We often look down on people who look down on people. We often cry out that Jesus died for the the sinners, prostitutes, and tax collectors! Very rarely do we have compassion on the self righteous, the Pharisees, and the legalists. Remember- we were once lost like them. They need the gospel just like everyone else (Romans 2). 

“Only he is an orthodox teacher who not only presents all articles of faith in accordance with Scripture, but also rightly distinguishes from each other the Law and Gospel.” -Walther 

The law is good, glorious, true, perfect, knowable, holy (Isaiah 42:21, Psalm 19:7-9). We are to follow it because the law is a reflection of God. There is nothing wrong with the law. On the contrary, the law shows what is wrong with us because we violated the holiness of God. 

Why the law? Galatians 3:19 asks. Paul answers this a few verses later in Galatians 3:23-25. 

 ”To develop a great expectation and necessity for the Redeemer.To develop a great expectation and necessity for the Redeemer by revealing human sinfulness to the degree that it would create the desperation in men that drives them to the Savior.” - John MacArthur 

The law does not and cannot generate what it commands. Jesus intensifies the Old Testament law. He sharpens the spear of the law so that it plunges deeper into our hearts and drives us to repentance and faith in Him.

Be pefect as your heavenly Father is perfect- Matthew 5:48

We are condemned without excuse, recourse, or any way out (law). The law is to love God and love your neighbor (Luke 10:27). We cannot worship God perfectly and be perfect. But, there is good news- the Gospel. The law condemns us and drives us to Jesus, who becomes our righteousness. We are saved through faith in Christ (Ephesians 2:8). Our realization of our inability to fulfill the law opens our eyes to our need for Jesus. 

“If you cheat on law, you cheat on gospel.” - Justin Holcomb

We must have a high law and a high gospel.

(Source: )

“If you are single, maximize your singleness to advance the gospel. If you are married, love your spouse in a way that portrays the gospel.” - David Platt

According to my facebook news feed, I’ve noticed about 3 groups of people on Valentine’s Day.

1) The bitter people who think they’re so  clever and original on Valentine’s Day by clearly advertising their hate for this holiday. Really old lines that everyone is using “My girlfriend does this cute thing where she doesn’t exist… I’m spending the day with my ex..box 360.” 

2) The people who love Valentines day and are like,” My boyfriend is the best!! I HEART him ily <3 <3 <3 He’s a keeper!” Then they upload their status about every 5 seconds of their Tiffany’s jewleery and Godiva chocolate. 

3) The people who bake, eat, and go on a crazy sugar overload while watching Disney movies.

I happen to fall into the third category.  This day gives me an “excuse” to bake and eat all my meals in cute, pink, heart shaped plates. However, I would like to see a fourth group of people more often. Instead of whining about your relationship status (or lack thereof), steward your time wisely to the glory of God. Find a couple to bless and babysit their children for free. Bake dessert and bless people with it. Fellowship with your family in Christ and learn more about marriages of a godly couple. 

Today was the best Valentine’s Day. A family from church invited me to spend time with them tonight at their house. I watched the husband come home and kiss his wife while his children screamed, “Daddy!” After, I ate dessert and talked to their children about their Sunday school lesson and Valentine’s Day. They were so well behaved and disciplined cleaning and washing their dishes without being told. I watched the father do devotions with his children and read out of “The Jesus-Storybook Bible” with them. He prayed over them while I sat and played some games with the mother. We had tea and talked about theology. After the kids went to sleep, and the he joined us. We watched ridiculous youtube videos, laughed, and then ate more dessert.The whole time I was thought,”Wow, this is what it’s supposed to be like. This is the Gospel on display.” It’s such an amazing blessing to witness this. I would like to thank all you married couples for displaying godly covenant marriages to pattern after. Thank you for setting an example of how Christ loves the Church and setting the bar high. Thank you for encouraging us to keep waiting and glorifying God.  

“Your husband, whoever he is, will have an unbelievable amount of influence over your sons and daughters in regards to spiritual things. If you want your children to love Jesus deeply, hold out for a man that is Godly.” -Matt Chandler

When I get married, I’d like to spend some time with a single on Valentine’s Day. Buy a widow roses and chocolates. “We love because he first loved us.” (1 John 4:19)

Let’s remember Jesus.  Let’s reflect on the true meaning of Valentine’s Day. Let’s remember that St. Valentine was martyred for Jesus. Let this motivate us to live a life of sacrifical love. Let’s maximize the gospel single or married until the day we see Him face to face. Let’s remember that the Lord’s steadfast love for us (Psalm 136). As receipients of such love, let’s be givers of such love. 

Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God.- 1 John 4:7

God has been really shaping and molding me since I read Desiring God’s article “Come be a Nobody for Christ ” last summer. Later, I wrote my post on What God has Been Teaching Me . 

I guess the fire in my heart sparked up again when I was discussing about cutting back on lattes in my New Years Resolutions post. Then, Ben wrote back and challenged me to cut back on everything. He mentioned an example where his friend gave every paycheck to missions and had about 4 dollars in his account after he graduated college. I kind of dismissed that idea as “too radical.” But after I couldn’t go to sleep that night. A single person with an income at the poverty line in the US is 1) still richer than ~85% of the world and 2) probably lazy. Self-sacrifice for the gospel is important. Jesus became poor for our sake (2 Cor 8) Jesus was broke and homeless for us. 

I am incredibly blessed that God has provided me an amazing job. I was looking at my disposable income and credit card bill the other day when I realized almost all of it was on food or social events. The ridiculous amount of money I spend on food could go to missions. How can I spend like $50+ week on going out to eat when there are thousands of unreached souls who don’t know Jesus? We must have a heart for the lost and for the gospel.( 1 Timothy 2:1-8, Romans 9:1-3) God has been generous with us, so we should be generous to others. (Deut 8:18, Matthew 25:21, 1 Tim 6:17)

Where I spend my money shows my heart. I heard a sermon that said, “God increases our wealth not to raise our standard of living but to increase our standard of giving.” 

Lately, God has given me a heart for missions. I know that he isn’t calling me to do that right now. Orange County needs to know the gospel and there is too much to be done here. Every place is a mission field because everyone needs the gospel of Jesus Christ.  I thought I needed to go give up everything and be a missionary. But wait…. where I live is a complete mission field and God is telling me to stay here in the meantime. I might not be able to go to the other side of the world and share the gospel. But I can pray and give money to support the gospel and the glory & supremacy of God being made known. It’s going to be awesome to see all these people in heaven who I’ve never even met and see how God has used my resources to help bring the gospel to their nation. I’m going to see people I’ve never spoken to but who I’ve prayed for my whole life. I’m rendered speechless when I think about it.

* This was so good I had to share it. 

So anyways I talked to Ben (If you don’t already, please follow him. I’m always encouraged by his blogs and he is extremely articulate and writes with such biblical wisdom.) about this and here was his reply: 

“I feel extraordinarily unqualified to answer this question. So first I’ll link you to the friend who led me in this direction. 

I’ll also let Paul answer your question. In 2 Cor 8 and 9, there’s a lot about giving. I wish I understood the Corinthians better, but my general (possibly wrong) understanding is that Paul sent them four letters, two of which are in the canon. At the time of 2 Cor, they have shaped up considerably, and they had promised to give a large gift. The verse about Jesus becoming poor is in 2 Cor 8—interestingly, Paul describes it as “the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ”, possibly meaning that richness in Jesus is synonymous or wrapped up in the grace of Jesus. So grace is somehow tied to giving.

Because I’m not actually making any money right now, being an unemployed college student, verse 12 is personally clarifying—essentially, giving is acceptable based on what I have. So it seems simple. What I have right now—some money in my bank account, (way too many) clothes, and random other earthly possessions—should be the basis for my gifts. [A lot of what I have is actually from my parents, which confuses the issue.] Anyway, Brendan actually sold some of his stuff, like his Chrome messenger bag. I dunno if I said this before, but he also tried to limit his expenses as much as possible—not only with food (eating only rice/beans/cabbage) but also with rent (he lived with friends in a small corner of the living room). He gave his money (that he got via gainful employment) to advancing the gospel—“the participation in the support of the saints”—through Gospel for Asia and people he knew personally. 

Anyway, it’s also interesting that Paul is being really encouraging. He’s excited that they’re giving their money, and perhaps because it’s actually something that matters? I mean, he spends two chapters on it! Giving has to be a reflection of love, he says, but he’s convinced that they love people, so he encourages them to finish the task and actually give the money that they’ve pledged. 

One more thing I thought was interesting was how Paul focuses on how the money is being carried around—he says that they have regard for what is honorable in the sight of men. I thought of 1 Timothy 5 where Paul talks about being above reproach. Verses 6-8 are a good heads up for where we want to be—

But she who gives herself to wanton pleasure is dead even while she lives. Prescribe these things as well, so that they may be above reproach. But if anyone does not provide for his own, and especially for those of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.

He’s like, even unbelievers can provide for their families. If we can’t, something is horribly wrong. As a guy, this means a lot to me—it means that I should devote all my time, energy, and money to God, because I want to be able to give to other saints as well as provide for my own family. As a college student, I don’t have a lot of money, but the way I use my time lays the groundwork for how I will use my money.  Is there such a thing as “free me time”? or “disposable income”? I think these are terms that make God vomit people out of his mouth. Not to say that I’ve got it figured out, because I don’t, but I am pretty terrified of what happens if I keep living a lazy, self-indulgent life. 

It is really key that it can’t be about the numbers, like “I only spent X dollars on myself, I’m doing good stuff.” It’s about all. Giving an account is more like asking myself a question. It’s, “Why did I buy this?” and “Why do I own this?” It’s imagining Jesus asking me, “Which is more important to you, my name or your pleasure?” This is so much more than money, but it is certainly not less than money! It’s Jesus asking, “Why did you buy another shirt when you could have bought treasure in heaven?” 

Something that gives me hope is far-sightedness. I have hope that down the road, I’m going to make back the money I’ve spent on stupid things. So I buy (essential) things like food, and I will (probably) buy another laptop if mine ever breaks, because I know that the time and labor I put in now will allow me to make more money for God later. For some people it might be different; however, I’m pretty sure that I’m going to make way more than I need, because God gave me the brain and the opportunity to do so, and God is not wasteful with grace.

Again, this hope and love is not well-reflected in the exact amount given away. God is seen and glorified with a heart of giving, and it’s really obvious when you see someone with that heart in this culture, because they live to give their lives away to God. Not for a cause, or a movement, or an organization, but for the name of the Lord Jesus to be proclaimed to those who haven’t heard, because to them, he is a magnificent treasure. Does that make sense? It’s a trade of earthly belongings for kingdom proclamation. People who value Jesus will be astonished that this is even a valid trade! They think, I groan and yearn and long for people to know about the amazing King Jesus, because there is literally nothing more important than Jesus the Christ. 

Anyway, I think you can pretty much read the passages for yourself —Paul is not confusing here. I want to read all of Corinthians now! hahaha this was clearly good for me to write. Thanks for asking!”

Our priority for inner beauty should always be from the inside by placing our confidence and identity in the Lord.

Do you spend the same amount of time and money focusing on your inner beauty as much as appearance? With so many time consuming hobbies such as shopping, doing hair, & applying makeup, it’s easy to get sucked into this consumer culture that pushes for designer clothes, high end makeup, and nice jewelry. This is time consuming and expensive as this reminds us that where you spend your time and money shows what your idol is. In high school, I remember spending more time getting ready  than being in the Word. When my small group leader asked me this question, I was convicted of my sin and repented. The amount of time I spent getting ready in the morning, I would spend double that time praying and reading the Bible. So the longer I spent on my morning routine, the more time I spent trying to pursue sanctification. I grew tremendously and I would definitely encourage anyone who is feeling similar convictions to try it out.

Do not let your adorning be external—the braiding of hair and the putting on of gold jewelry, or the clothing you wear— but let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God’s sight is very precious.- 1 Peter 3:3-4 ESV

The emphasis is that the adorning should be from a gentle and quiet spirit. This is not the same thing as having a quiet personality- it is more of a quiet attitude which is a steadiness and calmness knowing that God has everything under control. Gentle can translate as being tender, compassionate, caring, approachable, and nurturing to other people.

Not pilfering, but showing all good faith, so that in everything they may adorn the doctrine of God our Savior- Titus 2:10 ESV

This brings a few questions to mind: Does what we wear attract people to the gospel? Do we adorn the gospel? I am not saying that we have to stay in our pajamas and never brush our hair. We should make an effort to be presentable, well groomed and clean but our focus should be on Christ & what He finds spiritually beautiful. As John Mac Arthur puts it, “We want to live a virtuous life to make attractive the teaching that God saves sinners.”

Proverbs says that beauty is passing (Proverbs 31:20) but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. The Proverbs 31 woman is a woman of character. She is a sermon and her life shows the gospel. By His grace, I encourage all you women to strive for the inner spirit that God finds so beautiful. 

Soli deo Gloria,

Jasmine

If you missed Part 1 here’s the link! http://jasminecrystal.tumblr.com/post/12867969937/preparing-for-marriage-during-sanctifying-singleness

As John Owen said, “Kill sin or it will be killing you.” As followers of Christ, we are supposed to fight the good fight (1 Timothy 6:12). We are not to justify our sin and are commanded to “put to death what is earthly in you.” (Colossians 3:5)

I’ve noticed that there are several sins common to singles (this is a generalization) and I wanted to address them. 

The cycle typically goes like this:

Self pity for being single -> leads to complaining -> impatience (you want it now) ->leads to bitterness and resentment at God for “withholding” someone from you-> selfishness (due to independent tendencies)-> pride (you know better than God does and you want it now) 

How to make war against sin?

1) Preach the gospel to yourself: You need to preach the gospel to yourself every day. Stop listening to yourself. Jesus died for your sin so that you might live (Galatians 2:20). He died for your self-pity, your comparative righteousness, your bitterness, your complaining heart.  Don’t feed your sin. I know it’s really hard but you are never alone in this. Jesus was tempted in every way that we were. He had desires too but never succumbed to them (Hebrews 4:15).

“The gospel is the only remedy to our sins, and looking at the glory of God is the only way to obey him through Christ.”

Everything you need was bought by Jesus and He will fulfill every promise on your behalf. Phil 4:19 says that “God will supply all your needs.” God is for you and will take care of you we are his children. He will provide for us.

2) Pray: Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God- Philippians 4:6

One of my favorite quotations is,“My feelings are not God. God is God. My feelings do not define truth. God’s word defines truth. My feelings are echoes and responses to what my mind perceives. And sometimes - many times - my feelings are out of sync with the truth. When that happens - and it happens every day in some measure - I try not to bend the truth to justify my imperfect feelings, but rather, I plead with God: Purify my perceptions of your truth and transform my feelings so that they are in sync with the truth.”- Piper

• Pray that the Lord will purify and transform your feelings. To sanctify them in the truth (John 17:17)
• Pray for a repentant heart. The Holy Spirit kills sin. 
• Pray for grace to trust in God more
• Pray that you will love all your sisters and brothers in Christ in a selfless and humble way
• Pray that God will align your desires with His, your Will with His
• Pray for that He will give you patience and steadfastness during this time
• Pray to embrace your God given role
• Pray that God will grant you the courage and boldness to pursue her in a godly manner (men)
• Pray that He will give you discernment in finding a godly spouse
• Pray that You will grow and be able to be a servant leader (men)
• Pray to cultivate inner beauty (women)
• Pray for godly, older mentors

3) Strong accountability will help in your fight against sin. I suggest that you should have a close brother or sister in Christ (of the same gender) to keep you accountable.  I think it’s a wonderful blessing to have both genders as friends. It’s great to fellowship, encourage, and spur one another on in love. However, when it comes to discipleship and accountability, you should be very careful in discerning what you should tell.  [For example, a man cannot talk to a woman about his struggles with lust when she has struggles with her body image/acceptance. You need someone you can confess sin to and point you to Jesus. It would be different if you were both sharing what God has been teaching you or mutual struggles with sins like worrying (still be cautious).  ] Also, an accountability partner will be able to rebuke you in love (Ephesians 4:15) and give you biblical advice. “Accountability isn’t primarily a finger pointing in the face but an arm around the shoulder.” -Burk Parsons

John Piper in his sermon ‘Be killing sin or sin will be killing you’ says that “You must live in such a way that God will be magnified, that God will get the glory. Live the life in the power that God supplies so that you’re not the centerpiece and God is the centerpiece when people are watching you.” 

This world sees singleness as an opportunity to hook up with whoever you want and party around. It is a complete counter-cultural thing to use your singleness as a time to get involved in a church ministry, prepare for marriage, pray, and fight sin. readers The narrow path is always going to be very hard (Matthew 7:13).

On a personal side-note: I want to be open with my readers and I can empathize with you. As a college student living in Orange County where promiscuity is the norm, many people have given me a very hard time on being single. Most of them say things like, “Wow!!! You of all people?!  I can’t believe you’ve been single since birth.” I know what it’s like to get backhanded comments, endless questions, and being the third wheel for the millionth time.  [Every time I’m tempted to complain or feel resentment, I remind myself that I will not rush the Author and Perfecter of Time. Everything rests upon His Sovereign Timing.]The main reason is because not many guys are theologically mature or biblically sound to lead a woman. So to all of you men reading this: Read your Bible, know your doctrine, pray, grow in sanctification, get a job, and fight against sin. And keep doing this when you’re married.

It’s extremely rare to find someone who quietly rests in the goodness of God, waits on His timing, and glorifies Him throughout singleness. People do take notice of that and it leaves a lasting impression. Trying to live a life for the Lord, having a high view of marriage, and striving to stay pure speaks volumes to an unbelieving world. The darker it is outside, the brighter the light shines. As my friend said, “They will know that you’re taking it very seriously, which adds to the authenticity of your desire to glorify God in your singleness to exemplify the gospel in your marriage. “