Two Teens, Two Realities

Ahh, Facebook, you double-edged sword, you.

When you’re in your twenties, there comes a time when you log onto “The Book” and it’s like, overnight, every single one of your friends has gotten engaged. Scroll through your newsfeed, and it’s engagement photo after engagement photo, or better yet….babies.

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Well, needless to say, it’s happening.

And I’m over here just like, “Hey! Who wants to go to boozy brunch on Saturday!?”

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JK, JK… kind of 🙂

ANYWAY

Many of these said “engagees”  are people that, for lack of a better word, are blasts from the past.

You know: your former teammates from high school, elementary school buddies, that random girl you went to summer camp with one year in middle school who became your “best friend for life.”

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Right.

Well, this morning, as I was lazily scrolling through FB, I found my mind wandering back to adolescence, reminiscing about my friends, now elegant and engaged, in their former brace-faced and awkward stage.

Adolescence. Boy, I remember it like yesterday. Fourteen years old, braces, Abercrombie everything, feeling on top of the world. What great years.

I developed my anorexia when I was 16, so if I’m being really honest, fourteen was probably one of my most favorite years growing up.

And spoiler alert: I was a crazy kid. Not crazy in a bad way. But crazy in a wild, goofy, spirited way.

When I was a freshman, I was on the Varsity soccer team. And one of my favorite memories was, as “initiation,” the senior girls picked me up in the middle of the night, and we went and TP’d the house of the captain of the boy’s Varsity soccer team.

For those of you that may be unfamiliar with that term, it’s when you throw toilet paper all over the trees and bushes of someone’s house. This can also include “forking” someone’s yard: aka sticking hundreds of plastic forks in the grass. These harmless pranks are signs of respect in the Midwest. Seriously.

Anyways, that was me, age fourteen. Loving life. Albeit a little irresponsible.

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This past week at church, we recounted the history of when the angel, Gabriel, gave Mary the “tidings of good news”… that she was going to have a baby named Jesus.

And the passage in Luke (1:26) continues on to describe how Mary is confounded by this news. She says to Gabriel, “How can this be, since I have no relations with a man?” (AKA – she was a virgin). Gabriel replies, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you…For nothing will be impossible for God.” Mary answers, “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word.”

Mary didn’t quite understand the how/when of it all, but she said YES.

Although the Bible doesn’t explicitly state it, given the Jewish cultural history at the time, most theologians believe that Mary was 14 years old when this happened.

Allow me to say that again so it sinks in: Mary was 14 years old. An adolescent. A kid.

That is mind-blowing.

At fourteen, I was TP-ing houses, crushing on boys, preoccupied with high school dances, which table I sat at during lunch bell, and learning the hard way that eye shadow is not supposed to be pink and glittery.

What was Mary doing? SAYING YES TO BIRTHING THE SAVIOR OF THE WORLD.

Yeahhhh. And I thought high school was tough.

But in all seriousness, there is a lot to learn from Mary. And whether you’re Catholic, Evangelical, or someone who is just searching for Truth and Peace in this crazy world, there is something to be taken away from that little convo between Gabriel and Mary.

When Gabriel told Mary that she was going to give birth to a son, she was absolutely perplexed, because what he was saying was literally impossible.

Mary had never had sex. Having a baby was physically and biologically impossible. And I’m pretty sure they didn’t have a hot tub to test the urban legend that you can get pregnant just by sitting in one.

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But what does Gabriel tell her? “Nothing will be impossible for God.”


 Nothing. Not having a baby without having sex. Not healing your heart from a recent break up. Not breaking an addiction to porn or online shopping or destructive behaviors. Not the dependence – yes, dependence – on an eating disorder, not alleviating fears or anxieties about the state of the world, or the loss of a job, or a seemingly-insurmountable amount student debt. NOTHING.

Why?

Because she said yes.

This little fourteen year old girl, who –at least in my case- would have otherwise been going through an awkward phase, trying to figure out how to wear her hair, and being a teenager – made the selfless and most trusting decision of all time: saying yes to God. “May it be done to me according to your word.”

But that’s not the end of the story.

Mary, obvs. is a predominant player in the history of Salvation. And, at least in the Bible, significant characters have significant lines. Especially when they’re the first or last words uttered.

And so it is with our heroine. The last recorded words she says, are “Do whatever He tells you.” (John 2:5) And surprise, surprise, this has to do with Jesus doing yet another impossible thing: turning water into wine at the wedding of Cana. (Are we sensing a pattern yet?)

Do whatever He tells you.

That was her “yes.” That was how she lived her life. That is how, with God, the impossible was done.

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I highly doubt my fourteen-year-old self would have had the maturity or grace to make that decision.

But I do know that I spent a long time not doing that: when I was living for myself. Living for ED. And I can tell you with 100% certainty that doing opposite leads only to destruction and decay. Just ask my 78-pound, osteopenic former self.

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Nobody is perfect. And though I now try to follow Mary’s example, I still, more often than not, fall short. But the key is to try. I’ve seen God do the impossible in my life: healing my spirit and releasing me from the grip of severe anorexia.

But it involved me saying “yes” to Him. “Yes” to Him coming into my heart to mend my wounds.

Gabriel is at your door right now. How will you respond?

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142 responses to “Two Teens, Two Realities”

  3. Three simple letters that make up one word: YES.
    God tells us in scripture to keep our answers simple.
    Yes is a profound word but surrendering is often the hardest thing for mankind to understand; b/c of our carnal sin nature
    Yes=Salvation=Freedom

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  5. Saying yes reminds me of the tragic story of Cassie Bernell (I think that’s her last name). She was murdered for saying yes she believed in Christ. When I first heard that story, I was too young to understand the significance and could only focus on the death. Now that I look at it, what a way to be a light for God!
    I want to say yes. I choose to say yes. Have a wonderful week 🙂

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    • Hey Ellie! Oh my gosh what a tragic story. How brave of that young girl. You’re so right, the significance is powerful. I would hope to be so brave. Thanks so much for stopping by and for your thoughtful words. I always love seeing your beautiful face on my dash! Hugs!!

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  6. This is an AMAZING post!!!!!!!!!!!!! Thank you so much for this!!!!!!!!!!!! Mary has been on my mind lately, as I have also just written a post about her great strength. So, this was definitely a post that directly hit my heart. This was wonderful!!!!! 🙂

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    • Oh my goodness thank you so much for such kind and encouraging words! It seriously means so much ☺️☺️☺️ I’m glad it struck a chord with you:) yes, this time of year I also find myself contemplating Mary too:) thanks for stopping by:) you filled my heart with joy with your words!

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  8. This post definitely did not go where I expected, love it! 🙂 excellent point, my 14 year old self would have been a nightmare to mankind! lol

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    • Haha thanks! Yeah mine too!! Bethlehem would have been under a blanket of toilet paper 😂😂😂 thanks for your feedback! I appreciate you taking the time to read! Have a great night! Xx

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  9. Two things… “Fourteen years old, braces, Abercrombie everything, feeling on top of the world.” Too good haha

    Secondly (more seriously) – Though Mary’s fiat to God was immeasurably admirable, and really incomparable all together, if our bodies are really Temples of the Holy Ghost (1 Corinth 6:19-20), aren’t our choices to maintain a healthy dwelling place a fiat to God too? I think it was St. Thomas Aquinas who said that our choices to harm our bodies (his words: “drinking past the point of cheerfulness” <– I love this phrasing) by excessively drinking or using drugs… or yes… harming ourselves nutritionally, is defacing God, after Whom we are created. Of course, drinking, drugs, etc., are more of choice than other things like perhaps eating disorders, but I think the point still holds? Maybe not? Not sure.

    But anyway, great post. Anything involving Our Blessed Mother is good enough for me. 🙂

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    • Hi Michigan Man! Thank outfit sharing this beautiful scripture. You’re so right. Our bodies are temples and to be treated as such. I definitely learned that the hard way. But yes Mary fiat was truly inspiring and a model for us all. Thanks for stopping by! Have a great night!

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  14. How strange, because I went to a lecture yesterday about Mary too! And I was thinking the same thing – if Mary could go through the pain of childbirth and the torment and shame of not having a husband, then I can fight the bad thoughts in my head.

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    • Hey Jasmine! What a coincidence! There’s a lot of truth in that. She’s a beautiful example of someone who gives it all. Literally. So much of her story resonates in my heart. Not to mention the fact that she didn’t know how exactly is was all going to go down. She just had to trust that everything was going to happen how it is supposed to. Does that sound like recovery or what?! Thanks for stopping by, friend! Have a great great night! xx

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  16. Beauty, this is such a great inspiring post. Terrific portrayal of two girls. What an adventure awaits the one who says yes to divinity! That also means saying no to a lot of the “earthly.”

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    • Hi Oneta! Thank you so much! you’re right, yes to Him brings so much freedom and life and yes, adventure! And also, saying no, but in that “no” we are actually flourishing in freedom and goodness that He wants for us….if that makes sense…haha it’s late and I’m dozing off to sleep! haha anywho! Thanks so much for stopping by, and for your thoughtful insight 🙂 hugs to you!

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  18. What a great post. So inspiring. It really gives perspective to me on the little things that God may be asking of me. I totally hear you on how destructive and “down the wrong path” we can get by not just doing what He tells us to do, by not trusting in His wisdom and amazing plan for our lives. Thanks for the inspiration this morning. Whole new perspective on some things I need to do today! Peace to you.

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    • Thank you so much! I really appreciate your kind and thoughtful response! ☺️ you’re so right — thankfully there is peace and comfort in knowing that He wants only good for his children. And that He is walking right beside us day by day. Have a beautiful morning, friend. Thanks for stopping by Hugs!

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  19. While I don’t remember my days as a fourteen-year-old girl (ahem), I still love this post. Nothing is impossible. I’m so glad you tied it into so many real struggles that most folks seem uncomfortable talking about. Great post!

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    • Hey Steve! haha hmmmm that’s shocking!! 😉 😉 😉 But in all seriousness, thank you for this encouraging comment! We’re all on a journey, and are dealing with this or that. I’m just so grateful that we don’t have to do it alone, and that truly, nothing is impossible. Thanks again for stopping by! Have a great Monday!

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  21. Wonderful reminder that NOTHING is impossible for God. Mary can teach us so much. I’ve recently begun praying the rosary again after a hiatus of a number of years and it amazes me how much one can learn from the “mysteries” that it offers for reflection. Thanks for the great post.

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  25. This was a really great blog entry 🙂 I love how you compare and contrast your life at the age of 14 to that of Mary’s acknowledging what was different between you two. Whenever any of us hear the story of Mary giving birth to Jesus at that age would make any individual remember all the things they did at the age of 14. Thank goodness that your eating disorder (of course you do not have an ED anymore) did not happen to you at the age of 14 because this blog entry probably would have been hard to read because nobody (not even you) wants to bring up a painful part of your past in relation to a blog entry regarding Mary bringing Jesus into the world. I love how you recall Gabriel’s story in this entry too which is just beautiful and it is always a huge plus to try and measure up to how Mary would want a human being to be 🙂 Anyway, keep up the great work as always 🙂

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    • Hey John! Thank you for this thoughtful response! I am always so humbled when I hear Mary’s story. She truly is such a beauty example of selflessness and trust. Definitely lessons I could learn a thing or two about 🙂 yes, how powerful that young girl’s life was. Thanks as always for your reflection John. I always find so much wisdom and truth in your insight. Have a wonderful evening 🙂

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  26. Loved this. And, yep, I am one of those 30-somethingers, still trying to make blue eyeshadow work. Whaddaya mean it doesn’t? 🙁 jk lol

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  27. What an amazing way to tell of GOD’S love for us. I was compelled to return my 14th year and in my minds eye I hugged the little man and told him “don’t worry GOD will work it out”. I was really moved by your story, I am typing with tears in my eyes. Thank you for sharing!

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    • Hi Bill, oh my gosh thank you for such kind words. They absolutely warm my heart. I’m so glad that this struck a chord with you 🙂 You’re so right-we are so loved by our Heavenly Father. And He really does want only good for His beloved children. Nothing is impossible for Him. Have a wonderful evening, Bill. Thanks again for stopping by!

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  29. Good message about Teens beautybeyondbones but not sure Mary was only 14, the Trip to her Cousin Elisabeth when she was 3mths Pregnant would seem to raise questions as to her Parents letting her go but as I said I don’t know for sure, I will let you know when I do and with Scriptural confirmation.

    Yes True Beauty is within which I see in you beautybeyondbones, your focus on Jesus shines…..

    But very True we will never achieve Worldly Perfection, it keeps changing but we are to aim to be Perfected in Love as God asks us to and which is confirmed in the Scripture below. God’s Love within when Perfected means we do not sin.

    Matthew 5:48 Be ye therefore Perfect, even as your Father which is in Heaven is perfect.

    Hebrews 6:1 Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto Perfection not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works and of faith toward God,

    2 Corinthians 7: 1 Having therefore these promises dearly beloved let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit Perfecting Holiness in the fear of God.

    2 Timothy 3:16-17 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be Perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.

    2 Timothy 2:19-21 Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are His. And, let every one that nameth the Name of Christ depart from iniquity. But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some to honour, and some to dishonour. If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the Master’s use, and prepared unto every good work.

    1John 4:17-19 Herein is our Love made Perfect that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as He is so are we in this world. There is no fear in Love; but Perfect Love casteth out fear because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made Perfect in Love. We Love Him because He first Loved us.

    2 Corinthians 13:11 Finally, brethren, farewell. Be Perfect, be of good comfort be of one mind, live in Peace and the God of Love and Peace shall be with you.

    Christian Love Always – Anne.

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    • Hi Anne❤️ thank you for sharing such beautiful scripture! The passage from 1 John is one my favorites: perfect love casts out all fear. It gives me so much hope and is so comforting. You offer some terrific insight here: it is through Jesus’ death on the cross that we will be perfected one day. Yes, we are fallen but we should always aim to follow Christ’s perfect example and strive for holiness. I’m just so grateful for His mercy and forgiveness because I am ALWAYS screwing up! 😬😂🙏 And thank you for your feedback on Mary’s age. It’s not specifically stated in scripture, but the research I did suggests that she was around 14, since it was the Jewish tradition for a girl to wed at that age (some even as young as 12!) can you imagine!! But that’s just the research I did, I could very well be mistaken. I guess it’s hard to be positive about it since it wasn’t explicitly stated! Thanks for stopping by and for your wonderful response! Hugs and blessings to you!

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      • Yes you are right beautybeyondbones, it is hard to be positive about Mary’s Age but she does show Maturity in her knowledge and actions, still if it was important it would have been noted the same as Jesus’ Birth-date was.

        God tells us no Temptation to sin will be greater than we can bear and that Jesus has set us free from the Slavery of sin below is the Plan of Salvation and the Scriptures confirm that we do not continue to sin when we are Born again. I have heard a few wrong understandings of what sin is, it’s not about our weakness and shortcomings or worry and even anger although our emotions can lead to sin, like being angry and holding onto bitterness and resentment and seeking revenge or when we worry about material things and it becomes our focus instead of God and it can lead to stealing, addictive gambling etc because of not Trusting in God to meet our needs.

        I only share beautybeyondbones what Jesus our only Teacher has showed me by the confirmation of Scripture, some of which is below and they are never in error when we understand them having asked for His wisdom and empowering and without doubting we have them, He than can lead us into all Truth..Luke 11:13 Proverbs 4:7 – James 1:5-6 – Colossians 2 :2 -3 (KJV) 1Corinthians 2:9-16

        1 – God is Love, it is His seed or Nature and Love can do no evil, not ever!

        2 – When we were Born, we had Adam’s seed or Nature but we are under God’s grace through the Blood of Christ which covered us, by His foreknowledge God knows those who are His, He knows all things, like who will come to heart repentance and who won’t,. He Loved all Mankind and sent Jesus to Redeem us but He chooses us according to His foreknowledge, we can’t earn Salvation by doing fleshy works although we will show by His good works we have it, Faith without works is dead.

        3 -When we are old enough to know right from wrong, it is our choice when we come to heart repentance, God won’t force us to accept His free gift of Salvation in Christ Jesus and so be conformed into His image, He does not want Puppets but The Holy Spirit does draw us to Him, until we come to our senses though and repent and believe in Jesus as our Lord and Saviour, we will reap what we sow like the Prodigal Son did but Wow what a welcome home .

        4 – God tells us when we are Born Again we are set free, we have His seed or Nature which is Love, so we also can do no evil. John8:34-36 1John3:9 Ephesians 4:23-24 -1John 3:1 6-7 (KJV)

        5 – He tells us to reckon ourselves dead to sin, not to say we will sin, as a man thinks in his heart so he will do. He also tells us no Temptation will be greater than we can bear as I shared before, He provides the way of escape when we ask. There is a difference between weaknesses and shortcoming and when we are sinning, we only judge and rebuke sin with God’s Truth not a fleshy agenda.

        6 – God tells us to put our flesh to death by the Spirit (Luke 11:13), what is dead can’t cause us to sin. Paul showed the battle he had with his flesh in Romans 7 but than showed us how walk in Victory in… Romans8:12-15 – Romans6 – Colossians3:4-6 – Galatians24 -26 – 2Corinthians7:1 and other Scriptures.(KJV)

        7 – God tells us if we say we haven’t sinned and so don’t need Salvation, we are calling Him a liar but if we say we will sin after we have been Born again, we are also calling Him a liar, He tells us we CANNOT sin when we have His seed or Nature, Jesus lives His life in us which means we are perfected in Love and Love does not sin – 1John 3:9 1John 3:6-7 – 1John 4:17-19 -1John 2:4-6 Romans 8:12-15 – Romans 6:5-7 -Daniel 12:10 (KJV) and we are to aim to be perfected, Jesus tells us to seek, ask and knock.

        8- Can we loose our Salvation No! not after we have been Born Again and if we are known by God we will be Born again, we were already saved before we are Born but are working out our Salvation, meaning doing what God asks us to do so we can be complete by being perfected in His Love, this is not not worldly self centered love. But before we are Born again we are to be on gard against Satan’s temptations to cause us to fall into sin, which we can be forgiven of when we repent, Jesus is our Advocate, we than turn from evil and do good by The Holy Spirits empowering.

        9 – The only way we can loose our Salvation is to reject Jesus as our Lord and Saviour and this is Blaspheming The Holy Spirit which is the unforgivable sin, we are calling Him a liar, He shows us Jesus is a reality. But if we are known by God as His, He knows we won’t do this, He knows our heart, this is why He chose us.

        10 – How do we know if we are Born Again, The Holy Spirit tells us… How does He do this… Do we Love God, does it hurt us to hear others belittle Him, do we care if others are in darkness, do you seek to help those in need, do we Love unconditionally and Sacrificially, do we NO longer sin ….

        11 – We are perfected in Love by the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, if we are not but we are seeking to do all these things, we will be. What if we are not, than we are still in darkness- 2 Corinthians 7: 1.Hebrews 6:1 – Matthew 5:48 – 1John 4:16-17 -1John 4: 18-19 – (KJV)

        12 – What is the most important thing for us to do … LOVE GOD AND OTHERS not because we have to but because we won’t to and we will won’t to as we walk in The Spirit. Romans 8 (KJV )

        Christian Love in Christ Jesus – Anne.

      • Hi Anne, thank you for this response. I agree, Jesus helps us resist temptation. The Lord’s Prayer reminds us of that every Sunday when we pray “lead us not into temptation.” I know that i am weak, but with Him I am strong. What a comfort to know that His strength can be found in my weakness:) thanks for stopping by and for such a thoughtful reflection. Hugs and blessings to you this morning! ☺️

      • Are you saying that you believe that we can sin when we are Born Again beautybeyondbones and when we are perfected in Love, if so you need to read the Scripture below after asking God for His wisdom and empowering,

        The Lords Prayer was given before Pentecost and is in reference to the Past, the Present and the Future. God does not lead us into temptation, He tells us He does not temp us with evil (see below ) so what is this Prayer really saying to us today?

        James 1:12-14 Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that Love Him. Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed.

        We do not and cannot continue to sin when we are Born Again. and Perfected in Love Jesus has set us free……….

        John 8:34-36 Jesus replied, “I tell you the truth, everyone who sins is a slave to sin. Now a slave has no permanent place in the family, but a son belongs to it forever. So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.

        1 John 3:9 No one who is Born of God will continue to sin, because God’s seed remains in him; he Cannot go on sinning, because he has been Born of God.

        1 John 3: 1-11 ( 6-7 ) Whosoever abideth in Him sinneth not: whosoever sinneth hath not seen Him, neither known Him. Little children, let no man/woman deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as He is righteous.

        1 John 5:18-20 We know that no one who is Born of God sins; but He who was Born of God keeps him, and the evil one does not touch him.

        Romans 8 :12-15 Therefore, brothers, we have an obligation—but it is not to the sinful nature, to live according to it. or if you live according to the sinful nature, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the misdeeds of the body, you will live, because those who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God.

        Romans 6 :1 – 2 What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein?

        2 Timothy 2:19-21 Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are His. And, let every one that nameth the Name of Christ depart from iniquity. But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some to honour, and some to dishonour. If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the Master’s use, and prepared unto every good work.

        Romans 6:5-7 For if we have been planted together in the likeness of His death, we shall be also in the likeness of His resurrection: Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with Him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. For he that is dead is freed from sin.

        John 8:11 She said, No man, Lord. And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more.

        Romans 8: 8 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.

        Romans 8 :12-15 Therefore, brothers, we have an obligation—but it is not to the sinful nature, to live according to it. or if you live according to the sinful nature, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the misdeeds of the body, you will live, because those who are led by the Spirit of God are sons/daughters of God.

        Romans 6:11 Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord.

        Romans 6:18-20 Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness.

        1 John 2:4-6 He that saith, I know Him, and keepeth not His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But whoso keepeth His word, in him verily is the Love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in Him. He that saith he abideth in Him ought himself also so to walk, even as He walked.

        Ephesians 4:23-24 And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.

        1 John 4:17-19 Herein is our Love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as He is, so are we in this world.

        Ephesians 4:23-24 And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.

        1 John 4:17-19 Herein is our Love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as He is, so are we in this world. There is no fear in Love; but perfect Love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in Love. We Love Him, because He first Loved us.

        2 Corinthians 7:1 Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.

        Titus 2:13-15 Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto Himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works. These things speak, and exhort, and rebuke with all Authority. Let no man despise thee.

        Colossians 3:4-6 When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory. Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry. Because of these, the wrath of God is coming.

        Daniel 12:10 Many shall be purified, and made white, and tried; but the wicked shall do wickedly: and none of the wicked shall understand; but the wise shall understand.

        2Corinthians 13:11 Finally, brethren, farewell. Be perfect, be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in Peace; and the God of Love and Peace shall be with you.

        Christian Love in Christ Jesus – Anne.

      • Hi Anne, thank you again for sharing these passages of scripture with us. Reflecting on His word always brings such comfort and peace. I agree, God never leads us into temptation, and I sincerely hope that it didn’t sound like I was saying that. I just meant that we have free will, and living in the world, temptations are all around us. On that same token, free will is something that we were given. It is a gift. And yet, with it comes great responsibility. Although I have been forgiven and saved through Jesus’s death on the cross, I am 100% not perfect. I still fall into sin. All the time. Several times a day, if not more. But the Lord is merciful and forgiving and forgives us when we repent. I am In no way a scripture scholar, and this is just my humble understanding of redemption. So id like to pass the baton regarding this important topic to your local priest or pastor. ❤️ but thank you so much for your deep reflection and responses. God is good! Hugs and love to you xox

      • I’m not asking a question that I don’t know the answer for beautybeyondbones , I have asked for God’s wisdom and empowering and I don’t doubt He has giving them to me do you? God does not lie and He keeps His promises. Jesus tells us to ask and we will receive not one of us was Born with God’s wisdom, yes we need to ask.

        1John 2:26-28 These things have I written unto you concerning them that seduce you. But the anointing which ye have received of Him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is Truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in Him.

        Proverbs 4:7 Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.

        James 1:5-6 If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord. A double minded man is unstable in all his ways.

        Luke 11:13 …….how much more shall your Heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask Him?

        The Scripture I shared with you beautybeyondbones confirms; we do not and cannot continue to sin when we are Born Again, if you are sinning you have not been perfected in Love yet , you have not been Born again, your still in darkness but I’m not saying you won’t be, if we are known by God as His own not one of us will be lost but you are being disobedient to what He tells us to do……

        Romans 6:11 Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord.

        Christian Love Always – Anne.

      • Hello again Anne, I’m afraid we’re missing the forest for the trees, here. I’m sorry if you feel I am being disobedient. I’m afraid I don’t agree. I (like everyone) struggle with sin, because I am a fallen human being. I won’t be made perfect until Heaven. Yes, I have been “Born Again” – it happened during my baptism when I was forgiven of sin, and given new life in the spirit. Jesus completes this on the cross. Regardless our definition of born again or sin or temptation, we need to keep in mind the big picture, and that is to love God and love one another. In Matthew 22:36 Jesus reminds us: the greatest commandment is to love the Lord your God with all your heart with all your soul and with all your mind. And the second commandment is to love your neighbor as yourself. In this life, all I can do is spread His love and try my best to follow His example. We all fall into the occasion of sin, as we are not perfected yet on this earth. That perfection will come in Heaven. Again, I appreciate your devotion to the scripture and our spirited dialogue. May we always remember the source of our joy and freedom. Love and hugs ❤️

    • Oh my gosh Pam, thank you so much for such kind words! Your affirmation means the world. Truly:) glad it struck a chord with you. Thanks for your continued readership❤️ love and blessings to you xox

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  35. Very enjoyable read. I’m unsure how i would respond to Gab even after that talk. It’s funny, i just wrote about old Gab and Mary yesterday. I’m learning so much about life just hanging out here. I’ve been focusing on thinking alot maybe it is time for a change. Action and a little bit of life progress. Thanks for the like.

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    • Thanks! Yeah it’s an interesting thing to think about .. I don’t know how I’d respond either. Thanks for such kind words, friend. turning thoughts into action is where the rubber meets the road. but I believe in you! You can totally do it! ☺️👍 i look forward to reading more from you!

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  36. Hi! wow, I wasn’t expecting what I have just read from ‘beautybeyondbones,’ I thought i’d read the usual girly things….. It was a real insight. This is the first entry I read in your blog and literally finished it off. You got the reader and you conveyed the message. No one can really understand Mary, more than females do. Thanks thanks a lot!

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  37. Thanks for your post. God knows our desire to follow Him and our lack of ability to do so without the Spirit. The bible has countless stories of ordinary / average people who said ‘yes’ to an extra-ordinary God. ‘His strength is made perfect in our weekness’, ‘with God all things are possible.

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  38. Fantastic post! I, too, use Mary as a source of strength and inspiration in my recovery. One of the parts of the Annunciation story that I love is that Mary was able to overcome her initial doubt (“How can this be?”) and answered, “Yes!” with faith. She didn’t know the plan, and there were no promises or guarantees that everything would work out. She accepted the uncertainty. She faced the societal consequences of being an unwed mother with courage and conviction. During my very early recovery, I listened to a priest talk about how Mary responded to fear with faith, and that is what we are asked to do. Whenever I feel afraid, at times when I might have used eating behaviors in the past, I try to remind myself of those words and Mary’s example, to face fear with faith. Because you are absolutely right. Nothing is impossible for God, and in his perfect goodness, he wants us all to live full, happy, healthy lives. ❤️

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    • Thank you, Lulu for this beautiful reflection. Mary is such a beautif example of faith and trust. You’re so right, she overcame her initial doubt and proved that God can and will do the impossible. Thanks for stopping by, friend! Wishing you blessings and peace this Christmas! Hugs!

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  39. What a beautiful post. My grandmother (Italian Catholic) always believed in the power of the Blessed Mother, I am so glad you are in a healthier place. And thank you so much for visiting my blog. Merry Christmas!!!

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  42. Wow was I blessed by what you shared. Although I recently shared on this topic, your joyful spirit put a new spin on the story for me. You are anointed to preach/write. 👍🏼😊keep on encouraging others and the Lord will keep encouraging you!

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  43. Lovely to read this after reading a book on the Holy Spirit and pretty much saying yes to Him… Ahh Lord, what are you trying to say?! 😛

    Thanks, I’m really enjoying your posts!

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    • Haha oh yes, Marisol. Sometimes the Holy Spirit is a quiet whisper, and sometime he’s a fog horn! Haha 😂 but seriously I’m glad you enjoyed this piece. Mary’s yes is such a beautiful example of trust and faith. Thanks again for your wonderful comments❤️❤️❤️hugs xx

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  44. I don’t think I am getting anything else done this new year’s eve than read your blog.
    I am still here And loving every moment here. :p #NotAStalker

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  46. So there are a number of things that I gather from this post. If you allow me a few moments of your time I will explain. Number one Bravo my friend for summing up the experiences of teenagers in high school better than merriam-webster could ever do. Number 2 if you are receiving that kind of message from one sermon on the virgin birth then perhaps you should be the one in the pulpit and the preacher in question should be the one in the pew. Infect you want to hear more about this preacher guy. Number 3, your writing skills are phenomenal you have a gift. Use it to help reach others. out of all the blogs on here and there’s a lot statistically there is about 450 million blogs on the internet. By far this is my favorite blog. are you sure you’re an actress? I ask you this because you seem to convey real portrait of life that is more relatable then any Hollywood big blockbuster film could ever do. PS number 4 I agree with you regarding Facebook. while I was on the social media site I found myself hating people because of the constant flow of neverending engagement or baby photos. Now being in my 30’s I sometimes find it difficult to go to weddings being single and all. Sometimes, while at the weddings I often have an urge to grab the microphone and tell people are these the girls anyway that I’m in the room.

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  47. Hello, I just got your newest post update for it to my email. I took a gander at it and I have to say although I didn’t read much into it I did like what you post and I will be reading your news post in the very near future. From the newest post you can expect a comment and a like from me on my end. although I can physically do it right now I would love to give beauty before Bones a big thumbs up for constantly continuing to write and maintain your passion. I love writing.

    Reply

      • Oh also my newest posts are available for viewing. I also want to personally thank you for being awesome, a good friend and someone that I can share my reading passion with. That’s why when I say that I appreciate you. I want you to know that I mean it.

      • Ok, I recently took the time to read your post about the puzzle piece. Usually I’m a man of many words. Usually with my skills I can influence a crowd by the way I speak. After reading your blog on the puzzle piece I find myself at a bit of a standstill. You my dear friend are very insightful. Whenever you write seems to turn to gold every time. I just want to say that I think you hit the nail on the head when describing what we all struggle with. Even as I write this to you now I find myself on a personal level trying my best not to cry. No I don’t have anorexia, what does a teenager I did have an eating disorder mainly due to stressful family situations. I’m sympathetic to your plight. I’m also a branch of strength for you. I don’t know what else to say except oftentimes you’re right as human beings we think we can do a lot of things on our own. when it comes to writing you write with simplistic beauty and common understanding that is sensible to every man or woman that read your blog. Even I a man of God don’t have all the answers. I often times fall short when trying to ask God for help because sometimes I don’t realize it. tonight your blog has certainly made me realize how much we definitely need. Not only for the little things but for the big things as well. From a personal standpoint in the next few days I will be moving on to the next phase in my life. I’m extremely nervous about the new venture. no one in my immediate family or group of friends know exactly how nervous I am. I need the good Lord to give me wisdom and abundance. At times I feel as though I’m taking the road like the Apostle Paul which in his case he went into the wilderness for 3 years. I’m going to ask you a favor and I say this with all love and respect towards you. could you pray for me? Thank you ever so kindly BBB.

      • Thank you so much for such encouraging and affirming words:) I am humbled. Yes I will absolutely pray for you and your situation. God is good and will not abandon us in time of need. Thanks for reading

      • I am frightened beyond belief. I’ve overcome college by the skin of my teeth. I’ve overcome having my legs broken 12x by orthopedic surgeons. I’ve overcome the loss of loved ones. I have I’ve overcome food allergies. I’ve overcome getting smacked in the face with a piece of watermelon my first day on the job at the wrestling arena. I have overcome many other personal battles. But perhaps the biggest challenge I face currently is living on my own for the first time. I’m not used to hearing silence. I come from a big family where the house is filled with people yelling and screaming. Although the screaming and yelling aren’t very pleasant there’s still noise and people in the house. Sometimes too much silence makes me nervous. I just thought I’d tell you that I apologize if you ever feel burdened by me.

      • Just wanted to let you know that tomorrow is the big day. I will be blogging about my experiences in my new surroundings as time progresses. Thanks for being a prayer warrior for me. Phil 4;13. Love ya bud.

  50. After I first read this, I was thinking of how we sing to the Theotokos in my church.

    “It is truly meet to bless you, oh Theotokos, ever blessed and most pure and the mother of our God. More honorable than the Cherubim and more glorious beyond compare than the Seraphim, without defilement you gave birth to God, the Word. True Theotokos we magnify you!”

    She has seemingly endless lessons for us in her ministry to the church. Thank you for sharing this. It was the first thing I read today and made for a good beginning.

    Reply

    • Hi Damhan! Thank you for this reflection. I’m glad this resonated with you! Yes, Mary is such a great role model–even today. Her obedience and trust stands the test of time. Hugs and love to you!

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  51. When I was a corporate instructor I taught classes that had to do with PROCESS. First day, first thing, I warned them to just do it and trust the PROCESS. Check your brains at the door. Don’t try to understand ANYTHING. Just do it. The ones who gave me a little faith got it quicker than the smarties who just…had…to…know. Welcome to the bottom of the class!

    I can almost hear God: “You really should stop trying to use your brain with Me. I only made it for breathing, eating…you know, the easy stuff. Let Me handle the rest. You don’t have a care in the world, if you just pay attention. So…whistle a happy tune, enjoy the scenery, and – above all else – let Daddy drive.”

    Reply

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