Instruction sheet

Instruction Sheet for Pattern for Living

When using a pattern one generally goes by an instruction sheet.  God's Word definitely gives us good instructions while following the pattern for our lives.

Important:
Proverbs 3:6  In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.

Study First:
2 Timothy 2:15   Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

Planning and Layout:
1 Corinthians 14:40  Let all things be done decently and in order.

Seam Allowance:
Give others the benefit of the doubt.  I Samuel 16:7...for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart.

Instructions for Cutting:
Cut out all unkind criticism, gossip, fault finding.  Ephesians 4:32 And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.

Ruffling:
Don't get ruffled!  Not called for in this pattern!
James 1:4 But let patience have [her] perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.

Lip Zipper:
Lord fill my mouth with proper stuff,
and nudge me when I've said enough.
Proverbs 17:28 Even a fool, when he holdeth his peace, is counted wise: [and] he that shutteth his lips [is esteemed] a man of understanding.

Facing The Task:
Titus 2:7 In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works:...

Binding:
Proverbs 6:20-21  My son, keep thy father’s commandment, and forsake not the law of thy mother: Bind them continually upon thine heart, [and] tie them about thy neck.

Pressing:
Philippians 3:14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.

Finishing Detail:
2 Timothy 4:7 I have fought a good fight, I have finished [my] course, I have kept the faith:

The Weaver

The Weaver

Here is an excellent poem. May we but realize that we are in the weaver's hands and He knows the outcome.

The Weaver

My life is but a weaving
Between my Lord and me,
I cannot choose the colors
He worketh steadily

Ofttimes He weaveth sorrow
And I in foolish pride
Forget He sees the upper
And I, the underside.

Not till the loom is silent
And the shuttles cease to fly
Shall God unroll the canvas
And Explain the reason why.

The dark threads are as needful
In the Weaver's skillful hand
As the threads of gold and silver
In the pattern He has planned.

-Grant Colfax Tuller

The above was used in our Pattern for Living theme

A Simple Yet Necessary Pattern for Living

1. Select Pattern:  The Bible is our pattern
2. Cut out Pattern:  Remove Sin from your life.
3. Sew Pattern:  Add Godly characteristics
4. Wear Outfit:  Be a witness with your life.

The above was used in the Pattern for Living Theme.

Fashions A La'Frivolous

Here is a humorous fashion show to use in one of your ladies meetings.  It is just a fun and enjoyable skit.   It was used in our theme Pattern for Living, but could be adapted to your own theme.  Have fun with it, add to it or change it to suit your needs.

Fashions A La'Frivolous

Good morning, ladies!  This morning, knowing that we all need to refresh our personal wardrobe from time to time, we have prepared a special collection of fine originals for your viewing and consideration.  Upon the conclusion of our fashion show, if you wish to obtain one of these originals for your wardrobe, you need only to let us know!  Before we begin, I'd like to remind you of a verse of Scripture found in Proverbs 17:22--"A merry heart doeth good like a medicine".  We are trusting that our style show will not only give you some good ideas, but will provide some merriment for your hearts!  Our collection will feature favorites for travel, sportswear, office wear, that after-five look and even some sleepwear.  If our music director is ready with her accompaniment, let us begin.  (Music director plays as each model is introduced)

Models

1. Box Suit	6. Print Dress
2. Sack Dress	7. Panel Skir
3.  Slip Over Sweate	8. Dinner Dress
4. Car Coat	9. Evening Ensemble
5. Spring Coat

Box Suit

Large Box (to cover body area)

Rope choker

Cocoa box (with handle added)

Pill box hat (made from pill boxes)

Boxing gloves

Shoe boxes (for shoes)  

The first fashion on our program is the standard favorite, the BOX SUIT from the House of Cartons Unlimited.  There's nothing baggy about thisi outfit which is ideal for box socials or a classy,out-on-the town, Jacqueline Kennedy look.  To go along with the box theme is an adorable pillbox hat created by Advil and Aleve.  For jewelry, our model, has chosen the choker necklace, and she is carrying a cocoa-colored bag, which is in such good taste.  to compliment her outfit, she wears that latest punch in kid gloves.  don't fail to notice her newest style, squared-toed shoes..."wearing boxes without tops, sandals were for Clementine".

Sack Dress

Large Plastic Sack (to cover body)

Paperclip Necklace and Earrings

Marshmallow Purse

Caps (on each shoulder

Rubber band bracelet

Sting of Lifesavers (on shoes)

Two pieces of garden hose (tied to lower leg)

Next is the SACK DRESS from the House of Jacque Pen-nay, worn by our model.  Notice the accentuated straight lines of this dress with the attractive cap sleeves.  She is carrying the novel marshmallow colored purse.  Besides being fashionable, think what a hit you could be at barbeques and weiner roasts.  Melissa's paperclip necklace and matching earrings, along with the rubber band bracelets will prove to be very handy in any office or school setting.  Her shoes will be real lifesavers for those long work hours and are niceley set off by the coordinating green hose.

SLIP OVER SWEATER

Slip worn over a sweater

Butter knives hung by string (over skirt)

Tong shoes

Alligator Purse

Toy Turtles (for neck)

Balloons

Our model is wearing a fashionable SLIP OVER SWEATER, a strictly from nowhere creation, especially good for those hurry up and dress occasions.  The Coordinating turtle neck is very becoming and too hard-shelled to miss.  The sleeves feature the exquisite balloon style.  The fashionable skirt with knife pleats does well in cutting corners in your budget.  She wears tong shoes, a favorite summer style and perfect for picking up those tired feet.  The alligator purse gives snap to her ensemble.  Don't you agree that this is a sharp outfit? 

CAR COAT

Cars pinned on coat

Convertible car on collar

Seat Belts

Clutch Purse (Clutch from car)

Hub Cap Hat

Old Car or Trike Horn

Spark Plugs (worn as pin)

This model has turned to the sports line as she models her CAR COAT, a Fasten-Your-Seat-Belts Creation.  She proudly points out the features of this coat and plugs the product.  Notice the clever convertible collar which can be worn with the top either up or down. Our model  is wearing a fashionable hub cap, good for those tiring days, and carries a clutch bag, geared to any woman's taste.  The horn delightfully calls attention to this trend-setting, useful coat which can be purchased at your local car dealership here in your own area.

SPRING COAT

Springs (Attached to collar and hem of coat)

Floral Hat

Bones (attached to a purse)

Duck Bills on Shoes (made from cloth)

Next we have our model bouncing in with the very latest in SPRING COATS designed by Spring Mattress Company.  The elegance of this outfit practically defies description.  The gentle collar matches the hem of the coat.  Springs are busting out all over!  The coat is extremely light, weighing less than 25 pounds.  Her lovely floral hat with spring colors,makes i an all season outfit, perfect for those rainy, but warm Carolina mornings.  Notice her lovely bone purse -- a ready treat for any dog along her way.  The duck bill shoes will do swimmingly well in all the puddles.

PRINT DRESS

Newspaper Skirt Wrap-Around

Comic Paper Top

Drinking Straws (glued to paper bag purse)

Straw Hat with pictures mounted

Now we see our model always first in fashion,modeling the latest in PRINT.  Prints are having one of their biggest fashion seasons in years, and this is one of the most unique designs.  This adorable number, created by The Charlotte Observer, has a comical blouse and pleated news-worthy skirt, which after wearing, can be used for wrapping anything, and especially garbage, if no sacks are available,  If you have a special picture around that you want to show off, you could do it as our model has for her accompanying picture hat.  Her otufit is further enhanced with the ever popular straw purse.  Think of how convenient this purse will be when your next fast food stop forgets the straws for your drinks!

PANEL SKIRT

Wood Panels

Blue Prints (to cover blouse area)

File Purse

Copper Pipe Pieces

Wrench

This model wears the youthful PANEL SKIRT styled by the U.S. Plywood Company, which is built for comfort.  It reminds us of the budding trees of springtime.  The blue print over-blouse has attractive lines and is ideal for house hunting or consulting with your local home contractor.  The copper piping is the perfect, old-fashioned accent and is preferable to the newer and cheaper versions of piping.  The wrench necklace will keep youfrom getting stuck to the house every day.  And, of course,the fild purse give this otufit a fine finishing touch.

DINNER DRESS

Tablecloth

Tea Bag Earrings

Garden Vegetable Corsage

Shell Purse (egg shells glued to bag)

Ice Cream Scoop and Rolling Pin

Measuring Spoons/Cups or Tape (for hemline)

Kitchen Accessories

Centerpiece (for head)

Five Dates Strung Around Wrist

Our next creation is a beautiful DINNER DRESS.  Our model is wearing this exquisite gown of white Textured Cotton from the looms of Carolina Mills.  It is the absolute best for her after five dates.  Extremely functional, this dress is designed with a scoop neckline.  Accessories are obviously all useful.  Her dangling tea bag earrings and centerpiece hat would add grace to any dining room.  The pin adds charm to her waist line, and notice the carefully measured hemline.  The fitting corsage made of garden vegetables confirms that harvest time is here.  The shell purse almost looks good enough to eat.

EVENING ENSEMBLE

Flannel Pajamas

Dog Slippers

Night Cream (for face)

Curlers (or toy steam rollers)

Candle Stick and Candle

Rolls (for collar)

Silk Flowers (pinned to sleep pants)

Last, but not least, our sleepy model ismodeling this beautiful EVENING ENSEMBLE.  The top has basic, clean-cut lines with coordinating bloomers and is simply a dream...or is it a nightmare??  Look at the soft roll collar supplied by Bake-Rite Bakery and especially handy for those midnight snacks.  This lovely model is blessed with that glowing, creamy complexion and notice in particular the (steam) rollers in her hair.  No wonder she has such lovely, naturally curly hari.  Her feet are adorned iwth cuddly companions for the night.  Does all this give you a tired feeling?  Well, as you may guess, this is the END.

       

Pattern for Living

Pattern for Living

Instruction Sheet

For this series of meetings a pattern envelope was made and given to each lady with instructions for each meeting.  The envelope looked like this:

Front

Back

Inside the envelope was placed a sheet that looked like this:

There were several of the above pages stating the place of each meeting with the date and time, the speaker, the craft, and the hostess helpers.  You could adapt them any way you wanted.

Also enclosed was a Pattern for Living Instruction Sheet which included the following:

Important:  "In all they ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct thy paths."  Proverbs 3:6



General Directions for Doctrine and Life:  Study Titus 2



Planning & Layout (1st Meeting):

• Gather Materials - "Let all things be done decently and in order"  I Corinthians 14:40
  
  

•  Study directions - "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."  II Timothy 2:15
• Consult expert - "Pray without ceasing."  I Thessalonians 5:17

Instruction for Cutting (2nd Meeting):

• Seam allowance - Give others the benefit of the doubt.  "Man looketh on the outward appearance but the Lord looketh on the heart." I samuel 16:7
• Cutting - Cut out all unkind criticism, gossip and fault finding.  "Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings, as newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby"  I Peter 2:1,2

Facing the Task & Marking the Pattern (3rd Meeting):

• Choose interfacing for shaping - "In all things showing thyself a pattern of good works." Titus 2:7
• Marking - "Mark the perfect man, and behold the upright:  for the end of that man is peace."  Psalms 37:37

Construction of the Garment (4th Meeting):

• Put it all together - "Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful." I Cor. 4:2
• Binding - "Keep they father's commandment, and forsake not the law of thy mother:  bind them continually upon thine heart, and tie them about thy neck."  Prov. 6:20,21

Finishing & Pressing (5th Meeting):

• Pressing - "I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus."  Phillippians 3:14
• Finishing detail - "I have finished my course, I have kept the faith."  II Timothy 4:7

*****************************************************************************************************************

Glossary

Ruffling - Don't get ruffled!  Not called for in this pattern!



Lip Zipper - "Lord fill my mouth with proper stuff, and nudge me when I've said enough,"



Gathering - Drawing together of friends using thread of humor.



Elasticity - Use for all problems.  For vexations caused by people, apply affection.  For problems caused by circumstances, apply prayer.  Fro infirmities or unexpected obstructions that hinder well-laid plans, say "Thy will be done."

 

Five Principles of Discipline

Five Principles of Discipline

1. Be an example of what you intend to teach.  I Tim. 4:12; I Cor. 11:1
2. Demonstrate love before correction.  do not combine praise and blame.  The more you praise your sons and daughters the less you need to discipline them.  Heb. 12:6
3. Train your child to seek your approval and to delight in wisdom.  Prov. 10:1
4. Establish goals and limitations.  Heb. 12:8

• Limitations will be tested for security.
• No limitation implies rejection of child.  Young people want to be conquered.
• Teach obedience by the word "NO!"
• Teach reverence for God, parents, property.
• Set goals:  personal disciplines, finances, friends, music, skills character, ministry.

        5.  Clarify the consequences of disobedience.
Example:  Adam - avoid bitterness.  Satan's major attack on the church comes through deception.

First Offense:

1. Get alone with the child.  I Thess. 2:11
2. Clarify instruction (was it understood?)
3. Convey grief eye-to-eye (for repentance) Ezra 9:3
4. Give only one warning
5. Be prepared to follow through on discipline.
6. Make sure punishment is scriptural

Second Offense:

1. Act "in the day you hear of it." Num. 30:5
2. Bind Satan before confrontation. Mark 3:27
3. Get alone for correction
4. Establish personal responsibility. I John 1:9
5. Appeal to his conscience.  "Could I ask you some very personal questions?  You do not have to answer these questions, but if you do, will you be honest?  Romans 2:15
6. Emphasize your responsibility to God.  Proverbs 13:24
7. Reflect grief --- wait for repentance.
8. Associate correction with love.  Hebrews 12:6
9. Win his will without breaking his spirit.  Hebrews 12:15
10. Know the causes of a broken spirit --- anger, inconsistency, or injustice by parents.  "meekness---my energy under God's control."
11. Purpose of crying --- clear conscience.  Rod is a symbol of authority.
12. Signs of willfulness --- temper tantrums, no crying, threats of retaliation, resentment.
13. In difficult cases --- express more grief, examine your life for similar failures or God's reproof.
14. Give comfort after repentance (word, affection, understanding) same parent.  Hebrews 12:11
15. Encourage restitution.  Ephesians 4:28
16. Evaluate results --- ask forgiveness for anger.

-copied

How much for How Many?

HOW MUCH FOR HOW MANY?

Ever wonder how much food you need for serving larger crowds.  Below are some good guidelines to follow.

Dress up your Table

Why not practice and use a few of these napkin folds to dress up your table for a special day or holiday?

These are scans of pictures that were given to us as complimentary instructions from the Broadway Party Rental in Minneapolis, Minnesota.  My scans are not too great, but you can still get the picture.

Setting the Scene


Where does the dessert fork go? And what about the spoon, knife and napkin? Set an elegant table for a special holiday such as  Thanksgiving and Christmas with the help of this place setting example. 

taken from Kraft Food and Family Holiday 2003

Garden Casserole

Garden Casserole
M.F. Rosenau

4 cups cubed zucchini, yellow squash or 2 cups of each 1 large carrot grated 1 medium onion minced 1 can sliced water chestnuts, drained 1 8 oz. container of sour cream 1 can cream of mushroom soup Topping:  1 stick margarine or butter and 1 box chicken-flavored Stove-top stuffing

1. Boil zucchini or yellow squash 4 minutes, drain and add the next 5 ingredients.  Mix together and put in 9 x 9 casserole dish.
2. Mix melted butter and dry stuffing mix.  Put evenly on top of casserole.
3. Bake at 325 degrees for 25 to 30 minutes or until bubbling thoroughly.

Chicken and Dressing Casserole

Chicken and Dressing Casserole
J. Lockhart

4-5 chicken breast halves 8 oz. Herb Seasoned Pepperidge Farm stuffing mix 1 can cream of chicken soup 1 can evaporated milk 1 cup chicken broth 1 stick butter or margarine

1. Boil chicken and tear into small pieces.
2. In bowl mix soup and milk; stir chicken into milk mixture.  Pour into ungreased 13x9 baking dish.
3. In separate bowl, melt the butter and add broth and stuffing; mix well.  If not moist enough, add more broth.
4. Pour stuffing mixture over chicken and bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes.

Country Baked Beans

Country Baked Beans
S.Gauger

10 bacon slices 4 cans (28 oz.) baked beans 5 green peppers, cut into 1" pieces 2 c. ketchup

2 T. mustard 3 large onions, chopped 1/2 c. firmly packed brown sugar 1 T. white vinegar

1. Cook bacon until crisp; reserve two tablespoons drippings.  Crumble bacon.
2. Stir together bacon, bacon drippings, beans*, and next five ingredients, in a roasting pan.
3. Bake, covered, at 350 degrees for three hours.  Stir in vinegar.

*Note:  I drain the juice from two of the cans of beans into a bowl until I know if it will be needed.  I don't like soupy baked beans.  Add some or all of this juice prior to baking if needed.

Gossip, "Fair-Weather" Friendships: NIP THEM IN THE BUD EARLY!

Gossip, "Fair-Weather" Friendships: NIP THEM IN THE BUD EARLY!

Teach your Children well
GOSSIP AND "FAIR-WEATHER' FRIENDSHIPS: "NIPPING THEM IN THE BUD" OF CHILDHOOD
by Sarah Eppes
Aug 9, 2005


Today, the cockles of my heart were warmed at church by the sight of an older girl walking up to my daughter and welcoming her with a hug. Oh, what joy to see young girls--no matter the different ages--showing affection and care for each other!


From unfortunate experience I know that this kindness between girls is not always the case,nor is it always the case between young ladies or older women! In fact, it is all too common to witness women of all ages acting in ways that are unkind to each other and unbecoming of the Lord.


Perhaps this is why the Lord spoke in His Word about how women are to act towards one another. He must have fully know the propensity of our gender to feel most comfortable when we have someone close to us who is like us, who likes us, and who may join us in what we dislike. It is so human to want to be wanted, to want to belong, and to want to be comfortable with those around us. It is heartbreaking that this desire to belong often manifests itself in leaving others out, talking about them, or treating them
unkindly. It seems that ungodly desires in friendships can lead straight to gossip and slander.


My mother and I were recently chatting about my eight year old niece. She attends a private school, and my mother often picks her up from school. Mom was disheartened that on most "pick-up" days, this kind-hearted little girl clambers into the car disappointed and sad. The trouble is not the schoolwork, but, invariably, it is because she has been left out by friends and experiences the ache of watching several little girls who exclude her from the playground games.


In reassuring my niece, my mom tells stories about my very own childhood experiences with "fair-weather" friends. "Fair-weather" friends are those who can best be described as those who are kind when it is convenient and beneficial to the circumstance--very often when other friends are not around. My mother taught me to handle these friends by being kind in return. She advised me to see other friends and different activities. She also taught me that my worth was based upon their opinions of me, their unkind treament, or whispers and giggles behind upheld hands. Instead, my worth was found as a child of God.


My mother was surprised to hear that my daughter has had her own experiences with "fair-weather friends of many ages. Mom was under the impression that because we homeschool, these "socialization" problems would be minimal. Sadly, this is not the case. It seems that exclusionary tactics and gossip seem to transcend every activity, despite the educational method.


While Mom and I do not often see boys excluding each other, we have found that when more than two little girls from different families gather, the likelihood is exceedingly high that at least one will be left out by some grouping of the others. However, friendships do not have to be this way. And I know that the Lord does not want it to be this way. In the Word, the Lord has given us excellent instructions on navigating the waters of friendship without hurting one another and sinking into gossip.


Actively Nipping It in the Bud
One good place to start in understanding appropriate friendships is in the article on LAF entitled "Conducting Friendships". This is a lovely article which gently discusses friendships. It is replete with Bible study references.


A second positive step is to remember some sage advice from Elisabeth Elliot. Mrs. Elliot has advised that as women, we are all "Titus 2" some to someone younger than us. We as young ladies or women are to set an example to others in our speech and relations. "The ages women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness..." (Titus 2:3)


In the same way that I saw the little girl at church hug and greet my daughter, I have seen the women at church tenderly greet one another. As we older women model appropriate and kind relationships, hopefully those younger than us will seek to treat others in the same way. If we mothers teach our daughters to look to the interests of others, then we are being proactive in training and building a hedge of protection against behavior that leads to gossip or unloving friendships.


We mothers especially need to guard against the tendency to overlook any inappropriate behavior towards others. In parenting, it can be easy to see the sweetness in our children at home, but not to see the reality of their behavior in public. It can also be easy to accept the explanation and excuse of a child rather than getting to the heart of the matter. This unfortunately fosters and perpetuates a negative tendency in our children.


Third, and most important, we women must be steeped in the Word and what the Lord says about behavior. We should desire to have behavior that glorifies the Lord and shows that we love Him above all. Most likely, all of us have made mistakes in this area. but the plumb line of our behavior is to be the Word of God.


It is written...
Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings, As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby: If so be ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious. I Peter 2:1-3


We are to lay aside all "fair-weather" behavior toward others. We are not to be hypocritical and show feigned kindness toward others at one moment, only to be unkind or distant at another time. We are not to be envious of others, and so find ourselves speaking evil. We are to earnestly love people as we have first been loved by the Lord.


But as He which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; I Peter 1:15


As we love the Lord and desire to be more like Him, we will seek to have all that we say be glorifying to Him. It is never glorifying to speak ill of others or to slander them in any way.


The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things; That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children, To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed. Titus 2:3-5


As we have behavior that becometh holiness, it will be shown in our soberness, our love, and our discretion. Our behavior will glorify the Lord and will not be blasphemous.


And when we are sinned against, what are we to do? We are to love. We will best show our love of the Lord in a manner that glorifies Him. we will use speech that edifies, coupled with tender-hearted behavior. we are to teach our daughters to love the sinner and forgive, even if the person who hurt them does not seek forgiveness.


When ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses. Mark 11:25


When treated in a hurtful way, we women will do best to follow the Lord's wise words in Romans 12, "Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not... Be of the same mind one toward another...Recompense to no man evil for evil...If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men. Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves...Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head. Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good" :(Romans12:14, 16-21).


As we dwell in the Word, we will be blessed with a full knowledge of the Lord. This knowledge will instruct us in how to treat others. In turn, we women can instruct and model godly behavior for those younger than us, especially our daughters. Most importantly of all, we should seek reconciliation when something inappropriate happens in a friendship. Man's reconciliation with God is why Jesus came to us. Our reconciliation with others should be a priority.

~copied

The Brat

"The Brat"
by Dr. Richard Flanders
Juniata Baptist Church
Vassar, Michigan

“ A wise son maketh a glad father: but a foolish son [is] the heaviness of his mother.” (Pr 10:1 )

“He that spareth his rod hateth his son: but he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes.” (Pr 13:24 )

“Foolishness [is] bound in the heart of a child; [but] the rod of correction shall drive it far from him.” (Pr 22:15 )

“The rod and reproof give wisdom: but a child left [to himself] bringeth his mother to shame.” (Pr 29:15 )

The Book of Proverbs is the main "wisdom" book of the Bible.  In it, among many other wonderful things, men have found great wisdom about bringing up children.  Without question, Proverbs recommends, even commands,the use of corporal punishment by parents in the character-training of their children.  This wisdom is not popular at the dawn of the twenty-first century in America, but it is profoundly important.  The spanking enjoined by the Bible is neither cruel nor abusive.  It is to be administered with love, purpose, and restraint.  Spanking is only a part of the biblical formula of effective child-rearing, but it is an essential part.  Sadly, the sparing of the rod has produced much heartache in our country, and has populated this land with a multitude of troubled and troublesome brats!

The term "brat" has an interesting origin.  It is an Old English word for a child, based on the word for a rough or trashy garment.  Dictionaries say that "brat" has come to be a contemptuous word for child.  Why would a child be regarded with contempt?  The answer is obvious.  A child is a brat when he is selfish, obnoxious, and out of control.  Any child will be a brat unless he is trained to control himself.  Self-control is learned through a training program at home that includes loving discipline.  Because so few children have been growing up in a disciplining family, many Americans become brats.  Their lack of self-control and discipline creates serious problems in their lives, problems of which we all have become very aware.

Childish self centeredness is the reason for many adult problems.  It is behind "road rage," domestic violence, and even much suicide!  When a brat gets angry, he must act it out.  When a brat doesn't get what he wants right now, he throws a tantrum.  When a brat is disappointed with life, he can't handle it.  Brats make people miserable, but the most miserable of all is the brat himself.  Highly selfish people are prone to get divorces, lose jobs, and hurt others.  Selfishness is inborn, and will ruin a life unless "the rod of correction" is applied to "drive it far from him" in childhood.

A properly spanked child learns to control his offensive and harmful impulses, to subject his desires to the best interests of all, and to behave in a mature manner.  A big problem in our country today is immaturity in adults!  It's the cause of the irresponsible bahavior that disrupts decent society: drug and alcohol abuse, marital cruelty and infidelity, as well as all kinds of criminal activity.  The brats are ruining the country!

Some say that spanking in childhood produces violent adults, but nothing could be farther from the truth!  Most irrational or violent acts are committed by brats, kids who never got a spanking!  One difficulty we are having is in understanding what a spanking is.  A swat on the hand or the face is not a spanking.  To be administered Biblically, the rod must be used in association with intense parental love and clear parental teaching.  Spankings must be purposeful and controlled, given with tears and prayers, in order to be effective.

The brat has not been served well by his parents or by the others that have spoiled him.  He cannot cope with life without unreasonable reaction, unbearable disappointment, and unsolvable problems.  Self-discipline produced by parental discipline is of inestimable value in the lving of lfie.  To withhodl discipline form children is to harm them immensely.  The brat is not funny; he is pitialbe and sad.  It is hard for a grown-up brat to learn self-control later in life, but he can do ti.  It is better however, for his parents to teach him as a child.

Twenty Common Ways Parent Provoke Children to Anger

1. By modeling anger.     Proverbs 22:24-25
2. By not having marital harmony.     Genesis 2:24 (repeated 4 times in the Bible); Hebrews 12:15
3. By consistently disciplining in anger     Psalm 6:1; 38:1
4. By being inconsistent with discipline.     Eccl. 8:11
5. By having double standards.     Matt. 23:1-4; Phil. 4:9
6. By not admitting when wrong.     Matt. 5:23-26; Job 32:2; James 5:16
7. By constantly finding fault.  Job 32:2-3
8. By reversing God-given roles.  Eph. 5:22-24;  Gen. 3:16
9. By not listening to the child's side of the story.      Proverbs 18:13,17
10. By comparing them to others.  II Cor. 10:12
11. by not having time to talk with them.    Eph. 5:18
12. By not praising the child.  II Cor. 2:6-8; Rev. 2:3
13. By failing to keep promises.   Matt. 5:37; Col 3:9; Psalm 15:4
14. By scolding him/her in front of others.  Matt. 18:15; John 21:15-17
15. By giving too much freedom.  Proverbs 29:15; Gal. 4:1,2
16. By being too strict.   James 3:17
17. By making fun of the child.   Job 17:1,2
18. By abusing them physically.   I Tim. 3:3;  Titus 1:7; Numbers 22
19. By calling him names.   Eph. 4:29
20. By having unrealistic expectations.  I Cor. 13:11

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Baked Sweet Potato Casserole

Baked Sweet Potato Casserole

S. Gauger

3 c. Sweet potatoes mashed 2 eggs 1/2 tsp. salt 1 c. sugar

1/3 c. margarine or butter 1/2 c. milk 1 tsp. vanilla extract

Mix together the sweet potatoes, margarine or butter, eggs, milk, salt, vanilla, and sugar.  Pour into a greased 9x9 inch baking dish.

Topping:

1 c. brown sugar 1/2 c. margarine or butter 1/3 c.flour 1/2 c. ground nuts

Melt together the brown sugar, flour, and margarine or butter.  Add nuts.  Pour over sweet potatoes.  Bake 350 degrees for 30 minutes.

Fifty Rules for Parenting

1. Parents, be accountable to each other.
2. Each child is different.  They each require different training methods.
3. Don't let your child split mom and dad. ( ask one if the other said no)
4. Discipline/Punishment (Punish the action/discipline the child)  If you punish the child, the child feels emotionally beat up.  never make their negative action about you (You make..., Your hurt me..., etc.).  Tell them what God thinks about their action good or bad.
5. Reward vs. Pacifier (rewards are good.  Giving something to shut them up is not).  Short -term rewards are more effective than long term rewards.
6. Child actions usually reflect what they have been taught.  Whining and fits usually get more response than soft request.)
7. Parents need to be able to say; "I am sorry", "I was wrong".
8. when children say, "I'm sorry" or "forgive me", reply "you're forgiven", not "It's OK".
9. Be consistent with love, rules, discipline and punishment.
10. Love them enough to discipline them.
11. It is always easier to ignore than to address.
12. make your children wait and not interrupt you.
13. Give more yes's than no's
14. Don' criticize your children, especially in front of others.
15. meet their love language need. (touch, quality time, acts of service, gift giving, affirmations)
16. Try to identify what they are really saying, not what they are screaming.
17. Speak truth.  Don't make up lies to often issues.
18. Too much TV or computer games equal brain cloud (grumpy, sassy, etc.)
19. Be forgiving.
20. Be gracious.
21. Play with them.
22. Hold them.
23. Your teenage daughter will get love from some man, somehow.  Let it be fdad for now.
24. Take your kids on dates.
25. Boys need their dad's time.
26. Girls need their dad's time.
27. Don't overpressure for performance.  You will create perfectionist, pretender, or a sloth.
28. The first few years are critical for bonding.  Many life long traits are formed here.
29. Never raise your voice in anger to your child.
30. Give your child quality time.
31. Stop, look and listen to your child.
32. First time obedience is a must .  Teach them this concept.
33. Yes is yes and No is no.
34. Never argue with your child.
35. Allow your child a voice and an appeal, but not an argument.
36. Dads to no let your sons speak disrespectful to their mother!
37. Place your child's need above your own.  Don't be selfish with them.
38. Take appropriate time for yourself.  Set boundaries.
39. Your spouse come first then the children.  (Don't put them in the center of your marriage)
40. Have fun with your kids.
41. Be creative with your kids.
42. Teach them the value of money.
43. Stand firm on biblical mandates, but be very careful with rules and convictions that are your own, not necessarily mandates from God.
44. Love your child unconditionally.  Don't place stipulations on your love.
45. Forgive, love and grant mercy the way God does it, generously.
46. Allow your children to practice flying so that when they leave the nest they soar.
47. Children view God the way they view their dad.
48. Children will view the church the way they view their mom.
49. Show your children how God views the church.
50. The best gift a dad can give his children is to love their mother.

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Chicken Casserole

Chicken Casserole

M. Lynn

1 can cream of mushroom soup (can use reduced fat) 1 stick margarine 2 c. uncooked rice 2 c. chicken broth 1 whole chicken (can use half)* salt, pepper, & minced onion to taste

1. Boil chicken until done.  Debone, discarding fat and bones; reserving broth.
2. Melt margarine, pour into 2-3 qt. casserole dish with cover.  Add soup, broth, salt, pepper, and minced onion.  Stir together.
3. Add chicken and uncooked rice.  Stir to thoroughly combine.  cover and cook in 300 degree oven for 2 hours.  Turn off oven and allow rice to steam until ready to serve.  makes 6-8 servings.

*Note:  The original recipe called for a whole chicken.  You can use 1/2 of the meat which is about 2 cups.  You can freeze the rest for another casserole.

If you have an automatic feature on your oven, start the casserole when you go to church and it will be ready when you get home!

Home and Ministry

This discussion was taken from the Sara's Daughters group at Ambassador Baptist College on April 19, 2005.

Home and Ministry

Introductory Thoughts:  "Every wise woman buildeth her house..." Proverbs 14:1

There is no greater joy in life than that of serving the Lord.  Giving of our time and talents is rewarding and brings tremendous blessing.  As we give our lives in service, indeed, our life is richer, and we realize fulfillment.  In Psalms 17:11, David says, "In they presence is fullness of joy; at Thy right hand there are pleasures forevermore."  The world seeks for joy in all the wrong places, but as a christian, we know that joy comes from a right relationship with the Lord.  It is important that we prayerfully seek God's will for our lives, in the big things and in the little things.  As women in a cosmopolitan world, it can be difficult to keep a "scriptural focus"  on exactly what our responsibilities should be.  However, the Lord is not confused at all.  His desire is that we keep a right relationship with Him, be a godly wife, a loving mother, a creative homemaker, and be a blessing in our local church.  Each responsibility is to be kept in balance.  Each responsibility is to be done with, "...our reasonable service...proving what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God." Romans 12;1b and 2b.

Thoughts About the Home:

• Our home is the very "special" place where our family is refreshed.
• From our homes come the spiritual leaders for tomorrow.
• We have the privilege of raising missionaries, pastors, evangelists, Sunday School teachers, etc.
• Being married, taking care of children, and organizing a home is a full time job, and requires tons of energy and creativity.
• Being a great mom requires time, patience, and lots of prayer.
• Being a great homemaker requires energy, hard work, and lots of creativity.
• If you accomplish all three of these, your family will, "...arise and call you blesses," and heaven will rejoice."

Proverbs 31:31 "Give her of the fruit of her hands,
and let her own works praise her in the gates."

Thoughts About the Ministry:

• Ladies, we live in a world that makes u think we need to have careers, put our children in day care and order supper "in" every evening.  The worldly idea is promoted that we should be tough, in charge, and as capable as any man.
• As a husband enters the ministry, worldly thinking will cause us to ignore our God given responsibilities.
• Don't be duped with having to have "glory and glitz" in the ministry.
• The church hires the husband, not the wife or the children.
• A wife, who forgets her place, will cause unneeded stress in the home and many times in the church.
• We are not to become the assistant pastor, or head of the deacons, or a mouthpiece for the pastor.
• To be involved in activities at church that the duties of the home and children are neglected is sin.
• To be involved with the home and children that there is not time for serving at church is sin.

God expects, "...our reasonable service,..." Romans 12:1-2

General Thoughts:

• Keep a balance.
• Enjoy what you are doing.
• Remember that time moves on very quickly.
• Cherish the moments with your children.
• Be a gentle, sweet, mom.
• Make home a fun place.
• Have regular, "special times" with your husband.
• Work hard at keeping a close relationship with the Lord.
• Allow the Lord to use your talents and abilities.
• Always remember that "...'I' must decrease and 'He' must increase," John 3:30
• We are to have the attitude of a servant, no matter how big the task.

Never forget that "...For whomsoever much is given,
of him shall be much required..." Luke 12:48

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Macaroni and Cheese Casserole

Macaroni and Cheese Casserole

-J. Deatrick

8 oz. noodles, cooked and drained (lots of salt) 12 oz. sharp cheddar cheese 1 can evaporated milk 2 eggs salt and pepper

1. Mix together evaporated milk, 2 eggs, salt and pepper.  Stir well.
2. Layer noodles and cheese twice in a 13 x 9 pan.  Pour milk mixture evenly over top.
3. Bake at 450 degrees for 20-25 minutes.

Creamy Chicken Delight

Creamy Chicken Delight

- J. Deatrick

1 pint whipping cream 2 cans cream of mushroom soup 1 lb. chicken breast

Mix whipping cream and soup together .  Pour over frozenchicken portions in  a 9x13 pan.  Bake at 350 degrees for 1-1 1/2 hours.  (Decrease time for smaller chicken portions.)

More Household Tips

Here are some things that can be great tools when doing housework:

• 
  
  Microfiber clothes-great for dusting and washing windows

• 
  
  White vinegar-great for whitening clothes,  taking mud out, using as a spray for all purpose cleaner

• 
  
  Magic eraser-great for smudge marks on floors and walls

• 
  
  Sponge mop-great tool for cleaning the bathtub- able to stand up and clean

• 
  
  Lightweight vacuum cleaner-If you have back or neck trouble as I do this is one of the best tools to use.  It is bagless, so you just empty it and clean the filter.  It is so light and easy to push.

• 
  
  Clean dust mop-great for running over the ceilings in order to dust them and to get all those icky cob webs.

• 
  
  Water spray bottle- Keep near ironing and dryer.  If clothes are in dryer a little too long just spray and hang.  More wrinkles will fall out. 

• 
  
  Spray laundry stain remover.  Treat clothes as soon as they get stained.  Spray on collars and cuffs.  Usually does the trick for regular stains