By Faith…The Giving Widow

By Faith…The Giving Widow – Mark 12:41-44 & Luke 21:1-4

Below is the story of someone who gave everything she had. Jesus uses this example to tell us that no matter what amount we have, even if it is very small, we should give our all. This woman gave her all. Jesus asks us to do the same.


**The passage is from Mark 12:41-44, but the story is also found in Luke 21:1-4**


Jesus sat down opposite the place where the offerings were put and watched the crowd putting their money into the temple treasury. Many rich people threw in large amounts. But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a fraction of a penny.

Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, “I tell you the truth, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything—all she had to live on.”

Royce Bair -  http://www.tssphoto.com/index.php?p=380

By faith this lady who had no husband to support her, gave her all. By faith she trusted that God would provide for her needs. By faith she was willing to let God use her.

This widow is a great example of faith to us. Will you choose to live by faith and give, trusting that God will provide for you?

OTHERS - Helping in the Harvest - April 2011

Helping in the Harvest

The author of Helping in the Harvest, Rachel, is taking a couple months leave from writing on JOY Blog. She will be back in June, after school is done, to once again write Helping in the Harvest for JOY Blog.

Until then, share with us how you or someone you know is helping in the harvest, or share an organization that you would like to see featured as a helping in the harvest article.

Just leave your comment below or send your ideas to joyfilledgirls@hotmail.com

OTHERS-By Faith...Lisa Tawn Bergren

OTHERS-By Faith...Lisa Tawn Bergren

And the Winner is...

Sarah G.
I hope you enjoy it!!! Email joyfilledgirls@hotmail.com to get your copy.

If anyone else is interested, check out March articles to find out how you can win a copy this month!!! 

This month we have a special author interview!!! And on top of being able to interview an author and have great responses, she has a special surprise for you. Lisa Tawn Bergren's brand new book for teens, Waterfall, is just coming out this month AND we are able to give one away here on the blog!!! Thank you Lisa! If you would like to win it, read through the article and then look at the bottom for more details on how to enter!**


And now may I present... 

Lisa Tawn Bergren!

1."By Faith" is based on Hebrews 11. How do you feel you are living By Faith?

It takes a certain amount of faith to try and make a living as a writer--believing that God has planted a story within your mind that is worthy of publication; believing that you can start with a blank page and write a cohesive story that matters (or get to the end at all!); believing that readers may like it; believing that you're supposed to be doing this even if some people don't like your work; believing that it will sell enough that you can do it again the next time. But I'm also trying to learn how to live my whole life by faith--being SO "sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see" that my entire life becomes one of optimism, hope, assuredness even when difficult circumstances or trials come my way.

2. What were you like as a teenage girl?

Church rat, one of the youth group "backbones," 3.2 GPA, not one of the populars, but with lots of solid friendships, loved books and movies.

3. Tell us about your next book coming out.

WATERFALL is my first YA novel, and it's about two sisters who are transported through time to medieval Italy. There, they find romance, love, and a boatload of danger. They have to fight for their lives--and those they're coming to love--and figure out how to get home. Or even if they want to.

4. Why did you decide to write a book for teen girls?

My eldest daughter, Olivia, was a reluctant reader. I tried and tried to get her to read, but it wasn't until TWILIGHT that she understood how a book could keep you up all night reading. I wanted to give her another read like it--a solid romantic suspense--but without the vampires.

5. Which one of your books is your favorite?

THE BEGOTTEN. I love this medieval time period, and THE BEGOTTEN is about a group of people called by God to affect change in his kingdom. It was epic--bigger than me. It hasn't sold the best, but it still is one of my favorites for sure.

6. Tell us about your salvation story. How did you come to know Jesus?

I've always known Jesus. That's the bonus of being raised in the church and in a Christian family. But after college, I went to be a ski bum for a winter and found I was really, really depressed. I also recognized that I was really far from my faith roots. I had a personal reformation experience, where I was down on my face before God, and he picked me up, dusted me off and sent me from Park City, UT to Jerusalem, Israel, where I stayed for three weeks and got my head and heart back in order. Ever since, he's been first in my life and my relationship deepens with him every year.

7. JOY is a blog for girls. Looking back at where you were to where you are now, what advice would you have given yourself when you were a teenage girl?

Be kind to yourself. Try and see yourself as God sees you--special, treasured, cherished, loved. He sees all the potential in you, what you are now, and what you could be--let him mold you, push you, pull you, pry you open, press you closed so you become all that he created you to be. And what's on the INSIDE of you is way more important than what's on the OUTSIDE. The world focuses on outer appearances, but your father focuses on your heart.

8. How do you balance writing, family, and remain focused on God?

It's a constant battle. I'm getting better at morning devotional time, and a weekly Sabbath rest--at least 2 of 4 weeks--which is an improvement. It helps now that all 3 of my kids are in school. I get them off, take care of home life and marketing stuff in the morning, then write in the afternoons.

9. When did you know you were meant to be a writer?

When I started getting fan mail telling me my books--my little books--were making a big impact on people's lives. Healing. Salvation. Reordering of priorities. Through fiction? Yes, through fiction. That's really God, working through my words. And I think that's pretty miraculous.

A few fun questions:

10. What is the one material thing you wouldn't leave home without?

My laptop.

11. What is the one food you don't think you could live without?

Bread. I really hope I never have to go gluten-free because the gluten-free stuff isn't the yeasty numminess I crave.

12. What is your favorite color?

Green, all shades.

13. What was/were your favorite book and/or movie growing up?

Books: ISLAND OF THE BLUE DOLPHINS, A WRINKLE IN TIME, LITTLE WOMEN, Chronicles of Narnia...as a pre-teen. Then I pretty much leaped to adult novels: GONE WITH THE WIND and THORN BIRDS come to mind. Christian fiction was fairly nonexistent when I was growing up--I'm really glad we offer kids and adults so much more these days. But I did enjoy the Thoenes' books and Frank Peretti's books had a big impact on me too.

Movies: I liked action-packed, epic movies: Star Wars and Indiana Jones, Romancing the Stone, Superman

14. What is/are your favorite book and/or movie now?

Favorite book of 2010: The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Society

Favorite movie of 2010: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader

15. Is there anything else you would like to share with teen girls?

There are so many pressures for kids these days--good grades, finding the right friends, figuring out which activities to invest in, Facebook and texting, TV--try and not get too spread out and stressed out. God wants you to live a whole life, a life of deep investment, not just on the surface, and that takes time and energy. See where he's calling you to dial back a bit and give yourself time to grow up into the woman he wants you to be. Invest in him--your relationship with him--through reading the Word, hanging out with Christian friends, reading books about life with him, and figure out how to talk to him. He's your Best Friend--for life. And anything you do to deepen that relationship will only make your life better.

Make sure you check out Lisa's Website and Facebook pages!
Website: http://lisatawnbergren.com/
River of Time FB: http://www.facebook.com/riveroftimeseries
Lisa’ Fan FB Page: http://www.facebook.com/lisa.t.bergren#!/pages/Lisa-Tawn-Bergren/29354438694

**If you would like to win WATERFALL, please comment on the article below and include your name and email and you will be eligible to win.  
(If it does not let you comment, feel free to email: joyfilledgirls@hotmail.com)

Helping in the Harvest: Foster Families Part 1

OTHERS-Helping in the Harvest: Foster Families Part 1

I have often taken for granted the fact that I have a nice home and a loving family. I forget that many people, especially children, do not have that. Since my family became a foster family, I’ve learned that there are many children in the U.S. alone who need to feel the love of God and the good news of what He has done for us. Being a foster family is a great way to share God’s love with people who really need it.

Foster Care is a fairly wide category, but it usually refers to the temporary care of children who can’t live at their own home (mostly because of their parent’s neglect or abuse). The children are taken into the legal custody of the state and, if not able to live at relative’s home, are placed with a licensed foster family. Foster families take in these children and treat them as their own children. Most of the time, the children go back home after their parents have proven they can now take care of them, though occasionally fostering a child may end in adoption.

A Christian foster family has a unique ministry. My Grammy, who was a foster parent for 13 years, said this: “Just the fact that we are willing to share our lives, our love, and our home with those children in need is an example of Christ's love for others.” This example of Christ’s love is evident to the children a foster family takes in, the child’s parents, and even the social workers involved.

Pouring out love on a child that is hurting can be a difficult job. Foster families need people around them who are praying for them and are willing to lend a hand when needed. Try to take time this month to get to know a foster family near you.

“Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me does not welcome me but the one who sent me.”

Mark 9:37

How To Help

I mentioned that my grammy and papa were foster parents for 13 years. They took in many foster kids and even adopted one, so you may consider them experts on the topic. My grammy gave me some ideas of how to pray for foster families. Next month I’ll share more of her advice as well as how to get started as a foster parent.

Pray

-that the foster families/parents have the strength to cope with all the disturbing circumstances that they might end up in/with,
-that they get enough sleep!
-that they do not neglect their own health/well being,
-that they always remember that they are serving God as they serve the children,
-that the biological children will enjoy their new family members and enjoy this new time their family’s life.
-and for any other specific needs that the foster families may share with you.

Give

Give your time to a foster family in your area. It is often too easy to assume a foster family’s needs are already met. Get to know the family and let them know that you are willing to help. Be available to simply go over and talk or help out around the house. Even little things you do can be a big blessing for a foster family!

In Your Community

My grammy listed ‘just a few’ ways that you can support a foster family: being a praying support, a non-judgmental listening support, offering used clothing and items needed, stepping in to help out where needed, just being around to help them cope with problems, do errands, take the family's own kids out for special treats, treating the foster kids like normal kids, encouraging the foster parents, giving the kids (non-foster) in the family the opportunity to talk about things, encourage the foster families to share what their needs are so others can help...

“By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”

John 13:35

OTHERS - By Faith…Simeon and Anna

OTHERS - By Faith…Simeon and Anna

 Based off of Luke 2:21-38(Read the whole story there) All quotes are taken from the NIV Bible

Simeon and Anna were used by God in the very first Christmas story to show how much they trusted Him to send the world a Savior. Each day they lived “by faith” waiting for the coming Messiah.

Eight days after the child was born, it was time for Him to be circumcised. The Law of Moses said that “’Every firstborn male is to be consecrated to the Lord’”, and the parents should offer “a pair of doves or two young pigeons” as a sacrifice.

So Mary and Joseph took Jesus to be circumcised at the Temple in Jerusalem. At that time He was named Jesus, “the name the angel had given him before he was conceived”.

Now there was a righteous and devout man in Jerusalem named Simeon. “He was waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was on him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before he had seen the Lord’s Messiah. Moved by the Spirit, he went into the temple courts. When the parents brought in the child Jesus to do for him what the custom of the Law required, Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying:”

“’Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you may now dismiss your servant in peace. For my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all nations: a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of your people Israel.’”

Mary and Joseph were amazed at what was said about Jesus. “Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, his mother: ‘This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against, so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your own soul too.’”

~Simeon had faith in God that He would do what he had promised. He had faith that he would see the Messiah. And he had faith enough to say, “You may now dismiss your servant in peace”, because he knew his Savior had come. ~

“[Now] there was also a prophet, Anna... She was very old…and was a widow.” “She never left the temple but worshiped night and day, fasting and praying.” She also came up to the little family. “She gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem”.

~Anna also had faith. She had great faith in God and worshiped him around the clock. She was a widow and it appears she did not have family to take care of her because she was always at the temple. She had faith that the Child was truly the Savior and she went and told everyone! ~

God used these two people to show us their anticipation for the coming King, Jesus Christ. Anna and Simeon waited and waited for that day, the day when they would hopefully see their Messiah. They truly did live by faith and not by sight (2 Corinthians 5:7). And God rewarded them for it by letting them see the Christ Child. 

As Christmas approaches, are you anticipating the celebration of the birth of the Savior? And more importantly, are you anticipating the day that is still coming when we will meet Him face to face?

2 Corinthians 5:7 (NIV)

For we live by faith, not by sight.

OTHERS-Helping in the Harvest: Angel Tree

OTHERS - Helping in the Harvest: Angel Tree

Have you ever seen those Christmas trees covered with paper angels? Not just any paper angels, but ones that have the name of a child and what they would like for Christmas. Have you ever wondered what they are for? Or maybe why people walk up and take the angels?

Well, the “angel trees” are actually part of an outreach headed by a division of Prison Fellowship called Angel Tree (you could have guessed the name, right?) Angel Tree was made as a way to reach out to children whose parent or parents are imprisoned and can’t give them a gift this Christmas. At the same time, it shows both the children and their parents God’s love though the compassion of His people.

The program starts with Angel Tree Ministries and other prison ministries who sign up incarcerated parents who would like help to send a gift to their child. An angel-shaped tag is made with each child’s name, age, and what they would like for Christmas. These tags are distributed to local churches and stores who have signed up to participate in Angel Tree.

The churches and stores then set up their own “angel trees”. People can take a tag and buy a gift for the child. They wrap it and bring it back to the Angel Tree location. On the week of Christmas, the gifts are delivered to the kids with a note from their parent. While the gifts are being delivered, the volunteers get to share the real reason of Christmas with the kids. The children learn the joy of knowing that their parent still cares for them and that God cares for them too.

It is not just the kids, though, who grow closer to God through this ministry, but their parents as well. The parents see Christians who care enough to buy a Christmas present for a child they don’t even know. Then when it is given, those people don’t take any credit, but give it solely in the parent’s name. You can only imagine what the parents think when they witness this love and kindness.

Angel Tree is simple, but it makes such an impact. It helps to restore the relationship between a child and their parent. The gift opens doors to talk to people about God’s love. And what better thing to focus on as Christians than God’s love- especially during this time of year?

“...I was in prison and you came to visit me.”

Matthew 25:36b

How to Help

Do

Talk to your pastor or church secretary to see if your church is involved in Angel Tree. See if you can help coordinate it. Tell your friends about the ministry. Maybe your family could buy a gift for a child together. No matter how creative you get, remember to get the gift back on time! To find out more about Angel Tree go to http://www.prisonfellowship.org/deliverlove

Pray

Prayer is so important. Pray for the child your gift is going to as well as their parent. You can also look at http://www.prisonfellowship.org/deliverlove-stories and pray for the children in the stories featured there.

Give

Another fairly simple way to help is to give. Angel Tree has an online option for getting a gift to a child which is a great way to get involved if your church is not registered. You can choose a child based on age, gender, and the state they live in or let Angel Tree choose one for you. Go to https://www.prisonfellowship.org/deliverlove-gift for the online gift option or go to https://www.prisonfellowship.org/deliverlove-donate-now to support the ministry.

“And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones who is known to be my disciple, truly I tell you, that person will certainly be rewarded.”

Matthew 10:42

By Faith...Todd MacDonell

By Faith-Todd MacDonell 

Almost one month ago, October 13, a man that lived “by Faith” died. Todd MacDonell was 48 years old. He was married and had two daughters. He lived in a town near me and was the pastor of a local church.

I had not known this man very long. He had recently gotten involved in the political arena which I had also gotten involved in. Then at the end of the summer, he started getting sick. He had a disease called Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease. It is a disease that causes your brain to deteriorate. After the diagnosis, Pastor MacDonell lived only a few short weeks longer. Today he is with Jesus, his Savior and Lord.

But even though many feel his life was cut short and even though I did not even know him long, he was a man that made a difference. He lived his faith daily. You could see his hope, the hope of salvation, in his eyes. And he was bold. He lived boldly for Christ. He stood up for what was right and made an impact on every person that crossed his path.

His memorial service was unlike any I had ever been to before. We were able to celebrate his life here on earth, yet also rejoice that he is now with our Savior.

Hebrews 11:39-40 says, “These were all commended for their faith, yet none of them received what had been promised, since God had planned something better for us so that only together with us would they be made perfect”. I believe this means that only in Heaven are we truly rewarded for living “by faith” here. I want to remind you of how a life can be cut short by our standards, yet God knows everything and has a perfect plan for all of us. I also want you to remember to make every day count. Live each day like it is your last, because it may be, and above all, give your life to Christ. He is waiting for you to open the door. He is waiting for you to allow Him access to your life.

As Thanksgiving draws near, give thanks for all of the people that have made a difference in your life. Thank God for them and then thank them for being there for you, because you never know when your last chance to do that will be. Pastor Todd’s death made me realize that you should never take those people who have been there for you for granted. Thank them now!

~Mandy

Helping in the Harvest: Operation Christmas Child

Helping in the Harvest: Operation Christmas Child

One late fall afternoon, my brother stumbled upon something in a ditch on the side of the road. He thought it was just a piece of trash, but took a closer look anyway. As he picked it up, he got a real thrill. It wasn’t just a piece of trash, but a $20 bill!

About that time, our family was getting ready to do one of our favorite traditions- packing a shoebox for Operation Christmas Child. Operation Christmas Child, a ministry of Samaritan’s Purse, works to bring joy and the good news of Jesus to needy children all over the world. To do this, volunteers pack empty shoeboxes full of new toys and treats for children who might not otherwise get a Christmas gift.

Usually, everyone in my family will pitch in money and we’ll pack a shoebox together. This year, my brother had another idea. He decided to use the $20 he had found to pack another shoebox full of goodies. My family had fun picking out things for both shoeboxes. We picked out coloring books, crayons, pencils, toothbrushes, soap, dolls, stuffed animals, toy cars, bouncy balls, lollipops, yo-yos and any other thing else we could afford.

When we got home, we packed everything in our 2 designated shoeboxes. After we wrapped and labeled each one (marking what age and gender child the toys inside were best for), we added a little note wishing the child who received each box a “Merry Christmas”. Before we dropped them off at one of the drop-off locations, we prayed over the boxes, the workers who would deliver them, and the children who would receive them.

I love my family’s tradition of giving to others during what is sometimes the most selfish time of the year. Sometimes I get focused only on what I want for Christmas this time of year, but packing a shoebox for a child, who might have never received a gift before, puts things into perspective. Remembering that for a child, receiving a shoebox is often the first step for them to come to know God really takes the focus off of myself and puts it on the One whom Christmas is really about.

But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all people.”

How to Help

This year, Operation Christmas Child’s National Collection week is

November 15-22.

To find a drop-off location for your shoebox, go to:

http://www.samaritanspurse.org/index.php/OCC/Drop_Off_Locations/

Give

What better way to give than by packing a shoebox for a child in need? You could pack a box with your family or friends, or get really creative and throw a shoebox-packing party! Follow the guidelines to packing a shoebox at: http://www.samaritanspurse.org/index.php/OCC/Pack_A_Shoe_Box/
Packing a shoebox isn’t the only way to give. You can help spread the word about Operation Christmas Child or go to https://www.samaritanspurse.org/index.php/Giving/Project_Donations/ to donate to Operation Christmas Child or other ministries of Samaritan’s Purse.

Pray

This is a great way to help if you don’t pack a shoebox- or even if you do. You can pray especially for the workers who travel and work hard to get the boxes into the hands of children, and for the children themselves. If you want to be really involved, go to http://www.samaritanspurse.org/index.php/OCC/1khours and pledge your prayers for Operation Christmas Child by choosing a day and time slot to pray during National Collection week. To find additional prayer requests go to: http://www.samaritanspurse.org/index.php/Pray/pray_occ

Narnia Fans

Just like in Narnia, where it was always winter and they didn’t have Christmas until Aslan came; there are children in our world who never have the joy of Christmas until they have the love of Jesus. They are shown Christ’s love when the gift of a lovingly packed shoebox comes to them. Operation Christmas Child is partnering with The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader to encourage Narnia Fans to fill shoeboxes and make a difference in the lives of impoverished children around the world. Check out Operation Narnia at http://www.samaritanspurse.org/index.php/articles/operation_narnia/

“Whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me.”

Matthew 18:5

~Rachel

OTHERS Purpose Statement

OTHERS Purpose Statement

The OTHERS part is about putting other people after Jesus and before yourself. It is to help girls to learn ways that they can love and serve others in their lives and reach out to people.

Philippians 2:3-4
3-Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves.
4-Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.


Matthew 22:39
And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.

By Faith Purpose Statement

By Faith Purpose Statement

By Faith is based on Hebrews 11. Hebrews 11:1-2 says, “Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. This is what the ancients were commended for.” It is to show how people from history, the Bible, and today are living “by faith” and it is to provide examples of how you, also, are called to and can live “by faith”.

Helping in the Harvest Purpose Statement

Helping in the Harvest Purpose Statement

Helping in the Harvest will feature people sharing the gospel with people all over the world including wherever you live. Each month’s article will highlight someone different. It may be a missionary, a mission organization, or a charity, but they will all have the same goal- to teach others about the hope of Jesus. Helping in the Harvest is based on Matthew 9:37 where Jesus says, “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few.” Each article in Helping in the Harvest will show you how others are helping in the harvest and how you can, too!

Grandparent's Day-September 12th

Grandparent's Day-September 12th

I love Grandparents Day. I love to visit with my grandparents. I love to hear their stories. I love to learn from them. I just love to be around them.

But I thought that was all over when, two years ago, my family moved half-way across the country from both sets of grandparents. I was afraid we might never see them again, or, if we did, we wouldn’t know each other as well as we had. I looked bleakly at the future. No more visits. No more jokes. No more stories. No more hugs. No more of my grammy’s special cookies or cakes. No more of my grandma’s fun treats.

Since we’ve moved, however, I’ve learned a lot. I now know that my grandparents can still tell jokes and stories just as well on paper, computer, or over the phone as they do face-to-face, and that we did, in fact, get to see them again (and we still knew each other). Most of all, I’ve learned that God provides for our needs.

Over the past two years I’ve kept in touch with my grandparents through emails, phone calls, and the like. We probably communicate more now, than when we lived close to each other! My grammy and I email each other almost everyday and my grandma sends me handwritten letters. All of our communication helped us to continue to be close even though we live so far away.

Of course, part of living far away from your grandparents is that you can’t visit them very often, so I was excited when my family went on a trip this summer to visit our extended family. Squeezing all seven people in my family plus my Grammy and Papa into their one bedroom apartment gave us lots of time to spend together! Our Grandma and Grandpa had their 50th anniversary while we were there, and in celebrating they brought out a box of pictures, which we enjoyed looking at and learning the stories behind. I think God provided that trip so that we could be ready to come back home and face all the new challenges before us.

One of the other things God has provided for my family was a “grandma” and “grandpa” here at home. We got to know a really nice couple and started to spend a lot of time with them. They quickly became like grandparents to us, and we soon began to call them Granny and Grandpa. They never replaced our real grandparents at all; instead they helped us bear through the hardship of living so far away from family.

I still miss my grandparents, but I know God provides in wonderful ways. This Grandparents Day, think about how God has provided for you. Thank Him for your grandparents. Thank your grandparents for all they have done. Send them an email or letter. Give them a phone call or a visit. And remember them, not only on Grandparents Day or Christmas, but everyday. It could very well teach you a whole lot.

“Grandchildren are a crown to the aged...”

Proverbs 17:6

By Faith- Janet Pope

By Faith- Janet Pope

Remember the lady, Janet Pope, I was telling you about last month that memorizes whole passages and books of the Bible? Well, here she is! She is going to tell us more about her, her life, why she decided to memorize scripture, and some fun facts about her! And we will also learn how she is living “By Faith”, like Hebrews 11 talks about.

Interview~

JOY Blog-When did you become a Christian? How were you led to Christ?

Janet Pope-I did not grow up in church so I had no Bible background or religious training. When I was 21 years old, my mother was going through a very difficult time in her life. My sister and I decided that our mother needed God. Pretty profound for two girls who had no idea who God was! We began to take our mother to different churches in the hope of finding God, for her. After a few months I took her to a Bible believing church, we heard the gospel, and within a few months both my mother and I received Christ, and have been growing ever since.

JOY Blog-When did you decide to memorize passages? Why did you decide to memorize passages instead of just memorizing some verses?

Janet Pope-I was 35 years old and attending a Christian conference. A woman came to the podium and recited the entire book of Colossians. It was so powerful hearing the whole book together at one time. I thought to myself “I wish I knew God’s Word like she did”. I realized at that moment that I was pretty shallow in my Bible knowledge, and I had a deep desire to make a change.

JOY Blog-How do you do it?

Janet Pope-I write out what I want to memorize on a 3 x 5 spiral binder. Then I take one verse at a time and begin to memorize it, adding one more verse each day. I carry my spiral with me wherever I go. It sits easily on a counter and I can memorize while I do other things. Over the years I have learned to capture dead time for scripture memory. I memorize while I’m doing household chores, exercising, walking, driving, and getting ready in the morning. When I finish a chapter I take a week or so to review before going on to the next chapter. When I finish memorizing a book, I assign it to one of the days of the week so that I will make that my day to review that book every week, which helps it stay in my memory, while I go on to a new passage.

JOY Blog-What do you do when you feel overwhelmed about life? What do you do when you feel overwhelmed about memorizing Scripture?

Janet Pope-When I feel overwhelmed about life, which does happen on occasion, I run to God’s Word and it is always there for me. Life is unpredictable and always challenging. God’s Word is a stabilizing force because it is truth and it is from God.

When I am overwhelmed about memorizing Scripture, I take a break, while still reviewing, and then pick back up in a few days. Memorizing Scripture is not to be a burden but a joy. Sometimes the task ahead can seem overwhelming, like if you want to memorize Ephesians and you are only on chapter 2. My advice is to go at a pace that works for you.

JOY Blog-How has memorizing Scripture helped you to live “by faith” as Hebrews 11 talks about?

Janet Pope-Honestly, memorizing Scripture has been the biggest boost to my spiritual growth and maturity. Meditating on God’s Word day and night truly is like Psalm one says. It is like a tree planted by streams of water, continually nourished, never parched and dry. Romans 10:17 tells us that faith comes by hearing the Word of Christ. God’s Word continually in my mind and heart has been an oasis for my soul. When you look at Hebrews 11, you see people who persevered through all sorts of adversity. And every life is sprinkled with adversity, some have more than others. I have trials in my life and it is God’s Word that helps me to persevere, even when I can’t see the road ahead, or why my life has taken a detour.

JOY Blog-What is your favorite color?

Janet Pope-It used to be pink, but now it’s yellow.

JOY Blog-What is your favorite book?

Janet Pope-The Bible of course. Besides the Bible, “Let the Nations Be Glad” by John Piper.

JOY Blog-One material thing you wouldn’t leave home without?

Janet Pope-I go on a lot of speaking trips, and I always double check to make sure I didn’t forget my NOTES. I can’t always trust my memory!

JOY Blog-One food you don’t think you could live without?

Janet Pope-Definitely… dessert. I love sweets, wish I didn’t, but I’m not ready to give them up.

By Faith – Brother Andrew-- Risking Everything for God's Word

By Faith – Brother Andrew-- Risking Everything for God's Word

On May 11, 1928, a boy named Andrew was born in Holland. He was raised in a Christian home, but he wasn’t sure he liked it. He sneaked out of church as a child. As a young adult he joined the army to fight in WWII. All of the killing going on in the war hardened Andrew’s heart. He would shout to the enemy, “Shoot me if you can”. One day he was shot in his ankle and faced being crippled all his life.

While he was in the hospital recovering, he began to read his Bible, cover to cover. And he started going to church again. He finally realized that he needed to let go of his hard heart and give it over to the Lord. And from that day, his love for the Lord grew.

He then decided to go to seminary so he could become a missionary. He faced many trials through this time. But with God’s help he made it through.

His mission was to take Bibles into places where the Word of God was illegal and you were not allowed to take it into those places.

He has many stories like this one, but I am only going to tell you one this time. As he was coming up to one of the border check points to a country where Bibles were illegal, Brother Andrew started praying. His car was filled with Bible and tracts. He asked God to make the seeing eyes of the guards, blind. Each car in front of him was being totally unloaded and gone through. So he decided if he took a few of the Bibles out and put them in the front seat, maybe he wouldn’t lose them all. So he finally got up to the check point and he started to get out but the guard had his knee against the door holding it shut. The guard looked at Brother Andrew’s papers and his passport, then shoved them back at him and waved him on. Brother Andrew was stunned. He wasn’t sure what to do. Did the guard really mean for him to go on? He looked back at the guard through his rear view mirror and the guard was already going through the next car. Brother Andrew said, “My heart was racing. Not with the excitement of the crossing, but with the excitement of having caught such a spectacular glimpse of God at work!"

Brother Andrew had faith to take Bibles into countries where not many others had or even could. He had faith and trusted that God would be with him, to guide him and to protect him. He had faith that in the end, God’s will would be done.

Do you have the kind of faith to do something dangerous for God? Do you have the faith to provide God’s word to people even at the cost of your life? Would you take that chance?

Is God's Word important to you? Do you treasure it, love it, study it, memorize it? By faith, you can do all those things...

If you would like more information on Brother Andrew or on his organization, Open Doors USA, go to: http://www.opendoorsusa.org/ or check your library for books written by Brother Andrew.

By Faith…The Lost Son’s Dad

By Faith…The Lost Son’s Dad- Luke 15:11-32

Okay…since the theme of this month has a lot to do with Father’s Day, I decided to think of a father in the Bible that was a great example of a father. And while I am sure there are many, the first story I thought of was an uncommon one. The reason I say it is uncommon in because you do not usually think of the father in this story.

This story is the story of the prodigal son. Now some of you may know this story and while you can find the whole thing in Luke 15:11-32, I am going to summarize it here!

Jesus is telling the story and He says…

There was a man who had two sons. One day the younger of the two sons came up to his father and said, “Dad I want everything that is my share”. And guess what…the father gave it to him. So the son took his new found wealth and went off to the city. It didn’t take long and he spent it all and had nothing left. He then got a job feeding pigs. Yuck. And it gets worse. HE was so hungry that he wanted to eat what the pigs were eating. YUCK. So then the Bible said, “when he came to his senses, he said, ‘how many of my father’s hired men have food to spare, and here I am starving to death!’”. So he decided to go back and tell his father that he had sinned, he wasn’t worthy to be his son, and that he would like to be like one of his hired men. So he went off to do just that.

So the son was still a ways a way and his dad saw him coming. His dad was filled with compassion for him and ran to him and kissed him. So the son told him everything he had planned to tell him. Even after all of that the dad then told his servant to bring him a fine clothes (I bet he needed them) and to prepare a feast. So they celebrated! The father said this is his son who was dead and lost, but now is alive and found.

(There is more to this story so make sure you check it out, and make sure you see what the older
brother thought.)

So anyway this dad, he had faith. By faith, he gave his son his wealth and let him do what he wanted (and boy, did he have a lot to learn). By faith, the father trusted that God would work everything out for the good. By faith, the father did a hard thing by welcoming him back…and doing it joyfully.

By faith, he trusted, will you?

Mandy H.

Father’s Day Fun

Father’s Day Fun 

June includes Father’s Day. And now it is down to the wire and you are wondering what you are going to get your dad. Well remember when you were little and you made home-made presents? Well those are priceless gifts and meaning full. So here are some of those to help you remember and give you some tips for this year.

1. A hug-My dad would say this is the top one!
2. A homemade card
3. A coupon book-you still know how to make them!
4. A picture of yourself (and siblings…maybe in a frame) for his office or garage or car!
5. Index cards with Bible verses on them-always useful
6. A song played or song by you
7. An e-card-I like the silly ones(check out DaySpring e-cards)
8. Babysit your siblings to give both of your parents a night off
9. Spend the day as a family
10. Cook something or bake some cookies for him!
11. Have fun and be creative. A little bit of thought and a lot of caring and love goes a long way!

Mandy H.

By Faith-Mary, the mother of Jesus

Mother’s Day is coming up this month, so who is better to look at as a mother who lived by faith than one of the most famous mothers of all time? Mary, the mother of Jesus, is a great example of living by faith. Why? According to Hebrews 11:1, faith is “being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.” Mary did both.

Mary was sure of what she hoped for. As a Jew, she was waiting for the one promised to come and save her people: the Messiah. The Messiah had been promised centuries before, but still hadn’t come. People found it hard to keep believing after such a long time. But Mary believed. When God told her she was going to give birth to the Savior, her hope of seeing the Messiah came true.

Not only was Mary sure of what she hoped for, but she was certain of what she did not see. For centuries, the people heard God’s voice (Exodus 3), saw Him part waters (Exodus 14 and Joshua 3), and watched fire come down from heaven (1 Kings 18). They saw armies flee before the Lord (Judges 4), be routed by a smaller army (Judges 7), or by no army at all (2 Chronicles 32). They watched the sun stand still (Joshua 10) and move backwards (Isaiah 38). Angels appeared to many people while prophets prayed and did miracles (2 Kings 4-6).

Then nothing happened. There were no prophets, no miracles, no signs or wonders for over 400 years. It was as if God had just vanished; as if He wasn’t there. For centuries, the people waited. Many gave up on God. Not Mary. She was certain He was still there.

Though it was probably hard for Mary to be sure the Messiah would come and certain that God was still there, she did it. She held on to God’s promises and believed the truth. In every way she lived by faith. This month, commit to being like Mary. Live by faith. Hold on to God’s promises even when it seems like He isn’t there.

By Rachel R.

How Well Do You Know Your Mom?

How Well Do You Know Your Mom?

Here is a quiz to test your knowledge about your mom in honor of Mother’s Day!

For each statement that applies to you, give yourself a point. At the end, tally your score to see how much you know.

I know...

...my mom’s first name

...how to listen to her

...what not to buy her as a gift

...if she talks

...if she goes to church

...her middle name

...how to laugh and talk honestly with her

...what she likes to talk about

...if she really does love God

...her nicknames she had as a kid

...how to finish her sentences

...exactly what to get her for a present

...her favorite places

...if she prays for me

...her favorite color

...her favorite type of book

...her favorite food

...where she would go on vacation

...her favorite outfit to wear

How did you do?


0-7 points: You kind of know your mom
Hmm...You should work on getting to know your mom better. You could try going out on a “date” together and asking her questions. Maybe each day you could write her a quick note asking her something new like “What is your favorite flower?” or “If you were an animal, what would you be?” Also, having a journal to write back and forth to each other in is a good idea too.

8-15 points: You know your mom
Good job! You seem to know your mom pretty well. Keep learning about her and asking questions. If you have trouble figuring out what to give her for Mother’s Day, start by learning her favorite color, hobby, books, etc. Ask her what she might like (or if you think that is too obvious, ask what her favorite presents were in past years). If you still need help, ask your dad. He might have some ideas.

16-20 points: You really know your mom!
Wow! You know your mom inside and out! But just because you know her well doesn’t mean you should stop learning about her. She can be a great role model to you, so ask her opinion and advice on things. If this comes as a challenge, start small and pray that God will help you become more open with the mother he gave you.

By Rachel R.

By Faith -MaryLu Tyndall

By Faith -MaryLu Tyndall

This is an interview that I did with MaryLu Tyndall. She is a Christian writer who has written several pirate books. I have read all her books that have come out and am a big fan! Have fun learning more about her through this interview.

 For more information check out her Blog and Website:

Blog: http://www.crossandcutlass.blogspot.com

Website: http://www.mltyndall.com  

 JOY Blog: What were you like as a teenage girl?

MaryLu Tyndall: I was a very shy, awkward, insecure girl when I was a teenager. I was never in the popular groups and seemed to always be on the outside of the in crowd! I was chubby and had bad acne so I didn’t have many boyfriends. Many people who meet me now are very surprised to discover my past.

JOY: Tell us about your next book coming out.

ML: Surrender the Heart is the first book in a trilogy called Surrender to Destiny. It is the story of a lady in 1812 Baltimore who must marry a man she hates or her mother will die and her younger sister will become destitute. Trouble is, the man runs away from their engagement party to set sail for England. When she storms after him to force him to return, she ends up getting stuck on his ship and isn’t discovered until they are well out to sea. On the brink of the war of 1812, the couple finds themselves captured aboard a British War ship where they must rely on God and each other to survive. And to find their destiny!

JOY: Which book would you recommend for girls to read first?

ML: Why not start with my first book, The Redemption? 

It’s an adventurous love story between a handsome reformed pirate and a proper British lady who sails to the Caribbean in search of her father.

JOY: Which one of your books is your favorite?

ML: It’s hard to pick one. They each hold a dear spot in my heart. I feel as though all the characters are my best friends. I really enjoyed writing The Red Siren, which is a story about a female pirate! But Hope, the heroine in The Blue Enchantress is more like me, a fallen girl who was in desperate need of redemption.

JOY: Why did you choose to write pirate books?

ML: I’ve always loved pirates. Growing up on the warm beaches of South Florida, I used to dream about the adventures of the sea-faring rogues. When the first Pirates of the Caribbean movie came out, I became seriously interested in writing a story about a Christian pirate. I had never written a book before, but I found the idea so intriguing that I couldn’t stop myself. I see now that God was leading me into writing and that He gave me the idea. Out of that was born my first book, The Redemption.

JOY: Tell us about your salvation story. How did you come to know Jesus?

ML: I was 35 years old and had reached rock bottom after spending my life chasing all the things of the world I thought would make me happy. I had partied, drank, and spent my life running from God. I was on my second marriage and it was failing. My teenage children were out of control and I seriously wanted to die. On an impulse I found an old Bible I had kept from childhood, dusted it off and started reading it, desperate for answers and for meaning to my life. Somewhere in the middle, God miraculously made Himself known to me. I can’t explain it except it felt like a bright light flooded my entire body and I knew without a doubt that He existed and that the Bible was His word. My entire family at that time were atheists so I had quite an uphill battle. But God has been more than faithful!

JOY:  JOY is a blog for girls. Looking back at where you were to where you are now, what advice would you have given yourself when you were a teenage girl?

ML: Don’t listen to what the world tells you. It will lie to you and say that all that matters is what you look like. That you have to be thin and beautiful and have a great outgoing personality to be of any value. It will tell you that in order to be loved you should give your body away. It will tell you that sex equals love. That in order to have fun you should drink and do drugs and gather wealth around you. It is all a lie! Believe me. I’ve been there. All those things lead to depression, disappointment and destruction. If I could go back, I would fall on my knees before God and surrender my life to Him completely. I would follow Him all my days and cultivate my internal beauty by relying on His Holy Spirit. I would trust Him to guide me and provide for me a wonderful man who would love me for myself and never leave me or cheat on me. The Lord is the only one who can bring you true peace and happiness. Everything else outside of Him is useless garbage. Trust Him and see what happens!

JOY: How do you balance writing, family, and remain focused on God?

ML: I spend an hour each morning in prayer and Bible reading. I do it no matter how busy I am, no matter whether I’m under a tight deadline and I might be late in turning in my manuscript. It is the most important time of my day. Then during the day, I am in constant conversation with God. I talk to him as if He were right beside me. (Because He is) He’s always with you and He’s interested in every detail of your life. You are precious to Him!

JOY: When did you know you were meant to be a writer?

ML: Not until my first manuscript got contracted! Up to that point, I had always loved to write but had never submitted anything to a publisher. I told the Lord that if He wanted me to become an author, then He’d have to get this book published. And He did!

Now for some fun questions:

JOY: What is the one material thing you wouldn't leave home without?

ML: Sunglasses.

JOY: What is one of your secret ambitions?

ML: To be a professional dancer.

JOY: What is the one food you don't think you could live without?

ML: Popcorn

JOY: What is your favorite color?

ML: Black. Yes, I’m weird

JOY: What was your favorite book and movie growing up (or now)?

ML: Growing up: Book: The Last of the Mohicans. Movie: Gone with the Wind

Now: Book: Captain Blood by Raphael Sabatini Movie: The Conte of Monte Cristo

By Faith

By Faith

One thing that the Bible calls us to do is to “live by faith”. A saying that you hear a lot is, “Live by faith and not by sight”. Hebrews 11 talks a lot about people in the Bible that have lived by faith. Verses 32-38 says that, “time would fail me to tell of,” all of the people that have lived by faith. Hebrews 11:1-2 tells us what living By Faith is:

1-Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.
2- For by it the people of old received their commendation.

Each month a person will be picked to go in our “By Faith” section. It may be a person in the Bible, someone in history, or someone today that has lived or is living “By Faith”.

**Let us know if you have any ideas of people whether from history, the Bible, or nowadays, that you would like to see an article about.**