ABC Women's Ministry

Are you turning into a Pillar of Salt?

2012-01-06T14:50:00.004-05:00

I am reading the Bible through chronologically this year. My goal is to spend time with God each morning and then talk to Him throughout my day. This morning I read the story of Lot's wife in Genesis 19. Lot and his family lived in the wicked city of Sodom. God sent angels down to bring Lot out of the city before He destroyed them.

In Genesis 19:26, Lot's wife looked back at the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah and she turned into a pillar of salt. The angel had told Lot and his family to not look back as they were escaping the wicked city. But Lot's wife looked back at what she was leaving. Lot and his daughters escaped to safety.

What are you looking back at? A new year has begun. Is there something holding you back, chaining you to the past? Cry out to the Lord and He will hear your cry. "He sent forth His Word and healed them." Psalm 107:20. It is time to move forward. Spend time with God in His Word, "For the Word of God is full of living power." Hebrews 4:12.

Make a resolution to look to God this year. "Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek His will in all you do, and He will show you which path to take." Proverbs 3:5-6. My prayer for each of you is that you will put your faith in God through Jesus Christ and that you will soar like an eagle in 2012 and keep looking to God and moving forward.

In Christ Love,
Melody Merritt

Countdown to Christmas

2011-12-21T12:59:00.002-05:00

Are you ready for Christmas? seems to be the most important question this week. I am ready in my heart to celebrate my Savior's birth. I still have things to check off my list, but I realized today that my heart is what matters. I hope and pray that each of you reach this same conclusion. My prayer for all of us is that we don't miss the baby that will grow up into the man that goes to the cross for you and me. Take time to give Jesus Christ a gift this week.

In Christ,
Melody

Bible Studies for Women

2011-12-21T12:28:00.001-05:00

Amplify for Women

Come join other women as we study God’s Word together and grow to be women of Faith. You will get equipped and encouraged though our Winter/Spring studies. Join us Wednesday nights starting January 4, 2012 at 6:30pm in Room 211. This time will be facilitated by Melody Merritt. For more information, contact melody@apexbaptist.org.

Intimacy with God
Establishing a Vibrant Quiet Time and Prayer Time Bible Study Workbook
Foundational Study: Starting with the basics, this study teaches you how to see, hear, and talk to Jesus in your everyday life and circumstances.
KNOWING GOD and knowing about God are two totally different things…
Are you satisfied knowing God as a mere acquaintance?
Is He perhaps your Sunday obligation?
Do you yearn to know Him, to walk and talk with Him daily?
God loves you and is passionate about you! He desires more than anything to have a meaningful love relationship with you.
We can have a saved soul, yet live a wasted life… Life finds meaning and purpose when we know our Creator…

Living Free: Learning to Pray God’s Word

This study combines key concepts from Breaking Free, along with prayer practices taught in Praying God’s Word — for a more in-depth look at Christian freedom.
We will learn what it means to pray Scripture, to live in freedom, and walk close to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Apples of Gold

2011-12-21T12:16:00.003-05:00

Apples of Gold

Apples of Gold is a women’s mentoring program. This seven week Bible study is based on Titus 2:3-5 and Proverbs 25:11 “A word aptly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver.” Join us each week as we learn meal preparation and hospitality tips, followed by lessons on Kindness, Loving Your Husband, Loving Your Children, Submission, Purity and Hospitality. There will be a different teaching mentor each week. After the group lesson we enjoy a meal together with further small group discussion of that week’s topic. You will be pampered and nurtured as you learn God’s Word. This study fills up quickly and is limited to 15 participants; please sign up by January 8, 2012.

Dates: Thursdays, January 12 – February 23, 2012

Time: 6:30-9:00 PM

Location: Home of Jill Zawierucha, 100 Highfield Avenue, Cary, NC 27519

Cost: $45.00 includes the book and seven meals
(Make checks payable to Apex Baptist, put “Apples of Gold” in memo line)

Contact: Jill Zawierucha at mitijill@bellsouth.net or 303-8987

A New Look!

2011-12-06T14:30:00.002-05:00

Well, Ladies, it has been a whole year since I have updated the blog. It has not been that I have not wanted to. Time just always seems to fly by. As I looked at the new updated website at Apex Baptist today, I thought today is the day to just do it. So here I am taking a moment to share a word of encouragement with you.

Do you get overwhelmed when someone asks, "Can you believe it is almost Christmas?" Is it hard for you to find Joy in the midst of all the busyness? And to go along with the busyness, it seems the distractions multiply as tempers flare and peace goes out the window. I found myself in this same boat.

Thank the Lord that our Joy and Peace do not come from this world, "...for the Joy of the Lord is my strength!" (Nehemiah 8: 10b) I just have to take time to be still (Psalm 46:10) and know my Savior whose birthday I am celebrating. Take a few moments to sit and reflect on why we celebrate Christmas.

It is the time that we celebrate the birth of our Savior. He left the glory of heaven and came to this earth. He took on human form knowing He would die on the cross. Such a love is more than I can comprehend. But I love Him because He first loved me. Hallelujah! Joy to the world our Savior has come! "So the Word became human and made His home among us. He was full of unfailing love and faithfulness. And we have seen His glory, the glory of the Father's One and Only Son." (John 1:14)

Don't let Christmas come and go without giving a gift to your Savior. I think the best gift of all is ourself. Jesus Christ came to bring us into right relationship with His Father God. "You will show me the way of life, granting me the joy of Your Presence and the pleasures of living with You forever." (Psalm 16:11)

My prayer for each of you today is that you find your Joy in Jesus Christ. "yet I will rejoice in the Lord! I will be joyful in the God of my salvation! The Sovereign Lord is my Strength! He makes me as surefooted as a deer, able to tread upon the heights." (Habakkuk 3:18-19)

Blessings,
Melody Merritt

Preparing for JOY...Putting Jesus Christ First!

2010-12-05T16:18:00.002-05:00

Ladies,

Have you found your JOY this Christmas? Are you still searching for it? Is it lost in the hustle and bustle? I would like to give you three ways to keep your joy and focus on Jesus Christ this season.

1) Prayer: Spend time talking to God and learn to listen to His voice. Philippians 4:6-7 states, "Don't worry about anything, instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank Him for all He has done. Then you will experience God's peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus." and I Thessalonians 5:17 says "Never stop praying." Cultivate a mind that talks to God and then sits quietly and listens for Him to speak.

2) Praise: 1 Chronicles 16:34 "Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good. His faithful love endures forever." In 2 Chronicles 20 we read about King Jehoshaphat of Judah who learned of 3 vast armies coming to do battle against his nation. He took this to God in prayer, the word from the Lord in vs.15 was do not be afraid, the battle belongs to the Lord and in vs.21 "Give thanks to the Lord", at the very moment they started praising God, the armies started fighting each other. God won the victory for them. They praised God and saw the victory. Give thanks to God. Our gratitude makes our theology real and practical every day. Cultivate a heart of praise and thanksgiving.

3)Practice: Count your blessings. Bring your requests to God in prayer. Praise God for His Presence and Power at work in your life. Trust God in the midst of your circumstances. Keep your eyes on Jesus Christ not the obstacles. Your God is bigger than any obstacle. We serve a BIG GOD!! Philippians 4:8 says for us to "Fix our thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise."

Persevere in the practice of prayer, praise and practice. Put Jesus Christ first and Jesus will fill you with JOY! This would be the greatest gift you could give to Jesus Christ for His birthday, the gift of yourself and time with Him.

"The Lord is my strength and shield. I trust Him with all my heart. He helps me, and my heart is filled with joy. I bust out in songs of thanksgiving."
Psalm 28:7

"Don't be afraid, for I am with you. Don't be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with My victorious right hand."
Isaiah 41;10

In Christ Love,
Melody

Go deep with God!

2010-11-15T15:32:00.002-05:00

Hi Ladies,

Do you sometimes see other women going deeper with God, excited about their faith no matter what is going on in their lives, and feel jealous? You don't have to be jealous. You can go deeper with God too! It is not just for a few women or men. This deep relationship with God is for everyone.

In I Corinthians 2:9-10, "That is what the Scriptures mean when they say, 'No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love Him.' But it was to us that God revealed these things by His Spirit. For His Spirit searches out everything and shows us God's deep secrets."

Go deep with God. Break away from the shore and go deeper. What do you need to let go of to allow God to do His work in you? There are hard times and challenges each day. First PRAY, talk to God honestly and thankfully and listen to God. Then dig into His Word and find out the Truth of who God is. His Word is your sword and His love letter to you. God's Word sets us free. Trust God, He is in control. Hear God's message to you. Continue to praise God daily. "The Sovereign Lord is my strength!" Habakkuk 3:19. "Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! His faithful love endures forever. Has the Lord redeemed you? Then speak out! Tell others He has redeemed you from your enemies." Psalm 107:1-2. Receive God's Truth to you. Hang onto the hope that will not fail.

My surrender plus God's Holy Spirit is enough. "Taste and see that the Lord is good. Oh, the joys of those who take refuge in Him!...The Lord hears His people when they call to Him for help." Psalm 34:5, 17. Our strength comes from a deep relationship with God. Graduate from spoon feeding. Go deeper with God. Get radical. Trust God. He will not let you down.

This is my prayer for the ladies of Apex Baptist Church. That you will jump into the deep waters and go deeper. Hallelujah!!

In Christ Love,
Melody

Security

2010-07-29T16:38:00.002-04:00

Ladies,

I hope you have read some of the blogs about being a SECURE Woman in Jesus Christ. A Secure Woman is Saved from Herself, Entitled to Truth, Clothed with Intention, Upended by Grace, Rebounded by Love, and Exceptional in Life. What will you do with this?

Who or what will you look to for Security? The world can not give you security. Whatever the world offers only makes you want more. Another person can not meet all your needs. They will let you down at some point. The only One who can give you security is Jesus Christ. He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No one comes to the Father except through Him. Take Jesus at His Word and trust Him. He will deliver you from bondage and insecurity.

Victory or Defeat resides in the mind. Let the Holy Spirit transform your mind with the Word of God. Empty out the junk and put off the old. Put on the new in Jesus Christ. Fill your mind with the Word. And stand on the promises in God's Word. Don't immerce yourself in religious life. Take God at His Word and immerce yourself in a relationship with the One who will never let you down, Jesus Christ.

I pray that each of you have a blessed week drawing close to Him and say so long to insecurity.

In Christ Love,
Melody Merritt

Exceptional in Life

2010-07-05T20:30:00.002-04:00

Hi Ladies,

I hope that each of you had a wonderful 4th of July and celebrated the freedom that we have in our country. And most importantly that you were able to celebrate your freedom in Christ Jesus as a secure woman. Say so long to your insecurities and live in security.

Over the last few months we have talked about what a secure woman is.

A Secure Woman is...
Saved from Herself
Entitled to Truth
Clothed with Intention
Upended by Grace
Rebounded by Love
Exceptional in Life

Today we talk about the last e: Exceptional in Life. We all have a need for significance, to feel special, to feel needed. As a child of God, a daughter of the King we are called to be different. God has a purpose for each of our lives. "For we are God's masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things He planned for us long ago." Ephesians 2:10. We can only have this new life by accepting Jesus Christ as Savior. Sin separates us from a holy God. Jesus came and died on the cross to save us from our sins. Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you shall be saved.

Without Jesus we can't live this exceptional life. Without Jesus we would be just like everyone else. Be exceptional in Christ Jesus. Let Christ overrun you, not the cultural of today. Determine to put off the old nature and "put on your new nature, created to be like God - truly righteous and holy." Ephesians 4:24. "This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!" 2 Corinthians 5:17.

Choose to be exceptional in life. Bring fame to the name of Jesus Christ. Take God at His Word. Read The Word, Believe the Word, and Live the Word. God knew what He was doing when He created you woman. Be Exceptional in Life. Live a secure life in Jesus Christ.

In Christ Love,
Melody Merritt

Rebounded by Love

2010-06-20T15:20:00.002-04:00

Ladies,

Have you been Upended by Grace this week? I hope so. You can take God at His Word and believe that He extends His Grace to you as His dearly loved child. Jesus Christ paid the price at the cross. Believe and accept that you are His dearly loved child Rebound in His Love and live as a Secure Woman of God.

Remember that A Secure Woman is...
Saved from Herself
Entitled to Truth
Clothed with Intention
Upended by Grace
Rebounded by Love
Exceptional in Life

Today we are going to talk about being Rebounded by Love and what this means to you and me. Everything comes back to love. "For God loved the world so much that He gave His one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish, but have eternal life." John 3:16 To live as a secure woman of God we have to believe that God loves us and that we are forgiven and that God extends His grace to us. When we believe this, we can rebound and extend love, forgiveness, and grace to other people.

If you are living in insecurity, and your heart is calloused and hardened, fall at the feet of Jesus and believe. Believe that He died for your sins, that He loves you, and wants to bring healing in your heart. Believe and accept that you are loved unwaverinly as God's dearly loved chilc and let His love permeate your life and change you, then let this rebound in you to extend to others.

My prayer for each of you is that "your hearts will be flooded with light so that you can understand the confident hope He has given to those He called and that you will live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ." Ephesians 1:18 and 5:1 So let your heart be flooded with love and let it Rebound in your life to others.

In Christ Love,
Melody Merritt

Upended by Grace

2010-06-02T14:10:00.002-04:00

Hi Ladies,

I am praying that each of you are looking to God and living out His calling on your life. We are meant to live in security not doubt and confusion.

Remember that A Secure Woman is...
Saved from Herself
Entitled to Truth
Clothed with Intention
Upended by Grace
Rebounded by Love
Exceptional in Life

Today we are looking at U: Upended By Grace. God extends grace to each of us through Jesus Christ's death on the cross. Jesus Christ gave a gift that we don't deserve and that we can't pay for. It is a free "gift received at Christ's expense" extended to each person who believes. "God saved you by His grace when you believed. And you can't take credit for this; it is a gift from God." Ephesians 2:8.

Trust that God's grace is enough and live in the security of His love and forgiveness. Choose to believe God and take Him at His Word. "Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep His promise." Hebrews 10:23. Let His Grace upend your life. Walk, think, and feel like a secure woman.

Believe that you have been forgiven for the sins that you have repented of, then extend grace to others. Don't let offenses build up or unforgiveness control your life. Beth Moore said, "unforgiveness acts like a giant tapeworm that eats us alive, nutrients and all." Forgive and release others from having this power over your life. We can forgive others because we have been forgiven.

So embrace security in Jesus Christ and live your life in victory Upended by Grace. Grace is the only thing that we can keep and give away all at the same time. This is your right as a daughter of the King, to live in security. Let God's Grace upend your life this week.

In Christ Love,
Melody Merritt

A Secure Woman is Clothed with Intention

2010-05-19T11:40:00.002-04:00

Dear Ladies,

Have you been believing God and living as a Secure Woman Entitled to Truth? Don't let the enemy steal Truth from you. Believe God and begin to walk in this security Clothed With Intention.

A Secure Woman is...
Saved from Herself
Entitled to Truth
Clothed with Intention
Upended by Grace
Rebounded by Love
Exceptional in Life

Today we will talk about being Clothed With Intention. We need to get intentional about putting off the old nature and putting on the new. Proverbs 31:25 says that "She is clothed with strength and dignity and she laughs without fear of the future." Make a decision with your mind to walk in security and then your actions will follow your mind and will. Then our hearts will know it and believe it. Walk in the security that Christ Jesus died on the cross to give you.

We are corrupted by our old nature that continualy wants to rule our lives. Renew your mind daily in the Truth of God's Word. Respond how a secure woman would act. "Put on your new nature, created to be like God-truly righteous and holy." Ephesians 4:24. Let your emotions collide with what you know to be Truth from God's Word. As this collision happens then change and transformation will take place in your life and you can live as a secure woman saved from herself, entitled to truth, and clothed with intention. Not self-centered, but looking out for the interests of others as God's love overflows in your life.

Be intentional in your walk with God. Spend time with Him in His Word and in Prayer. God wants to spend time with you. God is passionate about a relationship with you.

In Christ Love,
Melody Merritt

A Secure Woman is Entitled to Truth

2010-05-11T21:50:00.003-04:00

Dear Ladies,

I hope that you have made the decision to walk in freedom as a secure women in Jesus Christ saved from yourself. Have you begun to get rid of the old and put on the new? as Ephesians 4:31-32 tells us.

A Secure Woman is...
Saved from Herself
Entitled to Truth
Clothed with Intention
Upended by Grace
Rebounded by Love
Exceptional in Life

Tonight we will look at the second letter E - Entitled to Truth. As a child of God you are entitled to Truth. The enemy wants you to believe his lies and live in insecurity. This does not mean that you are separated from God's love because nothing can separate us from God's love according to Romans 8:38-39. But when you live believing the enemy's lies you are not living in the freedom and security that God has for you.

Addictions fuel our insecurities and keep us from an intimate relationship with God. Whatever your addiction is it takes God's Truth to defeat it. The longer we live apart from God, the harder your heart becomes and it is harder to hear the Holy Spirit speaking to you.

Ephesians 4:18-19 says that "they are darkened in their understanding and separated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them due to the hardening of their hearts. Having lost all sensitivity, they have given themselves over to sensuality so as to indulge in every kind of impurity, with a continual lust for more."

Addictions can be physical such as alcohol or drugs, but can also be emothional when we allow our insecurities to control our thinking. The longer we give into our addictions the harder your heart becomes and the harder it is to turn away from them. Addictions are fueled by deceit and it takes more and more as the addiction grows. The only thing that can break this cycle is God's Truth.

And as a believer in God, saved by the blood of Jesus Christ, you can take God at His Word. "You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness." Ephesians 4:22-24. His Word is Truth and you are Entitled to Truth. Believing God's Truth enables you to live in freedom and security. So dig into God's Truth and believe It. Then take God at His Word and live in Security. My prayer for each of you is that you will take this leap of faith and walk in the Truth you are entitled to.

In Christ Love,
Melody Merritt

A Secure Woman is Saved From Herself

2010-05-04T23:40:00.003-04:00

Good Evening Ladies,

Are you living in Insecurity or Security?

A Secure Woman is Saved from Herself
Entitled to Truth
Clothed with Intention
Upended by Grace
Rebounded by Love
Exceptional in Life

Today we are going to talk about the S: A Secure Woman is Saved from Herself. You may ask "why do I need to be saved from myself?" The human mind is twisted by inordinate self. This means that the human mind focuses excessively on self. Everything in life curves back to us. We see this in the selfishness of people around us and in our own lives. We want to think that the world revolves around me. This brings insecurity into our lives when our needs or expectations are not met. Our minds become "full of darkness; they wander far from the life God gives because they have closed their minds and hardened their hearts against Him." (Ephesians 4:18) A life full of self is insecure because everyone else is focused on self not them.

After we give our hearts to God and let Him be Lord of our lives we can be saved from ourself. When we are fueled by the Holy Spirit everything looks vertical to God and out. Life is not about us. "Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. Put on your new nature, created to be like God - truly righteous and holy." (Ephesians 4:23-24). Everything curves toward God.

Insecurity itself is a form of pride. We are so focused on self that it feeds the insecurity. But when we look to God and believe what God says about us we are freed from the insecurity. Life is not all about us, but it is about bringing glory to God. We are set free. Security frees us to not think about ourself all the time, but to live as a secure woman in God becoming all that He has called us to be.

My prayer for each of you is "that from His glorious, ulimited resources He will empower you with inner strength through His Spirit. Then Christ will make His home in your hearts as you trust in Him, that your roots will grow down in to God's love and keep you strong. And may you have the power to understand, as all God's people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep His love is. May you experience the love of Christ, though it is too great to understand fully. Then you will be made complete with all the fullness of life and power that comes from God." (Ephesians 3:16-19). And that you will put off the old nature and put on the new nature and be a Secure Woman Saved from Herself.

In Christ Love,
Melody Merritt

Are you living out your calling as "A Secure Woman"?

2010-04-27T22:22:00.003-04:00

Hi Ladies,

On April 24th our church hosted a live simiulcast, "So Long Insecurity", with Bible teacher Beth Moore. There were about 220 women present, including many high school girls, from 27 different churches. If you were one of these women I know that you were blessed, but I also pray tht your life was changed.

Over the next few weeks I will be sharing the key points that Beth Moore taught that day on our Women's Ministry Blog Site. Check it out each week as we review the acronym, Security. We are meant to live secure and satisfied lives in Christ Jesus.

In Ephesians 4:1 we are told that each of us is called "to lead a life worthy of your calling for you have been called by God." The enemy wants to hold us in bondage and insecurity that keeps us from fulfilling our calling as a new creation in Christ Jesus. Victory or defeat resides in the mind. So "throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception. Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. Put on your new nature, created to be like God - truly righteous and holy." Ephesians 4:22-24.

A Secure Woman is: 1. Saved from herself. 2. Entitled to truth. 3. Clothed with intention. 4. Upended by grace. 5. Rebounded by love. 6. Exceptional in life.

Take God at His Word. Spend time with Him in prayer, not just talking, but listening. Saturate yourself in Scripture. Don't be satisfied with the same old defeat. Take a leap of faith. You can live as a Secure Woman in Christ Jesus today.

In Christ Love,
Melody Merritt

So Long Insecurities

2010-04-23T22:52:00.002-04:00

Hi Ladies,

Are you ready to tell your insecurity so long? Come join us on Saturday, April 24, and hear Beth Moore share God's Truth on letting go of your insecurities. We all deal with insecurity of some kind. We need to realize and believe that God created each of us and made us special. God is passionate about you. He loves you. God will not leave you. He wants a relationship with you. And each of us can have that relationship by believing in Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ is the way, the truth, and the life, the only way to bring us into relaionship with God. He died for your sins and He can make you a new creation.

John 3:16 "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten son, that whosoever believes in Him shall not perish, but shall have everlasting life."

In Christ Jesus we who come to Him can have new life and become a new creation in Him. Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.

See you on Saturday!

In Christ Love,
Melody Merritt

Spring Fling

2010-03-06T08:05:00.002-05:00

Good Morning Ladies,

Guess what I woke up thinking about this morning? How to get the ice into glasses on the tables at Spring Fling! Yes, today is Spring Fling! I think we are all ready for a Spring Fling day! It seems like winter days have been here forever with the cold weather. But God set seasons in motion and spring will come. Our theme at Spring Fling this year is "Same Girl...Different Generations". Ladies, no matter what our age we all have some things in commom. One of those things is that God loves us. God is passionate about a relationship with you. Exodus 34:14.

In Christ Love,
Melody Merritt

Are you time challenged?

2010-02-18T16:30:00.003-05:00

Ladies,

Are you like me and seem to be time challenged? By time challenged I mean does it seem that time just gets away and you don't know where it went. This week has been that way for me. On Monday and Tuesday nights I was answering emails and when I got through I thought it had been just an hour and it had been over two. I think that I try to put too much in the 24 hours of each day. But I know that God is Sovereign and He knows exactly how many hours should be in a day. God said 24 hours are in a day. And He created our bodies to need rest. So if God is perfect and right then it has to be me trying to put too much into the time allotted. How do we decide what should be pushed off the plate and what should be left? That is a hard decision for someone who hates to say no. I think what God is teaching me though is to bring all my decisions to Him and to talk to Him about them. I want everything in my life to count for God. So I am trying to ask myself two questions: How will this affect eternity and will it bring glory to God? I want that to be my goal in life, To bring glory and honor in all I do and say to my God and to build His kingdom. Have you examined your days lately, are they overflowing? Join me in bringing them to God and letting Him order your days.

In Christ Love,
Melody Merritt

Don't forget to purchase your Spring Fling ticket by March 1st!! You don't want to miss the fun.

Embrace God!

2009-06-17T14:27:00.002-04:00

Dear Ladies,

God said in Jeremiah 31:3, "I have loved you with an everlasting love, with unfailling love I have drawn you to Myself." God sent His Son Jesus Christ into this world to live and die for each of us because of His love. Sin separates us from God, but through Jesus Christ's death and resurrection we can embrace a relationship with God. God wants a personal relationship with you and me.

In The Divine Embrace Ken Gire shares "Before Jesus called the disciples to ministry, He called them to intimacey...Before He called them to represent Him, He called them to be with Him...Before He sent them out, He drew them close."

This is what our God wants for each of His children today. I desire this for myself - to live the rest of my life - loving Jesus more today than I did yesterday, and more tomorrow than I do today. And I pray for each woman that reads this message that this will become your heart's desire.

"Your unfailing love is better than life itself; how I will praise You. You satisfy me more than the richest feast, I will praise You with songs of joy." -Psalm 63:3,5

Living a Godly Legacy

2009-05-03T22:22:00.002-04:00

Ladies, What kind of legacy are you living? What is your life centered on?
Come find out about leaving a godly legacy as we look at the lives of Rahab and Esther.

Ladies Night Out
DATE: Saturday, May 9th
TIME: 6-8 PM
LOCATION: ABC Fellowship Hall

Ladies, treat yourself to a night out to learn what it means to be a godly woman and to leave a godly legacy. This night filled with laughs, great food and even better fellowship will leave you refreshed and recharged.

The cost is $5.00

May 4th is the deadline for signups Call the church office or confirm via email to women@apexbaptist.org. Don't miss what God has in store for you!

Join Our Mailing List!
Apex Baptist Church

110 S. Salem St
Apex, North Carolina 27502

Forward email

2009-04-27T22:56:00.002-04:00

Hi Ladies,

I want to share something with you this week that Sheila Heath wrote. I hope it encourages you in your walk of faith as much as it has me. Please continue reading:

"God doesn't create evil or directly cause evil, but evil is not outside of God's control. He often uses it for His own glory. It is hard for us to understand why bad things come our way
We only see one piece of the puzzle for our life, but God sees the entire picture. The faithful Christian will walk by faith, trusting God to do what is right in every situation.

How do we separate ourselves from evil and focus on Good (God)?

Evil is all around us, and frankly, I think it is out of control. This past Wednesday, thousands of people gathered in various areas around the country to protest taxes. They were called tea parties. Unfortunately, they were not even acknowledged by the mainstream media or the White House. These people did not cause any riots. They were very peaceful, and several signs were held up with scripture written on them.

So how loud do we as Christians need to get before our voices are heard against the evil in this country? Does anyone listen? Will they ever listen? Have the ones that are in control of our country turned a deaf ear to our voices?

Isaiah 2:22Stop trusting in man, who has but a breath in his nostrils. Of what account is he?

So, how do we separate ourselves from evil and focus on Good (God)?

We can separate ourselves from evil and focus on Good (God) by:

Praying - Allowing God to hear our voices - Pray for the evil around us
Reading - Spending time in God's Word daily
Seeking - Asking God to reveal His purpose for you
Meditating - Close your eyes thinking on the goodness of God
Armour - Put on God's Armour so you can be prepared to be shielded from the evil one

Ask God to pour His spirit into you every morning. Spend at least 5 minutes meditating, hearing His voice. I encourage you to turn off evil all day and turn on good (God). Listen to Christian music or Christian talk radio/TV. Think on the things of God. Remember everyday what He did for you on the cross.

Deuteronomy 4:29But if from there you seek the LORD your God, you will find him if you look for Him with all your heart and with all your soul.

God is Good! God is in control! "

Sheila

Memory Verse for the week:
This is the day that the Lord hath made. Let us rejoice and be glad in it.
Psalm 118:24

**Mark your calendars: Girlfriends Night Out, Saturday, May 9th, 6:00-8:00 at ABC Fellowship Hall. Don't be left out. Come join the fun. Bring your girlfriends with you.

In Christ Love,
Melody Merritt

Encouragement for Your Legacy

2009-04-20T22:26:00.003-04:00

What kind of legacy are you leaving? I don't mean when you die, but each day as you are living! A legacy is what others see as they look at our lives. Our legacy influences the people around us for good or bad. It is hard to live a godly life in such an ungodly world. But we don't have to do it by ourselves.

Our God is good. He does not leave us to do this alone. He has called us to live a holy life. He has given us His Holy Spirit to guide us. "So be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid and do not panic before them (the world). For the Lord your God will personally go ahead of you. He will neither fail you nor abandon you." (Deuteronomy 31:6). Be in the Word of God everyday. Let God speak to you through His Word. Pray, talk to God and listen to Him. Look for God's Presence in your life each day. He is there.

"Be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Put on God's armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil." (Ephesians 6:10) Ladies, you can be an overcomer and live victoriously in this world because our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ overcame the world. Whatever you are going through right now, stand firm and trust God. He is leading you to a glorious destiny.

g! Group Updates!!

2009-04-06T21:21:00.002-04:00

Ladies!

Thank you to everyone who attended the “Taste & See” Women’s event last Sunday! We are overjoyed with your enthusiasm for “What’s Cookin” at ABC and have been so blessed by your feedback. Take a minute to stop by the Women’s Ministry bulletin board in the hall by the sanctuary for pictures and updates!

If you missed the event, I’m sure by now you’ve heard the buzz. The Women’s Ministry Council announced a new ministry tool that you’ll be seeing lots of, “Girlfriends Unlimited”. We also introduced g! groups which are small groups of women with a common interest. Ladies had an opportunity to sign up for one or more of the 14 small groups available. There was another group added during the 2nd service – “Line Dancing”! If you would like to sign up for a group and didn’t, please contact the FUNcilitator of the group you are interested in. These are the groups currently available.

g! Group FUNcilitator
Beading/Jewelry Kami Terry
Book Review Dell Pinkston
Coffee Group Fair Mims
Quilting/Sewing Grace Kirkland
Chick Flicks Laurel Veeder
Exercise Judy Oakley
Writers/Speakers Amy Carroll
Treasure Keepers Phyllis Wagner
Photography Angelisa Faucette
Gardening You?
Gaming Gals Gayle Yates
Cooking/Nutrition You?
Craft You?
Line Dancing Carla Torrence

The organization of the g! groups is well under way with FUNcilitators being identified and information being channeled. Over the next few weeks, here is what you can expect:

1. If you are a FUNcilitator, you should be getting a list of women who signed up for your group (if you haven’t already)
2. For everyone else, FUNcilitators will be contacting you with information about the g! groups that you signed up for
3. A list of all g! groups and FUNcilitator’s names & contact information will be on the Women’s Ministry website (www.apexbaptist.org/women)
4. G! groups will begin getting together for fun & fellowship!

If you have any questions, please contact one of the women on the Women’s Ministry Council. Also, if you’d like to get involved and are not sure how, give us a call or send us an email – we’d love to hear from you!

2009 Women’s Ministry Council Members

Melody Merritt HomeNC@aol.com
Dawn Ward dawnward@nc.rr.com
Holly Ladner hollyladner@embarqmail.com
Mary Cantrell mcantrell4@nc.rr.com
Susan Meyer meyerzone@yahoo.com
Margaret Lawrence Mlawrence26@nc.rr.com
Connie Womble gwomble589@aol.com
June Thompson June4als@aol.com

Blessings to you!
The Apex Baptist Women’s Ministry Council

.AOLWebSuite .AOLPicturesFullSizeLink { height: 1px; width: 1px; overflow: hidden; } .AOLWebSuite a {color:blue; text-decoration: underline; cursor: pointer} .AOLWebSuite a.hsSig {cursor: default}

Relationships

2009-03-30T21:51:00.002-04:00

Hi Everyone,

Wow! Are you excited about the new items on the Menu at Apex Baptist for Ladies? I am! There is a place for everyone to plug in and have fun with girlfriends and meet new ones.

It is tough being a woman in today's world. Isn't it? But you don't have to walk alone in this life. God didn't create us to be alone. He created us to be in relationships. First, with Him through our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Spend time each day with God in prayer (talking and listening) and in the Holy Scriptures. Then as you go through your day look for God to show up. He will in a sunrise, a sunset, or in a still quiet way, but look for Him, He is there. "If you look for Me wholeheartedly, you will find me. I will be found by you, says the Lord." Jeremiah 29:13. Secondly, we are made to be in relationship with other people. Spend time with other believers to be encouraged and to encourage them. It is so sweet to talk about Jesus with a fellow believer. Then when you have an opportunity to help someone in need you are ready to reach out in Jesus' Name.

This is a great quote from the movie, "Kungfu Panda" (I don't think the quote is originally from that movie, but I don't know where it originated). "Yesterday is history. Tomorrow is a mystery. Today is a gift, That is why it is called the Present!" Each day is a present from God. Live for Him each day. "You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in You, all whose thoughts are fixed on You. Trust in the Lord always, for the Lord God is the eternal Rock." Isaiah 26:3-4.

Well, it is time for me to get some rest. I pray that each of you are resting in God today.

In Christ Love,

Melody Merritt
Women's Ministry Director
Apex Baptist Church

2009-03-28T23:09:00.002-04:00

I hope everyone was able to stay in today out of the rain. I got to go hear our very own Amy Carroll speak. She spoke on Lessons from the Vineyard. There is a conflict within each of with our old nature and our new nature. Are you living in bondage to sin or are you living the fruitful life in Jesus Christ? Each of us can burst forth with fruit and live a life of victory if we abide in Jesus Christ. According to Ephesians 1:3 God has placed everything in our life and given us all we need to be fruitful. Now we need to relax, abide in the vine, and let the Holy Spirit work in us.

To abide in the vine we need to spend time with God everyday in His Word, in prayer, and listening to Him. Come Sunday morning to the Taste and See for the women of ABC and find out how you can abide with other believers in the fellowship God loves you and wants to spend time with you.

See you on Sunday!

In Christ Love,
Melody Merritt

A Second Start

2009-03-10T06:08:00.002-04:00

Hello Ladies,

I am going to try this again. I am not very technical as you have probably figured out already. And I admit it I procrastinate on things that I find hard. Blogging should be easy. I love to talk! It seems to be the time that I can't find. I am going to try to blog more often. I wish I could say every few days, but I don't want to set myself up for failure! We'll see!

How about you is there anything you have trouble finding time for? Guess what! God created time for us. He set a day with 24 hours. We are the ones who try to overload that 24 hours. I find that when I get overloaded my time with God is what usually gets shortchanged. Does God get your first or your leftovers? I have to admit sometimes I get up late or am so rushed getting out of the house in the mornings that I don't give God the first or even my best time. I do try not to leave home without a devotion and prayer, but sometimes they are very short. But my day goes so much better when I have spent time with my Lord at the beginning of my day. During the first 2 months of this year God has been getting my attention, drawing me to Him and I have such a deep longing to be with Him more and more. My prayer is that each of you will have this same longing for time with God, no matter whether it is 5 minutes or 30. I pray that you will hunger for a deeper relationship with God.

In Christ Love,
Melody Merritt

December is here!

2008-11-30T19:15:00.002-05:00

Ladies,

December is here! Does that raise your stress level? or fill you with childlike anticipaiton! This advent season should bring joy to our lives as we think about the true reason that we are celebrating. But most of the time as we rush around getting ready for Christmas,we forget about the true reason for the season. It begins to look like we are leaving Christ out. If someone came to your house would they find Jesus Christ living there? If you have believed and accepted Jesus Christ as your Savior, then the Holy Spirit lives in you. As you are getting ready for Christmas...decorating, shopping, and cooking...don't forget to prepare your heart. Make room, give Jesus Christ first place in your heart and home. Share the gift of Jesus' love with others this year!

"And Mary said: 'My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior...'"
-Luke 1:46-47.

An October Thought

2008-10-15T15:47:00.002-04:00

Ladies,

This past weekend the ladies that went to Caswell had a splendid time! We made some memories (as our Youth Pastor says) and lots of friendships. We laughed and laughed and laughed! We praised God, we shared tears and laughter, and we loved on each other.

God is good all the time. God moves mountains in His time that are immovable by human standards. Praise the Lord! Whatever mountain is in your life turn to God and trust Him. Proverbs 3:5-7 says "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight. Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and shun evil." Keep your eyes on Jesus Christ and He will guide you. He will never leave you nor forsake you.

If you are not in a Bible Study you need to be. There is no other way to say it, except get in God's Word. God has sent a love letter to you with instructions and encouragement, everything you need to live in victory. But if you don't read it, it will not help you. There is a new Bible Study starting Thursday mornings October 16th at 9:30 am in Room 315 led by Cathy Parker "Annointed, Transformed, Redeemed" on the life of King David. This study is a 6 week study filmed at a Deeper Still Event and written by Priscilla Shirer, Beth Moore and Kay Arthur. This study will also go on Wednesday nights starting October 29th at 6:30 pm in Room 311 led by Melody Merritt.

Remember you are a Princess because your Father is the King of Kings!!

In Christ Love,
Melody Merritt

Life!

2008-09-22T08:04:00.002-04:00

Hi Ladies,
Today is Monday, September 22, and fall is in the air. I saw lots of you at that lake on Sunday. Wasn't it a great day! Then I got to go down to my sisters that evening and see my two neices get baptised. And on the way home that night my daugters had a hymn sing along. They sang every hymn they could think of by going through the abc's. It was fun! Hope your day was as great as mine.

Have you signed up for the Ladies Retreat at Caswell? You still have time. The price goes up to $80 this week. You don't want to miss out on the weekend. And I am not crazy enough to think that every lady can go or would even want to. But if God is tugging at your heart, maybe you need some time away with some of your sisters in Christ to relax, be refreshed, and have lots of fun and laugh alot. Laughter is good medicine for the soul. So what are you waiting for?

Are you busy? In that busyness, don't leave out God. I want to share honestly with you and hope this encourages at least one of you. When I get overwhelmed with my schedule, my time with God is usually the first thing that seems to get shortchanged. And the enemy loves that. It causes me to get discouraged, depressed, and even more tired. If I just stop and sit with God He lifts me out of that pit that I can so easily slide into. Open your Bible and read a Psalm, just sit and meditate on how much God loves you, or talk to another Christian friend. Be real and don't try to hide behind a mask. Ask someone to pray with you. We are not to be Lone Ranger SuperWomen! We are part of the body of Christ. God loves you! And so do we (Christian sisters at ABC)!

In Christ Love,
Melody Merritt

WELCOME TO THE TAPESTRY

2008-08-17T16:26:00.004-04:00

The Women's Ministry at Apex Baptist Church is like a tapestry that God is weaving through Bible Studies, special events, conferences, weekend retreats, fellowships, and mentoring to draw each woman into a deeper personal relationship with Him. Come use your God-given gifts and talents to further enhance the kingdom and become a part of this tapestry as lives are changed.

"In Christ, we who are many form one body, each member belongs to all the others."
Romans 12:5