August 2013 – Renaissance Ideal

Pink Sunday!

August 28, 2013August 28, 2013by renaissanceideal2 Comments

I absolutely love these shoes. When I saw it at Russell & Bromley’s sale, it had my name all over it lol. I love how the shoes are two-toned with pink and nude. The studs give a little edge to these elegant sandals. Something about the shoe says- ‘girls get ready we are lunching’- lol!

I think it is sold out online, but Russell & Bromley have the nude and black version. These are great for the Autumn and Winter season.

Check it out here the Russell & Bromley ‘Vixen’ (Black version).

Check it out here the Russell & Bromley ‘Vixen’ (Nude version)

It reminds me of the iconic Valentino Rockstud Sling backs. The difference is that Russell & Bromley’s ‘Vixen’ has less straps, is a full sandal and of course the price lol.

Kurt Geiger has something similar also. This is KG Kurt Geiger’s ‘Cally’. It comes in Red and Black

Check it out here- KG Kurt Geiger’s ‘Cally’ (Red)

Check it out here- KG Kurt Geiger’s ‘Cally’ (Black)

Stay Blessed

Faith

Word Of The Week- Friendship (25/08/13-01/09/13)

August 28, 2013August 28, 2013by renaissanceideal1 Comment

Happy Tuesday! The word for this week is friendship. I am blessed to have wonderful friends and I always thank God for their lives. What is the meaning of friendship? What does a friend mean to you? I believe that friendship consists of loyalty, kindness, generosity, love, support and care. Friendship can be described as the state of being a friend or a friendly feeling or intimacy. A Friend means someone who is attached to another by feelings of affection or personal regard; person who gives assistance; a person who is on good terms with another. But what does the Bible say about friendship?

1) Friendship has to be healthy

Friendship is love and affection. There should not be any abuse or wrongs held by anyone in the friendship.

1 Corinthians 13:4-8- “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonour others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres”.

A true friendship would not hold any of these things-envy, selfishness, boasting, jealously, pride, anger, bitterness or grudges. True friends rejoice with their friends when something great has happened. For example when your friend has got a promotion, you will be happy for them and thank God. Someone who is negative and does not wish the best for you is not a friend. However when someone hopes to see you be the best person you can possibly be, you should consider he or she a friend. Verse 5 of 1 Corinthians 13 reminds us that a friend can tell you the real and it will still be love. Don’t always think when a friend is correcting you, that they are against you- it is for your benefit. Proverbs 27:6 shows that it is better to have a friend who can tell you the truth which may hurt, rather than having someone kiss your butt! I know when my friends give me real, they are doing it because they love me. A true friend will tell you what you need to know, not what you want to hear! If a friendship is all about me, me, me-girl its not healthy! A friendship consists of two people, it is not self-seeking. A friendship does not hold ill thoughts against the other.

2) Friendship-Unconditional love

We discover who are true friends are through tough times. We know who are brothers and sisters are, when we are going through a hard time. The friends I am describing are people who are not only with you in the good times, but also in the not so good times-that’s real friendship! I love my friends because they accept me with both my strengths and weaknesses.

Proverbs 17:17-A friend loves at all times,
and a brother is born for a time of adversity.

The Bible says a friend should love at all times, regardless of the circumstances. We are imperfect beings, all of us are bound to make mistakes. A good friend would not take our mistakes and hold it as grudges. A friend would ask for forgiveness, or forgive their friend and keep it moving.

3) Friendship- Sacrifice

The bible says there is no greater love then when a friend lays down their life for us. Jesus is a great example of this. Jesus laid down his life for us all, so that we all may have salvation. Jesus showed real love and was not self-seeking. He cared for people and put others’ needs before his own. Jesus said let God’s will be done before his own.

John 15:13- Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends

This means by putting your friend’s needs above your own, not being selfish. This could be praying for your friend like you pray for yourself. You will be loving like Jesus, with this kind of love.

4) Friendship- Trust and loyalty

Trust and loyalty are important qualities to have in a friendship. There has to be trust in the friendship, so that you have confidence in sharing your life with them. There also has to be loyalty, so you can expect your friend to be dependable, reliable, faithful and sincere.

Proverbs 18:24- One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.

However you have to be careful. Trusting easily can lead to ruin, it is best to trust a few loyal friends. This then will lead you to find a friend who you consider a brother or sister.

The Greatest Friendship in the Bible- David and Jonathan

One of the greatest examples of friendship in the Bible is David and Jonathan. Jonathan was loyal to David. Their friendship was like a brotherhood. The friendship between them was a covenantal relationship. In 1 Samuel 18:1-5, they formed an agreement. This is seen in 1 Samuel 20:14-17;42 & 1 Samuel 23:16-18 where they made an agreement that Jonathan was to be David’s second in command and for David to protect his family. David kept his promise, by seating Jonathan’s son Mephibosheth at his table (2 Samuel 9). These two men had a very good friendship . Their friendship showed sacrifice, loyalty, comprise, trust and emotional attachment. Their relationship is an example of a real friendship. Jonathan sacrificed his right to the throne, knowing God’s will for David to be King of Israel. He gave him his clothes and weapons recognising that David was a king. Jonathan was also loyal to David, warning him of his father King Saul’s anger towards him. No jealousy, no ill thinking, no me- me-me, it’s all about me. It was selfless, kindness, trust and generosity. We should learn from David and Jonathan’s friendship!

Be aware….

Friendship has negative aspects too. Some ‘friends’ can lead us into sin, some can lead us away from God. Some ‘friends’ will give us bad advice, some ‘friends’ will use you for their benefit. Some ‘friends’ can put doubt and fear into our hearts, so we lose faith and hope. Some ‘friends’ hold grudges that last forever. Some ‘friends’ will gossip about you. Some ‘friends’ will kiss your cheek but stab you in your back. The Bible warns us of ‘friends’ such as these, the best thing is to stay away from them.

Roll with people that love you and want the best for you!

Here are some bible verses on friendship:

1 Samuel 18:1-3 (NIV)-After David had finished talking with Saul, Jonathan became one in spirit with David, and he loved him as himself. From that day Saul kept David with him and did not let him return home to his family. And Jonathan made a covenant with David because he loved him as himself.

Proverbs 27:5-6 (NIV)-Better is open rebuke than hidden love.Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses.

John 15:13-15 (NIV)-Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. You are my friends if you do what I command. I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you.

Proverbs 17:17 (NIV)-A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.

Proverbs 27:9 (NIV)-Perfume and incense bring joy to the heart,
and the pleasantness of a friend springs from their heartfelt advice.

Proverbs 22:24-25 (NIV)-Do not make friends with a hot-tempered person, do not associate with one easily angered, or you may learn their ways and get yourself ensnared.

Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 (NIV)-Two are better than one,
because they have a good return for their labour:If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls
and has no one to help them up

Proverbs 22: 11 (NIV)-One who loves a pure heart and who speaks with grace will have the king for a friend.

Proverbs 12:26 (NIV)-The righteous choose their friends carefully,
but the way of the wicked leads them astray.

Proverbs 16:28 (NIV)-A perverse person stirs up conflict,
and a gossip separates close friends.

Proverbs 18:24 (NIV)-One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.

Proverbs 27:17 (NIV)-As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.

Stay Blessed

Faith

Great Women Of The Bible Challenge- Dorcas (Tabitha) & Elizabeth

August 27, 2013August 27, 2013by renaissanceidealLeave a Comment

I hope you all had a lovely bank holiday weekend. Great women I looked at was Dorcas and Elisabeth.

Dorcas (Tabitha)- The woman full of good works

Bible Reference-Acts 9:36-43

Family background-There is no mention of Dorcas’ family history.

Name meaning- Dorcas is the Greek translation of the Aramaic name Tabitha. The meaning of the name is gazelle.

Who is Dorcas?

We are introduced to Dorcas in Acts 9:36 as a disciple. This means that she was a Christian. Her name is given as Tabitha, but the Greek equivalent is Dorcas. She lived in the seaport town of Joppa. The Greek variant of her name and her residence highlights the fact she would have been surrounded by Greek speaking people.

Why is Dorcas great?

Dorcas’ story shows greatness as she accepted responsibility as a disciple in her community. She gave her life to those in need. The bible describes her as always doing good and helping the poor. This suggests that she she dedicated her life to philanthropy and charity work. So many of us wish to do this, we talk but will never do. Dorcas not only talked about it but she carried out her plans.

The scripture describes the time of her death as a very sad time. When she died, they sent for Peter who was in a nearby town to urgently come. This suggests that she was highly respected and loved. It seems that she was a person, that many in her community cared about. When Peter went, the widows stood around him crying. They even showed him the clothes that Dorcas had made for them. This demonstrates that Dorcas’ death was a big blow to her community.

However, Peter prayed for the dead Dorcas and she got up, opened her eyes and when she saw him sat up. Peter called in the believers and especially the widows to see what God had done. The Bible says that this miracle was known all over Joppa and because of this, people found God. I believe that that the resurrection of Dorcas had a twofold effect. The first effect that it had was when Peter called the widows. He did this so they will be encouraged in the Lord- that God is great and can do all things. It would have brought comfort to Dorcas’ mourners that her life of charity work was not over. Secondly, I believe that the miracle was to bring people to believe in God. It was not a coincidence. The miracle was to show God’s glory, so that people will be saved. Dorcas was a blessed woman- her resurrection was for a reason. The purpose in her life was not over, God had more in store for her life.

What can we learn from Dorcas?

We can learn from Dorcas’ life that she cared for people rather than just focusing on her title as a leader in the community. Some people have a title in their church as a deacon or worship leader but dwell on their post rather than carrying out the work. Many are proud and brag about their title, yet they do not carry out the good deeds like Dorcas. Dorcas demonstrated dedication in helping to those in need. She was obsessed in doing good. From time to time a person may carry out a good deed, but for kingdom people it is a duty to carry out good deeds all the time. It doesn’t mean that we should go and work for a charity or we must donate millions away, it could mean encouraging, giving and praying for the needy. For example this could be cooking for the hungry, praying for the broken hearted or giving clothes to those in need. I found out something really interesting that the The Dorcas Society is named after her. This shows the effect that this great woman had on the world and still has. The charity carries out similar work Dorcas did-making clothing for the poor. She died leaving a mark. Before her resurrection, those who were mourning her remembered her for making garments for the needy. What are we going to remembered for? What would you be remembered for? We should all want to be remembered for our service unto God and unto others like Dorcas. Dorcas is a great example of a true charitable woman.

Elizabeth- The woman who bore in her old age

Bible Reference- Luke 1:5-80

Family Background- Elizabeth was a descendent of Aaron. This means she came from a priestly family. Her husband was Zechariah who was a priest. He belonged to the priestly division of Abijah, which was one set of priests who were chosen to minister in the temple. Elizabeth was the mother of John the Baptist. She was a relative of Mary, the mother of Jesus.

Name meaning- Elizabeth means oath of God

Who is Elizabeth?

Elizabeth was a Godly woman who lived in Judea. She along with her husband is described in the Bible as ‘righteous in the sight of God, observing all the Lord’s commands and decrees blamelessly’. To be given such a description like this means that she was a woman who preserved the traditions of her descendants and walked with God. She was a priestly woman who lead a holy life.

Elizabeth was an old woman. Her and husband had been praying for a child but she was unable to conceive. This must have caused heartbreak and disappointment for the couple. I could not imagine the humiliation they may have received especially with Elizabeth as a priest’s wife. Especially in ancient times, when barrenness was considered a disgrace. It is dream for every woman to become a mother, so it must have been hard for Elizabeth.

Why is Elizabeth great?

An angel appeared to Zechariah and told him that their prayers have been answered. The angel told him that they will have a son called John. Zechariah did not believe the angel and was made mute. Just as the angel said, Elizabeth conceived. Mary, who was pregnant with Jesus visited Elizabeth. As soon as Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leapt for joy. Then Elizabeth gave birth to a son and Zechariah’s speech returned. Elizabeth’s son became John the Baptist, the prophet who foretold the saviour and messiah- Jesus Christ.

This is the story. But why is Elizabeth great? Her life was full of faith and piety. Unlike her husband, who had doubt of conceiving in old age, Elizabeth believed. She was never sad or upset because she was unable to conceive. She had faith and continued to pray. She continued to serve God and his commandments even though she may have felt like a disgrace. Even though she probably was gossiped about, she kept her faith. She was thankful for what God had done for. Elizabeth was grateful for the favour that God had given her.

Additionally, when Mary visited Elizabeth she heard her relative’s greeting and her baby leapt for joy. She was filled with the holy spirit and said:

“Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear! But why am I so favoured, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? As soon as the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy. Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfil his promises to her!”

Elizabeth was a privileged and favoured woman as she was the first to declare who Jesus was. She gave a prayer and a blessing. I think the baby leaped in Elizabeth’s womb because he was welcoming Jesus. The baby was excited that the messiah who was to bring salvation, was near. Elizabeth knew the messiah had come and she confessed this with “the mother of my Lord should come to me”. Elizabeth presented herself with humility, knowing that was she blessed and highly favoured to be the first to confess who Jesus was.

Moreover, the birth of John showed that Elizabeth was a great woman. The bible describes that her relatives and neighbours had heard the Lord had shown her great mercy and they shared their joy. Elizabeth obeyed God. She could have listened to her family and called her son Zechariah Jr. However she said his name is John just like God had commanded. She was a special woman who listened to God’s commandments and because of this she was given a special blessing. She was blessed with a child who was not only to be a joy to his parents but to others (her son was great in the eyes of God, her son was to be filled with the holy spirit before his birth, walk in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn lives around and prepare people for Jesus Christ). Not even double double blessings for this one, this was an extraordinary blessing. This woman was truly blessed! Elizabeth gave birth to her son who would become John the Baptist, who had a role in God’s salvation. The fact that she was involved in the fulfilment of Messianic prophecy and promise, shows that Elizabeth was a great woman.

What can we learn from Elizabeth?

We can learn from Elizabeth and her story that God is amazing-he can take you from barrenness to fruitfulness. Even though she was unable to conceive, she continued to have faith and pray. Sometimes when we do not get what we want, we become frustrated and lose hope. Is it ever going to happen? Am I going to get my miracle? As Elizabeth said blessed are those who believe God’s promises and the fulfilment of them. Elizabeth could have given up. But she didn’t. We need to remember and believe in what God has promised us. Look at what he did for Elizabeth! I have learnt that God rewards and blesses those who are obedient and believe in him. It reminds me of a hymn lol. You know the one … Trust and obey, for there is no other way to be happy in Jesus, but to trust and obey. It isn’t a surprise that Elizabeth is a common name. Who wouldn’t want to name their child after a woman who was humble, had great faith and was blameless and righteous before God?

Stay Blessed

Business and Finance

Banks face £1.3 billion CPP Compensation Bill

August 24, 2013August 24, 2013by renaissanceidealLeave a Comment

Millions of people could be receiving compensation for being mis-sold credit card and identification protection. British Banks will share up to £1.3 billion in compensation to over 7 million people, which on average is £185 a person.

Thirteen Banks including Santander, Royal Bank of Scotland and MNBA have agreed to a compensation scheme. This would compensate customers who were mis-sold products by the insurer CPP. The city regulator, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) said that the banks along with CPP (the company behind policies) has agreed to the compensation package which is likely to start from next spring. The FCA stated that customers had been “given misleading and unclear information about the policies”. The FCA has said that customers can expect to receive letters from the end of August explaining how to get compensation. Before the compensation scheme is given a green light, it has to be voted on by customers and allowed by the high court. After it is approved, the FCA said that the customer will need to complete a single form.

Britain’s banks continue to set aside millions for for payment protection insurance (PPI) and interest rate swaps mis-selling. There is still an estimated £15 billion compensation bill faced by the banking industry, which is approximately double the cost of the London 2012 Olympics.

Faith

False WOLVES?

August 24, 2013August 24, 2013by renaissanceidealLeave a Comment

A couple of weeks ago, I was looking through Twitter and saw a discussion between some people slating certain pastors. Many where tweeting that these pastors were preaching ‘Fake Christianity’ and insulting them. Fair enough, there are false wolves in sheep’s clothing (Matthew 7:15) but do not label any pastor a ‘false wolf’ because you simply do not like the message they preach. Yes, there are many who preach wrong messages. However there is no need to insult them. The Bible tells us that we shall know them by their fruits, so if their messages are not of God we should be able to discern that they produce bad fruits.

Many bash Pastors and churches because they dislike the teachings and messages that is given. Some may dislike them because they have a certain message that is key to their ministry for example some churches are known for deliverance, or their praise and worship ministry, or for their charitable causes. Everyone is called for their own purpose and ministry which may be similar to another but is different to many. Many forget that the heroic figures in the Bible had a common purpose but different goals. For instance take a look at Jesus’ disciples they were all called to preach the good news but they ended up in different places geographically. Each church may have its focus but the majority of them teach the truth and preach the most important message-there is salvation through Jesus Christ. You and I have a common purpose to share the good news but the way it would be explored may be different. Some would explore it by spreading the good news through preaching, teaching, music, writing and even tweeting. Do not hate just because it may not be done the traditional way and then label someone or a ministry a false wolf.

Stay Blessed

Politics

Syria-IS THE CALL FOR ENDING OF VIOLENCE ENOUGH?

August 22, 2013August 22, 2013by renaissanceidealLeave a Comment

Thousands of people have been killed in a chemical weapon attack in Damascus. Activists have described as more than 1,400. This attack took place in rebel held parts of Damascus. The Syrian government has denied the allegations of being responsible for the attacks. They said it was “illogical and fabricated”.

There has been great concern in the international community. The UN Security council met yesterday for an emergency meeting after the news broke out. The UK along with other 35 countries including France and Turkey are asking for a tough international response to the chemical weapons attack. The White House has called for the UN to investigate the attack. Likewise, the UK is calling for UN inspectors to be be given immediate access to where the attacks took place. Currently, the UN Weapons team only has permission to visit three sites under an agreement made by Syria and the UN. The weapons team is in Syria investigating previous claims of chemical weapons. For a mandate for an investigation into yesterday’s attack, permission will need to come from the UN Secretary General and be approved by Syria.

Experts believe that that the chemical weapons used in the attack was mustard gas and sarin nerve agent. The rebels and the Syrian government have been accused of using chemical weapons. Moreover, the Syrian government also has been accused of having stocks of chemical weapons. Several videos have been released onto the internet, showing men and women suffering from the effects of the chemical weapon attack in Damascus. Many are seen with white foam bubbling at the mouth. Also, victims have been suffering from respiratory distress. The French foreign minister, Laurent Fabius has said that the use of chemical attacks if proven would allow a “reaction of force”. However, the British Foreign Office has said that “We believe a political solution is the best way to end the bloodshed”. Nevertheless, the Prime Minster and the Foreign Secretary have both suggested that they cannot rule out any options.

So what does this mean for Syria and its people? Many comments have been made from several states calling for the end of violence in Syria. But is this enough? It seems that more may have to be done. Whether the solution to the crisis is going to be political or use of force, it is yet to be seen. There have been stronger responses of late to the Syrian Conflict. Many have suggested the use of force as an possible solution. However, this is unlikely. China and Russia are against the use of force. They have repeatedly backed the Syrian government since the conflict started. Both countries supposedly blocked a stronger Security Council press statement supported by 35 states.

For the violence to end, whether the solution would be done politically, legally or by use of force-everyone in the international community would need to come to to an agreement.

Faith

GREAT WOMEN OF THE BIBLE CHALLENGE-BATHSHEBA & DEBORAH

August 20, 2013August 20, 2013by renaissanceidealLeave a Comment

I hope you all had a great weekend and a blessed start to the week. Great women I looked at was Bathsheba and Deborah. Hope you are blessed by it. Enjoy!

Bathsheba-A woman who turned her sin around

Bible Reference- 2 Samuel 11, 2 Samuel 12, 1 Kings 1:11-31, 1 Kings 2:13-19, 1 Chronicles 3:5

Family Background-She was the daughter of Eliam and was married to Uriah the Hittite

Name Meaning- Bathsheba means the daughter of an oath

Who is Bathsheba?

Bathsheba is introduced to us from 2 Samuel 11:2 onwards. She is described as a very beautiful woman and her family background is given.

David got up from his bed one evening and saw Bathsheba bathing. He saw how beautiful she was and sent someone to find out about her. He found out her family background and that she was married yet he still sent for her. They slept together and she conceived. What I find hard to understand is why was Bathsheba bathing outside? The fact that David saw her bathing must have meant she exposed herself for all to see. If she was modest then she would have realised that people may have been able to see her. Additionally, if she had been a faithful wife, she would have refused David when he had sent for her. If she was a woman of principle she would have refused to take part in adultery.

After Bathsheba tells David of her pregnant condition, David comes up with a plan. To hide his sin, he sends for Bathsheba’s husband, Uriah the Hittite. Uriah was fighting as a solider in the Israelite army. Uriah refused to come back home and have physical contact with his wife whilst his colleagues was fighting. Uriah was a man of integrity and honour. He wished to be with the rest of the soldiers and serve his King. David even made Uriah drunk, but he did not go home. Realising that his plan had failed, David sent a letter to Joab for Uriah to be put in a place where the he was likely to be killed. I find it shocking that Bathsheba could take part in an affair with a man her husband risked his life for. After her husband’s death, Bathsheba mourned for him. However after mourning, Bathsheba she moved to David’s house. She became his wife and bore a son.

God was displeased with Bathsheba and David’s behaviour. God sent the prophet Nathan to make David and Bathsheba realise the sins they had committed. As a result the son they bore died. Nathan told David, God had forgiven him but there would be calamity in his household.

Why is Bathsheba great?

You must be wondering why I think Bathsheba is great. After all she did with David committing adultery, murder, deceit, lust and betraying Uriah. However she turned it all around. From a woman whose sin resulted into murder, became a blessed woman with favour. God blessed David and Bathsheba with a son called Solomon which the Bible says the Lord loved him. David was repentant of his sin and it seems Bathsheba was too, otherwise God would not have blessed her with this child. God could have given Solomon to one of David’s wives, but he chose Bathsheba. Bathsheba continued to have influence over David which is seen when she reminded David of his promise to her. This promise was that their son would be his successor. Bathsheba’s son, Solomon was known for his wisdom which is seen in Proverbs, Ecclesiastes and Songs of Solomon. Solomon became King and was known not for only his wisdom but also his wealth and power. To have a child who was an extraordinary blessing, Bathsheba herself must have been great.

Indeed, Bathsheba was a great woman as she was included in the genealogy of Jesus Christ in Matthew 1. This is evidence that God restored Bathsheba to divine favour.

What can we learn from Bathsheba?

We can learn from Bathsheba, that God can turn it around. He can take away our sin and make it clean. All we need to do, is to be repentant of our sins. I am amazed at how God blessed Bathsheba- look at how she started and look at how she ended! From the woman who lead a King to commit murder, then give birth to a renowned wise King and became an ancestor of Jesus. This is a 360! Bathsheba did not allow one sin to ruin her life. Instead she used her mistake to direct her future steps. God can take our sins and turn it into something great!

Deborah-The Prophetess Judge

Bible Reference-Judges 4, Judges 5

Family Background-She was the wife of Lappidoth

Name Meaning-A bee

Who is Deborah?

Deborah was a prophetess, a judge and a warrior. She is introduced to us in Judges 4:4 as a wife and a prophetess leading Israel. At this time, Israel was under the King of Canaan who was oppressing them. The commander of his army was Sisera. Immediately as you read this passage, you get a sense that Deborah was a woman of substance. She was leading a nation, was a wife, prophetess and a counsellor. She is also described as the ‘mother of Israel’ in Judges 5:7. This shows that Deborah was a maternal figure to all of Israel, that she took everyone in and was a mother to all.

Why is Deborah great?

I believe Deborah was great because of her role as a Judge of Israel. She is the only noted female judge in the scripture where she sat under a palm tree named after her. Deborah’s role as a ruler is extraordinary, as at that time women would have been in the background. However she gave justice and settled disputes under her palm tree. Deborah was a wise and intelligent woman to lead a land where it had peace for forty years.

I also admire the patriotism and fight Deborah had in her. She was brave and had great courage. This can be seen when she sent Barak to lead the 10,000 army and deliver Israel from their oppressors. Barak was hesitant to go, but he wished that Deborah would go with him. This shows that Deborah was respected as a fearless and brave warrior. Sisera had commanded 900 iron chariots. However Deborah declared that God had given Sisera into their hands. This came to pass where Barak and his men won the battle where not one man was left. Deborah knew that when God is on your side of the battle, that the enemy cannot win.

In Judges 5, the song of Deborah can be seen. This demonstrates not only could Deborah prophesy, lead battles and counsel but she could write. Deborah was a songwriter and a poetess. The song gives praise to God for delivering Israel through their leaders. Deborah was a woman of many talents.

What can we learn from Deborah?

Deborah was an incredible leader. Deborah had a remarkable personality and various gifts which delivered Israel from its enemy. She was gifted with wisdom and courage. I also admire how her reputation is based on her own merit, rather than coming from someone else. Most great women in the Bible, were married to great men or related to one. However Deborah did it on her own. Girl power! From this I learnt that you do not always have to rely on someone’s name to be great, you can carve out a name for yourself. She trusted in God’s words that he gave her. I also learnt that in a powerful position you must be grateful, thankful and humble. This is seen in the Song of Deborah when she magnifies God for enabling her and Barak to conquer Israel’s enemy.

Stay Blessed

Literature

SISTERS AND BROTHERS WHERE ARE YOU?

August 18, 2013August 18, 2013by renaissanceideal3 Comments

Rae Dosoo asserts the moral right to be identified as the author of this work. All rights reserved. No part of this can be reproduced or stored in a retrieval system in any form or by any means, without the prior permission of Rae Dosoo.

Sisters and Brothers where are you?

I am crying, I am hurt, I am distraught

My people’s tears soak my land

Even though we have sun

It hasn’t been enough to put a smile on my people’s faces,

Or warm our hearts

There has been rainfall for over two years

And…

You! My sister ask how the weather is

The weather is bleak here

And it does not look like it is getting any better

We do not know when the sun will smile on us again

My soil continues to be wet with mothers’ tears

Many have lost their sons and husbands

I ask you my Sisters and Brothers, Where are you?

My sisters and brothers have deserted me

Why are you punishing me?

Is there not more you can do, my sisters and brothers?

My cities are painted red

The sky has been brushed black

All I can see is Red and Black, Red and Black

Ashes and Dust

My beautiful home,

My… beautiful… home

Is no more

My sisters and brothers have deserted me

Why are you punishing me?

Please, my sisters and brothers come together, where are you?

I am so sorry, I have been rude

I am so upset, I am so distraught, I cannot cope, and I am far too distraught

Shall I introduce myself?

Here I am!

Is there even any time?

Before we ruin our selves

Before my beautiful home

My beautiful home

My… beautiful… home

Is ruined

They have once called me Assyria

They called me Levant

I’m one of many who has been in the hand of many carers and guardians

I have been adopted many times

From the Canaanites, to the Ottomans, to the French

I have never really had full ‘independence’

Like my acquaintances in the western lands

You know when a child moves out of his father’s house

The child goes out into the world and does things for himself

I am waiting… to… experience… this

You see, we are being controlled

You see, I have an overbearing and overreaching oppressor

Who is overstepping his boundaries?

I want freedom, liberty and equality

I want justice, representation and true emancipation

I want freedom! I want freedom! I want freedom!

Instead there’s confinement, imprisonment and suppression

I have so many siblings, I am one of five

Let me tell you about them

They all surround me

The other is an estranged sister

It does get heated between us

We have never ever, never ever, got along

They all banned me from our brotherhood

It’s not my fault that the head honcho misbehaves

Many of these leagues and clubs don’t know me

They acknowledge the mother’s tears

But do they really understand what is happening?

It’s not one team against the other

‘It’s one against one’ the news reporters say

Its asymmetrical, my brothers and sisters

One against the other, Two against the other, Three against the other,

Two against the Two, Three against that one and OHHHH!

It just does my head in

Why, oh, why my beautiful people, Can’t we just be a family?

My house is full of people from different faiths and different people

My brother believes in Allah, My half-brother believes in him too.

But their beliefs are different

My mother believes in Isa but shhh it’s a secret

I heard that my Auntie married a man who is Jewish!

My distant cousin is a Druze

I am home to people from diverse backgrounds

My grandma is Kurdish, My grandpa is Arabic

The other side of the family there are Armenians, Assyrians and Turkmen

I wish there wasn’t a divide in between my family

There is discontent between the ruling family and the other relatives

Why can’t we respect our differences brethren?

My sisters and brothers where are you?

You have all called for an end to the violence

Yet my mothers still cry, crying out for their fruits of their womb to come back to them

Do not sanction us, do not punish us my brothers and sisters

Let us all my sisters and brothers, Come together and let us find us solution.

Faith

Word of the week- HOPE (11/8/13-25/8/13)

August 16, 2013August 16, 2013by renaissanceidealLeave a Comment

This week I chose hope as my word. I have decided to do my 2 in 1 again, focusing on hope for two weeks. The word hope means the feeling that what is wanted can be had or that events will turn out for the best. It also means a person or thing in which expectations are centred. The word hope along with faith and love are important concepts in Christianity. Hope biblically means a strong and confident expectation. It is the anticipation that there is something favourable coming under God. Hope is based on God’s promises and having confidence in them. This differs to the earthly hope where hope is a feeling that what is wanted. Earthy hope is a feeling where there there can be doubt. Biblical hope is an assurance that there is an favourable outcome-there is no doubt attached. The earthly hope definition can cause vagueness. However when hope is based on something and has a foundation, then it can be considered genuine. The bible bases its hope in God. The word of God gives us hope and gives us confidence for our hopes to be fulfilled.

Hope is a fundamental part of our lives. Without hope in our lives, life loses its meaning. In Job 7:6, it describes how your days can be lifeless without hope. The Bible states those who hope and trust in the Lord, they shall be helped. This is seen in Psalms 28:7. Additionally, those who have hope in the Lord will not put to shame or be disappointed (Isaiah 43:29). Jeremiah 29:11 is a verse that I love and live on. It reminds us that our hopes and plans are under all God’s control. He promises us not only a hope in the future but protection and help. God’s got it! In Matthew 12:21, we can find hope in Jesus. It in his name that we can all find hope. We can find this hope through the salvation that Christ gave us when he died for us. Through this hope, our lives are forever changed because the gift of salvation. We can have assurance that Christ is in our lives because of this. Christians can have hope in the return of Christ, resurrection of Jesus, the presence of the holy spirit, eternal life, the salvation of God, eternal glory and the promises of God.

Romans 5:2-5 tells us that there is glory in sufferings. This is because it states that our suffering produces perseverance, perseverance builds character and this gives us hope. This journey gives us assurance in the things of God. The things we may be expecting or hoping for may not happen at the time we want it. However, God’s time is the best. My hope is in God and his promises. Sometimes we may go through difficult things. It may be that we are facing rejections and having bad days but we have to remind ourselves that there is hope in Jesus. I am constantly reminding myself of this. I also have wonderful friends and family who tell me this too. Sisters and Brothers, Encourage yourselves!

Here are some bible verses on hope:

Romans 12:12 (NIV)- Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.

1 Peter 1:3 (NIV)- Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.

Psalms 33:22 (NIV)-May your unfailing love be with us, Lord,
even as we put our hope in you.

Romans 4:18 (NIV)-Against all hope, Abraham in hope believed and so became the father of many nations, just as it had been said to him, So shall your offspring be.

Psalms 146:5 (NIV)-Blessed are those whose help is the God of Jacob,whose hope is in the Lord their God.

Hebrews 11:1 (NIV)-Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.

Psalms 39:7 (NIV)-But now, Lord, what do I look for? My hope is in you.

1 Peter 1:21 (NIV)-Through him you believe in God, who raised him from the dead and glorified him, and so your faith and hope are in God.

Titus 2:13 (NIV)-while we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Saviour, Jesus Christ

Proverbs 23:18 (NIV)- There is surely a future hope for you, and your hope will not be cut off.

Job 11:18 (NIV)- You will be secure, because there is hope;you will look about you and take your rest in safety.

1 Thessalonians 1:3 (NIV)-We remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labour prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.

Romans 15:13 (NIV)-May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Psalms 119:81 (NIV)-My soul faints with longing for your salvation,
but I have put my hope in your word

Romans 8:24-25 (NIV)-For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what they already have? But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.

Psalms 71:14 (NIV)- As for me, I will always have hope; I will praise you more and more.

Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)-For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

Psalm 43:5 (NIV)-Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him,
my Saviour and my God.

Job 14:7-9 (NIV)-At least there is hope for a tree: If it is cut down, it will sprout again, and its new shoots will not fail. Its roots may grow old in the ground and its stump die in the soil, yet at the scent of water it will bud and put forth shoots like a plant.

Romans 5:3-5 (NIV)-Not only so, but wealso glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.

Psalms 119:49 (NIV)-Remember your word to your servant, for you have given me hope.

2 Thessalonians 2:16-17 (NIV)-May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and by his grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word.

Hebrews 6:18-19 (NIV)-God did this so that, by two unchangeable things in which it is impossible for God to lie, we who have fled to take hold of the hope set before us may be greatly encouraged. We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain.

Acts 24:15 (NIV)-and I have the same hope in God as these men themselves have, that there will be a resurrection of both the righteous and the wicked

Titus 3:7 (NIV)-so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life.

Stay Blessed

Fashion

FLOWER POWER

August 11, 2013by renaissanceideal2 Comments

Florals was one of the key trends for Spring Summer 2013. Florals as a trend has been running for many years. It has been a firm favourite. If you Remember, Miranda Priestley’s statement in Devil Wears Prada-‘Florals? For Spring? Groundbreaking’. It is a reminder that Fashion has a never ending love affair with florals. It is not stopping anytime soon. For the 2013 look, florals come 3D with oversized motifs and appliqués. This was seen at the Erdem show-the Master of florals.

Florals are all about having fun. It looks pretty and flirty in spring. It looks vibrant and exciting in the summer. I went for the girly floral look for my Flower Power OOTD.

Here are some Pictures: