September Celebration :: Giveaway Winners!

Greetings, Dear Royal Sisters! We are very excited to share with you the winners of our big September celebration giveaway fest!!

But before we announce the winners, we would like to give a big thanks to all the lovely shops who sponsored our giveaways and made it possible! Thank you all so much! May God bless you and your shops!

We would also like to thank all those entered in this big giveaway post! Your giveaway entries kept us smiling and happy and gave us a brighter day! :D

~*~

And now, after a prayer and a random.org drawing we have some winners! :D So here they are!

The winner of the rose ring {of the winner color choice} sponsored by Silver Lotus Designs is:

SEVEN SISTERS!!! of Seven Sisters Blog

Congratulations! If you would go HERE and choose the rose ring you would like and then contact us HERE with your first and last name as well as your mailing address, and email address, then we will get your ring to you ASAP! :D Please enjoy your prize!

The winner of the pair of earrings {of the winners choice!} from Cloud Nine Designz is:

MISS MEGHAN!!!

Congratulations! If you would go to her shop HERE and choose which pair of earrings you would like and then contact us HERE with the name of the earrings, your first and last name as well as your mailing address, and email address and we will get your earrings to you ASAP! :D Please enjoy your prize!

The winner of the clutch of the winners choice sponsored by Brighter Day is:

MISS HALEY!!! See profile here to make sure it's the right Haley since there were several that entered. :D

Congratulations! If you would go HERE and choose which clutch you would like and then email us HERE with the name of the clutch as well as your first and last name as well as your mailing address, and email address then we will get your clutch to you ASAP! :D Please enjoy your prize!

The winner of this lovely stationary sponsored by Writings by Bluebirds is:

MISS ALLI!!!

Congratulations! Please contact us through our contact page HERE with your first and last name as well as your mailing address, email address and we will get your stationary to you ASAP! :D Please enjoy your prize!

The winner of the devotional The Younger Women Also sponsored by Priceless Jewels Ministries is: MISS CHRISTA MORIAH!!!

Congratulations! Please contact us through our contact page HERE with your first and last name as well as your mailing address, email address and we will get your devotional to you ASAP! :D Please enjoy your prize!

The winner of the one year subscription to For Such A Time As This Magazine sponsored by For Such A Time As This Press is:

MISS EMILY RUTH!!!

Congratulations! Please contact us through our contact page HERE with your first and last name as well as your mailing address, email address and we will get your magazine subscription to you ASAP! :D Please enjoy your prize!

And last but not least, the winner of the lovely tea cup candle sponsored by Roses and Teacups is:

MISS HAYDEN!!!

Congratulations! Please contact us through our contact page HERE with your first and last name as well as your mailing address, email address and we will get your candle to you ASAP! :D Please enjoy your prize!

~*~

And for those who did not win, be sure and keep your eye open for our October giveaway which will be posted the first Wednesday in October! We also would encourage you to check out our Monthly Program, as our new October program is up!

May the Lord bless you all!

Blessings,

Bethany Ann & Johanna Rose

Royal Council :: Friendship

Most girls today are very lax about who they allow to be close friends in their lives and those whom they allow to influence them. It's hard to know what kinds of people are true godly influences and those that aren't, and how do you know the difference? In this Royal Council post we would like to share with you things that have been on our heart about choosing our friends wisely. May it be a blessing to you as well as an encouragement as you live for the Lord!
~Bethany Ann & Johanna Rose~

{Due to Internet problems, Miss Johanna was not able to write a response for this months Royal Council but plans on being back very soon! In the mean time I have some guest responces that were originaly published in my former magazine Hearts for God so please enjoy those! ~Bethany}

Miss Bethany Ann ::

Lately I've been learning a lot on the true meaning of the importance of wisely choosing friends and companions. I always knew it was important, but once I saw the effects first-hand I realized just how important this subject is and how lightly it is glossed over now days. Michelle Duggar once said that her Grandma Duggar always told her this wise saying "Show me your friends, and I'll show you your future". {Proverbs 12:26} It's true! Who we spend time with is what we will become. And if our main goal is to know the Lord as our number one best friend then this should be true. We can tell if it is true by how we act, because if we truly want to be like Jesus then we will spend time with Him and thus be like Him in our maners.

The Bible, especially the book of Proverbs has a lot to say about friendships and how they should be, as well as much on the greatest example of a good friend, Jesus! When thinking on the subject of friendships I believe that we first must realize and state that our number one best friend EVER should be the Lord. For He will never leave us and has proven His love for us by giving His own life for us on the cross. Now that is what only a  best friend would do! John 15:13 tells us that "Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends."

But how do we know if this person is the right kind of friend or not? Sometimes its hard to determine that so I'd suggest asking your parents for their advice. Here are some questions to ask yourself about that friend to see if she is the right kind that will encourage you in your walk with Christ like all good friends!

• Does this friend encourage me in my walk with the Lord?
• Does this friend encourage me to keep secrets that aren't good? Does she keep good secrets? {Proverbs 11:13}
• Does this friend regularly read her Bible, pray and memorize Scripture?
• Does this friend gossip?
• Does this friend use only good words to edify others or does she use filthy language?
• Does this girl truly love the Lord? Could you tell by her everyday actions?
• Does this friend encourage me to go against my parents will and do wrong things?
• Is my friend always there for me when I need her? {Proverbs 17:17}
• Does my friend try to encourage others in everything she does to glorify the Lord?
• How doesn my friend respond to tough situations? {Proverbs 22:24-25}

This is also a good list of things to do as well as not to do in order to be a good friend! {Proverbs 27:17} Sometimes I'm so caught up in finding a good friend that I forget to be one myself! Its helpful to think of traits that I'd like in a friend and then apply them to my own life in order to be a good friend. Always remember to look to the Lord for a perfect emaple of a great friend!

Are you currently seeking a good friend and feeling left out since you don't have one? Then look to the Lord! He so dearly wants to be your closest friend and should be! "There is a firend that sticks closer than a brother." ~Proverbs 18:24 Look to Jesus and spend time with Him for He loves you!

So now towards the subject of being a good friend, how are we able to do this? I've often failed at being a true godly friend and have made mistakes like all people have. But the great thing is that a true friend will always forgive you when this happens and will encourage you to do what it right! The best kind of friend is one that is an encourager so here are some ideas on ways to be a great friend and be an encourager:

• Send your friend a little gift every now and then reminding her that you are thinking about her!
• Pray for your friend regulary. Ask for any specific prayer requests to make it personal.
• Encourage your friend with Bible verses at the enof letters email, etc with appropriate verses that go with their current situation in life.
• Always be there for your friend and let her know that if she ever needs anything to just ask!

Next month I plan on writing an article on encouraging pen-pals in detail so be looking for that!

May God bless you as you choose godly friends, make godly friends and be a godly friend!
Blessings,

Bethany Ann

A true friend shares freely, advises justly, assists readily, adventures boldly, takes all things  patiently, defends courageously, and continues a friend unchangeably. ~William Penn

Miss Madilyn Gail ::

Friendship is a very beautiful thing; the love of a friend is very special. I don’t even know where to start. I have so many friends, and even though I have known some longer than others, I can’t choose a favorite, and I shouldn’t need to. God puts every friend on our lives for a reason, not so we can choose one alone. When God sent the animals into the ark, he did it two by two, we are not meant to live life alone. Your best friend should always be the Lord. God wants you to put him first in your life. “A friend loves at all times.”  Any true friend will always stand by you, and if you are a true friend, you will do the same. “A despairing man should have the devotion of his friends.”  The Bible says to stand up for what’s right, stand up for your friends, help them through their struggle’s with the help of our Heavenly Father. If your friends see your loyalty, then they will put more of their trust into you. So go out there and help somebody, I challenge you, today, to do something nice for someone else. Many people talk of doing good, but then they never do it, like my friend says, live out loud!!! :D

- Madi

 {Originaly published in Bethany's former magazine Hearts for God in the Friendship issue}

 Miss Mary ::

Why is it such a big deal who we hang out with? You may wonder when your parents or some one you know tells you to be careful who you are with. Well, sisters, let me tell you that this is an important issue! It has been on my heart lately, as I have been learning more and more about how important it is that we are with the right group of friends!

First I want to say one thing: if we want good friends, we should first of all try to be good friends ourselves! Remember, we are princesses’, daughters of the King! Isn’t it exciting to think that God if our Father?! But it also means that people are watching our every action. As girls, we love to talk with our friends - but are the words we say edifying others, or bringing them down? Now I want to share with you something that has happened in my own life. I know a lot of unbelievers, and while they are sweet, kind people, I know that they are not the people I can be close friends with. Our friend’s influence who we become and we do not want to fallow in the worlds footsteps!

I was talking to these girls, who were not Christians, and I found that their conversations were not edifying to well - anyone. One girl complained about her parents, two other girls were gossiping about a girl at their school, and the other two were talking about a girl who had disobeyed her parents and started dating.

In contrast, a few days later at church I thought again about the conversation among the unbelievers as I listened to the other girls’ talking. We talked about God, we encouraged one another, and we talked over possible ministry opportunities, as well as having a lot of fun!

Which would you rather be? The people we are with share our thoughts, words, and actions. Would you rather be a gossip or encourager? Would you rather be with people who build you up and challenge you to grow closer to God, or be with people who are continually tearing others down?

Someone because you believe that it is not God’s will, it will always be better in the end!

I like to put it this way: the results will be bitter sweet. Maybe we will be lonely for a time, but God is always with us, and loneliness helps us grow closer to God. When we follow, we know he has a special reward for us in store. Thus, the bitter will not be wholly bitter - but the sweet will he wholly sweet!

~Mary

{Originaly published in Bethany's former magazine Hearts for God in the Friendship issue}

Miss Abigial ::Greetings everyone in the name of our Lord Jesus! I am going to write about friendship in this brief article and I hope it’ll be a blessing to all who read it.

Friendship - how cherished that word is! How we all long for true godly friends that will be with you in any situation or will help you with any need you have. It could be a phone call to ask for a loan or just a call to say hello just to let that friend know how much you care of them. Or it could be a short note to encourage your friend with Scriptures or a note to say you’re praying and thinking of them. There are so many things I’m thankful for with my friends. I have “met” many people who wish to be my friends but to say it honestly and as kindly as I can, they did not have the loyalty to be a true friend to me. I believe I am a loyal friend and I try to help my friends in any way I can when they are in need, whether it’s physical or spiritual. A friend to me is someone who is there when you need to talk and tell them all your problems and in return you listen to them as well. My friends are Christians which is such a blessing as well. I have received much spiritual encouragement from my friends which I have needed in times past.

All I wish to say is - be a loyal friend. If you can’t be a loyal friend then don’t try to be a friend at all. Loyal friends want loyal friends in return - not wishy-washy friends who are never there when they are in need. Our Lord is faithful to us, so let us follow His example in our lives and be faithful to our family and friends, not just sometimes, but always.

Lord, I do thank you for the few loyal godly friends I do have and I pray you’ll bless them. Please help other people that want to be loyal to their friends as well. In Jesus’ name, amen.

God bless everyone & remember to be faithful to your friends always!

A friend loveth at all times…Proverbs 17:17

Love in Jesus,

Abigail

{Originaly published in Bethany's former magazine Hearts for God in the Friendship issue}

Miss Havilah Worden ::

Most of us know people that we consider friends – but how many of them are true friends? Do you have a friend that “sticks closer than a brother” (see Proverbs 18:24b)? Are you that kind of friend to others?

Friendship is a gift and a responsibility. It is something we have to work on, and something we are able to reap from. Oswald Chambers wrote, “Friendship... means identity in thought and heart and spirit.”

True friendship is not an emotion, preference, or feeling. It is giving of oneself to another person. Friendship, in essence, is love.

God, as the Creator and Giver of friendship, set the perfect example of true friendship. In the Old Testament, it is said that God spoke to Moses as a man speaks to his friend. Moses is called the friend of God. (See Exodus 33:11.) God was like a Counselor or Confidante for Moses. He supported Moses and stood beside him. At times the children of Israel were angry with Moses, and several times they wanted to kill him. Even Moses’ own brother Aaron didn’t always support him. But God was always there for him, always standing by him, always encouraging him.

Through His relationship with Moses, God gave us an example of true friendship. And more importantly, He illustrated the personal relationship that He desires to have with us.

Usually when we think of friendship, we think of love. This makes perfect sense because true friendship cannot exist apart from love. But what exactly is love?

In his best-selling book My Utmost For His Highest, Oswald Chambers wrote, “Love is the outpouring of one personality in fellowship with another personality.” This means spending time with those you love, but especially getting to know them and letting yourself be known to them. Nearly everyone has different sides or aspects to their personality. Your true friends will know your “other side”, and you will know theirs.

Fellowship is important, but true love and friendship go deeper. Jesus said in John 15:13, “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” Jesus demonstrated this love by giving His life on the cross. Now that’s true friendship! Just as Jesus selflessly laid down his life for His friends, a true friend will be willing to give her time, talents, abilities, possessions, dreams, and even her life for her friend. As Christians, we have that kind of Friend in Jesus. Are we willing to be that kind of friend to others?

In 1 Corinthians 13, Paul defines and describes true love. This passage also seems to describe a true friend.

“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.... And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the 23 greatest of these is love.” – 1 Corinthians 13:4-8, 13.

{Originaly published in Bethany's former magazine Hearts for God in the Friendship issue}

The Importance of Limiting Computer Time

{Written by Bethany Ann}

What has the Lord been teaching me lately? It can all be summed up in 3 simple words: limiting computer time. You might think this an odd subject for an article, and I did too at first but when I started to think of it, limiting computer time can be very important in a Christian girl’s life!

Lately I've been spending a lot of time on the computer. My Mom has always told me of the importance of limiting screen time, but I never truly realized the desperate importance of it until a few days back.

My computer time is limited to one hour a day. This is the necessary time to work on RDOTK things as well as manage and keep up my two other blogs {our family blog HERE and my new giveaway blog HERE}. But I found myself often going to my blog list of updates before the articles I was supposed to write. I seemed to enter all the giveaways before I did that product review post. And though I'm not saying that giveaways and following blogs on wrong, I am saying that there needs to be a set balance-and if you don't set that balance it will set you!

I soon realized many things that changed when I was on the computer, one of which is that when you are on the compeer, it's like you in your own little "bubble" as my Mom calls it. Basically, you shut yourself down to other humans and focus on only yourself. I found that when I can on the computer, whenever a sibling came asking how to spell a word I was not as eager to answer and sometimes ignored them without knowing it since I was so caught up in getting that giveaway entry up that I "blocked" them out. Although, this isn't always a bad thing, {for when writing an article I must be able to concentrate :D} but we must be careful not to let it get a firm hold of us. So many times I found myself more irritable when I was in front of the screen than when I wasn't on the computer. I wondered why and realized that when I'm in front of the computer, I can do anything I want {within reason of course}. If I want to enter a giveaway, I can. If I want to read a blog, it’s only a click away. So I'm used to getting what I wanted. So when I had little siblings playing nosily in the background it irritated me and frustrated me because I wasn't getting what I wanted.

Please understand that I am not saying that computers are bad, because they are wonderful resources given to us and with them we can do a lot of good-but also a lot of harm.   But like with all things there must be moderation. And I believe that America has gone over that boundary-by a lot!

I remember once going to a restaurant with my family, and as we sat down to dinner I noticed that there was a family sitting a few tables away. I instantly recognized that both parents were on their i-phones and that the other family member was eating alone. They hardly said anything the whole time they ate and were constantly glued to the screen. I thought later how sad this is that families can't even eat together because they do not have enough self-control to set the phone down during family events.

Think about this: I calculated that if I have an hour of computer time every day then that totals to 365 hours a year. This equals to 15 whole days a year! In 60 years that adds up to 900 days! This is time you could have spent reading, spending time with family or with the Lord - but no we chose to spend it in solitude and to zone yourself out of the real world for a time. So often I find myself saying "Oh it'll only be a minute, I just need to check my email" but it ends up being so much more time since there is that email that I won a giveaway and then I have to go to their blog to give them my information and then they say to go enter this other giveaway...see were I'm going? I once had someone tell me that once they got on the computer after they put their kids to bed, and all the sudden they noticed that the sun was coming up! They had spent the whole night on the computer and didn't even realize it!

There have been times were I have gotten on the computer before doing my devotions. This is wrong! When I do this I am setting the computer as an idol because it is more important to me than spending time with God - because I value it more than the Lord. This is sad! I have since them purposed to never get on the computer before I do my devotions as a way of showing the Lord that I value it more than anything on the computer.

So dear Daughter of the King, are you feeling like the Lord is nudging at your heart and telling you to spend less time on the computer and more time with Him? Sometimes it's hard and required to stop following so many blogs, not enter as many giveaways, do less blog posts, get away from the Facebook page, and chose to do the important things first. I would like to challenge each of you to spend less time on the computer this week. Please do it for the Lord and for your family. Use that time to memorize Scripture, read a good book or spend time with your family. Right now chose the amount of time you will allow yourself to spend on the computer each day and pray that the Lord would help you to keep that resolution for one week. At first it may sound horrid and impossible, but remember that with the Lord all things ARE possible! :D Plus, wouldn't you rather that at the end of your life that instead of a total of 900 days spent on the computer it only be more like 100 days and that the other 800 were spent doing something productive such as spending time with the Lord and doing something of eternal value? For when we see Jesus on Judgment day the amount of days spent on the computer will mean nothing to Him - what He is interested in is how much time we spent getting to know Him better.

Have God bless you dear sisters!

Blessings,

Bethany Ann

{P.S. For those of you who haven't yet heard, I just opened a giveaway blog called Giveaways of Blessing! I plan on posting frequent giveaways and product reviews and currently I have two giveaways going on! One for some lovely tea-time cards and one for a lovely sewing e-pattern for a adorable purse of the winners choice. Check those out over HERE! ~Bethany}

Craft Tutorials :: Purses

Greetings dear daughters of the King!

Today I have complied a list of several neat purse tutorials that I have found and hope will be useful to you! Please note that I do not claim to necessarily agree with everything on these links as I have not had time to search each of them all the way through. So as always, please use cation when going to a new site. To view the tutorial of that project then please click on the link below the picture.

Please enjoy the tutorials! If you have a craft tutorial subject that you would like to see, then please let us know!

Also I would like to share with you that I now have a giveaway blog were I post giveaways and product reviews for Christian young ladies called Giveaways of Blessing! Please visit it HERE! Currently I have a giveaway for some lovely tea-time cards {The same as those we gave away a few months back here at RDOTK sponsored by ScriptureDesigns.com} going until the 30th of September, so go enter if you are interested!

Blessings,

Bethany Ann

Hand Towel Bag with Corsage

Reversible Bag

Simple Reversible Totebag

Totebag



Wallet Tutorial {I know this isn't a purse tutorial, but I thought I'd drop it in here just in case anyone is interested. :D}



Purse Tutorial

Quilted Friendship Tote Tutorial



Diana Hobo Tote Pattern

Ruffled Tote

Ruffles Handbag

Springy Tote

T-Shirt Purse

Cute Purse/Matching Wallet Tutorial

Book Reviews

Sanctuary

By David & Beverly Lewis

{Review By Bethany Ann}

      Sanctuary was a very good read, much better than I expected! I had tried to read a few of Mrs. Lewis' books before but due to content was unable to finish it. So when I read this book all the way through and enjoyed it then I knew it was good! :D

     Sanctuary is a story about Melissa James and her husband of 3 years, Ryan. Everything is picture perfect for Melissa, she has a great husband, big house, lots of money, and what else could she need?

     But one day Melissa's life is turned upside down when she spots a familiar looking man at the local restaurant.  Melissa fears that he is tracking her down due to her deceased fathers past. When she mysteriously disappears from home  her husband Ryan gets worried.

     When Melissa seeks a refuge and a sanctuary in a Amish community she finds a home owned by a older Mennonite woman who has a room for rent. Melissa jumps at the low price and friendly service. While Melissa is there the home owner shares Christianity to her and her heart slowly softens toward the Lord. But why would He allow this to happen? She didn't want to leave her husband, home and the only life she ever knew. Why would God do this? After a few days of saftey at the sanctuary she gets a call from the FBI, now things get really shaky and she must put her trust in the Lord that He will work it all out. Will Melissa ever return home? Do Melissa and Ryan get saved from their sins? Will everything be normal again? Find out in this mysteriously interesting, suspensful, wholesome read!

Daughters of Destiny

Complied & Edited by Noelle Wheeler

{Review By Bethany Ann}

     In Daughters of Destiny you will read about many of the great women of the past. Divided into categories including Daughters of Virtue, Daughters of Home, Daughters of Strength, Daughters of Service, Daughters of Royalty, Daughters of Stature, Daughters of Liberty, Daughters of Lyrics, Daughters of Purpose and Daughters of Vision. It will be sure to inspire you through the true stories of past women's faith and trust in the Lord as well as their strength, virtue and faith. Some of the women you will learn about include: Mary Slessor, Queen Margaret, Lady Jane Grey, Catherine von Bora, Susanna Wesley, Mary Washington, Dolly Madison, Betsy Ross, Clara Bartan, Sarah F. Adams, Francis Jane Crosby, Mary Jones, and many more!

     This book was very interesting and was not at all boring like most history-filled books! :D The stories of these women that I read, I never knew even happened and was surprised to find that their WERE God-fearing women in the past, even though present day history textbooks refuse to say so. It was encouraging to read such things! It was very interesting and also inspiring. You could even use this as a history book for your homeschool or for unit studies! It is a must read!

Arrayed in Glory

{Written by Johanna Rose}

When I was a little girl, I was given a gift. It was so very beautiful -- more beautiful then anything I had ever known; for it was a palm-sized precious stone, of great worth. And, it was truly magnificent. It was given to me on the day I was born, and from that day on, it served as my constant companion. Even though I didn't understand the worth of such an object then, I always loved and treasured it. As the years passed, the precious ruby became more and more beautiful to me, and thus more and more invaluable. As time drew on, I was certain that there could be nothing out there that would surpass the glory of this ruby-red stone. 

Soon, it was such a huge part of my life that it became my life. 

Nothing could hinder me from looking daily unto its beauty. One afternoon, the idea came to me that I might set it in the window -- that its radiance might shine all the more. Thus, I walked over to the window seat, which stood a little distance from me, and I set it in the center of the velvety cushion therein. And, it did shine with a new beauty. As the sun rose in the morning, I watched as it lit up slightly, with a subtle glow. Every time I passed my window, I glanced longingly at my ruby -- and each time I did this, I felt something inside of me. Some sort of longing. I felt as if I needed to hold the ruby, and caress it -- but even then, when I could feel it within my palm, I still felt something deep, down within my heart. Something that I didn't altogether understand, and often succeeded in suppressing.

One afternoon, an invitation came to my doorstep. I had been invited to a gathering held at the home of my dearest friend. I found myself full of alacrity -- for already the thought of showing off my ruby had grown within my heart, and had filled my every thought. 

I hastened to my dressing room, and found a gown which I found perfect for the occasion. It was a bright, shimmering green, which rustled with every movement. The bodice front was arrayed in hundreds of small, shiny diamond-like stones; and the skirt hugged my form in a attractive manner. I considered, with a happy sigh, that I would gather much attention from such dazzling attire. I smiled. My eyes wandered reluctantly from my closet mirror, to my nightstand, where there stood a small clock. My smile faded quickly, as I found I was already a few moments late....

Before long, I arrived. I was right. I did draw the eyes of those around me, I looked back at them with an air of superiority, and advanced into the room. I looked around, and soon my eyes met those of my dearest friend. However, as I looked to her dress, I couldn't believe what I saw. It was so simple -- and not showy at all. It was a pure white, full, floor-length dress -- the bodice was simple, with a higher, and more rounded neckline then my own. And opposed to my sleeveless top, her sleeves were, again, full -- and graced her arms with a feminine charm. Her brunet curls fell down all around her sweet face -- and were pinned with a simple jeweled tiara. And what a beautiful tiara it was, for it held a glow about it that I could not explain at the time. Deep within my heart, I was envious of her -- for she seemed so -- different -- and innocent. I felt as if I was outdone again. I felt as if, once again, I was secondary. At this, I wanted to burst forth with a rush of tears. But instead, I forced a smile to conceal my pain. That is when I remembered the ruby, which was hidden within my purse; for no matter how beautiful the others might me, I would still surpass them all with my treasured ruby.

Soon, my opportunity came. The company had all gone, and it was just I and Crystal -- for that was my dearest friend's name. I pulled it from my purse, and held it before her eyes. It seemed even more beautiful then what I had remembered. With a smile I said "I have been longing to share with you my prized possession, my dear." I said these words with an air of sweetness, but inside I wanted more then anything to make her envious of me. I continued, "This of course is of great worth -- so I won't permit you to touch it, but you are welcome to look at it." With this, I laid it in front of her on the table -- hoping to see some sort of longing in her eyes.

But instead, as I tore my eyes away from the beauteous ruby, I met the gaze of my dear friend. Tear's streamed down her cheeks. However, they were not tears of longing, or want -- nor were they tears of desperation or misery. They were tears of pity. They were tears shed for me. Crystal reached out her hand, and took mine in hers, and whispered slowly, "You are my dearest friend. I can't bear to see you like this -- I want to show you something. Will you permit me to take you to see my most valuable possession?" My mouth opened to speak, but words could not be found. I choked down a sob of my own, and nodded silently. With my precious ruby -- my entire life -- still fastened in my hand, she led me down the hall until we reached a room.

Just before pushing the door open she said simply, "Close your eyes." I did, but as I did, I held my ruby even tighter within my grasp. I was led in. Even with my eyes closed, I sensed a strong light just in front of me. At last, I heard her say gently, "Open."

Before me lay an object which had such beauty exceeded anything I had ever seen -- anything I had imagined -- anything I had ever even hoped of there being. It was a pure white, glistening diamond -- which, although the room was not lit -- contained a light that illuminated with  a radiance beyond what words can describe. It held such a purity -- such a radiance -- words can not even describe the beauty that lay before me at that moment. It is too inexplicable -- I haven't the skill to portray such a jewel....

My own precious ruby -- which at one time had filled my life with such pride, and was considered the most beautiful of all possessions -- fell to the ground, and shattered into dozens of pieces. The sound rung in my ears -- it was if my entire life -- my heart -- had cracked with it, and lay broken in a trillion pieces -- never to be mended.  Tears welled up in my eyes, and the sobs of pain that had been suppressed my entire life were to be suppressed no longer. Pain and sorrow flowed from my broken heart. I realized how worthless I was, when compared with such beauty and purity as this. {2 Corinthians 3:10-11} Furthermore, I saw how hopeless it would be to even try -- for I felt past the point of reconciliation. I fell on my knees, and cried out to God in a trembling voice, "O wretched sinner that I am! Who will save me from this life of sorrow and pain?" {Romans 7:24-25}

It was then, that I heard the voice of Crystal once more, "This jewel is a gift from my Heavenly Father. It is a gift that is given freely -- to anyone who asks, it shall be theirs." Too this, I only shook my head in grief. I wiped away the tears that rolled down my face, and exclaimed "How could one such as I be permitted to even touch something so glorious as this? I am undeserving. I am nothing. I will never be able to obtain a something so glorious -- so radiant and pure."

Crystal moved towards me, arrayed in her pure white gown, she shined with the same light which filled that of the diamond. In her hands, she carried a tiara. It was small, and delicate, yet more beautiful then any adornment I had ever procured. She held it out to me and whispered, "This is your gift -- created from this very jewel. Won't you except it? Will you give up the life which was yours, and be transformed into a Princess of Light?"

I breathed in, and found it hard to speak. However, when I found my voice, I could not help but ask "How can it be that a sinner, such as I, can where something so glorious?" I sobbed, and bent over with my hands to my face.

Crystal spoke once again, with a tone in her voice that held a kindness and joy which I had never experienced, "None of us are worthy -- neither you, or I can obtain this gift." She paused here, and I felt her hand on my shoulder. "But, there is someone who has made intervention for us." I lifted up my face, with a visage that held question and doubt. For surely, this could not be true. But Crystal continued, "He loved you and I so very much that He died for you, that you might live in joy and peace. He loves you more then you can even imagine, and this crown is a gift from Him. A symbol that you are His own." I was given over to speechlessness. How could it be that such love was shown to me? How could it be that such grace, should come to my aid. Could it be true that such beauty could be revealed within someone such as I. More tears came. But, rather then tears of sorrow, they were tears of joy -- and peace. For I realized that I had been bought at a price, in order that I may live for my redeemer. {1 Corinthians 6:20}

"Will you accept His gift?" 

My lip quivered, as I silently nodded.

Crystal knelt beside me, and place the crown upon my head, with the words "You are a Daughter of the King -- now -- and forever." As she place the crown upon my head, I noticed that I too was now clothed in a pure white -- woven with gold, and was arrayed in radiance. {Psalm 45:13} And for the first time in my life, I felt a unsurpassed joy bloom in my heart. And for the first time in my life, I felt at peace. I felt a purpose. I felt Jesus.

Therefore, 

Looking unto Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith,

Who, for the joy that was set before Him, 

ENDURED THE CROSS.

Hebrews 12:2

Beautiful Inspiration

{Hello Daughters of the King! This will be a post with random things that we hopefully inspire you! Today we have several music videos for you that we hope you will enjoy. May you be blessed by it! (Please excuse the 15 second advertisements at the beginning of the videos, as we were not able to remove them)~Bethany Ann & Johanna Rose}

Monthly Interview :: Miss Elizabeth



{Miss Elizabeth & her family}

ROYAL DAUGHTERS OF THE KING: Can you tell us a little bit about yourself? How did you come to know Jesus?

MISS ELIZABETH: Hello! It is such a blessing and privilege to be able to share with you, sisters in Christ. I feel very honored to be asked to answer the questions and humbly hope that you will be encouraged by some of it, by God’s grace.

I am a fourteen year old young lady, who loves the Lord with her heart. I am homeschooled and really love being able to spend more time with my family. My three younger brothers are such a blessing to me and although when I was younger I wanted a sister, the Lord knew I needed brothers and I am also blessed by some sweet sisters in Jesus.

A few of my many interests include: spending time with my brothers and sisters in Christ, capturing some of the blessings the Lord has given me through the camera, reading, writing (letters, articles, journaling), posting on my blog/website {View HERE!}, creating handmade projects (sewing, card-making, etc), organizing, encouraging young ladies through planning of modest clothing exchanges, teas, etc, helping grandparents, cooking and other homemaking adventures, playing and learning piano (and some flute and guitar), playing outdoors in God’s Creation and the list continues. I am thankful for the pleasantly full life the Lord has given me!

The Lord has taught me so much on my journey and continues to teach me new things each and every day. His faithfulness is so amazing and I am so thankful for it! Although I do not remember all of the details, on my great grandpa’s 80th birthday I was thinking a lot about the topic of death and asked my parents a lot of questions. I prayed to the Lord and wrote the date in my Bible. Later, in 2009, I re-committed my life to Christ and was assured of my salvation. I remember that time much more clearly and am so thankful that Jesus died on the cross for me and saved me of my sin. What an amazing Savior we have! For around a year I had been thinking, praying and reading in His Word about the topic of baptism and was baptized earlier this year by my daddy. It was a wonderful experience and my journey with the Lord gets sweeter each day!

ROYAL DAUGHTERS OF THE KING: How are some of the ways you remain joyful in your Savior?

MISS ELIZABETH: My favorite way to remain joyful in my Savior is to seek Him. Praying to Him to give me joy and strength can refresh me. Recently I was trying to get to sleep, thoughts swirling through my mind of difficult situations in life, and I started reviewing memory verses in my mind. I realized again that the Lord will always remain faithful and He is in control. And though the Lord cares about my little difficult situations, He has suffered so much for me…I should delight in suffering for Jesus and remain joyful in that! James 1:2-3 really is convicting: “My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.” Wow! Counting it joy when we have struggles because it works patience in us! It can be difficult, but as the Lord promises in Neh. 8:10b, “The joy of the Lord is your strength.” I also am uplifted when reading His Word. And, as I mentioned briefly above, storing away God’s Word in my heart can be helpful when I am struggling. Focusing on the blessings the Lord has given me, journaling and writing letters to the Lord also helps me stay more joyful. To close this section, I’d like to share a quote from Mrs. Susannah Spurgeon, the wife of the preacher Charles Spurgeon. She had many trials in her life, but still pressed on to glorify the Lord with her life. “…the moment we come into any trial or difficulty, our first thought should be, not how soon can we escape from it, or how we may lessen the pain we shall suffer from it, but how can we best glorify God in it…” –Susannah Spurgeon.



{Miss Elizabeth playing the piano}


ROYAL DAUGHTERS OF THE KING: What are some of your favorite books, and why?

MISS ELIZABETH: I have been blessed to read many encouraging titles:

• The most encouraging and my favorite Book of all is God’s Word. It never fails to give me encouragement. Make time each day to read it and it will keep you refreshed.

• “Before You Meet Prince Charming” by Sarah Mally {Available from Bright Lights HERE} If you have not read this one, please do. Sarah shares some beautiful wisdom on preparing for a Godly marriage, if it is the Lord’s will, and practical advice for waiting on the Lord’s timing.

• “Joyfully at Home” by Jasmine Baucham. {Available from Vision Forum HERE!} Filled with Jasmine’s inspiring thoughts makes you excited to serve your family, the Lord, and to seek the Lord’s will for your life. She shares Biblical, yet practical insights. I was so blessed by this one!

• “The Basket of Flowers” by Christoph Von Schmid {Available from Lamplighter Publishing HERE!} A dear family at our church let me borrow this classic and I absolutely loved it. It is a beautiful, charming story from the 1800s of a sweet girl and the journey of her life and the lessons she learns.

• The Elsie Dinsmore & Millie Keith series by Martha Finley. {Although some are out of print, the original Elsie books are available at Vision Forum HERE!} I am currently reading through the original Elsie series and they have blessed me. I have read the revised version of the Millie Keith series and Millie’s heart for the Lord is so inspiring.

• “Preparing to be a Help Meet” by Debi Pearl {Available from No Greater Joy HERE!} is one of my current favorites. It gives vision and practical advice from a Titus 2 woman. I have enjoyed discussing chapters of the book with my mom and this one is great as a mother-daughter study. Ask your mom about this one and if you are younger, you may want her to read it first.

• “The Family Daughter” By Sarah Lee Bryant {Available from The King's Blooming Rose Ministries HERE!} This recently-published book by a daughter at home has lots of wisdom!

• “One Thing You Can’t Do in Heaven” by Mark Cahill {Available at Mark Cahill.org HERE!}was a book I read a few days ago and I absolutely loved it! It is so inspiring and Mr. Cahill shares much wisdom and practical tips. If you want to get excited about sharing with others about the Lord, read this book. You won’t want to put it down…my mom was blessed by it, so I decided to read it and I finished it in about two days and loved it.

There are many, many more, but those are some of my favorites. =) A helpful list from a website for mothers & daughters can be found HERE at Raising Homemakers.com. I have not read them all, but many of them have been encouraging! Of course, be sure to check with your parents before reading new titles. Each family has their own standards. Seek the Lord on what books to read and ask Him to show you ones that are pleasing to Him.


 ROYAL DAUGHTERS OF THE KING: What are some of your guidelines when it comes to dressing modestly?

MISS ELIZABETH: Although inner beauty is more important, we want to make sure we glorify God in all we do and are not a distraction to our brothers in Christ. We want others to be attracted to our joyfulness and faith in Christ, not our outward appearance. Most importantly in this area, we want others to see Jesus and be pointed to Him instead of us. (John 3:30 says, “He must increase, but I must decrease.”) These are some ideas that I have found helpful for me, but ask your parents and pray to the Lord for guidance in this area. You can also ask your brothers for their thoughts, what outfits they prefer, etc, to add another perspective.

Another thing to consider is thinking about how we can dress in a feminine way. (Deut. 22:5) In an article by Raquelle Sheen, she says, “True femininity is more than ruffles and froo-froo—it means being happy that God made you a woman and rejoicing in it, not going out and trying to be just like the guys. It means searching the Scriptures to see what God wants women to do—and then obeying it.” (1)

The last thing I want to add in this section is we can consider if the fabrics/colors of our attire are too distracting or drawing attention to ourselves. These are all things I am learning and working on and I hope you will delight that the Lord made you a daughter of the King, because it is a blessing! Psalm 45:11 says, “So shall the king greatly desire thy beauty: for he is thy Lord; and worship thou him.”

For tops: Tops can be tricky! Look for simple, comfortable, not clingy tops that are not too low-cut. You can also layer another top under if the top is too low. A white cardigan is helpful and jean jackets can also be cute. Try looking at a Goodwill or similar store for a nice selection of more budget-friendly tops. Plus, perhaps you can find some more modest attire, since modesty isn’t always in style. :) A fun, easy project can be to sew little fabric flowers out of a material that matches your skirt/capris and then pin it to your blouse.

For skirts: Below the knee works best for me, to make sure I am covered and my skirt does not fly up on windy days. Skirts can be difficult to find, so you have to be creative at times! One helpful idea is to find a shorter sundress in a cotton or other material {often on sale at end of summer!} and sew the top down to make a waistband for a skirt! The shorter dress turns into a longer skirt. Many of my skirts are sewn this way. Other ideas are: sewing your own skirts, if you enjoy doing that or would like to learn. For a link to a free pattern for an easy, pretty skirt click HERE! (I made this one in a green, yellow and white daisy print.)

For dresses: I’ve sewn some with the help of my mom. Simplicity 5645, view A is a dress I sewed with her. It has a lovely flared style and mine is a lovely light blue with white flower trim (and no complicated zipper to sew!). A nice shorter white cardigan can be nice to layer over a dress on cool days to cover up a bit more and is a nice classic piece to have.

For capris: Capris can be nice to wear. Colors like khaki, denim and white go with a lot of tops and blouses. I recently found a pair of nice khaki ones on sale, since it’s the end of summer.

A wonderful blessing from the Lord has been a “modest clothing exchange” that I organized for young ladies to “trade” for free modest items. It is such a fun time. (If you’d like, you can see photos on my blog HERE!)

ROYAL DAUGHTERS OF THE KING: How do you stay focused while spending time with the Lord? (How do you overcome those worldly distractions such as the computer, phone calls, other reading materials, etc…)

MISS ELIZABETH: This is a good question-it can be hard to stay focused completely on the Lord when many other worldly distractions appear. Some may even be good, wholesome things, but if they are pulling you away from focusing on the Lord, they are a distraction. This summer I took a “summer pursuit” of spending time with the Lord at least 15 minutes each day, which was a good challenge for me. Sometimes, especially during the summer months, it can be difficult to sit down with no distractions for a while. But it is so worth it to do so!

One idea is to do it first thing when you get up in the morning. Although it isn’t always possible, try to at least start the day with a Psalm or shorter portion of Scripture and pray to the Lord. Start your day on the right note. You could also do it at the end of the day, but I find that I get rather sleepy at that time. Find a time of day that works for you. Maybe it is after you finish your homeschooling work in the afternoon or outdoors later in the day. But I would encourage you to start and end your day by reading His Word and giving thanks to Him with prayer.

Also, find a place that doesn’t have a lot of distractions. Try not to choose a place where the computer is beeping, the phone is ringing and you have lots of questions to answer. Find or make a sweet, quiet atmosphere for your time with the Lord. Perhaps it is in your bedroom with some soft hymn music playing or outdoors in a chair on the grass. Or maybe just sitting at a table or desk keeps you more focused. Pray to the Lord for strength to keep focused on Him and for limited distractions.

One other tip is to get into the routine of reading the Bible first before reading any other books. This way you make sure you are grounded in the Word and putting His Word first in our lives. The Lord Jesus gave His life for us and put us first…now we can put Him first in our lives!

 

ROYAL DAUGHTERS OF THE KING: How do you perform your duties (such as school, etc.) to the glory of God?

MISS ELIZABETH: Do them as if Jesus is watching…because He is! Exodus 20:12 says, “Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.” When we honor and obey our parents we are glorifying the Lord. So when they ask you to take out the dishes, do it cheerfully, as if doing it unto the Lord! Colossians 3:23 says, “And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men.” Memorizing Scriptures like these can be really encouraging reminders when you grow tired or upset with doing tasks day after day. Singing hymns can also be uplifting and to those around you (assuming that it isn’t a distraction to them :D)! Serve Jesus diligently! He is definitely worth living for! It can be difficult, but do it cheerfully for Him.

ROYAL DAUGHTERS OF THE KING: How do you use your gift of writing to glorify the Lord?

MISS ELIZABETH: When writing, speaking, or thinking, I find it helpful to think, “Is what I’m saying/thinking/writing pleasing to the Lord right now?” We want to please the Lord in all we do. How do we know if it is pleasing to the Lord? This verse is great in discovering if it is pleasing to Him: Philippians 4:8- “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” Also, “Is this a profitable, worthwhile use of my time?” Are we edifying, encouraging others? We want to encourage others, not tear them down and we don’t want to build ourselves up pridefully. Also, I would suggest to have your dad and/or mom edit/proof your writing before it is published or mailed, as they often have good insights, concerns and suggestions. So in writing, consider if you are (1) pleasing the Lord and (2) encouraging others.

  
ROYAL DAUGHTERS OF THE KING: What are some of the ways you use your influence on your younger brothers to live more for Jesus?



MISS ELIZABETH: Look for ways to be a blessing to them! Encourage them. Look for ways to make their day special. Also, if you aim to be a kind sister with Biblical qualities of daughterhood…our brothers will probably seek those things in a future wife. Our brothers are going to be the next generation’s leaders and we want to be good influences. I would highly recommend reading the chapter “Brothers and Sisters” in J.R. Miller’s book, “The Family.” (Formerly titled “Home-Making”) Originally published in 1882, this chapter gave me new vision and again brought me to realize what an influence we have on our brothers. It can be difficult, but so worth it. I have so far to come in this area and patience with my brothers is something I constantly am praying for. But I have seen others who have wonderful relationships with their brothers and I want to keep making progress in having close relationships with them…and ones that continue in years to come.

I love meeting other young ladies who have younger brothers. (Specifically only brothers, like myself right now). It is a great privilege to have and one that is very special to me. I love having brothers! Of course, I get frustrated at times, but I am so thankful the Lord blessed me with brothers. One time I heard how when we grow older, our brothers (and dads) can be like “secret agents” on brothers in Christ who could be possible future husbands. :) Pray for your brothers. Pray for their future wives. Our brothers need our prayers! Uplift them in prayer.

I would like to end this section with a few favorite quotes from “The Family.” {Available from Vision Forum HERE!} “Next to mother and father there is no one who can do so much to help a young man live nobly as his sister…It is not the help of good advice and earnest words--these should have power too--but the help rather of silent and holy influence, gained in the home by a life of unselfishness and beauty, and then held as a potent charm outside and beyond the home walls.”

{Miss Elizabeth & her cousin Ava}

ROYAL DAUGHTERS OF THE KING: Do you have a hope chest? If so, what are the most important items to include (to you)?

MISS ELIZABETH: Yes, I do have a hope chest, which is a medium white wicker “chest” in my room. It’s a small collection of some things that may be helpful in a future home. I look forward to adding more in the years to come, but recently I haven’t been adding a lot of new things. Some of my favorite items in mine are: a red/white checked tablecloth and frayed-style napkins (the hem was sewn by my friends and I at my 13th birthday), a box of recipes (I don’t have a lot, but I hope to add more), some cooking accessories (hot pad, whisk, etc.), knitted handmade dishcloths in brown and blue, some items from my grandparents, etc. I have found “The Hope Chest: A Legacy of Love” by Rebekah Wilson to be a wonderful resource. Sometimes it’s a bit overwhelming at all of the ideas, but just focus on a few handmade, special items at first. Two other things I consider kind of like a hope chest are: my collection of books (although there aren’t a ton, I hope they will be an encouragement to my future daughters, if the Lord wills) and my homemaking binder (kind of like a hope chest of papers and ideas).

Just a quick note--even though it is good to have a vision for the future, try to focus mostly on serving the Lord now. Trust in the Lord to work the details of your life together in His timing and way-because it is perfect and best. Focus on delighting in the Lord. Psalm 37:4 is one of my very favorite verses- “Delight thyself also in the Lord: and He shall give thee the desires of thine heart.”



ROYAL DAUGHTERS OF THE KING: Is there a message you would like to share in closing?



MISS ELIZABETH: It can be difficult to stand alone and be different in this world. But if we are on the Lord’s side, it will be so worth it to stand alone for Him. And we’re really not standing alone, because He is always with us! Recently the Lord has been teaching me to trust Him completely, keep my heart with all diligence (Prov. 4:23), and to rest in Him. He is the most faithful Friend one could ever have! Even though earthly friendships can and will be disappointing at times, the Lord is always faithful and will never break His promises. Put Him as your #1 Best Friend. I would like to close with a verse that has been a blessing to me recently: 1 Samuel 12:24- “Only fear the LORD, and serve him in truth with all your heart: for consider how great things he hath done for you.” He has truly done great things for us! Keep shining brightly for Him!

I would also like to thank Johanna and Bethany for kindly asking me to share some thoughts with you. I am excited to see how the Lord continues to use this lovely website. I still have struggles and feel like there are so many other young ladies who would bring more encouragement to you all than myself, but hopefully and prayerfully, by God’s grace, some of this may be a blessing to you. Thank you and many blessings! Neh. 8:10b- “The joy of the Lord is your strength.” ♥

With Joy in Christ Jesus,

Elizabeth

www.joyfuljewels4jesus.blogspot.com

Endnotes:

(1) http://www.homeschoolfamilyforum.com/ViewBlogEntry.aspx?EntryId=135 (“Femininity” by Raquelle Sheen)