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Pearls of Wisdom for Abundant Life https://www.pearlsofwisdomforabundantlife.com/ Mon, 28 Feb 2022 21:52:20 +0000 en-CA hourly 1 Spiritual Readiness https://www.pearlsofwisdomforabundantlife.com/spiritual-readiness/ Mon, 28 Feb 2022 19:00:58 +0000 https://www.pearlsofwisdomforabundantlife.com/?p=205448 These words spoken by Jesus Christ, challenge believers to stay alert, knowing that Jesus will return to earth suddenly and unexpectedly. His return will take unbelievers by surprise, just as a thief’s visit takes a homeowner by surprise and is a frightening event. The apostle, Paul, also told the Thessalonian believers that the day of […]

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Black woman praying in red dress in forest

These words spoken by Jesus Christ, challenge believers to stay alert, knowing that Jesus will return to earth suddenly and unexpectedly. His return will take unbelievers by surprise, just as a thief’s visit takes a homeowner by surprise and is a frightening event. The apostle, Paul, also told the Thessalonian believers that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night (1 Thessalonians 5:2)

Thus, one should consider what it means to be a believer: What do you believe? Do your daily thoughts, motives and actions reflect bible-based beliefs? More importantly, are you living in such a way as to demonstrate your conviction that Jesus Christ could return any day now?

Jesus’ words further admonish us not to delay in preparing for His return, but rather hasten toward spiritual readiness. This means guarding against:

* sin, the lusts of the flesh, and the cares of this life, lest they bring a sleepiness upon us, so the day of the Lord come upon us unawares

* Satan and his temptations, who goes about seeking whom he may devour

* Satan’s agents and false teachers, who lie in wait to deceive

As the evil of modern times increases, we ought to be wishing and waiting for the coming of Christ. Those who are ready will enter with Him into the marriage chamber, and partake of the supper of the Lamb.

Finally, let’s briefly examine our post photo: While the red of the sister’s dress may attract our attention, brighten our mood and draw our approval because she is not exposed, it is her prayer posture that is most notable. A heart that desires spiritual readiness along with actions that further that desire are invaluable on our Christian journey.

Consider that an unclothed person inside their house is not prepared for a sudden visitor or to rush out in an emergency. Staying clothed, in a spiritual sense, means believers need to be careful about their behaviour (Ephesians 5:8; 1 John 2:28).

~Blessed [are] they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled. (Matthew 5:6)

Profile Photo Andrea P. Kelly is a disciple of Jesus Christ, having started her faith journey in October, 1998 when she was baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Andrea is also a Lawyer and Notary Public at Andrea Kelly Law, called to the Ontario bar in 2001 with practice focus in Estate Planning and Administration. Her battle and victory over rheumatoid arthritis using natural health alternatives was a pivotal, life changing experience. Andrea`s desire to help people find solutions to some of life`s problems, including support for health and faith-related matters, was birthed as Pearls of Wisdom.

Whereas Andrea spent the first part of her career helping people to die well, she now wants to help people to live well.

 

 

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Be Ye Transformed! https://www.pearlsofwisdomforabundantlife.com/be-ye-transformed/ Thu, 03 Feb 2022 19:00:54 +0000 https://www.pearlsofwisdomforabundantlife.com/?p=205438 Transformation is the inward change of character of a disciple. It can also be said that it is an alteration of the mind which reflects on how we live, including our outward appearance, behaviour and speech. As such, it is an intriguing concept that challenges our understanding. Though it includes change—it is not just one […]

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Transformation is the inward change of character of a disciple. It can also be said that it is an alteration of the mind which reflects on how we live, including our outward appearance, behaviour and speech. As such, it is an intriguing concept that challenges our understanding. Though it includes change—it is not just one change; it is not just instantaneous change or once and for all change; and the changes that take place are not just observable with the senses. In fact, transformation encompasses:

  1. several changes;
  2. gradual changes over the lifetime of the disciple during their walk with the Lord;
  3. changes that are observable by onlookers as well as the disciple themselves; and
  4. changes that are “hidden”, taking place inside of the heart and mind of the disciple.

True godly transformation results in God’s likeness and image. Furthermore, the mind and life of a disciple can be changed, regardless of the worldly trend. Romans 12:2 instructs us not to conform to the world’s pattern and system, which is strikingly different from God’s Kingdom. When you are shaped by the pattern of the world, you will eventually look like the world and the ways of the world influence you.

The truth is that we are always evolving as time passes—we develop emotionally, spiritually, mentally and physically over time.  The question that every disciple must determine by their actions is whether they will evolve to look: a. more like Jesus—that is thinking, behaving and looking like a citizen of his kingdom OR b. more like a citizen of the world.

In order to look increasingly like Jesus, the actions every disciple must do are what I refer to as the “Homework”: Prayer, fasting and studying God’s Word. This is nothing revolutionary—what many would call the basics of Christian living, yet a challenge for the best of us. This is, in part, because we’re in a spiritual battle, wrestling not against flesh and blood (Ephesians 6:12). However, the Bible advises us that if we resist the devil, he will flee (James 4:7). Thus, every disciple must strive to consistently do the Homework. It is a daily choice that we must make, bearing in mind that the kind of transformation we will have depends upon it. We should also go one step further to practice the Word of God.  In this regard, the Bible admonishes us to be a doer of the Word, not just a hearer (James 1:23, 25 * Joshua 1:8 * Deuteronomy 6:3)

The Word of God (the Bible) and the Holy Spirit are instrumental to the transformation process. In fact, the Word of God is God Himself. Transformation happens when we spend time in God’s Word, pondering it both day and night, thereby allowing it to shape our thinking and renew our minds. God’s word is “living” because inside of it lies His Spirit. Thus, by allowing the living word of God to regularly permeate our minds, we can be transformed into God’s image and likeness. In essence, we must allow the Word of God to dwell richly in us for we cannot be transformed if we don’t fill our hearts and minds with God’s words. In this way, we will begin to think, see and feel the mind of God so that we do the things that please Him.

Profile Photo Andrea P. Kelly is a disciple of Jesus Christ, having started her faith journey in October, 1998 when she was baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Andrea is also a Lawyer and Notary Public at Andrea Kelly Law, called to the Ontario bar in 2001 with practice focus in Estate Planning and Administration. Her battle and victory over rheumatoid arthritis using natural health alternatives was a pivotal, life changing experience. Andrea`s desire to help people find solutions to some of life`s problems, including support for health and faith-related matters, was birthed as Pearls of Wisdom.

Whereas Andrea spent the first part of her career helping people to die well, she now wants to help people to live well.

 

 

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Kingdom Principles: Chinese Soccer’s Tattoo Ban https://www.pearlsofwisdomforabundantlife.com/tattoo-symbolism-messaging/ Wed, 12 Jan 2022 19:00:02 +0000 https://www.pearlsofwisdomforabundantlife.com/?p=205431 An article outlining China’s recent ban on tattoos for national team footballers (i.e. soccer players) raises some interesting concepts and questions worth considering, especially for Christians. Positive Spirit & A Good Example In prohibiting tattoos, the General Administration of Sport of China (GAS) recently stated that National teams at all levels “will fully demonstrate the […]

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An article outlining China’s recent ban on tattoos for national team footballers (i.e. soccer players) raises some interesting concepts and questions worth considering, especially for Christians.

Positive Spirit & A Good Example

In prohibiting tattoos, the General Administration of Sport of China (GAS) recently stated that National teams at all levels “will fully demonstrate the positive spirit of Chinese football players” and “set a good example for society”. Here, one might ask why is sporting tattoos during a football match (or practice) a demonstration of negative spirit? What is negative about tattoos?

How do tattoos set a bad example for society? What are good messages for society and how can football players demonstrate them?

The article went on to state that players wearing tattoos will not be recruited.

Influence

The GAS sees that there is something “ideological, political and educational” about wearing tattoos. In other words, one is teaching, influencing and guiding people when wearing them. A related viewpoint is that people wearing them essentially make themselves a human billboard that promotes, advertises, markets, and influences something…

On this point, Christians should ask themselves: Does my adornment demonstrate the nation/kingdom that I love, adore, and have allegiance to? (Matthew 6:33 * Matthew 10:7 * Matthew 13:43 * Luke 17:21 * Galatians 2:20 * 1 Peter 2:9)

Mission, Responsibility & Honour

The article goes on to say that strengthening the “patriotic education” of players would “enhance the sense of mission, responsibility and honour”, as well as create a national team “capable of conquering and fighting well, with excellent style of play”.

Thus, the GAS is focusing on the influence of tattoos and what their absence could accomplish. GAS’ description actually sounds like what should be the ideals, goal and ambition of every Christian: Specifically, Christians should have a strong sense of mission, responsibility and honour (Genesis 1:27 * Matthew 10:8 * Matthew 28:19-20 * Acts 1:8 * Mark 16:17-18 * Luke 9:1-2 * 2 Timothy 2:21).

Furthermore, we should want to create a national or Kingdom team (locally and globally) capable of conquering and fighting well with excellent style of play (Deuteronomy 20:1-4 * Psalm 144:1-2 * Zachariah 10:5 * Ephesians 6:10-18 * 2 Corinthians 10:4 * Romans 8:37 * 1 Timothy 6:12).

Symbolism & Messaging

Though the connection between tattoos and nationalist ideals is debatable, there is no question that tattoos are symbols that convey messages–after all, that is the reason people wear them.

Thus, the question for every believer who wears tattoos (or is thinking of wearing them) is: Do they embody the messaging that you intend? Do they promote the Kingdom that you represent? What messages are onlookers and unbelievers receiving, regardless of your intentions? For some Christians, the answers to these questions depends on the size, location, colouring and imagery of the tattoos. For others, the answers will result in a firm decision against wearing them at all.

Profile Photo Andrea P. Kelly is a disciple of Jesus Christ, having started her faith journey in October, 1998 when she was baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Andrea is also a Lawyer and Notary Public at Andrea Kelly Law, called to the Ontario bar in 2001 with practice focus in Estate Planning and Administration. Her battle and victory over rheumatoid arthritis using natural health alternatives was a pivotal, life changing experience. Andrea`s desire to help people find solutions to some of life`s problems, including support for health and faith-related matters, was birthed as Pearls of Wisdom.

Whereas Andrea spent the first part of her career helping people to die well, she now wants to help people to live well.

 

 

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Cultivating Joy https://www.pearlsofwisdomforabundantlife.com/cultivating-joy/ Mon, 06 Sep 2021 18:00:08 +0000 https://www.pearlsofwisdomforabundantlife.com/?p=205409   Our mental and spiritual health are increasingly threatened in today’s world. Thus, our ability to successfully cultivate joy at will has become critically important. Our photo quote is essentially emphasizing the role of focus and perspective in mental as well as spiritual well being. As many spiritual texts and teachers advise, what we focus […]

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Three Young Women Laughing Amongst Sunflowers

 

Our mental and spiritual health are increasingly threatened in today’s world. Thus, our ability to successfully cultivate joy at will has become critically important. Our photo quote is essentially emphasizing the role of focus and perspective in mental as well as spiritual well being. As many spiritual texts and teachers advise, what we focus upon becomes larger. Thus, if we focus upon that which is true, honest, just, pure, lovely and of good report [Philippians 4:8], as well as allow those things to inform our perspective, we are certain to experience joy, hope, faith and peace. Even in the worst of circumstances, a mind trained to see the positive(s), that is the “silver linings” of a situation, will always find something about which to be grateful, which in turn, brings peace and contentment.

Joy is what happens to us when we allow ourselves to recognize how good things really are.

~Marianne Williamson

I write in a Journal of Gratitude (JOG) every morning. As a result, by the time I hit the sidewalk for my daily walk, I’m very often on top of the world, bursting with energy, vigor and excitement. I’m ready to exchange pleasantries with my neighbours and happy for nice weather, a healthy mind, ability to exercise, tasks completed the previous day, a new day to do new things, etc. This is because keeping a JOG helps me to focus on all that is good in my life, though my life is far from perfect. Despite the failures, disappointments and hardships, I experience so much joy because I cultivate it, including through the JOG.

She found joy and wonder in every little thing. And joy and wonder always found her.

~Katrina Myer

 Recognizing and appreciating little things increases one’s joy. Its basically a cumulative effect. The cool thing about it is that the little things you appreciate will be different from those that I appreciate. As I may have mentioned, there have been times when I’m annoyed that nature calls in the middle of the night, breaking a good sleep session. Then I remember to be thankful that my kidneys are working well. I’m thankful for each task accomplished, that I can walk, when I get a parking spot, that I have pens and paper, that I can read and write….I recognize that not everyone has these things. Thus, I’m able to appreciate my wealth, and thereby, experience true joy. I’m also creating room in my heart as well as in my life for more things for which to be grateful and that are on their way.

Find out what gives you joy and do it.

In times of negative emotions or mental state -whether stress, sadness, confusion, anger—being able to cultivate joy is even more important. I sometimes refer to this as being able to “self-medicate”. We’re all individuals with different “joy medications” that work for us. Some find peace, harmony and fulfillment in:

* soft, classical music

* spiritual practices like yoga, prayer or meditation

* faith-based scriptures

* laughing with friends or family

* wise counsel

* journaling

* physical activities like walking, boating, hiking,

* drives in the country

* giving to people

* cooking

* reading

Obviously, this list is not exhaustive and our choice of “medication” will depend on taste, personality, culture, family background, etc. The point is to be ready to quickly implement your “joy medication(s)” when moments of despair happen. Moreover, you should proactively and consistently practice your chosen joy medication(s), such that the majority of your life is spent in peace and contentment, with moments of elation and excitement.

There is a calmness to a life lived in gratitude, a quiet joy. ~ Ralph H. Blum

 

Profile Photo Andrea P. Kelly is a Lawyer and Notary Public at www.AndreaKellyLaw.com  with practice focus in Estate Planning and Administration, including wills, estates, trusts and powers of attorney. Her battle and victory over rheumatoid arthritis using natural health alternatives was a pivotal, life changing experience. Andrea`s desire to help people find solutions to life`s problems, particularly those suffering from chronic illnesses, was birthed as www.PearlsOfWisdomForAbundantLife.com. Whereas she spent the first part of her career helping people to die well, she now wants to help people to live well.

 

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Simple But Healthy Food Prep! https://www.pearlsofwisdomforabundantlife.com/simple-but-healthy-food-preparation/ Thu, 26 Aug 2021 18:27:19 +0000 https://www.pearlsofwisdomforabundantlife.com/?p=205394 On my journey to living a healthy lifestyle, I`ve realized that I`m on a path of constant discovery and tweaking. Many times, I`ve found a tasty but healthy meal, but don’t end up making it on a regular basis. Eventually, I understand that its because it takes too many ingredients, and therefore time, to prepare. […]

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Bowl of Salad

On my journey to living a healthy lifestyle, I`ve realized that I`m on a path of constant discovery and tweaking. Many times, I`ve found a tasty but healthy meal, but don’t end up making it on a regular basis. Eventually, I understand that its because it takes too many ingredients, and therefore time, to prepare. After some thought, I then create a simplified version.

EVEN SALADS CAN BE A CHALLENGE

For example, I love salads but they can be a pain to prepare given all of the chopping of fruits and vegetables that can be involved. At one point I was chopping and including 8-10 ingredients for a single meal with about 6 seasonings and spices, as well as 6 liquids for dressing!!! It was delicious but not sustainable for my busy lifestyle and schedule. I`d usually drop off after a couple of weeks, resorting to not-so-healthy alternatives because they`re available and faster.

SIMPLIFIED SALAD

I`ve now whittled it down to just buying chopped field greens from the grocery store that I throw into a large bowl (my salads are usually a meal not an appetizer). I chop some tomatoes AND an apple OR cucumbers, then add a protein—if I`m not doing a vegan period, then it will be grilled or baked salmon OR some sardines from a tin. I`ve recently found some really tasty sardines that are packed in spring water (I try to avoid sardines or other seafood sitting in chemicals or preservatives, usually identifiable because they have long, difficult-to-pronounce names). Occasionally, I will add some chicken to the salad.  When pursuing periods of veganism, I will just have two veggie burger patties on the side, particularly ones that have black beans in them for the protein. Sometimes I`ll add a falafel burger patty to the salad.

BASIC DRESSING

 Like many, one of my criteria for healthy eating is ensuring my food and condiments have recognizable, “whole food” ingredients. Needless to say, I’m not a big fan of store-bought dressings, including because I very often end up with painful joints because one or more ingredients don’t agree with me (I have food sensitivities related to rheumatoid arthritis). Now, my dressing may not be what you would consider “simple” but I know what’s in there and that it won’t hurt me.  In terms of complexity, trust me, I’ve come a long way…

Liquids

2 tbsp apple cider vinegar

1 tbsp of olive oil

1 tbsp of honey

Seasonings

½ tsp of garlic powder

5 dashes of paprika

3 dashes of cayenne pepper

I usually eyeball the seasonings, so I suggest you just add for your taste preference.

I LIKE IT CREAMY!

How do I easily add a creamy element to my salad that is normally achieved by traditional dressings like Caesar, Thousand Island or Poppy Seed??? Well…I add a bit of water to some garlic and onion hummus from the health store (all ingredients are recognizable) and Ta Da! There is my simple, delicious salad!

You can obviously switch up any of those ingredients but the trick is that for day-to-day food prep, keep your ingredient list as short as possible and save the more elaborate dishes for special occasions…or when you’re in the mood and have more time…!

 

Profile Photo Andrea P. Kelly is a Lawyer and Notary Public at www.AndreaKellyLaw.com  with practice focus in Estate Planning and Administration, including wills, estates, trusts and powers of attorney. Her battle and victory over rheumatoid arthritis using natural health alternatives was a pivotal, life changing experience. Andrea`s desire to help people find solutions to life`s problems, particularly those suffering from chronic illnesses, was birthed as www.PearlsOfWisdomForAbundantLife.com. Whereas she spent the first part of her career helping people to die well, she now wants to help people to live well.

 

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The Lord Looketh On The Heart https://www.pearlsofwisdomforabundantlife.com/the-lord-looketh-on-the-heart/ Fri, 06 Aug 2021 18:00:49 +0000 https://www.pearlsofwisdomforabundantlife.com/?p=205367 During a recent email exchange with Pastor Patrick Groves, missionary to Sudan and Kenya, he recollected some wisdom received from the late Pastor F.W. McKenzie. Pastor McKenzie would often quote the scripture “man looketh on the outward appearance but God looketh at the heart.” According to Pastor Groves, Pastor McKenzie`s perspective was unique as he […]

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Woman looking upward with eyes closed, ocean behind her

During a recent email exchange with Pastor Patrick Groves, missionary to Sudan and Kenya, he recollected some wisdom received from the late Pastor F.W. McKenzie. Pastor McKenzie would often quote the scripture “man looketh on the outward appearance but God looketh at the heart.” According to Pastor Groves, Pastor McKenzie`s perspective was unique as he used that scriptural principle to teach that both the heart and the outward appearance are important.
 
Since only God can see the heart, men can only tell what is going on in the heart by the outward appearance. Pastor McKenzie would, therefore, often tell the mature saints not to tell new converts how to dress etc. In this regard, Pastor McKenzie said he could only know if what he was teaching was affecting the heart by observing the change in their outward behaviour.
 
This is certainly a profound and noteworthy perspective.
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Digestion Starts With The Eyes https://www.pearlsofwisdomforabundantlife.com/digestion-starts-with-the-eyes/ Thu, 05 Aug 2021 18:00:31 +0000 https://www.pearlsofwisdomforabundantlife.com/?p=205362   Individual eating goals differ amongst the world’s population for various socio-economic and cultural reasons: Some of us simply want to satisfy our hunger pangs; some of us want to eat nutritiously; and for others of us, the food and table presentation matters immensely. Those who care about the presentation and aesthetics of the food […]

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Table with food on it

 

Individual eating goals differ amongst the world’s population for various socio-economic and cultural reasons: Some of us simply want to satisfy our hunger pangs; some of us want to eat nutritiously; and for others of us, the food and table presentation matters immensely. Those who care about the presentation and aesthetics of the food may seem shallow but there is a health reason supporting this objective.
 
Specifically, your digestive enzymes start to work or are produced when you see your food; the more colours there are and the more vibrant it is, the more your body prepares to digest it, says Radhi Devlukia [Timestamp: 7:00].
 
I can attest to this as on many occasions, my mouth has literally watered in anticipation of putting a delicious-looking meal into my mouth, and in turn into an empty, hungry belly. It actually puts new meaning to the concept of “mouth-watering”, savoury food. So cheers to great-looking food!…Bon appetite! 
Profile Photo Andrea P. Kelly is a Lawyer and Notary Public at www.AndreaKellyLaw.com  with practice focus in Estate Planning and Administration, including wills, estates, trusts and powers of attorney. Her battle and victory over rheumatoid arthritis using natural health alternatives was a pivotal, life changing experience. Andrea`s desire to help people find solutions to life`s problems, particularly those suffering from chronic illnesses, was birthed as www.PearlsOfWisdomForAbundantLife.com. Whereas she spent the first part of her career helping people to die well, she now wants to help people to live well.

 

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The Bare Arms Controversy in B.C. Legislature https://www.pearlsofwisdomforabundantlife.com/the-bare-arms-controversy-in-b-c-legislature/ Fri, 21 May 2021 20:03:43 +0000 https://www.pearlsofwisdomforabundantlife.com/?p=205339 In March, 2019, the British Columbia Legislature found itself in the midst of controversy over women’s right to bare arms. Some interesting observations can be made from the reports. The Dress Code Policy First, the legislature has a policy that men and women must wear “suitable business attire.”  The existence of a policy not only […]

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Woman wearing black sleeveless dress

In March, 2019, the British Columbia Legislature found itself in the midst of controversy over women’s right to bare arms. Some interesting observations can be made from the reports.

The Dress Code Policy

First, the legislature has a policy that men and women must wear “suitable business attire.”  The existence of a policy not only outlines the authority’s intention in writing, thereby lessening the possibility of confusion and arbitrary application of the principles, but it clearly states that it is to be applied to both men and women. What is “suitable business attire” was also outlined clearly in the policy for both genders.

Nevertheless, it was reported that female staff are not opposed to a dress code but they are concerned about a lack of clear rules and guidelines. Still, as the policy appears to be clear, it is likely more a case of disliking the rules and guidelines rather than them being non-existent or unclear.

Can Men Bare Arms, Too, Then?

According to the policy, neither men nor women are to dawn bare arms, a fact that seems to escape the attention of those criticizing the policy as being biased against women. In his tweet about the dispute, Ian McAndrew justifiably pointed out “If women no longer have to dress in a professional manner, I hope that the new dress code will also allow men to go sleeveless and wear muscle shirts instead of suits and ties; fair is fair!”

Societal Changes

A comment was also made that “Society changes as we go forward in time. But sometimes there are things that need to be kept in tradition. Proper decorum and dress in the Speaker’s corridor and within the chamber is something that is being upheld at this point.” Still, the protesters insist that the policy needs to be modernized. Here, we note that God and His Word do not change [Hebrews 13:8 * Malachi 3:6 * James 1:17 * Numbers 23:19 * Isaiah 40:8 * Psalm 102:25-27 * Psalm 119:89 * Psalm 33:11 * Psalm 90:2]. Thus, His principles regarding modesty has not and will not change.

Protest

The existence of the reported “protest” is somewhat concerning. In essence, it challenged the Legislature’s authority to adhere to its dress code but was also steeped in individualism rather than cohesive corporate professionalism.

Zeal for Group Identity

I recall in the early days of my Christian journey being zealous towards the national principle in Esther 3:8 (though I developed it before reading Esther). I marveled at the notion of being a visibly distinct people/nation–like orthodox Jews, Muslims, Amish, and certain other faith groups.  I simply believed that it would be easier for us if we all said the same thing regarding modesty, including for witnessing, for raising our children together (i.e. avoiding parents of different households saying different things but their children are friends with each other), for strength in numbers at school, workplace or other parts of society.

Unfortunately, I’ve had to learn over the years that we don’t all have the same convictions for various reasons. Thus, it can be a challenge for church leaders to apply biblical principles, counsel and guide with so many convictions and interpretations in a congregation.

Respectful Questions

Still, any questions and concerns posed to leadership should be made respectfully, with an open heart sincerely seeking understanding and desirous of honouring God. Questions towards revelation and enlightenment should also be posed to God, Himself, in prayer. Furthermore, unity and oneness are to be earnestly pursued. As the Church is a theocracy, rather than a democracy, “protest” is generally speaking, inappropriate.

Modesty Includes Humility

Finally, I note some reported statements over the dispute which lack the humility of which true modesty is comprised:

“I think it is worth having a conversation about what is particularly  unprofessional about short sleeves.”

“…women kind of felt we were being told our arms were not acceptable in a   professional context, which seems really ridiculous…”

“One of my staff was told by the leg assembly to wear a slip under her dress as it was clinging to her legs as she walked. Heaven forbid people realize she has limbs under her skirt! The women in this building are here to work, not dress for outdated rules,”

“The notion of telling women how to dress is indeed crazy…they are all capable of making decisions on how they dress.”

This very short video report on the dispute also illustrates the “heart” sentiments of protesters.

Sample Letter

Those on my email list received a sample letter to church staff to address clothing issues in church. If you wish to receive the sample letter, subscribe to my email list here.

Profile Photo Andrea P. Kelly is a disciple of Jesus Christ, having started her faith journey in October, 1998 when she was baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Andrea strives to make disciples in obedience to the Great Commission and has held church leadership positions in Evangelism, as well as Administration/Operations.

Andrea is also a Lawyer and Notary Public at Andrea Kelly Law, called to the Ontario bar in 2001 with practice focus in Estate Planning and Administration. Her battle and victory over rheumatoid arthritis using natural health alternatives was a pivotal, life changing experience. Andrea`s desire to help people find solutions to some of life`s problems, including support for health and faith-related matters, was birthed as Pearls of Wisdom.

Whereas Andrea spent the first part of her career helping people to die well, she now wants to help people to live well.

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

Want more Pearls? Check out our FREE “Teaching Biblical Modesty” Guide

from our Bible Treasures Series

Also, join our Pearls of Wisdom Faith Community at: www.Facebook.com/PearlsOfWisdomFaith  -and-

www.Pinterest.com/PearlsOfWisdomFaith for additional support on your faith journey.

 

 

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5 Steps for Divine Guidance https://www.pearlsofwisdomforabundantlife.com/5-steps-for-divine-guidance/ Mon, 19 Apr 2021 16:24:24 +0000 https://www.pearlsofwisdomforabundantlife.com/?p=205324   We discussed in our last post that modesty is unto Jesus Christ and that He is our main guide not only for modesty, but for all Christian living issues.  A disciple who wants to know God`s desire or thoughts on an issue, should be encouraged to do the following [again, this list is not […]

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Person look up at star-filled universe

 

We discussed in our last post that modesty is unto Jesus Christ and that He is our main guide not only for modesty, but for all Christian living issues.  A disciple who wants to know God`s desire or thoughts on an issue, should be encouraged to do the following [again, this list is not exhaustive]:

  1. Bear in mind that sanctification is a process. In starting our Christian journey, we essentially joined the University of Jesus Christ. We will be life-long students, growing and ever learning from Him, through life experience, teachings, sitting in His presence, conversing with Him and more. Remember that conversation entails listening—we must listen for God’s voice and instruction on any given issue, as well as contributing our own thoughts, concerns and questions.
  1. Nurture your own curiosity and desire for learning; if you’re not already curious about faith issues, then ask God for curiosity.
  1. Ask God for revelation and enlightenment. I was curious about modesty issues– especially church standards- and earnestly wanted to understand. When I asked church members questions, they answered as best they could. It wasn’t easy being questioned by a law student, yet they rose to the challenge and for that, I am grateful. Moreover, when I asked God my questions, not only did He enlighten, but He revealed and convicted!

This quote illustrates how simple it is to start the process of receiving wisdom, knowledge and understanding: “You don’t have to close your eyes or even look up to find an answer. You just have to want an answer to come, and then ask”. ~Brent M. Jones.

  1. Say affirmations. Affirmations are positive statements of our desires which, when said repeatedly, shape our thoughts, understanding and eventually our reality. When we state them in the present tense, it is as if we are calling the desired thing out of the spiritual realm into the physical realm.

A powerful practice is to turn scriptures into daily affirmations. For example, one that I state daily is: “This book of the law does not depart out of my mouth; but I meditate therein day and night, that I mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then I make my way prosperous, and then I have good success.” [Joshua 1:8].

The quote in the photograph for this article is also a good daily affirmation.

  1. Meditate on God`s Word. Spend as much time as possible reading and meditating in God’s Word. God is His Word and His Word is God [John 1:1]. As you read and meditate on it, it transforms your mind, and hence your thoughts. The steps above act as a foundation for this priority action.

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Want more Pearls? Check out our FREE “Teaching Biblical Modesty” Guide from our Bible Treasures Series.

Also, join our Pearls of Wisdom Faith Community at: www.Facebook.com/PearlsOfWisdomFaith  -and-

www.Pinterest.com/PearlsOfWisdomFaith for additional support on your faith journey.

The post 5 Steps for Divine Guidance appeared first on Pearls of Wisdom for Abundant Life.

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Modesty Starts With A Submitted Heart https://www.pearlsofwisdomforabundantlife.com/modesty-starts-with-a-submitted-heart/ Sun, 18 Apr 2021 01:00:26 +0000 https://www.pearlsofwisdomforabundantlife.com/?p=205320 What is Modesty? There are a few basic definitions of Modesty: the quality of not being too proud or confident about yourself or your abilities [Merriam Webster] propriety in dress, speech, or conduct [Merriam Webster]; dress and behaviour that is intended to avoid causing sexual feelings in other people. [Collins Dictionary]; lack of excesses or […]

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Man Kneeling On Beach Praying, in Front of Water

What is Modesty?

There are a few basic definitions of Modesty:

  • the quality of not being too proud or confident about yourself or your abilities [Merriam Webster]
  • propriety in dress, speech, or conduct [Merriam Webster]; dress and behaviour that is intended to avoid causing sexual feelings in other people. [Collins Dictionary];
  • lack of excesses or pretensions; moderation [Collins Dictionary]

A Heart Issue

Each of these definitions shows that modesty is fundamentally a heart issue, meaning it has to do with one`s attitude, thoughts, ideas, intentions, and perspective (let`s call them our “Thoughts”). Our Thoughts are largely shaped by our culture, experience, education, family background, values, relationships and more.

Modesty Is Unto The Lord

For a disciple of Jesus Christ, any desire or ambition to be modest should be unto Jesus. He is Lord, God and Saviour. Moreover, He wants a personal relationship with us. It follows, then, that Jesus Himself is our main guide not only for modesty, but for all Christian living issues. He has innumerable ways to guide us as we will see and explore, including church teachings, media messages, relationships and more. However, it is critical that we be an actual disciple of Jesus Christ—a follower, a student–one who seeks, knocks and asks of the Lord (Matthew7:7-8) with sincerity and desire–not just to learn, but to please Him.

Your Thoughts Are Important

Jesus wants to teach and fellowship with us more than we can imagine. He is not only concerned about our Thoughts but He desires to shape them and it is He, that will ultimately judge them. We know this because biblical scripture contains numerous admonishments about our thought life. Consider the following scriptures [this list is far from exhaustive]:

  • This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success. [Joshua 1:8]
  • Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ; [1 Peter 1:13]
  • Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. [Matthew 22:37]
  • I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin. [Romans 7:25]
  • Serving the Lord with all humility of mind, and with many tears, and temptations, which befell me by the lying in wait of the Jews: [Acts 20:19]
  • Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer. [Psalm 19:14]

Scripture demonstrates the critical importance of our mind in serving God because He knows that we are the sum of our thoughts–if He has your mind, He has you! In essence, true modesty requires a converted heart [Ezekiel 36:26; Romans 2:29], a transformed mind [Romans 12:2] and submission to the leading of the Spirit [Romans 8:14; 1 Corinthian 6:19].

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Want more Pearls? Check out our FREE “Teaching Biblical Modesty” Guide

from our Bible Treasures Series

Also, join our Pearls of Wisdom Faith Community at: www.Facebook.com/PearlsOfWisdomFaith  -and-

www.Pinterest.com/PearlsOfWisdomFaith for additional support on your faith journey.

The post Modesty Starts With A Submitted Heart appeared first on Pearls of Wisdom for Abundant Life.

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