Better in the Bible

How to Honor Thy Father and Mother if Parents are Abusive

June 18, 2023

Navigating how to honor thy father and mother if parents are abusive can be a delicate and complex journey. The commandment to honor our parents is deeply rooted in religious and cultural traditions, yet when faced with abusive behavior, it raises difficult questions and challenges. In this blog post, we will explore practical strategies and compassionate insights to help individuals navigate the complexities of honoring abusive parents while prioritizing their own safety and well-being.

Context of Exodus 20:12 in The Old Testament:

Exodus 20:12, found in the Old Testament, is a commandment that emphasizes the importance of honoring one's father and mother. In the historical and cultural context of ancient Israel, this commandment was given to establish social order, respect for authority, and the preservation of family unity. It was meant to foster a sense of reverence, gratitude, and care towards parents who played a crucial role in raising and nurturing their children.

How Exodus 20:12 applies to Christians Today:

As Christians, we can find guidance in understanding how Exodus 20:12 applies to our lives in the present day. Jesus Christ, through His teachings, emphasized the importance of love, forgiveness, and compassion. While honoring abusive parents can be challenging, it is crucial to remember that our actions should reflect the teachings of Christ. This means that we should strive to maintain a Christ-like attitude even in difficult circumstances, seeking to extend grace, forgiveness, and understanding where possible.

How to Honor Thy Father and Mother if Parents are Abusive:

1. Parents' Sin Doesn't Mean We Need to Sin:

When parents behave in abusive or harmful ways, it can be tempting to respond with anger, resentment, or retaliation. However, it is important to remember that their sin does not justify our own. We should strive to rise above the negative patterns set by our parents and choose a different path. Rather than shaming them for their choices, we can maintain our integrity by setting healthy boundaries and responding to their actions with grace and love.

2. Seek Support and Counseling:

Dealing with abusive parents can be emotionally and psychologically challenging. It is essential to seek support from trusted friends, family members, or professionals who can provide guidance and help navigate these difficult circumstances. Counseling or therapy can be immensely beneficial in processing the emotions associated with abuse and developing healthy coping mechanisms. Remember, seeking help is not a sign of weakness but a brave step towards healing and growth.

3. Establish Healthy Boundaries:

While honoring one's parents is important, it does not mean tolerating ongoing abuse. Establishing clear and firm boundaries is crucial for self-preservation and maintaining a healthy relationship, if possible. Communicate your boundaries assertively, emphasizing that while you desire a respectful and loving relationship, certain behaviors will not be tolerated. This can help create a safer environment and provide an opportunity for healing and growth for both parties involved.

4. Practice Forgiveness:

Forgiveness is a challenging but transformative act. It does not mean condoning the abusive behavior or forgetting the past. Instead, it is a conscious choice to let go of resentment and anger, freeing oneself from the emotional burden. Forgiving abusive parents can be a long and complex process, but it is vital for one's own emotional well-being. By forgiving, we release ourselves from the chains of bitterness and open the door to healing and restoration.

5. Find Healthy Role Models:

If our parents have failed to provide a healthy example, it is essential to seek out positive role models who can guide us in developing healthy relationships and behaviors. Look for mentors, friends, or community members who exhibit qualities you admire and can provide support and guidance on your journey. Learning from those who exemplify love, respect, and compassion can help reshape our understanding of healthy relationships.

Honoring abusive parents is undoubtedly challenging, but by following the principles of love, forgiveness, and setting boundaries, we can navigate this difficult path with grace and integrity. Remember, honoring does not mean enabling abuse, but rather seeking to maintain our own well-being while extending grace where possible. With the support of others and a commitment to personal growth, we can find healing and move forward in our own lives, breaking the cycle of abuse and creating a better future.

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How Old Is The Earth According to the Bible?

June 11, 2023

How Old Is The Earth According to the Bible? This intriguing question has captivated the minds of scholars, theologians, and curious individuals alike. As we delve into the realms of religious perspectives and scriptural interpretations, we embark on a journey to explore the biblical understanding of the Earth's age. Delving into the rich tapestry of biblical texts and genealogical records, we aim to uncover the insights and varying viewpoints that shed light on this age-old inquiry.

How old is the Earth according to the Bible?

According to the Bible, determining the exact age of the Earth can be challenging due to interpretational differences among scholars and theologians. However, some Bible scholars have attempted to estimate the Earth's age by tracing back the genealogical records mentioned in the Old Testament. One well-known estimation is based on the biblical genealogies from Adam to Jesus Christ. By adding up the ages of individuals mentioned in these genealogies, some have concluded that the Earth is approximately 6,000 years old.

It's important to note that this interpretation is not universally accepted and has sparked debate within Christian circles. The genealogical approach assumes a strict chronological reading of the Bible, taking into account the ages of individuals and the events mentioned. However, there are alternative interpretations that consider factors such as symbolic meanings or gaps in the genealogical records. As a result, the Bible does not provide a definitive answer regarding the precise age of the Earth.

How old is the Earth according to science?

In contrast to the biblical perspective, scientific research suggests that the Earth is approximately 4.5 billion years old. Scientists have arrived at this estimation using a variety of dating methods, such as radiometric dating, which measures the decay of radioactive isotopes found in rocks and minerals. These dating techniques allow scientists to analyze the age of the Earth's rocks and the minerals they contain, providing valuable insights into our planet's history.

Radiometric dating methods, including uranium-lead dating and potassium-argon dating, have been instrumental in determining the age of the Earth. By studying the ratios of parent and daughter isotopes in rocks and minerals, scientists can calculate the time that has passed since their formation. These methods have been extensively peer-reviewed and have stood up to rigorous scientific scrutiny, leading to a consensus among the scientific community that the Earth is billions of years old.

Arguments for the Earth being 6,000 years old:

Despite the scientific consensus, there are arguments put forth by some individuals who believe in a young Earth, primarily based on biblical interpretations. One argument often cited is the concept of "apparent age," which suggests that God created the Earth with the appearance of age. This viewpoint asserts that the Earth may have been created with geological features that make it appear older than it actually is.

Another argument is based on the belief in a global catastrophic event, such as Noah's Flood, which could have significantly altered the Earth's geological processes and dating methods. According to this perspective, the flood could have caused rapid sedimentation and other geological changes, making the Earth appear older than it truly is.

Additionally, some proponents of a young Earth argue that scientific dating methods are flawed and unreliable. They claim that assumptions made in radiometric dating techniques, such as the constant decay rates of isotopes, are not necessarily accurate or consistent. They propose alternative models that suggest rapid decay rates or other mechanisms to explain the observed data.

No Written Language before 6,000 Years Ago:

The absence of written language before approximately 6,000 years ago is a significant point to consider in the discussion of the Earth's age. Writing is a fundamental tool for recording and transmitting knowledge, culture, and history. The earliest known writing systems, such as cuneiform and hieroglyphics, emerged around 3,500 BCE in Mesopotamia and ancient Egypt, respectively. These systems marked a major milestone in human civilization, allowing for the preservation of information over long periods.

If there were humans living on Earth prior to the development of writing, it is reasonable to assume that they would have left some form of written records or inscriptions. However, the absence of such evidence raises intriguing questions. Could it be that human civilization, as we understand it today, did not exist or had not reached a stage where writing was necessary? Alternatively, it is also possible that any early forms of writing may not have survived the ravages of time due to their perishable nature or the lack of preservation.

While the lack of written language before 6,000 years ago does not definitively prove the Earth's age, it does provide a valuable piece of evidence to consider within the broader discussion. It emphasizes the significance of written records in understanding and unraveling human history and prompts us to explore other forms of evidence, such as archaeological discoveries and oral traditions, to piece together the puzzle of our ancient past.

Conclusion:

The question of the Earth's age has been approached from both biblical and scientific perspectives. While the Bible does not provide a definitive answer, some interpretations based on genealogical records suggest a relatively young Earth of approximately 6,000 years. On the other hand, scientific research utilizing radiometric dating methods suggests that the Earth is approximately 4.5 billion years old.

It's important to respect and understand differing viewpoints on this topic. Both the biblical and scientific perspectives offer valuable insights into our understanding of the Earth's age. As our knowledge and scientific advancements continue to progress, it is possible that new discoveries may shed further light on this intriguing question. Ultimately, the exploration of the Earth's age serves to highlight the diverse ways in which we seek to comprehend the world around us.

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25 Best Kids Motivational Quotes From the Bible

June 04, 2023

In the quest to nurture the hearts and minds of our children, nothing quite compares to the timeless wisdom found within the Bible. The pages of scripture offer a treasure trove of inspiration, guidance, and motivation specifically tailored for young minds. These kids motivational quotes from the Bible have the power to ignite a flame of faith, resilience, and purpose within their hearts, equipping them to face life's challenges with unwavering strength.

How to Use Kids Motivational Quotes from the Bible

Incorporating kids motivational quotes from the Bible into daily life can be a powerful way to inspire and uplift young hearts. One effective method is to create a positive and engaging environment where these quotes can thrive. Consider decorating your living spaces or study areas with colorful posters or wall art featuring uplifting Bible verses. This visual reminder serves as a constant source of encouragement, reminding children of God's love and their inherent worth.

Another way to utilize kids' motivational quotes from the Bible is through daily affirmations and discussions. Encourage children to choose a quote that resonates with them and discuss its meaning and relevance to their lives. Take time each day to reflect on the chosen verse, discussing how it can provide guidance or encouragement in different situations. By actively engaging with these quotes, children develop a deeper understanding of the timeless wisdom contained within the Bible and learn how to apply it to their own lives.

The Importance of Kids Motivational Quotes from the Bible

Kids motivational quotes from the Bible hold immense significance in shaping the character and mindset of young individuals. These quotes provide a strong moral foundation, instilling values such as kindness, perseverance, and gratitude. Through the stories and teachings found within the Bible, children learn timeless lessons of faith, compassion, and the power of love.

Furthermore, kids' motivational quotes from the Bible serve as a source of comfort and strength during challenging times. They remind children that they are never alone and that God's presence and guidance are always available. In a world that can often feel overwhelming, these quotes offer a sense of hope and assurance, helping children develop resilience and the belief that they can overcome any obstacle.

How to Teach Kids to Memorize Verses

Teaching kids to memorize Bible verses is a valuable skill that helps them internalize the words of wisdom and carry them in their hearts throughout life. One effective approach is to make memorization fun and interactive. Break down the verse into smaller sections and create simple hand motions or gestures that correspond to each part. Engage children in repeating and performing these gestures as they recite the verse. This kinesthetic learning technique aids in memory retention and makes the process enjoyable for kids.

Additionally, incorporating repetition and consistency is key. Set aside a dedicated time each day for verse memorization. Encourage children to write the verse on notecards or create colorful flashcards with the verse written on one side and the reference on the other. Practice reciting the verse together, gradually adding new verses as they become more comfortable. Celebrate their progress and offer praise and encouragement along the way.

25 Best Kids Motivational Quotes from the Bible

"I can do all things through him who strengthens me." - Philippians 4:13
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding." - Proverbs 3:5
"Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go." - Joshua 1:9
"The Lord is my strength and my shield." - Psalm 28:7
"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope." - Jeremiah 29:11
"Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." - Isaiah 41:10
"Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven." - Matthew 5:16
"But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light." - 1 Peter 2:9
"The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want." - Psalm 23:1
"For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control." - 2 Timothy 1:7
"I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made." - Psalm 139:14
"But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you." - Matthew 6:33
"For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother's womb." - Psalm 139:13
"Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity." - 1 Timothy 4:12
"You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden." - Matthew 5:14
"The Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing." - Zephaniah 3:17
"Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you." - Ephesians 4:32
"And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up." - Galatians 6:9
"The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit." - Psalm 34:18
"Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer." - Romans 12:12
"For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord." - Romans 8:38-39
"I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you." - Psalm 119:11
"And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose." - Romans 8:28
"For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding." - Proverbs 2:6
"Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person." - Colossians 4:6

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How to Break Cell Phone Addiction

May 28, 2023

If you're finding yourself having a hard time breaking up with your cell phone, and are wondering how to break cell phone addiction, hopefully, these tips, tricks, and my own experience can encourage you to know you're not alone in this battle.

My Experience with Cell Phone Addiction:

For years I've had a really hard time managing my screen time and scrolling my phone for hours and hours on end. I think in some ways it was a way for me to avoid things that were going on in my life whether it was personal life struggles, mental health, hard seasons with kids, etc... It's so simple to just turn to your phone and scroll Instagram or TitkTok, and before you know it, an hour or more of your life is gone in the blink of an eye.

I think I denied that I had a problem for a really long time. As someone who works in marketing, I would tell myself it was part of my job to be on my phone, and that my four hours a day of screen time was part of my job. In reality, I didn't need to be on my phone that much, and my actual work accounted for about 30 minutes of those 4 hours each day. If I was stressed, I would scroll on my phone, if I was bored, I would scroll on my phone, if I was at a red light, I'd check my email. There was so much time throughout the day that I was mindlessly grabbing my phone for no reason.

This all came to a head for me when I went on a mission trip to India in the winter and didn't have access to my cell phone. I essentially didn't use my phone for a week and a half, and was so proud when I got home and averaged 15 minutes of phone use a day, which was mainly me using my camera for pictures and videos.

The week I had gotten home though, my screen time was up to 5 hours a day and I kind of snapped and decided enough was enough. I started treating my phone like the plague on my life that it really was. From that moment I decided my screen time was never going to be that high again, and three months later I can say the highest average of screen time in a week that I have had on my phone has been an hour and a half per day, although most weeks I'm averaging under an hour per day.

How to Break Cell Phone Addiction:

Now that you've heard about my experience with cell phone addiction you might be thinking, "But how did you actually break the addiction?", there were a few things that I did, and still do, and hopefully some of these tips will be practical for your life as well.

Turn Screen Time On:

If you have an Apple phone, go into the settings and make sure screen time tracking is turned on. That way you can get a notification at the end of each week telling you how long you were on your phone each day. I also like to look at this throughout the day to see how I'm doing on my screen time for that day in particular so I can convict myself and know where I'm at for the day.

Tell Yourself You Will Not Touch Your Phone At All Costs:

Just simply put, consider your phone to be the enemy in this equation, and mentally tell yourself that you will not touch it. I leave my phone near me all day when I'm working because I do need it for work, and when my kids are at school I like to know if the school is trying to contact me, but for the most part, I do not touch it, and that is just a clear boundary that I have for myself. I only reach for it if it's essential, and if it's not, I don't touch it.

Do What You Need on A Computer:

If I'm reaching for my phone, but know that I can do the same task on the computer, then I will opt to hop onto my computer for that task instead. Scrolling is just way less fun and addicting for me on my computer than it is on my phone, so I know that even if I hop on Instagram on my computer to read my messages, I won't stay for the scroll because the desktop version just isn't as great.

Put Your Phone in Another Room:

If you can, and you feel you need to, put your phone in another room. Out of sight out of mind. Do this while you work, while you read your bible, while you read a book, etc... just get away from your phone and find something else to do.

Do Something Outside:

Spend time in silence and solitude outside. Lay in a hammock, get some sun, and just sit in your own thoughts. This can be hard for some people, but it's something that I've come to really enjoy. Our minds don't always need to be stimulated by something, and it's okay to just sit with your own self.

Replace the Scroll with Another Activity:

As mentioned a little earlier, if you catch yourself going for the scroll, replace it with another activity. Read a book, get some exercise, turn to your bible, go outside, and find something else to replace your time. If you don't find something to replace the scroll then you'll have no chance of breaking the addiction. Explore new hobbies and simply be conscious of the times you're reaching for your phone.

Delete Apps That You're Likely to Scroll:

Delete the apps that are most tempting for you to scroll. For me, it was Instagram and TikTok. I deleted TikTok from my phone and haven't downloaded it since. I need IG for work so it had to stay on my phone, but for the most part, I try to post as fast as I can and get off as fast as I can.

Turn Off Notifications for Apps:

If you have notifications turned on for any non-essential apps, turn them off. Even if they aren't for IG or another app. The reason is, anytime you get a notification, it's just a temptation to grab your phone and start scrolling. Avoid the temptation by making your phone make the least amount of distractions in your life as possible.

Set Goals:

Set a time goal that you want to stay under each day, and do everything in your power to make it a reality. For me, I wanted to be under an hour every single day. Some weeks I'm great, some I'm slightly over, but less than an hour per day is the goal. For you, it might be two hours, or simply cutting whatever you're currently doing in half. Whatever the goal, set the goal, and then check in on your screen time throughout the day and adjust accordingly to make sure you're on track for your goal.

Set App Timers:

Set an app timer for the apps you're most likely to use excessively. I have a friend who has a time limit set for IG each day, and only her husband knows the password to bypass the timer, so once she is locked out, she is locked out for the day. This is a great way to practice accountability too.

These are the ways that I have helped myself overcome my phone addiction. I will admit, once I was adamant about changing the habit, actually implementing it was pretty easy for me to accomplish. I hope that some of these tips and tricks can be helpful for you as you're working through this as well. Remember that you can also pray for the strength and power to be equipped to overcome any habit or challenge you face and that the Holy Spirit can strengthen you when you call upon the Lord for help.

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My Experience Writing Out The Bible By Hand

May 21, 2023

In March 2023 I started writing out the Bible by hand. What started as something I had seen on TikTok and wanted to try and replicate has turned into a really sacred part of my daily life that I have come to really enjoy.

Why Did I Start Writing Out The Bible By Hand?

I had seen someone on TikTok do a live stream about them writing out the Bible by hand. If you're wondering, yes, my TikTok feed is primarily obscure Christian videos about Jesus, although I haven't been on TikTok in months, and that's another story for another day.

When I saw this guy handwriting the bible though, I immediately thought, could I do that? I stewed on the idea for months. I'm constantly ruled by FOMO (fear of missing out), and it felt like I was really missing out by not writing the bible by hand.

A few months after seeing this video I went on a mission trip to India that was life-changing for me in a lot of different ways and really put into perspective for me how I want to live my life, and what I want my life to look like on a day-to-day basis. Ultimately, I wanted more Jesus and less of everything else. When I got home I decided if I want more Jesus, I need to spend more time with him, and what better way to spend more time with him than writing the bible?

How Long Does Writing Out The Bible By Hand Take?

I have looked over quite a few blogs about people who have written the bible by hand and have come to two conclusions. Either one, everyone who has done this writes really slow, or two, I write really fast. I can write an entire chapter of the bible in 30 minutes. From what I've seen elsewhere online, that is about half the time it takes other people to write a chapter.

I originally set out to write 4 chapters a day and have the entire thing done within 9 months, but I quickly learned that I didn't have the bandwidth to keep up with a two-hour per-day practice. I have since scaled back and am writing one chapter a day. This means it will take me about three years to finish since there are 1189 chapters in the bible. I do plan on picking up the pace when I hit Psalms, Proverbs, Job, etc... where the chapters are much shorter. I anticipate the entire process taking me no longer than three years. As of writing this, I'm currently at Leviticus 21.

My Process for Writing Out The Bible By Hand:

I try to do my bible writing first thing in the morning before I start my work and other responsibilities. I am currently copying from the ESV translation, and primarily copying from the ESV Gospel Transformation Study Bible. I like that the print is bigger than my thinline bible, and it stays open on my desk easier, making copying fairly simple.

I am currently writing everything in a five-subject notebook, and I anticipate continuing with this throughout the entire process. I find I can write really easily from a notebook, I can fit a lot of text on one page, and when I'm finished it won't be too hard to store multiple notebooks of the same size.

I use a regular ballpoint pen, although I have specifically been using these biodegradable ones because I'm on a "save the planet" kick. I also am just writing with normal printing. I know a lot of people who have done this practice have written in cursive or calligraphy to make it really pretty and special. This is not a skill that I have and I would hate for that to be a barrier for others enjoying this practice as well.

When I write I simply read a sentence or two at a time, write it down word for word, and then move on to the next sentence. I think this might possibly be why I am able to write so fast. It might be due to the fact that I can store a lot of words at once before having to lift my head to scan the bible for words again. I'm also not a slave to perfection in this process. I do value every word being correct in the right order, but if I make a mistake, I'm fine to draw a line through the mistake, correct it, and move on.

The Benefits I've Seen of Writing Out The Bible By Hand:

I definitely have struggled at times with reading the bible and actually comprehending what I'm reading. If I'm just doing a chapter-a-day type of reading, it's easy for my brain to tune out and not retain any information. I find having a study plan I'm working through helps this tremendously, but handwriting the bible has made it stick in ways that nothing else really has for me.

I find myself following the storylines so much deeper. I find myself asking deeper questions, taking notes throughout the process, and then going and finding answers to those questions afterward. The reality is that many of the posts I'm writing here on this blog are actually answers to my own questions that I have had while going through this process. For me, handwriting the bible has brought my comprehension and understanding to a whole new level that I'm super grateful for.

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