Fall 2009 issue

 

 
Welcome to the first issue of More Than Conquerors Magazine!  This issue, Fall 2009, is a "trial-run" issue.  If we receive a good response, we hope and plan to continue the magazine quarterly.  If not, we will continue to post on our blogs, but MTC Magazine will likely be discontinued.  Your input does matter!  For questions and suggestions, please email us at MTCmagazine@yahoo.com.

In this issue, you will find the following articles:

Who Owes Who? (by Urailak)

Tips and Thoughts on Memorization (by Eric and Urailak)

Hymn for Him: May the Mind of Christ, My Savior (by Urailak)

Review of Revolution in World Missions *Free book available for everyone* (by Eric and Alyssa)

Featured Unreached People Group (by Alyssa)

Bridge of Hope (by Alyssa)

Pastors, please...! (by Alyssa)

National Magic Week (by Urailak)

Thanksgiving (by Eric, Urailak, and Alyssa)

Time Management (by Alyssa)

Education (by Alyssa)

The Most Important Lesson I Learned in School (by Alyssa)

Educational Links: Online Spelling/Vocabulary/Word Games (by Urailak)

Christianity and Science Fiction–Review and Giveaway (by Alyssa)

Strange Times (Short story by Alyssa)

Who Owes Who?

I Am Debtor
by Robert M. McCheyne (1813-1843)

When this passing world is done,
When has sunk yon glaring sun,
When we stand with Christ in glory,
Looking o'er life's finished story,
Then, Lord, shall I fully know —
Not till then — how much I owe.

When I hear the wicked call
On the rocks and hills to fall,
When I see them start and shrink
On the fiery deluge brink, —
Then, Lord, shall I fully know —
Not till then — how much I owe.

When I stand before the throne,
Dressed in beauty not my own,
When I see thee as thou art,
Love thee with unsinning heart,
Then, Lord, shall I fully know —
Not till then — how much I owe.

When the praise of heav'n I hear,
Loud as thunder to the ear,
Loud as many water's noise,
Sweet as harp's melodious voice,
Then, Lord, shall I fully know —
Not till then — how much I owe.

Even on earth, as through a glass
Darkly, let Thy glory pass,
Make forgiveness feel so sweet,
Make Thy Spirit's help so meet,
Even on earth, Lord, make me know
Something of how much I owe.

Chosen not for good in me,
Wakened up from wrath to flee,
Hidden in the Saviour's side,
By the Spirit sanctified,
Teach me, Lord, on earth to show,
By my love, how much I owe.

Oft I walk beneath the cloud,
Dark, as midnight's gloomy shroud;
But, when fear is at the height,
Jesus comes, and all is light;
Blessed Jesus! bid me show
Doubting saints how much I owe.

When in flowery paths I tread,
Oft by sin I'm captive led;
Oft I fall — but still arise —
The Spirit comes — the tempter flies;
Blessed Spirit! bid me show
Weary sinners all I owe.

Oft the nights of sorrow reign —
Weeping, sickness, sighing, pain;
But a night Thine anger burns —
Morning comes and joy returns;
God of comforts! Bid me show
To Thy poor, how much I owe.

After I read this poem, the question, “Who Owes Who?” popped into my head. Let’s imagine that you owe somebody money. Would you keep asking and expecting that person to give you food, clothes, shelter, and other things you need & want? No, you would be grateful that this person is not demanding you to pay all your debt right now. And you certainly would become speechless when he canceled your debt because his son paid it all for you. Now imagine that you owe someone your life. Would you be expecting this person to keep protecting you, being there to meet your every need, comforting you, and taking away your pain? No, you would be forever grateful and would do anything for this person. But...what are we doing to God who gives us life on earth and eternal life? How many times have Christians felt that God should answer their prayers according to their will/desire (not His will)? They think that they have been really faithful Christians by obeying His Word (most of the time), consistently giving tithes/firstfruits, sharing the Gospel with others, serving in various ministries, helping the homeless, etc. They then expect God to bless them/reward them or at least answer their prayers. We, Christians, pray for healing, comfort, strength, wisdom, help, solutions, etc. and we totally trust God to answer our prayers. There is nothing wrong with praying and believing. That’s what faith is and that’s what the Bible teaches. However, is our attitude right? Do we act like God owes us something? Are we tapping our fingers and waiting impatiently and wondering what takes God so long to do something for us?

Seriously, God owes us nothing; we owe God everything!

God does not have to love us but He does. “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16

God does not have to forgive us but He does. “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9

God does not have to show grace and mercy to us but He does. “Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” Hebrews 4:16

God does not have to save us from eternal damnation and give us eternal life but He does. “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 6:23

God does not have to answer our prayers but He does. “This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us–whatever we ask–we know that we have what we asked of Him.” 1 John 5:14-15

God does not have to care about us or bear our burdens but He does. “Praise be to the Lord, to God our Savior, who daily bears our burdens.” Psalm 68:19 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28

He does what He does because it’s His character. It’s all about Him, not us. The fact that He loves us so much and gave His one and only Son, Jesus Christ, to be the sacrifice once and for all so that by His grace we are saved through faith in Jesus...is beyond comprehension. By His grace alone, folks! We can do nothing to earn salvation. Jesus paid the debt that we cannot pay. Even if God does nothing else for our lives, we should be eternally grateful for our salvation. We have nothing to complain about whatsoever. We live each day under His grace. When you pray, remember to pray for His will (not your will) to be done because His will is the best and because He is God who owes you nothing.

“In Jesus' name we voice our prayers—
The Bible tells us to;
But may we never use that name
To tell God what to do.”

~D. De Haan

Tips and Thoughts on Bible Memorization

Tips for Bible Memorization by Eric

1. Read the passage you intend to memorize repeatedly.

2. Break it up into sections and memorize each section first. When you’ve memorized a chapter, go back and review the chapter several times before moving on. As you continue memorizing chapters, always go back to the beginning and recap. This will work whether you are memorizing scattered chapters or a book of the Bible. I will use a book of the Bible as an example. If you were memorizing the book of Ephesians, after chapter 2, you would review chapters 1 & 2 a few times, after chapter 3, you would review chapters 1, 2, and 3 several times and so on.

3. Write it out on an index card.

4. If you can, listen to it on a CD (or cassette tape).

5. Make a song out of it; put it to music. This is the best way, in my opinion.



Thoughts on Bible Memorization by Urailak

I would like to encourage you all to take time to memorize the Scriptures which is powerful fuel for energizing our soul. In the future, we may not always have religious freedom in this country. If the Bible were to be taken away from you, the verses you have memorized would be there to remind you of God's love, mercy, and faithfulness, assure you of God's power and providence, encourage you, comfort you, guide you, and feed/nourish you (spiritually). Fill up with this fuel while you can!

"I seek You with all my heart; do not let me stray from Your commands. I have hidden Your word in my heart that I might not sin against You." Psalm 119: 10-11

"How sweet are Your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth! I gain understanding from Your precepts; therefore I hate every wrong path. Your Word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path." Psalm 119:103-105

"Too difficult," you say?

"Not an excuse," I say! If your brain is working, then you can memorize Bible verses. How many movie lines can you quote? How many song lyrics do you know by heart? How many ad slogans are stuck in your head permanently? You get the point. Sadly, some parents/teachers make their students memorize poems, famous political speeches and documents, etc. but never or hardly encourage them to memorize the Scriptures. It gives me great joy to see my kids delight in the Lord and His Word.

"Too busy," you say?

"Not an excuse," I say! Do you still eat your meals even on the days you are busy? If you take care of your body by taking in nutrients through eating your food everyday, why would you not daily feed yourself with God's Word and be willing to starve yourself spiritually? Without taking in God's Word daily, you will get weaker and weaker spiritually. Therefore, reading/studying the Bible each day is very important. Now...think of memorizing Bible verses as eating snacks throughout the day. Snacks give us extra boost of energy and sustain/fulfill us until our next meal. Bible memorization is similar but even better :)...keeping us energized throughout our lifetime (once in a while, we may need to review what we've already memorized because forgetfulness does happen to some of us :)).

Tools that Help
- You can find helpful resources, ideas, and tips at the Scripture Memory Support website.
- Integrity Music's Scripture Memory Songs (There are many CDs and cassette tapes to choose from.)
- Steve Green's Hide 'Em In Your Heart (Bible Memory CDs or Music Videos) Vol. I, II
- NIV Kids Club Sing Along Scripture Songs (CDs or videos): Psalms, Proverbs, Colossians

If you know of other tools that may help us in memorizing the Scriptures, please share in the comment section. Thanks and have fun hiding God's Word in your heart!

Hymn for Him: May the Mind of Christ, My Savior

"Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ." (Ephesians 5:19-20) I love hymns. They are so rich in messages, meanings, & melodies, and deep in thoughts & feelings towards God; they are truly inspiring, and often Biblically-based.

"Hymns breathe the praise of the saints,
The vision of the prophets,
The prayers of the penitent and the spirit of the martyrs.
They bring solace to the sad, assurance to the perplexed,
Faith to the doubter and comfort to the oppressed.
They span the centuries of history and bridge the barriers of denominations.
Study them to be pure in heart;
Sing them to be joyful in spirit,
Store them in the mind to possess a treasury of worship."

~Unknown

Appreciation of hymns and singing of hymns are increasingly uncommon in most of today’s churches and Christian families. Hymns are becoming like lost treasures. They have such rich history behind them/their writers that we can learn from. We hope you all will be blessed by this column, “Hymn for Him.”

Our first Hymn for Him is May the Mind of Christ, My Savior by Kate B. Wilkinson (1859-1928).

May the mind of Christ, my Savior, live in me from day to day, by His love and pow’r controlling all I do and say.
May the Word of God dwell richly in my heart from hour to hour, so that all may see I triumph only thru His pow’r.
May the peace of God, my Father, rule my life in ev’rything that I may be calm to comfort sick and sorrowing.
May the love of Jesus fill me, as the waters fill the sea; Him exalting, self-abasing–this is victory.
May I run the race before me strong and brave to face the foe, looking only unto Jesus as I onward go.
May His beauty rest upon me as I seek the lost to win, and may they forget the channel, seeing only Him.

This hymn is our prayer. We desire to be Christ-like in our thoughts, attitudes, speech, actions, and reactions/responses. Take time to reflect on this hymn and Philippians 2:1-16. May we imitate Christ’s humility, share His self-less love, embrace His peace, and live according to His Word!

You can listen to this hymn at http://songsandhymns.org/player/?hymn=May-the-Mind-of-Christ-My-Savior .

Review of Revolution in World Missions

Review by Alyssa

Revolution in World Missions is one of my top ten favorite books. I strongly recommend it to as many people as I can. Why? Because it is such an important book. It helps to instill a passion for fulfilling the Great Commission, which every believer must have. It equips you to literally reach the world for Christ. If I could somehow put this in the hands of every Christian, I would. In fact, I hope everyone reading this will go request their free copy of this book right now! Gospel for Asia is completely trustworthy; you do not have to worry about it being a scam. Many people have said this is a life changing book–and I agree! The amazing thing is that it doesn’t just change the life of the reader...it also changes the lives of thousands of unreached people as well. Why did I say that? Because if your heart is soft enough to be changed by this book, you will put it into practice and take an active part in the revolution in world missions. My heart and mouth cry out to God that the body of Christ would open their eyes and hearts to the truth and that they would use the resources God has blessed them with to give people the opportunity to know God. Oh, how I pray for this! Please join us in the most worthy mission ever...to take the Gospel of Jesus Christ to those who have never heard!


Review by Eric

Revolution in World Missions is an indispensable guide to world missions. It focuses on effectively reaching the world through indigenous missions. Through training and supporting indigenous missionaries, the Great Commission can be accomplished much faster and with far less cost. The cost to support a native missionary is 10-30 times less than the cost to support a western missionary. This means that for the cost of 1 western missionary, 10-30 native missionaries could be sent. The Church needs to be frugal and wise in the use of its resources. If we stay, we need to do all we can to maximize our money and send it to organizations that are proclaiming the true Gospel of Jesus in the unreached people groups.

Featured Unreached People Group

Shaikh of Bangladesh

There are 0.00% Christians; they are100% Muslim. There are 131,167,000 Shaikh in Bangladesh. Just think about that for a moment. Over 131 million people with no Christians among them. This is a tragedy. The body of Christ cannot sit back and do nothing!

“Spiritual darkness has prevailed over the land of the Shaikh for many centuries. The real struggle is unseen. Much, much prayer is needed.” -Joshua Project

Yes, please pray! And if at all possible, please give to organizations such as Gospel for Asia who are reaching unreached people groups everyday. Instead of your money going to fund a new sound system (while the old one is still working) at your church or a new fancy building (when the old building is fine), you could be reaching people with the Gospel! You could be having a true eternal impact. Please consider this alternative.

Bridge of Hope

Gospel for Asia’s Bridge of Hope program is not just another child sponsorship program. What makes it different? Here are three reasons. 1. All the children are among unreached peoples. 2. Their focus is on evangelism, not just humanitarian aid. 3. The children are among the poorest of the poor. Many of them are Dalits or “untouchables.”

It only costs $28 a month to change a child’s life! Often an entire community is changed in the process. Again, GFA is not only about helping children's physical needs, but also meeting their spiritual needs. GFA is making an eternal impact by telling them the Gospel of Jesus Christ.  Would you like to be a part of that?

What the child you sponsor is provided with:

-The message of Jesus' love
-A quality education
-School uniforms
-Medical care
-Nutritious meals

If you cannot afford to make this monthly commitment, you still have the opportunity to make a difference! You can give to the unsponsored children fund. There are so many children still awaiting sponsorship that you can help!

Pastors, please!

Pastors, please...

Do give a clear Gospel presentation. Here is a very helpful article, “How To Botch An Altar Call.” (32 ways how NOT to give an altar call). http://www.wayofthemaster.com/botchaltarcall.shtml

Do work to reach the unreached with the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Do use your resources wisely to best fulfill the Great Commission and help the neediest among mankind.

Do preach directly from the Word of God.

Do stand firm against anything contrary to the Bible.

Do warn your congregation of false prophets and preachers that arise.

Do stand up for the truth no matter how unpopular it is.

Do admit when you’re proven wrong by Scripture.

Don’t play loud music, rock music (the types that we cannot understand the words at all), etc. (How can we focus on worshiping God when we have to plug our ears?)

Don’t allow women to preach.

Don’t water down the Gospel or any other part of Scripture.

Don’t be afraid to offend people.

Don’t live in luxury or extravagance.

Don’t spend God's money on fancy church buildings, unnecessary programs, and/or unnecessary equipment.

National Magic Week

You will never hear the word “magic” in our house. We use the word “illusion” when we talk about the tricks performed by illusionists. There’s another kind of magic that is dangerous and harmful...the kind that God hates. It is witchcraft/sorcery.

“Let no one be found among you who sacrifices his son or daughter in the fire, who practices divination or sorcery, interprets omens, engages in witchcraft, or cast spells, or who is a medium or spiritist or who consults the dead. Anyone who does these things is detestable to the Lord.” Deuteronomy 18:10-12a

“Do not practice divination or sorcery.” Leviticus 19:26b

“They sacrificed their sons and daughters in the fire. They practiced divination and sorcery and sold themselves to do evil in the eyes of the Lord, provoking Him to anger.” 2 Kings 17:17

“Therefore this is what the Sovereign Lord says: I am against your magic charms with which you ensnare people like birds and I will tear them from your arms; I will set free the people that you ensnare like birds.” Ezekiel 13:20

“The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.” Galatians 5:19-21

“But the cowardly, the unbelieving, the vile, the murderers, the sexually immoral, those who practice magic arts, the idolaters and all liars–their place will be in the fiery lake of burning sulfur. This is the second death.” Revelation 21:8

“Blessed are those who wash their robes, that they may have the right to the tree of life and may go through the gates into the city. Outside are the dogs, those who practice magic arts, the sexually immoral, the murderers, the idolaters and everyone who loves and practices falsehood.” Revelation 22:14-15

This is not something to be taken lightly. The Lord hates it; we should also hate it and avoid it at all cost. Some Christians think it is not wrong to read books and/or watch movies that contain magic/witchcraft/sorcery. Some also think it is not wrong to celebrate Halloween and dress their kids up as witches or wizards. If the Lord is so strongly against it, why would we think we can play around with it? Why would we act like we know better than God? He loves us and wants to protect us from harm. You may think a little magic here and there is harmless, but anything that is against God is sin. Of course, satan wants us to think magic is harmless; he is a master of lies and deception. He likes to fill our minds and hearts with things that draw us away from God.  You can read a great article regarding Halloween at http://www.equip.org/hank_speaks_outs/halloween.


In addition, I do not think Christian authors need to or should weave any magic/witchcraft/sorcery into their stories...even if they intend to use their stories to point people to God and the Gospel. God is omnipotent, omniscient, omnipresent, and the Gospel is powerful and effective in itself. God does not need the help of magic (the thing He hates) to get people interested in Him. It is really an insult to God.

Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving by Urailak

As Thanksgiving Day approaches, I think a heart exam seems appropriate :) (no...not a warning about fat & cholesterol piled up during Thanksgiving feasts). What is our heart condition? "A thankful heart is a happy heart." (a theme message in Madame Blueberry) Do we have a thankful heart? Truly thankful? Not thankful only for material things...for worldly pleasures, but truly thankful to God in all circumstances... Do we daily thank God for who He is and what He has done? Or do we only thank Him when He answers our prayers the way we want, or only when we have been blessed with something big?

"Give thanks to the Lord, call on His name; make known among the nations what He has done." 1 Chronicles 16:8

"Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise; give thanks to Him and praise His name. For the Lord is good and His love endures forever; His faithfulness continues through all generations." Psalm 100:4-5

"But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ." 1 Corinthians 15:57

"Always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ." Ephesians 5:20

"So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in Him, rooted and built up in Him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness." Colossians 2:6-7

"Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful." Colossians 4:2

"Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." 1Thessalonians 5:16-18

"Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for our 'God is a consuming fire.'" Hebrews 12:28-29

"By Him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to His name." Hebrews 13:15

"Thankfulness is the soil in which joy thrives." ~Unknown

"When thou hast thanked thy God for every blessing sent,
What time will then remain for murmurs or lament?" ~Unknown

A thankful heart not only produces a happy heart but also gives us a right/pleasant attitude. The attitude of awe, admiration, reverence, and gratitude for the Almighty God! Other benefits include contentment, joy, peace, complaint-free atmosphere, no envy, no covetousness, desire/eagerness to give and share, etc., besides doing God's will.

I will never forget what a dear friend of mine said when I visited her and her daughter at the hospital after a car accident that took her son's life and left her daughter in critical condition. I went there to encourage and comfort her but instead, her words touched me deeply. She said, "I'm so thankful that the Lord gave me all those years to homeschool my kids. I thank Him for all the time we spent together." She retained a thankful heart throughout the whole ordeal. Wow...isn't that a wonderful example of "giving thanks in all circumstances"?


A Simple Prayer of Thanksgiving by Helen Steiner Rice

I come not to ask, to plead or implore You,
I just come to tell You how much I adore You,
For to kneel in Your Presence makes me feel blest
For I know that You know all my needs best...

And it fills me with joy just to linger with You
As my soul You replenish and my heart You renew,
For prayer is much more than just asking for things--
It's the peace and contentment that quietness brings...

So thank You again for Your mercy and love
And for making me heir to YOUR KINGDOM ABOVE!


Father, We Thank Thee by Grenville Kleiser

Father, we thank Thee:
For peace within our favored land,
For plenty from Thy bounteous hand,
For means to give to those in need,
For grace to help in thought and deed,
For faith to walk, our hands in Thine,
For truth to know Thy law divine,
For strength to work with voice and pen,
For love to serve our fellow men,
For light to goal ahead to see,
For life to use alone for Thee,
Father, we thank Thee.
 
 

Thanksgiving by Alyssa

To be thankful when you’re surrounded by your family and friends around a table loaded with good food...is easy. To be thankful when you live in a comfortable house with plenty to eat and wear and plenty of things you don’t even need...is easy. To be thankful when happy and healthy...is easy. But how about when things go wrong? Then, it’s tough. When someone dies or is sick...it’s tough. When someone doesn’t have enough to eat or wear or clean drinking water...it’s tough. When someone is being persecuted or harassed...it’s tough. How, then, can we “be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus”(1 Thessalonians 5:17)? Notice that it says IN all circumstances not BECAUSE of all circumstances. This is important. You are not supposed to rejoice that a miscarriage happened. You are not supposed to be thankful that the holocaust happened or that abortion has killed over fifty million innocent lives. To be thankful because of such things would be sick. We should grieve about such things. That is not the point of this verse. The point is that we can be thankful IN all circumstances because regardless of what happened, our Redeemer lives!


Thanksgiving by Eric

“Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Thanksgiving is a command of the Lord and the will of God.

“Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise; give thanks to Him and praise His name.” Psalm 100:4

When we enter into the presence of the Lord, we should come first with thanksgiving. This should then lead to praise and then ultimately to worship. We need to have thankful hearts. Thankfulness flows out of realizing all God has done for us through Jesus, forgiving our sins and saving us from an eternity in hell. Those of us who are believers have been saved unto new life with Him. We have the privilege of being in His presence forever.

John 17:3, “Now this is eternal life: That they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom You have sent.”

Thankfulness is being grateful for what we have, not take anything for granted, and realizing how far God has brought us.

Time Management

Since (home)school has started, it can be easy to feel completely swamped with things to do. With subjects to study and assignments to complete, it’s easy to let school push everything else out of your life. Often, however, it is because of our lack of time management that we are left with no time to use in other worthwhile pursuits.

Here are some tips:

- Make spending time with God a priority. No matter how busy you are, do not let it keep you from praying, reading and meditating on God’s Word, memorizing Scripture, and praising God.

- Rise early. It can be very tempting to sleep in late but if we do, we have already lost hours of time.

- Make a to-do list. Set down goals to accomplish for the day, week, month, etc. It really does help to keep you focused.

- Again, prioritize. Put relationships before things. Put work before play. Even after you have finished school and chores for the day, there are things that should be done before play. Sharpening and using your particular talents, for instance.

- Avoid “little” distractions. Checking your email for the tenth time when you’re supposed to be working on the computer is a good example of those seemingly small distractions that steal away our time.

- Learn from your mistakes. Write a list of all the things that your time is used on. Which are necessary? Which are beneficial? Which are unimportant? Are you putting too much time into playing computer or video games, watching TV, surfing the internet, reading fiction, etc.? Identify which areas you need to work on and try to cut back.

I would love to hear how you strive to manage your time wisely! Please feel free to leave a comment with your ideas.

“Be very careful, then, how you live--not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore, do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.” Ephesians 5:15-17

Education

How do you define education? I define it differently than most people.

Schooling is not the same thing as education. A person can go to school all their life or get schooling all their life and not be well educated. We can and should be well educated; however, we must define education properly. I think these two quotes regarding education are wonderful:

In part of a letter William Buell Sprague wrote to his daughter in the 1800's, he said, “I would have you, then, in the first place, bear in mind that the great object of your education is to enable you to bring into exercise the powers which God has given you in such a manner as shall contribute most to His glory. For all the noble faculties with which you are gifted, you are indebted to the same Being who gave you your existence: on Him also you are dependent for their preservation; and it is a first dictate of reason that they should be employed in His service. ...The object of education then is twofold: to develop the faculties and to direct them; to bring out the energies of the soul, and to bring them to operate to the glory of the Creator. In other words, it is to render you useful to the extent of your ability.”
(This was taken from the book entitled So Much More by Anna Sofia and Elizabeth Botkin which cited it this way: Sprague, William Buell, 1795-1876, Letters on Practical Subjects, to a Daughter, 11th American ed., New York, n.d.)

Anna Sofia and Elizabeth Botkin went on to say, “An education can be defined as the training and shaping of the heart, soul, mind, and strength. An education consists not only in the learning of the facts and skills, but also in the developing of affections and worldview. Our worldview is how we see and judge our culture and he world around us. Anything which affects our worldview and affections-in fact, anything influences our hearts, souls, minds, or strength-is educational, whether for good or for evil.”

Textbooks are not the only way, and sometimes not the best way, to learn or be educated. Now, I still use textbooks; it would be hard to learn Algebra otherwise. But I believe the most important Book we could possibly use for education is the Bible. We need to base our life on God’s Word and we can’t do that unless we know what it says. I also enjoy reading God-honoring, thought-provoking, non-fiction books. I used to read fiction books almost exclusively but I have since learned the value of good, non-fiction books. Learning by actually doing is great, too. I learned how to write, read “how to write” books, learned correct grammar and spelling, etc. But it would all be no use to me in writing a book if I did not actually write the book! It is definitely a learning experience...yes, even the failed manuscripts :).

Here is a list of some good ways to be well educated:

1. Pray. Pray for the wisdom which comes only from the Lord. “For the Lord gives wisdom, and from His mouth come knowledge and understanding.” Proverbs 2:6 We do not want worldly wisdom.
2. Read the Bible, memorize portions of the Bible, meditate on the Bible, write about what you learn from the Bible, etc.
3. Read good, thought-provoking non-fiction books. A few excellent fiction books can be worthwhile, too.
4. Research/Dig deeper by using books, videos/DVDs, internet, CDs, magazines, interviewing experts, etc.
5. Learn by asking questions
6. Learn by watching/observing
7. Learn by doing/experimenting
8. Use textbooks

"Educating our children includes more than arithmetic and spelling; it includes building character. No educational pursuit can replace the deep need for a generation of children to be brought up first in the 'nurture and admonition' of the Lord." Rick Williamson

“In my view, the Christian religion is the most important and one of the first things in which all children, under a free government ought to be instructed.” Noah Webster
 
I recently finished a series of posts on my blog which I think complements this.  Here are the links: Part 1, Part 2, and Part 3.

The Most Important Lesson I Learned in School

'Tis the season for (home)school.  Therefore, I thought I would share a little something I wrote a year ago.  Don't expect eloquence...just sincerity.

The Most Important Lesson I Learned in School

I learned the most important lesson at home which is my school because I am homeschooled. I have learned many important lessons in my home. But the most, most, most important lesson I have ever learned or ever could learn is that God created everything and sent His Son, Jesus Christ to die so that I (and anyone else who believes in Him and receives Him into their heart) can be forgiven and can live forever in Heaven. Salvation through Jesus Christ is the best, most important lesson I have ever learned. Nothing compares to this! It influences every area of my life. Because of it, I want to do all for the glory of God and the furtherance of His kingdom. I want to obey God and reach the unreached with the Gospel. These desires affect how I spend my time, whom I spend time with, what I want to do with my life now and in the future, how I view relationships, what I write, and so much more. Some people would say, "You didn’t really learn that as a lesson in school. You were five years old!" If they define school as sitting at a desk, listening to a lecture, or reading a textbook, then no, I guess I didn’t learn the most important lesson in school. However, in my opinion, I have been educated since I was born. I am constantly learning and being educated-everyday and everywhere. In that sense, I did learn this most important lesson in school-because I learned it at home with my parents teaching me. I have learned many other great lessons which I would love to share with you but if I could only share one, I know which one it would be. It would be the most important lesson anyone could every share or learn. It would be the Gospel of Jesus Christ!

Educational Links: Online Spelling/Vocabulary/Word Games

Online Spelling/Vocabulary/Word Games:

- http://www.vocabulary.co.il/

- http://www.netrover.com/~kingskid/writing/Kids_Writing.html

- http://www.spellingcity.com/

- http://www.storyit.com/wgames/wgames.htm  

- http://www.manythings.org/cts/

- http://www.britishcouncil.org/kids-games-play-and-learn.htm

- http://www.kidsspell.com/

- http://www.agameaday.com/

- http://www.ozspeller.com/

- http://www.spinandspell.com/

- http://www.bigiqbee.com/

- http://games.aarp.org/categories/word.aspx

- http://word-games.pogo.com/?pageSection=free_home_category

Note: Children, please ask for your parents' permission before visiting these websites.  Parents, please check these out before letting your children go on them by themselves.  We have not visited these websites lately; their content and conditions may change.  Please use your discernment.

Christianity and Science Fiction–Review and Giveaway

Update: The winner is...Mrs. Angela England!



The winner has already been notified and the DVD has just been sent out!  Sorry that this update was late :).

Thank you, everyone, for entering!


Christianity and Science Fiction: Reclaiming the Genre for Christ is a Vision Forum DVD by Doug Phillips.
As an aspiring filmmaker, it is wonderful to hear about science fiction from a Biblical worldview. All films come from a worldview and I want mine to be completely Biblical. In the past, I did not think much of the science fiction genre. I did not watch many Sci-Fi films and did not really consider ever making one. I now have more interest in the genre and may, some day, make a Sci-Fi film in an effort to help “reclaim the genre for Christ” and because there are so many possibilities in the realm of science fiction. This DVD sheds a very interesting and important light, through a documented interview, on Star Wars and George Lucas. In addition, the information regarding Jules Verne and his predictions is fascinating. It talks about what science fiction films would look like coming from a Christian perspective and what they look like coming from an evolutionary perspective. It goes over the interesting history of science fiction. Power point slides and film clips help keep things entertaining throughout the DVD.  Ultimately, there are many questions that must be answered now and in the future. We, as Christians, are the ones who can answer them correctly.

I am giving away a brand new copy of this recently released DVD!  This DVD also includes two bonus audio CDs so you can listen to the same message in the car or elsewhere.

Here are the rules:
For an entry, leave a comment with your opinion of More than Conquerors magazine. Specifically, please tell us if you:

1. Definitely want us to continue the magazine
2. Might want us to continue the magazine
3. Don’t care either way.
4. Might want us to stop the magazine.
5. Definitely want us to stop the magazine.

For extra entires:
-Receive an extra entry for subscribing to the magazine. If you have already subscribed, please let me know in your comment.

-Receive an extra entry for following this magazine. Let us know who you are (which blog) in your comment.

-Receive an extra entry for posting about this giveaway on your blog. Leave the link to your post in your comment.

For each of the above things you do, you need to leave a separate comment.  Thank you!
This contest ends October 20th.

Who are we?

We are the Liljequist family. We are the regular contributors for this magazine.  You can reach us at: MTCmagazine@yahoo.com . 


Eric is the God-fearing man who is the head of our household. He loves the Lord and lives for Him. He truly loves all of us and works really hard to provide for us. Since he knows the Bible well, he is able to instruct his family in sound doctrine and refute wrong teaching. His memorization of Scripture and passion for evangelism is inspiring. He is a wonderful steward of the resources God has given him and has taught us the importance of not living for the pleasures of this life but of having an eternal perspective. His protection of us extends beyond the physical to include emotional and spiritual protection as well. He is a professional civil engineer by profession and a fisher of men by obedience and love.


Urailak (aka LivingforGod around the blogosphere and Fruit Bearer on Facebook) is the blessed wife of Eric and homeschool mother to three outstanding, God-loving kids. She is a born again Christ-follower saved by God’s grace through faith in Jesus Christ, unto good works (bearing good fruit). She wants to please and honor the Lord in everything she does and says. Living for God...abiding in Christ alone...living by the Book (Bible)...seeking God's will...resting in God's grace and mercy...serving the King of kings! Soli Deo Gloria! She regularly blogs at http://bornagainandblessed.blogspot.com/ . Her three other blogs include: http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/servingtheKingofkings/ , http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/childrenoflight/ , http://wondersbeyondwords.blogspot.com/ .


Alyssa is their only daughter and oldest child. She is a 16 year old homeschooling young lady who is so thankful that she is saved by God’s grace. She wants to live a life that's pleasing to God and glorifies Him.   She enjoys writing and if it's God's will, she would like to be a freelance writer and author. She also strongly desire to make films which honor God and further His kingdom. Some of her other interests include: reading, drawing, entrepreneurship, homemaking, and music (listening to music and playing the piano).  She hopes that God will use the abilities and skills that He has given her for His glory and to help others. She blogs at Life of Faith.

Our family is passionate about reaching the unreached with the Gospel and fulfilling the Great Commission.

“It has always been my ambition to preach the Gospel where Christ was not known” Romans 15:20a

“I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.” Galatians 2:20