What are you doing to prepare yourself? - A practical "heads up" look at the future.

[BroTrevor]

Ok everyone, I've had some thoughts on this before, and reading how some wouldn't send their kids to public school (in the homeschool thread) started me to thinking on this.

So I ask, what are you doing to prepare yourself for the day you are out on your own, and perhaps married, and even later perhaps children.

Being at the stage of life where I have my oldest son beginning kindergarten this year, I know somewhat of what it is like to homeschool. I chose to do Abeka video cirriculum because I don't think that I or SisTrev will have 2.5 hours a day to sit with Zion to teach him, mostly due to the baby.

What does that mean? That means homeschool costs just went up about 800%. If I would have just done the books, it would have cost me about 200 or less. With the DVD program to aid

Girls:
So for those planning on getting married, raising a family... what are you doing to prepare yourself for homeschooling your children? Sure you can do the video route like we are, but then are you doing anything to prepare for the increased costs? I figure by the time I have 3 kids in first grade or above, I'll need to budget at LEAST 3K per year for schooling.

How about learning to cook, clean, iron, etc... I've known girls that got married REAL young, and suddenly had to have a crash course in basic cooking, because they had never done it a day in their life. (no, this doesn't consist of heating a frozen dinner in the microwave...)

In short, have you thought about your goals and aspirations for the next 2 - 5 years, where you want to be, and what it will take for you to be there?


Guys:

So, you're thinking you want to be married some day? Do you know how much it costs to live out on your own with a family? What are you doing to prepare yourself so that you can adequately provide for the family you would like to have? College? Journeyman program? Taking over dad's business one day? Anything? A job involving "do you want fries with that?" will probably not support a family adequately.

Have you sat down and looked at houses in your area, how much they will cost and such? Sure you can start out in an apartment, but you'll need a plan to eventually get a house wont you? Knowing how much this will cost, then figure out how much you're going to need to bring home to make a house payment.

How about the whole "spiritual head of the house" part? Do you have your own devotions every day? As a Godly head of the house, you would be responsible for leading your family in devotions one day. You'll have to make decisions based on the Word of God for your family, and be able to be led by Him. If this isn't part of your daily routine now, how do you think it'll all "just come together" after you get married? I tell you, as a married guy, that you will have LESS time for everything after being married, and especially after having children. Are you preparing NOW to be a spiritual leader?


All:

Please understand that I in no way discount God working things out in your life. I just feel that being led NOW in preparing yourself for the future is a smart thing to do. I don't believe God intends for you to sit around on your duff and have you plan on Him dragging you into good things. I really don't think it works that way.

So my advice is to prayerfully consider your future, and what it will take to prepare for your future God given roles.

Perhaps you wont be stuck in an apartment for 6 years listening to your neighbors bass music that way like we were.

Oh, and I wasn't thinking of anyone here specifically when I wrote all that. It's intended to be very general and hopefully thought-provoking.

God Bless!

[God'schild]

this is a very interesting topic........

[redeemed]

What does that mean? That means homeschool costs just went up about 800%. If I would have just done the books, it would have cost me about 200 or less. With the DVD program to aid



lol! bro trevor!!:) wait till he gets to high school!! then the costs with abeka really go up!!:) oh! and i think you'll really like the program:)

i guess to a point i've thought about some stuff. i want to homeschool my kids the traditional way until they get to high and then have them do the abeka dvd (that is, if it's still dvd's and not something else)
as for the cooking, growing up with just a dad, you learn how to cook pretty quickly! lol (yes i am saying that most guys can't cook) i also know how to iron, sew, and clean house. i think in the next few years my goal is going to be to have better charachter and more patience with kids, and also learning how to be frugal when i go grocery shopping and such. (is that the kind of thing you were looking for or did i go totally off subject??)

[HotShot53]

How about learning to cook, clean, iron, etc... I've known girls that got married REAL young, and suddenly had to have a crash course in basic cooking, because they had never done it a day in their life. (no, this doesn't consist of heating a frozen dinner in the microwave...)

Lol, my mom didn't get married that young, but she could not cook at all hardly, other than pumpkin pies... my dad got pretty sick of PB&J pretty quickly ;)

[BroTrevor]

Lol, my mom didn't get married that young, but she could not cook at all hardly, other than pumpkin pies... my dad got pretty sick of PB&J pretty quickly ;)

Girls take note! Do you want your husband to go through this kind of drudgery?

lol

Redeemed, yes, that's the kind of thing I'm glad to hear you have thought over, and that you already have skills you are going to need in "life on your own" Your goals speak well of you.

[God'schild]

i think that it is important that all girls know how to cook and clean when they get married......

Theres a saying
" I can cook and Clean and drive BIG GREEN(John Deer)" I like that saying cause it's true.... maybe not the big green part...

For me i believe if the Lord tarries i will send my children through public school unless they are struggling in public school i will take them out..... I went to public school till the begining(sp??) of grade 10 it was very helpful. I'm glad that my parents sent me through public school and i'm also glad that i took homeschooling for the last 2 years of schooling....

[JoeC]

Guys:

So, you're thinking you want to be married some day? Do you know how much it costs to live out on your own with a family? What are you doing to prepare yourself so that you can adequately provide for the family you would like to have? College? Journeyman program? Taking over dad's business one day? Anything? A job involving "do you want fries with that?" will probably not support a family adequately.

Have you sat down and looked at houses in your area, how much they will cost and such? Sure you can start out in an apartment, but you'll need a plan to eventually get a house wont you? Knowing how much this will cost, then figure out how much you're going to need to bring home to make a house payment.

How about the whole "spiritual head of the house" part? Do you have your own devotions every day? As a Godly head of the house, you would be responsible for leading your family in devotions one day. You'll have to make decisions based on the Word of God for your family, and be able to be led by Him. If this isn't part of your daily routine now, how do you think it'll all "just come together" after you get married? I tell you, as a married guy, that you will have LESS time for everything after being married, and especially after having children. Are you preparing NOW to be a spiritual leader?
I'm workin' on it!

[joris]

So, you're thinking you want to be married some day? uhm, this may be uncertain actually...
do you want the excuse version, the psychological, the emotional or the practical version? I guess for this it's the practical version; I don't know about -- am I even capable of loving (like, after first weeks of infatuation (is that the word?:y10:) have passed, will I actually have courage and dedication to compensate for the rotten properties and patterns?) oh and when assuming the unlikely, that she would love even though I am me, well I don't see me being a father; A father not being able to communicate with it's child? no thanks I had a father like that and I don't want to be similar so unless that thing that's blocking communication is away, no... I don't think so;
so that leaves a lot questions to whether I'd ever get married;

well I don't know; maybe I feel like I'm one who can't be married because of nature, or because of how world crippled me; there is some text about that but I'm not sure where to find it
How about the whole "spiritual head of the house" part? Do you have your own devotions every day?uhm (well assuming all above were fixed) I hope by then Lord let me grow such that this is not hard to me anymore
nowadays bible reading is not so easy for me; I understand the things everyone understands, but I long for deeper, more understanding and revelation, and... well let's say it's really difficult, frustrating to read and - what am I supposed to have learned by that? or - how is that supposed to work out in my life if it clearly has not yet; or even: Here God gives a promise but, practically speaking, why am I not experiencing this promise?? :sad:

[JoeC]

assuming all above were fixed...
Joris, Jesus Christ will provide. He does not call without providing the tools for the labor...cast your cares on him...

Btw, for those of you who are diligent to dedicate time for prayer and Bible reading every day, you have my respect. I'm not there yet--I'd appreciate your prayers on that. Probably why I find myself easy prey to temptation. :(

[blessed]

Wonderful thread Bro T, I do have all the "girls" stuff covered, but as Joe I do have a problem doing the daily devotions daily, always so busy. After exams I am off school for a while, need to put some spiritual things back in order, even though GOd has been gracious to keep me and stand by my side through difficult times even though I have not been giving him enough of my time as I should, I need to rededicate my life and spend more time with him, because after all HE is my reason for living.

Also I do think that a wife needs some sort of spiritual stability, this will be needed in a marriage, men do go through difficult times to and a wife will have to pray him through, know the right things to say and when to say it etc. Girls should also prepare themselves spiritually for marriage because when you husband falls (and it will happen at some time)who are you going to hold on to.

[joris]

Also I do think that a wife needs some sort of spiritual stability, this will be needed in a marriage, men do go through difficult times to and a wife will have to pray him through, know the right things to say and when to say it etcI think uhm; amen :)

[BroTrevor]

Btw, for those of you who are diligent to dedicate time for prayer and Bible reading every day, you have my respect. I'm not there yet--I'd appreciate your prayers on that. Probably why I find myself easy prey to temptation. :(


How'd that one-year bible program go?

[NoahL]

I'd like to share something I heard on the radio today:


An old man lived on a farm in the mountains of eastern Kentucky with his young grandson. Each morning Grandpa was up early sitting at the kitchen table reading his Bible.

His grandson wanted to be just like him and tried to imitate him in every way he could. One day the grandson asked, "Papa, I try to read the Bible just like you but I don't understand it, and what I do understand I forget as soon as I close the book. What good does reading the Bible do?"The Grandfather quietly turned from putting coal in the stove and replied, "Take this coal basket down to the river and bring me back a basket of water." The boy did as he was told, but all the water leaked out before he got back to the house.

The grandfather laughed and said, "You'll have to move a little faster next time," and sent him back to the river with the basket to try again.

This time the boy ran faster, but again the basket was empty before he returned home. Out of breath, he told his grandfather that it was impossible to carry water in a basket, and he went to get a bucket instead.

The old man said, "I don't want a bucket of water; I want a basket of water. You're just not trying hard enough," and he went out the door to watch the boy try again.

At this point, the boy knew it was impossible, but he wanted to show his grandfather that even if he ran as fast as he could, the water would leak out before he got back to the house. The boy again dipped the basket into river and ran hard, but when he reached his grandfather the basket was again empty.

Out of breath, he said, "See Papa, it's useless!"

"So you think it is useless?" The old man said, "Look at the basket."

The boy looked at the basket and for the first time realized that the basket was different. It had been transformed from a dirty old coal basket and was now clean, inside and out.

"Son, that's what happens when you read the Bible. You might not understand or remember everything, but when you read it, you will be changed, inside and out. That is the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives."

[redeemed]

amen!!! i really like that comparison

[God'schild]

i don't know if i will be around that long to have children and send them to school..

God could come anyday, we are so very close to his coming One step and we could be in the rapture.

[jtucker]

i feel this is a great topic to discuss, and think about and plan for i know it's been on my mind ever since i was about 19 though i had no real resources because of the way i was handling my life at the time, that was my reason for not doing things right i was trying to handle things instead of trusting God for all things, and walking according to his word,

this topic reminds me of the scripture that says a prudent man sees evil far off and prepareth for it.

we have to be ready for the evil weither it's marriage kids, college or even a job when it comes our way! not saying they are evil but you get the general point!

[joris]

God could come anyday, we are so very close to his coming One step and we could be in the rapture.heh ofcourse, but the point of the thread is, let's assume for the moment it takes a while longer (no I wouldn't want that either; yes it may be quite true anyway it might well take a while longer)
I think it's too easy to say oh well Lord will be coming to take us home so I don't have to think of future or so...
(not saying that's your reason to say that but - well... you get the idea right?

[EllyMae]

I get what you're saying Joris, and I agree with you. Matthew 25:13 says..."Watch therefore, for we know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh." So, even though I'm sure most of us believe the Bride won't be here much longer, we still have to prepare ourselves if the Lord does tarry.

[God'schild]

I get what you're saying Joris, and I agree with you. Matthew 25:13 says..."Watch therefore, for we know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh." So, even though I'm sure most of us believe the Bride won't be here much longer, we still have to prepare ourselves if the Lord does tarry.

true.!!!
:)

[God'schild]

if i ever get married and have children i will send my children to public school.. I went to public school and i'm glad that my parents put me through public school..

I don't find nothing wrong with public school, i made it through public school with a few trials but God was with me.

i don't have nothing wrong with homeschooling, but for me i would send my children through public school. i see it as a you can testify(sp?) to your school peers whereas when your homeschooled you really don't have the chance to testify(sp?) to your peers..

I'm all for homeschooling..

[Babyruth]

This is a really good topic. I was just listening to a tape of a young people's service here at Cloverdale from 1998. Bro. Barry Coffey was the minister and it was really good. He talked about a lot, but he spent a bit of time focusing on both girls and guys being spiritually and mentally ready for marriage. So many couples fall in love and get married, and are so unprepared for it. He mentioned how the guy needs to have a good job, be able to provide a good house, food, and all the rest of the necessary things. And girls need to know how to cook, clean, do "wife" stuff. But, he also mentioned that the most important thing is for each person to have a steady and faithful walk with the Lord before marriage. It's so important. Then, we just had our church camp and Bro. Tom Rae mentioned that when Cloverdale began, the couples were getting married in their very early 20s, and were ready to. It made me think; almost all the young people old enough to get married are so not mature enough or ready, including me. That made me think more and I realised that although I'm not planning on marriage at the moment, being spiritually ready is so important because it's not just for marriage, it's for the rapture.

Sorry this is so long. It doesn't make much sense, but I thought I'd say something. Hopefully you can understand it, I just got home from camp. We all know what that means, major lack of sleep! :)

[HotShot53]

This is a really good topic. I was just listening to a tape of a young people's service here at Cloverdale from 1998. Bro. Barry Coffey was the minister and it was really good. He talked about a lot, but he spent a bit of time focusing on both girls and guys being spiritually and mentally ready for marriage. So many couples fall in love and get married, and are so unprepared for it. He mentioned how the guy needs to have a good job, be able to provide a good house, food, and all the rest of the necessary things. And girls need to know how to cook, clean, do "wife" stuff. But, he also mentioned that the most important thing is for each person to have a steady and faithful walk with the Lord before marriage. It's so important.

Bro. Barry spoke about that topic at WYR last year, too. He can make it soo funy, too, along with being good....

[joris]

That made me think more and I realised that although I'm not planning on marriage at the moment, being spiritually ready is so important because it's not just for marriage, it's for the rapture.uhm does one become spiritually ready for marriage? what do you really mean there? just wanting to understand it well
Sorry this is so long. It doesn't make much sense, but I thought I'd say something. Hopefully you can understand it, I just got home from camp. We all know what that means, major lack of sleep! :)ah, but it does make sence

[Babyruth]

uhm does one become spiritually ready for marriage? what do you really mean there? just wanting to understand it well
Being spiritually ready for marriage means, at least to me, to have a walk with the Lord. Where one loves God, can't wait to read and listen to the Message and the Bible, continually growing in the Word, etc. Yes, struggles are part of everyone's life, but not struggling with cutting your hair or wearing skirts (for girls) and not struggling with movies, music, etc. Where you have an established walk with the Lord. You can't wait to go to church, and you are mature in the Word, not just starting out on your Christian walk. Able to pray and lead a home and be the spiritual head of a home. That's what it means to me.

[joris]

Being spiritually ready for marriage means, at least to me, to have a walk with the Lord. Where one loves God, can't wait to read and listen to the Message and the Bible, continually growing in the Word, etc. Yes, struggles are part of everyone's life, but not struggling with cutting your hair or wearing skirts (for girls) and not struggling with movies, music, etc. Where you have an established walk with the Lord. You can't wait to go to church, and you are mature in the Word, not just starting out on your Christian walk. Able to pray and lead a home and be the spiritual head of a home. That's what it means to me.yeah I do long for being near God (though I'd long I'd actually experience that, and I know it's my fault as -- it's not His fault), which includes church and prayer (group, and ofcourse private prayer) and... well
said this before but; me being able to pray? ok... sortof; being able to lead a home? no don't see that at all :sad: :think:
(oh and after ? a bit less then three years, I feel as if I am indeed just starting out on Christian walk)

[Babyruth]

Don't worry too much about it. God will prepare you. Just get in the Word, love it, and you will grow.

[collegegirl]

I have always said that I would much rather raise a family than a career.

But until that shows up, I am going to keep occupied with learning. Idle hands, (or minds) are the devil's playground.

I wanted to learn culinary, as I am going to spend a lot of time in the kitchen. (YEHAW!!! thus ----->:chef Thank you so much for my little dude samurai)

But I realized as I have been working that I should do business. I have worked in a family business, and according to the Oedipus complex, (a real theory here) you marry someone like your opposite sex parent. (okay, real English here: Girls, you marry someone like your father. Guys, you marry someone like your mother.) So, why not know business? That way just in case that does happen, I will be prepared to step up by my husband if ever the need be, and pull just as hard as he if that was the case. But if not, I will be at home using my education for the better of my children and my husband, when it comes to food and for the running of the household.

I really want to homeschool. Bro Trevor, try looking for used books, and such, as you can usually get them in good condition for less money. And the good thing about homeschooling is that when you have one set, you can use it over and over and over again. Mom didn't let us write in our books, we used notebooks, and some of those books have seen 4 or more children. Then when they get old enough, I want to teach them the skills that I am learning. Dual-enrollment at college, basically a free education. Two years ahead peoples.

But besides teaching and stuff, there is so much that I want to do with my children, so much to teach them, so much to do with them.

Christian walk...under construction, remodeling, please excuse the dust. Work in progress, please keep to the far right.

Household duties, if you ever think that spaghetti night on your night of dishes with a family of 6 or more is torture, work at a restaurant. You literally will never complain about the amount of dishes again. Ironing, (what is that?) j/k laundry, been doing that since I was taught how to fold laundry. (probably since I was about 8 or 9.) Cleaning, believe it or not, I find it relaxing, and stimulating to see things clean. I get this good feeling when something goes from dirty to sparkling. (maybe that is because of my name, which means housewife/lady/mistress, depending on where you look it up). I get satisfaction out of seeing things in order. (just don't look in my room please. The closet is actually in good shape, well, my side anyways, just the rest of the room...)

Long enough post now.

And tonight is my night of dishes, so I need to get off anyways.

[redeemed]

getting used books probably does help with the money but i don't think that you can with abeka dvd if you are letting them accrediat it. (basically if you're sending them progress reports and tests and that sort of stuff) but i don't know, it might be different in elementary

[Anna]

I agree with collegegirl: I would much rather be home with my children and taking care of everything at home than having a career. However I, too, am in that kinda limbo stage. I am going to school so in case, I never get married, or if I get married and my husband needs some assistance with earning money for our family. I have no problem with working, in fact am a very hard worker, and I will do whatever I can to help my husband and our family.

As far as housework and all that goes, since my mother was a single mom for many years and my other siblings tended to be on the lazy side, I picked up the slack. I can cook and clean and do all that, maybe not with the best of them, cause I'm just not that talented, but I can for sure hold my own. When I get married my husband won't go hungry, unless he's fasting... :)

And I also have that sense of, I guess, joy when something is clean, and also find it relaxing. I can't sleep if things are dirty. My sister, who I used to share a room with, would get annoyed with me, because I had to have the room cleaned before I went to bed. So the light use to bug her...lol...well if she had kept the room clean, I wouldn't have to clean at night, right?

As far as spiritual walk...I don't know anyone who is completely where they want to be with God, I mean we all struggle with different things. I am on the right path, but sometimes find myself taking a turn when I shouldn't but He always brings me back. The important thing is that when/if I get married, the two of us will be able to support each other and pray with the other so that we continually be reminded that God is our Father, and that without Him we would surely be nothing. So I am just turning to God for all the things I go through in life...and hopefully whatever man the Lord has planned for me (if He even does have one), he will do the same.

Ok...I think I answered Bro. Trevor's questions...very thought provoking thread here...

[joris]

As far as spiritual walk...I don't know anyone who is completely where they want to be with Godfirst thought I had when reading that, you may well have a big problem if you think your walk is all great without any problems :y10:
but I don't like that idea all that much :(

[AlanaH]

I agree with Anna completely...
One thing I've noticed is that a lot of people get married either way earlier or way later than they had originally planned...I guess life throws curveballs occasionally. In any case, I'm DEFINITELY NOT getting married for several more years...

[Babyruth]

Say that, and you will. Mwhahahahahahahaha!

[NoahL]

Say that, and you will. Mwhahahahahahahaha!

Ha ha ha ha. How right you are.

[Babyruth]

Ha ha ha ha. How right you are.
Music to my ears! :D

[HotShot53]

Say that, and you will. Mwhahahahahahahaha!

Wait, what happened to Ruth? The ruth I know would have supported Alana's position...

[Babyruth]

:bigsmile: :D

[HotShot53]

:bigsmile: :D

Now I'm getting really worried... was she kidnapped and replaced by an impostor, or did someone brainwash her?

[BroTrevor]

I agree with Anna completely...
One thing I've noticed is that a lot of people get married either way earlier or way later than they had originally planned...I guess life throws curveballs occasionally. In any case, I'm DEFINITELY NOT getting married for several more years...

Heh... wait for the curveball to come your way!!


But the point is merely, that while we aren't sure what God may have for us, we should be good stewards of our time, money, and lives. We should do other things to prepare us for the future than compete in how many posts we have on yqforums...noble as that may be.

[Babyruth]

Now I'm getting really worried... was she kidnapped and replaced by an impostor, or did someone brainwash her?
Worry away. I'm fine.

[HotShot53]

Worry away. I'm fine.

Your :gun_banda :box: in the other thread was re-assuring ;)

[Babyruth]

Fear not. I was simply saying that if Alana says that, she probably will be married. She's one of "those girls." :D I, on the other hand, still am the same as always.

[HotShot53]

Fear not. I was simply saying that if Alana says that, she probably will be married. She's one of "those girls." :D I, on the other hand, still am the same as always.

Hmm... so, Alana, what do you have to say to the above?

[Babyruth]

She'll deny it of course. But I know her better. :D

[HotShot53]

She'll deny it of course. But I know her better. :D

I was also wondering what she thought of your opinion of yourself ;)

[Babyruth]

She knows me too. And agrees with me. She's a good girl. :D

[HotShot53]

She knows me too. And agrees with me. She's a good girl. :D

We'll see when she gets on here and posts for herself...

[Babyruth]

You'll see!

[AlanaH]

Ok, here's the post you've all been waiting for...

The truth is...
I have always thought that Ruth could be the first of my best friends to get married...because she is sooo against it now, and it's true what Trevor says...just wait for the curveball...but who knows...
And if not, I will respect her decision...and then forever harass her about it later...haha.
(And she knows that I would too!!!)

And as for me, I didn't say NEVER, :) I said not for several years yet...goodness.:)

[Babyruth]

Thanks Alana. You are a pal! Take that Hotshot! :harhar1:

[blessed]

But the point is merely, that while we aren't sure what God may have for us, we should be good stewards of our time, money, and lives. We should do other things to prepare us for the future than compete in how many posts we have on yqforums...noble as that may be.

Amen ...............

[HotShot53]

Thanks Alana. You are a pal! Take that Hotshot! :harhar1:

Lol, take what? She backed me up...

[blessed]

He he he I knew that was coming

[Babyruth]

Lol, take what? She backed me up...
She did not!!!!!

[BroTrevor]

Has this become another debate on how long it will be before some get married?

What if God has other plans?



JAMES 4:13 - 17
13 Go to now, ye that say, To day or to morrow we will go into such a city, and continue there a year, and buy and sell, and get gain:
14 Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away.
15 For that ye ought to say, If the Lord will, we shall live, and do this, or that.
16 But now ye rejoice in your boastings: all such rejoicing is evil.
17 Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin.

[Babyruth]

No, this is just a debate that I will win, because Alana backed me up, not Hotshot. It's not a debate about marriage, at least not for me. I didn't want to bring that up, I know God has His own plans, and I've already said that I'm up to whatever God has for me. But, til He reveals them to me, I'm stickin to my guns. :2ar15:

[AlanaH]

I really didn't back anyone up...:)
I said I THOUGHT Ruth might end up married, but if not, I will respect that decision (though I will forver harass her about it)
I didn't take anyone's side!!!:)
So take that everybody! :tongue:
(sorry, couldn't resist)

[Babyruth]

See, Hotshot! I told you! Ha! :harhar1:

[AlanaH]

Goodness gracious...
It's amazing how much one can soon be sooo misquoted...lol, just kidding :)
Or am I??? :)

[Babyruth]

You weren't misquoted.

[HotShot53]

See, Hotshot! I told you! Ha! :harhar1:

Umm... she just said that she wasn't backing you up, either... which is why she complained about being misquoted ;)

[collegegirl]

WHOA!!!!!

Has any one of you actually looked at what was posted between the argument?

Chill. Ruth doesn't want to get married, and opposes marriage.

Alana will get married in time.

And DJ has the most posts.

So what are you all doing about preparing yourself for marriage instead of arguing when it will be?

[HotShot53]

Chill. Ruth doesn't want to get married, and opposes marriage.

Actually, she seems to be slightly bending on that... she now admits that it is possible God could show her the right one ;)

[Babyruth]

I've admitted that since February of this year. No one cared to listen til now. It was at a Young People's service and I realized that I was telling God what I wanted and not what He wanted. I gave everything to Him, including marriage and college. And, just to make it clear, I'm not opposed to marriage, I just don't think it's for me. If it is, then I know God will change me. Either way, it's up to Him, not me, nor anyone, to tell me what to do. I'll keep you "posted." :D

[AlanaH]

Good one Ruth!

What are we doing to prepare? Why, nothing, I suppose....cause it happening for a looooong time....
Welcome back to square one folks. :) Lol

[AlanaH]

And I thought that we'd firmly established this already...<sigh>

[leahmb]

What are we doing to prepare? Why, nothing, I suppose....cause it happening for a looooong time....

Hm...I don't know if you really want to go around saying that :y10: It might scare some people.

As some know, I am not into cooking and I get flak (sp?) all the time for that and I have all my reasons; right now, it's just not me. But...my mom is making me slowly learn, which I can see is a good thing. Some things aren't just in preparation for marriage. It can be preparation for your future, whether single or married (*note* I don't think Ruth is opposed to marriage in general, just not for her). Mom's theory is that a sister needs to learn to keep a house even if she is going to remain single. I can see her point, because I don't want to be a 40-single sister who always has to bring pop to parties, because I never took the time to learn. Plus I want to be able to have people to my house for fellowship even if I am single. Thankfully I have the cleaning part down! I really don't mind cleaning, so I am happy about that one.

Another "preparation" aspect is the one dealing with finances. I think some young people don't realize how much stuff costs and can get in trouble when they get out on your own. Things add up! I think learning to budget is a very good skill to work on, as well as seeing how much things cost; ones you don't think of like dentist appointments, car tires, laundry soap, power bills, medicine, and the list goes on:)

[BroTrevor]

Another "preparation" aspect is the one dealing with finances. I think some young people don't realize how much stuff costs and can get in trouble when they get out on your own. Things add up! I think learning to budget is a very good skill to work on, as well as seeing how much things cost; ones you don't think of like dentist appointments, car tires, laundry soap, power bills, medicine, and the list goes on:)

In that vein, have you created a "mock up" budget for what it would take to make it on your own? Have you priced rent or housing in your area? Have you checked the typical power bills for like dwellings of where you'd like to live?

Do you realize how much it takes?? or is your attitude... "well, God said He would provide"


Chill. Ruth doesn't want to get married, and opposes marriage.

Alana will get married in time.

And DJ has the most posts.

So what are you all doing about preparing yourself for marriage instead of arguing when it will be?


yeah...that's what I was thinking. Of course, I know, I'm being a nag, just like your mother. But as one who can so vividly remember those first years out on my own.

Ya know the kind, living in my truck, working like a dog, no real future plan, but hey...I had the world ahead of me, I could do whatever I wanted.

Then all of a sudden, SisTrev came around (although she wasn't sisTrev at the time) and wham, I'm thinking marriage all of a sudden...and then I'm thinking, suddenly I gotta get a game plan going why didn't I figure this out a couple years back...I'd be in so much better of a position.

Except for the fact that I was already a good cook, I had nothing prepared for any future goals that may have come along.

So I say, that while it may not be necessary to devote your entire life to planning for the future, and not living in the present, it would be wise to determine a outcome you like and think would be possible to happen, and begin to understand what it will take to get there. After you understand what it will take, you can then prepare.

It's better than sitting around on your duff anyhow.

[joris]

"well, God said He would provide"well He did :angel:

[BroTrevor]

well He did :angel:

Ah yes, so that means we should never look for a job, and yet God will provide somehow money and all we have need of miraculously.

I don't think that's quite how it works...

[joris]

Ah yes, so that means we should never look for a job, and yet God will provide somehow money and all we have need of miraculously.just to put it all in biblical context... ;) :angel:
25 Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment? 26 Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they? 27 Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature? 28 And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin: 29 And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. 30 Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith? 31 Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? 32 (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. 33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. 34 Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof. (mathew 6)

I've got to work on the not doubting part -- the rest seems to be covered just fine

(hey, I didn't know bible has smilies in it)

[collegegirl]

Yes, But:

I TIMOTHY 5:8
8 But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel.

Not saying that you brothers wouldn't provide, but just to sit back, earn money, and spend it without thought to how much you spend, (heh, like I do *sheepish grin* working on that...) and then suddenly, there was nothing put in the bank like you had intended, tithes are a little overdue...and oops, car payment coming up, and insurance due....not to mention the cell phone bill...

Do you think that you are going to be able to provide for a family like that?

Man, I sooo gotta change my budget. To tell you the truth, I wasn't aiming this at anyone, but it is what I do, and I am ashamed to admit it. LOrd willing, as soon as all of my paychecks go to direct deposit, then hopefully I will be able to keep a better handle on it. I just don't want anyone else to have to deal with this, thinking that there is no help, that they are the only one...You just gotta do it. You just gotta get it right.

*ok, get moving collegegirl*

[joris]

Do you think that you are going to be able to provide for a family like that?I do not think I'm emotionally capable for a family

money crap: I have saved up money - which, by the little amount of pocket money, is actually increasing - just so show why -- I hardly spend money; hardly buy stuff; I feel little motivation or none at all to buy... anything; then -- except for maybe finding trusting hard sometimes, no - I do not care about that money -- you cannot buy the things I long for, anyway

[AlanaH]

Don't we all have these kinds of problems?

[jtucker]

we must all be in preperations, we must secure a plan execute the plan and reach the goal but with out a good foundation of preperation all will become unstable

[God'schild]

I do not think I'm emotionally capable for a family

money crap: I have saved up money - which, by the little amount of pocket money, is actually increasing - just so show why -- I hardly spend money; hardly buy stuff; I feel little motivation or none at all to buy... anything; then -- except for maybe finding trusting hard sometimes, no - I do not care about that money -- you cannot buy the things I long for, anyway

God knows the longing you have.. and with time trust him he will bring everything you need at the right time..
being patient is a hard thing trust me i know what it is like being thought to be patient.. it's hard.. that's one thing trials teach me is patience(sp?).

[AlanaH]

Hm...I don't know if you really want to go around saying that :y10: It might scare some people.


Well, if I can scare them off, then I don't think they would be the one for me...cause the one for me will not be scared off no matter what I say.

[joris]

Yes, But:

I TIMOTHY 5:8
8 But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel.
I'm sure you're not trying to say Jesus lived like "infidel" right? (mathew 6)

now - there's very strong and deep emotions here; maybe you can reply in a proper way if you know some background;
Some years ago, even far before repentance, I got, some real deep fear of that future life seemed to be pushing me into - a life of coldness and loneliness, a life only about struggling through every day untill death; a life of work-to-eat-to-work with no further reason and a lot to hate about it - a life like nightmare to me;
While parents were pretending to be so happy about me finishing the previous school (like secundary? I'm not sure about that name) and all that, it seemed I only was getting nearer the nightmare, so it wasn't anything to be happy about
Thing there is, I still don't see much in that life, and it still really feels like it's heading that way; I feel really uninterested in school, and obviously I don't see anything in going to work either; I feel, I have no clue of what I want with future

About... more then a year ago, I was also already facing this lack of will and lack of interest, and such; but as encouraged to take one, a "study interest test" only showed that, I have not much interest for anything -- except for God; now that's some heart cry; but I do not long theological words about God, I don't want words without revelation, no dry theory - instead I long for God Himself, Him helping me leading me Him enabling me for... what He wants; in the hope (and understanding in my mind) that He is able to take my life and make it something of value

Then after some awfull long period of time I tried to find a way to make that practical, and tried to tell my parents... me telling; no kidding; it didn't work ofcourse, they hate whatever isn't exactly like their lifes - you know, the nightmare version (maybe not nightmare to them as they don't so deeply have the loniness factor)

oh :ng_thumbd why do I even bother to write it down? it's just another cry for help but :sad: :012: I don't even know /how/ someone could help me

[God'schild]

i totally understand...

i was where you are now, i totally know what you mean.. i know all about the loneliness(sp?) and the emontions i totally know believe me i know.. i've been there..

[AlanaH]

I think we all have at one point or another...we totally stand behind you...

[God'schild]

I think we all have at one point or another...we totally stand behind you...

umm i don't know if i agree with that

sure we've all been where we feel alone.. But some people don't have problems with being emontional like some of us do..

I know people that aren't very emontional so therefore they can not understand the people that are..

Just like people that love to be around a whole bunch of other people can't understand why some of us(like me) like to be by ourselfs more then we like to be with people..

BUT I GET WHAT YOUR SAYING.!!!

[AlanaH]

But we've all probably felt lonely at one point or another....and that's what I was referring to.

[God'schild]

But we've all probably felt lonely at one point or another....and that's what I was referring to.

ah,
now i get what your saying.

[EllyMae]

Hm, I don't think I've wrote a single post in this thread. So, here I am...

What am I doing to prepare? Or, what are some things that I'm doing today that will prepare me for tomorrow, a year from now, 5 years from now?

Just simple living as Godly of a life I can, for one. Being obedient to God, continue seeking a closer relationship with Him, and increasing my faith and revelation by the Word and the message of the hour.

Also, finances... I've had my first job for almost a month now, and at this point I've only spent about an eighth of it, if that. Most of it I will be saving, to pay for car insurance, and whatever else may come along. Money does not bring happiness, but it is important to be responsible with your money so that you don't spend more than you're bringing home. It is essential to have money in this world today, even if it is enough to provide JUST what your family needs (maybe not necessarily wants-although that is nice if you can). I think as long as you put the Lord first in your life, and you're willing to work hard, not just sit around and wait for everything to be placed at your doorstep, then He will definitely provide everything you need.

Girls, we know our job as a housewife (which is a 24 hour job by the way.) ;) Knowing how to cook and provide proper nutrition for our families is important. I'll admit, I should take some cooking lessons from my mom long before I get married. :D We should also keep our homes cleaned as best we can. I don't mind cleaning, sometimes I actually enjoy it. This job will prepare me plenty for that, since I do housekeeping and laundry, haha. Oh, and most important, we NEED to know how to care for our children properly. Changing diapers, bathing, feeding, playing, educating, etc., all VERY important. Whatever else we need to do to help out for our families we should prepare for as best we can now. If we need any special education if we plan on homeschooling our children, or whatever type of training we may need if we have to get a job. We should think of these things now.

Guys, now.... us girls have A LOT of household responsibilities. Besides working, and being a good Godly father to your children, you might want to look into some household responsibilities of your own, haha. Like, don't wait until the grass is a foot tall before you mow it. Might be helpful if you know how to fix a linking sink, change a tire... You know what I'm trying to say. LOL "Handymen" type of work. Just a suggestion. :D My mom is very blessed, she married a very handy man. I hope I can find a handy guy too, haha. Saves A LOT of money, so that you don't have to pay someone to do the job for you. ;)

This post by Sister Jen on Xanga I found to be very encouraging. She wrote it for the sisters, but I'm sure everyone would enjoy it...
http://www.xanga.com/SisterJen/509054192/our-duty-as-a-wife-and-mother.html

Okay, well God bless everyone! :)

[HotShot53]

Guys, now.... us girls have A LOT of household responsibilities. Besides working, and being a good Godly father to your children, you might want to look into some household responsibilities of your own, haha. Like, don't wait until the grass is a foot tall before you mow it. Might be helpful if you know how to fix a linking sink, change a tire... You know what I'm trying to say. LOL "Handymen" type of work. Just a suggestion. :D My mom is very blessed, she married a very handy man. I hope I can find a handy guy too, haha. Saves A LOT of money, so that you don't have to pay someone to do the job for you. ;)

I've always figured that I'd rather spend my time earning a couple extra bucks, and pay someone to do the job right ;) I can do the little things... but anything too much I'd probably just mess it up worse ;)

[EllyMae]

I've always figured that I'd rather spend my time earning a couple extra bucks, and pay someone to do the job right ;) I can do the little things... but anything too much I'd probably just mess it up worse ;)

Well, in that case, just make a couple extra bucks... :D Which shouldn't be hard for you, Mr. Accountant. :P

[EllyMae]

Hm, I don't think I've wrote a single post in this thread. So, here I am...

Okay, so I did post once... :)

[joris]

Also, finances... I've had my first job for almost a month now, and at this point I've only spent about an eighth of it, if that. Most of it I will be savingwhat do you do if you get an insane idea to give a relative large sum of money for some evangelisation organisation...?

[leahmb]

what do you do if you get an insane idea to give a relative large sum of money for some evangelisation organisation...?

If you feel God calling you to do it; he'll provide for your needs I believe.

[Anna]

Yes He will.

GO.TELL.MY.DISCIPLES_ JEFF.IN V-25 N-5 SUNDAY_ 53-0405S
224 He told me a little story one time. His--his grandmother had, or his--his aunt, I believe it was, had made a promise, she'd pay an old circuit preacher five dollars at the end of the year. She'd washed clothes, and she didn't have the moneyto pay him. And the wash day come, and then the preacher was going to be there, and she didn't have any money And she had a dime, or a nickel, or whatever it cost for a big old barof soap, and she sent him to the store. Come back, and said, she took the--the barof soap, and the--and was crying." Said, "She reached down and got her big old apron and wiped her tears.
And she was over the old kettle, like your mothers used to have to do. 'Course, you just touch a button now. That's gone, you see.

GO.TELL.MY.DISCIPLES_ JEFF.IN V-25 N-5 SUNDAY_ 53-0405S
226 But she put the soap on the washboard like this. And putting it on; she heard something rubbing. And she happened to look down, and looked, sticking in the bar of soap, and there was a five-dollar gold piece; and she had promised the old circuit preacher." She said...
I said, "How did that get there?"
Said, "Well, I'm just a wondering?"
I said, "The resurrected Jesus did that. She made the promise with all good heart. She thought she could do it, and God had made a way for her." Just the way He does things, is the way you recognize Him. Just by what He does, the things that He does, the way He does it. She said...
He said, "Well, I--I wondered, always." Said, "It's always been on my heart, wonder if there was..."
I said, "If there was?" I said, "There is, Mr. Andrews."

[EllyMae]

what do you do if you get an insane idea to give a relative large sum of money for some evangelisation organisation...?

Well, a lot of prayer should be done before hand to make sure it's the leading from the Lord. Also, some research over the organization is very important. You want to know exactly who you are giving the money to, and so forth. Because if it is anything contrary to God's Word, then you know the idea was not from Him, and you shouldn't do it.

[joris]

oh well - it was some I trust - in fact people trying to evangalize in haiti... because that isn't a place you want to get too near to

[joris]

Let's have a look at this one:
Math19:20 The young man saith unto him, All these things have I kept from my youth up: what lack I yet? 21 Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me. 22 But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful: for he had great possessions.
now, does that sound like a "proper way" to invest in future, giving everything away you own, essentially becoming as homeless as Jesus was Himself? Now, and, how are we rich western people to respond to this invitation?

[BroTrevor]

I see your point Joris....


My point is to not necessarily be financially secure, even tho that is very helpful in planning for your future.

The point I hoped to make, was that, rather than sitting around doing nothing, we should prayerfully seek direction in preparing ourselves.

This man in the scripture was already rich, but he had failed to plan for His eternal life. That always must come first.

[Jezz]

In all things you reap what you sow, if you sow nothing you'll reap nothing. That is kind of what I'm doing at the moment, nothing, university doesn't take up much time and I don't look for a job as hard as I should. I feel like a coward who hasn't got the guts to run out there and embrace life. I have no real motivation to achieve anything.

[BroTrevor]

I have no real motivation to achieve anything.

I'm seeing that alot. This is why I started the post.

Go Jezz...go out and sow for Him. I know you have it in you...

[AlanaH]

It's very rewarding to do something for God, and not just by being rewarded in Heaven. It's awesome to see a result of something that you've done for God.

[jordancpeterson]

I have no real motivation to achieve anything.
A minister that I highly admired not only for his spiritual walk but also the success his career, told me that when he met the Lord at 18 years old he didn't have any more ambition and has kept that way up till now (what I think he meant was that he had no ideas for himself and just followed what the Lord wanted in his life). That intrigued me because where he latter ended up in his career was really amazing (today he is the CEO of a large international manufacturing company). Just goes to show you what can happen to you if you just follow what the Lord wants in your life. Not saying you'll become some CEO or something but still the Lord really knows best and it's still a better life to just follow His leading and not yours even if it means living a simple humble life (which is really what He wants anyway).

[Only One Life, Live 4 GOD]

Its so great to do Gods work I havent done this for a while but I used to fill my backpack up with assorted tracts and walked around town handing them out and testifying you feel so scared when you first do it you dont know what people are going to say or do but afterwards you feel so rewarded the smile on that old ladys face the business man that put it in His folder and showed you later while walking past the man saying he doesnt beilive in God but will read it anyway these are my rewards once I have done this and what a reward it is I think its one of the greatest rewards there are.

[Only One Life, Live 4 GOD]

Ok everyone, I've had some thoughts on this before, and reading how some wouldn't send their kids to public school (in the homeschool thread) started me to thinking on this.

So I ask, what are you doing to prepare yourself for the day you are out on your own, and perhaps married, and even later perhaps children.

Being at the stage of life where I have my oldest son beginning kindergarten this year, I know somewhat of what it is like to homeschool. I chose to do Abeka video cirriculum because I don't think that I or SisTrev will have 2.5 hours a day to sit with Zion to teach him, mostly due to the baby.

What does that mean? That means homeschool costs just went up about 800%. If I would have just done the books, it would have cost me about 200 or less. With the DVD program to aid

Girls:
So for those planning on getting married, raising a family... what are you doing to prepare yourself for homeschooling your children? Sure you can do the video route like we are, but then are you doing anything to prepare for the increased costs? I figure by the time I have 3 kids in first grade or above, I'll need to budget at LEAST 3K per year for schooling.

How about learning to cook, clean, iron, etc... I've known girls that got married REAL young, and suddenly had to have a crash course in basic cooking, because they had never done it a day in their life. (no, this doesn't consist of heating a frozen dinner in the microwave...)

In short, have you thought about your goals and aspirations for the next 2 - 5 years, where you want to be, and what it will take for you to be there?


Guys:

So, you're thinking you want to be married some day? Do you know how much it costs to live out on your own with a family? What are you doing to prepare yourself so that you can adequately provide for the family you would like to have? College? Journeyman program? Taking over dad's business one day? Anything? A job involving "do you want fries with that?" will probably not support a family adequately.

Have you sat down and looked at houses in your area, how much they will cost and such? Sure you can start out in an apartment, but you'll need a plan to eventually get a house wont you? Knowing how much this will cost, then figure out how much you're going to need to bring home to make a house payment.

How about the whole "spiritual head of the house" part? Do you have your own devotions every day? As a Godly head of the house, you would be responsible for leading your family in devotions one day. You'll have to make decisions based on the Word of God for your family, and be able to be led by Him. If this isn't part of your daily routine now, how do you think it'll all "just come together" after you get married? I tell you, as a married guy, that you will have LESS time for everything after being married, and especially after having children. Are you preparing NOW to be a spiritual leader?


All:

Please understand that I in no way discount God working things out in your life. I just feel that being led NOW in preparing yourself for the future is a smart thing to do. I don't believe God intends for you to sit around on your duff and have you plan on Him dragging you into good things. I really don't think it works that way.

So my advice is to prayerfully consider your future, and what it will take to prepare for your future God given roles.

Perhaps you wont be stuck in an apartment for 6 years listening to your neighbors bass music that way like we were.

Oh, and I wasn't thinking of anyone here specifically when I wrote all that. It's intended to be very general and hopefully thought-provoking.

God Bless!



As for domestic things go I do my own ironing, cleaning, washing etc (my rooms the tidyest in the house and as for the bathroom I am always cleaning it in fact I beilive Mum lets a speck of dust go on it on purpose just so I can clean it!!!)
And cooking personally I think I'm a great cook after being alone for weeks on end you learn how to cook and I'm not talking about basic cooking.

My sister got married at 16 and well she never was very domestic it wasnt in her nature but she sure would make a better mum and wife than me she is loving and unselfish she picked up cooking ok... at least she can make a carrot cake I cant, I can make a mean chocolate cake though!!! But she still is messy and she has a HUGE ironing pile lol not now though mum did it all!!!

But I am going to have a career I'm not intending to get married or have children and if the right guy does come along of coarse I'll marry but I would carry on in my career and my child shall go to school I say "child" for I cant get married without having at least one child but really no more than 2 ... I really wouldnt cope.

[BroTrevor]

But I am going to have a career I'm not intending to get married or have children and if the right guy does come along of coarse I'll marry but I would carry on in my career and my child shall go to school I say "child" for I cant get married without having at least one child but really no more than 2 ... I really wouldnt cope.

Are you so sure you wouldn't cope?

Don't limit God my sister.

It is good to prepare for the future and to be a good steward of your time, it is another to determine your future for yourself and lock it in with no change.

Prepare, but be open for God's leading.

[marichino_freedom]

as of now, i am trying to finish my bachelor's degree in biology. i work 40 hours a week on top of being a full time student, so i make pretty decent money. after i graduate next spring, i plan to attend K-state for four years to become a veterinarian. not too sure when i'll get married or whatever, but I know I will sometime in the not so distant future......God willing. After I become a vet, then i will be "financially secure" for my family that i intend to have......I want to have my own practice someday at home, so I can be with my kids. I wouldnt have to work all the time, and it would help my husband a lot!! (vets make very decent money ;) ) not tom mention, i would be looking for opportunities to take the place of or in addition to that with the armed forces/government or whatever to contract with other countries and work with the wildlife/domestic animal situations that many of them have. my options are very broad!

as far as domestic stuff goes: i've been doing laundry since i was 10 or 11 and i do the best load of laundry you've ever seen!!! lol.....and i cook well, i clean, i got all that covered (but my kids will DEFINATELY help out someday when i have some and they are big enough!!!)

[vpiper]

as far as domestic stuff goes: i've been doing laundry since i was 10 or 11 and i do the best load of laundry you've ever seen!!! lol.....and i cook well, i clean, i got all that covered (but my kids will DEFINATELY help out someday when i have some and they are big enough!!!)

my daughter is 18 months old and she puts her dirty clothes in her hamper, pushes the wet clothes into the dryer for me when I drop them on the door and takes the dry clothes out of the dryer. the only problem is she when we are folding clothes to put away she tries to put them in the hamper again.

[marichino_freedom]

she's hysterical.....at least she's learning, right?

[vpiper]

all I'm saying is you can expect more then you would think out of children, just as long as you don't push it

[marichino_freedom]

they do learn quickly....and sometimes what you DONT want them to learn

[JoeC]

my daughter is 18 months old and she puts her dirty clothes in her hamper, pushes the wet clothes into the dryer for me when I drop them on the door and takes the dry clothes out of the dryer. the only problem is she when we are folding clothes to put away she tries to put them in the hamper again.
That's really neat, Vanessa.

[chocolateismybestfriend]

Before we start looking at how we can prepare to be mature, godly wives & mothers and godly husbands & fathers, we must firstly start with the One for whom we are doing all this – The Lord.

God must be the very number one in our lives. He must be EVERYTHING to us.

This will be especially necessary when we are married – we must depend on God and not our husband/wife for our happiness, joy, and security, because our partners are human and will be flawed but God is perfect.

Beyond a relationship with God the only thing i have questioned is going to do further schooling.
I have applied to go to university, but will not know whether i have been accepted for a little while yet.
I don't know whether God wants that. I think i would struggle giving up a career that i had worked 3/4 years to get in order to have a family.
So i'm leaving it in God's capable hands - if i get accepted i'll be going, if i don't looks like i'll be off taking some cooking classes so my husband is well feed. ;)

One thing i'm focusing on to prepare for my marriage is to submit. To submit to the Word and to my earthly father. I may not always agree with him, and it's awfully hard to do something you don't agree with or dont want to do even. God has placed my dad is authority above me, and one day my husband will be in that position so hopefully by the time that comes i'll be in a position that is submissive and encourages him to lead.

We have to remember being single is our time to prepare ourselves, to grow in all ways and make ourselves ready for the responsibility we will face when we do get married and have a family. Too many people today find being single is an excuse to prolong having to have any responsibilty.

We should be using this time to God's glory and our benefit. For i know Bro and Sis Trev will agree once you get married and start that family, time becomes sparce. We have so much time, we ought to use it to the best of our abilities.

Being single is a gift, but let's not use it as an excuse. :)

Lord Bless all of you!

[SisTrev]

We have to remember being single is our time to prepare ourselves, to grow in all ways and make ourselves ready for the responsibility we will face when we do get married and have a family. Too many people today find being single is an excuse to prolong having to have any responsibilty.

We should be using this time to God's glory and our benefit. For i know Bro and Sis Trev will agree once you get married and start that family, time becomes sparce. We have so much time, we ought to use it to the best of our abilities.

Being single is a gift, but let's not use it as an excuse. :)

Lord Bless all of you! I do agree with you .....very , very well put!!!

[marichino_freedom]

Beyond a relationship with God the only thing i have questioned is going to do further schooling.
I have applied to go to university, but will not know whether i have been accepted for a little while yet.
I don't know whether God wants that. I think i would struggle giving up a career that i had worked 3/4 years to get in order to have a family.
So i'm leaving it in God's capable hands - if i get accepted i'll be going, if i don't looks like i'll be off taking some cooking classes so my husband is well feed. ;)




suppose he wouldnt want you to give up your "career"....

i've often thought about that, why i'm spending 8 and a half years to 9 years total in college to pursue my dream of being a veterinarian if i just have to "give it up". but, i wont have to....its a flexible "career", one that my family could be involved in.

besides, if i am married before i get my DVM, i dont plan on having kids until i've completed it..... ;)

[BroTrevor]

besides, if i am married before i get my DVM, i dont plan on having kids until i've completed it..... ;)

Being at stay at home mom/DVM would be like your kids going to "Zoo school"

I think it could be neat.

I can't believe I just said that...being the son of a DVM.

It was decidedly NOT neat. But then, my Dad DVM worked on cows mostly.

[marichino_freedom]

lol...yeah ZOO SCHOOL!!! thanks a good way to put it! i dont plan on working with cows though.......

i love that....it made me laugh

[vpiper]

That's really neat, Vanessa.

Thank you, it takes patience to work with kids, even your own

[Babyruth]

I agree, it takes lots of patience! I don't have my own kids, obviously, but I have done a lot of babysitting. Now, I know lots of girls say that, but I babysat around 5 kids every week, all under the age of 5. Lots of fun, but definately teaces you patience. And, I took care of almost 20 kids for the elementary school, during their PTO meetings. And, I half raised my first 2 cousins, and still babysit all the time. So, yes, I do agree, kids try your patience. I know I try my mother's. :D

[vpiper]

right now I'm preparing myself for nap time to be over.

we are also doing a bible study on the Seven Seals, we are on the fourth seal.

[countrygurl]

I am really learning the patience one right now. I tutor my 9 yr old cousin two days a week...It's wow...a real patience builder...:drowning:

[marichino_freedom]

right now I'm preparing myself for nap time to be over.

we are also doing a bible study on the Seven Seals, we are on the fourth seal.


seth and I discussed having a Bible study.....since no one else up here is doing it at the moment

[vpiper]

Isaac and I Bible study together often, just pick a topic, or just set a time where the two of you sit down and read your bibles in the same room and if something catches your attention then talk about it. just don't let the rest of life distract from the purpose of the time, Sarah might want to join.

[marichino_freedom]

yeah you are right.....

[vpiper]

I was not trying to be right I just wanted to help you get started.

[redeemed_lizzi]

seth and I discussed having a Bible study.....since no one else up here is doing it at the moment

It would be good to do a Bible study. It's always a blessing when you read and discuss the Word.

[vpiper]

bible studies are great. Right now we are doing the Seal book and all of the group has read it at least on their own, but discussing it as a group is great, we end up talking about a lot of other topics that are important that were brought up along with the seals.

I've learned a lot.

[NeedGod]

I am doing a lot of message listening to. It helps. Even when i am sleepy i still put it on. Doesnt matter. I sleep through some words but some catch on. Recently I realised it helps one grow. Ok, i know all of you are going like, DUH! but it wasn't too obvious to me. :)

[AgapZoe]

haha, true true, well atleast I didn't go like, DUH! ;) but what you say is very true....it helps oneto grow!

this reminds me of a day was having a severe stomachache then i slept with the mp3 on, i was playing it, from one msg to the other...then around midnight i switched it off. the stomachache was sooo severe...i was turning all around the bed....then i put on the mp3 player again, and it was now 'God's provided place of worship'... i was in real pain, wasn't hearing anything.
but then,something unusual happened, the cd forwarded iteself till the end where bro Branham was praying for the sick.. once I raised my hand and believed...then after the prayers, it restarted, i didnt do anything...i was well, i slept well...and the details, i'll spare you! :)

anyway, that just reminded me of that experience.

as for now, am reading 'an exposition of the Book of Hebrews' and am having an awesome experience!