Be still...and know that I am God

 

{photo credit goes to my sister Mary!}

 

  Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.--John 14:27

Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and will not be afraid; for the LORD GOD is my strength and my song, and he has become my salvation.--Isaiah 12:2

 

  On the evening of that day, the first day of the week, the doors being locked where the disciples were for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said to them, 

“Peace be with you."--John 20:19

 

 

The LORD make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; the LORD lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace.--Numbers 6:25-26

Learning to Love....

{photo credit}

It's easy to judge. It's easy to point fingers and say, "How dare you?!?". I know this all too well. I know how easy it is to allow yourself to fall into that "holier than thou" way of thinking. I am a friendly person, but I have the tendency to be critical. I have been guilty of talking about people behind their backs....of being two-faced at times.

Now, some might say that this is just part of being human. But I refuse to allow my human nature be an excuse for my sin. And that's what it is, it's sin. As ugly as that may sound, it's true. 

God has really convicted me of this. He has shown me how it's wrong to tread down this path, even if the person may deserve it (in your mind, anyway!). He has shown me my need to repent and begin living like Jesus.

As a Christian, I am called to love people as Jesus did. That means not judging them. That means loving them where they are in their lives. That means not focusing on the ugly parts of their lives.

This DOES NOT mean condoning the sin. This does not mean approving of sin that might be in that individuals life, but it does mean accepting a person as they are. It means that you realize that like you, they are not perfect. It means overcoming that Pharisee outlook. It means ridding yourself of the "Thank God I'm not like them" attitude. Because, guess what, you and I are sinners too! We are redeemed sinners, but sinners none the less. 

Once again, love and acceptance does not mean ignoring the reality of sin. We cannot do that, because if we disregard sin, we disregard our need of a Savior, and goodness knows we CANNOT do that. 

What we can do is surrender ourselves to God and tell Him to use us to touch others. Truly loving people means that we are allowing Jesus to lead us to people, love them, and testify His love to them.

Give me Your eyes for just one second

Give me Your eyes so I can see
Everything that I keep missing
Give me Your love for humanity
Give me Your arms for the broken-hearted
The ones that are far beyond my reach
Give me Your heart for the once forgotten
Give me Your eyes so I can see...

-Brandon Heath's "Give Me Your Eyes"

Always Remember...

This One's For the Girls...

Dear Girls,

I read "Lies Young Women Believe" several months ago, and it truly touched me. It blessed me in so many ways and made me realize that admist all the insecurities I'm facing, I'm not alone. I'm not the only girl feels lonely, or feels like there's something wrong with her cause she doesn't have a boyfriend. I'm not alone in thinking that I'm not good enough, that I need to try harder, perform better, and then people will love me more. I'm still dealing with a lot of issues, but it feels positiviely liberating to know there are other teen girls out there who are dealing with these exact same problems. I highliy reccomend this book to teenage girls. You will be blessed. Promise.

For more information on "Lies Young Women Believe", check out their blog by clicking  here. Also, please take a moment to watch this video. What authors Nancy and Danneh have to say is so true....something every teenage girl in America NEEDS to hear.

 

 

Emily



Here We Are...

Dear World,

Hi there! I’m sorry it’s been such an incredibly long time since you’ve heard from anyone here on V.O.T.I. Olivia and I are both still alive…just extremely busy. This summer has been rather crazy for both of us, and blogging has not been part of our schedules.

But here we are now…summer is over and fall schedules are in full swing. For many of us, that means SCHOOL! Yep, like it or not, it’s here. And as terrible as it may seem, it is indeed a necessary evil. You may not think you’ll ever need to know what an infinitive phrase is, or why in the world you need to learn algebra (and I’m with ya! :P), but as Christian students, we need to be giving each and every subject our all. History, Math (whatever kind you’re taking), English, Science, whatever it is you’re taking, give it your 100%! Why? Remember, we’re supposed to be doing ALL to the glory of God, and yes, that includes your school. That means not slacking. That means studying even when you don’t feel like it. That means paying attention in class. That means striving to do the best you can. Not so you can get a better grade than someone else. Not so you can feel good about yourself. Not so your parents will be proud (although that is always a nice thing!). But because you want to glorify God in all that you do. Bringing glory to God doesn’t mean going out and accomplishing some incredible feat, it means giving your all at whatever He has called you to do.

Always remember, peoples, you are where you are for a reason. God is not a God of chance. He has a purpose for your life. It’s your job to find it, live it and give God the praise for it. Go out and give that algebra test your all. God out and be a shining light amongst your fellow student. Go out and do something for the glory of your Father!

Love,

Emily

P.S-Also! Always remember the fabulous opportunity God has blessed us with to witness His truth to others! Live a life that points others to the Lord. Live in such a way that others see something different. Live a life that showcases Jesus Christ and his divine Truth!

“And I pray that they wills see, more of You and less of me! Lord I want my life to be a song You sing!”-Casting Crowns “Until the Whole World Hears”

Are Ya Comfy?

“If you're not in your comfort zone, then you're probably growing. Get comfortable with being uncomfortable.”—Caleb Grimm.

So where are you? You resting easy, or are you challenging yourself on a daily basis to rise above your level of comfort?  Maybe you want to start growing, but you’re not sure where to start.  Maybe you think you’re where you need to be and have no desire to leave your lil’ zone.  For both situations, I encourage you to PRAY! Take your thoughts to Jesus and ask Him to direct your thinking!  Ask Him where you can be growing, how you can grow and opportunities to grow.

Maybe you’re not comfortable working with kids….challenge yourself! Go and help out in a Sunday School class. VOlunteer in your church nursery. You may think you’re helping them out, but you’ll see growth in your own life. You’ll learn long suffering!

Maybe you don’t feel comfortable sharing your faith….challenge yourself! Start small by leaving tracts at dr. offices or resturaunts, and then start handing them out (if this freaks you out, just grab a friend! way easier to do scary things when yuu got a good buddy with ya!).

Maybe your unsure why you believe what you do. Maybe you’re scared you don’t know how to explain your beliefs….challenge yourself! Take a Christian Apologetics class! Get your hands on some good books (and your Bible, of course) and begin some soul searching.

Maybe you feel uncomfortable around senior citizens….challenge yourself! Find a nursing home in your area and volunteer. You don’t have to do anything major-just show up and spend some time with someone. Read aloud to them. Play a board game. Talk to them. Listen. It may be fairly scary at first, but keep in mind, they were once you. You will one day be them. Treat them as you hope someone will treat you when you come to this season in your life.

So go on! Get out of that comfort zone! Begin living a life that is constantly growing. Allow God to use you, and He will have you accomplishing great things!

"Can't Get Over You" Anthem Lights

        

Anthem Lights are on my "new favorites" list, and a LONG time ago, I posted Anthem Lights' song "Outta my Mind" you may recall. They are amazing!! This is their hit song "Can't Get Over You," and I thought that I liked it when I heard it on the radio, but now I LOVE it!!! =) God has gifted this group with not only great voices to bless other people, but also the ability to write amazing lyrics.
  God Bless them!!

~Olivia~

  
                                              

HAPPY MOTHERS DAY!!!! =)

 Happy Mothers Day to all those mothers out there!! Just a reminder to say happy mothers day to not only your mother, but any mothers that you come in contact with. The job that they do every day is something that only they can do. Let them know that they're special, and that they're thought of, and that you appreciate everything that they do for us on a daily basis. 

  

  ~ Mom, thank you for your relentless dedication to making sure that we get to where we need to be, that we have everything we need for school, and clothes; for driving us a half hour away almost every day for soccer, and basketball practice; for making us food everyday, for being my teacher, for being a mentor, and friend; for being inspiration, for all the shopping trips to make sure that we have what we need, and for everything else that you do on a daily basis that we can't. But most important, thank you for being a light, and imitator of Christ. Thank you for always pointing me in the right direction - towards Jesus Christ. Your example as a follower of Christ, a Godly wife, and a loving, caring mother is priceless, and I will cherish you always!! ~

Thank you!! Happy Mothers Day!!

~Olivia~

Ps. 37:1

Prayer...

Hey everyone,
  I was wondering if you could bless me by praying for me. On Saturday I go to take my SATs, and as you may know, it is a long, draining process that I'm not looking forward to. I'm trusting GOd, and I know that I'll probably do well, but its just the thought of having to be timed, being in a classroom with other students, and never having done that before that makes me nervous. Not to mention, as my dad said "No pressure or anything, Liv, but if you do well on your SATs, you will most likely get some scholarships that you will need for college." And yes, I need scholarships.
  So this is a big deal to me, and my family, so if you could pray for that, it would be very much appriciated!! Thanks guys!! =)

~Olivia~
Ps. 37:4

Praying for Opportunities!!...

WOW, its been awhile since I last posted anything. =( Sorry about that. 

   Ok, I just wanted to update you a bit of what my family and I will be up to the next month or so. My younger brothers, Collin (11), and Cian (9) play on on a Little League baseball team, and my dad is head coach for the next four years. Because of this, I am going to be keeping book, which I am rejoicing about because I love baseball, and working with the boys!! 

   This season my family is looking, and praying for opportunities to share Christ with the boys on the team, and their families. Please pray that we come across opportunities, and when they come that we would be bold enough to speak out for Christ. There are so many hurting families that need to hear the gospel, and need hope. And we as Christians have the hope, and peace that passes all understanding.

   So that is our mission throughout this baseball season. Again, please pray for my family as we interact with many families - that we would share the gospel with them, and impact them for Christ.

~Olivia~ 

"And He said unto them, 'Go therefore into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation. He who has believed, and been baptized shall be saved; but he who has disbelieved shall be condemned...'"  

Mark 16:15,16

I LUV Britt Nicole!! =)

Hey eveyone,
  Hope y'all had a good Easter!! Sorry I didn't get around to posting Happy Easter sooner.
  I love Britt Nicole and I am SUPER excited that her new album is out!! =) This is one of my favorites on the new album, and since y'all liked "All This Time" I thought that I would post this one for you!! BTW, there is a playlist on youtube if you want to listen to the whole CD!!
  This song says it all, and I can't really add to anything...not that I would want to. But if you have any thoughts about it, let me know...
  Have a good rest of the week!! =)

~Olivia~
Ps.37:4

Beautiful Katie!! =)

Hey everyone, 

  Friends are a huge part of our lives, and we need friends. God has given me the most amazing friend, Katie, and she means the world to me!! I don't know what I did without her before I met her, because she is everything that anyone could hope for in a friend!! 

  Yesterday, life took its tole on me, and I let it push me down to the ground. But that was before I got a phone call from Katie!! She stretched out her hand, and helped me up off the ground. She encouraged me in so many ways, and helped me put my focus back to where it needed to be!! Thanks Katie!! =) 

  Katie this is for you!! 

Kindness - you are a perfect picture of kindness even when I don't deserve it!!

Able - you are able to do anything that you put your mind to. DON"T EVER let anyone tell you can't!! =) 

Teacher - the things that you've taught me over the past few years are precious, and priceless. Thank you!!

Inspiration - you inspire me to be a better daughter, sister, and follower of Christ!!

Excellent - you're excellent at everything you do!! =) 

Katie, I love you dearly, and God is going to do great things through, and in you!! =) Never let anyone tell you that you're nothing, because God says you're golden in His eyes!! 

Love,

  ~Olivia~

Hebrews 11:1; Hebrews 12:1,2

Hebrews 11:1 - "Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen."

Hebrews 12:1,2 - "Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God."

So these are just a few of the verses that I've been reading in my quiet time. These verses particular have really stuck out to me, and stuck with me the past few days. I thought that I would share them with you, and I hope that they bless, and challenge you as much as they did me!! =)

~Olivia~

Tell me what you think...!!

Hey all, 

   So, I've been wondering....I have seen a ton of hits on the "He Said" post, but I don't know what you guys think of it. What does this song mean to you? What has God taught you through this song? And what are you doing in your own life that says, "I know God isn't going to give me more then I can take, and He'll NEVER let me go. So I'm gonna trust Him"? I want to know how God has been blessing you through this song!! Talk to me!! =)

~Olivia~

Opportunity

Hey there, Everyone!

Hope y'all are enjoying your day of worship and rest! :) Also hope that your day has been just as pretty as mine has! See, spring is in full swing here....and the weather is absolutely beautiful! So yeah, hope that y'all are having nice weather as well!

I wanted to share with y'all a fabulous opportunity! The Teenage LifeClub is sending out pro-life letters through the month of March. These letters are going to the Supreme Court and the White House. They are hoping for 1 million letters, and they need your help to make it possible! Please check out there blog for more details: http://www.theteenagelifeclub.blogspot.com/ .

Thank you! Have a wonderful day!

Emily

"Treasures" by Martha Snell Nicholson

  Love this poem, and its so true. It's a good reminder that I think we too often need. WAY too often I find myself in this place. But God, through His Word (and music), brings me back to Him, and says, "Hey I'm all you need. Delight in Me, and I will give you the desires of your heart. You can't find your desires, happiness, or peace anywhere else. I am ALL you need." And lately I've been finding that our in incredible ways!! 

One by one He took them from me,

All the things I valued most, 

until I was empty-handed;

Every glittering toy was lost. 

And I walked earths highways, grieving,

In my rags and poverty. 

Till I heard His voice inviting,

"Lift your empty hands to Me!" 

So I held my hand toward heaven, 

And He filled them up with a store

Of his own transcendent riches,

Till they could contain no more. 

And at last I comprehended

With my stupid mind and dull,

That God COULD not pour His riches

Into hands already full! 

~Olivia~ 
Ps. 37:4 
Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart." 

He Said (Feat. Chris August) - Group 1 Crew

  

    I love music, and often if I'm struggling to make a decision, or I'm in the middle of a trial, or just down about life, the Lord always speaks to me in the biggest ways through music...and yes, through His Word as well.

    I have been struggling with a decision about my summer. Last summer I went to work away from home for a good Christian family, and things didn't go well for me. I made some bad decisions, and my bosses wife and I didn't get along all that well. I wasn't expecting the family to ask me back, and I really didn't want to go back at all. But in January, the family asked me back. And they asked me back. AND they asked me back again. I felt really bad, and I kind of felt that I owed to to them for the trouble that I caused them last year. Plus I wanted to prove to myself that I could be on my own, and make wise decisions. My parents let me make the decision, but ultimately had the final say if he didn't feel at peace about it. So with a lot of prayer, consideration, and talks with my mom, and dad, I decided that I am going to go back. 

   Two of the songs that really spoke to me were "You Lead" by Jamie Grace, and this song, "He Said" by Gruop1Crew. It felt like God was standing right in front of me, and saying it to my face. I know now that last summer wasn't a mistake, and that God had me there for a reason. I still feel terrible about it, and a big part of me wishes that I hadn't gone because it would have saved me, especially me parents, a lot of pain. And still don't know if going back is what I want to do, and I am scared to death of going back. But if He doesn't want me there, then He'll pull me out of it, and if I go then it is His will. I'll take what I learned from last summer, apply it, and serve the people that I work for all for the glory of God.

    If you're listening to this song right now, and you're in the middle of a trouble or trial, I hope that you find hope in this song, and that God speaks to you. I know what it feels like to be confused, and alone, and in pain because of a past mistake. But remember what He said: "I won't give you more then you can take. And I might let you bend, but I won't let you break. I'll never ever let you go." 

~Olivia~

Update on Prayer Requests

  Ok, I have noticed that we have been getting a good number of hits on my "Prayer Request" post that I had posted quite a while ago. I am sorry that I completely forgot to update all of you on those two requests. In fact, I finally clicked the post because we were getting hits on it, and I forgot what is it was that we asked prayer for. 

  My friend, Elora, recovered quickly, and she was able to play the last few games of basketball this season. Thank you for your prayers for Elora...I know she appreciated it!! My other friend, Melissa, also recovered quickly to everyone's surprise. She missed some games, but again, she was able to play the last few games of the season. 

  Thanks again for your prayer everyone!! =)

~Olivia~

Trust in the Lord!!

 I was on Facebook, and my cousin posted a photo, and this is what is said:

   F - alse

         E - vidence 

          A - ppearing 

R - eal 

  Ps. 34:4 - "I sought the Lord, and He heard me, 

                  And delivered be from my fears.

I love this!! <3 

~Olivia~

Food for Thought...

I found this quote and I really like it. What do you think?

“It is better to be hated for what you are then to be loved for what you are not.”

   
You know, sometimes we try to change the way we look, the we talk, the way we walk, what we wear, and everything about us, and the way that God made us to try to fit in with others...to be part of the "cool" crowd. We think that because we are the way we are, people won't like us, and we have to try to be someone, or something else so that they will. Well, I have news for us: If the people that we call friends don't like us the way that God made us, and intended us to be; and if we have to change our image to fit in with the "cool" crowd, because they "like" us better that way, and it's easier, then it isn't worth changing for.

Hope this makes you think a bit!!

~Olivia~

Thanks for Your Help!

Hey Y'all!

Just wanted to say thank you to everyone who helped with this year's Voices of the Innocent project. Whether you sent a letter, prayed about V.O.T.I. or both, your support is greatly appreciated! But please keep in mind, we're not done yet! Let's keep on praying about these letters. Pray that God will use the letters to touch the hearts and lives of other people. Pray that the editors will feel compelled to publish the letters. Pray that God will lead people to read these letters. Pray that God will use these letters to change people's hearts and lives. Get my point people? Yeah. We need to pray! :)

Have a wonderful day....and remember....keep on praying!

--Emily--

You Lead - Jamie Grace

Hey everyone,
  So I was looking at our stats, and I observed that I have bee getting a lot of hits on my lyric post for the song. I thought that you guys would like to hear the whole song, so I posted it for you!! =) Enjoy!!

~Olivia~

Email Address

Here is the email address y'all can send your pro-life letter to: letters@usatoday.com.

Thanks!

Emily

Today!!!!

Hey everyone,

  TODAY IS THE DAY!!!! =) I know that you guys probably already know that, but I was SO excited about today, so I just wanted to announce it!! Hope that all of you are ready to send in your letters!! And for all of you who might have just found Voices of the Innocent, and haven't had time to think about letters, there is still time to be a voice. You can find all the information on our "Letter Guidelines", and "Example Letters" page. Help us be a voice!! 

~Olivia~

Tomorrow is the day!

So it's March 4. Do y'all know what that means? Yep! Tomorrow we're sending out our letters! Are you ready for it? Is your letter all ready to send off to USA TODAY? Hope so! Remember, if there's any way we can help you with your letter, just contact us!

Y'all have a wonderful day....and don't forget to be praying about tomorrow! Pray that God will use these letters for His good and that He receives all the glory and honor from any success we may have!

--Emily--

All This Time-Britt Nicole

Ok, so I accidentally deleted this video, so I'm just posting it again!!...Soryy bout that!! =)

~Olivia~

Building 429: "Where I Belong" Official Music - Video Take This World an...

   This is an AMAZING song!! I feel bad for the replay button, and I get goose bumps down my spine, and all over my body every time I listen to it!!
    I grew up in a Christian home, so there are some things that I just get used to hearing, and, honestly, sometimes they get old. One of them being the concept of Heaven. In my youth group one of our leaders asked if we were ready for Heaven. None of us raised our hands (to our shame). So he asked, "Why? Why aren't you guys ready? If Jesus were to come back right now, why wouldn't you be ready?" After discussion that night, and examining my own heart, I realized that there is still so much that I want to do, and accomplish. It is so hard for me in my flesh to let those things go. But after going over the end times in our youth group, thinking about it on my own, and hearing this song, I can honestly say now, that I can't wait for Heaven. And though it is still hard to imagine its wonderful splendor, and glory, and being in the presence of Almighty God, our creator, and though it's hard to think about leaving everything behind, I can't wait to finally be home, and to look on my Saviors face!!

Because of His grace,

~Olivia~

Watch Out, World!! =D

  Well its official: I got my permit yesterday!!!!! =) SO EXCITED!! I have driven both my dads Subaru, and out big 12 passenger van, and it didn't take long for me to realize which one I like driving more, or which one is more fun to drive. The van veers off more, and my mom was panicking the whole way home. I drove home from basketball practice last night with my dad, and bro in the Subaru, and I love driving it. And yeah, I like driving with my dad more, too. He was WAY more chill about it. Plus he said that I could go the speed limit, and my mom kept me under 50. 

  So yeah...I just thought that I would let y'all know that!! And don't worry, you guys don't have to stay off the road now...I'm actually a pretty good driver, so I'm told. =P

~Olivia~

1 Week

Hello Everyone, and Happy Monday!

Just wanted to remind y’all that we are down to 7 days before we send out our pro-life letters!

If you need help writing a letter, please feel free to contact us at voicesoftheinnocent@gmail.com .

God bless,

Emily

Frustrating.....Grrr =/

Well everyone, 

  I just wanted to let you know that I wasn't able to get my permit. =( No, I didn't fail. But my mom lost my social security card, and they needed it. Now I know my number, but they need the actual card. So, my mom had to jump through a whole bunch of hoops to get my new card, so it was really stressful. And that isn't all; I can't go to take my SATs March 10th because I have to get a photo ID (I can use my permit, but that isn't going to help me right now, either) and in order for me to get the photo ID, or permit I have to have a photo ID of some sort. =/ I should get my card in about week. Then I can get my permit, but my permit card won't come 'til 2 weeks after I take the test. I am so thankful for my mom, though, jumping through all these hoops to get my social security card. But needless to say, we are both stressed out about it. 

  So yeah, I just wanted to let y'all know because I asked you to pray for me as I took the test, and I didn't want to leave you hanging. Aren't I a good friend??!! ;)

  Well, gonna go.

~Olivia~ 

Literally...ALL AROUND THE WORLD!!!!!

  So, I have been keeping up with out stats and hits, and as of the past two days, there as has been a BOOM of new hits from places that have not come up before!! It's SO exciting to see, and so I wanted to share with y'all, and show you just where Voices of the Innocent has bee found.

This Month:

 United States - 471 

 Germany - 68

 Russia - 67 

 Norway - 35 

 Brazil - 31

 China - 30

 Ukraine - 26

 Poland - 24

 Israel - 23

 Netherlands - 16 

  Ok, do the math, and that is 826 hits this month alone!! That is more then we have ever had in a month, and there are still many other countries that have been hitting out blog but their stats didn't come up because they weren't in the top ten. 
  So I want to give a GREAT BIG THANK YOU to the world - Thank you for supporting Voices of the Innocent, for spreading the word, for praying, and being a voice!! I know that God has been using Voices of Innocent, and that makes me incredibly excited, and overjoyed!! This means SO much to Emily, and more importantly, I know that it is bring a warm, happy smile to our Lord and Savior's face!! =)

  Thanks again everyone!! 

~Olivia~


  

Could You Pray?

Hey All,

  I was just wondering if you could pray for me tomorrow as I go to take my drivers permit. I DON'T LIKE TESTS...at all, and I'm a bit nervous about it despite the fact that I have been told by all my friends that it is SO easy. I'm still nervous. So I would appreciate some prayer!! =)

Thanks, guys!! =)

~Olivia~

Casting Crowns - Just Another Birthday

LOVE this song, and LOVE this video!!!! =) Hope that y'all enjoy it as well!!

~Olivia~

Guest Post

I am so excited to be sharing this with y'all....Katie is one of my very dearest friends... I asked her a little while ago if she would write a guest post for V.O.T.I....hope y'all enjoy it as much I did!

 

 

Many times I've thought this very same thing.  "I'm not a legal adult.  What difference can I make?"

Well, I want to tell you that I was wrong.  We, as teenagers, and even children, have a lot of influence.  More than we realize.  Sometimes the smallest act can make a big difference.

So take your stand.  Write a letter against abortion.  It could be just the thing to convince a voting adult.  Let's save the unborn children together, because they're worth fighting for.  Be the voice of an innocent baby.

Katie

Opportunity

Happy Saturday Everyone! ;)

So I was looking at the blog’s stats last night, and wow! God has really blessed us with readers from literally all around the world! It is mind boggling to me that God is allowing us to reach out to people from all over this planet. What a blessing!

As I was reading the stats last night, God really impressed on my heart that I have an opportunity right here at my fingertips! You see, I’ve been praying that God would shine through my life and allow people to see Him in me. This blog is the perfect opportunity to shine for Jesus. I have the chance to witness to people right here on this blog! What an opportunity!

I hope that everyone has a fabulous weekend!

Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

Matthew 5:16

P.S: Please don’t forget-March 5 is our sendout date! It’s coming up quickly, so let’s start working on those letters!

Jamie Grace "Lead Me"

 "You lead, I'll follow, Your hands hold my tomorrow,
Your grip, Your grace, You know the way,
You guide me tenderly,
When you lead, I'll follow,
Just light the way and I'll go,
Cause I know what you got for me is more than I can see,
So lead me on, on, on and on,
Just lead me on, on, on and on."

~Olivia~ 

The Greatest Love Story Ever Told....

Greater LOVE hath no man than this, that a man

lay down his life for his friends.

John 15:13

What's today about? Are you living for the chocolate-the flowers? Maybe you're hoping for a sweet card from the one you love most, or maybe some other nice gift. I love Valentine's Day and what it means, but peoples, we MUST remember what love is! It's not a dozen roses, it's not a box of candy. Love is Jesus. Love is the cross. Love is the Salvation God provided when He allowed men to nail Him to a tree. Love is Jesus taking my sin away and bearing God's wrath for them. Love is His nail-pierced hands, His open arms that invite the sinner to repent and live a new life!

Isn't love beautiful?

Olivia's Edited Letter

 Hey everyone,

  This is my edited letter that I am going to be sending in to USA Today.. I have a problem, however. I have about 30 words over the limit. I looked up the limit USA Today has for submitted articles, and articles with a max of 300 words has the best chance of being published. I have gone over my letter many times, and can't figure out what I can cut out, so if you have any tips for me, I would very much so appreciate it!! =) Thanks!!

~Olivia~

  Abortion –a harsh and cruel practice accepted as the norm today-kills more than 42 million babies worldwide and 1.37 alone in the US every year.  It has become a massacre of innocent babies that are living in the womb; God created these precious children with a purpose and it is not anyone’s right to take that life. There is neither justification, nor excuse to kill a child in the womb. 
  Many women think that that baby inside them isn’t alive. This in and of itself is sad. The fact that some people actually believe this makes me angry. Think about it. If brain activity is  a sign of life, why is it that people consider a baby in the womb dead when the baby has brain activity after just a few weeks of development. 
   Hosea 12:3 says, "And he took his brother by the heel in the womb, and by his strength he had power with God." I love this verse because it clearly shows that the baby was alive in the womb.
   What strikes me is when teenage girls get unwanted pregnancies they turn to abortion because they think that they have no other choice: "I'm too young," "What will everyone think of me," "I didn't want this to happen," or "I didn't mean for this to happen." If this is the case, why did they put themselves in the position to get pregnant in the first place?
   Birth defects are often a reason for an abortion as well. How can anyone love that baby any less just because of a birth defect? He is still a human being, and is still created by God, who has a special plan and purpose for his life.
   Just remember, you have to live with the decision to kill your own baby. Before you take your child’s life, ask yourself this question: Can I live with this decision for the rest of my life?

 Written by: Olivia J. Bresnahan (16)

http://voicesoftheinnocent.blogspot.com/

LEGAL Homicide

This is an essay that I had to write for an English class....feedback is welcome! :)

-Emily- 

                                         Legal Homicide        

     Thirty-nine years ago, America made abortion legal. 1973 was the beginning of American acceptance of this horrific procedure. Abortion and murder both involve the destruction of human life, however, the former, is considered perfectly legal. Many Americans consider abortion to be acceptable because they believe the unborn child is not alive. They believe the baby in the womb is nothing more than a clump of cells. This is not true. The baby inside his mother’s womb is most certainly alive. Abortion is murder because the baby is more than a fetus: he is a person. Every time an abortion takes place, a murder is committed.      

      An unborn child exhibits life from conception. One of the most obvious signs of life the baby portrays is growth. The moment a baby comes into existence, he begins to grow. After a mere 4 weeks of life, the baby’s backbone, arms and legs, and sensory organs are beginning to form (Turner and Rhodes). During the next eight months, the baby continues to grow as his body develops and prepares for birth. Growth is an obvious sign of life since non-living organisms do not grow. Based on this evidence, one is able to conclude the unborn child is indeed alive.

     Yet another sign of life the unborn child displays is the need for nutrition. Just like any other human being, the unborn child needs proper nutrition in order to develop properly. During her pregnancy, the expectant mother is advised to “consume one extra serving of each of the food groups” and to “drink more water, obtain more iron…. and lower her consumption of caffeine, sugar and sodium” (Turner). These nutritional guidelines are very important to follow because the mother’s eating habits affect the baby’s nutrition. If the baby was not alive, he would not have any nutritional needs, and therefore, the pregnant woman could eat as she wanted to without affecting her child.

     “All living things respond to stimuli in their environment” (“Characteristics of Life”).  This characteristic of life is seen in clearly in the unborn child. A baby in the womb can respond “to the stimulus that surrounds them including light and sound” (Pugh). Non-living organisms are not at all aware of what is happening around them, and therefore do not respond to their environment.  The baby in the womb is alive and therefore can and will respond to his environment.  

     There are people who believe abortion is a perfectly legitimate practice. They do not believe the child in the womb is alive. They believe the unborn baby to be nothing more than a pile of cells. “As a Biologist, I want to note that a 'baby in a womb' only begins to feel and to think after 12 weeks in the mother's womb. Before this period it is only a pile of cells, if you do a abortion in this period, you only kill a few cells” (Slick).  This philosophy is completely wrong. Even before reaching 12 weeks, the baby is indeed alive. He has a heartbeat. He has detectable brain waves. He can hear. He has functioning organs. He can move (“Fetal Development From Conception to Birth”). He is alive. He is a person. Terminating the pregnancy would be killing the baby. Aborting the child would be murder.

     No matter how much a person may try to avoid the truth, it is undeniable that the unborn child is indeed alive.  Scientific facts prove this. No matter how much man may fight this, it is true. The child in the womb is a human being.  Abortion is murder because the unborn child is not a fetus: he is a baby.  Abortion is murder because the unborn baby is alive. Abortion is murder because the baby is a person. 

 

                                       

Works Cited:

"Characteristics of Life." Astrobiology. Web. <http://library.thinkquest.org/C003763/index.php?page=origin06>.

"Fetal Development -- From Conception to Birth." National Right to Life. Web. 01 Feb. 2012. <http://www.nrlc.org/abortion/facts/fetaldevelopment.html>.

Pugh, Rebecca. "Essay on the Unborn Baby." Mountainbirth. Web. <http://www.mountainbirth.com/downloads/essay_on_the_unborn_child.pdf>.

Slick, Matt. "A Biologist Says the Baby in the Womb Is a Pile of Cells | Christian Apologetics and Research Ministry." CARM - Christian Apologetics and Research Ministry. Web. 01 Feb. 2012. <http://carm.org/biologist-baby-pile-of-cells>.

Turner, Anna S., and David Rhodes. Health for Christian Schools. Greenville: Bob Jones UP, 1999. Print

Turner, Anna S. Family Life Skills for Christian Schools. Greenville, SC: BJU, 2004. Print.

My cousin, Isaiah. =)

Hey everyone,

  Wednesday night at church I was frantically looking for some lesson sheets that me mom sent me to look for in our van, because she had to give them to my youth group leader, and I couldn't one of them, so I was a bit frustrated. My 6 year old cousin, Isaiah, came up to me with my back turned, "Livvy, Livvy...Livvy, you have to see this!" In my frustration, and to my shame, I replied, "Isaiah, I'm busy right now. Wait a minute."

  When I finally found the lessons, I turned around to see that Isaiah was still standing there with hands over his baseball cap that he was wearing. Smiling from ear to ear he took his hands away from his cap. Surprised, I saw his new New York Giants hat. "Oh Isaiah, I love your hat!!" I told him. He gave me a hug, and said, "I'm ready for the Super Bowl now!!" His mother told me later that night that the first thing that he said when she showed it to him was "I have to show Livvy! I can't wait to show her!"

  When I got home from church, I was thinking about it, and what I said before I saw his hat. He was so excited to show me his hat, and there I was in my frustration, snapping at him because I couldn't find some papers. It also made me think about the fact that, although they might not say anything, little ones do watch me, and observe my interests, and see what makes me excited. Isaiah knew that I would get excited to see that he had a Giants hat on because he knows that I love the Giants, and the New York Mets, and I love sports in general!!

  My point is that kids watch their older sibling, cousins, or friends, and you can't control how they will take the influence, or what they will do in the future because of the influence. But you can control what kind of influence you have on them. I don't know about you, but the fact that I have all my sibling, and cousins (I am the oldest kid in our family) it make me want to follow God more, and do better in my walk because I don't want to lead them astray. And it won't always be easy, and there will be times that I mess up, and fail, but they will always be watching the way you handle your failures. I want to be able to say to my 6 year old cousin, Isaiah, "Follow me, because I follow Christ."

~Olivia~

1Corinthians 11:1

"Follow my example as I follow the example of Christ." 

P.S.-- GO GIANTS!!!!! =)

Be yourself!! =)

  I was reading about the band, Anthem Lights, on their website, and one of the band members (I don't remember which one) had a bit of trouble with peer pressure growing up. He went on to say that the best advise that he remembers his parents giving him was "It's only cool if you do it." If you are struggling with peer pressure, I hope that this speaks to you. The you that God loves, and died for is the you that isn't pressured to do what other people do just because they're cool, and it looks good. Be yourself!! =)

~Olivia~

A Quote from Emily Dickinson

"If I can stop one heart from breaking,

I shall not live in vain;

If I can ease one life from aching,

Or cool one pain,

Or help one fainting Robin

To his nest again,

I shall not live in vain." 

~Olivia~

Anthem Lights - "Outta My Mind" (live edit)

                                                       

Hey, this is a great song!! One of my favorites!! =) I am going to see Anthem Lights on the 22nd of March with the Newsboys, so I am SO excited about that!! 

Enjoy!! =)

~Olivia~

Children ARE a blessing from the Lord.

A friend shared this picture with me....so thankful that there are parents out there who realize the sanctity of life and realize that children are a gift from God!



-Emily-

Words of Encouragement.....from Olivia

Hey,
  I was talking to a friend, and we were talking about the future...college, summer jobs, and everything that goes along with growing up, making decisions on our own, and having more responsibilities. She was saying that she was confused, and didn't know what she was going to do, and she thought that she did, AND now she doesn't so...NOW WHAT?? She said that she could do only ONE thing-pray to God, and ask for guidance, and she knew that is she did this, she would feel at peace.
  I have been in this this same situation...many times. I know the feeling, and it isn't a good one. In fact, it is a bit stressful. And no one likes to feel stressed (if you know someone that does, let me know!!). As Christians, it is a great comfort to know that we don't have to worry about our futures, and that He is in control of everything. If we were to die in two minutes, or tomorrow, or in a week, or years down the road, we don't have to worry about it, because it is God's will, and He holds the universe in His hands. If everything that we had ever wanted to do with out lives turned out to be the opposite of what God want, and he leads you somewhere else, it doesn't matter, because God has a bigger plan, and a better plan that is going to be perfect, and amazing beyond our comprehension.
  If you are in that place today - the kind of place that my friend, and I were at not too long ago, I am going to give you the best advise that anyone can give you. Go to the Lord in prayer, trust that He can do bigger things then you could ever imagine, and leave everything at His feet. And, as my friend Brandon (the same Brandon that I posted about a few days ago) said to me a couple weeks ago, "have the mind set that you want what God wants", tell Him that, and He will give the peace that passes all understanding. But in order for Him to give you that peace, you really have to mean it in your heart.....you have to leave, literally, EVERYTHING at His feet, and let Him be in control. If you do that, you WILL have peace, and God will bless you.
  I hope that this is an encouragement to you, and that it is a reminder of our great God, and what He can do!! =)


Because of His grace,

~Olivia~

Philippians 4:6,7
"Be anxious for nothing,but in all things, by prayer, and supplication, make your requests know to God. And the peace of God that passes all understanding will guard your hearts, and minds in Christ Jesus."

A Poem....by Emily :)

Life

So fragile, so frail.

No security-

No promises.

Sometimes unreal…

Too much to bear on my own

Am I alone?

Do I walk the path of darkness by myself?

No…

God

Promises His care

Promises His love;

In a dark world, He is hope

He is stability

He is joy

He is peace

He is light.

When the world is falling apart,

When I fall down and cannot get up,

He is there to hold me, to catch me, to lift me up again.

In times of trouble, in times of pain

His gentle touch is peace.

Life

is pain

God

is peace

Always.

"You Can Have Me" by Sidewalk Prophets

"When did love become unmoving?

When did love become unconsuming?

Forgetting what the world has told me,

Father of love, You can have me,

You can have me."

LOVE this song!! =) If you get a chance look it up on youtube...it's really good!! 

~Olivia~

Prayer Reguest...

   I have a prayer request that I was hoping that y'all would pray for!! My friend, Elora, got in a car accident on Saturday, and they thought that she had a few broken ribs, but it turned out that they were only bruised. So that is a praise, but she hasn't been coming to school because she is really sore. Just pray that she will recover quickly, and that she wouldn't be in too much pain.

   And one other thing...me other friend, Melissa, tore her acl playing basketball. This happened about 2 weeks ago, and she is still in some pain, and isn't healing as fast as they thought that she would. She is pretty frustrated, because now she can't play basketball, and so please just pray that the pain will subside, and that she would heal faster.

   Thanks for your guys' prayers...I know that they would appreciate them greatly!! =)

~Olivia~

Date Change!!!

Just wanted to let everyone know that we are pushing our send out date back to March 5, 2012. This will give us more time to spread the word about Voices of the Innocent. Also, if you are just now learning about this project, I’m hoping it will give you enough time to write and edit your pro-life letter.

Thanks! Y’all have a wonderful day!

-Emily-

Just a good reminder...

My friend, Brandon, gave me a little reminder just the other day, and it really encouraged me!! =) Just thought that I would share it with you:

Everyday is just another reminder that I can't do it without Him [Jesus Christ]!!

~Olivia~

Psalm 37:4

  Delight yourself in the Lord,
  And He will give you the desires of your heart. 




I hope that this verse encourages you!! It is one of my favorites, and it encourages me every day!! =)  If you have favorite verses that encourages you, and you would like to encourage others, please share!! 


~Olivia~

February 14 is approaching quickly!

Hey there Everyone!

Hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas and New Year! It's hard to believe that the holiday season is over, and that we are now in 2012. Where does time go? Pretty soon, February 14 will bere....and I hope that when it does come, you will be sending a pro-life letter to USA TODAY. Have you prayed about sending a letter? I hope so! I really hope that God will lead enough people to be part of this so that we can leave an impression on the newspaper's staff and readers.

I have a challenge for y'all. I'm asking each and everyone of you who is reading this post to tell 2 friends about Voices of the Innocent and our mission. Give them our blog link. Tell them about our Facebook page. Ask them to write a letter. Then, ask them to tell 2 of their friends about V.O.T.I and have their friends tell 2 of their friends...see where I'm going with this? Think of all the people we could reach if we did! Please consider accepting this challenge...and if you do, please let me know! Feel free to comment or email us (voicesoftheinnocent@gmail.com).

Y'all have a wonderful day!

Emily