Author: renaissanceideal

Fashion

Best Emmy Looks

by renaissanceidealLeave a Comment on Best Emmy Looks
Best Emmy Looks

 

The Emmy Awards celebrates the best TV shows on the American screen.

The 65th annual Emmy awards this year saw a number of stars in glamorous gowns. From white to sparkles to blues, there was so much stunning dresses on the red carpet.

Here are my favourite looks:

Claire Danes

(Picture source-eonline)

Emmy 2013 Claire

Claire Danes, the Homeland actress, looked stunning in a sheer Armani Prive dress.

Mindy Kaling

(Picture source- New York Daily News)

Emmy 2013 Mindy

Love the deep plum colour of the dress. Mindy Kaling was wearing a Georges Chakra dress.

Heidi Klum

(Picture source- New York Daily News)

Emmy 2013 Heidi

Sparkly Spectacular. Heidi Klum dazzles in Versace.

 

Sofia Vergara

(Picture source-eonline)

Emmy 2013 Sofia Veg

Sofia Vergara wearing Vera Wang and Lorraine Schwartz. I love how Sofia sticks to dresses that suit her hourglass figure. No disappointment here!

Kaley Cuoco

(Picture source-New York Daily News)

Emmy 2013 Kaley

Kaley’s dark vampy romantic look. Dress by Vera Wang.

Taylor Schilling

(Picture source-eonline)

Emmy 2013 Taylor

I love the simplicity of this look. Understated yet the look oozes cool sophistication. Taylor is wearing a Thakoon dress, Neil Lane cuff, Amanda Pearl Clutch and Stuart Weitzman sandals.

Kerry Washington

(Picture source- New York Daily News)

Emmy 2013 Kerry 2

Emmy 2013 Kerry

My favourite look of the night. This Marchesa dress is so beautiful!

Padma Lakshimi

(Picture source- New York Daily News)

Emmy 2013 Padma

Padma Lakshimi wears a KaufmanFranco dress and Robert Lee Morris jewellery.

Rocsi Diaz

Emmy 2013 Rocsi

Rocsi’s electric blue fishtail gown is jaw breaking beautiful. Love the mermaid dress. The dress is Michael Costello and she is wearing Loren Ridinger jewels.

Stay Blessed

x

Faith

Great Women Of The Bible Challenge- Esther & Eunice

by renaissanceideal2 Comments on Great Women Of The Bible Challenge- Esther & Eunice

Esther- The woman who saved her people from genocide

Bible Reference- Book of Esther

Family Background- Her father was called Abihail, who was the Uncle of Mordecai. When her parents died, Mordecai her cousin, took care of her and took her as his daughter

Name meaning- Esther means star in Persian. The biblical meaning of Esther is hidden or secretive. Her original Hebrew name Hadassah means myrtle.

Who is Esther?

We are introduced to Esther in Esther 2:7 as Hadassah, where Mordecai took her as daughter as her parents died. She was also known as Esther. The Bible describes her as a young woman who had a lovely figure and was beautiful.

The story is that King Xerxes had a feast for 180 days where he displayed his wealth of his kingdom. After this he had a banquet for seven days. He summons Queen Vashti in order for her to show her beauty off to the people and the nobles. However she refuses. King Xerxes banishes her and she is punished to not enter the presence of the King. A new Queen is sought and Esther is chosen. Esther did not reveal her nationality or family background as Mordecai forbidden her not to do so. Mordecai uncovers a conspiracy, during his time sitting at the King’s gate. Two of the King’s officers conspired to assassinate King Xerxes. Mordecai tells Queen Esther who then tells the King, giving credit to Mordecai.

After these events King Xerxes honours Haman, giving him a position higher than any noble. All royal officials had to bow down to him. However Mordecai refused. Haman was angry. When he found out that Mordecai was a Jew, he looked for a way to destroy all the Jews in King Xerxes’ kingdom.

Mordecai calls on Esther to talk to the King. However the King does not know of Esther’s background. Esther is reluctant to go to the King. Remember, to approach her husband without permission she risked death.  She would be breaking the law and be punished by death. Mordecai reminds her of background and purpose:

“Do not think that because you are in the king’s house you alone of all the Jews will escape. For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?”

Esther then replied to Mordecai, to tell everyone in Susa to fast and pray for three days. She also said will do the same and after this she would go to the King.

Esther then entered the King’s court. The King was pleased with her so she requested to have a banquet with the King and Haman (she said she would give her petition at the banquet). So Haman got cocky and did ‘guy guy’ because he had been asked to attend dinner with the beautiful Queen Esther. He saw Mordecai who again did not bow to me. Haman’s wife suggested to him and his friends that he should set a 75 ft (23 m) pole for Mordecai to be hanged on.

The King the following night couldn’t sleep. He read the records of his reign and he found that Mordecai had exposed the officers who conspired to assassinate the King. The King asked Haman what should this man receive for his good work. Haman without realising it is Mordecai, told the King he should have a royal robe, sit on the house and be paraded through the city. When Haman realised he was sad and angry.

At the banquet Queen Esther told her husband King Xerxes of Haman’s evil plans to destroy the Jews (Queen Esther’s people) and kill Mordecai.  The King was angry and the pole that Haman planned for Mordecai, was instead set up for him.

The King gave Queen Esther Haman’s estate and she appointed Mordecai over it. The King gave Mordecai his signet ring which he reclaimed from Haman. The King also reversed Haman’s plans to destroy the Jews which was written into an edict. The decree granted all Jews across his kingdom the right to assemble and protect themselves.

Why is Esther great?

From Esther’s story you can tell what an extraordinary woman she was. She risked her life and interceded on behalf of her people to the King where she could have been punished to death. She knew the risks ‘And if I perish, I perish’ (Esther 4:16) yet she was willing to sacrifice her life in order for her people to be saved. Esther’s bravery, courage and faith in God highlights the strong belief she had in God. She was committed in fasting and praying, knowing that fasting gives favour and protection from God. She allowed God to use her in the position she was in to win deliverance for her people.

Esther, was a rare individual. She was chosen as a candidate for the King who must not only have been charmed by her beauty but her personality.Whilst reading this, I noticed the King was always eager to listen to his wife, Queen Esther. He greeted her with love and was willing to understand everything she put across. This demonstrates that Esther was a great wife too.

What can we learn from Esther?

We can learn from Esther’s obedience. Mordecai told her not to reveal her background and asked her to intercede on behalf of the Jews. She did whatever he asked. Imagine, as a young woman without no father and mother. Our parents from birth teach us how to respect others. However, Mordecai as her adoptive father took on that role. I learnt from this, the importance of obedience. Sometimes young people, even old can disagree with their parents, but look where Esther’s obedience brought her.

Furthermore, we can learn from Esther’s character from her determination to seek God’s guidance in her time of difficulty. We can be going through difficult times and forget the tools of prayer and fasting. In our trials and tribulations, we may lose hope and faith thinking what is the point. However Esther sought after God and we should learn from this.

Even though Esther kept her background a secret. She never forget where she came from. She was not ashamed in the hour of trouble to reveal who she was. We can learn from this that we should always love who we are, which includes our heritage and background.

From Esther’s story we learn that God can take you from nothing to something. She was  a young woman called Hadassah from Susa but then became Queen Esther of Persia. He had a plan for Esther, just like he has a plan for you and I. God used Esther as an instrument for his glorious purpose, to deliver the Jews and give them their rights. The same way God will use you and I. God put Esther as a Queen to do this. God can put us in a similar position for a purpose. Esther’s life is a demonstration of how God works. God puts each one of us into a position for his plan and purpose. We may never know what he is doing and think to ourselves- Why this? Why here? Why now? Why am I doing this? Then when everything comes together, then we look back and say to ourselves God I understand why you did it like that. She was put as a candidate as ‘for such a time as this’, she was given to the King as ‘for such a time as this’, she was the Queen as a ‘time for this’. Whatever position you are in, believe it is ‘for such a time as this’.

Eunice- The woman whose her son became a famous evangelist

Bible Reference- Acts 16:1-3, 2 Timothy 1:5, 2 Timothy 3:14-15

Family Background-Eunice was the daughter of Lois. The Bible does not mention who Eunice’s father is. Eunice married a Greek.

Name Meaning- Eunice means good victory

Who is Eunice?

Eunice was Timothy’s mother.

Why is Eunice great?

Esther is great because of the way she brought up her son. The Bible tells us that Timothy’s faith first came through his grandmother Lois and then Eunice. This means Eunice trained her son with scriptures. The bible reminds us to teach children in the way they should go. Paul speaks highly of Timothy, as his ‘dear son’. Eunice must have been proud that her son’s who was an evangelist, had an companion such as Paul. Looking at Timothy, Eunice did a great job.

What can we learn from Eunice?

We can learn from Eunice that we should bring up our children in the right way. She made sure  that from birth, Timothy was surrounded by the ways of God. We can take this from Eunice, that if we have positive Christian training in our homes our children would not depart from it.

Fashion

Kaba Girl

by renaissanceideal3 Comments on Kaba Girl
Kaba Girl

Kaba Girl 7

If you are a Ghanaian, you will know all about the ‘Kaba and Slit’. The Kaba and Slit is a top and skirt. The skirt is usually long and there is a matching top. The Kaba and Slit is Ghanaian traditional wear worn by women. You will find women wearing it at funerals to traditional marriages etc. It is also worn by other African women. The Kaba and Slit has been modernised recently where young girls incorporate western styles. I love it when traditional meets modern.

My outfit here is a Kaba and a skirt. I do have the matching slit which I wore for another occasion. However I wore the Kaba with a black skirt to keep it nice and sweet.

Kaba Girl 1

Kaba Girl 9

Outfit details:

Kaba- made by my seamstress, designer-Nena Boateng

Black Skirt- M & S

Glass Sandals- M & S

Clutch- shop from Paris

Bangle- M & S

Stay Blessed

x

Fashion

Paris Finds

by renaissanceidealLeave a Comment on Paris Finds
Paris Finds

 

I went to Paris again. This time I did a little shopping. We went to Rue du Temple, there are so many shops. I think its a shopping district. From handbags, to jewellery to shoes-we were spoilt for choice. I found some cute pieces of jewellery. You know how I love chunky jewellery and statement pieces. So I couldn’t help myself and get something!

Paris finds 1

Paris finds 2

Business and Finance

Top Stories

by renaissanceidealLeave a Comment on Top Stories

Twitter heads for Stock Market by filing for IPO

Social media giant Twitter confirmed last week their intention to float on the market. This was revealed on their website. Twitter is said to be worth at least £6.32 billion according to GSV Capital. Profits last year was valued at $350 million and is expected to increase this year. The filing was confidential which is allowed by The Securities and Exchanges Commission under the JOBS Act. The act allows firms which have less than $1 billion in annual revenue to register a public share sale without publishing details of the application. The JOBS (Jumpstart Our Business Startups) Act passed in 2012 requires a company under US law to go public if it has more than 2000 investors.

Royal Mail Privatisation

On Thursday, the government formally began the floating process for Royal Mail on the London Stock Exchange. It is argued to be the most ambitious privatisation since the privatising of the railways in the 90s. The Royal Mail privatisation is said to be worth £3 billion and the initial public offering is to take place in the coming weeks. It faces staunch opposition from the Communications Workers Union. Even though the government has promised 150,000 postmen and women a 10% stake in the company worth £2000 each, the union is still opposed to the privatisation. The CWU is committed in disrupting the sale process and has also rejected a 8.6% pay rise over three years.

Michael Dell buys back company he founded for $25bn

The struggling business, Dell has been brought by its founder Michael Dell. The shareholders backed his offer of $13.88 a share.  Activist investor Carl Icahn fought a deal to buy Dell but was defeated by Michael Dell. This comes as traditional PC companies are struggling to make money, with figures showing that PC sales will be overtaken by tablets for the first time-84.1 million tablets will be shipped in the fourth quarter of 2013 compared to 83.1million PCs. IDC, an research group has said that tablets will outsell all PCs by Christmas and by 2015 they will overtake PCs as consumers prefer tablets.

Vodafone and the Kabel Deutschland deal

Vodafone has taken control of Germany’s largest cable company, Kabel Deutschland. The 7.7 billion Euros takeover of Kabel, is part of Vodafone’s new strategy to be selling mobile phone subscriptions as well as television, broadband and home telephone services. The telecoms giant Vodafone secured  75% support from the shareholders. The Kabel shareholders accepted Vodafone’s £73.23 share offer, this also includes an 2.50 Euros dividend to Kabel Deutschland’s investors. The deal gives Vodafone access to 7 million cable subscribers in Germany. Kabel’s television service includes 100 digital channels which is sold via contracts with customers or house corporations and landlords. Kabel hoped to get a higher price from Vodafone, which raised concerns that the deal would fall last minute. The US hedge fund Elliot Capital put up its stake in Kabel to 10.9% in the run up to the deal.

Carney and Inflation

The governor of Bank of England, Mark Carney has told the Treasury Select Committee (TSC) that inflation is a priority for the Bank of England. Carney warned that unemployment may fall more slowly than markets expect. This is because the recession caused a large number in the people out of work for a long period. Under Carney’s forward guidance policy, the Bank of England will only raise interest rates when unemployment falls to 7%. Additionally, the Bank will only consider raising rates if it forecasts inflation above 2.5% in 18 to 24 months time.

Housing Bubble?

There are fears that there will soon be a debt fuelled housing bubble after Rightmove tripled its growth forecast for prices of home this year. The UK property website, Rightmove at the start of year forecasted that the average national asking prices would rise by 2pc over 2013. They are now predicting it will rise to 6pc. These figures raise concern and have put pressure on the Government. Vince Cable, the Business Secretary, has warned the increase in the value of property could be detrimental to the economic recovery. This brings into question the Government’s plan to extend its Help to Buy initiative. The Deputy Prime Minister, Nick Clegg, has suggested there is no need to panic as the Government and the Bank of England will prevent a housing bubble before it becomes a risk. The Government argues that the property market, is a long way off becoming a bubble and plans to continue with the policy of providing support to first time buyers.

Fashion

Opposite Colours Attract

by renaissanceideal4 Comments on Opposite Colours Attract
Opposite Colours Attract

 

Opposite colours attract. Some may think that complementary colours in an outfit is a bit too much. A bit too much is never enough! However you don’t want to be looking like a walking rainbow. When doing colour blocking, try to have two main parts of your outfit as complementary colours and keep the rest neutral. With my OOTD , my complementary colours was yellow and blue (not the traditional complementary colours of yellow and purple but yellow and blue will still work), then the neutral colours was black and white. This still gives you the vibrant look but doesn’t make you look clown crazy.

Here are some pictures:

Opposite Colours attract 1

Opposite Colours attract 6

Opposite Colours attract 7

Opposite Colours attract 8

Opposite Colours attract 9

Opposite Colours attract 10

Opposite Colours attract 11

Opposite Colours attract 12

Opposite Colours attract 14

Stay Blessed

x

Fashion

THE 7 DENIM FIT-JEANS for 7 Body Types

by renaissanceideal10 Comments on THE 7 DENIM FIT-JEANS for 7 Body Types
THE 7 DENIM FIT-JEANS for 7 Body Types

 

I don’t know about you, but I find it so hard to get jeans that fit me properly. They are either huge at the waist, too tight at the hips or make my legs look humungous- its Girls with Big Bum Problems.  I remember when jeggings first came out, I stayed far away from it. The material of jeggings was very clingy. But now you can get all types- which is great for my figure. Now, you can get jeggings which are very much like jeans. Check out M & S, they have great jeggings!

Now, if you are like me and love wearing all types of jeans (boyfriend, mom, skinny, flares and straight, white, grey, black, blue or green etc) you will need to know how to put it together. I am a pear shape-smaller top, bigger bottom half. If I am wearing white skinny jeans, I would wear a colourful top to balance it out. It won’t be right to wear a darker colour at the top, to draw attention to my bottom half. It is great to know what suits your figure.

What is the right denim fit for you?

1) Pear Shape

What is the right denim fit for you?Pear asos straight jeans

STRAIGHT/ FLARED JEANS

Straight jeans is perfect for pear shapes. It compliments curves and elongates your legs.

Flared Jeans are also great for pear shapes.

Colours- Opt for darker tones

Jeans- Check it out here (ASOS Marney Straight Leg Jeans in Dark Wash)

 

2) Tall

What is the right denim fit for you?

Tall Skinny

SKINNY/BOOTCUT/FLARES

Skinny jeans work well for tall women.

It depends on whether you want to add even more height to your appearance. Bootcut and Flares will make your legs longer- but I don’t see anything wrong with that! It will give you that supermodel look. Hey, there Naomi Campbell *waves*.

Also look for brands that offer longer lengths. You may not want to wear something that is too short for you. I understand the headache of finding the right length. I am short, so sometimes jeans may come out longer. Don’t worry if the jeans come out short, you can work it. You can work the cropped look!

Colours- Look for lighter shades of denim

Jeans- Check it out here (Topshop Tall Moto Leigh Skinny Jeans)

 

3) Hourglass

What is the right denim fit for you?

Hourglass wide trousers asos

WIDE LEGGED TROSUERS/BOOTCUT

Wide leg trousers is great for showing off that hourglass figure. Look for a midrise jean (sits midway on the stomach). It will create a lovely silhouette and fit nicely on your hips.

I know what you are thinking-ewww, bootcut *cringe*. However it is not bad as many think, when dressed right you will be looking fineeee! Bootcut is a good fit for the hourglass shape.

Jeans- Check it out here (Denham Pam Wide Leg Jeans)

 

4) Athletic

What is the right denim fit for you?

Athletic Levi boyf jeans

ANYTHING

Yes, that’s right- anything! Whether its boyfriend or slim fitted- athletic shapes can work it. Athletic body shapes are lucky, they can carry anything off. Skinny and Bootcut look particularly good on Athletic figures. Bootcut would give you a curvier silhouette.

Jeans- Check it out here (Levi’s Boyfriend Skinny Selvedge Jeans)

 

5) Inverted Triangle

What is the right denim fit for you?

  Mango inverted triangle

FLARES

Flares is the best for an inverted triangle body shape. Flares would broaden your shoulders and balance it out.

Colours- Anything

Jeans- Check it out here (Mango Dark Wash Flared Jeans)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

6) Petite

What is the right denim fit for you?Petite cropped zara shoes

CROPPED JEANS

Petite girls stick to cute cropped jeans. This should be slim or skinny cut. A high waistline will lengthen your legs.

 

 

 

Jeans- Check it out here (Zara Cropped Jeans)

 

7) Apple

What is the right denim fit for you?

BOOTCUT

Apple Bootcut M & S

Bootcut will give you a slimming appearance. Try to find jeans that have pockets on the bum, to give your bum shape. Add heels and you’re ready to go!

Colours- Opt for dark denim

Jeans- Check it out here (M&S Collection Slim Fit Denim Bootleg Jeans)

 

Stay Blessed

x

Fashion

Pink Sunday!

by renaissanceideal2 Comments on Pink Sunday!
Pink Sunday!

Vixen 3

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!

Vixen 2

Vixen 1

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.

vixen black

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

vixen nude

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.

Valentino Rockstud various

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

KG Kurt Geiger Cally

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

Kurt Geiger Cally Black

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

Stay Blessed

x

Faith

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

by renaissanceideal1 Comment on Word Of The Week- Friendship (25/08/13-01/09/13)
Word Of The Week- Friendship (25/08/13-01/09/13)

John 15 12 15

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

x

Faith

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

by renaissanceidealLeave a Comment on Great Women Of The Bible Challenge- Dorcas (Tabitha) & Elizabeth

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

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