Jul. 31, 2006 - Haven't been here in a while
Well, hello friends...if there is anyone still reading...
I really do want to blog more often, I just struggle with the discipline of doing so. I have done a lot of surfing around the blogosphere this weekend and have been inspired again to use this outlet as a place to think things through. As evidenced by my last entry (personality styles), I need to engage my mouth (or my hands) for my brain to be working. And I value feedback (as long as it is nice 
~meaning you are allowed to disagree graciously).
Anyways, BooMama is hosting a Tour of Homes and I have enjoyed popping in and seeing how others decorate and where they live. I did not participate...but if she does the Christmas Tour, I just may. I love Christmas...and a tour just might inspire me to pull out the stops when decorating!!
As I have been visiting the various homes/posts, I have seen many blogs I would like to visit again...and a few whose beliefs don't really line up with my own. You know what? I am not going to change their heart in one single comment...in fact, I am not going to change their heart AT ALL!! That is the Holy Spirit's job. It grieved my spirit to see so many Christians who felt compelled to make (what was percieved by the "sinner") judgemental comments rather than just leaving a nice post about that persons home and perhaps through more friendly posts, winning them over time. My heart hurts for those who don't know Christ yet, or for whatever reason, have turned from him during this season in their life. But how does it help them if they recieve judgemental comments from people they don't even know? Does that soften their heart towards Christ? Does it make them open to listening to Christians who may already be in thier circle of friends/influence?
Just some random thoughts floating around...
Comments
Jul. 31, 2006 - Untitled Comment
Posted by quietcajun
I totally agree with you... the way to soften a person's heart is NOT with criticism and condemnation! You are right and I applaud you for taking the time to blog about it!
Aug. 3, 2006 - Untitled Comment
Posted by TOSPUBLISHER
Thank you for stopping by my blog and leaving your kind comments. It is mind boggling isn't it to think of all those women teachers?
The tour of homes was interesting. There were some very beautiful homes.
-gena
www.TheHomeschoolMagazine.com
Aug. 3, 2006 - Hi Phyllis!
Posted by Anonymous
I wanted to come over here to your place and say "hi"... I'm so glad to *meet* you! Those are some great thoughts, and so true. It grieves my heart to hear and see Believers interacting so calously and insensitively toward non-Believers as well. *sighs*
I wanted to thank you for leaving me your encouraging comment, and thought I'd leave my reply here to make sure you got to see it.
Thanks for leaving comments when you do, I love hearing from you. ;) I too have been fascinated with Jewish culture and our Hebraic heritage as believers and followers of Jesus. No, I’m not a Messianic Jew, but my family definitely shares a heart and passion for Israel, and learning more about our rich heritage as sons and daughters of Abraham, and all that being “grafted in” entails. This journey into studying and celebrating Biblical Feast Days and learning the Messianic/Prophetic significance of them, as well as studying the Scriptures within their cultural context, has done so much to enrich and ground our faith. And as we learn, we realize more and more how much the Church in general has lost since she’s been (purposely) alienated from her roots, her very foundation, over the centuries.
Oh, you’re welcome. I’m so glad to share, and it’s so nice to hear from you and others from time to time, to know that you’re around and actually enjoying my blog. ;) Often times I do get frustrated because I just don’t find the time to share everything I’d like to, nor study as much as I’d like. But oh well, I’m sure that will always be the case.
Yes, I do enjoy historical fiction tremendously! Another friend had also recommended Thoene’s books to me awhile back. Thank you for reminding me. I went and checked out a couple of her books from the library today - finally. wooo-hooo!
Only thing is, if they’re really good, I may have a hard time getting anything else done around here! Good fiction is dangerous for me~ and we’re suppose to be starting back to our schoolish routines and such next week, yipes!
blessings,
Beth
http://brewcrew.homeschooljournal.net/
Aug. 4, 2006 - Untitled Comment
Posted by Anonymous
You might be interested in Pajama Mama's warm fuzzy post, which encourages all bloggers to go leave positive comments. I think you and she are on the same page :D http://thepajamamama.com/?p=143
I found your comments interesting. As a Pagan, I'm always interested in seeing how others live their faith. Thanks for sharing a glimpse into yours and your exhortation for others to walk their spiritual path with integrity.
Rebecca
http://faeriedust2001.blogspot.com
Aug. 7, 2006 - Untitled Comment
Posted by mom2ZAW
I have had many of those same thoughts about people in my life from my sister to my neighbor up the street. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on the matter.
