Ungodly Clutter by Monica Mynk

We recently returned from a teen lectureship and I've been thinking a lot about how I can do more for God in several areas of my life. I know keeping you up to date on great new books written by Christian authors is a full-time effort, but it is worth it! (And one I need to work at.) It is wonderful to know that someone looking for a study book can find one here. Or, if a sister needs to get away from it all and disappear into a book, she can find a clean read from fellow Christian authors.

I am uncertain who still follows COCWA, but if you're out there, I want to thank you. And, if you have a moment check out Ungodly Clutter by Monica Mynk!


About Ungodly Clutter:

"Have you ever been embarrassed to invite someone into your home? Cobwebs in the corners? Laundry piled to the ceiling? Mile-high dishes in the sink? If it’s true that cleanliness is next to godliness, does that mean those of us too stressed and over-worked to maintain a clean home are ungodly?
Perhaps, God would be appalled to enter many of our homes... but not for the reasons we might think! Today’s world is full of distractions and many litter our living space without us giving them a second thought.
How can Christian women cleanse their homes of the idols and temptations that hinder salvation?"

What is the church of Christ?

The church of Christ is God’s institution. It is not man-made. It has existed on Earth since it was instituted after Christ’s death. It began at the first Pentecost, as recorded in Acts 2.

God planned for the church from the beginning of time. We see that in Genesis 3:15, Daniel 2, and Isaiah 53.

The Church is God’s!

Unto the church of God which is at Corinth, to them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, with all that in every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both their's and our's. (I Corinthians 1:2)

It is the body of Christ. 

And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence. (Colossians 1:18,24)

It is God’s kingdom.

Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. (John 3:5)

It is the house of God.

But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth. (I Timothy 3:15)

Who founded the church of Christ?

Christ founded the church somewhere around A.D. 33. The church of Christ you see in your town is a congregation of believers that try to follow the pattern set forth in the Bible. We are autonomous of other congregations of the Lord’s church. We have no central man-made head, or council, or synod. We only follow Christ, and we learn of Christ through his word, the Bible.

Christ is the head of the church 

And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church, Which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all. (Ephesians 1:22-23)

We do Bible things, Bible ways. We are happy. We are kind, and we are in Christ where all spiritual blessings are found! (Ephesians 1:3) What could be better? NOTHING! We want you to know the peace that comes from being in Christ. (Philippians 4:7)

Can you imagine someone dying for you? Someone who loved you so much that they took upon your sin as their own? That’s what Christ did.

Christ died for the church!

Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish. (Ephesians 5:25-27)

Because he died for us, we can have salvation! Christ didn’t just die for those who believe on him. He has died for all of us. To be welcome at his feast we must accept the invitation he offers. It’s his church, so it’s his invitation. No man can set the terms to enter into the church. We do not have that right, or authority. Christ alone is head, and he alone sets the terms.

Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved. (Acts 4:12)

Who can be members of the church of Christ?

Everyone is welcome to be added to the church Christ built. (Acts 2:47) We do not vote to decide if you can be a member. We do not wait for you to have some kind of feeling, or an epiphany. All you have to do is obey the pure gospel as taught by Christ and his apostles. That’s all! Nothing magical. Everyone can be a Christian, and God wants all men to come to repentance. (II Peter 3:9)

How to be a member of the church that Christ built.

Hear the gospel

How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things! But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Esaias saith, Lord, who hath believed our report? So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. (Romans 10: 14-17)

Believe the gospel

I said therefore unto you, that ye shall die in your sins: for if ye believe not that I am he, ye shall die in your sins. (John 8:24)

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. (Hebrews 11:1,6)

Repent and be converted

I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish. (Luke 13:3)

And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent: (Acts 17:30)

Confess that Jesus Christ is the son of God

Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven. But whosoever shall deny me before men, him will I also deny before my Father which is in heaven. (Matthew 10:32-33)

That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. (Romans 10:9,10)

Be baptized into Christ for the remission of sins

For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. (Galatians 3:26-27)

Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. (Acts 2:38)

So, now you know. Be like the Bereans and study to see that these things are so (Acts 17:11). We hope to see you at worship, and look forward to welcoming you as a brother and sister in Christ.

Redeemed: Bought Back No Matter the Cost by Kristy Huntsman

Redeemed: Bought Back No Matter The Cost: A Study of Hosea

So many people love the Finer Grounds Series Bible Studies, and I know just as many people love the site Come Fill Your Cup which gave birth to the finer grounds studies. This book, Redeemed: Bought Back No Matter the Cost, is written by Kristy Huntsman and is an awesome study of Hosea. Hosea isn't a book we often dig into, but it is powerful and pertinent for today's Christian. If you're unfamiliar with these books, why not give them a try?

"Redeemed: Bought Back No Matter the Cost (A Study of Hosea) Do you ever feel complacency creeping into your life with Christ? Do you find yourself in worship services simply going through the motions? Join us as we embark on a journey to renew the heartfelt sincerity in our faith. Throughout the book of Hosea you will have front row seats to the greatest love story of all time: that of God and His people. Hosea was a simple man asked to do the unthinkable. God asked him to marry a prostitute so that through his marriage God could demonstrate the heartbreak the Israelite nation was causing Him. We will follow Hosea's tumultuous marriage to Gomer and examine how their relationship mirrors the relationship we share with Christ. We will see God as a loving husband who was willing to send His son to die for us so that we might be Redeemed: Bought Back No Matter The Cost." (Amazon)

Women of Scandal by Cindy Colley

I have thoroughly enjoyed the Crown of Creation series, and have used the first three books in two different ladies classes. I am so excited that there is a third book in the series available. (I just have to add that I love this cover. It is so striking!)

About Women of Scandal:

"Are we living in the worst of times? Take a peek into the shocking lives of women of Old Testament kings. A sampling of the most appalling are atrocious parenting, rape, murder, incest, jealousy, and adultery. Queens, concubines, and maidens in distress illustrate topics such as ''A Pawn in a Death Wish,'' ''Royal but Not Loyal,'' and ''Kids at Risk.'' 13 chapters, including questions to stimulate Bible study and class participation." (Publishing Designs)

Women of Scandal is available from Amazon and Publishing Designs.

If you're new to the series make sure to check out her other books:

Women of the Genesis
Women of Deliverance
Women of Troubled Times

Rising from the Ashes

(C) Diaforia

When I was a child my grandfather told me when you fall off of a horse to get back on. I guess you could say on January 1, 2016 I fell off of a horse. In the last six months my family has been through the ringer and back again. So many things have changed. My hubs is no longer able to work, and I have become a caregiver as well as a wife. We have relocated back home to South Texas. My Granny (really my second mom passed), my son moved out and stayed in Virginia, my middle child graduated high school, and recently my parents have moved in to help me out. Even though so many things have changed in the last few months, this blog has always been in the back of my mind because I love it.

I can now say that we have finally settled into our new home and our new routine. I've even been given the opportunity to teach two ladies classes and I have an upcoming speaking engagement. As things continue to return to normal I want to get back into this blog. I miss everyone who I've met through it, and I really miss introducing readers to new books. So, today is the day I arise from the ashes of our old life and start this blog anew!

I want to assure everyone that the anthology will still be out this year. In fact, it is currently at the top of my to do list. If you've submitted to it please know I haven't forgotten. I also plan to start recording my Youtube devos again this week or next. So, I hope you will tune in. (If you have a new book out and would like to do an interview please let me know!)

Thanks to everyone who has written me, prayed for my family and encouraged me in the last few months. I also want to thank you for giving me the chance to rebuild this blog. It means so much to me. 

Susan

A Heartfelt Thank You After a Disastrous New Year

I want to wish you all a happy New Year! I would like to say mine has been all giggles and smiles, but New Year's Day was one of the worst days of my life. My hubby of 20 years and six months (yep, the handsome guy in the photo taken a few days before New Year's) had a stroke.

He is currently in the ICU, and I still don't know much. I've been told that's pretty normal after a stroke, but it is so FRUSTRATING! I am just thankful that God has all things in his hands.

I know that there are many people praying for him and my family. I can't thank you enough. The past two days has really shown me how many friends and family we have. I had no idea.

The support we have had here in South Texas and at home in Virginia has been unbelievable. I can't thank all the people who have stepped up to help in ways that I never even thought possible.

I am hopeful that Larry will make a speedy recovery, but I am sure the next few days, weeks or months are going to be trying and difficult as he relearns how to do normal everyday tasks. I would like to continue to ask for your prayers as we go through this together.

It is my plan to continue running the Church of Christ Women Authors Blog and YouTube Channel, and I will do my best to post as often as I can; although, the next few weeks are going to by spotty.  I look forward to hearing from you and I hope you remember the book club books for January. I know I look forward to reading them again.

Thanks!

Susan

Update:

I want to update everyone about Larry and he said it would be fine to let you know. Larry has for certain suffered a stroke (I believe in the thalamus). It has left him with the loss of mobility on his left side. The information stored in that part of his brain is gone. There is no way to tell what all that entails at this point in time. He may or may not have all of his memories; although, he has recognized and recounted stories with many people here and on the phone. Only time will tell what damage or loss there is.

He will be entering rehab in South Texas -- we hope Rockport -- when he gets out of the hospital. He will be there at least two weeks, and at sometime after that we will be able to travel the long trip home. (It will have to be an extended return, so I don't know exactly when we will get back in Virginia after we leave here.) We are playing everything by ear at this point. He is also now insulin dependent, so friends who like to bake goodies and all, no more for now until we get this under control. I want to thank everyone for the prayers and the continued prayers.

Exclusive Finer Grounds Sale from Kaio Publications

I just got this message from Kaio Publications on the Church of Christ Women Authors Page on Facebook. It looked pretty cool, so I thought I would share it. (THIS OFFER IS ONLY GOOD FOR A LIMITED TIME. Special ends Sunday, November 8th!)

Follow the link to the Church of Christ Women Authors Page (Click: here.) and follow the promo directions from Kaio Publications. If you haven't liked the Church of Christ Women Authors Page, make sure to do that while you're there!

--Susan

(Oh and make sure you check out the blog post about Sanctified: Set Apart for a Purpose! A Study of 1 &2 Peter by Kristy Huntsman.)

From Kaio:

WHO DOESN'T LOVE A GREAT DEAL?!? This week Kaio Publications is offering a FALL SPECIAL you can't pass up! By simply following the FALL SPECIAL rules (below), you will receive a discount on any item in the FINER GROUNDS ladies Bible study series!!! (This includes the books Sanctified, Redeemed, Perfected)

Here is how it works:

FALL SPECIAL

1) Like & Share this link AND...
2) Tag your friends on this link AND...

*FOR EVERY 5+ PEOPLE YOU TAG, YOU WILL A RECEIVE 5% DISCOUNT OFF YOUR TOTAL ORDER!

**FOR EVERY 10+ PEOPLE YOU TAG, YOU WILL A RECEIVE 10% OFF DISCOUNT YOUR TOTAL ORDER!!

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(The maximum discount per order is 15% total)

NOW IS THE TIME TO GET YOUR BULK ORDER!

You can visit www.kaiopublications.org for product information, but in order to receive the discount, you must email joe@kaiopublications.org with order details.

Special ends Sunday, November 8th!

PLEASE HELP US SPREAD THE WORD!

You Can Be Blessed Beyond Measure

(c) Charles Elliott

What a blessing to be up today and to see the sun rays bouncing off the leaves. It’s starting to get colder and the leaves are changing. It is truly beautiful! I look at the world around me and see how much I’ve been given. I have a family, friends, and a beautiful place to live. But, amidst all the beauty and love in my life there is one blessing that stands out above the others. One blessing that I have that is wonderful beyond measure. It is a blessing that is offered to the entire world, but unfortunately most people turn their back on it, even those who think they have reached a hold of life eternal. (Matthew 7:13-14) What is this blessing you ask? I am a New Testament Christian -- just like those you read about in the Bible.  Are you?

The Church

You may have asked yourself where can I find the New Testament church that I read about in the Bible? After all, there are over 33,000 denominations in this world. How can I find the church in all its simplicity, that teaches only what the Bible teaches, that adheres to the New Testament pattern of worship,  that doesn't use a creed book or have councils and uses the Bible only? Would it surprise you to learn that there is a New Testament church that even predates the Catholic church? Now, it is true that the Catholic church teaches that it began in the first century, and that may be true to some extent; however, even their name suggests apostasy.

The New Testament clearly states what Christ wanted his church to be called. It’s important to note that every name listed shows to whom his church belongs. The church is Christ’s and his alone. 

Examples of Bible Names:

Church of God Acts 20:28
Church of the Living God I Timothy 3:15
Church of the Firstborn Hebrews 12:23
Church of Christ Romans 16:16

Notice that Catholic, which means universal, isn’t even on the short list. The Catholic church abandoned New Testament worship, organization and beliefs before they even held their first council in Nicea in 325 (which, by the way, is a practice not authorized in the scripture). If you’re unsure what I said is true, read your Bible and then compare it to the teachings of the Catholic church. Please don’t take my word for it.

An apostasy is mentioned in the New Testament, and it was already starting as early as the first century. Notice 2 Peter 2:1, Jude 1:4, 2 Timothy 4:3, 4.  The Catholic church is a result of that apostasy. How do I know this? Simple. They don’t follow the teachings found in the New Testament. Any body of people who call themselves Christians will fall into the category of apostates if they don’t follow the New Testament pattern – even if they have the proper name on the door.

New Testament Pattern

So, where is this New Testament church that teaches the whole counsel of God? And, how can I know if where I go to worship is that New Testament church (aside from the name)?
Well, it’s really not hard to decide if the church you attend is God’s church. He gave us a pattern in the New Testament. Ask yourself does the place I attend follow the New Testament pattern of the Bible? Do we do things in Bible ways? Do we speak where the Bible speaks and are silent where the Bible is silent? If so, fantastic! If not, you need to look somewhere else.

A couple of years ago an acquaintance told me that she was glad she didn’t have to study the Bible to know what God wanted it would just be too hard, she needed bullet points – and she got those from her pastor. Now, if you aren’t interested in studying the Bible for yourself, you are putting a lot of confidence in one person; not to mention the fate of your soul, because God commands us to study.

The Key to Salvation is in Your Hands

As much as I love my preacher (he’s my hubby) I’m not going to put my salvation in his hands. I’m going to study to shew myself approved unto God, and I am going to rightly divide the word of truth. (2 Timothy 2:15, 2 Timothy 3:16:17) I suggest to you that you must not put the fate of your soul in the hands of anyone, but rest upon God, and study for yourself what the scriptures teach. We are all human and we all make mistakes.

With that said, I am providing you a list of bullet points below, in case you’re new to studying. Take those bullet points and look the scriptures up, and study them. I am confident you will see exactly what the scriptures teach and you will see for yourself the New Testament pattern.

New Testament Pattern for Becoming a Christian 
Check out the Article What Must I Do to Be Saved by clicking: here.

Hear: Romans 10: 14-17, Luke 11:28,
Believe: Acts 8:37, John 6:35, Hebrews 11:6, John 8:24
Repent of Sins: Acts 2:38, Acts 3:19, Luke 13:5
Confess that Jesus is the son of God: Romans 10:9-10, Acts 8:37, Matthew 10:32-34
Be baptized for the remission of sins: John 3:5-8, Acts 2:28, I Peter 3:21, Romans 6:4, Galatians 3:27

New Testament Pattern for Worship
We are to sing: Colossians 3:16, Ephesians 5:19
We are to pray: I Corinthians 14: 15, 16
We are to take of the Lord’s Supper EVERY first day of the week: Acts 20:7
Sermon and Scripture Reading: Colossians 4:16, Acts 20:7
Giving (a freewill offering of what we have prospered in our heart – not a tithe): I Corinthians 16:2

I hope you too can say that you are blessed beyond measure, because you are a part of Christ's body and belong to the New Testament church for which he died. After reading this post, you may have questions. If you do, please feel free to Email me at churchofchristwomenauthors@gmail.com.

More Resources:
Divine Acceptable Pattern for Worship Part 1
Divine Acceptable Pattern for Worship Part 2 
Muscle and a Shovel by Michael Shank

Women Talk Men Walk by Dr. Wyveta Kirk

About Women Talk Men Walk: 

"Many women expect a man to respond like her girlfriend. But he can't. A man can't think like a woman - and he can't help that he can't. Few men enjoy long emotional talks like a woman does, but they do value connecting in other ways. She can learn to recognize his special love signals. Hormones clarify why men and women respond differently to the same situation and how they are part of God's plan for complimentary relationships. Remember, God created Eve from Adam's rib, not his brain cells. Women Talk Men Walk is a 9-1-1 answer for having a sizzling relationship by decoding a woman's words to fit her man's heart." (Amazon)


Dr. Wyveta Kirk is a psychologist, ladies day speaker, and former college instructor. She has written numerous books (non-fiction and fiction) and is currently working on another one.

Let's welcome Dr. Kirk to the Church of Christ Woman Authors blog!

Straddling the Fence: The Danger of Compromise by Anita Whitaker

Straddling the Fence

"Compromising one's morality, character, influence, tolerance of sin, and commitment. These are a few of many dangerous darts hurled at young women. This book exposes addiction lures, dating traps, gossip pools, and other dangers in a concise manner. Chapter Questions."

I bought this book several years ago, but it is as relevant today as it was then. I've always wanted to use it for a teen girls class. I wholly recommend this book for teens and women.

This book is only available through Publishing Designs.



What topics do you believe we should be discussing with our teens?

Magnetic Poetry Words: A Successful Tool for Teaching Teens to Write Poetry

One thing I love doing more than most anything is teaching high school students creative writing. I can not describe the joy it brings me to hear how their minds think and how they create. I love to watch their eyes light up as they see the words they've written, and the confidence they acquire once they realize they can be writers.

It may seem harsh, but all students in my creative writing classes are required to participate. They are also required to read what they've written before their peers -- believe me I know it's difficult to read what you've written, but they can do it! By the end of classes, the students are reading with confidence.

I typically teach flash fiction and use writing prompts in my classes. I've always wanted to teach poetry, but the boys (more often than the girls) complain and moan about writing poetry. Since I want to keep the students engaged, I've been skipping the poetry lesson -- until now.

Recently, I started playing with the magnetic poetry set my husband bought me for my birthday. I've had it for years locked in it's original bottle. I guess I was a little leery to open it, but I am so glad I did. I enjoyed using it so much that I started writing a lot of poetry with those words.

At first I found it difficult, but with time I realized that the beauty of the exercise was not just in the finished poem, but the journey it took to get there. Writing this way takes a little longer, but it is well-worth it. (By the way, you still have to edit.)

I decided before my first creative writing class of this semester, that for the very first class I was teaching poetry. I printed out several pages of words. (I created one and used a pre-made printable word list.) And, my daughters and I cut them out and placed them in Ziploc baggies.

I took the words to class and the students used them. There were no complaints, and two students even asked to take a bag of words home (both boys!) One of my students wrote three poems in class, and a couple of students decided they would use the words to write some flash fiction, too. All in all the exercise was real success.

I have an old set of words which still work great, but I've found a couple of magnetic poetry sets that I want to get in the future. The first is the Edgar Allan Poet Kit -- which looks like it would be a lot of fun, and really useful for teaching teens. It is a "box of words filled with mystery and fear."

I think using this with a lesson on Poe's poetry like the Raven. Would be awesome!

Another poetry set that I have on my wish list is the Nature Poet Magnetic Poetry Kit. I enjoy writing a lot of nature poetry, and like I said I have really grown to love these kits.

These sets are also good idea generators. Sometimes I see a word that I've not considered for a subject, and the words just flow. If you haven't used them in the past, I hope you consider giving them a try!



Bare Feet

Encompassed in trees
here I stand
breathing the beauty
of this wooded land.

At peace with myself,
I stand free to dream.
So slipping off shoes,
I run through the green.

My burdened soul’s uplifted
in the pale morn light,
a new day has broken,
gone is the night.

My tightly tethered heart
has grown white silken wings
and flies through the sky
up where the jay sings

(c) Susan Elliott


Have you ever used a magnetic poetry kit?

Book of the Month Club The Treasured Woman: Profiles from Proverbs 31 by Christa Bryant Week 2 Discussion

The Treasured Woman: Profiles from Proverbs 31

Chapter Four (My Thoughts)

When I examine life, one the greatest treasures I have is that my children and husband are all Christians. I truly know what a blessing it is, and I also know that is not something every sister in Christ can say.

Chapter four really stresses the importance of the seed we plant in our children. Instilling the love of God in a child at a young age goes a long way to their being faithful as an adult.

Christa stated "The greatest way to convince our children of the love of God is not in some program or curriculum; the greatest way to convince our children is to be convinced ourselves." Would that my brothers and sisters would understand that simple lesson! I have seen many people stress over the next new program "so our children will be engaged," and never even consider the example they are living in front of their child. We must practice what we preach if we are going to show our children how much God and his church truly means to us.

Chapter Five (My Thoughts)

Reaching out to the poor and less fortunate to fill earthly needs is very important. The old adage that states a person doesn't care what you know until they know how much you care is very true. We must spend our time helping others when possible. There are people all around us who are sick, dying and poor. Many of them are living in sin, and without our hands to help them up and point the way to Christ they may never obey the gospel.

I have often heard well-meaning brethren ask, "What if I help someone and they do something wrong, keep coming back, or are just using me?" Typically this is asked when helping a person involves our own pocket book or the church treasury. The best answer I can offer is to remind us that helping a person is not wrong, and we should always err on the side of right.

I remember a couple stopping by the church building when we were at our first preaching position. My husband and I were both in our early twenties and had a very low monthly income. Usually money requests were talked about with the elders, but we were the only people at the building. The couple asked for money for groceries and we gave them as much as we could.

About thirty-minutes later we saw the man and woman walking out of the convenience store with a case of beer. At first I was angry, because we gave money out of our grocery budget so another family could have food and they bought alcohol. But, the more I thought about it, the more I was ashamed over my anger.

We had done what was right. At the time, I didn't know if the people were telling me the truth or not when they asked for money, but I knew they were asking, and I had the opportunity to help them.

God knew that we had given them money for food, but what they did with it was out of our control and on their heads. We could have used this experience to prevent us from ever helping someone again, but that's not what happened. Any time we can help someone we do, and I'd like to encourage you to do so, too.

Always pay attention to those around you. You will find so many people in need. Stay observant. I know a Christian woman who saw a woman crying at the gas pump. So she went and asked the lady what was the matter. The crying woman had accidentally forgotten her purse at home and didn't know how she was going to pay for her gas. So, the Christian woman paid for it.

I know another instance where a woman and her daughter were broken down on the side of the road. They were traveling and were several hundred miles away from home and didn't have any money to spare. A family stopped and offered help, but the car needed a mechanic. This family gave the women a ride to the closest motel and paid for them to stay a night. When the ladies asked what they could do in return, the man told them when they have the opportunity to stop in to visit their local church of Christ. A seed was planted.

There are so many opportunities to help people if we just pay attention. 

Chapter Six (My Thoughts)

Prioritizing. Christa points out, and rightly so, we can not "trade being over-worked for hard work."  I am certain I am not the only person who sometimes has this problem. Often it seems that I have a perpetual hand in the air waving saying pick me, pick me. I'll do it."

We must learn to prioritize our lives (me included.) We must also remember that doing good works for the Lord does not mean we do EVERY good work. I heard someone say that if we are doing every good work that goes on in a congregation, we probably aren't doing our best work at any of them. So, I would encourage you to choose things you feel passionate about and do those things.

As a preacher's wife, I know what it means to be pulled in every direction. It often seems that the preacher's wife is expected to be involved with everything a congregation does. If this is you, STOP! Choose a few good works that your are passionate about and do those with all your might, but learn to say no.

If you're not a preacher's wife and you've expected your preacher's wife to take up all the extra slack. You need to re-evaluate your thinking, and then see what you can do to help her.

Together, we as women can work hard for the Lord, and through doing so we can plant the seed for the kingdom. I want to challenge you to plant those seeds, help people in need and work hard for the cause of Christ.

I'm loving this study! Aren't you?

--Susan


What other things did you take from this weeks readings?

Heart to Heart: Devotional Thoughts for Women Volume 2 by Heather Pryor

Heart to Heart: Devotional Thoughts for Women (Volume 2)

"Covering topics such as hospitality, sanctifying yourself, handling hurt feelings, perspective, getting more out of Bible study and how to get ducks out of your attic, this devotional book is written from one woman's heart to yours in order to encourage you, make you smile, and draw you closer to the Lord."

Have you read the original Heart to Heart: Devotional Thoughts for Women?

Make sure to check out Heather Pryor's Meet the Author Page!



I've had the opportunity to spend some time with Heather and I can't wait to study her books!


What books have you been studying?

Over Ten Thousand Page Views and Counting

The first thing I have to say today is THANK YOU! I have hit my first mile marker with Church of Christ Women Authors Blog. Today this blog has exceeded 10,000 page views! It is because of you the authors and you the readers that this blog is becoming a success, and truly from the bottom of my heart, thank you.

If you've just located the Church of Christ Women Authors Blog you may not know that this blog started July 15, 2015. I had already started the page and group Church of Christ Women Authors on Facebook, when someone suggested we have a catalog of books.

Well, I had no funds to make a catalog, but I knew I wanted to keep on helping all church of Christ women authors succeed, so I clicked on Blogger, created the blog, and I guess the rest is history. In the last couple of months this blog has become my baby, and I am so excited to watch it grow.

So, with that said, if you are a women author who is a member of the church of Christ, let me know and I will do a blog post about you and a link to your books. Also, keep an eye open for new authors and new books, as well as writing tips, articles and book sales.

Thanks again, and I am so happy to be able to talk to you every day through this blog!


THANK YOU!!!

When Shovels Break by Michael Shank

This is just one of those books I had to share. If you haven't read When Shovels Break you need to. It was written for Christians who have fallen away, and it is moving mountains getting the erring to come back to Christ.

When Shovels Break: (sequel to Muscle and a Shovel)

"This is a true story about John - a Christian man who is at the brink of suicide. Struggles, discouragement, and John's improper expectations of what God was "supposed" to do for his life caused John to leave his faith and the Lord's body, the church.

John went back into every form of sin imaginable: alcoholism, drug abuse, adultery, and pornography - just as a dog returns to its vomit. John's shame and guilt, his failure to provide for his family, and the loss of all hope that God could ever forgive him brings John to a terrifying moment... holding a shotgun to his chin. He starts to pull the trigger...

Can God forgive this wretch of a man? Is it possible for John to be restored and to be able to return to Jesus Christ? This raw, gritty, true story grabs the reader from beginning to end. It is a story about the real life of a discouraged Christian, and it is a story of hope, love, and the redemption found through the grace of God!

Be prepared – this story will shock you. When Shovels Break is the sequel to Muscle and a Shovel. It is a true, candid, and raw story about a Christian couple who falls away from the Lord, their faith, and the Lord’s church; returning to a world of sin far worse than before their conversion. This true story, written in novel form, addresses the seriousness of Christians who fall away, the possibility of God's love, His grace and His incredible forgiveness!" (Amazon)


From Church of Christ Women Authors

It's easy to see that the world is in a mess. We must open our hearts and teach others the gospel of Christ. We must. Sometimes teaching our family and friends is extremely difficult, but it can be done.  Michael Shank wrote his book Muscle and a Shovel as a tool to convert people to Christ, and it works. I am planning to buy several of them for my family members for Christmas this year.

I have a friend back home who studied the book with her mother, and yesterday her mother was baptized for the remission of sins. It is a beautiful, soul-searching book, and it is a MUST read! I couldn't put it down, and I hope you don't either!

If you don't have a kindle app you can get a free one here: Amazon.com - Read eBooks using the FREE Kindle Reading App on Most Devices

Have you read either of these books?

The Treasured Woman by Christa Bryant Book of the Month Club Reading Discussion Week One

If you're reading along with me you already know that the first three chapters of The Treasured Woman are fantastic! I want to thank Christa Bryant for writing this book. It is full of wisdom that so many of us have forgotten.

Chapter One: The Proverbs 31 Woman

In chapter one Christa covers the account of the Proverbs woman in great detail. She encourages readers to list the admirable qualities of the Proverbs woman that they would most like to adopt into their lifestyle, and encourages readers with a call to action. Woman are asked to explore how to instill these admirable traits into their lives. She also challenges readers to examine their own lives to see what specific characteristics of the Proverbs woman they can improve upon.

Chapter Two: Mary, Mother of Jesus

Chapter two is an account of Mary's conception and concentrates on God knowing what kind of heart we have which leads to "her husband can safely trust in her." This is an immensely important topic for today's culture. Somehow, we (in general) have lost the truth that a husband and wife are a team. They want what's best for each other, and will work hard to make the other one happy.

I believe our society has a lot to do with the current climate of misunderstanding of the marriage relationship, and that has permeated into the Lord's church. We as wives must remember something I was taught long ago. God, husband, then children. As Christa concludes, a worthy woman who trusts in God will love him with all her heart, love her husband and want what's good for him -- which includes caring for his children.


Chapter Three: Mary and Martha

"Is this a good decision for my family and can I honor God by the choice I make?" This question is probably the most important question Christa tackles in chapter three. As Christian women we must consider the decisions we make. Christa encourages us to pick up our Bibles and read it, because through it we know what God's will is for our lives.

As a women who has been a Christian for 20+ years I can say that there have been times I needed to study my Bible much more, and there have been times I have drank up the word. Years of study has truly made my decision making process much easier, because I know what God wants in every situation I find myself. I know how he wants me to dress. I know that he wants me to be at worship (even if there are secular events scheduled, or family is in.) I know God wants my dedication to him above all us.

Christa shows the importance of  our dedication to God and why we most hone our decision making skills to the pattern of God's word.


Thank you Christa!


What have your learned from chapters one through three?

Style Your Life Planner by Brittany Davis

About Style Your Life Planner:

"If you fail to plan…well you know how the rest goes, you plan to fail. Proverbs 16:9 says, “A man’s heart plans his way,

but the Lord directs his steps.”

This planner is not your average planner! It will help you style your life in almost every area imaginable by setting and executing goals with soul.

Inside you’ll find:

*12 guides to style your finances, relationships, faith, forgiveness, time, style and more!

*Journal pages for goals and steps to implement.

*Scriptures to guide you in each area.

*Pages for notes and ideas.

*Worksheets and much more!

Complete one chapter a month or style your life all at once. When you finish this planner you’ll have a roadmap to live your best spiritual and physical life! Get peace of mind, clear your calendar and be like the virtuous woman with no worries of the future.

Don’t let any more time go by with wishes and hopes take action and use this planner to design your destiny." (Virtuous Magazine)


Don't forget to check out Brittany Davis' Meet the Author Page!


What do you use your planner for?

Sometimes There's a Book That Takes The World by Storm: Muscle and a Shovel by Michael Shank

About Muscle and a Shovel:

"Muscle and a Shovel is a raw and gritty true story about a pair of young newly-weds who move to the city to chase the American dream. In the process they're befriended by a man who turns their belief about God, their church, and their faith upside down! Baptists, Methodists, Presbyterians, Catholics, the Community Churches - none are spared when Truth is at stake and their new friend Randall isn't about to "candy coat" God's Word for the sake of "political correctness" or "religious tolerance." 

This story will grip you from opening to close and will stimulate your spirit on levels you didn't think possible. Get ready to fight or flee because Muscle and a Shovel is one of those rare books that will raise your heart-rate and your blood-pressure. You won't want to wait to share it with your friends or you'll want to dowse it in gasoline and set on fire! There'll be no middle ground. Many Christian reviewers have said, "This book will turn our current religious world upside-down!"(Amazon)

From Church of Christ Women Authors:

You may be asking yourself why a blog that caters to women writers who are members of the church of Christ is posting this book. It's obviously not written by a woman (although-- you might notice Christa Bryant, author of The Treasured Woman: Profiles from Proverbs 31 is the editor, (Check out her Meet the Author's Page).

From time to time there is a book that everyone needs to be aware of.  This is that book. I read it several months ago, after it was recommended by many friends. I will tell you that the first few pages had me in tears for joy. It is a beautiful book and is great for a gift for people who are not Christians. It not only points the way to Christ through a compelling read, it reminds us of our responsibility to teach those around us.

Everyone should own a copy of Muscle and a Shovel !



Have you read this book?