Friday, March 15

Today is our last day specifically on faith although since this characteristic is the foundation for all the other characteristics we will examine so it will probably come up now and then.  It is also our last day specifically on young, single women.

First let's think about what a woman who is young and single should be doing as a servant of God.  She is free from the responsibilities of a husband and family so she serves in a different way than a married woman.  She is usually also free from health issues that keep some from serving as freely as they might wish.  When we look at Mary in her situation we can learn some principles for the young woman.  She is to be willing to serve in ways that may be outside her comfort zone, living in full submission to God and His plans.  In today's world that would mean living a life different from most of those around her.  She should be holy in mind and body.  As Mary used her freedom to serve others (hurrying to Elizabeth during her confinement) so should young women use their freedom for the same purpose.  What would this look like in today's society?  What are some examples you can think of?

Today's assignment has two parts. Give an example of how a young, single woman can serve in our society.  Secondly,  please share two of your favorite passages on faith.  They can be talking specifically about faith, or they can be examples of faith.

I have an example of a young, single woman living in my house right now.  Rebecca truly exemplifies a life of service.  Her mom is right now in assisted living temporarily.  There is not a day that she does not drive or walk down to spend time with her.  If her mom needs to get out for a while, Rebecca takes her for a drive.  Running errands, helping her shower, doing her laundry, helping her dress - Rebecca spends her life in service.  I am amazed at her unselfishness.

Now for a couple of my favorite faith Scriptures.  The first one is an obvious one - the whole chapter of Hebrews 11.  What an amazing group of people we find there!  These people lived lives of service and pain because of their faith.  Of course there were times of joy, but there was also an awful lot of pain. Faith will lead me outside my comfort zone, even to the point of causing pain, but it's all worth it. Chapter 12:1-2 sums it up, encouraging me to remember these witnesses as I run my race.  I picture them as if they are in the seats of a stadium and I am running in front of them.  They gasp when I fall down and cheer when I get back up.

I also like Hebrews 13:5-6:

Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have.  For He Himself has said, "I will never leave you nor forsake you."  So we may boldly say: "The Lord is my helper; I will not fear. What can man do to me?"

I like the "never leave you nor forsake you" part.  It is very comforting when things are hard, and joyful when things are good.  When I remember this, living without covetousness and being content becomes much easier.

There are so many great passages.  I look forward to hearing your favorites!