the Lord reminded me of this verse recently and i thought it fit to share some of the things God was speaking to me :) so often we are quick to judge, quick to think our way is the best way, i know this is something i struggle with and the Lord has really been showing me i need to humble myself. romans 14:3 (above) paired with james 4:17 "So whoever knows the right thing to do and fails to do it, for him it is sin." show that it's important for us to submit to the convictions placed on our lives and not to judge when others do not seem to have the same convictions. it has happened recently and in the past that when mr. s and i were holding to our convictions to abstain from things etc, often there was just such of feeling of judgement that came.. feeling left out by friends because we didn't enjoy doing the same things they did, well more like didn't feel the liberty to do the things they were doing, or just some comments from people made that were making it seem like because they chose to be apart of something that that was the "better" way. and that isn't true. it can't be "better" if the people who are abstaining are doing so because of a conviction they have been given by God. now that doesn't mean what they're doing is wrong, but judging someone because they choose not to do something, i believe that is wrong. i will totally admit that sometimes i have wondered "why don't others share my conviction?" and in the end the Lord just reassures me that He will instruct all of His children in His time. it gives me peace to know that my only job is to be obedient to what the Lord has spoken, and to not be ashamed of the decisions i make based on these convictions. i will openly speak about what God has spoken to me, because i think most of what me and mr. snyder do has biblical support but in the end its God who will approve or deny a person. its really beautiful because it shows God's intimacy. that its not just a set of rules, but they are personalized and sometimes the rules change and vary. :) God is so good. i would write more boldly but i just don't feel peace about doing so at this time. so, whether you went out trick or treating, stayed home and watched a movie, or went to church, i hope you made your decisions based on your convictions and love for God :) in the end He is all the really matters. don't neglect that still small voice who tells you what is right and wrong. listen and obey in faith. 

with love,

mrs. s