Summerissue2015 by FHP MAG

Forever Princess His

Summer2015

Letting Go(d) Letting go & Letting God.; a topic on surrender

Dear future husband Do I pray for my future husband?

bookish

Just a little

Including- some amazing book suggestions!

Lemonade

Mission Update:

Grenada

A peek into 1

Plus! -

Make your own slushie Easy Spinach Artichoke Dip

In this issue

Summer Issue // 2015 // Issue 3

ReadersCorner

HisPrincess -

Letting Go(d) | Pg 34 A God Girl Who Knows Love | Page 20 Of Vines and Christians | Page 8 Dear Future Husband | Pg 40

Readers Share: Dear Dad | Page 25 My Song – A Poem | Page 24 Not of This World | Pg 27 The Absolute Best – A Short Story | Pg 26

42 10

13 25 INEVERYiSSUE -

ExtraSpecials - Summer Lemonade and other recipes | Pg 12 - Overcoming Boredom | Pg 40 - Just A Little Bookish | Pg 18

New Word

This is a second longest word in the English language!

Floccinaucinihilipilification

Noun or Verb: rare, the estimation of something as valueless Pronunciation: Flok-sug-naw-suh-nahy-hil-uh-pil-uh-fi-key-shuhn

In a sentence: Noun: When most people hear of the word floccinaucinihilipilification, they consider it to be a useless word â&#x20AC;&#x201C; used mainly as an example of the longest word in the English language.

Try using this word in a sentence sometime this month!

4 Photography Credit: Rosa Yoder

We are

Women who are striving to find the heartbeat of God. We want our hearts to break for what breaks our Father’s. We are living the mundane in a not-so mundane way because we’ve got Jesus right by our side. We live, love, and laugh, knowing that it’s the small things that make the differences. We delight in seeing God’s work in our lives. We live in Him and His very being. We recognize our deepest need of Him. And we invite Him in as our only Father. He is the reason for our every second. He is the one we lift up and honor. Our desire is to pass this on to others. 5 Please do not copy or reproduce any part of Forever His Princess without written expressed permission.

No matter who or what

Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;redesiring

At this time in your life, There is no one and

nothing Co-Editor

That will satisfy you Like your relationship with

Christ. Guest Writers:

Forever his Princess Bringing young ladies closer to her King

Chief Editor: - Elisa Knicely

Co Editor: - Elesa Stoltzfus

Staff Writer: - Dorcas Yoder

Photographers: - Rosa Yoder - Jessica Wingard

Guest Writers: -

Victoria Martin Debra Burkholder Destinee Stoltzfus Anna Duncan Crystal Kennell

Guest Photographers: guest writer I hail from the Finger Lakes region of New York where one source says we have 11,000 acres of grapes. Picking grapes is one of the things I Cover Photo: Elisa Knicely enjoy doing as well as teaching first grade, spending time with my nieces and nephews, sewing, and reading.

- Janelle Eby - Sam Skrivseth - Tashia Lehigh Creative Design:

Elisa Knicely Elesa Stoltzfus

Cover Photo: Elisa Knicely

A Note from I like the verse on the

Elisa

back of this issue.

“She

is clothed with STRENTH and DIGNITY and she laughs WITHOUT fear of her FUTURE.”

I am pleased to announce that our magazine is in print! This not only makes me (Proverbs 31:25) extremely happy – it makes Growing up can be rather me more thankful for you stressful. There comes a time when a part of us longs to be dear readers who gave your older and yet another part of support. We truly would be us still desires to be that little nowhere without you. girl that we used to be- not a Another exciting change is care in the world. the addition of our newest The future may look terrific staff member, Dorcas Yoder. yet tantalizingly terrible to Not only is she my aunt, she us. It may even cause great has a wonderful talent for fear. writing! To find out more go to our site and navigate to I find it a comfort to know “Our Team” page. that with Jesus we can have absolutely no fear of the future. By thinking rationally This issue has a wonderful selection of articles written by we may even figure out that there is nothing to be afraid talented and qualified ladies. of. Take your time reading and seeking the Lord with the We have several articles ideas shared. May you be written about the future – and I hope you enjoy them as blessed within these pages. much as I did.

- Lisa

: :

I’ve been asked to share some thoughts from John 15 with you. That’s the chapter where Jesus says that He is the vine and we are the branches. Before we get started on those thoughts, let me take you for a short walk to my family’s small vineyard. That will give you a little background for some things I will share later in this article. It’s late spring here in Central New York so the grapes are just beginning to form on the stems. It’s hard to believe that in a little over two months from now, we should be able to pick the first grapes. Makes me hungry just thinking about it!

But when a husbandman (someone who tends vines) knows what they are doing, the results are amazing. In my teen years, my sister and I picked grapes for our neighbors. It was known among us pickers that a certain man who was excellent in his pruning had helped to prune that vineyard. There was a competition to claim the rows that he had pruned as the ones that we would pick. His rows always had more and bigger bunches because he took the time to prune the branches well. You could fill boxes quickly!

Now any of you that are familiar with gardening, know that a plant cut from its food source will die. It’s the same with grape branches. As soon as they are cut, they become fit for the A lot of work has already gone into tending these vines, and for good reason. A well-tended vine burn pile- unless a husbandman uses the cuttings to begin new plants. My parents and I haven’t tried can produce for a hundred years. On the other hand, that yet, although it might be an interesting a vineyard that is not cared for properly will quickly project. become overgrown and be of little use unless Another key thing in raising grapes is to someone puts the effort into pruning it again. A keep the vines and branches free of disease. One thing to consider while pruning and later tying the vineyard of that sort can actually be a detriment to branches to their support is that no branches neighboring vineyards since it can harbor airborne overlap each other. If the branches do overlap, disease. that provides a place for diseases to develop. We Pruning (or purging as it is called in John 15) also avoid disease by spraying the crop for certain bugs or molds. is one of the most important aspects of tending grapes. If you have already worked with fruit of any See this vine here where the leaves look kind this is a familiar concept. Grape branches grow almost like the other vines’ leaves. But you already to great lengths. Some sources say that 90% of the noticed the key difference! The vine is bearing no previous year’s growth is to be trimmed during the fruit. It’s actually a wild vine and not a true vine. Looks can be deceiving, but the true test comes in pruning process. This allows the vine to put its energy into producing fuller bunches and developing the bearing of the fruit. just a few branches for the following year’s crop. We’ve made a few observations here in the vineyard. If you come around again to visit in But not just anyone should be clipping off about two months, we’d be honored to share that 90%. There are certain methods to clipping the some fresh grapes with you. branches to allow the vine to grow in the proper way so that it can be fastened to its support and so that it Still with me? Good for you! Let’s make a few can attain don’t have enough patience or knowledge applications to our lives from the observations we to do a good job! It takes someone with a lot of made on our tour of the vineyard. You might want patience to trim all those extra branches and to trim to pull out your Bible and open it to John 15. 9 ones at the exactly right place. the good

• “I am the true vine…” You know who said these words? Jesus! And that is exciting to me. Hopping ahead in the chapter in verse 5, He says that we are the branches. But here He is calling Himself the true vine. There are a lot of “vines” in this world- things that are calling us to attach ourselves to and asking us for our dedication. But Christ calls Himself the true vine. And He is the only true vine!  “My Father is the husbandman.” You already caught the importance of a good husbandmanone who knows what he is doing and has the patience to do it well. As a Christian, it’s exciting to think that God has the knowledge to prune me, His branch, well. And He is doing it in a way that will bring forth the most fruit for His glory. Obviously I am a branch so I have no clue what all He is up to! But that’s part of the wonder of He being God and me being my puny little branchly self just trying to bring Him glory through the means He’s provided.  “Every branch in me that beareth not fruit He taketh away:” Oh, that sounds a little scary, especially if you live in vineyard country like I do and know what happens to those branches. They are destined to the burn pile. Not hard to make a comparison there! There are a lot of “vines” in these world- things that are calling us to attach ourselves to and asking us for our dedication.

But Christ calls Himself the true vine. And He is the only true vine!  “My Father is the husbandman.” You already caught the importance of a good husbandmanone who knows what he is doing and has the patience to do it well. As a Christian, it’s exciting to think that God has the knowledge to prune me, His branch, well. And He is doing it in a way that will bring forth the most fruit for His glory. Obviously I am a branch so I have no clue what all He is up to! But that’s part of the wonder of He being God and me being my puny little branchly self just trying to bring Him glory through the means He’s provided.  “Every branch in me that beareth not fruit He taketh away:” Oh that sounds a little scary, especially if you live in vineyard country like I do and know what happens to those branches. They are destined to the burn pile. Not hard to make a comparison there! I think this verse is also bringing out the point that as Christians (or branches) our job is to bear fruit or be obedient. Later in John 15, Jesus talks about some of this fruit. It’s being obedient to His commandments and loving each other. Both of those will keep us busy for the rest of our lives. But we can be encouraged. It doesn’t have to be done in our own strength. We are connected to the Vine Jesus Who gives us His strength to be fruit.

 yielding. But he does this with consideration how to make them yield more. He does this by

 “Every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth that it may bring forth more fruit.” When a good husbandman is pruning, he not only cuts off the branches that are not yielding, he also cuts back the ones that are consideration how to make them yield more. He does this by counting the nodes (the little bumps where a grape bunch hangs) and considering how far the node is from the vine itself. I think about my life. Sometimes I get frustrated for several reasons. It feels like God has closed this opportunity or that and I wonder, “Couldn’t I

have yielded fruit for Him if He would have allowed me to do that particular whatever?” Or there are other times when it feels like God is asking me to bear too many bunches, if you please! There is just no time for myself! Ever identify with that?  “Now ye are clean through the Word which I have spoken unto you…” Remember the spraying I talked about? I cringe when I think of what mold can do to grapes. We lost several rows one year when an airborne mold found its way from a neighboring untended vineyard. You can also imagine the cheering when that vineyard was taken out several years later. This verse speaks to me of the need to stay clean

through God’s Word so that my fruit does not fall prey to the black smut of various influences. It also speaks to me of the need to remain pure in the influences I allow in my life. Ever have a friend that got you in a place you never thought you’d be? Then you know what I’m talking about.  Abide in me, and I in you…without Me ye can do nothing.” Abiding. That sounds all mysterious and difficult. But it’s really not. Our grape branches are content to be connected to their vines yielding fruit. And that’s how I can be as a Christian. I can keep an open relationship with Christ my Vine confessing my sins to Him and asking Him for strength to live the life I should. I can trust His Spirit to be a living acting force in my life. And I can believe that He will be yielding much fruit in my life. And that brings us to our next point.  “Herein in My Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples.” I am guessing that you are like me. You want to bring God glory with your life. So the key- abide in Christ, keep your branch connected to the Vine Jesus. Allow the

Husbandman to do His pruning. And claim the promise that you will bear fruit!

Summer Plus!  

Easy Spinach Artichoke Dip | Make your own Icy!

Lemonades

:  ½ cup lemon juice  1/8 cup of sugar  ¼ cup water

Please note that all the amounts vary depending on how much you are planning to make.

Pineapple Lemonade

Sparkling Pink Peach Lemonade  ½ cup fresh pineapple juice 13  A squeeze of lime juice

 ½ cup peach juice (opt: squeezed peaches)  Mint Leaves (recommended – blend mint leaves and till fully minced)

Makes 3-4 cups

2 cups ice water

It’s optional to add ice instead of the water base, making the lemonade a slushie.

Sparkling Pink Peach Lemonade

4 cups ice

 ½ cup blended strawberries

2/3 cup sugar

2 packets of KoolAid type flavoring

2 scoops vanilla ice cream

14 Picture via Pinterest

Easy Spinach Artichoke dip You need: 8 oz. cream cheese 16 oz. light sour cream 1 stick of butter 11/2 -2 cups shredded Parmesan cheese - 14 oz. quartered artichoke hearts drained and coarsely chopped - 10 oz. frozen spinach (thawed and drained) - 1 T. garlic seasoning -

Directions: 1. In a medium pot over medium heat, melt together cream cheese, sour cream, butter and parmesan cheese, stirring frequently until melted and an even consistency. It should start to bubble. 2. Stir in coarsely chopped artichoke hearts, and your drained spinach. Finally, stir in garlic seasoning. 3. Serve hot with chips or crackers.

Photographers: Sam Skrivseth, Elisa Knicely

Character

Seeking the Gold “Do we have good eyes when it comes to finding the good in the people around us? This is how God see’s people and He wants us to see the good in them as He does.” Written by: Dorcas Yoder

“I see a hummingbird,” Ally shrieked excitedly, bouncing up and down on her big sister's lap while we were drinking coffee together one morning.

This can be applied to other people as well. Everyone has something special that can be enjoyed if you look for it.

“Where,” we ask in unison, looking hard at the red and yellow lilies bedecking the flower bed outside our dining room window. Oh, there it was, a cute, little fellow hovering in a big yellow lily.

Seeing the good in others helps you get along better with others. When there are friends or family that you relate closely to, sometimes they can rub you the wrong way and tempt you to be grumpy at them or jealous. Finding and appreciating the good in them can make the good qualities stand out over the difficulties. It's easier to overlook your brother's problem of making noise and being so obnoxious, when you see how kind he is to animals or little children. You might even want to be with him more and learn from him how to love animals or win smiles from little children as well. Then there's the friend who has everything you ever wanted. Instead of focusing on the fact that you don't have those things, focus on how much fun she can be, or maybe how generous she is. Eventually it won't matter to you so much that she has more than you have.

“You see everything,” Jo said as she gave Ally a tight squeeze. “I have good eyes,” Ally replied smugly. As I continued to sip my coffee, I thought about what she said. Ally did have a way of seeing interesting things that we missed. It was the cute puppy in a car at Walmart, the rainbow on the ceiling reflecting off the dishwater in the sink, or a beautiful, bluish rock in the dirt at a campground. While we were experiencing the mundane, she was finding something that brought her and us added pleasure. This habit could be applied to how we view others. Do we have good eyes when it comes to finding the good in the people around us? This is how God sees people and He wants us to see the good in them as He does. There are several benefits in developing this attitude of finding the good in others. You may wonder why I call it an attitude. And this is why- when we develop the habit of looking for the good in others, it becomes so much a part of us, that we don't always even recognize that we are doing it. It becomes a part of our character or a way of looking at life. One benefit to you is that it will bring you joy. Instead of tolerating your brothers and sisters at home, do you find pleasure in their sense of humor, their hobbies, or what they like to wear? That may seem strange to think about, but they have unique qualities that could cause you to enjoy them more or to become better friends with them.

This can also make you more useful in God's kingdom. After all, God created people and gave everyone their unique set of gifts. Someone who is quick to see the good in others is a blessing to a church, a Christian school, or at home. How encouraging it is to see someone who warmly loves and who sees the good in others! It blesses people and can lead others to develop the same attitude. Seeing the good in others can also help you be more thankful for them. Are you thankful for your mom and dad who have poured time and love into your life? Are you thankful for your school teacher who has put lots of effort into teaching you? Are you thankful for everyone in your life that has made a difference by being your friend or by showing you love? So let's get out our good eyes and get busy seeing others as God wants us to see them. Your life will be filled with a new joy as you see the good things in people.

Only a little

Bookish

Read your book case empty? Here are several favorites from some of our readers and staff.

Authentic Beauty

By Leslie Ludy

In a culture that mocks our longing for tender romance, in a world where fairy tales never seem to come true — do we dare hope for more? For every young woman asking that question, this book is an invitation. With refreshing candor and vulnerability, bestselling author Leslie Ludy reveals how, starting today, you can experience the passion and intimacy you long for. You can begin a never-ending love story with your true Prince. Discover the authentic beauty of a life fully set-apart for Him. Experience a romance that will transform every part of your existence and fulfill the deepest longings of your feminine heart.

Kisses from Katie:

By Katie Davis What would cause an eighteen-year-old old senior class president and homecoming queen from Nashville, Tennessee, to disappoint her parents by forgoing college, break her little brother’s heart, lose all but a handful of her friends (because the rest of them think she has gone off the deep end), and break up with the love of her life, all so she could move to Uganda, where she knew only one person but didn’t know any of the language? A passion to make a difference. Katie Davis left over Christmas break her senior year for a short mission trip to Uganda and her life was turned completely inside out. She found herself so moved by the people and children of Uganda that she knew her calling was to return and care for them.

Some Kind of Love:

Gloria Miller Having immersed herself in Liberian culture for several years, Gloria Miller grew to love the Liberian people she came to serve. The combination of looking into the eyes of suffering children, seeing the great needs, and knowing that even little things could make a difference deepened her love for the Liberian people. Their stories had to be written, because they mattered. With professional photography and touching commentary, Some Kind of Love will place you in the world of Liberia-a world where Jesus' power is real, a world where people find redemption, and a world where, even in the vast darkness of sin, there is always at least a pinprick of light.

Crazy Love: Overwhelmed by a Relentless God

Francis Chan

It’s crazy, if you think about it. The God of the universe_ the Creator of nitrogen and pine needles, galaxies and E-minor – loves us with a radical, unconditional, self-sacrificing love. And what is our typical response? We go to church, sing songs, and try not to cuss. Whether you’ve verbalized it yet or not, we know something’s wrong. Are you hungry for an authentic faith that addresses the problems of our world with tangible, even radical solutions? God is calling you to a passionate love relationships with Himself. Because the answer to religious complacency isn’t working harder at a list of do’s and don’ts-its falling in love with God. And once you encounter His love, as Francis describes it, you will never be the same. Because when you’re wildly in love with someone, it changes everything.

This Present Darkness:

By: Frank E. Peritti

The small town of Ashton is the unexpected setting for an epic clash between good and evil as a Christian preacher and a news reporter unearth a plot to take over their small community, and eventually the world. Unseen supernatural forces are at play, as armies of angels and demons wage battle, with groups of Christians and New Agers influencing what they cannot see by the power of prayer. Readers will find themselves rooting for a most unlikely hero as her quest for inner peace exposes the most frightening war of all, the battle for the human soul. Be captivated anew as you enter the world of battling angels and demons that author Frank Peretti so masterfully uncovered in This Present Darkness And its sequel: Piercing the Darkness

Seeking Allah, Finding Jesus

Nabeel Qureshi An incredible insight into the Muslim theology, it’s the story of two young men – best friends. One is a devout Christian, the other a devout Muslim. Through their relationship, each one challenges and studies each other’s faith. The Muslim is brought to Christ by seeing the error in his own religion and the Biblical and historical accuracy of the Christian faith.

You know you’re quite bookish when …

Starting a new book before bed is way too risky

Sometimes you buy a new book before completing the current one and then you start reading the new one and never go back to the last one. So many unfinished books!

When you visit people, you always end up looking through their books.

/ You either finish a book and have the next/one propped over and ready to go or you wait 27 years and two centuries before you start the next one

You don’t have a favorite book. You have hundreds. 19

You whisper, “No”, at the character because you know they’re about to make a fool of themselves and kill you with second hand embarrassment.

If you’re ever stranded anywhere – you hope it’s a bookstore.

That feeling you get when you don’t remember that you’re reading. When you’re so captured by a book that you forget you’re reading words. All you see is the descriptions and the conversations that are being played out in your head. Then before you know it, you’ve read 100 pages without realizing it.

God Girl

Love

who knows

Part One

How does a God Girl relate to her family, and her friends? Inside every girl is a longing to have the perfect love relationship with her father. No matter how great or who horrible he actually was as father, we all deeply desire more intimacy with the first man in our lives. A girlâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s father is her first love, her evidence that there truly is a God and that he truly loves her. I believe each of our hearts carries a blueprint that points directly to a pure, untainted love from a father that will never disappoint. Your earthly father can never be all the love that you need. He is simply your shot at a quick look at the original Father. And no matter what your father was like or is like, no matter how he loved or hated, no matter who your father here on earth is, your Father in heaven is truly in love with you. He's the reality that a father on earth should be a reflection of.

much as she gives it away. Love never disappoints. We may face earthly rejection or pain, but when a girl obeys God's call to love, she is rewarded in ways that are often unseen. The underlying truth about love, however, is that it makes life easier. When you learn to love no matter what the circumstances, you learn to rise above. You gain hope and confidence, and your life is made better by the simple fact that you choose love over anger, hate frustration, or bitterness. Love is the fuel of a healthy and holy life.

hate frustration, or bitterness. Love is the fuel of a healthy and holy life.

What Does Love Look Like? But what is love? It is such a massive concept that it can be hard to really know how to do it. So letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s take a look at some of the basics of loving others God's way in everyday life.

God's love is here to stay, and that's what gives the God Girl the strength to rise above the mess and smile. She knows that no matter how hard life may be, no matter how bad she's messed up, he will never abandon her and never leave her. (See Hebrews 13:5) And that's what makes loving him back such a sure thing. When you can know beyond a shadow of doubt that he is faithful and never walks out, you can feel free to love him with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength. (See Mark 12:30)

Love is the absolute best way to describe God. Love is the highest goal of the God Girl. It's her gift to the Creator. It's her expression of thanks, praise, and honor. It defines her: "Everything will know that you are my disciples because of your love for each other" (John 13:35) When she loves she obeys the two greatest commandments and so fulfills the rest of the. Love is the doorway into a life of fate, 21 and it gives back to the God Girl as much as she gives it away. Love never disappoints. We may face earthly rejection or pain, but when a

Photographer: Tashia Lehigh

People want to be around her because she makes them feel important and loved. Friendship, to her, is about not what she can get but how she can draw others to Jesus and be his hands and feet. The God Girl is the best friend another girl can have.

The God Girl with her Friends: The God Girl loves her friends effortlessly. She seems to be so kind and loving that no one can hold anything against her. She is easy to be around. She isn't demanding or selfish; she lives outside of herself. She truly cares about what her friend has to say and listens well. She gives up the best seat in school so her friend can have it. She doesn't fight with her over boys or clothes. She isn't easily hurt or angered. (See 1 Corinthians 13:5) because love doesn't mean getting what you want when you want it but means giving what others need. When the world sees the God Girl, she looks different than most girls because she is selfless (see Matthew 16:24). She considers others more important than herself (see Philippians 2:3-4), and that makes her love unique. In all her relationships there is a taste of Jesus.

But what happens when things get tough and friendship gets messy? How does the God Girl deal with a critical friend or a jealous friend? What if her friend is changing, drifting away? How does the God Girl deal with adversity in friendship? With confidence. The God Girl has confidence in her God and in his sovereignty, and therefore she never panics. She doesn't retaliate when friends get nasty. She doesn't have to fight; she has to love. She doesn't demand loyalty of anyone but herself. And so when things get tough, she remains calm, kind, and hopeful. She gives others what they want, not what she wants. Love Always puts others first; it's never irritable or vengeful, because it lives for a greater purpose. To love is to the breath of Christ to the world. So when the God Girl loves, she always puts Christ first, not her wants or needs. The God Girl is the best friend

Girl loves, she always puts Christ first, not her wants or needs. The God Girl is the best friend the world could have. You might not feel like the most loving friend. You may have messed up in the past, but you can't let that determine your future. Love takes practice. You're going to make mistakes, but that's okay. You can't let failure become a reason to try all the harder. When you love the way God designed you to love, not only will you find more love for yourself but your life will have less drama and destruction in it. People will be drawn to you, and even if they aren't, you will be okay with that.

Ifhardyou are and vindictive

Insistent on your own way

Certain thatthe other person is More likelyto be in the wrong than there is an

You Indication

whole

That there are Tracts of your nature that Have

Never Been transformed By His gaze. - Oswald Chambers

A God Girl with her family Sometimes the hardest people to love can be the ones who are closest to you. I know that I don't get as frustrated with my friends as I do with my mother. And I bet the same is true for you. But the God Girl has to make an amazing effort to bring peace to the home. In Jesus's parable of the vine and the branches, he tells us how each one of us who belongs to him are parts of the vine. Can you imagine the branch of a plant lashing out and trying to hurt the branch right next to it? It would be like hurting itself. And that's what we do when we we fight with our families. We are part of one another, and we must love each other. In fact, you've probably heart it a million times, but let's make it a million and one: you must "Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live for a long time in the land the Lord your God is giving you" (Exodus 20:12)

Honoring them means that you don't argue with them in anger or bitterness. You don't roll your eyes or ignore them, but you give them the respect God commands you to give them. You might discuss differences and disagreements with them, but you always respect them as the authority over you, like a boss or a teacher. As a

God Girl you are the fragrance of God even to your family. Each person you live with has their own story, their own walk. And each one has their own problems. As a God girl, your gift of loving them is a gift of refreshing.

Home should be not a war zone but a refuge. When you love your family, you help it to be that for them, but also for you. The God Girl loves her family, no matter how crazy or how bad they are, because she knows that God purposed her for this exact family and that her role in it is crucial. She can either be a change agent in their lives and her own, or she can resign herself to misery and despair. The God girl always chooses hope, faith, and love. And those choices demand a love that never gives up and always believes. Love your family and you will find love for yourself. But how does loving your family look? You've probably heard this all before, but have still had your share of family drama. So how about some help. Here are some things to think about when it comes to family.

Be real: if the same problems happen over and over again, what leads up to them? Trace your steps. Then see if God doesn't want you to change something. 2. Apologize. An apology covers up a lot of problems. When you fight with your family, apologize. You can surely find something you did wrong. It will help soften the situation. 3. Don't escalate the conflict. Think about your relationship with God, How does he want you to react? This doesn't depend on how others are acting but on what would please God. 4. Be willing to be wronged. Jesus never fought back when people accused him of things. He didn't argue. So why do you have to? Be willing to be wrong in someone's eyes, knowing that God knows your heart.

1. Ask yourself what God wants to teach you through this person or problem. problems happen over and over again, what leads up to them? Trace your An explicit ofsteps. the Then Hayley bookyou “God Girl” see ifDiMarco’s God doesn't want God Girl will help girls know what it means to be a woman of God in every area of life-to change something

with their thoughts, in their actions, and as they make daily choices about friends, fashion, faith, and everything in between. It's sure to be an instant classic

Inspired

using the beauty of words Photographer: Jessica Wingard

The future is scary, but you can't just run back to the past because its familiar. Yes, its tempting, but it's a mistake. unknown

You were not designed for everyone to like you. - Author Unknown

At the end of each day, life should ask us 'Do you want to save the changes?' Unknown

I'd rather fill a few short years with aw many beautiful moments as I can, than live forever

I've never thought of imperfections as something to be loathed - but rather something to be loved. Raquel

Be careful with your words. Once said, they can only be forgiven - not forgotten.

Why am I smiling today? Because I know that God is already working on tomorrow.

Don't ruin a good day. by thinking about a bad yesterday. Let it go. unknown

Readers Corner

My Song

Readers Question:

He’s just an amazing dad. He makes sure we do Bible Study each daysomething I would forget to do otherwise. He is so close to the Lord and not afraid to let the world know it. I aspire to be like him one day.” “My dad and I are really alike, so we have awesome debates about theological topics.” I respect my dad as a father, but also as a friend. I love being outdoors and fishing with him. –Addie Imel “He teaches me not to just following my peers but to follow God with all my heart.” My dad gives me advice. -Anca Bogdan “My dad listens when there’s something I need to talk about and he gives advice where needed. He supports me in the things I do. Because of him I have so much more opportunity, and I’m so thankful! -Destinee Stoltzfus

Readers Share:

A short Story

The absolute best Written by: Mary Derstine

Donna sighed as she plopped on her rumpled bed. The house work was done, and now she just wanted to think about nothing. OK, well she wanted to think about something. The something being that she just caught on that her life was out of her control. She always knew it in the back of her mind, but it wasn't until her family decided to move that it really dawned on her. No matter how much she protested, her family was packing up, and moving to a really weird state: North Carolina. And she was going to be dragged along. Life felt so unfair. Her little sister cheerfully talked about the great times they were going to have at the ocean, or the trips they could take to the mountains. In North Carolina, you could have both the ocean and the mountains! Now, isn't that wonderful? Donna didn't think so. All she could remember were the straggly pine trees, the redneck trailer houses that everyone lived in, the muggy weather, and the hideous accent where everybody said “ah” instead of “I”. Donna sighed again, and decided she had better stop thinking about it, because all it did was make her in a grumpy mood. Her mom had informed her of that fact, to tell you the truth. (Her mom had also informed her of the facts about the gorgeous ocean, the beautiful sunrises and sunsets, the friendly southern culture, and the mild winters.) As Donna lay there, she noticed her Bible sitting on her book shelf, and remembered that she hadn't had her devotions yet that morning. She reached for her Bible, and casually flipped the pages. It opened to Psalm 23. Donna stared at the Psalm. It was so familiar to her that she found “The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the 28 still waters.” Donna paused after nd the 2 verse.

herself getting bored reading it. She had it memorized, “The Lord is my shepherd...” she recited. Then she straightened. I'm going to try read it like its new. She began again. “The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters.” Donna paused after the 2nd verse. God wants the best for me. She remembered hearing before that sheep like calm, quiet water, and the shepherd tries to find the absolute best for them. Maybe, she thought reluctantly, God's absolute best for me is North Carolina. “He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness For His name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; For You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.” God might have to lead me through valley of the shadow of death, but He will be with me. He will comfort me while I'm going through it. “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; My cup runs over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me All the days of my life; And I will dwell in the house of the LORD Forever.” Once again, God's love and care for her impressed Donna. She stared out the window over her Bible, and felt overwhelmed with his everlasting love. He wants the best for me. She thought again. And I will have to trust with what is best. Even if North Carolina has ugly pine trees and rednecks.

Readers Share:

Not of this

World Written by: Anna Duncan Photographer: Rosa Yoder

hen my parents first began to see things in the Bible about modesty, the head covering, and other such commands of Christ, they sought to find a fellowship of believers who practiced these things. But seemingly everywhere they went, people were trying to get as close to the line as possible. Instead of seeking to please the Lord in everything, these people were doing all they could to look more like the world and still not actually cross "the line." That type of attitude is very prevelant today. The devil is working with all heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s got to seduce us into following after things of the world. He wants to destroy our set-apart lives, and decieve us into thinking the commandments of Jesus arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t really very important. So, being tricky and sly, he tries to infiltrate our lives with the world, little by little. Often the devil starts with something outwardly harmless, tempting us with just the slightest compromise. Many times it looks good on the surface, which is one reason why itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s so important that we be alert for his deceit and lies. As young ladies and followers of Jesus, we need especially to keep on guard against this. One area in which Satan would like to trip us up is in the way we dress. He hates to see young women dressing modestly, and he hates when we cover our heads. One of the most important thing for us to have, is an understanding of why we dress/live the way we do.

If the only reason for our dressing modestly is our parents wishes, there will be nothing to hold us back from throwing that all off once we are out from under their authority. So let’s dig deeper and find out why we are to look different from the modern world today. It’s important that we know what God says on this subject. If we instill the conviction of modesty within our hearts, it will be a lot harder for the enemy to bring compromise in this area of our lives. The best place to start is the Bible. In 2 Timothy 2:9-10, we read,

dress attitude The matter of

And 1 Peter 3:3-4 says,

"Don’t let your adornment be the outward beauty of fancy hairstyles, expensive jewelry, or beautiful clothes. You should clothe yourselves instead with the beauty that comes from within, the unfading beauty of a meek and quiet spirit, which is so precious to God." 1 Corinthians 11:5... "A women dishonors her headi if she prays or prophesies without a covering on her head." Many people will try to tell us it doesn’t matter how we dress, that the only thing of importance is what’s in the heart.

begins with the of the heart.

But, coincidentally, the matter of dress begins with the additude of the heart. Are we trying to be noticed by the way we dress, or do we desire the beauty of Jesus to shine through us as we obey His words? Sometimes we may feel it’s unfair that we have to be the ones who look so weird in the eyes of the culture, while many others do not. But think of it as an honor, a way to show to the whole world that we are daughters of the King. So next time someone asks you, "What’s with the head-gear?" or "How come you look like you just stepped out of the nineteenth century?", you’ll know what to say... "This is the royal dress of God’s Princesses!!!!"

Meet the Author Hi! My name is Anna Duncan and am 16 years old. I live in Southern Indiana with my parents, 3 brothers and 3 sisters. I love writing and playing piano and especially spending time with friends. I desire to use my writing and music for God, in whatever way He may choose. Living for Jesus is always an adventure! You can contact me at: annaj.jesusgirl@gmail.com

A Glimpse into the life of a missionary

Grenada

By Crystal Kennell

The girls second grade and up had a sleep-over at our house.

I live in Laborie, Grenada (West Indies). For those who don't know where exactly Grenada is, look down, and to the right of Florida. It's a wonderful Island with nice weather and friendly people! Oh and they speak English which is a plus for mebecause I am pretty sure I would not learn another language very well like some people. They do speak differently but you are able to pick it up after a while. I am a second grade teacher to 7 crazy, amazing children; who have found a special place in my heart. There are 4 boys and 3 girls... Leadon, a sweet boy who likes to make people laugh and also gets into a lot of trouble. Darrell, is often looks out for others, very competitive and loves being praised. Shane, the class clown and is always being kind to everyone and trying to make everyone happy. David, sweet, smart and loves to play Bite 'um. Nella, our drama queen who loves to create things with paper. Renel, the tomb boy of the class and loves to hang out with her teacher. Rebekah, sweet and is loved by the whole class and is friends with everyone.

These children have added so much to my life, and I think they helped grow me up. It is amazing how much you can learn to love them and by loving them it is easy to want to invest in their lives. I am forever catching myself talking on and on to someone about what one of them did that day or how much trouble they are giving me. Sometimes I have to remind myself to be quiet and give the other people a chance to speak! I have learned a lot living in a different culture.

Kayla and I

Bible Club Kids and face paintings It is tempting sometimes to hide yourself in a shell and stay in your comfort zone; but that is not fun and you regret it when you see how unfulfilled and selfish your life becomes. I have also been able to see who I am as a person more as well. Not being around the same people all your life gives you a chance to see how much they influenced you for good (and bad). I am currently home for 2 months until the next school year, and am looking forward to another year in the Caribbean. One thing that I want to leave with you though is this:

Don't get caught up in your dreams and quickly jump to the next stage in your life that you are excited about. Live in the moment. You only have one go at this life on earth and to soon it will end. Make your time count instead of counting the time till the next new thing comes. Time goes quick enough. One more thingmake sure God has a part in helping you make plans and dreams; because His ways are so much higher and greater than ours. You will never regret following Him. Just trust Him to know whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best for you.

Three cute 1rst graders sitting on the wall

We have kite day with our kids at school so this is what is happening.

Letting go of our earthly desires and letting God take control

By Destinee Stoltzfus

Photographer Elisa Knicely

As I was thinking about this thing called Surrender, I realized that it is never an easy thing. It is always a very conscious choice to release something that you desire greatly. There's no denying the fact that true surrender means struggle, and probably a lot of struggle, because it's giving up what my flesh wants! My flesh so badly wants what I want, because I have a sinful selfish nature, and it feels nearly impossibly at times to let go of that. Surrender is necessary in a lot of areas in life. One area that I used to not give a whole lot of thought to until recently is surrender in the area of guilt and selfcondemnation. I make mistakes. Not just a few every now and then, but I make mistakes - a lot. What do I do when I realize I've made a big mistake? I repent and ask God to forgive me! And that's the right thing to do. But. That's the easy part.

The hard part is forgiving myself.

stressin pra

Instead of

I get down on my

KNEES 36

I struggle with it, wondering why I ever did such a thing! Why can't I just undo it? What is wrong with me that I would do such a thing?! I think and think and think about it, wishing that I could somehow make my wrong right.

He is telling me that if I wait on Him to move instead of trying to fix things myself, make things happen that I think should happen, or try to understand why He allows certain things into my/others lives, then He will give me renewed strength, wings like an eagles, the ability to run this race without getting tired, and walk without fainting!

"If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked Yes, I can ask God for His forgiveness. He ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will will forgive me. heal their land." 2 Chronicles 7:14 I can ask the person's forgiveness, if He promised it! He will forgive our sins and heal our land if we will necessary, and they will hopefully forgive only call on Him. me. Please my friends, stop and think on this. Apply it to whatever area But...what about forgiving myself? you are struggling with in your life. Are you waiting on an answer from God? Are you wishing that you could change something you've What about the consequences? done? Are you desiring more than anything that He would allow you What if no one wants to trust me to do what you want to do? Do you have dreams that you want anymore? fulfilled? What if everyone thinks I'm stupid? Let go, my friend. Wait on God. He WILL move! In HIS timing. Maybe I am stupid? This is something that I have only begun learning, but I hope to God whispers to me through His Word... make it a part of my everyday life. But what's done is done.

"But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint." Isaiah 40:31 I don't know if you've ever thought about what this verse really means. The beautiful promise that my Father is giving - to ME! I've always loved this verse, but it never struck me like it did recently, and when it struck me it made me all excited!

So often I stress about details, wondering how in the world I can possibly ever fix this or what I should do to prevent a worst case scenario?! I think, stress, plan, talk to people about it, and pray that God would do what I want Him to do! Then I take the best "solution" and try to make it happen on my own wisdom and strength. I forget that God will take care of it. Why do I so easily forget this? I think it's because I'm not releasing everything in my life to God. If I would totally believe that God has my best interests in mind and that He WILL do what is the best thing possible and that He WILL answer my prayers if I call on Him, I think I would stress a whole lot less! Then, instead of stressing, I would get on my knees and PRAY.

"And it shall come to pass, that before they call, I will answer; and while they are yet speaking, I will hear." Isaiah 65:24 There it is again! It makes me so excited! There are so many promises in His Word. Why am I struggling to believe this deep in my heart? Maybe it's because of the fact that... "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord..." Isaiah 55:8-9 I know that sometimes the best answer is "no", but I don't want to take no for answer.

"There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death." Proverbs 14:12

Weak.”

“God can’t really use you to your fullest potential until you realize that you are And so instead of letting go and letting God, I hang on. Sure, I probably will pray about it and ask God to do His will. But...am I willing to stop trying to figure out the "solution" and wait for God to work? We all have expectations, dreams, and ideas of what we want and what we think is best for us. But does God's will always align with our will? NO! Absolutely not.

You may feel too small, weak, and incapable of making your "impossible dreams" become reality. And you're right you are too small. It's impossible on your own. But God makes beauty out of ashes! "And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me." 2 Corinthians 12:9 In fact, GOD really can't use you to your fullest potential until you realize that you are weak.

"For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith He needs you to be weak and realize that you can't do it. the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give Because it's then that He can do HIS work through you an expected end." Jeremiah 29:11 you. However, I do know that God knows best. He has a Pray a lot about whatever it is that you're facing and beautiful plan for your life, and He is asking you to dreaming about right now. release your dreams so that He can make something Then let go and let God. beautiful out of it. He will work - in HIS perfect timing. "But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him." 1 Corinthians 2:9

Meet the Author:

Destinee Stoltzfus

"I'm an 18 year old girl from western New York and the best way to describe me is that I live on coffee and make a lot of mistakes. :) I love life despite the fact that it always seems to have challenges, and my desire is to fulfill God's purpose for my life. One of my favorite things to do is spend time with friends - either laughing or having deep discussions. There's nothing I love more than to see girls going deeper with God and growing spiritually. My desire is that somehow you will be challenged, encouraged, and inspired through the article. I enjoyed writing it, but felt 38 like it's something that I'm only beginning to learn myself. May God be honored, and may each one of you allow Him to do His work in your life even when you feel like you can't go on! Never give up!!!"

One of the

happiest

Moments in life Is when you Find the courage To Let go of what You cant change and Give It all to your Heavenly

Father.

16 Boredom Compiled by Victoria Martin Photography by Rosa Yoder

Summer has arrived, school is out, and the sun is hot and shining. Could life ever be better? As we kick into summer mode our minds ponder endless possibilities. Watching the night stars, roasting marshmallows by a fire, finally finishing that quilt we started two years ago – summer won’t ever get boring; or will it? But before you know it - the months are slowly nearing school and our energy and creativity has left us. What now? We’ve compiled a list of ideas to do once the inevitable boredom hits you unprepared. Have fun!

1 Make ice cream sandwiches--try

2. Go to a farmers' market. Buy at least one weird thing you've never eaten before.

chocolate chip cookies and vanilla bean ice cream.

3. Have a water balloon toss. Or, if you're not that civil, a water balloon fight.

Get together with some friends

Set up your

sprinkler in the backyard and run through it.

7 Go to the zoo. Wave at all the 41 monkeys.

and make a skit. Don't forget to write a script, make costumes and pick the best location. Or if you're flying solo, go to a local event and make a documentary about it.

6 Make a fun playlist for your iPod and take it for a jog.

8. Get on your bike and ride. (destination: ice cream cones)

10. Read a good book in a hammock (which everyone knows is the best place to read a good book).

9. Star-gaze with friends.

(If you live in the far North, prepare for a short night. Where I live the sun doesn't set until at least 11:00 pm in the summertime.)

12. Get up early and do your devotions as the sun rises.

11. Grab some sidewalk chalk and your younger siblings and play hopscotch.

13. Blow Bubbles! (Take a look at page ___ and learn how to make glow in the dark bubbles!)

14. Become a bookworm (if you haven't already).

15. Host a slumber party and have a pizza decorating contest.

16. Send long letters to your out-of-town friends. But first, do some of the stuff on this list so you have something to brag about.

Dear Future Husband Written by: Elesa Stoltzfus Pictures used by permission

Prayer is powerful, It’s important. It connects you with a Father who is awesomely sovereign and the One who delights in you and your desires. God cares about who you will marry even more than you ever are able to. And he already knows the exact man that you will marry. Waiting for God to show you who the knight will be is hard. Sometimes it seems like we only live for that day when that knight in shining armor comes and wipes us off our feet. NO. We cannot just sit here and expect a man to show up and miraculously take us away to his castle. You have a job as a future wife. To guard your heart from every man until God shows you the special man. Do your husband good and not evil all the days of your life. This really has become real to me. It’s so important to keep my eyes off of the guys and look to God. I want a man that is so close to God that will only look up when God tells him that’s the one. Make a purposeful effort to pray for your future husband.

Pray for his job. Pray that he would work hard, stand strong in God, and show Jesus to any person he meets on the jobsite. Pray for his feelings. He may be feeling inadequate, unappreciated, or discouraged. Pray that he would understand God’s plan for his life and draw closer to God so he feels appreciated. Pray for his relationships with others. That he would learn to be a strong leader. Pray for his spiritual life. Pray that God would make him a man after his own heart—that he would desire the things of God most. Pray that he would stand up in courage and look fear in the face yet be humble. That he will be a witness wherever he goes. Whether on the job, at home, or in school… that he would lead people to Christ by his actions, words, and life. That he would have godly, uplifting friends. Pray that they would encourage him in his walk with the Lord and build him up spiritually. That he would lean on Christ and hope in Him. In learning leadership, pray that when he falls, he can lean on God. That his eyes would be protected and he would stand strong against temptation. In this fallen world, many girls try to be alluring. They dress skimpily—near naked. This is a serious issue for guys. It can cause them to give into temptation. You can help by being modest and praying hard for your future husband. I will pray that my future husband would draw closer to God and fall in love with him. I will pray for my future husband to submit to His authority and obtain directions for life from God. I will pray that his fears would be smitten and God would show him the power of the Almighty. I will pray that God would lead him and become real to him like a Father. I will pray that he will follow God’s commands.

“As you pray for your future husband, don’t just focus on your own desires, but on how your prayers can help shape him into the mighty man God has called him to be. If you pray diligently for him and carry this practice into marriage, you will be amazed at how God molds and shapes him into the man your heart desires.” Leslie Ludy

Dear future husband, I may not know your name. I may not have met you yet. But I know that God is shaping you. I trust that you are being broken and drawn to the Father. I know how hard it is sometimes. How you feel like giving into the things of the world that are calling. But you know, even if you may not know me, I support you. And I want you to know— press on. I need you to be strong and valiant. I need you to stand up for the right things and take a step into the unknown. I will support you in everything. In the times that you fall down, I pray that you will feel the Father’s grace. Lean on him. Because He’s got you. He really does. He will lead you in everything… even to me when the time comes. I’m praying for you every day, my friend. And just so you know. I do love you even if I don’t know you. May your heart be filled with more of his grace, love, and forgiveness. May you be humble and quick to forgive. I’m here for you. Waiting. Preparing. I’m giving life my all, and I can’t wait to meet you someday. Much love, Your Future Wife

MAKE YOUR OWN

CHALKBOARD notebook Washie Tape

Duct Tape

What you’ll need: - Washie Tape {Found in local craft stores and sometimes Walmart.}

Chalkboard Paint

Notebook

Paint Brush

Step 1:

Duct tape the edges around the notebook – especially the black edge.

Duct Tape

A Paint brush

Notebook (of any size) Chalkboard Paint (Found in craft isle in Walmart)

Step 2:

Start painting! Be sure to note that it will take at least 4-5 coats of paint. Don’t over-coat otherwise the notebook might end up slightly warped.

The finished result:

Step 3: Peel off the duct tape and apply the Washie tape. Be creative!

Step 4: IF the notebook ends up warped itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s optional to place a pile of books on top of it, to get the flattened effect.

Coming soon!

// Expressing creativity and simplicity \\

creative summer idea

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- Prices coming soon Our first issue in print will be our Winter Issue. For more information visit our site: foreverhisprincessma.wix.com/foreverhisprincess (site is currently being worked on â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and will be ready in a few weeks.)

Did you know? At futureme.org you can write a letter to your future self, and then choose when you want it emailed to you.

You know you’re a

Make your own: glow in the dark

Writer when:

Bubbles

1. Break or cut open glow sticks 2. Pour contents into bubble container 3. Shake well 4. Have fun!

You write something one day and think it’s the greatest thing in the world, then come back the next day and completely hate it and have to start over again.

Our talented

photographer

Problems with

Rosa Yoder

acne?

Shares her photography tip:

you prefer) wash your face with a clean washcloth, afterwards applying the vinegar. It may sting a little – but after a few weeks you’ll most likely see a clearance of pimples. Con: It may stink up your bathroom.

Photography Tip:

Suggestion: Try Apple Cider Vinegar! Every evening (or mornings if

“

Always shoot in natural light. It will give your pictures natural shadows, which makes them look more professional!” #naturalightisthebest

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A peek into our

Issue Because of the late summer issue, we will not be able to squeeze two more consecutive issues â&#x20AC;&#x201C; hence the skipping of the fall issue.

Lymeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

My journey with

And much more! 51

Rules for friendships

clothed She laughs

She is with STRENGTH and DIGNITY and without FEAR of the FUTURE. Proverbs 31:25