Peristeria Summer 2013 by National Girls Ministries

National Girls Ministries Director

Candy Tolbert Teen Girl Specialist Magazine Editor

Katie Mattiuzzo

National Girls Ministries Editor

Lori Van Veen

This Month’s Contributors:

Christine Fetters

10 Fun Summer Outdoor Activities

Jennie Olson Deanna Peshl Aurelia Stratton Lilly Bryant Charity Bennitt Way Cool Jobs

Candy Tolbert

Say Yes to the Dress

Jennie Olson Reputations

Hey girls! Summer is a season of transition for a lot of people. You say goodbye to friends and a structured routine as the school year comes to a close. Some people transition to new states, new schools, or new churches. The transitions during summer can create a lot of uneasiness in some people but also a lot of excitement as a new phase presents itself. This Spring, my husband and I prayerfully decided I should seize this time to stay home with our baby boy. As a result I am transitioning out of my position as the Teen Girl Specialist in the national Girls Ministries Department. I’ve absolutely loved being able to come alongside teen girls, parents, and leaders to provide resources, encouragement, and a bit of humor these past three years. I hope this magazine — the stories, the graphics, and the fun extras — has been a blessing and an encouragement to you, and that our heart for reaching and equipping you has been evident in every issue. Though I am stepping aside and this will be the last issue of Peristeria, I encourage you to seek out other magazines that encourage the development of godly character to become the woman He wants you to be. Know that your friends in the national Girls Ministries Department pray for you and feel honored to be apart of your lives! Blessings on you all, sweet girls!

Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Wheaton, Illinois 60189. All rights reserved. THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. Contemporary English Version® Copyright © 1995 American Bible Society. All rights reserved.

The symbolism between the Peristeria Orchid and the Christian teen girl is pretty powerful stuff. Peristeria is Greek for “little dove.” The orchid gets its name from the dove-shaped center of the flower, and has also been called the Holy Ghost orchid (read Luke 3:21,22). Peristeria Orchids can grow in light or dark, much like a teen girl who has a desire to grow in her relationship with God despite the circumstances around her. The roots require moisture — pure water — at all times. As Christians, we also need nutrition and to be constantly fed through studying the Bible. As you read this magazine, think of yourself as a beautiful Peristeria Orchid — filled with the Holy Ghost, growing in whatever circumstances you’re living with, whether they be in light or dark, and being fed with the pure truth of the Word of God.

seasonal favorites summer

Peanut butter can make for some awesome protein-packed snacks when youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re sensing the afternoon munchies coming on this summer! Check out these yummy ideas:

yummies! peanut butter cracker cookie round crackers peanut butter chocolate chips wax paper to 1. Spread peanut butter on and r cke cra nd rou a of one side kstick it to another cracker, ma ing a sandwhich. the 2. Melt chocolate chips in 30 ry eve g rin stir , ave microw seconds until melted. ich 3. Dip peanut butter sandw sub y crackers in chocolate, full merging. w 4. Set on wax paper and allo to fully set.

peanut butter banana pops peeled bananas wooden sticks peanut butter chocolate chips toppings of choice (coconut, chopped nuts, sprinkles, etc.) wax paper 1. Chop peeled bananas in half. 2. Insert wooden stick into one end of the banana halves. 3. Spread peanut butter on the entire banana. 4. Melt chocolate chips in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds until melted. 5. Dip banana pops in chocolate, fully submerging. 6. Roll in toppings of choice. 7. Set on wax paper and put in the freezer for one hour.

peanut butter crispy rice 1/4 c. peanut butter 1/4 c. butter 10 oz. package of marshmallows 5 c. crispy rice cereal melted chocolate chips 1. Combine peanut butter, butter, and marshmallows in a large, microwave-safe container and microwave for one minute stopping to stir every 30 seconds until melted and well blended. 2. Pour over crispy rice cereal and stir until well mixed. 3. Pour into a well-greased 9x13 pan. 4. Drizzle melted chocolate chips over the top. 5. Allow bars to cool and set.

brilliant breakfast ideas for summer vacation

Use your new-found freedom this summer to venture into the world of brilliant breakfasts! To help you avoid a breakfast rut, here are a list of ideas. Biscuits & gravy or jam Toast with jam & sausage links tter English muffin & peanut bu m

Scrambled eggs & diced ha

Pancakes Muffins

Scones h

Cottage cheese mixed wit fruit French toast

on Homemade egg sandwich an English muffin Yogurt mixed with granola Oatmeal

sliced in half

Waffles Hashbrowns

Bagel & cream cheese

Breakfast skillet with seasoned potatoes, sausage, eggs, & vegetables

Omlette with cheese & crushed bacon

Smoothies

Breakfast burritos with scrambled eggs, cheese, crumbled sausage, & green peppers in a tortilla Cinnamon rolls

Coffee cake Crepes Toaster pastries

Dry cereal and milk

smashingsmoothies strawberry, banana, & spinach smoothie

1/2 banana 5 large strawberries 1/3 c. orange juice 1/3 c. vanilla yogurt handful of spinach 4 ice cubes

orange & raspberry smoothie

1 c. orange juice 1 c. raspberries 1/2 c. vanilla yogurt 1 c. ice cubes Blend ingredients together. Add a handful of spinach to increase the nurtitional value of your drink even more!

Blend ingredients together. Believe it or not, the spinach doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t flavor the smoothie at all, but it makes it super healthy!

seasonal favorites apron, cook book

watch

mother’s & father’s day gift ideas! mother’s day

spring patterned serving platter candle, bubble bath, book coffee mug, bag of coffee, tin of cookies kitchen apron

herb window sill garden scarf and cute umbrella purse locket decorative hand towels & goodsmelling hand soap

car care kit — bucket, sponge, soap, air freshner

tie & belt

gift card to hardware store tickets to a sporting event or concert of interest to him slippers manly travel mug Bible devotionals on CD for his morning commute steak dinner out on you pajamas handmade card iTunes gift card camera devotional book for fathers

handmade card

tools

cookbook

old photo of you & her blown up and nicely matted and framed

cologne

gift card for a massage/pedicure/ manicure/facial

a date out with you

photo album filled with photos of you together with your siblings

necklace, earrings, bracelet

flowers & chocolate book on CD restaurant gift card DVD, snacks, slipper socks, & blanket fun table cloth or placemats tea pot & tea bags engraved bracelet

pretty shirt and matching necklace decorative throw pillow manicure kit — file, buffer, nail polish, top coat, hand lotion journal, pen, gift card to her coffee shop

razor, shaving cream, & aftershave work-out outfit hobby-related gift (Ex: gear for fishing, camping, hunting, sports, cars, music, etc.)

father’s day

DVD, box of popcorn, favorite soda, & box of candy

grill kit — seasoning, grilling utensils,

tool box filled with his favorite snacks

movie theater gift card

ways to be patriotic 18

1. Thank the service men and wom- 8. Talk to a war veteran about his or 14. Be informed en you pass by.

Send an encouraging card to someone you know who is serving in the military.

Line your driveway with small American flags on patriotic holidays like the Fourth of July, Veteran’s Day, and Flag Day.

Read the Declaration of Independence.

her experience.

9. Read a patriotic book. 10. Bring goodies to a local veter- 15. an’s hospital or home (checking with policy first).

11.

Fly the American flag at your house or in your room. Be sure to read up on proper flag etiquette first though!

Wear a patriotic shirt for holi5. Learn why we celebrate holidays 12. days like the Fourth of July, Veteran’s like Veteran’s Day and Flag Day.

Memorize the order of the Amendments of the Constitution.

7. Learn about the sacrifices Americans made during WWI and WWII.

during election season, whether or not you are old enough to vote.

Day, and Flag Day.

13.

Eat an MRE (Meals Ready to Eat) for dinner and talk about the sacrifices our troops who are deployed have to make.

Pray for the military service members currently serving.

16. Learn and sing as many patriotic songs as you can.

17. Stand, remove your hat, and

place your hand over your heart when you have an opportunity to recite the Pledge of Allegiance.

18.

Pray for the United States of America.

fun summer outdoor ideas! 10 by christine fetters

4. Fly a kite: I bought a kite for $1 and it was seriously the best $1 I have ever spent. I dare you not to love it! 5. Canoe: Find a youth leader or a parent to do this summer activity with you. Canoeing is one of the most relaxing things I have ever done. I recommend at least one float trip a summer. It really lets you soak in the beauty of summer without the distractions of everyday life. 6. Plant a garden: Even if you aren’t able to plant in the ground, get a medium size pot, pick a plant, and get your hands dirty! When we lived in an apartment I had a dozen of pots with both flowers and strawberries. It doesn’t take much time, and depending on the plant you choose, most of your time will be spent enjoying your work all summer long. 7. Star gazing: Lay out under the sky at night and try to count the stars. Look for constallations. Wonder how big our God really is. Praise Him because even though He is big and we

are small, He still cares about every little detail in our lives. And check out 1. Camping: It’s awesome to fall the sky August 11-13th for a meteor asleep outside listening to the crickshower that will leave you in awe. ets’ lullaby. Whether it’s at a camp8. Picnic: An old fashion picnic site or just in the backyard, grab your is so much fun! Grab an easy lunch, family or friends and make a night of pack a blanket, and go on your way. breathing in that fresh evening air! It is so much fun to eat with ducks 2. Parks: They are completely unand geese drooling over your lunch. derrated these days. There is nothIn fact, bring some bread and share ing more calming than a evening with them! stroll in the park either by yourself 9. Volunteer: In the summer or with loved ones. Take in the wonthere are a ton of volunteer oppurder of God’s handiwork by smelling tunites or events between churches the flowers, feeling that warm air, or and communities. Sign up for one! watching some crazy little critters. They don’t usually take a lot of time 3. Exercise: Summer is a great and they are a great way to get intime to give your body the exercise volved and build relationships. it needs. Have a bike? Find a great 10. Fruit & vegetable picking: bike trail and take that baby out for a Summer is a great time to pick some spin! Are you more the running type? healthy fruit and veggies. I always Find a fun 5K in your area. Even if you loved picking strawberries at the end aren’t into the whole she-bang of of June. Then we went out in July to being a hardcore runner, a 5K is still pick blueberries. August was always simple enough to just walk. Check my husband’s favorite to pick peachyour local community website for upes. And let’s face it, fruit just tastes coming events. better when you picked it yourself. 5

fashion

summer

fashion This cute ensemble is an adorable summer option! Denim shorts, a plain white tank top with a black buttonup sleeveless vest, and some pop-of-color accessories make this a great dressy casual outfit for the summer months.

Pair a casual tee with a cute kneelength skirt, a complimenting necklace, and a cute bag for a great breezy summer outfit.

Wide-legged pinstriped khaki pants go perfectly with a brightly colored short-sleeved sweater like this one in green! Add some pretty brown accessories and you have a great summer outfit.

beauty bits of

summer tips and trends

chapstick with SPF To protect your luscious lips from the sunâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s harmful UV rays, choose a chapstick that has an SPF in it.

protect your feet

As tempting as it may be to run around barefoot, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t! Preserve those soft soles by slathering your feet with thick, hydrating lotion at night and slipping your feet into socks to give your skin time to soak in the moisture. During the day, wea r flip flops at the very least when running around out side!

lighten up Swap out the foundation for a light bronzer instead. Summer is a great time to loosen the reigns on your getting ready routine. Try bronzer, a pale pink blush, a neutral colored eye shadow with a few strokes of mascara. To complete your sun-kissed summer look, find a chapstick with a hint of pink in it for a fresh look.

ombre The ombre hair coloring trend is when hair gradually gets lighter and more sun-kissed as it goes from the roots of the hair to the ends.

8 17

waterproof

mascara

Waterproof mascara can be a life saver when you’re hitting the lake , pool, or just plan on lying out in the backyard with the sprinkler pas sing over you. There’s nothing worse than constantly battling mascara that runs down your cheeks when it’s wet or dealing with the sting of run ny mascara in your eyes. Waterproo f mascara can preserve the look of your eye lashes relatively well. But ... rem ember how it’s summer vacation and we should all be lightening up? Bot h with our dispositions and with our make-up routines? Perhaps the time to start is when you’re hea ded to a body of water for an enjoyable time. Ditch the wand and be carefre e!

nge of wardrobe from long-sleeved Summer is upon us and so is a cha tops? shorts. What do we think of tank shirts and pants to tank tops and with s e of them — especially the one We like them. Well, we like som ones of the back and chest, and the thick straps, adequate coverage be dro war r you e an eye sore. Check that don’t allow bra straps to becom w thro nders. If you find one, don’t just for tank tops that make these blu era complimenting color T-shirt und it out! Layer another tank top or r! me sum ler wardrobe for the neath. Long live modesty and a coo

tank tops

We think it’s great to watch or read the news. It’s important to be informed about the events going on in our country and around the world. When you get the facts about various current events, you’re able to reach your own educated opinion rather than someone telling you what to think. If we don’t know what’s going on in the world, we don’t know how we take action or how we can pray. And imagine a world where we only know can about what’s going on in our own lives. How conceited would we all be! Sometimes it’s extremely helpful to be able to take in the current events and get a new perspective on our lives. But while we think watching or reading the news is really important, we also believe that there’s a balance. Consuming too much negative news about the economy, political corruption, crime, and natural disasters can weigh heavily on us and start affecting us. Above all we put our trust in God. He knows and sees all. Worrying about what we see going on in our world isn’t constructive! So strike a balance between being informed and being consumed.

the

news

to interview celebrities, politicians, business leaders, and community members on a daily basis. Your coworkers become your friends, and it’s pretty cool to see your friends on TV every day!

way

cooljobs! Not sure what you want to do with your life? Check out these way cool jobs for inspiration!

Jennie Olson Way Cool Job: Web Producer

What is your job like?

As a web producer, my job changes every day depending on the news. I write breaking news stories throughout the day and cover all the major happenings in the Twin Cities metro and Greater Minnesota area. I’m specifically in charge of covering about 20 suburbs, so if any news happens in my coverage area it is my responsibility to write about it. Because the web and social media are fast-growing fields, there’s a lot of diversity in my job. We stream breaking news videos, edit extended footage, create online polls and slideshows, manage social media, and write “web extra” information that you can’t find on TV.

While web producers are creating exclusive content, we also work very closely with the TV side of the newsroom to confirm stories, pitch ideas, and gather information. We help shape what the daily and evening newscasts look like every day.

What made you decide to choose that job?

My career started out as a process of elimination. I explored several other career options and nothing made me happier than writing. Once I knew I wanted to pursue communications, I started taking internships and getting involved in our university’s student media. From there I developed a passion for telling people’s stories.

What makes your job way cool? The newsroom environment is fastpaced and exciting. You never know what each day will bring and what breaking news could happen. You also have the unique opportunity

Deanna Peshl Way Cool Job: Hospital Nurse

What is your job like?

As a hospital nurse, every day is new and different. The pace of my day can change in an instant! It’s important to be organized, but equally important to be able to shift your focus when the time comes. Just when I think I am caught up with my work and a coffee break is on the horizon, something crazy happens that requires my attention. Being a nurse means you are a master of many things. You are a chameleon. This is because you need to be different things to different people. One patient may need you to be tough, while another just needs someone to listen. One doctor may be looking for some confirmation, but another doctor doesn’t want to hear what you think. That means being able to read people is huge part of what makes someone a great nurse.

What made you decide to choose that job?

When I was in junior high, my mom

was diagnosed with breast cancer. Our family experience throughout that time led me to have an interest in nursing. My mom and I had a routine of watching the show ‘ER’ together every week up until I went away to college. Even though nursing school is tough, I firmly believe that if I did it, then anyone can do it! You have to be focused and motivated. In the end, it is totally worth it. Another reason for choosing nursing as a profession is that I feel called to missions work. Volunteering my time with medical missions is a priority for me.

What makes your job way cool?

With a degree in nursing, the possibilities are endless. As I mentioned before, medical missions work is a big deal to me. I have already been able to travel overseas on a medical trip. Most hospitals and healthcare companies encourage their workers to participate in such trips. There are many different areas that a nurse can decide to focus on. I began my career on a busy Medical-Surgical Unit that received patients from all over the place. I learned so much on that unit because of the variety of patients. Now I am working in an Emergency Room where the overall goals of care are completely different from a Med/Surg unit. If working in a busy hospital is not your cup of tea, then an office or medical building might be a better fit. You aren’t pinned to one place. That’s the beauty of a nursing degree. And that’s why my job is so cool!

Aurelia Stratton Way Cool Job: Photographer

What is your job like?

I love what I do! I get to work in a lot of different environments as a photographer. Some days I am be-

hind the camera coaching and ministering to people all day and some days I am behind a computer screen all day editing, crunching numbers, preparing marketing pieces, studying, and answering emails. But most days are a healthy mix of both people and my desk. I’m thankful that Jesus is with me, coaching me and ministering to me in every circumstance I find myself in as I work.

What made you decide to choose that job?

This job really chose me. My husband was a photographer before I was and one day I was with him at a wedding and he handed me a camera and told me to go for it. I’m still learning but the past 9 years have been amazing! I stay in this job because I can work at home and be with my kids and serve people in the marketplace and the church. It’s a very competitive industry but nothing beats being creative and telling stories!

What makes your job way cool?

My favorite part about being a photographer is learning how to help people see themselves at their very best. So often women and girls look in the mirror and see everything that they don’t like about themselves. I choose to see beauty and the righteousness that only God’s grace can reveal. Ephesians 5:27 says that Jesus sees us as a radiant, spotless, pure, lovely bride. Our enemy doesn’t want us to believe that so I take my job seriously, it’s a battle every time I step into my studio to help girls see who they are eternally not just physically ... you are so much more than the reflection you see in the mirror, you are more than a snapshot, you are His masterpiece.... I am blessed to help women see themselves as an art piece in the process of being crafted by the Master, our Father God. It’s truly an amazingly cool job.

Lilly Bryant Way Cool Job: Teacher What is your job like?

My job title is actually Special Needs Kindergarten Dual Language Teacher. Being a kindergarten teacher is extremely fun and challenging at times. My job consists of teaching reading, language arts, math, science, social studies, and health. The interesting thing about my job is that I teach all day in Spanish. I am part of the Dual Language Program. At the kindergarten level, the students receive 80% instruction in Spanish (by me), and 20% instruction in English (English Language Teachers, Art, Gym, and Music Teachers). As they go up in grade level, they are taught more in English. My classroom is made up of native Spanish speakers, monolingual English speakers and special education students. Part of my job is to meet the needs of all my students. I work with a wonderful team that includes a special ed. teacher and two great assistants. The four of us work together to create and implement curriculum that will meet the needs of all of our students (differentiated instruction) while also meeting the State Standards. We use a lot of pictures, movement, gestures, and hands on activities. I really enjoy teaching kindergarten because it is the first year of school for most of my students, and it is amazing to see the “light bulb” go on when they understand a concept for the first time. It is so much fun to watch them learn and grow.

What made you decide to choose that job?

I chose to become a teacher because I enjoy working with children. I originally went to school to be a counselor. I have my Master’s Degree in Community Counseling and am a Li-

censed Professional Counselor. During my time counseling, I realized that my passion was working with kids. I felt the best way for me to do this was to teach. I have now been teaching for three years and absolutely love it. I adore my students and learn from them every day.

fun. I get to teach my students that learning is exciting! 1 Peter 4:10 says, “Each of you has been blessed with one of God’s many wonderful gifts to be used in the service of others. So use your gift well” (CEV).

What makes your job way cool?

My job is way cool because I get to teach in Spanish to students who already know the language and students who are learning it for the first time. It really is amazing to start the school year off with students who speak no Spanish and watch them develop the language so much so that by the end of the school year, they can have conversations in Spanish. I also think my job is way cool because I am not only a teacher, but I am also a musician, an artist, a dancer, a counselor, and so much more. My job is all about being creative and having

Charity Bennitt Way Cool Job: Business Owner What is your job like?

I am the owner and lead floral designer of He Loves Me Flowers and we specialize in designing floral arrangements for weddings and events.

What made you decide to choose that job? I worked at a flower shop right after

graduating from high school and soon found that I loved arranging flowers! So ever since then, it became a dream of mine to start my own floral business specializing in weddings.

What makes your job way cool?

Working with flowers and being creative is definitely the cool part of my job! I love having the privilege of being a part of a couple’s love story, even if it is as simple as creating the bridal bouquet. Also, I love that I am my own boss. This allows me flexibility to take a “day off” when I want or need to. As a business owner, it’s easy to allow yourself to get to the place where your business “owns” you, rather than you owning your business. So I try to keep my relationship with God and my family my top priorities, and then my business responsibilities next. Check us out: helovesmeflowers.com

summer

word find BARBECUE

BEACH BALL BIKING FRIENDS ICE CREAM MOVIES NO SCHOOL ROAD TRIP SLEEPING IN SLUMBER PARTIES SNACKS SUMMER VACATION WALKS

speaking

principles of and theology.

faith

Anointing. Has anyone ever prayed that the anointing of the Lord would rest upon you? It’s powerful. If you use that word in your prayer, ask that God’s blessing and favor would be with them and that the people around them would be able to sense that something is different about them and to start asking what sets them apart.

Christianese

Legalism. Being a Christian isn’t

For those of us who grew up going

to church Christianese is almost as native of a language to us as the one we speak daily. But are you excluding some of the people around you who might not be as familiar with the terms we use in our Christian life? Imagine how confusing and uncomfortable it would be to start coming to church in junior high or high school and to be surrounded by people who talk about a hedge of protection, Jesus tarrying, being washed in the blood, born again, and restored. Let’s take a look at some of the most common terms Christians use and some ways you can better communicate your point.

Sacred vs. Secular. How many

times do you refer to the culture and to schools as the “secular world”? Take a minute to explain what you mean. Sacred refers to something

of God — something set apart, something holy, reverent, or dealing with the church. Secular refers to things, places, or people that are not promoting God — things that are absent of God.

Born Again. This expression comes

from John 3:3-7 where Jesus said that no one could get to Heaven unless he was born again. Nicodemus was confused (understandably) and didn’t know how a person could enter his mother’s womb a second time to be born. What Jesus meant is that we become children of God when we give our lives over to Him. We are given new life. We are babies in our journey to be more like God. Babies are fed milk, and baby Christians are fed the fundamentals of what it means to be a Christian. But as babies grow up they begin to eat the same food their parents eat — food of substance like meat, and as Christians mature in their faith they are fed more substantial

about a list of do’s and don’ts and a strict way of life, which is what legalism is. Instead of using this term, perhaps explain to your unsaved friends that Christianity is not about a rulebook. It’s about lining up your thoughts, actions, and words with those of Jesus Christ and about further developing a relationship with Him every day.

Body of Christ. We who are famil-

iar with church understand that this phrase is typically used in communion when talking about the bread we take that symbolizes Jesus’ body that was pierced for our sins when He was crucified. It can also refer to the people in the congregation of a church, the different departments at a church, and even other churches make up the body of Christ. Refer to 1 Corinthians 12 if you need to read up on this interpretation of the phrase about how all parts are dependent on each other.

The Church. When you go to

church (little ‘c’) you go to a building. When you are referring to the

people that make up the congregation in that church or even all of the Christians in a particular area, you are referring to the Church (big ‘c’).

On Fire. People use this phrase now when we say “covered by the

Hedge of Protection. Perhaps

someone who used to be living their life for Jesus as a Christian starts introducing behaviors, attitudes, and words that don’t represent a godly lifestyle.

you could refer more to walls of protection or angels surrounding them.

Sanctification. This word means

being set apart from sin and refers to the process of becoming more like Christ. At the moment of salvation we are set apart for God’s purposes and are made clean from our sins, made holy, and are changed. But as we live out each day we mess up and need God to sanctify us and help us grow to be more like Him every day.

Brother or Sister. This is a title of

respect and refers to verses like Mark 3:35 and 2 Corinthians 6:18 that refer to people who are Christians as family.

when they are refrering to their commitment to the Lord. In Acts 2 Christians gathered and in their praying, tongues of fire appeared on their heads. The idea behind this phrase is that we would be so passionate about our relationship with God that it’s as if there’s fire. Revelation 3:15,16 talks about how we need to be either hot or cold, but by being lukewarm Christians we run the risk of being spit out.

Covered by the Blood. This par-

ticular phrase evokes images from the movie “Twilight”. What it actually means is that Jesus was crucified and His blood spilled so He could be the payment for our sins. In the Old Testament before Jesus came, people had to sacrifice animals. So

mixed

messages by katie mattiuzzo

I was stopped at a stoplight next to the most perfect example ever of a mixed message. The bumper sticker on the back of the car in the lane next to me said “God is my pilot.” Sweet, right? No … after careful examination the driver’s side door was completely bashed in (how someone managed to still use the door is beyond me) and there were massive scratches down the passenger side door. I actually giggled out loud in my car after seeing that. All I could think of was “God apparently didn’t do a good job piloting this individual’s

car” and “who would want a pilot like that?” Are you sending out mixed messages to the world around you? Do you have a Jesus fish on your car yet you still drive like a demon? Do you talk about youth group, church, and life as a Christian yet you still swear and cut down teachers you don’t like behind their backs? Do your actions, attitudes, and words line up with those of Jesus or are you guilty of slapping a bumper sticker on yourself that contradicts who you are?

blood,” it means that we have God’s forgiveness and protection.

Backslide. This term is used when

By now I’m sure your mind is racing with several other words or expressions not listed here, so take a minute to write them down and think about how you could better explain them to your unsaved or newly saved friends. This is not a matter of “dumbing things down” — it’s a matter of not assuming anything. You can’t assume all of your friends are fully grasping the powerful things you are talking about.

hilarious

bumper stickers Jesus loves you, but I’m His favorite! Know God, know peace. No God, no peace. Warning: in case of Rapture, this vehicle may be unoccupied Going to church makes you a Christian if standing in your garage makes you a car Consider: Amateurs built the Ark — Professionals built the Titanic Are you following Jesus this close? Don’t be a bumper sticker Christian God answers knee-mail Armageddon outta here When temptation knocks, send Jesus to the door

entertainment

center

inspiring worship leaders by jennie olson

pearances and song pictured: Darlene Zschech co-writes with Michael W. Smith, Kari Jobe, Darlene Zschech: “Revealing Jesus” Darlene Zschech’s live CD/DVD “Re- and Houghton. We love the upbeat vealing Jesus” album has one simple tunes and strong musicianship. Her message: we need more of Jesus credentials and awards aside, Zsrevealed in our lives. Zschech, who chech is truly an inspiring leader with is a world-renowned worship leader, a bold, unapologetic message. best-selling author, senior pastor of Hope Unlimited Church, and former Misty Edwards: “Only a Shadow” worship leader at Sydney’s Hillsong The latest album from International Church, has released a new album House of Prayer Worship Leader featuring 12 songs about God’s Misty Edwards is already influencprovisions, faithfulness, and power. ing worshippers around the world. The album was produced by five- “Only a Shadow” has debuted in the time GRAMMY Award-winner Israel Top 10 on Billboard’s Christian AlHoughton and features guest ap- bums Chart and was number one on

iTunes. The album comes with a DVD featuring a live performance at IHOP’s “Onething Conference” in Kansas City, Mo., and includes various worship songs from Misty’s decade of leading. Her songs are deeply moving prayers, often set to haunting melodies with a soft keyboard intro or bolder, guitar-driven anthems. “Only a Shadow” is an inspiring way to get people to join together with one heart, one mind, and one voice.

Joshua Price: “Nothing Without You”

Worship leader Joshua Price was called into the ministry nearly a decade ago. Since then, he has traveled all over the country, leading seminars and concerts and sharing his passion for the Gospel. Now, he’s continuing his impact on the national music scene with his latest EP, “Nothing Without You.” The album, which releases April 28, features six worship songs co-written with Conrad Johnson of Inertia Sound Studio. Between the smooth vocals, inspiring lyrics, catchy tunes, and top production value, we can’t wait to see what else he has up his sleeve.

top 10 Christian songs Whom Shall I Fear Chris Tomlin

#1.

Steal My Show Toby Mac

#6.

s One Thing Remain g rin atu Fe ion ss Pa stian Stanfill

#2.

Kri

Kings & Queens Audio Adrenaline

#7.

entertainment

(for the week of April 20, 2013, billboard.com)

Redeemed #Big3.Daddy Weave

ou Now Need Y Plumb

#8.

center

10,000 Reas

#4. Matt Redmonans #9.

Words Hawk Nelson

You Are the I Am MercyMe

#5.

Every Good Thing The Afters

#10.

Need some pointers on how to choose what movies and television shows to watch and music to listen to? Download the free Music, Movies, and TV Hot Topic at tgm.ag.org.

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water under the bridge & other every day English idioms by katie mattiuzzo Idioms are a funny part of the Eng-

lish language. And a confusing part for those who are unfamiliar with the expressions. Dictionary.com defines idiom as “an expression whose meaning is not predictable from the usual meanings of its constituent elements.” My translation of that definition is “a phrase that if taken literally would be ridiculous, so surely there is a broader, symbollic meaning for it.” Here are a few examples :

Keep Your Nose Clean

I love my little maltipoo puppy, Luna. She’s 7.5 lbs of white fluff and she’s

such a sweetheart. She’s has a dark side though which is pretty deceiving. There’s nothing better than catching a puppy in the act of doing something bad. They spin around to look at you, assume the low-to-the-ground “I’mabout-to-run-away” stance, and carefully study your body language to see what’s about to happen. They’re usually standing in or wearing evidence of their crime. To the left you can see the remnants of Luna’s Mr. Pumpkin Head toy (ironically, it was a gift for “graduating” from obedience school). Another time I walked in and found her chewing on a plastic wrapper. Another time I walked in to find her chewing on a pink highlighter … without the cap on. She wore a coat of many colors that day (ha, get my reference?). And I don’t know how many times she’s looked up at me with string, stickers, grass, or random food ingredients stuck to her nose from snoop-

ing around where she didn’t belong. While keeping your nose clean can take a literal meaning with a dog, it takes a figurative meaning with people. Stay out of trouble. Be found blameless. Work on developing a good reputation. Here are some ways to keep your nose clean: “Those who walk righteously and speak what is right, who reject gain from extortion and keep their hands from accepting bribes, who stop their ears against plots of murder and shut their eyes against contemplating evil — they are ones who will dwell on the heights, whose refuge will be the mountain fortress. Their bread will be supplied, and water will not fail them” (Isaiah 33:15,16, NIV). Your actions line up with what is right. You are honest, stand up for truth, and guard the words that you speak.

You have pure motives and get what you want through honest means. You do not participate in hurting other people or allowing it to happen without saying something. You do not entertain bad thoughts towards people. Here are a few more verses to read as you strive to keep your nose clean! “A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold” (Proverbs 22:1, NIV). “Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in the one Spirit, striving together as one for the faith of the gospel” (Philippians 1:27, NIV). “Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but whoever takes crooked paths will be found out” (Proverbs 10:9, NIV).

Water Under the Bridge

My junior year was the best year of high school. I had an awesome group of friends, my classes were really interesting, and I was actually participating in school events. It got even better when that spring I got wind that the guy in my group of friends that I had a crush on was going to ask me to prom. While out shopping one weekend my mom and I stumbled across a sale on prom dresses that was too good to pass up. So I bought a dress. A few nail-biting weeks later, he asked my close friend. But it’s all water under the bridge. One Sunday during my senior year

of high school my sister and I sang a duet for the offertory at our church. I had the first verse and my sister had the second verse. In hindsight (remember that word from a few blogs ago?!) I should have had her sing first so I could have had more time to reign in my nerves that were running willy-nilly. The video of that service is downright embarrassing to watch. I was stiff as a board and the shaking in my voice was not my vibrato. You’d never know I sang with two different worship teams, a choir, and a jazz ensemble. But the check in my spirit reminds me that I did it unto the Lord … not unto man. So it’s all water under the bridge. Perhaps the best example of this is our very own Jesus Christ. He was doubted, rejected, disputed, betrayed, beaten, and killed. Yet He let it be water under the bridge because He loved us so much. If I let the fear of being betrayed consume me, I’d never have a life rich in friendships. If I let the fear of putting myself out there stop me, I’d never know what it was like to grow. If Jesus threw in the towel and allowed His anger to control His actions, we’d all be doomed. When something happens that throws you off, do your best to deal with it and move on. Don’t hold a grudge. Don’t simmer in doubt. Don’t let it wreck your day. Let it just be water under the bridge. “See to it that no one falls short of the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many” (Hebrews 12:15, NIV).

Pick Your Brain

Have you ever talked with someone

feature story to find out more about a particular topic or opportunity? Asked for advice or an opinion of someone? Well, you picked someone’s brain. Asking for help is not something that comes naturally during your teen years because you have a strong desire to be viewed as independent in the eyes of your parents, but picking someone’s brain is highly encouraged. It doesn’t hurt anyone, it can launch you into a new understanding of life, and it can spare you a lot of pain and regret. Find a godly role model and pick his brain about how he made the choice of what college to attend, major to pursue, or spouse to marry. Find a profession you’re interested in and pick someone’s brain about volunteer opportunities you can be a part of to discover if it would be a good fit for you. Sit down with your mom or other trusted woman and pick her brain about a dating relationship you’re in or are thinking about starting. You’ll be amazed at how much more your parents trust you when they can see the wheels turning in your head instead of the little miss independent personae you so badly want to portray. Parents love to see their kids asking the right questions and growing, so pick away at someone’s brain and see what comes of it! Here’s what the Bible has to say about picking people’s brains (okay, it doesn’t phrase it quite like that, but godly counsel is very similar!): “Listen to advice and accept discipline, and at the end you will be counted among the wise” (Proverbs 19:20, NIV).

other silly

• on the fence • turning over a new leaf • hindsight is 20/20 • rome was not built in a day • cool as a cucumber • a chip on your shoulder • grass is greener on the other side • sick as a dog • a leopard can’t change his spots • rub me the wrong way • go out on a limb

idioms

supernatural

Our culture has become obsessed with the supernatural. Just look at the kinds of movies and television shows that are out now. People are hungry for the supernatural — but will they turn to God the Father for an amazing encounter? Take a look at these books:

n o i t i ed

Moon White

Book 11 in the TrueColors series by Melody Carlson

Searching for ways to bring her problems under control, Heather Sinclair explores the traditions of Wicca. Heather’s curiosity brings new confidence and reassurance but alientates her from others, including her best friend, who writes her off as a witch. Even so, this enchanted path seems harmless, even helpful. But when terrifying things begin to happen that Heather can’t explain, it becomes clear that she has less control over her world than ever before. Tugged between fear and hope, Heather puts herself in unexpected danger that leads her to the lowest

point of her life. There, however, she uncovers an unknown secret about her deceased mother and meets a compassionate stranger who leads her on a quest she never could have imagined.

Spiritual Warfare a NavPress book

Are you confused abut spiritual warfare and what it involves? You’re not alone; lots of people are in the dark about battling the powers of darkness. You might have seen many possible scenarios, but it all comes down to fighting for the eternal well-being of a person. With this book, you’ll learn what spiritual warfare is and how praise, prayer, authority, and other tools

are used. Battle the darkness with the power of God.

Escaping the Vampire by Kimberly Powers

About three things you can be absolutely positive: First, every girl longs to be loved with a vast and endless passion. Second, there is a fiercely protective Immortal Hero who longs for your heart. And third, He loves you with an unconditional and irrevocable love. This book is filled with true-life stories, advice, and the vital truth of Christ’s unconditional love. You’ll learn how to face the world with the confidence and courage that comes from being cherished and valued. So step into this epic love story. Your Hero awaits.

movie ideas rainy day for a

An American in Paris

Guys & Dolls

Breakfast at Tiffany’s

Gone with the Wind

The Grapes of Wrath

Footloose

The Parent Trap (the original)

Ben Hur

Citizen Kane

The Breakfast Club

Fiddler on the Roof

Annie

Bye, Bye Birdie

Chariots of Fire

The Ten Commandments

The Wizard of Oz

It Happened One Night

Casablanca

Pride & Prejudice

The Philadephia Story

The Buttercream Gang

It’s a Wonderful Life

Wurthering Heights

Anne of Green Gables

To Kill a Mockingbird

Grease

Meet Me in St. Louis

2. Which movie takes place in Kansas?

3. The Grapes of Wrath is about: a.) an animated pair of grapes that set out on an adventure b.) a family who seeks revenge on another family for a past injustice c.) a winery that goes out of business during WWI

d.) a family from the midwest who moves to California during the Great Depression 4. The real-life name of the star of The Wizard of Oz is: a.) Judy Garland b.) Katherine Hepburn c.) Grace Kelly d.) Elizabeth Taylor 4. a.)

1. Which movie has a main character named Kim McAfee? a.) Breakfast at Tiffany’s b.) Grease c.) Bye, Bye Birdie d.) To Kill a Mockingbird

a.) It’s a Wonderful Life b.) The Wizard of Oz c.) Annie d.) The Buttercream Gang

3. d.)

Use the above movies to answer the following trivia questions:

Answers: 1. c.) 2. b.)

movie trivia

SAY YES to the DRESS by candy tolbert

Before you gloss over this article, let me begin by explaining three things:

• The “dress” I refer to in the title is about wisdom in the fashion choices we make — not about throwing away those cute jeans and sweats! • Fashion is fun and OK! (Take it from a clotheshorse. I am not condemning beauty and fashion.) • The Bible is clear about appreciating girls who were beautiful and who knew how to dress. If you’ve been to the mall with your friends lately you have to agree that when it comes to fashion, it’s a war zone. It’s true. The battle begins in your mind as one side of your brain says that seductive, sensual exposure is just fashion after all. And the other side of your brain (as the voice of your mom and other significant 24 mentors echo in your ear) repeats 1 Timothy 2:9 over and over, “I also

want the women to dress modestly, with decency and propriety.” This Scripture in the Bible points to our attitudes, thoughts, and passions which in turn have everything to do with our inner beauty. And while God is certainly more concerned with this part of us — there is also a pretty consistent theme in the Bible for appreciating girls who were beautiful and fashion conscious: • Sarah — who was so beautiful that her husband Abraham was afraid other men might kill him so they could have his wife (Genesis 12:11-13).

beauty (Esther 2:7). So, if the Bible mentions beauty it must be important to be noted.

“

Consider I am the following pasand sage: “I praise you because I made am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well” (Psalm 139:14, NIV).

fearfully wonderfully

”

• Abigail — who was “intelligent and beautiful,” 1 Samuel 25:3.

Have you ever stood in front of a mirror and grumbled, “I hate my body? If only…” • I had longer legs •My eyes were a different shape and color • My hair was straight • My hair was curly

• Esther — maybe the Bible character most talked about for her

My own “if only” hit at age 13 when puberty arrived and my then tiny

• Rebekah — who is described in Genesis 24:16 as “very beautiful, a virgin.”

petite frame changed overnight to a height and weight that marveled my aunts and cousins at the annual family reunion. I found myself selfconscious and disappointed that every time I looked in a full-length mirror my mom’s 4’11”, 101 lb. body was not staring back at me. I hated the way I looked!

Tip #1: Make peace with your body! My ninth-grade year, however, was a turning point when I decided I was going to like me no matter what! To be clear, that didn’t mean I was free to live on junk food and Pepsi. But I did make peace with my body by accepting it for what it was which is a good place to begin for any girl whether your body type is pear shaped, apple shaped, hourglass, tall, big-boned, or petite like my mom’s.

Tip #2: Trash the fashion magazines! By now, you probably have been warned by your parents and teachers of the danger of cigarettes, drugs, and not enough sleep. But what about the fashion magazines that grace the counters of most grocery and drug stores? These are also hazardous to your health! In fact most of them should include a warning label: “Side effects may include the following.” • Depression • Guilt about weight which can lead to starvation/over-eating • Shame about a less than perfect body

girls. These publications aren’t looking out for you. They are a money-making business using girls like you to pad their pockets by selling magazines. Unfortunately — for some — the end result is depression, jealousy, disillusionment, and self-loathing. The perfect, size 2 model pictured in the magazine is not reality.

feature story tight shirts that show your stomach. Just wear clothes that allow a guy to keep his mind and attention focused on the amazing girl you are on the inside.” Kyle, 17

“I would tell girls that dressing immodestly isn’t the way to attract Christian guys. For me and the vast majority of Christian guys I know, showing too much skin is a turnoff. Tip #3: Say yes to the dress. Be If you want to impress a guy, I would creative and stylish in your own suggest a nice pair of jeans and a Tfashion choices. shirt. We’d prefer that to a halter top First impressions are important. In and a miniskirt any day.” Oliver, 15 whatever we choose to wear, you I like this statement from the Virtue and I make a conscious decision Pledge found on www.virtuousrealabout how we want to look. But ity.com which reads in part: “I realize do you realize that how you look the clothes I wear are a reflection of affects how people treat you? As my heart and my intentions. I will not an extreme example my daughter wear clothes of a revealing nature wouldn’t put on her cutest swimsuit that may cause my Christian brothers to wear to Sunday morning worship to stumble spiritually. I will base my service anymore than she would clothing choices on this question, ‘If wear a dressy dress to the beach. Jesus were to return today, would I There are certain things we wear feel comfortable coming face-to-face to certain places. That’s because with Him wearing this outfit?’” clothing is more than just fashion. Wise choices say something about Take the test. Ask yourself that queswho she is, and why she is there. tion and then see if you can look in a And it helps people decide how full length mirror and confidently say to treat her. In short, clothes are a to God, “I praise you because I am great clue about who is underneath fearfully and wonderfully made; your the trendy outfit. works are wonderful, I know that full well,” Psalm 139:14. To illustrate: In an issue of Teen Virtue, 25 guys between the ages of 14 and 18 were polled and asked Candy is the director of the national Girls Ministries Department. this question: “If you could give Working alongside her husband girls one piece of honest advice, for 30 years, her extensive miniswhat would it be?” While all of their try background includes Christian answers are straightforward and education, music ministry, misfull of truth, these two stand out sions, public speaking, and writas it pertains to modesty, decency, ing. She and her husband Michael are the proud parents of two daughters, one son-in-law, and and propriety.

And the hypocrisy of it all is that these same magazines preach about healthy eating, encouragtwo grandbabies. Candy enjoys home decorating you to accept your body as it is “If I could give girls one piece of ing, good coffee, and baseball – especially the alongside pictures of air-brushed, advice, it would be simply to dress St. Louis Cardinals. paper thin models! Don’t be fooled modestly and please do not wear

the supernatural, this wasn’t something Clarissa wanted to be a part of. At all. “Stacy, lay down in the middle of the tent and we’ll all gather around you,” Mandy continued.

count on

Clarissa “Slumber Party”

The girls began to rearrange themselves in the tent to make room for Stacy to lay down. “We have to say something to stop this,” Clarissa whispered to Andrea. “It’s like, a séance game where people try to make someone lift off the ground. It’s satanic.” “What?! Oh my word, what do we do?” Andrea questioned.

After several squirrely and giddy moments of talking and laughter one of the can’t wait for Stacy’s sleepover girls, Mandy, spoke up. on Friday,” Clarissa said to her best friend Andrea as she grabbed “Have you guys ever played ‘Light as a binder out of her locker and Feather’ before?” slammed the door. “No. What’s that?” another girl asked.

“I don’t know! I mean, we have to figure out what to say. If we can’t convince them to play something else instead I think I want to go home. Call me crazy, but I don’t want to mess with that stuff. They probably don’t mean anything by it, but that’s not something I want to open myself up to,” Clarissa explained.

“I know! It’s going to be so much fun. I’m just excited we got invited! It’ll be awesome to get into a new group of friends” Andrea replied.

“Oh no, me neither. I’m with you. My parents could come get us. They were just going to be down the road tonight,” Andrea offered.

“I

“And how fun that we’ll all be sleeping in a tent in the backyard! I love that the summer weather is on its way,” Clarissa excitedly exclaimed. “Amen, sister,” Andrea agreed. That night at Stacy’s house, the girls all loaded up their plates with snacks and headed out to the tent in the wooded backyard to start the fun.

Clarissa felt her face start flush and her stomach sink. She had heard of the game before. One person lies on the floor while other people gather around them and slide two fingers from both hands underneath the person’s body who is lying down, palms up. Then everyone begins to chant “light as a feather, stiff as a board” over and over again, starting as a whisper and growing to a loud declaration. Allegedly the person’s body can float off the ground by some unknown force. Whether it truly is a scientific phenonenom or a trick using

All of the other girls had gotten into position around Stacy who was lying down in the middle of the tent. Nervous giggles fanned through the girls and everyone got quiet and waited for Mandy to lead them in the first step of the game. Clarissa and Andrea joined the group and anxiously searched the faces of the other girls, hoping to find other

possible allies in their cause for playing a different game. No such luck. Everyone looked intensely involved in what was about to happen.

of food and made their way through the tent to the door and unzipped it, letting a warm breeze of summer night air in. They zipped the door behind them and walked through “Hey, I’m not really sure we should the yard back to the house without be doing this,” Clarissa blurted out, saying anything. surprised by her boldness. Once inside, the girls stood in the “Why not?” Mandy asked as all eyes kitchen and just looked at each other. turned to Clarissa. “Well … should we wait it out or call “Well, I’ve seen this game played my parents?” Andrea asked. on a movie before and I just don’t really think we should be messing “I say call your parents. We’ve only around with that kind of stuff,” Cla- been at this party for an hour … rissa explained. who knows what else could happen throughout the rest of the night. I “What kind of stuff?” Mandy ques- guess we shouldn’t have been so tioned, annoyed at Clarissa’s con- anxious to have a sleepover with this frontation. group when we barely knew them. “Like, demonic stuff. Conjuring the We clearly have different views on a spirit world. Saying chants … that lot of things,” Clarissa said. kind of stuff. Demons are real and it “Okay. I’ll call them,” Andrea rekind of freaks us out to play a game sponded. “What do we tell Stacy that might open ourselves up to and them?” that world,” Clarissa explained as she grabbed Andrea’s arm for moral “We’ll just tell them ‘thanks for invitsupport. ing us but we think we’re going to get going’ and that we’ll catch up “But we know lots of other fun with them back at school on Mongames we should play!” Andrea day,” Clarissa coolly stated. “We’ll piped in, excitedly. have Stacy open our birthday pres“Well I kind of wanted to see what ents to her first so we can leave on a would happen with this game,” happy note.” Stacy said as she started to sit up. “Sounds good,” Andrea said. “It seems harmless. Surely it’ll be okay. But you guys can go wait in the Back at school on Monday things house if you want and we can come were a little awkward with Stacy and get you when we’re done playing.” Mandy, but they weren’t hostile. Little did Clarissa and Andrea know “Okay,” Clarissa and Andrea re- at the time, but Mandy had all kinds sponded. They grabbed their plates

of games planned for them to play along the same lines as Light as a Feather. After a few hours of games and scary stories, some of the other girls had a fitful night’s sleep in the tent in the backyard because they couldn’t stop thinking about everything they had talked about and tried when it came to the spirit world. Mandy was one of those who was too scared to sleep. Clarissa and Andrea were so glad they got a ride home when they did so their minds weren’t filled with stories of ghosts and with experiments with the occult. Philippians 4:8 says, “Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise” (NLT). And Joshua 1:9 says, “Be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go” (NLT). These verses had definitely become the theme verses for this experience for Clarissa and Andrea. “Well I guess I won’t be so quick to get involved with a new group of friends until I’ve had some time to get to really know them first. And I definitely won’t have a sleepover with them until I get to know them or it’s at least a sleepover on my home turf!” Clarissa said to Andrea as they walked into the cafeteria for lunch. “Um, yeah. Totally,” Andrea declared.

how confident are you? 1. When something is going on that I don’t agree with, I: ______________________________

3. In your own words, write the defi- 4. The last time I stood up for what I nition of confident: _______________________________ believed was: ___________________

______________________________

_______________________________

2. One word to describe me is: ______________________________

_______________________________

reputations by jennie olson What do people think of when

they hear your name? Maybe they think of you as someone who is kind or friendly. Maybe they associate you with being good at math or being able to play the guitar better than anyone else in your school. Maybe you’re known as the kid with the funny laugh. What people think of you makes up your reputation. And what contributes to your reputation more than anything else is your character. So what kind of character do you have? Consider these scenarios: You know that you shouldn’t be texting that cute boy from your math class since you have a boyfriend, but you do it anyways and just hope your boyfriend doesn’t find out. You know that you should have submitted your term paper before midnight, but you lie to your teacher that your Internet wasn’t working. You know that you

shouldn’t have been watching that movie with sex scenes and crude dialog, so you tell your parents that you were just hanging out at your friend’s house and talking. At first it seems like no one will notice these things, but eventually little lies, exaggerations, and half-truths can hurt your credibility. All it takes is getting caught in a lie once before you get a reputation as being deceitful. The Bible makes it clear that our secret sins won’t stay secret forever: “ You may be sure that your sin will find you out” (Numbers 32:23, NIV). God calls us to be inherently honest and hold a high standard of integrity. This means that even if you think deception isn’t a big deal, He does because He cares about your testimony and reputation. Having character can give you favor with teachers, neighbors, employers, and

coworkers. But if you get a reputation for being shady, how is anyone supposed to believe you when you talk about your faith? God calls us to

“

inherently honest high standard of integrity”

A n o t h e r be benefit of and being honhold a est is that it will protect you. If your actions are truly blameless, you can stand before a teacher, parent, or courtroom knowing that you are innocent. And if your reputation backs this up, you will also be given the benefit of the doubt more often than someone with a reputation for being deceitful. Have you ever noticed how refreshing it is to be around someone whose judgment you can trust? When those around you don’t think

their secret sins are a big deal, it can become very easy to justify them in your own life. That’s why it’s important to surround yourself with people who hold the same standard of integrity as you do. Besides, sometimes you can get a bad reputation just based on association.

nias and Sapphira (Acts 5:1-11). What were the positive or negative consequences of each person’s actions? Who showed integrity and who showed dishonesty? What was the final outcome? Also, for a quick look at how to keep your reputation honorable, check out Hebrews 13.

Here’s my challenge to you. Read the stories of Daniel (Daniel 1-12), Joseph (Genesis 37-45), and Ana-

Building a good reputation can sometimes take years, but each decision that you make will either

feature story build your credibility or tear it down. You only have one name, and it’s up to you to help determine what people think of when they hear it. Jennie Olson is a Web Producer at the ABC News affiliate, KSTP, in Minneapolis, MN. She graduated from Evangel University in December 2009 with a degree in Journalism.

Read Proverbs 22:1

What is a reputation? ________________________________________________________________________ Why is a good reputation so important to God?_________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________ How are reputations and character related? ____________________________________________________

Read Ecclesiastes 10:1

What does this verse mean? __________________________________________________________________ How is it that reputations can take so long to build but can be ruined with one little incident? _________

___________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________

Can you think of someone who has been in the media recently whose reputation was damaged?

___________________________________________________________________________________________

Have you ever had your reputation damaged because of false accusations? How did the situation resolve?

___________________________________________________________________________________________

Read Colossians 3:12

If you were to ask those around you what your reputation is, what would they say? ___________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________

Would your reputation be described like the qualities in this verse? ________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________ What can you do to start building a reputation that includes qualities like the ones mentioned in this verse? ___________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________

Read Philippians 1:27

How are our reputations important as Christians? How can a bad reputation prevent us from being effective witnesses? __________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________

like,love,&dating dating relationships There are many theories about dating out there — everything from dating at whatever age to waiting until you’ve reached a certain age like 16, waiting until you’re in college or are ready to pursue marriage, or even dating being arranged and directed by the parents. Regardless of what philosophy you and your parents have decided on for your dating relationships, you can enjoy these quotes that answer the following question:

What is the best dating advice you could offer to a teenage girl?

“Respect yourself.”

“You have time to date. It’s better to get to know the boy in group settings first. Watch how he treats his mom, sister, and other people. If he doesn’t respect others and treat others well, he will eventually treat you that way. You will not change him no matter how hard you try.”

“Don’t.” “Remember that you can choose. Just because a guy likes you doesn’t “If you have to pursue him, he isn’t mean you have to be so flattered ready for you.” that you don’t stop and decide if “Just because a guy says all the right you like him back.” things and does all the right things it “If you were already married and doesn’t always mean he is a good guy. wouldn’t do something with another And don’t change for someone — be man, don’t do it with your boyfriend proud of who you are! Save yourself — the more kept sacred, the more for marriage — it will mean more.” you’ll treasure later.” “You are smart, you are strong, and “Don’t be desperate to have a boy- you are beautiful. You do not have to friend. If a guy says he wants to mar- compromise in order to be loved or ry you because God said so when accepted.” you know he is wishy washy in his “The best boyfriend I ever had was walk with God, don’t believe him.” the one I was best friends with and “Don’t put yourself in compromis- could always laugh with about the ing circumstances.... For example: silly goofy things.” sitting alone in a parked car at your “Though I mostly dated guys who local park. Also, guys will respect were just like me, I married one who you when you respect yourself.” was opposite. It’s easy to like yourself, “Don’t think you need a guy, because but your opposite pushes you, challenges you, and grows you in ways you don’t.”

you’ll never expect or do to yourself. I’m continuously finding how thankful I am for that.” “Go on some dates with your dad first. Let him teach you how a lady should be treated and what the Bible says about dating and marriage. Then you’ll know what kind of man to look for ... it’ll save you a lot of heartache!” “It’s okay to go on one date with someone, to see how things go and get to know them, but don’t feel obligated to become an item. Take your time, there’s no rush to be serious about anyone. And don’t let romantic comedies become your idea of reality. Those stories are not real life.” “1. Always have God first in your life. 2. Be friends; take it slow, you won’t get married until you graduate college, you have time to take it slow. Don’t do something you will regret later. You have time.” “If a guy takes time away from your walk with God or serving God, he’s not the one. And if you wouldn’t do something with your grandma in the room, don’t do it!” “Never get in a car with a guy who honks.”

Teen Girl Daybook m onday

may

tu e sd ay

wednesday 1

thursday 2

friday 3

Jesus first appeared to a woman after His resurrection. He values women! What calling does He have for you today? Pray about this.

What would’ve happened if Deborah hadn’t done her job? Ask God to help you become what He has called you to be.

Mary could have been as young as 12 in this passage. You are never too young to hear from God. What is God trying to speak to you?

John 20:11-18

Judges 4

Luke 1:26-38

women of the Bible 6

Like the young servant girl who helped Naaman, everyone can be used. Do you ever feel insignficant? How can you overcome that?

2 Kings 5:1-6

David was a leader, even at a young age. He was willing to stand against Goliath when no one else would. How can you be a leader at church, school, or home?

Miriam played a huge role in saving her little brother! Would you be willing to do the same for your siblings? Ask God to help you trust His will.

Jesus used the lunch of a small boy to feed thousands of people! What do you have that God could use to serve others?

Jacob was not well-liked by his brothers. How could he have acted differently to help his relationship with them? What do you learn from this story?

1 Samuel 17

Exodus 2:1-10

John 6:1-15

Genesis 37:1-11

k i d s a n d t e e n s o f t h e B i bl e 13

Talk with a friend or family member about a tragedy that caught you off guard suddenly.

Journal — What role does knowing Jesus play in our lives when tragedies happen?

Ecclesiastes 9:12

John 16:33

15 Think about a recent national tragedy caused by sin. Was your reaction similar to Habakkuk’s?

Habakkuk 3:16

16 Jesus can shine in our lives even during tragedy. Prepare your testimony so you can give hope to someone in need.

1 Peter 3:15

17 Make a list of the blessings you’ve witnessed in your life or your loved ones’ lives after a tragedy.

Romans 8:28

tragedy 20

Journal — What does this verse mean? How can you apply it to your life?

I Thessalonians 4:11

Even Jesus felt the need to withdraw and be quiet. Spend some quiet time with Jesus today.

Luke 6:12

Can you relate to Job? What causes these feelings? How can those feelings be reversed?

Job 3:26

Write the name of someone who you’re reminded of when you read this verse. Tell that person your thoughts.

1 Peter 3:4

Go outside and take a walk. Spend time talking to God as well as just being quiet.

Genesis 19:27

quietness 27

Look up the words prejudice and discrimination in the dictionary. How do these words relate to this passage?

Galatians 3:26-29

Journal — What does this passage reveal about how God views people?

Genesis 1:26,27

This passage describes where different languages came from. Choose a language and learn a few key vocabulary words.

Genesis 11:1-9

Moses’ life was spared because the princess put aside prejudice. Find a news story that demonstrates people overcoming prejudice.

Exodus 2:1-10

pre j u d i c e c

Jesus was not welcomed because of prejudice. Have you witnessed prejudice? Talk about it with a friend.

Luke 9:52,53