setapartgirl MAY/JUNE 2011 issue

setapartgirl

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:

sisters meet the new

setapartgirl interns! p. 60

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MAY/J UNE 2 011

letter from leslie BEST-SELLING AUTHOR FOUNDER, SET APART GIRL

So many exciting things are happening here at Set Apart Girl! First, we have our upcoming Set Apart Girl annual conference May 27-29 – with lots of fun extra touches and a powerful fresh message that I am so eager to share!

Check out the new details

about our upcoming conference (HERE) and if you are still thinking about joining us – yes,

Let There Be Light Photography

there is still room!

We’d love to share this

powerful weekend with you at our beautiful Ellerslie campus – I know it will be an unforgettable experience! Added bonus: May in Colorado is absolutely gorgeous!

Secondly, at our upcoming conference, we will be releasing the first volume in my Set-Apart Girl Study series, called True Beauty. This will be a DVD series and Bible study guide designed for small groups who desire to explore the practical side of being set apart for Christ. If you are interested in this resource, we’ll be announcing it on our website sometime soon!

And thirdly, God has brought a team of wonderful young ladies to join the ministry of setapartgirl! These girls are all Ellerslie graduates and they are passionate about reaching today’s young women with God’s message of hope, life, and Truth!

It has

been so refreshing working alongside of them – each one of our team members has a beautiful servant’s heart and has gone above and beyond the call of duty to help expand the reach of setapartgirl. Our goal (Lord willing) is to take our magazine to print sometime in Spring 2012.

Learn more about our team on page 60.

We hope you enjoy this new magazine issue and may it draw you closer to your King with every page!

Leslie Copyright 2011 The Church at Ellerslie. All rights reserved.

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letter from annie CREATIVE DIRECTOR

There are many women who have influenced my walk in becoming a woman of God. Those who have a gentle and quiet spirit, the ones who speak with uncompromised boldness for the Gospel, and those who beautifully endure with joyful, tensile strength even in the greatest of challenges. Great women in Christian history have also shown me the power of God living inside of a surrendered, feminine life.

Among these women of influence is my mum.

She has taught by example order, hospitality, prayer, faithfulness, thoughtfulness, warmth, perseverance, joy, faith, and even elegant style.

How much I would have had to learn elsewhere had she not modeled these attributes and

Annie & her mum, Sunday

disciplines with the steady, day-to-day given-ness

Read Annie’s article “Beautiful Provision” inspired by her mother on p. 82

that a mom should have.

And for this I love her

and am grateful beyond words.

In the areas of personal style and feminine expression my mum has passed on the principles of contentment, elegance, and faith. She always praised character in me rather than outward beauty and she championed me dressing like a lady and yet never allowed me to get caught up in passing fashion trends. She taught me the joy found in a bargain, and she modeled with her own life that when we are surrendered and faith-filled in our requests before God, then even our wardrobe can be a testimony of His provision!

May this issue freshly inspire you to surrender even more of your life to Jesus, remind you to show gratitude to those who have been the examples of Christ in your life, and further equip you to be an influence in this generation as a set-apart young woman - walking in triumph, elegance, surrender, and completely in love with Jesus!

Cheering you on,

annie

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set apart femininity Explore God’s Sacred Intent for Your Life Come Away Top 10 Time Wasters, Part 3 (drama)

10 18

set apart relationships

Honoring God in Love and Romance Warrior Poet(s) Speak Up Reconciliation

30 40

set apart walk

Cultivate Your Daily Romance with Christ Running for the Kingdom Daddy’s Hands

46 52

set apart style

Showcasing the Radiance of Christ Beautiful Provision Adorning Your Life with Truth

78 88

set apart motherhood

Discover God’s Heart for Home and Family Children Tie the Mother’s Feet The Kiddo Spot

100 106

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6 5

ineveryissue 8

our contributors

44

devotional

56

sister(s) of the common life

84

q&a with leslie

95

set apart voices

110

reaching the orphan

135

staff book recommendations

30

78

40 Copyright 2011 The Church at Ellerslie. Â All rights reserved. Â No material from this website may be copied, reproduced, or distributed without express written permission from The Church at Ellerslie.

setapartintroductions leslie

FOUNDER, SET APART GIRL

Leslie Ludy is a bestselling author and speaker with a passion for reaching her generation with the hope of Christ.

She and her husband Eric have been writing and speaking together for the past fifteen years. Widely known for their bestselling classic, When God Writes Your Love Story, Eric and Leslie have become foremost voices on some of the most poignant issues facing the Church today, such as relationships, purity, holiness, and living a fully consecrated life for Christ. Together, they are the authors of eighteen books that have been translated into over a dozen languages around the world. For more about Leslie’s books, click here.

Leslie and Eric are the founders and directors of Ellerslie Leadership Training based in Windsor, Colorado – an intensive discipleship training program that prepares future leaders for world-impacting Christian service, and draws men and women of all ages from around the world.

annie

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Annie Wesche is the Creative Director for both Set Apart Girl and Ellerslie Leadership Training. As editor and designer of setapartgirl online magazine, Annie has won the hearts of young women around the globe with her sense of style, warmth of manner, and passion for Jesus Christ. Annie’s heart is gripped with a love for orphaned and vulnerable children and she has traveled internationally as a professional photographer to tell their stories and champion their rescue.

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Let There Be Light Photography

setapart QUOTE "The first great and primary business to which I ought to attend every day is to have my soul happy in the Lord."

- George Muller Copyright 2011 The Church at Ellerslie. Â All rights reserved. Â No material from this website may be copied, reproduced, or distributed without express written permission from The Church at Ellerslie.

setapartwriters tessa hershberger

WRITER | OHIO

Tessa Hershberger is 24 years old and from Akron, Ohio. She currently serves in the Editorial Department for setapartgirl, where she keeps busy writing and editing articles, as well as planning for the upcoming print magazine. She is passionate about the return of Biblical masculinity and femininity, as well as a Christianity in which the victory and grandeur of the Gospel is the living reality of the Church. With a desire to be used of God to take that reality to the nations, she is particularly burdened for the people of Thailand, where she previously spent time staffing and teaching in a School of Biblical Studies with Youth With a Mission.

amy meyers

WRITER | ILLINOIS

Amy moved to Colorado in May of 2010 from a small town in Illinois. Since childhood, she has had a tremendous passion for both Jesus Christ and the written word. Now, at age 21, Amy joyfully serves in the Editorial Department of setapartgirl, beautifully combining her two greatest delights into one amazing job. When she is not busy writing, editing, or helping out with various other ministry tasks, Amy enjoys slipping away to snag some much-loved kiddo time.

mandy saeler

WRITER | PENNSYLVANIA

Serving as administrative support here at setapartgirl, this 19 year old Western Pennsylvanian girl has proven her passion to fully spend her life for Jesus, from research, writing, and reviews to errands, event set up, and uplifting encouragement. Mandy can create amazing beauty using fabric and coffeestained paper, and also treasures investing truth into the lives of children. She is passionate to see young women restored from ruin and transformed into newness in Christ Jesus.

marlene de vente

WRITER | SOUTH AFRICA

Marlene de Vente is a 29-year-old creative designer all the way from South Africa. Her dedication and talent has richly blessed the ministry of setapartgirl.

Through her dedication and design skills she has been such a beautiful addition to our team. Soon to be graduating from Ellerslie Leadership Training, Marlene has both a passion for the Gospel and a desire to bloom wherever she is planted by the Lord. You’ll be inspired by her writing and soon, blessed by her contributions through the design of setapartgirl.

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setapartphotographers lauren torres

PHOTOGRAPHER | ILLINOIS

This 22 year-old small-town girl from Illinois moved to Colorado for Ellerslie Leadership Training and quickly won our hearts through her love for beauty, her eye behind her Canon lens, and her passion for young women to encounter Jesus Christ. Now serving in the Creative Department of setapartgirl, Lauren’s elegant style and creative inspiration will cause you to fall in love with her work.

Be on the lookout for her photography in future issues!

chenoa casamayor

PHOTOGRAPHER | ALBERTA

Chenoa Casamayor is 22 and lives with her family in Calgary, Alberta, Canada.

She and her sister Pilar are both photographers and the girls behind Let There Be Light Photography, a business they started three years ago. They have a passion for taking beautiful images that “capture the moments people never want to forget” and bring glory to the Creator! Chenoa desires to see the girls of this generation transformed by the truth of God’s word and His unfailing love.

madison conrad

PHOTOGRAPHER | COLORADO

Madison Conrad is a 22 year-old full-time photographer based out of Colorado Springs, CO. Madison has worked several years in a ministry and now owns her own photography business, Madison Kiley Photography. Her dream is to love people and show them their true worth in Christ through her pictures, whether it's on the “mission field” or in a wedding. She lives at home and enjoys every moment of living the "normal" life in a Christ-filled extraordinary way.

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Come Away

S

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The worldchanging impact of a set-apart life

by Leslie Ludy

a

few weeks ago I spoke at a women’s retreat. I shared my testimony, the story of how God called me to “come away” from the world; to give up my pursuit of popularity, male approval, material comforts and pop-culture attractions in exchange for a life built completely around Jesus Christ. I talked about reforming my “free time” activities exchanging my habits of constant socializing and pleasure-seeking for long, uninterrupted time in the presence of my King.

I talked about how my life radically changed; how I left the perverse worldliness of my public high school (and homeschooled instead) in order to seek Him with an undivided heart; how I walked away from the dating scene in order to live truly set-apart for my future husband; how I lost most of my shallow, self-focused friends but learned how to build lasting relationships with my family members and Godly older women in my church community. I talked about the unmatched joy and fulfillment that flooded my life when I finally chose to “come away” with my King, leaving behind the empty pleasures of the world and building my life around intimacy with Him. After my first session was over, a church leader confronted me. “I think what

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you shared was too extreme,” she told me.

“We teach our women that in order to become the fragrance of Christ they cannot be ‘fortressed in’ from the world. They must be part of the world in order to reach it.”

She asked me to soften my message about “coming away from the world.”

Needless to say, I didn’t. After all, the title of my conference was Set Apart Femininity, not Be Like the World Femininity.

But the conversation got me thinking about how many modern Christians have bought the lie that we must “be part of the world in order to reach it.” That living setapart for our King will make us seem legalistic and unapproachable. That somehow the more like the world we can become, the more influence we will have upon them.

Is this God’s prescription? Does He applaud when we participate in worldliness so that we can make ourselves more appealing to unbelievers?

His Word is clear: “Come out from among them and be separate, says the Lord. Do not touch what is unclean, and I will receive you." (2 Cor. 6:17) This doesn’t mean that we hibernate away in a cave or barricade from the world in a nunnery somewhere. In fact, God commands us to go into all the world and make disciples in His name; to seek and save the lost just as Jesus did.

But how? By engaging in the same behavior and lifestyle as everyone else so that we can be accepted by secular society? No. Rather, the Bible says that we Copyright 2011 The Church at Ellerslie. All rights reserved.

Does He applaud when we participate in worldliness...

so that we can make ourselves more appealing to unbelievers?

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should expect to look strange to the world because of our set-apartness: “…he does not live the rest of his earthly life for evil human desires, but rather for the will of God. For you have spent enough time in the past doing what pagans choose to do—living in debauchery, lust, drunkenness, orgies, carousing and detestable idolatry. They think it strange that you do not plunge with them into the same flood of dissipation, and they heap abuse on you.” (1 Peter 4:4) God says that our lives will give off an appealing fragrance to those who are ready to receive Christ – but to those enslaved to sin, our separation from the world will cause great offense everywhere we go: “For we are to God the aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing. To the one we are the smell of death; to the other, the fragrance of life.” (2 Cor. 2:15-16) Being set-apart is not a hamper to our Christian witness. Being set-apart is our Christian witness.

Spreading the Fragrance of Christ When I married Eric, name. I became Mrs. Eric on Eric’s name to solidify covenant with him. It

I took on his Ludy. I took my marriage wasn’t just

accepting the title “Mrs. Eric Ludy” – it was a total change of focus and lifestyle.

What would be the point of taking on the name Ludy if I didn’t change my life after the wedding? What if, after the vows were spoken, I went back to my own house, slept alone in my own bed, and went about my daily life as if I were still single? Bearing Eric’s name meant building my life around my new name.

To truly bear the name of my husband – not just in title, but in my daily reality – I had to leave my own life behind and join my groom in a new life. I had to become one with him.

To become a true Christian – the one who bears the name of Jesus, our beloved Bridegroom – we must leave behind our own life, and come away with Him. We must put aside all of our own selfish desires and pursuits. He must become the sole focus and worship of our lives. As it says in Psalm 45:10-11, “Listen, O daughter, Consider and incline your ear; Forget your own people also, and your father's house; So the King will greatly desire your beauty; Because He is your Lord, worship Him.” We must leave behind our old lives. Like Henry Blackaby said in Experiencing God, “You cannot stay where you are and go with God.” I once read a speech given by a Jewish father at his son’s bar-mitzvah.

He exhorted his son not to apologize for being Jewish, but to unapologetically embrace the holy calling upon his life:

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“To be holy is to be different. That which is holy is set apart. What is a Jew? It is the courage to be different. While the rest of the world strives to be loved, the Jew strives to be holy. While the rest of the world strives to impress their fellow man, the Jew strives to impress none but God alone.” (Rabbi Shmuley Boteach, Never Fear

holy temple of the living God, we will not be understood or accepted by the sinful, carnal world around us. In fact, if we are applauded and approved by secular society, in all likelihood we are not truly allowing the Spirit of God to fully own and operate us.

Jesus said, “If the world hates you, Being Hated, www.worldnetdaily.com) you know that it hated Me before it hated A set-apart young woman has the you. If you were of the world, the world courage to be different. As Leonard would love its own. Yet because you are Ravenhill wrote, “He (or she) who fears not of the world, but I chose you out of God fears no man.” While other young the world, therefore the world hates women strive to be noticed and accepted you.” (John 15:18-19 NKJV) by the world, the set-apart young woman The scorn we receive might not cares for no opinion but God’s. Most of come only from unbelievers. If we us spend an incredible amount of time embrace the sacred decorum of set-apart and effort trying to explain away the holy femininity, it is probable that many of our calling upon our lives, rather than un- fellow Christians will look at us with a apologetically embracing it and allowing sketchy eye. That’s because many God to accomplish this profound miracle modern Christians, like the woman who in and through us. confronted me the other day, are far more To join the ranks of set-apart concerned about impressing the world women throughout history, it is critical than being consumed with Christ alone. that we lay down our craving for the The popularity of seeker-sensitive megaworld’s approval. When we become the churches – where Bibles are left at home in exchange for fancy Starbucks drinks and kids "Many of us try to play X-box during Sunday explain away the holy School – is just one example calling upon our lives, of how the modern Church h a s w a t e re d d o w n t h e rather than Christ-life to nothing more than joining a social club. unapologetically

And when we choose a embracing it." different path, it makes them

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uncomfortable. Two college-aged young women who attended one of my conferences returned home to eagerly share with their Bible study group about how God was challenging them to live a life radically abandoned to Jesus Christ.

Instead of being excited and supportive, the other members of the group asked them never to come back – even though it was a group the two girls had started in the first place. Sadly, such stories are not uncommon.

Don’t be discouraged or derailed by the scorn of the world or the disregard of mediocre Christians. Rather, if you find yourself the target of criticism for Christ’s sake, rejoice in the realization that you are on the right track. Remember that “all who desire to live Godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution.” (2 Tim. 3:12) Every set-apart woman who has made a dent in world history walked this path.

Esther Ahn Kim was labeled an inconsiderate selfish troublemaker by her Christian co-workers when she refused to obey governmental orders to bow to the “sun god” at a Japanese shrine. Gladys Aylward was called a foolish, irresponsible risk-taker when she chose to obey God’s call to take His Word to China, and no missionary society would support her.

Sabina Wurmbrand was treated as the scum of society – by Christians and unbelievers alike – when she took a

A set-apart young woman has the courage to be different.

stand against the communist agenda to protect the name of Christ. Amy

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Carmichael was so disliked by her fellow Christian missionaries that they made a concerted effort to run her out of India. And when Vibia Perpetua decided to give her life for Christ and let her child be raised by another, her family heaped guilt and condemnation upon her.

Don’t expect a round of human applause when you choose the setapart life. But remember that in its place you will gain something far better – a standing ovation from Jesus Christ. I love the story of Stephen heroically giving his life for the sake of the Gospel. Just before he died, he saw heaven opened and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of the Father (see Acts 7:56).

Stephen’s willing sacrifice brought such delight to the heart of Christ that the King of all kings actually stood to welcome him into eternity. I don’t know about you, but that’s all the applause I could ever want or need. *

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l a u n an

Join us in Colorado!

2011 Conference

setapartgirl

with Leslie Ludy

for women and girls of all ages May 27-29, Ellerslie Campus, Windsor, CO

REGISTER NOW!

In every generation there are a few...

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Madison Kiley Photography

1 0 time top

wasters Part 4

Drama

by Leslie Ludy

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ASPIRE TO LEAD A QUIET LIFE, TO MIND YOUR OWN BUSINESS...AS WE COMMANDED YOU. I Thessalonians 4:11 When I was nine, I dreamed of

we were within five feet of each other, but

becoming a detective just like Nancy Drew. My friend Sarah and I became the

at least they looked cool), dark sunglasses (so no one would recognize us)

self-appointed mystery-solvers of our suburban neighborhood. We had all the

and a clue book in which we carefully recorded all the suspicious activity we

gear: walkie-talkies (these only worked if

observed (i.e. “Mr. Jones from next door

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got his mail today – and he acted kind

character in our unfolding drama. Every

of sneaky about it”). We were ready to take a serious bite out of crime. We

car that drove onto our street became part of the story. “I bet that lady in the

imagined being the first child-detectives to win medals for our shrewd out-

red van is a bank robber. She looks like she’s up to something.” “Yes, you’re

smarting of all the local “bad guys.”

The problem was, there were no

right! And I think that guy with the blue jacket is her secret partner in crime. I

bad guys around. At least, none that we could find. No matter how many

bet he has all the stolen money hidden somewhere in his house.”

stakeouts we set up, nothing sinister ever happened on our boring, pre-

The Mystery of the X kept us occupied for several months. It was full

dictable street. We realized that if we wanted any mystery-solving excitement,

of excitement, adventure, and peril. I cannot remember exactly how it ended

we’d have to create it for ourselves. So we launched an adventure called “The

– whether we actually solved the mystery or simply decided that we’d

Mystery of the X.” The name was inspired when we noticed a bright

never catch the bad guys after all. But what I vividly recall is how skilled Sarah

orange “X” spray-painted on the sidewalk. Sarah’s dad told us that the X

and I were at creating drama - inventing stories, making up clues, and building

was there to mark the spot where electrical wires were buried under the

an alternate reality that was so much better than real life.

street. But we knew there had to be more to the story. “I bet it’s a clue that

My ability to create drama was harmless and innocent enough at the

leads to the bad guys’ secret hide-out!”

I told Sarah. From that day on, we were

age of nine, but as I got older, my drama-making skill morphed into some-

embroiled in an exciting mission to find the criminals’ hub.

thing very different.

“I saw Tracy flirting with Matt

“I found a grocery store receipt laying on the ground!” Sarah would tell

today,” I squawked into the phone one Friday when I was fourteen. “She’s

me. “It’s a clue!”

“Yes, and I just found another

probably cheating on Nathan. We should talk to Kelly about it and see if

orange X down the street,” I would chime in. “That’s another clue!”

she knows anything.” Thus the theatrical Tracy/Matt/Nathan love tri-

Our imaginations ran wild. Every person we encountered became a

angle unfolded out of thin air.

X

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And it

took up all my time, thoughts and

great drama would emerge in which I

energy for about a month.

When that drama subsided, I was

could invest my thoughts and emotions.

When God got a hold of my life at

quick to find another one. “I’m so worried about Amber. She’s really

the age of sixteen, drama was one of the first areas He began to put His

depressed since Lisa stopped being her friend. I’m the only person she will talk

finger on. The more I studied His Word and His nature, the more I realized that

to about it. Last night she was crying on the phone with me for two hours.

my thoughts and emotions were to be centered on Him, and not on the latest

I’m going to write Lisa a letter about it.”

Who needed the Mystery of the X

gossip or romantic saga from my circle

when so much real-life drama swirled around me? It was like living in a soap opera; there were always couples breaking up, friends getting mad at each other, and interesting lovetriangles forming. All I had to do was plant myself right in the middle of them, and sometimes stir things up through strategic gossip and voila! – another

"Drama is destructive.

Not only does it eat away our precious time and energy, but it also erodes our intimacy with Christ."

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of high school friends. But this was

to build real friendships that were

easier said than done.

I had become addicted to drama;

centered upon Jesus Christ alone.

What I discovered was that a

to riding the emotional roller coaster of one saga after the next. I always felt I

Christ-centered life was far more exciting than any contrived human

needed to be in the know; always at the center of the latest issue among my

drama. Every day with Him became a great adventure, solving the beautiful

group of friends. I wanted to be the one that girls cried to on the phone, the one

mystery of His nature, His pattern, His ways. Unlike a temporary romance saga

that everyone shared their secrets with, and the one who noticed romantic flings

or neighborhood mystery, discovering His Truth knows no end, and it only gets

forming before anyone else did. I wanted to be at the center of all the

more exciting and intriguing as time goes on.

action. And if no excitement existed, I knew how to create it, just like when I was nine years old.

But God was saying, “Find your adventure and excitement in Me. Learn to live a quiet life – one that is built around Me – and mind your own business. I alone can fulfill You. Getting caught up in human drama is merely a waste of your precious time.”

So I allowed Him to retrain me. I pulled away from the drama; I shut my ears to the gossip, the latest “he said, she said” news. I began to spend my time and energy building intimacy with Christ, rather than chattering about meaningless sagas with my friends. In fact, I walked away from the shallow friendships that were based on nothing but ridiculous drama, and I learned how

Drama is a great weakness of the female race. We get caught up in the intrigue of human dynamics; we are drawn to gossip and idle chatter like a moth to a flame. Pop-culture preys upon our susceptibility to drama, enticing us to waste countless hours on shallow romance novels, ridiculous vampire sagas, and meaningless Hollywood scandals. Few modern young women are truly skilled in obeying God’s command to lead a quiet life and mind our own business.

All too often, if we can’t find a good drama to get caught up in, we’ll create one. “Did you see the way he looked at her? I bet there’s something going on between them!

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I should talk

with so-and-so about it!” or “I can’t

thoughts and emotions on human

believe she just said that. That was so rude. I’m going to stop speaking to her

drama.

Remember the movie Anne of

so she’ll know I’m mad.”

In 2 Corinthians 12:20, Paul writes

Green Gables?

Rachel Lynde – the nosey neighbor of Matthew and Marilla

about his concern over one of the churches:

– paints a vivid picture of what happens when our drama obsession isn’t curbed

“For I am afraid that when I come I may not find you as I want you to

at a young age. We grow into prying old gossips, constantly “meddling in other

be. . .I fear that there may be quarreling, jealousy, outbursts of anger, factions,

people’s affairs” (as Anne would say).

There is nothing noble or beautiful about

s l a n d e r, g o s s i p , a r r o g a n c e a n d disorder.”

this kind of womanhood. It’s pesky, annoying, intrusive, destructive and

Just think about how perfectly this describes the state of affairs in a

selfish.

Scripture warns against this kind of femininity in 1 Timothy 5:13:

typical sorority house, girls’ dorm, or clique of high school girlfriends. Young

“At the same time they also learn to be idle, as they go around from house

women are masterful at the art of drama: gossip, back-stabbing, ar-

to house; and not merely idle, but also gossips and busybodies, talking about

rogance, conflict and betrayal, interfering in other people’s lives and

things not proper to mention.”

If you are ready to exchange a

becoming consumed with emotion-filled sagas.

pattern of idle chatter, meddling, gossip and shallow human drama for the true

Drama is destructive. Not only does it eat away our precious time and

adventure of a Christ-built existence, here are some practical ways to begin:

energy, but it also erodes our intimacy with Christ. We cannot seek our King with an undivided heart while engaging in idle chatter and getting caught up in the “he said, she said” hearsay that swirls around us.

We cannot glorify Jesus Christ when we spend our words,

1. Pursue a quiet and peaceful life 1 Timothy 2:2 exhorts us to “to lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.” The phrase

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“quiet and peaceable” denotes a

should I say sin nature) to most of us;

tranquil heart and mind at rest from unnecessary fretting, worrying, and

though it can take different shapes and forms depending on personality. When

barging into other people’s business.

We are told in Hebrews 12:14 that we

Harper doesn’t get her way, she sulks and sniffs as pitiful crocodile tears run

should “make every effort to live at peace with all men,” and again in

down her chubby cheeks. Moodiness is her choice weapon for creating drama

Romans 12:18, “If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all

wherever she goes. Avy is another story.

When something happens that Avy

men.”

I have two young daughters, both

doesn’t like, she bellows and hollers and screams at the top of her lungs.

of whom are expert drama queens. One thing I’ve learned raising little girls is

Taking center stage is her method of choice for creating drama wherever she

that you don’t have to teach females how to be melodramatic. We are born

goes.

that way. Knowing how to showcase womanly drama is second nature (or

the word “drama.” Whenever we see them use their feminine play-acting

Both Harper and Avy understand

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skills in a manipulative way, like pouting

anger.” One of the best ways to lead a

or screaming, we say, “No drama!”

Those two little words are a warning

tranquil life (rather than an emotional roller coaster ride of constant drama) is

that they’d better change their attitude or reap some serious consequences.

to follow this simple yet brilliant advice.

It may take a bit of practice and a lot of

The secret to living a quiet and peaceful life is in not allowing our

supernatural grace, but it leads to a beautiful, peace-filled existence that

emotions to lead us and not overreacting when someone does some-

brings glory to our King.

thing we don’t like. Rather, we are to deliberately choose to control our reactions and submit our emotions to the Spirit of God instead of our

2. Mind your own business 1 Thessalonians 4:11 tells us to

"The secret to living a quiet & peaceful life is not allowing our emotions to lead us"

“mind our own business.” Women, for some odd reason, are acutely interested

melodramatic feminine whims and

even if we don’t know the couple very well. We want to know all about the

feelings. Whenever the temptation to react emotionally arises, simply tell yourself, “No drama!” and choose the path of peace.

Instead of pouting, sulking, lashing out, or ignoring someone who is irritating you, try praying for that person instead. Even better, say or do something kind to them. Proverbs 15:1 tells us that “a soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up

in the small details of other people’s lives. We can spend hours hearing all the particulars of so-and-so’s wedding or the birth of so-and-so’s baby. We can cry tears of joy when we hear about how a guy proposed to his future wife -

colors, clothing, height, weight, and we want to experience every emotion felt and expressed throughout the entire experience. Men are fine to just hear the basics. “So-and-so got married yesterday” is about all they really care to be told. A woman’s love for small details can be a beautiful thing; when submitted to the Spirit of God, it can add

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romance, sparkle and beauty to every-

hear all the nitty gritty of every little saga

day life. It enables us to “rejoice with those who rejoice” in a truly special and

they go through, we quickly become the “busybody in other men’s matters” as

meaningful way. It helps us be a sensitive and empathetic listener when

warned against in 1 Peter 4:15.

Using Twitter and/or excessive

someone is struggling with something.

But our love for knowing details

texting is the opposite of minding your own business. These mediums of

can also lead to trouble. It’s fine to be excited about somebody getting

communication put all the details of your life on display for others to know,

married or having a baby. And there’s nothing wrong with celebrating the

and sticks all the minutia of everyone else’s life right in your face, all day long.

wonderful things that happen in other people’s lives or being a listening ear

Facebook, email and cell phone time can also be culprits. If you allow these

when someone is hurting. Yet when we seek to know everything about

activities to take much of your time and energy, you will quickly find that most of

everyone, to find out every detail about the ups and downs of people’s lives and

your daily life consists of idle gossip, meaningless chatter, and meddling in

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other people’s affairs.

(Just remember

The same verse that exhorts us to

Rachel Lynde if you want to know the end of this story.) To mind your own

mind our own business also tells us to work with our own hands. Women in

business means to focus on your own relationship with Jesus Christ and on

particular are susceptible to wasting time on idleness. If we are not pouring

what He has called you to, instead of planting yourself in the middle of other

ourselves into valuable work for the Kingdom of God or cultivating our

people’s drama.

Being a busybody can become an

relationship with Jesus Christ, chances are we are wasting time on meaning-

addiction that sneaks into our lives under the banner of “helping people” or

less, shallow drama. God asks us to spend our time working on things of

“being a listening ear.” But soon we find that the thrill of “hearing all the

eternal value - not on silly romance novels, pointless chick flicks, or

details” is something we can’t live without, and our focus shifts away from

ridiculous reality TV. Titus 2:4 exhorts older women to

Jesus to the latest saga between this person and that person. Like any sinful

train younger women how to “love their husbands, to love their children, to be

habit pattern, this must be broken by the supernatural enabling grace of God.

discreet, chaste, homemakers, good, obedient to their own husbands, that

Ask Him to show you the practical steps in your life that you need to take in order

the word of God may not be blasphemed.” This is the opposite of the

to mind your own business. And remember – when it doubt, walk away.

Desperate Housewives lifestyle – women completely consumed with

It’s always better to spend time in the presence of your King that chatting

selfish human sagas and obsessing about who did this and who said that.

away the hours on your computer or cell phone.

Movies or TV may make such femininity look enticing, but God says it’s a path

3. Work with your own hands

that leads to death and emptiness.

Even when we are single, we are to be busy about God’s work, not eating the bread of idleness, as it says in Proverbs 31. There is a dying world all around us. Every day, thousands are

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perishing without Jesus Christ.

There

Working with our own hands –

are countless orphans, foster care children, elderly, prisoners and refugees.

pouring ourselves out for others – is a great cure for drama. When we invest

Are we being Christ’s hands and feet to them, or are we too busy watching the

our time and energy into the things that really matter, we soon find that we have

latest episode of The Bachelor or reading the latest gossip on Facebook?

all the excitement, fulfillment, and exploration we could ever want or need.

Working with our own hands pouring ourselves out for others - is a great cure for drama.

***

You don’t have to invent The Mystery of the X (or know all the latest gossip) in order to have an exciting life. The mystery of Godliness is a never-ending frontier of discovery and intrigue. I invite you to leave temporal human sagas behind and join me in the real adventure of building Christ’s Kingdom – because His drama leads to abundant life. *

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Answering the Guy Questions

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A great book for small group discussions - appropriate for younger teens yet

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Warrior-Poets

SPEAK UP

by several anonymous warrior-poets-in-the-making

copyright 2010 The Church at Ellerslie, all rights reserved

30

Every wonder what a Warrior-Poet guy is looking for in a wife? Last issue, we featured a powerful article from a Warrior Poet in the making, about what kind of woman he’s waiting for. This was so well responded to that we decided to bring a few more guys in on the discussion. We wanted to show you, our readers, that warrior-poets who are caught up in heavenly agendas and waiting for their future wives are not extinct. And though we may be keeping their identities under wraps, these are real guys living life passionately for Christ. Each of them desires that you be encouraged in your set-apartness for your future husband, but more than anything, that you set your gaze fully upon your First Love, Jesus.

Q

:

As a warrior-poet-in-the-making, what is something that you desire in your future wife?

I'm looking first and foremost for a woman who has given herself fully to Jesus. If she is radically surrendered to the Lord Jesus, I have a surety that she will also have a hunger to be a Godly wife, mother, and friend.

I want to marry a girl who is first of all completely devoted to Jesus, seeks God’s approval and not man’s, and who loves God with her whole life, seeking to bring Him glory in everything she does.

It’s never easy to wait, but in God’s timing and in God’s way I know that He will direct me and my future wife together. If I were to give one attribute that I truly admire and would appreciate my future wife to exemplify, it would be that she has a complete willingness to go wherever God leads. God moves in ways far beyond what we could ever think or imagine and having that willingness to go wherever He calls is an amazing attribute. As a Warrior-Poet-in-the-making, I know that God calls us to sometimes do things far outside our comfort zone; but there is no better place to be than in the center of His will. I pray that God will instill this complete willingness to follow His call into my future wife, so we can serve Him wholeheartedly wherever He leads.

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Mystique – as It says in 1 Peter, the “ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.” I’ve seen so many girls who are loud, boisterous, or simply far too open about their private lives. There is a great need for true feminine mystique to return in our day. Honestly, I hate it when a girl plasters her every feeling on her Facebook wall. I want my wife to be a woman who doesn’t reveal every secret to me or, more importantly, to the entire world. The meek and quiet spirit is in God’s eyes incredibly precious, and so it is for me.

I would probably say the biggest thing would be her given-ness and surrender to Christ.

Specifically in following hard after God, pressing into His truth, and being firmly fixed in it.

Also, having God’s heart for others and not being carried with every wave of mere human compassion.

I desperately desire my future wife to have a pure relationship with the Lover of her soul. I am nothing in comparison to my Jesus, and I know that what love I will have to give to my future wife is nothing compared to the love that is found in Jesus Christ. I pray that she will have a pure, untainted, passionate pursuit of loving her Savior, and that it will be without adulteration, free from the world and the wiles of the enemy. I know that if she loves the Redeemer with her whole heart, then she will be pure in our relationship. This is what I am looking and waiting for - a woman who has given her heart away to the only One worthy to have it.

One thing I want in a wife is that she would have a deep growl of God within, to inspire her man to stand for Truth, to never compromise - even in the toughest times. She would encourage me to take a firm stand even if it costs my very life, or even hers. She would count Christ so worthy of our lives that she wouldn’t only be willing for our marriage and family to be lost for the sake of Christ, but she would have a burning passion to point me toward that end, if we should face such a situation. I would want her to have such a deep love of Christ that she would rejoice in the opportunity to be a part of a marriage and family that is counted worthy to suffer for Christ.

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My biggest desire in a future wife is a passionate obsession for Jesus. If Jesus is her "one thing" then I know she will give all to go after Him. He will be the big deal, not me. If Jesus is her sole focus, she will have a desire for Jesus to take her life and spill it out on this world.

Everything about her will radiate the Person and presence of Jesus. And for a warrior-poet, that is truly enchanting.

Q

:

What woman from Christian history stands out to you as a picture of Christ-built femininity and why?

Elisabeth Elliot has been a great example. She sought after God first and foremost, waiting for God’s timing in her relationship with Jim Elliot. After they were married and started making contact with the Waodoni tribe, and after Jim had been killed, she did not hold her life and the life of her daughter as too precious to be spent for the cause of the Gospel.

Sabina Wurmbrand. She spoke the truth to her husband, prodding him to stand for Christ and not be a coward regardless of the cost. She also encouraged their son to turn to Jesus and hold on to Him, while she herself was in prison. She had the feminine strength of God-given grit to remain faithful, even in the toughest times.

This to me is a beautiful picture of Godly femininity - remaining faithful to Jesus Christ in devastating times, a great encouragement to her husband and children, and being a statement of Christ to the powers that be.

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From recent Christian history I would choose Leslie Ludy and Annie Wesche.

These two women have been a picture of Godly femininity - truly the greatest living expressions I have ever encountered. They are completely focused on Jesus, and they both have that combination Leslie often uses to describe femininity - the elegance of Audrey Hepburn with the poured-out life of Amy Carmichael. I count it amongst my greatest honors to see such radiant expressions of femininity in today's world.

From history past, there are so many great woman that stand out as pictures of Christ-built femininity: Amy Carmichael, Biddy Chambers, Fanny Crosby, Jackie Pullinger, Vibia Perpetua, Elisabeth Elliot, Catherine Booth, Corrie Ten Boom, Sabina Wurmbrand, and Gladys Aylward. But I honestly cannot narrow my decision down to a single individual. I am encouraged, captivated, and challenged by each of these women. One thing that stands out in each of their lives is their selfless abandon to Jesus. Each were willing to give up everything they had, even their lives, to see Jesus lifted high and His Name made much of. Many were hidden and never wanted to be known. Several were willing to be single all their lives if it meant Jesus could use them all the more. Each were radical and all were absolutely surrendered to their true Love, Jesus. These are the women whom my mind thinks of when I ponder being married. Though I am not worthy of such a Christ-built lady, and I myself am only in the beginning stages of becoming a heroic warrior-poet, these women have the very substance of the life I long to serve and fight for in my future wife.

I have recently read about Gladys Aylward in The Little Woman. This English woman had quite the adventurous life! Yet, through it all, her dependency was always upon the Lord. She was small, yet strong; bold, yet tender; broken, yet ever pressing onward. It just goes to show that it doesn’t matter what the vessel looks like, so long as she is willing, she shall be used.

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I think I would say Elisabeth Elliot because she was faithful to God's calling and returned to the very people who killed her husband to share Christ with them. She did not hate them for killing her husband, but loved them enough to risk her own life in order to give them Jesus. That’s admirable.

Sarah Edwards was an incredible portrait of poured-out femininity. Here is what Jonathan Edwards (her husband) said about her: They say there is a young lady in New Haven who is loved of that Great Being, who made and rules the world, and that there are certain seasons in which this Great Being, in some way or other invisible, comes to her and fills her mind with exceeding sweet delight; and that she hardly cares for anything, except to meditate on Him. . . . You could not persuade her to do any thing wrong or sinful, if you would give her all the world, lest she should offend this Great Being. She is of a wonderful sweetness, calmness, and universal benevolence of mind; especially after this Great God has manifested Himself to her mind. She will sometimes go about from place to place, singing sweetly; and seems to be always full of joy and pleasure. . . She loves to be alone, walking in the fields and groves, and seems to have some one invisible always conversing with her. That's the sort of woman I'd desire to marry!

Q

:

What would you say to encourage set-apart young women as they wait for a Christ-built warrior-poet?

To all the set-apart young women out there, I encourage you to wait upon the Lord.

He is preparing brave warrior-poets for set-apart girls like yourselves, but He must do a preparing work in each before a great marriage can shine forth. During this special season of singleness, focus on Christ wholeheartedly and the rest will come into place. When God decides you’re ready for a love story written by Him, there will be beauty beyond words. Until then, stay focused on Christ and follow His leading.

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Look to the perfect warrior-poet! Cast all your cares on Him who saved your soul.

Wait not on man, but on God. Do not be downcast at the wait that you may have to endure, but know that your warrior-poet is being trained by the very hands of Jesus. The same hands that were pierced are the same hands guiding the steps of your future warrior-poet. The wait is worth it. Know that the same set-apart life that you are living is being sought and lived by men of God also.

Life with Christ is an adventure; there is no doubt about that. However, it may not be the adventure you have imagined or longed for. Many women in the past thought they had the rest of the script figured out, only to find a sharp about-face turn on the next page. Let God lead you in all things. If you trust Him, you will find joy and life abundant, no matter where He takes you. He is your Shepherd; why should you want?

Do not focus on the warrior-poet, but rather upon THE Warrior-Poet (Jesus). Make Him the big deal of your life. Get away from the nonsense of looking for the "right guy" and lose yourself in Jesus. It is when you are completely obsessed, lost in, consumed with Him, that He will orchestrate, in His perfect timing, an encounter with a true warrior poet. I know we warrior-poets are seen as a rare treasure, but so is a true Christ-built woman of God. I am not interested in a "religious" girl, not even one who is radical - I want a woman of God who is grounded in the Word, who delights in Jesus alone, who cares not what the world thinks, dresses and behaves with the highest standard of modesty, dignity, and honor. It is far more appealing, enchanting, and romantic to find a Godly woman who is lost in Jesus than one who is worried about finding the right guy to marry. But remember, our precious Jesus IS faithful, good, and overflowing with love. Trust Him.

Make Christ your highest priority. Do not waste your time on temporal things that don’t really matter. Our lives are too short and the cause of Christ too grand to waste time on trivial matters. Do not put off serving God now because you think you are too young, too busy, or too unprepared. Make it your goal to give yourself to His serve now, and not just later.

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Spend your years of singleness lavishly upon Christ. You can do things right now as a young single woman that a married woman with children just CAN'T do. Study the Word of God voraciously. Give yourself in service to your King. Your future husband will love the virtues that result from such disciplines!

I would like to encourage all set-apart young women to seek first His Kingdom and His righteousness. Don't be anxious, but wait upon the Lord. His timing is always perfect.

God is building men with Christ’s steel as their strength. He is creating men to be what they were meant to be. We are all a work in progress, so wait for God’s perfect timing and don’t give in to fear and try to progress God’s work for Him. He makes all things beautiful in His time.

Pray that God would build your future man into a man with the grit and guts of God living inside of him. Practice being a strong encourager to your father and brothers, or even the men that God has placed in your life, if you don’t have a father or brothers to practice on. Remember, you are practicing for the Kingdom of heaven, so do this in all purity toward the men in your life and not to get their attention.

There’s just something powerful and beautiful about this, and it does something for the courage of a man when a Godly woman encourages him on toward a deeper walk in Christ! Allow God to do a deeper work in your own life and create within you all He would have you to be. Live a life surrendered to Christ and His will, in all things bearing the cross that He has called you to bear, and you will live a life with no regrets!

ANONYMOUS & on purpose.

Since our last anonymous article we’ve had a few attempts to inquire about the identity of our male contributors. I’m afraid we’ll be keeping the authors under-wraps and for a very good reason. A glimpse of a single warrior-poet is enough to send a single set-apart young lady into distraction. So, rather than reveal our ‘sources’ for guy thoughts, we encourage you to keep your gaze set upon the Author of romance and not on the author of these articles.

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Recon

Discovering the Secret to Beautiful Friendships

by Mandy Saeler Copyright 2011 The Church at Ellerslie. Â All rights reserved. Â No material from this website may be copied, reproduced, or distributed without express written permission from The Church at Ellerslie.

S ciliation And the Lord make you to increase and abound in love one toward another, and toward all men, even as we do toward you…

I Thessalonians 3:12

was so undesirable about me. My

“I can’t believe they treated me that way!”

I vented to my parents on the fifteen-

heart began to grow hard with resentment.

The tension was continually

growing and I didn’t understand why. I had so quickly become close with the girls at my church, and now I felt isolated and rejected.

Where there used to

minute car ride home from church. One by

be friendly exchanges between us, an icy

one, I spewed out all the evening’s offenses,

curtain now hung. My fragile heart felt

my words dripping with frustration and pain.

shattered, and insecurity seemed to breed

My church youth group’s once fun and

upon the broken pieces.

easy-going atmosphere had turned into a

Though I was weighed down by

tense and hurtful one. Week after week, and

loneliness and strain whenever I attended

event after event, I felt the sting of exclusion.

church, God was not far from me. It was in

All too often circles would form in con-

these times of hardship that the Lord drew

versation and I found myself on the outside.

me to seek His face. It was through the

As I gathered the nerve to approach, I would

feelings of pain and rejection that God drew

remain standing on the outside, un-ac-

me into His Word and His presence.

knowledged.

love, He released me from the popularity rat

At other times, groups would

meet to hang out and I was left uninvited.

In His

race and beckoned me to the feet of Jesus.

Wounded and confused, I wondered what

As I learned to build my life around Jesus Christ, He gently opened my heart to

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His plan for reconciliation. Instead of pointing

****

an accusing finger at my friends, I began to

As young women, most of us have

examine my own life. God opened my eyes

experienced the hurt of rejection in one way

to see that the disunity that had formed in my

or another throughout our lives.

friendships at church was a result of my own

loneliness that results can feel overwhelming.

inward-focused, self-consumed attitude.

And when the hurt comes from those that are

The

Always faithful, God provided the

closest to us, we often don’t understand why.

opportunity for me to reconcile with my

Our fleshly feminine tendency is to let

friends.

We met together to pray and talk

our minds go rampant with stray thoughts

through our offenses. We cried together, dealt

and vain imaginings. We catch a look or an

with our individual hurts and exchanged

attitude of another girl and mentally write a

humble apologies for our sins against one

novel about what was really meant by the

another.

Wrongs were made right, and our

look. An unbridled mind, coupled with self-

friendships were mended. The tension melted

pity, is precisely what I had given place to in

away and peace rose up in my heart.

my life and had allowed to determine my

No

longer was I wallowing in self-pity and

actions.

As a result of my inward-focused

insecurity. As God turned my focus outward,

trance, I caused a lot of damage to my heart

I finally experienced the beautiful, lasting

and also to my girlfriends who I treated in

friendships I’d been longing for.

fleshly and hurtful ways.

S

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Self-focus had removed my eyes from

When I think about the deep hurt that

the needs and feelings of others and from

my selfishness caused my girlfriends during

the reality that I had hurt the ones who I loved. I had been so consumed with how I was feeling that I became blinded to the intense pain that I was inflicting on them.

Through the ashes of my

“I am truly better because of His always faithful refining work...”

sin and struggle, God has matured me and taught me how to rightly

that painful time in my life, my heart aches.

handle my feelings and experiences. To this

However, as I meditate upon my God’s

day, I am continually learning that in any and

healing, love and forgiveness, the ache

every situation, the solution is always the

becomes sweet and even cherished. I have

same and surprisingly simple: RUN to Jesus!

watched in delight as the Lord has

God is teaching me to ruthlessly take every

continued to beautify this story of His faithful

thought captive, continually surrender all to

redemption among my sisters in Christ in the

Jesus and joyfully turn outward in His love.

years since those painful youth group days.

Some of the practical ways that God

Even now, though some of us have moved

is teaching me to turn upward and outward

away, we love to reconnect with each other

are:

on our visits home to catch up and cherish

1. Reciting Truth in my heart

the friendship that God has restored and

2. Meditating upon the purchase of the

made beautiful. Truly, His ways are perfect.

Cross 3. Praying that God would open my eyes to see the needs around me.

My boast is in my Jesus and in His restoration, healing and birthing of new life to all that His brilliant light and love shine upon. Knowing that I am truly better

I’ve found that writing encouraging

because of His always faithful refining work,

notes and finding small ways to bless others

I stand with confidence in the JOY and LIFE

are simple ways to bring joy to the people

of my Savior! *

God has placed in my life.

…to the end He may stablish your hearts unblameable in holiness before God, even our Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all His saints.

I Thessalonians 3:13 Copyright 2011 The Church at Ellerslie. All rights reserved.

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(27) Sacred Decorum Many of us have seen pastors or Christian authors rely upon movies (rather than God’s Word) to illustrate their point. Because Hollywood can so poignantly and artistically capture human angst and emotion, it is all too easy to “spiritualize” movies, blending ungodly messages in with our pursuit of Godly Truth. But God’s Truth will not be discovered through profane images, no matter how profound Hollywood’s messages might seem.

Remember that cult leader who gave his followers Kool Aid to drink, and they all died? Kool Aid by itself is harmless enough. It’s a sweet, refreshing beverage that can be safely enjoyed even by kids. But when Kool Aid is mixed with poison, it changes from a harmless beverage into a deadly toxin. In the same way, when Truth is mingled with the poisonous ideas of Hollywood, it brings about death, not life.

Paul writes, “For what fellowship has righteousness with lawlessness? And what communion has light with darkness? And what accord has Christ with Belial?

Or what part has a believer with an unbeliever? And what agreement has the temple of God with idols?” (2 Cor. 6:14b-16a) Pretending that God showcases His Truth or His nature through ungodly channels is just a clever excuse for participating in worldly allurements.

Scripture makes it very clear that...

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Running fo r HIS K in gdom

by Marlene de Vente Copyright 2011 The Church at Ellerslie. Â All rights reserved. Â No material from this website may be copied, reproduced, or distributed without express written permission from The Church at Ellerslie.

Psalm 63 O God, thou

o,

[art] my God ; early will I thirsteth for th seek thee: my s ee, my flesh lon oul g e th f o r th ee in a dry and land, where no thirsty water is; To s ee thy power an d thy glory, so I have seen th [as] ee in the sanctu a r y.. Because lovingkindness thy [is] better than life, my lips sh all praise thee.

it was time to start memorizing Scripture. But where to start? A psalm would be good, I thought.

Well, which one? Suddenly I remembered my birthday card - someone had written Psalm 63 next to her name. So I looked it up in my Bible and checked the number of verses. Eleven. Sure, that’s reasonable for a beginner-Scripture-memorizer. So I started out.

“O God, Thou art my God”.

Yes, the God of all the universe - He was my God. I could say this with all my heart.

Mmm...I never thought memorizing would be so easy. OK, go on. “early will I seek Thee” “Yes LORD, I seek You! I seek Your face every day!

I want to know You more and more.”

Then God stopped me. “Did you see that first word?”

“Uh, early?”

“Yep. Early. That means... early.”

“Oh no” I thought. What did I get myself into?

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When we surrender all to God and tell

miserable and needed to muster up all my

Him that He can do with our lives whatever He wants to, He is not slow to answer. He is quick to show us the things He wants to control. And one of the first things He asks for is...yep...our sleep. Gulp. “OK, LORD, I

self-control not to eat anything. But the LORD was training me how to fight this battle. When I felt the hunger pangs in my stomach, He taught me to pray that He would satisfy me with His hidden manna.

have said I would give up everything - and that includes sleep.”

Multiple times He has satisfied me so much with spiritual things that I wasn’t even hungry in the natural! He also taught me how to leverage it against the enemy and pray that my church would be as hungry and

Then God makes known the time He wants us to get up, and it seems totally extreme. Impossible. But with all grit we set our alarm for the dreaded hour and go to bed. The time to wake up comes - and we find out that our flesh is very much alive and screaming at the top of its voice!

I remember at first it really seemed impossible to get out of bed at such a ridiculous time - but I wouldn’t stop trying.

“Early WILL I seek Thee” became a promise to me, a battle shout. Before I went to bed at night I would pray for the next morning’s wake-up call. I would pray “In the morning, when I rise - give me Jesus. Let my first thought be Him, so that I would want to get out of bed.” And God wrought a great victory in my life!

OK, back to Psalm 63.

“My soul thirsteth for Thee, my flesh longeth for Thee, in a dry and thirsty land, where no water is...”

Next thing on the list was the exercise of fasting. Again - impossible. How my flesh ached and screamed in the beginning! I was

thirsty for Him as I was for food and drink right then.

If  ha Go  u, H ca tak ou bodie, ou mind, ou energy ou disciplin, an mak  Nam o Himself throug .

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These are just two examples of the life that is called “the impossible life!” And that’s exactly what it is impossible. For humans yes - but not for God. For Psalm 63 goes on saying: “To see Thy power and Thy glory.” We cannot pull off this impossible life, and He knows it. But He also knows that He can pull it off IN our lives - that we will see His power and glory. If we have God in us, He can take our bodies, our minds, our energy, our will-power, our intellect, our discipline and make a Name for Himself through us. A Name of glory and power. A Name of strength and majesty. A Name of grandeur and reverence.

Therefore, embrace the challenges! It’s a stage for His power and glory in your life! Say, “O God, Thou art my God” and hit the race

An hroughou h daily rac, ru  Go i

running. Cry out, “Let me see Thy power and glory!” And throughout the daily race, run to God first - seek His face early when the flesh is screaming for attention. Keep running, keep longing for His power to enable you to put one foot in front of the other and soon you will burst forth with shouts of victory! Even those around you will stand in awe at His great works, and will join the heavenly race with the new song on their lips - the magnificent anthem of the spiritual athletes, running for the Kingdom of God. *

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I am UNASHAMED of the GOSPEL of Christ Jesus.

Romans 1:16 Leslie says...

"Girls, if you want to be stirred and inspired toward the majesty and wonder of the Gospel, don't miss this powerful, amazing music by Steve Rosen and epic, unforgettable short film by Ellerslie Mission Society!"

Call to Glory SOUNDTRACK ALBUM FROM STEVE ROSEN

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the GOSPEL presented by

Ellerslie Mission Society

Ellerslie Short Film watch online now!

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Daddy’s H a n ds

Sitting beneath a tree beside the lovely lake across the street from my house, I was drinking in the first hints of spring warmth with a book written by a great Christian of yesteryear.

After about a half hour of sun-soaked peace, I was distracted by the distant sound of kiddo laughter. This being one of my favorite sounds, I looked up from my book to find its source.

The sweet giggles were bubbling out of a tiny girl across the lake with her parents. Dressed head to toe in pink, she danced around excitedly by the water’s edge. It didn’t take long to discover the reason for her thrill. Her daddy was unwinding the string of a butterfly-shaped kite. With a fairly strong breeze and brilliant sunshine, it was the perfect day for kite flying.

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by Amy Meyers

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The adorable little girl squealed in utter delight as her daddy got the kite up and flying. She studied her daddy’s movements, watching as he expertly made the kite dip down and back up again in the wind. After a few moments of observation, the little girl was ready to give this kite flying thing a try.

Seeing her struggles, her dad placed her hands on the spool then covered them in his own. Together they were able to make the kite stay in the air and even do a few tricks with it. The girl was thrilled at her accomplishment. But the only reason for her success was her daddy’s strong hands wrapped around hers, guiding her and giving her the stability and coordination needed to pull off the task she could not perform by herself.

A few minutes later, the little girl had released the kite into her daddy’s capable hands and was sitting beside the water content to just watch. The wind became very sporadic and the kite fell from the sky a number of times. This terrible sight raised the little girl to her feet. Something was going wrong with her kite and she needed to fix it.

She marched her little pink body over to her daddy as he stooped down to give her the spool of string he held. But as he began to loosen his grip, the kite slipped through his daughter’s fingers. She was not strong enough to control the kite against the fierce wind. No matter what she tried, despite her excitement and determination, she was unable to do the job on her own.

She stood with her hands on her little hips, watching her daddy struggle to get the kite back in the air. After a few

despite her excitement and determination, she was unable to do the job on her own.

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attempts, it was stable and flying strong again and the little girl began to shout, “We did it! It’s flying!” In actuality the girl had done nothing to effect the successful flight of the kite, but since her daddy was doing it she felt a part of the triumph.

I saw myself in that little girl. She was so eager for the action, to see the kite flying, and she so desperately wanted to have her

clasp my hands in His. When He steadies and supports my hands through the strength of His own, I am able to successfully do everything necessary to raise the banner.

But on my own, every effort I make is in vain.

I simply don’t have what is needed to perform.

If the little girl had pulled away from her daddy when he tried to help her, she would not have seen her kite fly. In fact, she probably would have lost her kite altogether in the strong wind. Instead, she accepted his help and let him guide her little hands and provide the strength she lacked.

I am so blessed to have my father god, who will stoop down and clasp my hands in his.

God has everything we need to fly our kite, all the skill and ability to live the Christ-life and to be a brilliant display of His glory.

However, if we do not accept His

hands on it. I deeply desire to do things for God, to perform for Him so people might see His beauty flying in the sky like a butterfly kite. But m y h a n d s a re u n c o ordinated, unable to do what must be done to lift high the name of Jesus. I need my Daddy.

Like that little girl, I am so blessed to have a Daddy, my Father God, who will stoop down and

my hands

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help and surrender our hands into His, we will only meet with failure. Our kite will fall time and time again and our lives will not be flying the banner of Jesus strong and clear for the world to see.

Later in the afternoon, the little girl once again attempted to fly the kite on her own. She tried running around with it and tossing it into the air, anything she could think of to get it off the ground, but her every effort failed. Time after time she desperately tried to muster up the ability to get it flying.

She knew how it was done, as she had seen her daddy do it many times - so she should be able to do it without his help now, right?

Wrong. No matter how hard she tried, she could not make that little butterfly kite catch the wind.

How often have I tried to pull away from God after He has performed through me?

Thank you God for all Your help, but I think I can take it from here. This attitude is a recipe for guaranteed failure.

As soon as the little girl brought the kite back to her daddy and asked for his help, the kite was up and flying in seconds. She knew who had the ability, but she had to humble herself, admit defeat, and ask her daddy to do what she could not. He patiently took the string and the kite and w i t h o n e g re a t t o s s t h e butterfly was soaring high above the lake.

In order for our lives to fly the banner of Jesus Christ and keep it flying strong and clear, not just today, but every day for the rest of our lives, our hands must remain safely nestled between God’s. We are commanded as Christians to fly our kite with perfection, never letting it fall to the ground or get stuck in a tree, but we simply can’t do it. Our human hands do not possess what is needed. Our Daddy is the only One who has the ability to pull off the great task that is the Christian life. And He is willing to wrap His hands around ours and give us the strength we need, but we must go to Him, present our fallen kite, and ask for His help. *

in His hands

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Sisters common AMELIA ARNOLD Events

MARLENE DE VENTE Design

AMY MEYERS Editorial

TESSA HERSHBERGER Editorial

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of the Life m a e t w e n e h t meet terns here @ of in girl!

t r a p a set

MANDY SAELER Administrative

LAUREN TORRES Photography

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SISTER OF THE COMMON LIFE: Amy Meyers FROM: Illinois AGE: 21 SIBLINGS: the youngest of 3 FAVORITE FLOWER: long-stemmed white dendrobium orchids COZY DRINK OF CHOICE: black chai tea WHAT INSPIRES YOU CREATIVELY: music and seeing the artistry of others

listening to beautiful worship

SIGNIFICANT LIFE VERSE: I Thessalonians 5:24 “Faithful is He that calleth you, who also will do it.”

Amy Meyers . EDITORIAL .

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Q: Amy, when did you decide to live a set-apart life for Jesus?

I heard the gentle call to “come away” when I was seventeen years old and was completely devastated over a failed relationship. Growing up in a Christian home, God had always been a part of my life, but He certainly was not my entire life - that is precisely what He was after. During that relationship, I felt torn between wanting to live a “normal” teenage life, but at the same time I was unsatisfied with it and couldn’t figure out why.

When the relationship ended, God came to me in my brokenness and promised me that He had more for my life than what I was living. He said He had perfect peace, true love, and joy unspeakable - and He wanted to give them all to me. I read Authentic Beauty and knew without a doubt that the set-apart life was exactly what God had in mind for me. He didn’t just want to be stuck into my life but He wanted to become my life entirely, to truly be my All in all. It was a process of purging my life of all that was not of God and allowing Him to reshape every area of my existence. It is still a daily decision to surrender to His will for my life, but He is so faithful to take me ever deeper in the rich depths of all He is. Every day with Jesus truly is sweeter than the day before!

Q: In the busyness of life, how do you cultivate your spiritual growth and intimacy with Christ?

My morning time with the Lord is probably my most precious time during the day. As John Bunyan said, “He who runs from God in the morning will scarcely find Him the rest of the day.” I have found that to be so true in my life. If I do not go straight to Jesus the moment my eyes open in the morning, I find myself feeling “off” for the rest of the day. Starting my day with Jesus is the best way to feel connected to Him in that moment-by-moment communion throughout the day. To protect these sacred morning hours, I rise early to give ample time to the Lord. If I have an earlier than normal appointment, I will purposefully wake up even earlier so I do not rob from my time with Jesus.

Another thing I have found very helpful is to memorize scripture. When the Word is hidden in my heart, I am able to pull a verse from my memory and

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think on it during the day. When I’m in the car, I focus my mind and either pray, recite scripture, or sing songs of praise to my Jesus. Those little pockets of time throughout the day whether I am getting ready for the day, standing in line, stuck in traffic, or waiting for a meeting to begin, I purpose to keep my mind on Jesus, thinking on those precious promises in scripture or silently praying and thanking Him for all He has done. But all of those little moments flow out of my block of time set aside for Jesus first thing in the morning.

Those hours truly are my fuel for the rest of the day.

Q: What is something you desire this generation of young women to know?

Every women must know how much her Lord and King desires her and how His heart is ravished by the beauty of her heart. When we want more of Him so badly, we forget that He returns the sentiment. Jesus doesn’t just want to wash us clean and leave us on our own all shiny and white. He passionately longs for us to be near to Him. We were made by Him for His pleasure and He takes great delight in every single one of His precious daughters.

The Bible says that Jesus came “to seek and to save that which was lost” (Luke 19:10). The word “seek” in the Greek actually means “desire.”

Jesus so desired us that He came to this earth to search us out and gain us for Himself. We do not need to beg Jesus to come near to us and be in close communion with us - it’s His great passion! He is right there, so near, waiting for us to draw near to Him and take hold of His outstretched hand. What closeness and intimacy flows from such a love!

Q: Other than your passion for Set Apart Femininity, what is another passion God has placed on your heart?

For many years I have had a heart for the deaf, but in the past year God has fanned those embers into a great flame within me. He has awakened me to the need around the world and the millions of deaf people, particularly children, in foreign countries who have never even been told they have a name because no language has been made available to them. But these people need so much more than language - they need Jesus!

God has so faithfully been teaching me what the Gospel truly is in full and how to share the victory I have found with others. It is my deepest desire

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for all to know the freedom and unspeakable joy found in Christ. God wants all deaf people for Himself and if they can’t hear someone preach the Good News, it must be given to them in a way they can understand. I do know some Sign Language already, but I hope to continue to grow in my vocabulary and fluency so I will have all of the practical and spiritual equipment needed to go wherever God might send me to reach these people who are so close to His heart. *

these are a few of my favorite things: Antique books Telling stories of God’s faithfulness and love Being surrounded by pretty things One-on-one conversations over tea Powerful quotes from great Christians Flowering trees as they are just beginning to bud Blueberry muffins Handwritten notes from sweet friends Discovering new layers of truth in God’s Word Being an Auntie Fresh flowers on my table Conversations in Sign Language Read Amy’s articles on pages 56 & 92

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Let There Be Light Photography

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“Lord, I give up my own plans and purposes, all my own desires and hopes, and accept Thy will for my life. I give myself, my life, my all utterly to Thee to be Thine forever. Fill me and seal me with Thy Holy Spirit. Use me as Thou wilt, send me where Thou wilt, work out Thy whole will in my life at any cost, now and forever.”

- Betty Scott Stam

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Mandy Saeler . ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORT. SISTER OF THE COMMON LIFE: Mandy Saeler FROM: Pennsylvania AGE: 19 SIBLINGS: the youngest of 3 FAVORITE FLOWER: calla lillies COZY DRINK OF CHOICE: silky black coffee WHAT INSPIRES YOU CREATIVELY: the Creator Himself SIGNIFICANT LIFE VERSE: Galatians 2:20 “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, loved me, All and gave himself for me.”

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Q: Mandy, when did you decide to live a set-apart life for Jesus?

Living the set-apart life first sparked within my soul when I was 14.

Though I had been a “Christian” from the time I was young, I was living my life for my own glory, attempting to pin Jesus onto my life as a boutonniere.

Through a series of events, I found myself in a Christian book store with a magnetic book called Authentic Beauty resolutely grasped in my hands.

God used this book to spark dramatic change my life, marking the beginning of my set-apart walk with the Lord. There was a turning from sin and a true turning to Jesus for the first time. Oh, how I rejoice in my Jesus’ jealous love for me, that He bowed the heavens and came down on my behalf! For the entirety of my life, Jesus’ hand of mercy has been upon me as He has patiently pursued me!

Still hungry and knowing that there was more, nearly three years ago, God led me to read Set Apart Femininity. I devoured this book and yet again God worked deeper, more radical changes in my life.

As I reflect upon the Lord’s work in my life, I am humbled and overwhelmed with awe and gratitude.

Living a set-apart life with Jesus has been a progressive journey over the past five and a half years that has been beautifully intensified throughout my season at Ellerslie Leadership Training. God has stirred a deeper love and passion for Jesus Christ beyond what I ever knew. The Love of God has given me Life and Life in Christ is full of joy! Take my life and let it be, consecrated Lord to Thee! He is worthy of ALL! Q: Through choosing to walk set-apart unto Christ, what has one of the challenges been and how have you overcome it?

Oh there are challenges, but so sweet is the victory that Jesus brings moment-by-moment! One of the challenges I have faced is living set-apart, yet living ‘normally’ in my interactions and relationships with my family and friends. At the end of the day, the challenge boils down to dependence upon

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Christ to love and live, for it must be His love and life that flow through me.

The only way to rise above our challenges is Jesus Christ. He is the sole solution. Practicing the discipline of dependence upon my God for a continual flow of His grace gives me sufficiency for each day. Jesus must be the One who leads the conversations that I have, the emails and letters that I write and all else.

Whether those in my life are following hard after Jesus, living in mediocrity or not walking with Him at all, I am called to depend upon Him and LOVE. Though I have not handled every situation with perfection, I have seen the Lord grow my dependence, stretch my love-capacity and yearn for Jesus in each of their lives.

One of Amy Carmichael’s poems has encouraged me and pressed me forward in truly loving others with the love of Christ.

The secret is dependence upon God’s Spirit to live in us and love through us.

Love through me, love of God, Make me like thy clear air, through which, Unhindered colors pass As though it were not there.

Powers of the Love of God, Depths of the Heart Divine, Oh Love that faileth not, break forth And flood this world of Thine.

Q: In the busyness of life, how do you cultivate your spiritual growth and intimacy with Christ?

1. WALKING WITH JESUS

Stealing away for a walk with Jesus around Windsor Lake is such a treat! As I escape with Jesus, there is no question, He is with me, the warmth of His Presence surrounds me. God has been challenging me forth to deeper devotion, in truly living a life of faith. All of our days, at every moment, we are to walk and live out of devotion to our Jesus. The reality of the Gospel, my position in Him and His Presence abiding in me are to be ever-present, clear

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realities to my soul. Slipping away with Jesus simply engrains more deeply the delight of the Gospel!

2. WAITING ON JESUS

The Lord has been challenging me in my morning dates with Him to wait upon Him. To wait for His breath in my chest, equipping me with His grace for each day. As Andrew Murray wrote, “Take time. Give God time to reveal Himself to you. Give yourself time to be silent and quiet before Him, waiting to receive, through the Spirit, the assurance of His Presence with you, His power working in you.”

3. HALLMARKED SCRIPTURE

For the past few weeks, I have begun the practice of asking the Lord each morning for a hallmarked Scripture for my day. Waiting for Him to show me my verse for the day starts my morning with a sparkle and a specific Word from God to me! It has been exciting to see how these verses align with and prepare me for the day!

4. JOURNALLING

Jim Elliot described his notebooks as “museums of pressed flowers, pick with Him, where He is leading me to ‘feed among the lilies’.” My desire is that my journals would be happy remembrances of God’s working in my life and detailed records of my daily walk and love with Jesus.

Q: What is something you desire this generation of young women to know?

Oh, that you might intimately know the abundant, marvelous, extravagant LOVE of God! Not mere head-knowledge or reciting John 3:16 from memory, but to truly know and comprehend to the depths of your soul the love of God towards you as an individual!

My life has been utterly transformed by the Gospel of Love. As I have begun to truly know the love of God, I have beheld a glimmer of His glory, a vision of the richest treasure, and the exceeding greatness of our God. Though I have only begun to taste, His love has whisked through my life with spectacular power.

Pondering of the love of Christ, Amy Carmichael wrote, “What do we comprehend, what do we know? Confounded and abased, we enter into the

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Rock and hide us in the dust before the glory of the Majesty of love- the love whose symbol is the cross.” It is when we see our Savior upon the cross, behold the cost and by faith, grapple with the full purchase, that our lives are forever transformed.

My desire is that each and every young woman of this generation would begin to truly know the love of Christ, reckoning Christ’s love-purchase upon the cross, thereby living in the daily reality of His amazing sacrifice, being radically given, living love-filled lives! True, abundant life begins as we grasp the love of our God!

My heart full of awe and wonder, I have tasted the beginnings of the endless, unfailing supply of His love…might you taste evermore deeply!

“That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fullness of God.” (Eph. 3.17-19) *

these are a few of my favorite things:

walks with Jesus the beach (sigh) dad-hugs polka dots being called 'mandy joy' sunshine and summertime coffee pancakes bargains my adorably quirky cat, calvin Keith Green journaling...with inky pens!

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Read Mandy’s article on page 40

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Let There Be Light Photography

If your heart takes more pleasure in reading novels, or watching TV, or going to the movies, or talking to friends, rather than just sitting alone with God and embracing Him, sharing His cares and His burdens, weeping and rejoicing with Him, then how are you going to handle forever and ever in His presence...? You'd be bored to tears in heaven, if you're not ecstatic about God now!

-Keith Green

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tessa hershberger . EDITORIAL .

SISTER OF THE COMMON LIFE: Tessa Hershberger FROM: Ohio AGE: 24 SIBLINGS: the middle of three girls FAVORITE SMELL: fresh lilacs in June COZY DRINK OF CHOICE: black coffee WHAT INSPIRES YOU CREATIVELY: walking around in flea markets and being in different cultures SIGNIFICANT LIFE VERSE: Psalm 30:11-12 “Thou hast turned for me my mourning into dancing: thou hast put off my sackcloth, and girded me with gladness; To the end that my glory may sing praise to thee, and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give thanks unto thee for ever.”

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Q: Tessa, when did you decide to live a set-apart life for Jesus?

During my Junior year of high school, God had brought me to the place where I was ready and ripe to respond to the call to live the set-apart life. It was that year that I first read Authentic Beauty, and it was as though I had finally gotten my hands on the message I so desperately needed and wanted to hear, written in a way that resonated with the very depths of my heart. For most of my teenage years up to that point, I had wrestled between the desire for worldly popularity and the strong conviction that God wanted me to raise the bar in my Christianity. When I read Leslie's message, I knew without a doubt that it was the standard God was calling me to and for me to live anything less than a set-apart life would be compromise. It was that year that I began seeking God on a more intense level and making practical changes in my daily lifestyle. That's when it started, but God still continues to faithfully reveal deeper levels of the set-apart life that He wants me to cultivate. There is always another step to be taken!

Q: Through choosing to walk set-apart unto Christ, what has one of the challenges been and how have you overcome it?

One of the challenges I have come across is remembering that it is not my job to change others around me or make them conform to my convictions and standards - it has to be the work of Jesus Christ in a person’s heart and mind. When I read Set Apart Femininity a few years ago, my life was changed all over again. I was so excited about the book and started giving copies to my friends and telling them how God had challenged me to walk it out practically. I wanted them to respond with the same excitement and make all the same changes. God had to show me that, although He can use me to speak truth into others’ lives and be an example, I need to let Him be responsible for the change of heart and allow Him to do it in His own time and way. He has also shown me that the most powerful way I can have an influence on another person’s life is by giving myself to persistent prayer for that person. I take comfort in the fact that God is completely sovereign over every heart and fully capable of revealing Himself in whatever way He needs to. He has already proven this to me in a mighty way this year, and it presses me on to continue praying with great expectancy!

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Q: What is one of your favorite attributes of Christ and how has it impacted your life?

One of my favorite attributes of Christ is that He is unchanging, an immovable Rock. Every morning, He is the same. Whatever circumstance I am in, His character and nature is constant. This fact has been such a comfort to me as He has been teaching me consistency in my walk with Him and just in how I live out Christianity in daily life. It is easy to simply allow fleshly emotions or feelings to rule any given circumstance, but doing so does not give Christ the place as the unwavering Anchor of my soul. Christ does not get agitated, shaken, or stressed out. He is a rock of peace, strength, calm, and stability that is unmoved by the waves around Him. Because I am in Christ, whatever does not move Him should not move me. He is a secure fortress and if I hide myself in Him, I do not need to fear whatever waves may come up against me or let fickle emotions control my day. The way I respond to every situation, my tone of voice, my disposition, the words of my mouth, my thoughts - all of these things ought to be a constant reflection of a life founded on a steadfast Rock. I certainly haven’t “arrived” in this area, but He is pruning me!

Q: Other than your passion for Set Apart Femininity, what is another passion God has placed on your heart?

For several years, overseas missions has been one of my biggest passions, particularly Asia. However, until recently, that passion has mostly depended on the anticipated excitement of missionary life - the adventure, the testing of faith, the proving of God's power, and the thrill of the unknown. But this year God has revealed the reality and power of the Gospel to me in such a powerful and personal way that now I actually feel like I have something real to offer people! I would love for God to call me overseas some day, but I am so excited that He is first building in me this passion to see people set free by the power of the Gospel and take hold of the full purchase of the cross. And I don't have to be in another country for God to use that! *

Read Tessa’s article on page 93

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these are a few of my favorite things: Big thunderstorms People-watching in busy airports My nieces and nephew Homemade blueberry muffins Holiday traditions with my family Early morning sunrises Connecting with God through His creation Meaningful, one-on-one conversations All things autumn Sharing about an answered prayer The grandeur and depth of the Gospel

b

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Let There Be Light Photography

"We are not here to be overcome, but to rise unvanquished after every knockout blow, and laugh the laugh of faith, not fear."

- Amy Carmichael

SOCL Interviews continued on page 116

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Photography

by Jade Valcarcel Copyright 2011 The Church

at Ellerslie. Â All rights reserved. Â

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Beautiful Provision

When God Claims a Closet.

“But my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”

Phil. 4:19

by Annie Wesche Someone once said that my mum’s

smile from Christ upon her face - radiant.

style had “the look of royalty.” And while I would definitely share this opinion, her wardrobe is far more “bargain & consignment shop” than “jewels and designer labels.” She’s frugal through and through,

She set the example for me in the area of style and laid a beautiful foundation in my life that has accompanied me on all of my shopping trips - the belief that God has promised to meet all our needs and

but you would never know it to look at her. She truly looks like a fine lady classy, dignified, and - with the genuine

delights to have us ask Him about even the small things, like a recital dress or new shoes.

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If God has called us to be women of

room didn’t yield anything, but as I was

virtue, clothed with dignity and dressed modestly, then why would we not seek His wisdom and provision in this area of our lives?

In a world that caters to the very opposite of dignity and modesty, it can be a

walking out of the store I discovered the most perfect pair. If I could have envisioned my “ideal” these would have been it! But because they sported a price tag of $79, I could only subtly wince and walk out of the

tricky thing to navigate the racks of modern trends and land a dress that comes past the knees and doesn’t need a scarf draped across the chest. But I have a few personal stories I want share with you that illustrate

store. I made due with my nice black pair the rest of that summer, but I confess, I thought of this ‘dream’ pair once or twice more.

Summer came to an end and

God’s amazing love and provision for me, even in this seemingly small area of life:

as I was driving by DSW one day, I felt the nudge to go inside. I had completely forgotten about my “dream summer shoes” (as it was now winter) until I saw them sitting there, back in the clearance room. I was determined not to get my hopes up but upon further examination God’s provision was looking me square in the eyes. One pair left. My size.

And the price tag almost winked at me -- $15.

In gratitude to this

Summer Sandals Restraining “want” with stewardship

Mid-summer of 2010 my brown sandals had been worn clear through and I headed to DSW to browse the clearance aisles for a new pair. My search in the back

blessing from the Lord I reminded myself once more, “Wait upon the Lord, Annie.

Don’t allow the pleas of ‘I must have’, ‘It’s only one splurge’, or ‘But I need it!’ to invade a contented, trusting heart. He always provides. Sometimes with a garage sale find, a clearance sale or a gift from a friend.

And sometimes in the exact pair, just one season later.”

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Don’t allow the pleas of “I must have”, “It’s only one splurge”, or “But I need it!” to invade a contended, trusting heart.

Royal BlueDress Trusting His provision in gift-giving

Jade had been eyeing a new dress for Easter and with some recent gift money she was making plans to go purchase a lovely royal blue one at Macy’s. But when a need arose for the money to go elsewhere, I watched the twinge of disappointment come over her.

“Jade,” I said excitedly, “just think of my shoes! This is how we live - by faith. We may see things we would like to buy, but our money is not our own. So if that money is needed for something else, He’ll provide in a new way.”

Later that same day on my way home, I stopped at a clothing store that carries new, last-season items. When I was done looking for what I needed, I strolled over to the dress section and began breezing through. It took me a

moment to realize I was holding my breath, but there in my hands was a royal blue dress. And as I pulled it out it was revealed to be the same size, style, and brand of the one currently in stores that Jade had had her eye on.

My heart started to beat faster as I realized what the Lord was unfolding.

“Please, Lord, please let this be for Jade!” I looked at the price: $15.

When I came home that night and presented the dress to Jade, she cried and sat shaking her head in disbelief.

Why would a current dress be found at a last-season store at such a fraction of the price? So that God could show His faithfulness.

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“This is how we live, Jade.

We’ve

closet that boasted of “spring” so when I

seen God provide in relationships, prayer, witnessing, finances, and now in this. It all belongs to Him and if we surrender the want, and trust Him for the need, He goes above and beyond our expectations - to the praise

was dropping off a few items for resale at my favorite second-hand shop, I glanced around for a few brighter-hued items that we could photograph the next day.

I love having things that are high

of His glory! We don’t put our joy in the objects, but lay everything at His feet in joyful expectation that if it will please Him, He will provide it!”

quality - they last so much longer - but high quality most often comes with a higher price.

And sometimes it can be worth the investment for a timeless piece. I love JCrew for their classic, high quality style, but I have

Yellow Jacket

never purchased something full price in their stores. While scanning the racks and waiting for my items to be looked-over I spotted a brand new mustard yellow vintage style sweater. It was JCrew with the original tags

Supplying the cover shot

still attached.

Now, I should interject here that before walking into the shop I had asked the Lord to provide something new for the next day’s photoshoot.

I also asked that whatever I earned in the selling of my used

It was the day before we had planned on going out for a few photo shoots and I was getting together some items for our “detail” shots. I didn’t have much in my

Style: a surrendered expression of her high calling as a woman of dignity, grace, and femininity.

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items would be enough to cover anything I would find - so that I wouldn’t overspend. As I looked at this beautiful jacket, I wondered if my gutsy prayer had been a bit too hasty and specific.

The tag read only $16 - a steal for a brand new item, especially from JCrew. I was shocked!

But I was still bound by faith-filled obedience to my prayer before the Lord.

By the time they posted my name up on the board I had joyfully resolved in my heart to trust in God’s provision and not waver or even display a wince should I not have the money needed.

“Annie?” the store clerk said.

“We can offer you $16.50 for three of your items. Is that pleasing to you?”

I smiled and said, “Oh, more than you know.”

***** Far too often I do not give the Lord room to work on my behalf in areas I may think “small” or “less important.” And it is true that there are many more pressing issues for the Kingdom than my shoes or a new jacket. Style is not to be an obsession in the life of a set-apart young women, but a surrendered expression of her high calling as a woman of dignity, grace, and femininity.

We are not provided for by a God who is

limited in where His attentions may be spent.

He does not need to manage His time, dividing it between the important and less important. He longs to be intimately involved in every area of our lives, bringing His beauty and righteousness to it, in order to testify of Himself. If your style and wardrobe is surrendered before Him, sought to be kept within it’s proper boundaries of feminine grace, modesty, and contentment, I know you will find Him faithful, as I have, to “have preeminence” (Col. 1:18) and “supply all your need” (Phil. 4:19). *

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Q&A with leslie

Q: A:

What kind of swimwear is appropriate for a set-apart young woman?

Once upon a time, women’s swimsuits actually covered the sensual areas of the body, and it was perfectly normal to swim with real clothing on. Now, going to the pool or the beach means walking around in clothing that doesn’t cover much of anything - which explains why modern men flock to swimming areas in order to lust after women.

Walking around in modern swimwear is basically like walking around in your underwear. And while most of us wouldn’t walk through the mall or go to the bus station in nothing more than a bra and panties, we think nothing of walking the beach in such a skimpy ensemble. We assume that because something is called a “swimsuit” that means it’s different than what comes out of our underwear drawer everyday, notwithstanding the fact that it leaves the same amount of skin exposed. Even if you choose not to wear a two-piece, most one-piece suits are so form-fitting that

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they leave very little to the imagination. Nearly every modern swimsuit reveals areas of the body that are meant only for the enjoyment of our future husband.

Sure, it’s socially acceptable to walk around half-naked when you are near water. But does that mean we should just accept the cultural trend without a second thought? Most of us think that modesty guidelines automatically “loosen up” when it comes to swimming because it just seems unreasonable to cut out swimming altogether and it’s impractical to swim in jeans and a tee shirt.

But if we are

seeking to dress with dignity in every other area of our life, why would swimwear fall into the “exception” category just because it might be a difficult area to navigate? As far as I am concerned, the same standards for modest dressing should apply to swimwear as to the rest of our wardrobe. If we are showing off parts of our skin or figure that are meant only for our husband, then we are not dressing as a set-apart woman.

I realize this presents a pretty significant dilemma, considering there aren’t many, if any, stores that carry truly modest swimsuits. You’ll probably have to get creative. For the past few years, I have worn “water shorts” or “board shorts” over my swimsuit when I swim – they are loose-fitting shorts that are made to go in the water and they actually cover up the parts of my body I don’t want seen.

Since I

used to race triathlons, I discovered a few years ago that there are athletic swim tops that are made for competitive sports, rather than for showing off the female body, so I wear these kinds of swim tops when I go to the beach or pool. I usually get a size or two larger than my actual size so they fit a bit looser. I make sure they don’t hang in a baggy, sloppy

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way, but also that they aren’t super-tight. Sometimes layering a form-fitting swim top underneath helps give a bit more coverage.

I feel perfectly comfortable in modest, sporty swimwear – no one thinks that I am trying to make a “modest” fashion statement, and I am free to enjoy the water without wondering if men’s eyes are on me. Most companies that sell women’s triathlon clothes carry racing shorts and tops that are made to go in the water, but are far more modest than traditional swimwear. I’ve even talked to some young women who found some modest, water-proof workout tops and shorts in the athletic section at Target.

With a little research and effort, dressing with dignity and modesty can be achieved even in the area of swim-clothes.

Both your future husband and all the warrior-poets out there will be thrilled if you take the time to honor Christ in this area of your life. *

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88

Adorning

YOUR LIFE WITH

TRUTH

by Leslie Ludy with Tessa Hershberger & Amy Meyers

From Leslie:

Not long after I surrendered my life to been part of my vocabulary. Centering my Christ, I received a hope chest. It wasn’t life around popularity, pleasure and the anything fancy; just a small wooden bench approval of the opposite sex had reduced that was meant to store special things for everything in my existence to something my wedding, future home, etc. But for all its worldly, sensual and base. simplicity, that hope chest turned out to be But now that Christ had become the one of the best gifts I ever received. Right center of my life, He began to train me in around the time that I began to experience the art of sacred living. I began to place a true intimacy with Christ, life took on a high value on special and meaningful things. brand new sparkle and freshness. For the My hope chest became a storehouse of first time, I began to notice and cherish sacred treasures. In it, I kept journals that sacred things. chronicled my intimate journey with Christ, While I had been living for selfish poems and songs that had flowed out of my pleasure and falling prey to pop culture times of private worship, letters to my future attractions, the word “sacred” hadn’t really husband, promises I felt God had given me, Copyright 2010 The Church at Ellerslie. All rights reserved.

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and special notes or sentimental gifts from my family members. Frequently, I would look through my chest, cherishing all the things that had become sacred in my life – my intimate fellowship with Jesus, my commitment to my future husband, my

Whether you choose to frame a poem or song, paint a masterpiece, or do something else that is unique to you, taking the time to “decorate” your life with Truth will add sparkle and romance to your spiritual journey – and keep your first love fresh and alive.

Consider some ways that you can begin to cherish the sacred moments in your walk with Christ by adorning your daily life with beautiful reminders of His nature and His Word. Even if they are only small things that no one else would appreciate, remember that this is something special between you and the Lover of your soul.

Begin asking yourself how you can create meaningful ways to remember the Truths that have most impacted you spiritually. A friend of mine often makes an artistic collage to memorialize God’s work in her life. Another friend takes beautiful black and white photos and frames them – sometimes with an important Bible verse scripted over the picture.

To make this concept practical, I asked two of our writers, Tessa and Amy, to share how they are currently applying this principle to their lives, and also to glean some additional ideas from the members on our Set Apart Girl Team.

Begin asking yourself how you can create meaningful ways to remember the Truths that have most impacted you spiritually. relationship with my parents and siblings.

Once I began to value and cherish sacred things, life was full of beauty and richness like never before. Soon, I began to adorn my bed, walls, dresser, and even the dashboard of my car with precious reminders of the Truth that had forever changed my life.

Christ cautions us in Revelation 2:4 against “forsaking our first love.” One of the best ways to keep our love story with our Heavenly Prince fresh and alive is to remember and cherish His fingerprints upon our life story and to place important memorials of His work in places where we will see them often.

Here are some of their insights…

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In

one of his final exhortations to the Israelites before they cross into the Promised Land, Moses charges them to surround themselves with the words of the Lord: “Therefore shall ye lay up these my words in your heart and in your soul, and bind them for a sign upon your hand, that they may be as frontlets between your eyes…And thou shalt write them upon the door posts of thine house, and upon thy gates.” (Deut. 11:18, 20) It wasn’t enough for the Israelites to simply appreciate or esteem the words of the Lord - they had to get their tools out and get carving. An environment bedecked with Truth doesn’t just happen, but requires decided action (and a little creativity). It’s likely you already have plenty of things to get started “adorning your life,” and it surely won’t take as much time as carving words into a door post. Take a good look around your living space - is it a clear reflection of the values of your life and the priorities of your heart? If not, set aside some time to plan specific ways you could add truth, and thusly create a place in which you, and others, will constantly be pointed to He who is Truth.

In our little basement home, we (Tessa and Amy) have tried to create a warm and lovely space by working with what we have instead of spending loads of money and time shopping at Bed, Bath, and B e y o n d . We h a d a b o o k o f

Impressionism paintings that we found at a used bookstore and tore out the pages to create an artsy backdrop for some of our most-loved quotes and verses. By connecting several different images and pasting on complimentary card stock, the quotes stand out well and it gives the pieces more texture and vibrancy. Besides art books, you could use old hymnals from your grandma’s attic or out-dated magazines or calendars to design unique collages that reflect the things most important to you.

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Here are some other ideas from the girls on our setapartgirl team: Amelia printed out one of her very favorite Elisabeth Elliot quotes on a piece of patterned paper and put it in a simple black picture frame.

She keeps it on her desk. Every day, as she works on all the little details that come with her role as Set Apart Girl Conference Coordinator, this serves as a daily encouragement and reminds her of Who she is truly working for.

There are a lot of ways you could turn a frame you already have into an inspiring display of Truth by artistically scripting the lyrics to a s i g n i fi c a n t w o r s h i p s o n g o r creating a photo collage with quotes or scriptures that spur you on in your walk with Jesus.

When you walk into Marlene’s room, it’s obvious what she is seeking to focus on. With its impeccable neatness and calm simplicity, it reflects the quiet and undistracted heart of its occupant. Beside her bed, she has hung up a homemade ribbon banner with verses and quotes that hold special significance in her life. To make the promises her own, she personalized the verses

with her name, adding even more beauty and meaning to her romance with Jesus.

But even without Marlene’s amazing computer design skills, it is possible to put together this type of wall art with your own distinct flavor and personality by using a calligraphy pen or fine-tip markers.

As a talented photographer, Lauren has an eye for beauty and her dorm room shows it. While her space is filled with many beautiful things, they all work together to create a atmosphere that is warm and inviting to the presence of God - and any visitors who may pop in. One example of the many eye-catching visuals is a piece of black and white patterned paper on which Lauren has written a phrase that encourages her afresh each day to continue carrying her cross with a glad and willing heart: Remember surrender. It’s quite a simple idea, but the way she took the time to artistically script the lettering makes it so much more inspiring than if she would have just scribbled it out on a sticky note. If Lauren had chosen to

only display photos on her wall, she wouldn’t have that daily reminder pressing her on down the narrow path she has chosen.

Leslie’s Final Thoughts:

I’ll never forget reading the story of spent many days wondering how Betsy – Betsy ten Boom, when she and her sister who loved beauty, flowers, and sunshine – Corrie were first put into prison for hiding was fairing in such a destitute, ugly place.

Jews in their home during the Nazi invasion.

Betsy had always had a gift for The prison was filthy, dark, rancid and making things beautiful – for creating beauty overcrowded with despairing, sick, miser- all around her, no matter where she was, able women. Corrie and Betsy were even on a meager income. But how could a separated into different cells, and Corrie dank prison cell be made into a haven?

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One day, Corrie got the chance to walk by Betsy’s cell and took a quick glimpse inside.

To her amazement, she saw that somehow the bleak chamber had been transformed into a sacred sanctuary. “Unbelievably, against all logic, the cell was charming,” Corrie wrote. “The straw pallets were rolled instead of piled in a heap, standing like little pillars among the walls, each with a lady’s hat atop it. A headscarf had somehow been hung on the wall. The contents of several food packages were arranged on a small shelf.

Even the coats hanging on their hooks were part of the welcome of that room, each sleeve draped over the shoulder of the coat next to it like a row of dancing children.”

The sacred beautiful environment Betsy had miraculously created was simply

a reflection of the beauty and sacredness in Betsy’s inner life. Even a dismal prison cell could not crush Betsy’s radiance and joy – because her inward beauty came from Jesus Christ. And that Heavenly beauty could not help but spill over into her environment, no matter where she was.

When Truth adorns our inner life, our outward environment reflects Heaven’s beauty – no matter what our physical circumstances might be. Our God delights in order, beauty and cherishing what is sacred.

As set-apart girls, we have a wonderful opportunity to adorn our surroundings with simple touches that reflect His glory and point our focus continually back to Him – the Author of beauty and Truth. *

SET APART VOICES WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU: NEXT ISSUE’S QUESTION: How do you adorn your life with Truth?

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Set Apart Girls answer the question: SET APART VOICES

What woman from Christian history has had an impact on your life & why?

“

“I would fight for my liberty so long as my strength lasted, and if the time came for me to go, the Lord would let them take me.” - Harriet Tubman. Every since I was a little girl, the story of Harriet Tubman fascinated me - her courage, her strength, her endurance. She ran without looking back, she climbed without slowing, and she gave without stopping. I have longed to be a woman of courage - one that runs to the battlefield of spiritual war with no fear. Because I can't die, until God says its time. The courage of Harriet Tubman and many other victorious woman in history is an inspiration to me.

Thank you, Rebecca age

17 | PENNSYLVANIA

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Amy Carmichael, from a young age, had a strong faith in our Savior.

She never got married and God used her in spectacular ways! It shows me God can use me even in my single years - whether it’s for a short time or for all of my life. I don't have to be married to go in the mission field.

Thank you, Joanna age

22 | BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA

The humble Jewish orphan, Hadassah, later known as Queen Esther of Persia, has had a substantial impact on my walk with Christ through the example she set. Esther showed unwavering courage and unalterable persistence to save the Jewish people from annihilation. As shown when she entered King Xerxes’ courts, death could not even become between her and her goal. I have learned from Esther that I should not be afraid of anything to stand up for the glorification of the Kingdom of God. With prayer and fasting, she gained the strength to accomplish the seemingly impossible. With this in mind, I can, through prayer and the counsel of the Almighty Counselor, do anything (Philippians 4:13).

Another perspective on the story of Esther is demonstrated in the following verse: “And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?” (Esther 4:14). When we obey God and walk through the doors He sets before us, we are there for a specific purpose such as Esther. Very recently I had to question God why I was at this place in my life that seemed not to make sense at all. After reading the passage of Esther that contained the verse above, my Prince in His amazing still small voice whispered to me, “For such a time as this, I have placed you here for a reason.

And that reason is to bring light into this darkness.” It seems impossible at the moment but in time, after I walk into the King’s courts without being summoned and continue to pray, I know, like Esther, I too will see the will of God unfold before my very eyes.

WE WANT TO hear from you:

Thank you, Katie age

17 | GEORGIA

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Let There Be Light Photography

take it deeper

Order Now!

The Lost Art of True Beauty In today’s sex-obsessed society, pop-culture’s idea of feminine beauty seems to be all about looking like the hottest models, movie stars, or popsingers, but the end results are often tragic - overwhelming insecurity, eating disorders, and sexual promiscuity. This book presents a whole different vision for feminine loveliness as God intended it to be - the breathtaking radiance of a young woman who has been transformed by Christ from the inside out. This book offers lots of practical advice about how to:

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Showcase Christ’s beauty in the way you dress, act, and live Overcome insecurity and see yourself as God sees you Become attractive to the right kind of guy Build your femininity on God’s values instead of the world’s

The Lost Art of True Beauty will lead you on a life-changing journey to become a woman of feminine grace, inner radiance and timeless appeal!

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This ministry is built upon prayer and we want you to join with us.

See our up to date prayer requests online!

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Our ministry is a testimony of the provision of God - in it’s content, creative elements, and the finances needed to have such a publication. As we move towards going to print, there are many practical things that we will be needing. If you feel led to lend a hand in this way, go online to see a list of our practical needs!

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e i t n e r d l i s h ’ r e C Moth e h t Feet

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The Sacred Call of Serving

by Leslie Ludy

Amy Carmichael, one of my greatest spiritual heroes, writes in her

tunities were opening up for her. But God begin to open her eyes, and her

book Gold Cord about a crucial decision she made during her early days in India. She was at the peak of her influence as a missionary, writer, and speaker, and many big oppor-

heart, to the countless children in that region that were in desperate need of rescue from slavery, abuse, and perversion. First one child came to live with Amy, then another and

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another – until her mission base was filled to overflowing with precious young lives who were crying out for love, care and spiritual training.

So she had to make a choice: should she turn these little ones over to be raised by others, or should she do the task herself? God had given Amy many unique gifts and talents. An entire country was awaiting spiritual revival. Huge opportunities awaited her; opportunities for evangelistic meetings, speaking engagements, and missionary conventions. She had the chance to influence thousands of people for Christ. Could it be right to walk away from all of that and instead pour all her time, energy, talents and resources into a handful of helpless little children? She wrestled intensely with the question. And soon the answer came, clearly and unquestioningly:

“Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into His hands, and that He was come from God and went to God; He riseth from supper and laid aside His garments; and took a towel and girded Himself.” (John 13:3-4)

“He took a towel,” Amy wrote, “The Lord of Glory did that.

Is it the bondservant’s business to say which work

is large and which is small, which unimportant and which worth doing?

Children tie the mother’s feet, the Tamils say, and Bishop Paget said, ‘with the venture of faith there is need of selfdiscipline and effort.’ Babies are truly a venture of faith and, in India at least, they tie the mother’s feet. We knew we could not be too careful of our children’s earliest years. So we let our feet be tied for love of Him whose feet were pierced.” (from Gold Cord) ***

I love efficiency. I can’t stand wasted time. I am an expert multi-tasker. When it comes to getting things accomplished, my motto is, “why do only one thing when you could get three things done at once?” or “why put it off till later when you could get it done right now?”

Over the years, this approach has led to a highly productive life.

It’s what has enabled me to write eighteen books in sixteen years, speak at thousands of conferences, launch the ministry of Set Apart Girl and work alongside Eric to train and disciple young Christians for Kingdom work.

But my amazing efficiency came to a screeching halt when God gave me four young children. Any mother on the planet could tell you that efficiency and young

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children simply do not mix. My toddlers have the uncanny ability to completely destroy (in less than five minutes) a room that took me an hour to clean. My little boy Hudson frequently “re-organizes” every single item in the schoolroom, thus requiring me to spend two hours revamping everything before I can function in there again. And all too often, I accomplish only one of the five things I had planned to do with the children on a given day, because one of them starts fussing and has to sit in time out for forty-five minutes until their attitude changes. It takes Harper a half hour to eat three bites of toast. It takes Kip twenty minutes to finally stop screaming in the bathtub so I can get his hair washed.

And why is it that whenever I take extra time to dress the kids up for an event, one of them has a leaky diaper, another spits up every where, and still another spills grape juice all over her clothes?

Since having children, my efficiency has dropped dramatically.

As the Tamil proverb says, “Children tie the mother’s feet.” That describes my life quite well. The more children I have, the less productive my life seems, and the more restricted my life becomes. My personal freedom is greatly diminished. My knack for “getting a lot of things done” is hampered. Even going to the grocery store has become a luxury that must be carefully strategized. And I can’t just hop in my car and run to the mall or coffee shop whenever the mood strikes (in fact, I don’t even remember what that kind of freedom feels like!) “Alone time” doesn’t happen unless I get up well before the break of dawn. And in order to finish a project like cleaning out my closet or organizing the Copyright 2011 The Church at Ellerslie. All rights reserved.

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storage room, I must plan it about a month in advance in order to line up enough childcare help.

Gone are the highly effective workdays in which I write five chapters in a book, speak on two national radio shows, participate in four conference calls and attend a three-hour planning meeting all in a twenty-four hour period of time. Now, I might spend an entire morning teaching Avy how to roll Playdough into a ball, setting up a treasure hunt in the backyard for Hudson, dancing to the “Mickey Mouse Clubhouse” theme song with Kip (I sing this in my sleep now) and examining a ladybug with Harper.

Countless hours of every week are spent on picking things up and re-organizing rooms that I know will become messy again within days (or hours), and painstakingly baking special treats for the kids that I know will be scarfed down within a few minutes.

Less productive. Less glamorous.

Less globally influential. Less important?

No.

In fact, quite the opposite is true. As

Amy Carmichael says, “The Master never wastes the servant’s time.”

Productivity is not God’s highest goal for this season of my life; obedience is.

Success in His Kingdom is not measured by numbers of people reached, quantity of books written, or worldly accolades received. Rather, He says, “Whoever desires to become great among you, let him be a servant.” (Matthew 20:26) and, “Whoever gives one of these little ones only a cup of cold water in My name, assuredly, I say to you, he shall by no means lose his reward.” (Matthew 10:42)

Taking the “lower place” of spending my best time, energy, and talents on my children is a way of serving the One who gave His life for me; the One who left His home in glory in order to wrap a towel around His waist, humble Himself, and tenderly wash my dirty feet.

It is a great privilege to allow my feet to be tied for the love of Him whose feet were pierced. *

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take it deeper

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Wrestling

Prayer

Wrestling Prayer is filled with practical ways to help you build a stronger prayer life. A lot of us feel defeated in our spiritual life. Many of us have tried praying without success, and our expectations of God diminished as a result. For much of my Christian journey, this was how I felt in my prayer life - frustrated and discouraged. But over the past few years, I’ve learned some important things about prayer that have revolutionized my spiritual walk.

Prayer can’t be baked down into a step-by-step recipe or cookie-cutter

formula, but there are some Biblical principles that, when applied to your personal prayer life, can revolutionize your experience with a God who hears and answers prayer. If you are feeling lackluster in your prayer life, don’t miss this challenging and inspiring book!

a passionate communion with God copyright 2010 The Church at Ellerslie, all rights reserved

105

the

kiddo spot e t u c stuff

the ludy kids are “saying & doing”

HUDSON, age 6 Hudson is earning a small amount of spending money each week.

Last week he

had five dollars in his piggy bank, and shopped long and hard for the perfect toy to buy. Finally he found it – an “ugly doll” which is a small green one-eyed character with buck teeth. strange way.

It is kind of cute in a

Hudson was overjoyed to

have discovered such an amazing character on which to spend his hard-earned money.

He decided to re-name the toy “Happy Face,” because he didn’t really like the term “Ugly Doll.”

Every morning when he makes

his bed, Happy Face is proudly displayed right in the very center.

HARPER, age 4 She got her first bike! It is actually sort of a hybrid between a trike and a bike, because her little legs are still too short to ride a normal kid-sized bike. Her trike/bike is kind of vintage looking and is bubble gum pink. She is so happy to be able to ride all by herself, and she wants to go on a walk every night after dinner so she can show off her new skill to the whole neighborhood. She keeps telling me, “I’m getting’ weally good at this!” as she sits up tall and proudly grips the handle bars, pumping her little legs as fast as they will go. Too precious. Soon we are going to install a basket so she can take Lambie out for a spin.

KIPLING, age 2 He is WAY into music!

Every morning after breakfast, he runs into our

classroom/playroom and gets out his bongo drum and drum stick. He asks me to turn on either the Mickey Mouse Clubhouse song or the theme from Monsters, Inc.

And then he drums, drums and drums away, right on beat, and one of his

legs is always jiggling and bouncing away, kind of like a country-western musician playing a banjo. funnier.

He keeps a poker face on the whole time which makes it even

And then every few minutes he will take a break and “dance” which he

also does without cracking a smile, as he spins around and waves his arms up the in the air –his dancing looks a bit tribal.

AVONLEA, age 1 She learned how to sing her first song!

It is so painfully cute.

It’s a very

cheesy song from Barney (the big purple dinosaur) and it goes “I love YOU.

You

love ME. We’re a happy family…” Normally I’d think this is a terribly corny song but when Avy sings it in her tiny little voice, over-exaggerating every word, it’s the most beautiful piece of music I’ve ever heard. Also, she has started the quirky habit of saying “I can’t see!” whenever she can’t do something.

So all day long,

when she’s trying to reach something that is too high or put on her shoes that are too tight she will yell, “I can’t see, Mama!” If you didn’t know better you’d think something was wrong with her eyesight, or the lighting in our house.

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Copyright 2010 The Church at Ellerslie. Â All rights reserved. Â No material from this website may be copied, reproduced, or distributed without express written permission from The Church at Ellerslie

Leslie’s Blog!

& Marriage mamahood

Moments from my life.

go online to subscribe to Leslie’s blog MOTHERHOOD: Training up a lil’ hero-in-the-making

Last week Harper (age 4) decided that she wanted to kiss Hudson “on the lips” instead of just on the cheek. She proposed the idea as we were all eating breakfast. “Can I kiss Hudson on the lips?” she asked, her expression filled with childlike innocence. (After all, if Mommy and Daddy can kiss on the lips, why couldn’t she kiss Hudson that way?) Hudson (age 6) looked up from his food and thought about it for a minute. Then, he turned to Harper and said in a firm, somewhat patronizing tone, “Save it for your husband Harper!” and went back to eating his toast. It was an absolutely hilarious moment that I will forever wish we had on film. Though Hudson was not necessarily tender or sensitive in his approach, we caught a glimpse of the “protector of purity” that we are training him to become in his sister’s life. Hudson doesn’t really yet know anything about sexuality or purity. However, he seems to have picked up on the fact that certain things are meant to be held sacred for marriage...

CLICK HERE TO READ THE REST

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Reaching the Orphan.

Serving the children & families of foster care

LESLIE SAYS: A friend of mine felt a burden to take in foster children. Not long after she and her husband became certified, they received a call at 3 a.m. asking if they could come and pick up two kids that had been removed from a crisis situation: a 10-day old premature baby girl, and her 18-month-old brother. My friend and her husband drove to a Village Inn parking lot in the middle of the night and picked up the two kids. They had no baby supplies; no bottles, diapers, toys, cribs or high chairs. The children were traumatized, taken from all that was familiar and abruptly thrust into the hands of strangers. It was a challenging situation, both for my friend and for the kids. Sadly, this scenario is not uncommon. Many times when children are placed into foster situations, it happens suddenly, with very little time to gather belongings or help supply the foster family with everything they need. What a great opportunity to make a difference in their moment of need! Consider putting together "care packages" for children who are making the transition into foster families - items that will help meet their practical and emotional needs in the midst of a difficult transition. Create your own care basket project and then contact your local department of human services and they will tell you where to deliver it.

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Basket Ideas.

Baby: A fun idea would be to get a diaper bag and fill it with (pick a specific age or age range and then get stuff that is suitable for a baby that age) : • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Diapers Wipes Diaper cream Lotion Bibs An outfit (onsie, pants, socks, a little hat), or packs of onsies and socks and a pair of pants.

Chew toys or rattle or some little baby toy a bottle (or sippy-cup) Baby bath towel Formula Baby food You could also add a dish and spoon if it's for a little older baby If it's for a little baby you might also add a receiving blanket

Boys: Receiving Bag - Get a back-pack and fill it with: • some small toy(s) (small cars, little animals, stuffed animal, etc.)

• Shirt • Pants • Underwear • Socks • P.J.'s • Maybe some flip-flops or crocks/sandals

Girls: Receiving Bag - Get a back-pack and fill it with: • some small toy(s) (Polly-Pocket, doll, stuffed animal, etc.)

• Shirt • Pants or skirt • Panties • Socks • P.J.'s • Flip-flops or sandals/ crocks

Other needs:

Car Seats | Crib Sets | Diapers & Wipes | Little Kid Chairs | High Chairs | Non-perishable food items

School: Get a back-pack and fill it with: • Pencils • Crayons (if the child is younger) • Pencil sharpener • Pencil case • Note Book(s) • Folder • Markers • Scissors (Child safe, if they’re older) • Calculator (if their older) • Stick glue • Ruler • Think fun and cute. Go for more, rather than less.

Birthday: Determine whether this is for a boy or a girl and get themed: • Paper plates • Cups • Napkins • Plastic Forks and Spoons • Balloons • Birthday hats • Plastic Table Cloth • Candles • Cake Mix • You can also do fun little party toys or party favors of some sort

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LAUREN TORRES . PHOTOGRAPHY .

SISTER OF THE COMMON LIFE: Lauren Torres FROM: Northern Illinois AGE: 22 SIBLINGS: the oldest of nine! 5 sisters & 3 brothers FAVORITE FLOWER: lilacs COZY DRINK OF CHOICE: dark, dark chocolate mochas WHAT INSPIRES YOU CREATIVELY: Jesus, beautiful photography, music SIGNIFICANT LIFE VERSE: Psalm 34:8 “O, taste and see that the Lord is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in Him.”

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Q: Lauren, when did you decide to live a set-apart life for Jesus?

About four years ago, I read Authentic Beauty for the first time and began to catch the incredible vision of what the set-apart life looks like for a young woman. However, it was only recently that I made the decision to follow hard after Jesus and live a set-apart life for Him. I came to truly know Jesus about six months ago, when I first came to Ellerslie. As He drew my heart to His, I realized that He was asking for absolute surrender and radical abandonment unto Him. In short, He was asking for everything. I had been looking to the temporal and trifling pleasures of the world to satisfy me, but none of those fleeting pleasures could satisfy the deepest longings of my heart. But then I met Jesus, and He has completely captivated my soul.

Every day with Him simply gets better. A verse that became very special to me during that beautiful season of surrender (though surrender is to be a continual thing) is, “Therefore we are buried with Him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we should also walk in newness of life.” (Romans 6.4) I love that - newness of life. There’s no better way to describe what He has done in me! He is so good!

Q: In the busyness of life, how do you cultivate your spiritual growth and intimacy with Christ?

One of the ways I cultivate spiritual growth and intimacy with Jesus is by rising early to spend time with Him. Now, I have never been a “morning person” and my mornings generally consisted of sleeping until the last possible moment and then frantically rushing around to get ready for the day.

It definitely did not start off my day in a good way! However, God began to really poke at this area and show me that it needed to come under His subjection. It’s not always easy to get out of bed when that alarm goes off, but His strength never fails, and the rewards of making Jesus my priority first thing in the morning are so rich. I treasure my quiet mornings spent with Him in prayer, reading and studying His Word, and worship.

I also love to journal. It’s so incredible to look back and be amazed all over again at God’s faithfulness and His work in my life and know that it’s just a taste of what’s to come!

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Q: What is one of your favorite attributes of Christ and how does it impact your life?

The redeeming nature of Jesus is so precious to me! When I remember my old life: the miserable, self-consumed, flesh-ruled existence that I lived, I am overwhelmed by His redeeming love. He didn’t have to lift me out of that mess. He didn’t have to wash me clean and set my feet upon the solid Rock.

He didn’t have to put His very life inside of me and clothe me with His righteousness. He didn’t have to breathe life and hope into my dry, weary soul. He didn’t have to purchase my soul upon the Cross and pay the ransom for my sin. Oh, but He did! There is nothing in me that deserves redemption, yet He has taken this life and made it His and for His purposes. I’m so grateful for the undeserved, redeeming love of Jesus Christ.

Q: What is something you desire this generation of young women to know?

I desire them to know that Jesus Christ is more than enough to satisfy every longing of their souls (Psalm 107:9). There is not a single longing that He cannot fulfill! He is the only One that truly satisfies. Worldly pursuits may promise fulfillment and happiness, but they will leave you even emptier than before. If Jesus alone is not enough for you now, you will never be satisfied in anything else. He must be your sole desire and your deepest love. If you are willing to cast your life aside and look to Him alone, He will ravish your heart in ways that you cannot even imagine! It takes that first step of obedience in letting go of your life, but you will never, ever regret it. And you can trust that He will hold your hand every step of the way - now and always. *

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these are a few of my favorite things: Soundtrack music Cameos A.W. Tozer Stealing away to the secret place Grey Chuck Taylors Psalms Blank journal pages Quotes Worship Summer thunderstorms My family Black & white photography Friends

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Nothing before, nothing behind: the steps of faith fall on the seeming void, and find the Rock beneath.

- J. G. Whittier

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Copyright 2010 The Church at Ellerslie. Â All rights reserved. Â No material from this website may be copied, reproduced, or distributed without express written permission from The Church at Ellerslie

Let There Be Light Photography

SISTER OF THE COMMON LIFE: Madison Morton FROM: Florida AGE: 24 SIBLINGS: the oldest of seven FAVORITE FLOWER: sunflower COZY DRINK OF CHOICE: earl grey tea WHAT INSPIRES YOU CREATIVELY: musical scores SIGNIFICANT LIFE VERSE: Phillippians 3:13-14 “Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.”

madison morton . ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPPORT.

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Q: Madison, when did you decide to live a set-apart life for Jesus?

There have been multiple stages to my relationship with Jesus, and when I look back I am amazed at far I have come. I knew about Jesus from a young age and asked Him to save me. But it was only a few years ago that I dedicated my life to Him and since that time He has been faithful to call me closer and closer. Each step that I take brings me to a new level of commitment. I want Jesus to have every part of me - my dreams, my future, my day-to-day living - all of it His to do with as He chooses. I don’t think I could have said that even a year ago with honesty, I desired it but it was not evident. But, oh how faithful the Lord is, when you desire more of Him, He is faithful to answer your prayers. I can’t pinpoint the exact moment, but the echo of my heart is now Jesus have all of it; and I am sure a few years from now that echo will be even stronger and I will again say how amazed I am at how far He has brought me.

Q: Through choosing to walk set-apart unto Christ, what has one of the challenges been and how have you overcome it?

A struggle I have had is seeing where others are in their walk with Christ and comparing myself to them. What I have learned, what God has so graciously taught me, is that we are all different, and we are all in different points on the journey. Some are behind you and some are ahead of you, but God has you just where you ought to be. You don’t plant a seed and immediately get a giant oak, it takes time, the seedling has to grow and that’s how we are in Christ. We are all growing, some of us are still seedlings and others of us our little trees, and some have more leaves… We are not to stay where we are but we are to keep growing. God is faithful and He never gives us more then we can handle. He gives us grace enough for right now! And our eyes should not be looking at where others are but looking only to Jesus. Paul said this in Philippians 3:13-14, “Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. Look to Him and don’t let what you don’t know affect what you do. Take what God is showing you now, what He’s doing in you and walk forward, He is faithful and will complete the good work in you.” (Phil. 1:6)

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Q: What is something you desire this generation of young women to know?

I want them to know the power of the blood of Christ! There is nothing that is too great for Jesus - He is always faithful, He is always true, He always keeps His promises, and He never changes! His desire is for you to know Him, to allow Him to have full possession over your life and to work in and through you. Never will Jesus say, “Oh, that person is too broken for me,” or “I can’t work with them.” His blood is effectual for every sin that you have committed, are committing, and will commit. If we confess our sins, He is faithful to forgive. And not just to forgive, but to give us the power to overcome! He sets us free! Know that there is no penance with God. If you find that you have stumbled or fallen along the way. Get up and immediately turn your eyes back to Him. You, on your own, cannot work or do enough good things to earn your salvation; and you cannot earn your way back into His good graces if you fall. Jesus is the answer, He is your salvation and He is your help in every situation. You look to Him, yield your life to Him, and He will do it.

Q: Other than your passion for Set Apart Femininity, what is another passion God has placed on your heart?

He has placed in my heart a passion for Truth. Our generation is so clouded by lies and deception and I yearn for the light of Jesus to shine in the darkness - in our government, in our schools systems, in our churches. I have particular passions for the unborn and the darkness of abortion that is so widespread in our nation. My heart is turned towards the women that have been lied to and so hurt by this destructive institution, the millions of children who are murdered in our own backyards, the men that are blinded to it, the workers who have been deceived. For each one the answer is Jesus - He is the Healer of the broken, He is the Redeemer, the Rescuer, the Hope for all. I am also passionate about the government and seeing the Truth of Jesus reign in our leaders and in our nations. John 16:33 says: “These things I have spoken unto you that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer I have overcome the world!” May my Jesus be lifted high! *

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Jesus Sunshine Lemons Ladybugs Pumpkin Spice Lattes Fall Leaves Musical Scores New pages in a journal Being with my family Rainy days The wonder of God's creation Lavender

these are a few of my favorite things:

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Copyright 2010 The Church at Ellerslie. Â All rights reserved. Â No material from this website may be copied, reproduced, or distributed without express written permission from The Church at Ellerslie

Let There Be Light Photography

What need had we of a Guide were the path a familiar one?

- Elisabeth Elliot

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Marlene de Vente . DESIGN .

SISTER OF THE COMMON LIFE: Marlene deVente FROM: South Africa AGE: 29 SIBLINGS: third of 6 FAVORITE SMELL: rain COZY DRINK OF CHOICE: Milo milkshake WHAT INSPIRES YOU CREATIVELY: uplifting Bible verses and good music SIGNIFICANT LIFE VERSE: Psalm 37:5 “Commit your way to the LORD, trust also in Him, and He will do it.”

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Q: Marlene, when did you decide to live a set-apart life for Jesus?

It was about 5 years ago. At that time, suddenly, my life started to fall apart. The ‘little kingdom’ which I had built throughout the years, came crumbling down miserably. Through a series of events and circumstances God brought me to the end of myself. And He came to me, took my hand and said “You can’t do it, My daughter. Let Me do it. Give Me your life and I promise to give you the life you’ve been longing for, the life I’ve made you for!” So I gave Him my life, my all - and He has been perfectly true to His promise ever since!

Q: In the busyness of life, how do you cultivate your spiritual growth and intimacy with Christ?

I like to start out my days with a lengthy ‘no-rush’: just spending time in the Word, in prayer, and in worship before I go about doing any ‘busyness.’

These are probably my favorite hours every day - the early morning hours when God is making me ready for His day. I will also try to take something special from these hours with me throughout the day: a Scripture verse that stood out to me, an impacting line of a song, or a good quote. Whenever I feel that I lose view of Him or when the busyness starts to overwhelm me, I will take a few moments and meditate on that ‘truth-for-today’ until I see Him clearly again. It helps me to keep the right focus throughout the day.

I also love long and quiet Saturday or Sunday afternoons for...yep, more time with Him.

Q: What is something you desire this generation of young women to know?

If only I was more beautiful, then... If only he would notice me, then... If only I was married, then... If only we had children, then... If only I had more friends, then... If only I could get a new hairdo, then... If only I could buy that smart outfit, then...

If only, if only... then?

No. It doesn’t matter how much these things can satisfy, I will still find my heart lacking deep within and longing for something more. Instead, if only

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Jesus Christ is the center of my existence - then, yes, only then, my heart is full of joy and my life abundant! Only then my longing heart is stilled.

Giving your life to Him you will never regret.

Yes, He asks all of us. But in return we get all of Him!

Q: What is one of your favorite attributes of Christ and how does it impact your life?

Joy! Fresh joy! Exceeding joy!

My prayer is that I will find my joy in Jesus, that He will be my Joy, every day - no matter what happens. *

these are a few of my favorite things: My mom’s tomato soup Great quotes Springtime Blue Making music with friends An inspiring book Watering the garden Long, wide skirts Making cards Raindrops on my face A child’s contagious giggle My dog’s way of saying “Good morning, come on out!”

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Truly, God gives the very best to those who leave the choice with Him. - Hudson Taylor Copyright 2010 The Church at Ellerslie. All rights reserved.

Read Marlene’s article on page 50

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Amelia Arnold . EVENTS .

SISTER OF THE COMMON LIFE: Amelia Arnold FROM: Massachusetts AGE: 26 SIBLINGS: third of 4 FAVORITE SMELL: in the countryside in the spring just after it rains COZY DRINK OF CHOICE: peppermint hot chocolate WHAT INSPIRES YOU CREATIVELY: God’s creation & His written Word SIGNIFICANT LIFE VERSE: John 3:30 “He must increase, but I must decrease.”

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Q: Amelia, when did you decide to live a set-apart life for Jesus?

I have had an understanding of the basics of the Gospel ever since I was young, but I remember when I was 13 I was at a camp for a weekend and it was there I realized that God wanted my life. I saw then that He was not just my Savior, but He was Lord and He deserved to be the One to rule and control my life. Ever since then God has been growing in me a deeper love for Him and a surrender to His will. He's continuing to teach me the deeper implications of being set-apart for Him and what it practically looks like in my life. It has entirely changed my perspective - I am not my own, I was bought with a price. I actually belong to Him! Not only is He mine, but I am His. Q: In the busyness of life, how do you cultivate your spiritual growth and intimacy with Christ?

Life is usually pretty busy! But the day must start off with Jesus and end with Jesus. I like to read my Bible before going to bed and fall asleep reviewing memory verses/passages in my mind. In the morning it can be hard for me to focus sometimes because I have the whole day before me with so much to do, but it's the sweetest time to have with the Lord and sets the tone for the day. Sometimes I like to go out for a walk early in the morning and pray as I watch the sun come up - just being out in God's creation and meditating on Him is so refreshing - and it's beautiful! It's helpful to have a plan - I have a specific book that I'm reading through and studying in Scripture, a prayer notebook to help my prayers be specific and focused, and I love to journal prayers and meditations to God. Q: What is something you desire this generation of young women to know?

Have you thought about what Heaven is? Heaven is not just the place we go when we die to have eternal bliss, it's not something for which we put up with life on earth waiting for. If someone were to ask you if you wanted to go to Heaven with its gold streets, mansions, no

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more sorrow, pain or sickness - then, sure, it sounds great right?

But what if you could have all that but Jesus wasn't there? You see, it's all about Jesus! Heaven is not Heaven without Jesus there. It isn't something you have to wait for - eternal life starts now because Jesus lives in you and is building you into His image. I don't know about you, but I would rather spend eternity in this sinful world with Jesus living in me, than go to Heaven without Him there.

Q: Other than your passion for Set Apart Femininity, what is another passion God has placed on your heart?

I think a passion God has given me is for families. I desire to see the children nurtured, lovingly disciplined, and instructed in the Truth, a strong marriage that reflects Christ, parents that have a strong understanding of the Gospel and the knowledge, wisdom, and freedom to raise their children in the Truth. I have a passion to see Biblical discipleship being practiced in families, that parents and children would have, not just a parent-child relationship, but a friendship in Christ.

Q: What is one of your favorite attributes of Christ and how does it impact your life?

I love that Jesus Christ is the sovereign God - completely in control over everything that happened in His life, but He chose to lay down His life for us. He says in John 10: "I lay down My life that I may take it again. No one takes it from Me, but I lay it down of Myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again." (John 10:17-18) Jesus knew what awaited Him - betrayal, false accusations, beatings, crucifixion and death - but He went forward anyway. Later when He was arrested and brought before Pilate, Pilate said to Him, "Are You not speaking to me? Do You not know that I have power to crucify You, and power to release You?" But Jesus answered him, "You could have no power at all against Me unless it had been given you from above." (John 19:10-11) How great was His love for us that He would choose to lay down His life! *

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these are a few of my favorite things: peanut butter and chocolate rock-topped mountains spring and the new life it brings summer evenings and lying under the stars reading good books discussing theology and Biblical themes taking walks at sunrise worshiping God with brothers and sisters in Christ spending time with "sisters" being with my family - especially my adorable nephew!

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"Perhaps some future day, Lord, Thy strong hand will lead me to a place where I must stand - utterly alone. Alone, O gracious love, but for Thee. I shall be satisfied if I can see - Jesus Only. I do not know Thy plans for years to come, My spirit finds its perfect home - sufficiency. Lord, all my desire is before Thee now, lead on, no matter where, no matter what, I trust in Thee."

-Elisabeth Elliot

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A Semester at Ellerslie wi! E"c and Leslie Ludy JOIN US IN COLORADO!

A MESSAGE FROM ERIC & LESLIE: The Ellerslie semester-long intensive training program combines powerful Biblical training with a set-apart, spiritually-rich environment, tailormade for cultivating intimacy with Christ and becoming equipped for world-impacting Christian service.

It’s a life-changing experience designed to super-charge your spiritual walk, ground you in a Gospel worldview, give you an unshakeable passion for God’s Word, and prepare you for a lifestyle of Kingdom work.

We would count it a privilege to

upcoming sessions:

2011 Summer:

June 13 - August 13

2011 FALL: October 8 - December 11

2012 Winter/Spring: February 11 - April 15

personally invest into your spiritual life through this program!

a$ly at:

www.ellerslie.com

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OUR STAFF’S

RECOMMENDED

GOOD READS.

Photography by Jade Valcarcel

Leslie recommends:

Oswald Chambers - Abandoned to God

by David McCasland

This is a truly remarkable, inspiring story of Oswaldʼs transformation from a self-focused young man to a Christ-built warrior for the Kingdom of God. It captures the essence of his life and legacy. It is beautifully written, easy to read, and inspires me toward a life of complete surrender to Jesus Christ.

It also details his God-written love story with his wife, Biddy - what a great picture of Christ-centered romance. A wonderful, refreshing and challenging biography!

Annie recommends:

MARRIAGE TO A DIFFICULT MAN

by Elizabeth Dodds

While the title of this book may be unappealing, I have fallen in love with Jonathan and Sarah Edwards. Their love story has been such an inspiration to me in catching vision for the high calling of being a Godly wife to a man with a mighty calling, and in being yet another testimony of how beautiful our God can make earthly romance if He is at the center.

Youʼll be simply captivated by how Jonathan describes first seeing his future wife-to-be and youʼll share in Sarahʼs journey of the real-life challenges of their radical call to serve the Almighty. There are romantic horseback rides, housing enemy soldiers, tender moments with their children, and a line of descendants that testify to what can happen with Christ Jesus as the corner stone of family.

"Does it make sense to pray for guidance about the future if we are not obeying in the thing that lies before us today? How many momentous events in Scripture depended on one person's seemingly small act of obedience! Rest assured: Do what God tells you to do now, and, depend upon it, you will be shown what to do next."Â - Elisabeth Elliot, Quest for Love: True Stories of Passion & Purity

inthenextissue Time Wasters, Part Five: Redeeming Your Time (Making Every Moment Count) Standing for Life How you can make a difference in the abortion crisis Ten Things to Do Before You Get Married Set Apart Summer Style How to dress with dignity in hot weather!

Soli Deo Gloria