtower Library
Protect Yourself from Fraud
Do you know about pyramid and jpmorgan scams (in phils?) Here is a topic to protect you from them, or any other scams that will come your way.
Read more:
How to protec yourself from fraud
Source: The Watchtower Library.
Read more:
How to protec yourself from fraud
Source: The Watchtower Library.
Tuesday, February 28, 2006
six email scams
in exchange of Butler stories, I created this blog. All useful topics.You may comment, if you find it useful to your everyday life.
Work-at-home schemes: In one form of this scam, you are offered the opportunity to assemble such things as jewelry, toys, or craft kits. You invest money in the materials and time in assembling the product, only to find that your work cannot be sold to the promoters because it does not meet their standards. More on this link:
six email scams
Work-at-home schemes: In one form of this scam, you are offered the opportunity to assemble such things as jewelry, toys, or craft kits. You invest money in the materials and time in assembling the product, only to find that your work cannot be sold to the promoters because it does not meet their standards. More on this link:
six email scams
on divorce
Many have questions about divorce and how God views it. In some countries, like Sri Lanka and Philippines, there is no divorce.Many religion says, that it is bad to take divorce, stay married despite there's unfaithfullnes by our mate. But, really is it scriptural? Here's a question from a reader.
"The thing that bothered me a lot," admits Pat, "was the thought that God hates a divorcing.' Always in the back of my mind was the question, 'Am I doing what pleases God if I divorce my mate?'"
Read the truth on
Does God hates ALL divorce?
"The thing that bothered me a lot," admits Pat, "was the thought that God hates a divorcing.' Always in the back of my mind was the question, 'Am I doing what pleases God if I divorce my mate?'"
Read the truth on
Does God hates ALL divorce?
same sex marriages
"DURING the church ceremony, the two men stand hand in hand before a renowned Episcopal bishop. They make a “covenant . . . before God and the church.” Clothed in ornate gold-and-white vestments, the bishop publicly blesses their union. Afterward the couple hug and kiss and are given a standing ovation. According to this bishop, such homosexual relationships “are holy and deserve to be blessed, . . . deserve to be called what they are: sacred.”"
more on:
Does God approved of same sex marriages?
What do you think?
more on:
Does God approved of same sex marriages?
What do you think?
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