by McKenna Smith

“But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace.”
(James 3:17-18)

Dear sisters, you are the beloved of God, His precious daughters, and beautiful heirs. It is not Christ’s desire that you think critical thoughts – about yourselves or others.

Today I would like to discuss first of all what might be the cause of our (often all too hasty) criticisms of others. How do we breathe God’s grace into the lives of others?

Sisters, are we finding our identity and our purpose and our joy in Jesus? Is He our Audience of One? If this is not the case, then our security is lost. The truth of it is we are each born insecure and only find that true, deep security in Christ. Please, let us not blame “personality” for something that every daughter of God should conquer. I am by nature a quiet, reserved individual. It has taken the grace of God and many years of careful cultivation to develop a spirit of genuine focus upon others and their needs, especially in large group settings. I still fall very far short. But His grace is at work and He continues that work which He has begun in me.

Sisters, He is doing the same for you. So, seek Him for security that enables you to step outside of yourself and into the lives, heartaches, and challenges of others. He wants to use you in such mighty ways in the lives of your brothers and sisters in Christ. Criticism stems from a lack of this kind of Christ-like love. When we are insecure about ourselves, our appearances, our mannerisms, where we “fit in” in our circles, etc…we are far more prone to stop viewing people as loved by Christ and to start viewing them as our judges. This lends itself to a judgmental spirit.

The cycle does nothing to build up the body of Christ. Believe me – I have been caught in it. Also, I have had the sad experience of witnessing the harmful outcomes of this lack of security in Christ. The enemy works to tear down the body of Christ by turning our eyes from Christ and onto ourselves. If you wish to stop being critical of others, first you must forget yourself completely in the reality of Who JESUS is and what His magnificent grace has done for you. As Paul did in Galatians:

“But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by Whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world. For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth anything, nor uncircumcision, but a new creature. And as many as walk according to this rule, peace be on them, and mercy, and upon the Israel of God. From henceforth let no man trouble me: for I bear in my body the marks of the Lord Jesus. Brethren, the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen.”
(Galatians 6:14-18)

Sisters, Jesus Christ went to the cross for you. In Him, you are a new creature. His grace has been poured out upon your spirit!

This grace is extravagant. It captivates our hearts and is meant to keep us marveling. God is holy. Sin can never be in His Presence. But God wanted His people near Him, glorifying His Name, delighting in His statutes, living forever with Him. So He sent JESUS, the propitiation for our sins, the Redeemer of His people. This is grace. Because it is us being given what we don’t deserve. So far above and beyond what we deserve. Grace is undeserved kindness that we get to live in light of every single day – and that we get to pour out to others.

We wake in the morning and make a choice. We walk into a room and make a choice. We go to church and make a choice. We can choose grace that builds up over destructive criticisms. Paul wrote the Philippians, “Do all things without murmurings and disputings: That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world” (Philippians 2:14-15). When we choose to forsake murmurings and disputings, we not only claim a place as blameless sons of God but we also shine light in the world. Light reveals truth, it dispels lies, and it points people back to the God of light.

Please join me in this glorious endeavor, sisters. Let us love God in how we love each other. He is working in the lives of His children in such precious ways. We can embrace diversity as He does or we can be quick to judge, tearing down others. God looks upon the heart and it is His place to judge.

What can we do today to replace criticism with grace in our own hearts?

1. We can seek Jesus to obtain security in Him alone. Let us be sure our confidence is founded upon the solid Rock of Christ, that our hearts are washed spotless by His blood, that we rejoice in His grace every day.
2. We can forsake judgment of the saints, bringing to mind that he who is forgiven much loves much (Luke 7:47). Sometimes we are called to administer grace to others by speaking truth in love (Ephesians 4:15). We will know when that time comes if we remain surrendered to Jesus. But we will never know when that time is right if we harbor critical attitudes and bitter thoughts.
3. We can invest in our relationship with Jesus Christ before anything else. Delight yourself in Him and He will show you the way, His Spirit will lead, He will be faithful, and you will have peace in abundance. Remember, “the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace” (James 3:18). He will fill your soul with that wisdom which is from above that “is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy” (James 3:17).

Beloved of Jesus, I would encourage you to take time to be still before Him today. Lay before Him your mistakes and your brokenness. Trust Him to fill all your empty places. Yield yourself, body and soul, to His eternal purposes. It is then that His grace will come pouring out of your life in the most astounding ways.

– McKenna 

---

If you’re interested in writing a guest post for KBR Ministries, click here.

by Paige K.

“But now, O Lord, Thou art our Father;
we are the clay, and Thou our Potter;
and we all are the work of Thy hand.”
(Isaiah 64:8)

When you see a stranger coming your way, do you long to run and hide?

Would you rather retreat to your special book nook than go to a crowded, noisy event? Do you find yourself wondering why solitary confinement is even a punishment? If you answered “yes” to those questions, you are most likely an introvert.

Introverts are the opposite of extroverts, who thrive and receive energy from being around other people. The dictionary defines an introvert as “a shy, reticent (reserved or withdrawn) person.” As an introvert, I often need time to recharge my “internal battery,” especially after a big dose of social interaction. I often feel drained mentally and energetically. I am not afraid of people; I simply am energized on quiet time.

Some introverts tend to be afraid to talk to anyone. They often experience social anxiety and have very few friends. The majority of introverts are more social introverts, however. They can carry on conversations and often have a few close friends they enjoy spending time with. Being a social introvert myself, I can interact with others, but I don’t like being in large groups of people. I would much rather curl up with a good book or knitting project than being at a large noisy gathering.

Unfortunately, you can’t read for a living! No matter what occupation you have, it will involve interactions with people. God has placed us in this world for a purpose, and we are to share the love of Christ with others. When I realized that my previous dream of living in a tiny log cabin filled with yarn, tea, and books in the middle of nowhere was neither healthy or likely to happen, I began to ask the Lord for direction. “God,” I questioned, “how can I function rightly if I don’t like social interaction? Can You use an introvert like me?” This article is the result of the lessons I have learned, and am still learning, from the Lord.

1. Learn to communicate.

It is necessary to be able to communicate effectively.  A good way to apply smooth conversation skills is to practice with your family and close friends. Think of icebreakers before engaging in a conversation.

However, don’t be afraid of comfortable silent breaks during a discussion. Proverbs 10:19 says, “In the multitude of words there wanteth not sin: but he that refraineth his lips is wise.” Sometimes silence speaks louder than the most elegant speech.

It is also good to know your limitations. I become short-tempered and easily disturbed when I do not have quiet time. I’m learning to simply tell my family how I am feeling and take appropriate measures, so I prevent getting to a stage of bottled up frustrations that come out in a hurtful way!

2. Interact with others.

Service to God and His people is a very important aspect of a Christian’s life, no matter what personality you have. When we lay down our lives to serve others, we are often blessed by the Lord. Service is also a great way to socialize and meet like-minded people. Although this may not come easily to you, cultivating solid friendships rooted in Christ is essential. However, you don’t have to try to be a bubbly socialite either. Focus on others around you and be a blessing to them.

3. Be a prayer warrior.

One very active role of service that introverts can play is that of a prayer warrior. Prayer is one of the best ways to serve both God and others. One way to make sure you incorporate prayer into your Christian life is to have a “prayer board.” In our kitchen is a whiteboard with both a “prayer” and a “praise” side. When we receive a prayer request or a good update, we put it on the board and pray from the board at meals. It is a great way to keep track of the numerous prayer requests and praises from our friends and family.

4. Find a talent with which to bless others.

There are a couple of gifts that the Lord has given me that I have used to bless others without making me feel anxious. Singing is one of those gifts. Whether I am performing for one or 100, I forget the people I am singing for and turn my focus to my audience of One: my sovereign King. I give 100% of my effort to please the Lord.

5. Serve behind the scenes.

Helping in the church kitchen or nursery are wonderful ways to serve your church body. Volunteers who help in these areas make it possible for others to fellowship and mothers to focus on the sermon—no matter how mundane a job may seem, it makes a huge difference and blesses others!

6. Don’t judge.

I sometimes shy away from individuals I would deem “different,” silently judging their quirks instead of seeing their hearts. This is not a loving, Christ-like attitude: we should look past their differences (while not condoning sinful behavior) and converse with others simply because we truly care about them and want to share the love of Jesus with them.

So can God use introverts?

The answer is yes—whether you are an introvert or an extrovert, you can be used by the Lord in powerful ways. God created you and equipped you with the gifts you need to bless others. He is the Potter and you are the beautiful work of His hand.  Don’t let your personality keep you from spreading God’s love to the people you meet. He made you exactly the way you are for a reason: to bring Him glory and honor!

-Paige

---

If you’re interested in writing a guest post for KBR Ministries, click here.

---

Monthly Wallpaper and Lockscreen

by Andrea Nymeyer

“Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give His life a ransom for many.”
(Matthew 20:28)

One summer, my family and I were visiting with some friends.

During supper conversation, my sister and I chatted with the oldest daughter about our role as daughters living at home. Our friend said, “We are able to serve. That is so important.” Though it was a passing statement, I have not forgotten it.

As I watched her that day, I saw that service was not just something my friend spoke of. Rather, she exemplified a servant’s spirit. When a small child spilled his drink, she was the first to jump and clean it up; when it was time to clear the tables, she was the first to pick up a dish; when the sink began to fill with dirty dishes, she was the first to begin to wash. Over and over I watched as she saw and met the needs of everyone around her. “Truly,” I thought, “This girl has learned to serve!”

Several months later, while doing my personal devotions, my mind went back to that conversation with my friend.

I was reading in my Bible about Joseph in prison and saw an amazing thing. Genesis 40:4 says, “And the captain of the guard charged Joseph with them, and he served them.” Wait! Joseph was in charge! Why was he serving those over whom he had authority? This is a great insight into Joseph’s later greatness. God exalts those who have learned to serve others. Whether we are in charge of younger siblings, leading a Sunday school class, or supervising a kitchen cleaning crew, we must remember to be aware of others’ needs. A position of authority is not an occasion to exalt ourselves, but it is an opportunity to serve more people in a greater capacity. Rather than pushing our own way, we should prefer others and realize that someone else’s way of doing something may truly be better than ours (Philippians 2:3). Do not copy the mistake of King Rehoboam. He was counseled to serve his subjects, but because he refused to follow this wise counsel, he lost the very people he was to have led (1 Kings 12:7).

After discovering that Joseph served his charges, I thought of two of my favorite servants in the Bible…

Most of us probably think of Jesus as the ultimate servant, and rightly so. He served His followers and those who He was trying to reach. Jesus tirelessly fed, healed, and ministered to hundreds of people. Most of the people He served did not follow Him. They did not love Him. They came to Him to get what they could for themselves, and then they crucified Him. Jesus served them regardless. If we are ever to reach the world who is lost and dying in sin, we must be willing to serve people. We must serve those who are ungrateful and unlovely and will never return our love and service. We must remember that our goal is to lead people to Jesus, and that it will be worth it in heaven if just one comes to know Him because of our service. People will listen to someone who has helped them. In order to reach people for Christ, we must reflect His servant’s spirit.

“And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.”
(Matthew 25:40)

The story of Isaac and Rebekah is one of my favorite Bible stories. I love the fact that God so obviously orchestrated their marriage, and that He did it in such a beautiful manner. We must not miss the fact that, before Rebekah was led to her husband, she was serving her family. In fact, she would never have been found by Abraham’s servant had she not served him by watering his camels. She probably had to go to the well every day and I am sure the job became “mundane” to her, yet she was doing the mundane when God chose to bless her. Mundane jobs are just as important, if not more important, than the exciting jobs. Mundane jobs are the circumstances in which we truly learn to serve.

When a daughter sees something that needs to be done at home, she should be the first to help.

Pick up a dishcloth, wipe down a counter, fold the laundry, grab a Band-Aid, fetch supplies… Never fall prey to the thoughts that, “Someone else will do it,” or “It’s not my job.” That may be true. Someone else may pick up the slack, but why should they have to? God put each of us in our specific homes so that we can be a blessing to our families. Don’t become a leech when you should be a servant.

Serving is fulfilling. It is a joy to know that you have helped another person. It can be hard to become motivated, especially when the task is unpleasant, but after the work is accomplished, the satisfaction of knowing that you’ve been a blessing is worth the time and effort. Even if no one notices your service, remember that you serve for the Lord, and the most important thing is that He is pleased. No matter if you never receive human praise, the Lord can give fulfillment in work that is well done. Ultimately, He should get the glory no matter who notices or overlooks your service. Whether you’re in a position of authority reaching out to lost people, or simply living out your life at home, serve others in order to bring glory to the Lord. Your Savior will fill your life with joy and fulfillment as you follow His example.

-Andrea Nymeyer

---

If you’re interested in writing a guest post for KBR Ministries, click here.

---

Current Issue of KBR Magazine: Faithful Stewardship

---

Desktop Wallpaper and Smartphone Lock Screen

by Paige B.

The thought of having our very own home, with our very own husband and children one day, gives us a tingle of excitement.

Some of us may be very optimistic type girls, and we picture this future home as being a beautiful, peaceful haven with darling perfect little children and a husband who adores us and tells us so every day!

Having our own joy-filled Christian home one day is a beautiful, God-given desire. However, we must be using the years God has given us right now to prepare ourselves to be godly wives and mothers. Many times I’ll watch my Mom perform a certain task, work through a sibling disagreement, or proficiently manage many things at one time; and I think, “Wow, I have so much to learn!” When I stop and think about the responsibilities that come with having a home to manage, a husband to passionately love, respect, and obey, and children to answer to God for; I ask God to help me use these years responsibly and make me fit for such a great task!

How do we prepare for our future homes? How can we begin to bless our future family now?

First of all, begin with your relationship with Jesus.

If you’re going to be prepared for the future, you must start with the One who holds the future. Where is your relationship with God? Are you in full communion with Him? Do you know His love for you? Is your heart totally given to Jesus? Are you only trusting in His love and grace for you? We can’t be what we need to be in our own power—we’d just end up miserable failures. We can’t prepare ourselves to be future wives and mothers when we aren’t truly walking with Jesus. We can’t (even with our wonderful husbands) train the next generation to love and serve God—without knowing and loving Him ourselves!

I’ve watched my parents work through so many issues on their knees. My siblings and I know that we definitely wouldn’t be what we are today if Mom and Dad hadn’t prayed and sought God with many tears for victory. It has been God’s grace through their prayers that changed our hearts. My mother’s prayers have sprung from her strong relationship with Jesus.

Do you really love God and have a heart totally given to Him? Is He working through you to conquer the things you struggle with each day, so you don’t carry them over into your future marriage and family? (If you struggle with character issues now, they will only be magnified in marriage!)

I would challenge you to delve into 1 John and truly see the deep, unfailing love that God has for you. Take time to pour out your heart to the Father who loves YOU so much He sent His only Son to die for YOU! He is your Good Shepherd—every pasture He leads you through is for your best. When you truly see the love of God for you, your heart will just naturally respond in deep love for Him. “We love Him, because He first loved us” (1 John 4:19). Make it important to always spend daily time with Jesus—no matter how many “good things” we may be doing, it doesn’t matter if we aren’t growing in God’s love and our relationship with Him.

Another way to prepare for your future home and family is to embrace where God has you.

Wherever you currently are, whether serving your family, ministering to grandparents, ministry with others, or whatever it may be, thank God for where He has you right now! It’s the best way to prepare, because it’s right where God wants you and can use you best.

Contentment is vital! Too often we think that “preparing for the future” is more important than serving Jesus right now. What if you may not be able to take classes at your local college because your mom needs your help teaching and training your younger siblings? Embrace and serve those little siblings—God knows they’re preparing you more than anything else can right now. You may not be able to sew all the little girl dresses and homemade things to put in your hopechest, because you have elderly grandparents to take care of and minister to. Be thankful, embrace where God has placed you, love those needy elderly grandparents, and serve them with cheerfulness! When our hearts are right, God will take care of the rest.

Finally, use your time wisely, dear girls!

The days are short and we must redeem the days God gives us. With the spare hours and minutes that God gives you each day, use them to prepare for your future family and home in the following ways:

• During your time with the Lord every day, take a few minutes to pray for your future husband and children—our heavenly Father isn’t one of time and space; He remembers our prayers far after we humans have forgotten. Read Psalm 139!
• Take the time to learn first aid and basic emergency response skills; these could save your child’s life or some other child’s life someday.
• Read challenging books and learn new skills that could be of use in the future. Strive to always be learning and growing and progressing spiritually, physically, and mentally.
• Prepare yourself for the physical rigours of motherhood by girding your body with strength (Proverbs 31:17)—through exercise and nutrition. Wisely steward the temple God has given you so you are equipped to serve Him to the fullest!
• Enlist your family and friend’s help at birthdays, Christmas, or other holidays in helping you build your hopechest with useful things for your future home. You can also save special things that have been part of your life and girlhood, for your future daughters!
• Learn from your mother. God gave us amazing moms who are just waiting to pass on a wealth of knowledge if we are just willing to listen and learn. Your mom will love teaching and showing you all the shortcuts and special ways she has discovered to run a home more efficiently. Don’t shrug it off—“Mother’s way” is often the best way.

These are just a few ways to begin preparing for the future and bless your future family. Use the days God has given you—these years pass by so fast—and see every circumstance you face today as God’s tool to perfect you into what He wants you to be!

Sisters, I encourage you to hold your dreams, preparations, and hopes for your future home in an open hand before God.

Be willing to let Him do with them what He will—He may bless and grow them for His glory or He may replace them with something far better. Adore and lift Him up as you serve Him right where He has you. As He leads you, use your time wisely to prepare for your future. Live for eternity!

Paige (21) is a joyful daughter of our loving heavenly Father. Her greatest passion in life is to bring glory to her King and be a channel of his love to the hearts of others. She teaches piano and violin and spends most of her time serving her family in all the little day-to-day duties of life. In her spare time, she’s either playing volleyball with her siblings, sewing, blogging, or writing about things God has laid on her heart. Her deepest desire is that you too may know the unfailing love God has for you as you journey heavenward.

---

If you’re interested in writing a guest post for KBR Ministries, click here.

---

Read the New Issue of KBR Magazine: Cultivating a Heart at Home!

---

Desktop and Smartphone Wallpaper