Monday, February 15, 2016

Set 8 Meeting 7: Inner Beauty

Set Eight – Meeting Seven Inner Beauty

This meeting happened to fall on Valentine's Day :)




Read blog post about Rebekah and Isaac:  

Examples from scripture of women who possessed inner beauty:  Esther, Ruth, Mary…how did the Lord use them for His glory.

Scripture References:

Psalm 139: 13 - 16
Proverbs 31: 10 - 31
Romans 8: 20 - 30
1 Cor. 6: 19 - 20
2 Cor. 2: 14 - 16
1 Peter 1: 24 - 25
1 Peter 3: 3 – 4

Main Concepts:

Inner Beauty is far, far more important to God than outward beauty!  Accepting the way God created you and not comparing yourself with others.

Having a meek and quiet spirit is not a sign of weakness, but actually of great strength.

It is important to avoid the focus of trying to “look more beautiful or comparing your appearance with others, but rather to focus on developing a meek and quiet spirit – which is precious in the sight of God!

We must expose and reject the lies of the world in this area.

There is no such thing as an “outward ideal.”  However there is such a thing as an inward ideal – being conformed to the image of Jesus Christ.

“For all flesh is as grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of grass.  The grass withereth, and the flower thereof falleth away:  But the word of the Lord endureth forever.”  1 Peter 1: 24 – 25


It is important to praise others for their godly character rather than their outward appearance.  When the focus is on the outard, it is easy for cmments to turn into flattery.  Flattery spreads a net for people’s feet (Prov. 29:5).  We ought to praise others for Christ-like character, because this encourages them in what is truly important.


Activities:

Watch video clip of Danna Gresh, co-author of Lies Young Women Believe and the Truth that Sets Them Free:


  

Hey girls, check out this Christian magazine I found called Crown of Beauty Magazine...

I found a great 30 Day "I Am Beautiful Challenge" on their site, and I encourage you to take it!














Set 8 - Meeting 6: Treating Others With Honor

Set Eight Meeting Six – Treating Others With Honor

Listen to CD

People in Scripture that showed honor to others (David to King Saul and Mephibosheth, John the Baptist to Jesus, Mary Magdalene to Jesus, Jesus to His Father.)

Tell about a time in your own life when you did not show proper etiquette (funny or serious) and what happened as a result.

Sword Drill:

Matthew 7:12a
Luke 10:30-37
Luke 14:8-10
Luke 14:12-14
Luke 17:12-19
John 13:35
Romans 12:13
Philippians 2:3-11
1 Peter 4:9

Main concepts:

Etiquette and manners are extremely important.  We are representing our Heavenly Father – we ought to behave in a way that is fitting for the daughters of a King!
True etiquette and gracious behavior come from developing genuine love and respect for others – not memorizing a list of etiquette rules.

Some may have good manners with the motivation to impress others or attract attention, but instead we should have the attitude of Christ – demonstrating that we think highly of others and esteem them as more important than ourselves.

One of the most important etiquette principles (especially related to Bright Lights) is learning to reach out to newcomers and make them feel welcome.

(Explain the importance of being aware of what is “culturally acceptable,” so as not to give offense to ones that you are trying to reach out to, or disciple for Christ.  Do some research and share examples of what various cultures consider proper manners to be.  Remind the girls that one day they may be missionaries – ambassadors for Christ in another culture, and it will be easier for them to be sensitive to new customs if they are in the habit of practicing good etiquette now.)

“And as ye would that men should do to you, do ye also to them likewise.”  Luke 6:31


 During our Tea Time...I gave each young lady a paper with Etiquette examples from around the world.  This made for some great conversations!


Etiquette in India:


Be cautious in giving a leather item as a gift. Since many Hindus are vegetarians, and part of a dead animal would definitely be an unsuitable gift.

It is not good manners to say 'thank you' at the end of the meal. This is considered as an inappropriate and impersonal gesture. However, it is good etiquette to show appreciation and invite your hosts out to dinner in the future.

It is considered good manners to arrive 15 to 30 minutes late to dinner at someone’s home.

Standing tall with your hands on your hips is perceived as aggressive.

Pointing with your finger is considered bad manners and rude.

Never point your feet at another person as feet are considered unclean.

Traditionally, Indian people use the left hand as part of their toilet routine. Consequently, the left hand is considered unclean, and you should only offer your right hand when greeting someone.

Touching - Public physical contact between men and women is far less acceptable in India than in other parts of the world.


Etiquette in Russia:


The typical greeting is a firm, almost bone-crushing handshake while maintaining direct eye contact and giving the appropriate greeting for  the time of day.

When female friends meet, they kiss on the cheek three times, starting with the left and then alternating.

Do not give a baby gift until after the baby is born. It is bad luck to do so sooner.

Russians often protest when they are offered a gift. Reply that it is a little something and offer the gift again and it will generally be accepted.

Arrive on time or no more than 15 minutes later than invited.

The oldest or most honored guest is served first.

It is polite to use bread to soak up gravy or sauce.

Expect a long period of socializing and getting-to-know-you conversation before business is discussed.

Leaving a small amount of food on your plate indicates that your hosts have provided ample hospitality.


Etiquette in Tonga:


Man greeting Man  – A handshake is the preferred form of greeting.  Handshakes are warm and usually linger a bit.

Tonga has become very conservative in terms of religion in the past few years. Thus, it is important that tourists respect this religious ardor. For instance, entire towns in Tonga shut down on Sunday. There is no transportation available, no restaurants to eat at. Most people can be seen walking to and from church and spending the day with their families. Tourists should be respectful of this. 

Also, since it is so religiously conservative, visitors should dress appropriately and not in too risque clothes.

If you are invited by a Tongan family to join them having a meal, be prepared to sit on the floor and to eat with your fingers. 

Prior to each meal somebody says a prayer. Watch your host and follow his actions.

Tongans like to have some fun with the tourists - if any story told to you seems not very plausible, you better ask another source!



Etiquette in Egypt:


Egyptians will always greet you with a smile and a gracious inquiry as to your health. Do the same, and for heaven sake, don't act superior.

It is acceptable for a woman to be kind to an Egyptian man, but be aware that being too friendly can give the wrong impression. Men should never flirt with an Egyptian woman.

When invited to a home, it’s normal to take your shoes off before entering the reception rooms. It is customary to take a gift: sweet pastries (or tea and sugar in rural areas) are always acceptable.

Egyptians are likely to feel very strongly about certain subjects – Palestine, Israel and Islam, for instance, and these should be treated diplomatically if they come up in conversation. Some Egyptians are keen to discuss them, others not, but carelessly expressed opinions, and particularly open contempt for religion, can cause serious offence.

Dining etiquette for eating with Muslims. Islam prohibits eating pork. Meat must be prepared halal. Do not eat in front of your Muslim colleagues, or invite them to join you for a meal, during the day during Ramadan.

Do not fill your plate full at first. It is better to return for more.

Men and women may be asked to dine separately.


Etiquette in Israel:


According to Jewish law it is forbidden for any Jewish man (i.e a boy over the age of thirteen) to touch a  woman - except his wife.  Similarly, it is forbidden for any woman to touch a man other than her own husband.  This law is mostly practiced in religious households only. If you have just met a religious person and are unsure of their level of observance, wait a moment.  If it is okay, the man or woman will extend their hand.

Israelis tend to speak quickly and loudly even in confined spaces.  This does not mean that they are yelling or annoyed.

Unlike in some conservative English speaking countries conversation with a stranger at the bus stop or on the bus or the train is quite common. There is hardly a topic that is off limits;  you may be scolded about your behavior or you may even be given some parental advice.

Israelis are very relaxed with time in social settings.  At a wedding or similar type  of function, showing up half an hour after the time specified on the invitation, is perfectly acceptable.  In fact, being late is almost expected.  The actual wedding ceremony usually takes place an hour after the arrival time indicated on the invitation.

You could arrive with a hostess gift of some kind when invited to someones home for a meal.  It could be a small gesture like a cake or chocolates.  You could also offer to prepare part of the meal; a salad or desert.

In Israel, men and women are considered equals.


Etiquette in South Africa:


The coloured and more traditional Afrikaans cultures consider their extended family to be almost as important as their nuclear family, while the English-speaking white community places more emphasis on the nuclear family.

The majority of the whites living in rural areas are Afrikaner farmers who are descended from the Calvinists. Their views on the world are sometimes narrow. At the same time they value human decency over materialism.

City dwellers live life in the fast lane, which affects their outlook

When dealing with foreigners, most South Africans shake hands while maintaining eye contact and smiling.

If you are invited to a South African's home, bring flowers, good quality chocolates, or a bottle of good South African wine to the hostess.

Arrive on time if invited to dinner.

Offer to help the hostess with the preparation or clearing up after a meal is served.

Do not interrupt a South African while they are speaking.


Etiquette in Poland:


Mr and Mrs plus the family name is an absolute requirement when introductions are made.

Always be on time, it is considered extreme bad manners and poor etiquette to keep people waiting

It is very important to show special consideration and care for the senior citizens of Poland.  Children are taught good manners and etiquette from an early age, to give up their seats for the elderly is just an accepted way of life.

If you are invited to a private home for dinner, be prepared to remove your shoes before entering (no holes in socks please!) it is usual to arrive around 8 pm and to stay until past midnight. It is considered to be polite to arrive about 15 minutes late to give the hostess time to prepare, but later than 15 minutes is considered bad manners and not good etiquette.

Wait for your host to start eating before you start.

Keep your knife in your right hand and your fork in the left at all times. While eating you should keep your wrists on the table. When you have finished eating, place the knife and fork parallel to each other at an angle across the right side of the plate. Crossing the knife and fork on your plate is a sign you have not yet finished your meal.

Hands in pockets is considered disrespectful and rude.


Etiquette in Jamaica:


Saying ‘please’, ‘thank you’ and ‘excuse me’ will go a long way in Jamaica; as such pleasantries and politeness are admired.

Until your Jamaican counterpart initiates the use of first names, always address people by using formal titles, such as Mr, Mrs, Dr, and suchlike. Moving too quickly to informalities may not always be appropriate and could be perceived as disrespectful.

In Jamaica, unless you are at a beach resort, you should avoid wearing revealing clothing. Shorts and miniskirts are not considered appropriate for women, so it is best to wear longer skirts and dresses

Always use your utensils to eat, as eating with your hands could be seen as rather crass. You should also try to finish everything that has been served up to you, as leaving large amounts of food could be seen as an indicator of your distaste.

Jamaicans tend to speak very quickly and may become quite animated.   They appreciate laughter and do so often and loudly. 

"Soon come" is a favorite saying.  Keep in mind it could mean 10 minutes or 2 hours or 2 days!  It's a good idea to be patient.


Jamaican men are somewhat aggressive and women can expect to hear men cat-calling to them frequently.

Set 8 - Meeting 5: Joyfulness!

Set Eight – Meeting Five:  Joyfulness

Listen to CD

Sword Drill
1 Chronicles 16:10
Nehemiah 8:10
Psalm 16:11
Psalm 32:11
Luke 10:20
John 15: 10 – 11
Romans 12:15
Galatians 5:22
Philippians 3, 4
1 Thess. 5:16
James 1: 2-4

Main Conepts
Joy is an attitude, not merely a feeling.  We can choose to have joy even when we find ourselves in circumstances that do not make us happy.

True joy can only come from Christ.
Joyfulness is not just a suggestion in Scripture – it is a command!

Joy is an important part of our testimony in this world.

Joy comes from obedience.

Additional Ideas

Symptoms and consequences of self-pity and how this might affect our testimony to others.

An attitude of gratefulness is key to finding joy.  Get your eyes off of yourself and onto God and others and watch your attitude change!

Is there a purpose to suffering?
James 1:2
2 Corinthians 4: 17-18
1 Peter 1: 6-9


Are you an energy ‘giver’, ‘waster’, or ‘taker’?

Thursday, December 24, 2015

Christmas Party!

Our Bright Lights year came to a close this last Sunday as we ended the year with a meeting on practical modesty and a Christmas party.  Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!




Set 8 – Meeting 4 Practical Modesty Suggestions

Listen to CD

Scripture:
Isaiah 3: 16 – 26
Matthew 6: 22 – 23
1 Cor. 10: 31
1 Cor. 11: 15
1 Thess. 5 : 21 – 22



Main Concepts:
Modesty is possible!  With a little creativity, we can change many outfits to make them modest.

It’s important to give thought to what we wear and seek to dress in a way that looks appropriate for our body-shape.  Just because someone else wears something doesn’t mean it is right, or that it will look nice on us!

Our appearance is more than just our clothing.  We should examine our jewelry, makeup, hair, and countenance as well.

Modest clothing does not have to look “frumpy” or old-fashioned, but can look nice and attractive.

“And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by Him.”  Colossians 3:17



Videos we watched:



Fashion Blog:

Oh Happy Heights

Activities:

Gift exchange! J





Tuesday, November 10, 2015

Royal Apparel - Part 1

Set Eight Meeting Two:  Royal Apparel – Part One


Stories of Samson and Delilah, David and Bathsheba, and Solomon and his many wives.  In each of their lives, their tragic downfall was largely due to the influence of women.  Instead, catch a vision of how you can be a powerful influence of encouragement to boys by testimonies of purity…Abigail and David.

Sword Drill

2 Cor. 5: 17 – 21

Romans 12:2

Ephesians 6:2

1 Thess. 4:4-6

1 Timothy 2:9

James 4:4

1 John 2:15

Main Concepts

Dress modestly…

Even though the Lord does not give us specific rules about how to dress, He does give us some important principles to follow.  He gave these to us for a reason – not to make our lives difficult, but because He loves us and wants us to focus our hearts on Him!

Do Not Copy the World…

The clothes we choose to wear are an outward sign of the condition of the our heart.  Since our outward appearance communicates so much, we need to be intentional about what we wear.  If we are truly seeking the Lord, it will be reflected in every area of our life, including clothing.

Do Not Defraud…

We need to be careful that we are not a stumbling block to others, but choose rather to encourage others and build them up.

Honor Your Father…

The promised blessing that comes from honoring your parents includes the “little things,” as well as the “big things.”

Remember that You are Representing Jesus Christ…

Our goal must not be to please ourselves, but to honor Christ and represent Him well.


“Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain; but a woman that feareth the Lord, she shall be praised.”  Proverbs 31:30


Activities

Divide into groups and create a princess dress out of paper and tulle, choosing one girl to “dress up”…afterwards discuss the creativity of each princess’s attire.

Work on Calendars if time allows…

Tea!











Saturday, October 17, 2015

What Should I Wear!

Bright Lights Set Eight – Meeting One:  What Should I Wear?

Listen to CD

Personal Testimonies of a time when you were too concerned (or not concerned enough) about what clothing you wore, and what happened as a result.  Here are some other testimony ideas:  times when your clothing choices were motivated by pride, fear, or insecurity, or how you’ve made the commitment to seek the Lord for His approval alone in what you wear.

Sword Drills

Psalm 45:13

1 Corinthians 6:20

1 Samuel 16:7

1 Timothy 2: 9-10

1 Peter 3: 1-7


Proverbs 31:30


Main Concepts

God looks first at our heart.  It is so important that we bring our desires under God’s authority, and have a heart that desires to seek and please Him.

One of the first things that people notice about us is the way we are dressed – we need to remember that we are representing the King of kings!

God will provide for us!  He adorns the lilies of the valley and He is faithful to provide for His daughters.

We should carefully evaluate what influences our clothing decisions and make sure that our motives are pleasing to the Lord.

“Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat?  Or, what shall we drink? Or, wherewithal shall we be clothed?  (For after all these things do the gentiles seek) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things.  But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.”  Matthew 6:31-33

Modesty Blogs:


Videos:




http://www.godtube.com/watch/?v=KLKZZWNX



Activity

Tea

Sunday, September 27, 2015

How To Make a Wise Comment

Kicking off another new year of Bright Lights!  Welcome back girls :)

Set Seven Meeting Six – How To Make a Wise Comment

Fellowship
Worship
Listen to CD

Acts 17: 16 – 34

Tell a story about a time when you said something foolish and later wished you had kept your mouth shut! 

Examine some situations in Scripture where Jesus wisely answered those who were trying to trick Him.  (Matthew 12:2….Mark 11:28….Luke 20:20, 28-33)

What are 3 good questions to ask ourselves before we speak:  Is it true?  Is it kind?  Is it necessary?

Our words consist not only of what we speak with our mouth, but include any written communication as well.  All of these truths regarding wise words apply to letters, e-mails, chatting, texting, tweeting, etc.

Wise comments are very relevant to sharing the gospel…let’s review that! J

Main Concepts:

Words are very powerful.  The have the power of life or death (Pr. 18:21).  We will give account for every idle word spoken (Mt. 12:36)

As ambassadors of Christ, we need to choose words that are meaningful, edifying, and profitable to others.

In order to be strong for the Lord in our youth, it is important that we learn to relate with others in a way that is respectable, thoughtful, and socially mature.

Learning good conversational skills is an essential part of shining our light brightly for the Lord.

The most important comments we can make are those which glorify the Lord and point others to Him.


“Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.”  Ephesians 4:29