Friday, December 31, 2010

2010 Year End Review


With the sun setting on 2010, my family has much to be thankful for, as I'm sure yours does as well. A few things my family went to, was a part of, or witnessed this year were:

  • three of our children getting baptized
  • meeting and getting to know many new friends, including the Brookshire's, Hoover's, Shock's, Bandy's and Bult's
  • attended the Reformaiton Day Faire at Providence Church, and was able to spend time talking with Kevin Swanson, and my good friend, James McDonald
  • wife and daughters attended several 'ladies teas' and received much encouragement
  • my family was able to see Voddie Baucham speak at the ICHE convention, and my wife and daughters were able to personally meet Jasmine Baucham at a ladies tea as well
  • camped out for the first time over Memorial Day weekend

Friday, December 17, 2010

Tools to Help in Your Leadership Role


I'll be the first to admit - leading a family spiritually isn't easy - and doing it alone is even harder. As a first generation Christian I know the challenges first hand that arise when you set out to break destructive cycles in your life. It can feel overwhelming at times- and truth be told, it is overwhelming at times- and only does having a proper perspective help me make it to the next day.

This is why I'm so glad that in today's day and age, we have the opportunity to invest in ourselves, and in the lives of those around us, with just the click of the mouse, the flip of the page, or the scroll of an ipod. There's no reason to be unequipped to lead your home; there's no reason to lack the resources necessary to lead your family courageously.

Tuesday, December 14, 2010

What About Socialization?

My family runs a blog aimed at encouraging homeschoolers called The Homeschool Corner, and thought you might enjoy this funny video my wife posted there this morning about the silly questions we homeschoolers have to answer about "socialization."

Hope you enjoy; click here to view!

Friday, December 10, 2010

Invest In Your Family This Christmas

Every year when we buy gifts we try to make sure we include gifts that will sharpen the character of our children, teach them something new or grow in their spiritual walk with the Lord. We love Vision Forum because their products are family centered and help me to accomplish many of my goals in strengthening my marriage, family, and homeschool.

Dad's are always busy working hard for our families so we don't have much time to shop--so I thought I would make it easy for you this year and sharing some valuable resources and gifts that I think will bless you and your family:


Thursday, December 9, 2010

Big Props to My Beautiful Wife!


My wife, June Fuentes, of A Wise Woman Builds Her Home, will be a keynote speaker at the Relevant Conference, happening in October 2011, and I just wanted to give her a big Congratulations. She's a woman who strives to serve the LORD in all that she does, and the LORD has been very gracious and merciful in allowing her blog to touch so many lives around the world.

If you're a blogger, and would like Godly encouragement in the social medium that the LORD has laid on your heart to be involved in, you should consider going this conference. She has also successfully launched a consulting business this past year and is teaching people how to monetize and advertise on their blogs--if you are interested you can learn more here, and again, congratulations, Sweety!

Tuesday, December 7, 2010

Godly Men and Music


 The Male Domain would like to introduce to it's reader's to two godly men--Steve and Danny Thompson!


 Steve and Danny Thomspon are two brothers who grew up in a missionary family in Honduras and Chile and wanted to share with their generation the rich hymns of our heritage. The result is a wonderful debut CD entitled How Firm a Foundation  which includes a soothing blend of vocals, classical guitar, cello, violin and piano combined to give you an uplifting moment of quiet contemplation of biblical truth. "Our ultimate desire is that our music would serve to bring biblical truth to bear on the listener's mind in order to encourage godliness."

Visit my wife's blog to view a video of them and enter a giveaway to win one of the three free CD's they are giving away!


Monday, December 6, 2010

"The Sword and the Trowel" by Mark Driscoll


This is a great message I heard some time ago from Driscoll, and thought it would be great commercial in our Raising Sons series. It will help you get a big picture for biblical manhood as you seek to raise up Warriors for Jesus Christ.

If you can make the time to listen to it, or perhaps download the mp3 and listen to it on the go, it would be well worth your time!

To watch the video, or listen to the audio, click here!

Friday, December 3, 2010

Raising Sons: The Need for Discipline


"Boys are confronted with a culture which is hostile to the very idea 
of masculinity and which is industriously doing whatever it can to exterminate it.
Boys who, for whatever reason, resist the allurements of masculine laziness
immediately find themselves at war with the culture at large." 
-Douglas Wilson, Future Men

Let's face it, young men today, as a whole, are undisciplined. When a young man has gone off the path that God calls him to, we must immediately look to the father of that boy for answers to his waywardness. There are two primary areas of life that young men need to be disciplined in, and failing in either area will lead to certain abandonment of biblical manhood.  

The first area is that of inner discipline. Our boys must learn to deal with their inner desire to reject the hard life. Men were created to be builders, to take dominion, to bring order out of chaos; but to do these things takes hard work, and that hard work is what men naturally shy away from. We must teach our boys to embrace their positions, not abandon them.

If a boy looks inward to what is right and wrong, it won't take very long for that boy's life to spiral out of control. A young man's natural temptation will be to abandon biblical manhood in lieu of cultural manhood, which biblically speaking, is no manhood at all. There will times when our boys should enjoy some of the pleasures of this world, but to be ruled by them is never an option; to be consumed by them is not an option either. A fine dinner with good drink is a reward that I enjoy with my wife on occasion, and it's something our boys should look forward to as well!

Rising to the call of biblical manhood is hard work- if it wasn't, more men would achieve what so few have. It takes focus, it takes training, it takes dying to self, it takes vision, it takes courage. The path of least resistance takes none of the above. You eat, you drink, you play games, you get a girl, then repeat the cycle; that's about the sum total of cultural manhood. Completely antithetical to what scripture call men to.

The second area of life that boys need discipline in springboards off the first and is this- they need to be disciplined to reject what the culture is calling them to. They're biblical men, and as such, they should have neither the time nor the inclination to be involved in such a low vocation as that of a cultural man. What's laid out before them from the media; whether it be the music industry, movie industry, or youth industry, must be rejected if they are to rise to the call of a biblical man. Will they have dealings with all of these as they walk through this world? - Absolutely, but they must be disciplined enough to interact with them in a way that brings glory to God. 

The culture is always baiting the hook in hopes of bringing down our boys, therefore, it is imperative that we teach our sons to be discerning, to be wise, to be courageous, and to be disciplined. Our boys must know that they are enlisted in the army of the Lord, and as soldiers for Christ, they have a much higher code of conduct than those around them. Let us equip them for good service, and let us pray earnestly that their service is served honorably to the King.

May the LORD give us wisdom as we seek to do His will in the lives of our sons!


I look forward to hearing your thoughts on this subject...


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I wrote an article called "Teach Them to Work," that may interest you as well. Click here to view!

Thursday, December 2, 2010

Are You a Mother of Sweet Little Blessings?

This is Mrs. June Fuentes popping in again to say hello to all the women who like to visit The Male Domain! I hope you are enjoying my husband's series on Raising Sons as much as I am--lots of food for thought.  I would also like to take a minute to share with you if you are a blessed mother to one or many small ones, a wonderful cloth diaper company called Sweet Little Blessings. If you are looking for an alternative to disposable diapers for your sweet bundle of joy be sure to visit them!

Monday, November 29, 2010

Raising Sons: Fighting a Feminized Culture


"We live in a feminist and effeminate culture. Because of this, at best,
as a people we are uneasy with masculinity, and with increasing
regularity, whenever it manages to appear somehow, we call for 
someone to do something about it." -Douglas Wilson, Future Men

There's a reason tween girls like the Jonas Brothers (pictured above), and it's probably because they look like tween girls themselves. Skinny jeans and mom's haircut is how I heard one speaker at a conference I attended describe their look: not them specifically, but boys who look like them. 

Our boys are growing up in a society where being feminine and male are synonymous with one another. To be masculine is seen as being extreme, macho, or even mean to some. Carrying yourself like a man should won't get you very far with the culture we live in. Even in many christian churches, boys looking feminine isn't too abnormal. Parents say it's just a phase, or they'll grow out it, and perhaps they will; but why can't that "phase" be one of biblical masculinity? Why is a phase always sinful, and why do parents accept it?

If your boys are leaning toward the feminine look that's popular for young men, like, skinny jeans and moms haircut, you should be asking yourself some basic questions like: 

Who has your son's heart? 

Who are his primary influences? 

Why isn't his dad who he's trying to emulate? (Assuming dad doesn't wear skinny jeans and have moms haircut!)

And, is your son learning manhood from the word of God?

There are great passages of scripture that every son should learn from if his desire is to become a biblical man. I always tell young men to study the qualifications for Elders and Deacons laid out in 1 Tim. 3: 1-13, and Titus 1: 5-9, then set out to meet that criteria for their lives. One of my favorite verses, 1 Cor. 16:13, says, "Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong." (emphasis mine) And of course, I tell them to study the life of Christ, who is the ultimate example of manhood, and live a life that's pleasing to Him.

Being masculine has nothing to do with height or weight either, because I know some out there have accused me of saying that all boys should fall into the jock/athlete model, and that's not at all what I'm saying. He shouldn't be a bully either, and he shouldn't punch any guy out who didn't deserve it. A biblical man is one who understands his position in the world and embraces his duty as a man. To abandon his position as a leader, a provider, a protector, or a priest, is to sin against God, and to sin against those he's called to lead.

I've had the pleasure of meeting and getting to know some wonderful examples of young men who have risen above the mediocrity that culture sets forth for young men today, and have seen first hand what the Lord can do with those who truly desire to live Godly in an ungodly world. These young men come from households that take seriously the commandment to "bring up our children in the training and instruction of the Lord." (Eph. 6:4)

It takes work to raise Godly, masculine boys, and there may be some resistance along the way, because after all, their hearts are naturally inclined to resist God's will for their life and embrace sin as the norm; but don't lose heart, God's grace is inexhaustible. I'm a prime example of someone who defied God's will for my life through my teen years and beyond, and today, by His grace, and by His grace alone, I stand here encouraging others to lean on His word. Let's not accept what seems to be the norm out there, rather, let's redefine the norm with the word of God. You won't be popular, and you might even take one for the team from time to time, but that's okay, we need runners on base!



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(At the end of this post, I have several resources listed that would benefit you with regards to raising sons.)

Sunday, November 28, 2010

Resource and Giveaway for Daughters: The Family Daughter Book

This is Mrs. June Fuentes, popping in again to share a wonderful resource with all the readers of The Male Domain.I am having a fabulous giveaway at my  blog, A Wise Woman Builds Her Home, on a wonderful book to encourage your daughters called The Family Daughter: Becoming Pillars of Strength In Our Father's House.


If you are looking for godly resources for you daughter or granddaughters, this is it. Be sure to check it out---the giveaway will end in a week on 12/6/10!

Tuesday, November 23, 2010

The Loss of Innocence, and the Gift of New Life


For those who may question why our daughters need to be protected, I share the following testimony I received from a reader of mine. I share this with her permission, and I share this as a call to men to stand in gap, fight for your girls, and don't ever think they're old enough to go-it-alone. This reader is responding to my articles on Protecting Daughters, which can be read here, and here.

Her words...

I am a 30 year old Christian wife and mother of 3 boys. I came to know The Lord at the age of 19, after I had almost destroyed myself. To be honest, I thank the Lord that I am even alive today, let alone saved. I was taken from my mother when my parents divorced when I was a toddler. My dad later remarried and I was raised by him and my step mom. My dad was a soldier, which meant he was gone a lot. While he was away my step mom would demean him and not enforce his rules. She made jokes about him. She encouraged me to wear tight clothing and would tease me when I didn't want to. Some of her advice to me through the years was "get your education and make your own money so you don't have to be dependent on a man."
When I was a sophomore in high school and was dating a young man who was in college, her advice to me was that it's okay to have sex as long as I'm in love and I come to her for protection...oh, and she promised not to tell my dad. Long story short, before I turned 19 I was no longer a virgin, I had been pulled into Wicca and alcohol and drugs. I was raped at age 17 and ended up pregnant by the time I was a senior in high school. Since my boyfriend was 12 years older than me, he and his family made sure I had an abortion so he wouldn't end up in jail for statutory rape.
By the time I was 18 I was living with this man because I felt I had nowhere to go. I didn't want to go back to my father's house, where my step mom was cruel and cussed and screamed and my dad was never around to protect me from her. I decided my only option was to live with this man, who was no man at all. Even though he took advatange of me I was young and naive, so I believed him when he said he loved me. I payed the bills while he sat around playing video games and smoking pot.

One night he got brave and put my hands behind my back and shoved me against the wall. Then he threw me on the bed. All because I wouldn't give him my keys to my car. I fought him and got away. I got saved that night as I drove away from him. In my car, alone and scared and exhausted, I cried out to God. I only knew John 3:16. Up until this moment God was always the one I cried to in my pillow at night from the time I was around 7 years old and started having memories of being molested when I was 5. He was the one I cried to when I was hurt over and over by the people who were supposed to protect me. But I didn't know Him. This night, however, I cried out to Him and told Him I didn't want to be alone anymore and I didn't want to live for empty things that didn't satify me. I told God that if He could do anything with a worthless, pitiful mess like me, that He could have me. My life has been drastically different ever since. He washed me and changed my heart.

So..about your article about defending daughters:
I agree with you whole heartedly. Before I learned to forgive my step mom I was always very angry with her. It wasn't until I was a mother and saw her selfishness affecting my children and noticed my dad wasn't standing in front of my children, that I realized that my dad was equally at fault for some of the things I experienced as a young girl. He was off defending a nation, and I am grateful for his service and I understand that his job required that he be away. But even so, he was not able to defend his little girl. I thank the Lord for stepping in. He gave me a wonderful God-fearing husband who protects our family no matter who says what about it.

So..to all the men out there: stand in front of your daughters. Her life depends on it.


Thank you to my reader who shared this, and thank you to the LORD for doing a wonderful work in her life!

Your thoughts...

Wednesday, November 17, 2010

Protecting Daughters - Follow Up!


A few months back, I wrote an article on 'Protecting Daughters,' that you can read by clicking here.

I got several insightful comments from some of my readers, but just received a disturbing comment that I first thought might just be the opinion of the person leaving the comment, but then felt like there may be others who share their opinion.

I'm posting their comment to the article, and my response, in order to allow my readers an opportunity to way in if you so desire.

Their comment to my article:

"It`s a good thing that you love your daughters and want to stand up for them. All kids should have such a dad. But you give me the impression that you consider female purity and virtuousness as more valuable and more important than male, so therefore daughters require special protection. I don`t see why. Both teenage boys and teenage girls need parental guidance and protection, as they easily could be led astray by emotions and bad company.

Female virginity may traditionally have been some trademark for men to protect and exchange, but Jesus brought us a new gospel. To God, there is no difference between male and female purity. They are of equal value. Both daughters and sons should be raised to become conscious, independent adults, taught to always stay in personal contact with God and always be led by Him and no one else. As they grow older, they`re supposed to need lesser and lesser of parental protection, to grow into independent adulthood, become able to take care and responsibility of their own life. Otherwise parents have failed."
My response:

You say you don't see why girls need special protection; look around, who are most rape victims? Who gets taken advantage of most often? Who, if they give in at a moment of weakness, is left being a single parent? And who, did God make the weaker vessel?

Next, you say: "Female virginity may traditionally have been some trademark for men to protect and exchange, but Jesus brought us a new gospel." Jesus did not bring any "new" gospel, and are you saying that because of the gospel female virginity no longer matters? Confusing remarks...

You then said:
"As they grow older, they`re supposed to need lesser and lesser of parental protection, to grow into independent adulthood, become able to take care and responsibility of their own life. Otherwise parents have failed."

Where does the bible say this?
Your androgynous approach to parenting is very disturbing. To not see any difference in how we raise boys and girls is dumbfounding.

I agree, however, that boys must be taught self-control and also need protecting, but their protection is different than the protection I afford my girls, because you see, men are natural hunters, and girls are naturally hunted. So my boys must learn to control their desire for a pretty lady, and my girls must be protected from boys who've not learned this.

Share your thoughts!


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Wednesday, November 10, 2010

For the Women...

Just a quick hello from me, Steve's wife--Mrs. June Fuentes from A Wise Woman Builds Her Home--wanting to let all the readers here on TMD know about two great giveaways going on at my blog:


 and



These would make a great gift for the special women in your life!

Have a blessed day!

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Friday, November 5, 2010

Raising Sons


Next week, I'll be posting about raising sons from boyhood to manhood, and what we can expect at various stages throughout the process. There's much we - as parents- should be doing to help facilitate the transition of our sons from boys to men, so please join me as we embark on this wonderful journey together.

With 5 boys of my own, you know I want to get this one right. God be with us and give us wisdom in raising your sons to your glory!

Thursday, November 4, 2010

5 Reasons You Should Get to Church On Time

  1. You're a bad example to your children.
  2. You're a bad example to visitors.
  3. You're a bad example to the congregation.
  4. You're a bad example of a Christ follower.
  5. You're a bad example to your Pastor.
We could go on, but we'll stop there. I hope this isn't you, but if it is, repent and get up early this Sunday! 

Monday, November 1, 2010

Fabulous Lilla Rose Giveaway!

Hi everyone! This is Mrs. June Fuentes, wife to Steve, popping in to say hello to all the readers of The Male Domain and let you know that there is a fabulous Lilla Rose giveaway going on at my blog, A Wise Woman Builds Her Home!

Husbands and sons--Lilla Rose sells beautiful hair jewelry and much more for your mothers, wives, sisters and daughters be sure to visit them to purchase something special for the loved ones in your life. The holidays are around the corner (hint, hint!). :)

And for the women readers of The Male Domain--everything is beautiful--trust me! Hurry on over there right now!

Here is a glimpse of one their great items, The Flexi-Clip:





Click this link to go to the Giveaway and see more or here to directly visit the store.


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Monday, October 25, 2010

Reformation Day Faire 2010

This past weekend, my family spent 3 wonderful days in Morton, IL., near Peoria, at the Reformation Day Faire hosted by Providence Church. This was our second year attending, and enjoyed every moment of the weekend. From the warm hospitality and wonderful meals, to the messages highlighting the life of William Tyndale and Highland games, my family had a blast. We're spending Monday recovering and are already making plans for next year!

Here's a few pics from the Faire...

Members of my church who attended!

Kevin Swanson imploring us to be Reformers!
 
Young men preparing for war!

Charlie Zahm in concert at the Faire!

The Caper Toss game. I missed winning by 1ft!

My boys Stephen and Ravi attacking their bud Zeke!

My little Josiah!

All made possible by the cross of Christ!

Tuesday, October 19, 2010

Discernment: A Lost Art in Today's World


Question: 
"Which parts of a cow are good for eating, and which aren't?" "Which liquids produced by a cow are good for drinking, and which aren't?"

Most people would have no problem answering these questions because the answers seem pretty obvious. However, when it comes to other issues where discernment is needed, I see people lacking in this necessary survivor skill. They throw out the baby with the bath water, or take a blanket approach to answering questions, rather than do some critical thinking which might take some time, and might upset a few folks.

I know it's easier not to think, and it's easier to just go along to get along, but is that what Christ calls us to? As believers, we are called to have and implement discernment all the time. We must look at the culture, and be able to discern which aspects of it should be adopted, which should be adapted, and which should be rejected. I learned this three way approach to culture from Ed Stetzer, who has a great ability to discern the times and develop an approach for the gospel in a given setting.

As we move forward in our lives, my hope is that our ability to discern the times we live in, discern movements around us, and discern  crucial areas of life that we must engage, grows deeper and deeper so that we may able to live as Christ did, and wear the coat of Christ in a way that brings Him glory!

Wednesday, October 13, 2010

Fatherhood 101


I'll be the first to admit - when it comes to fathering - I've got a long way to go. Many of the men I make time for in my life are men I can learn from when it comes to one of the most important jobs I'll ever have - fathering.

With only a limited number of hours in a day, week, or month, I know how important every decision I make regarding my time is. Saying 'Yes' to something that pulls me away from my home and family, is saying 'No' to my family. As men, we need to make hard calls and learn to live as Christ lived - sacrificially. We can't say yes to every ballgame, sports league, or guys outing that doesn't include our families. Doing so will greatly tarnish your familial legacy, or even worse, cause your children to reject the God you desire them to follow because, in their eyes, God stole their dad.

The decisions we make with our time will have far reaching implications with our children and families. Some things need our time - work, keeping up our homes and vehicles, time alone with our spouse, etc.- but others, not so much. Personally, I grew up a big sports buff, a jock if you will. I lettered in football, baseball, and swimming in high school, and was captain my senior year of several of those teams. When I wed, and even after having my first child, I still tried to maintain and feed my appetite for athletics that I thought I couldn't live without. I joined sports leagues, spent Saturday afternoons with friends at the field, and tried to catch every ball game on TV. All this was on top of working over 40 hours a week, so you can imagine, my wife and daughter didn't get much of me; and what they did get was usually left overs.

It took the Lord moving in my heart and me choosing to obey His voice to make the changes necessary to bring me back home - where I belonged. It wasn't easy, and it didn't happen over night. The changes were gradual, and even today, with eight wonderful children, I'll still catch the occasional ball game (playoffs usually), and keep up with the NFL, MLB, and NBA by listening to sports talk on my drive to/from work. My boys and I are big Chicago Bears fans, so this year is starting off great with them being in first place with a 4-1 record!

I believe the Lord speaks to men about their activities all the time, but unfortunately, most Christian men ignore what He's saying to them because of what obeying it might mean. How sad, that a team or game which has no soul, feels no emotions, and  knows none of its devotees names, is valued more to many men than their own children or wives. How many men opt out of church or bible study because there's a game on that they  absolutely can't miss? I've seen and heard this far too often, even in my own my life, before I chose to obey the voice of God.

My word to you guys is this: Don't make time for the temporal by sacrificing the eternal. Your wife and kids need your time - not your money or possessions - your time. An hour with dad to a 8 year little boy or girl is like a whole day in their eyes. Sitting on the couch with your kids gathered around conveys to your family that they really matter and that dad means what he says about God. The Lord will hold us responsible for how we bring up our children (Eph. 6: 4), and how we love our wives (Eph. 5: 25), and in order to accomplish both of these commandments, somethings gotta give.

So build you an altar, lay your time consuming activities on it, gather your family around, choose to obey the voice of the Lord, and let the bonfire begin - I'll bring the marshmallows!



Feel free to share a comment of how God has changed what you choose to spend your time on, I'd love to read about it!





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Monday, October 11, 2010

Why Glorify Evil?



My family doesn't celebrate, honor, give credence to, attention to, or spend money on, Halloween. Why not? -you ask- because we're Christians, I say. We'd rather do all the above for the one who redeemed us from our voracious appetites for evil, Jesus Christ.

Now, if you're not a Christ follower, go ahead, indulge in Halloween. I don't expect you to live under biblical authority (although, even unbelievers are blessed when they adhere to biblical precepts), but, if you'd rather not, I won't hold it against you.

On the other hand, if you are a Christ follower, redeemed by the blood of the Lamb through and through, I'm curious to know why you would choose to bring attention to, exaltation to, and spend your money on, that which God says to avoid? Just curious, that's all - really - I'm not looking for a fight, or trying to judge your motives or heart, (only God can do that), but I'm always fascinated at the responses Christians give when they try to justify celebrating Halloween every year about this time. It's like Mike Tyson in a spelling bee - lots of mumbling, studdering, and sweating!

So go ahead, throw a punch, I can take it. Just stay above the belt because I'd like to have more kids!

Whatever you choose for your family, just remember this - the cross of Christ unites us, and therefore, if you disagree with me, I'm cool with that, and as an expression of my solitude with you, if we ever meet I'd be willing to to let you buy me a cup of coffee as we chat about how wrong you are on this one! Peace...



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To see a short video about the origins of Halloween, visit my wife's blog, A Wise Woman Builds Her Home, by clicking here! She has quite an array of opinions being expressed...



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Saturday, October 9, 2010

Ten Secrets to a Successful Marriage


Focus on the Family writer, Mitch Temple, has a written a nice, short checklist to help marriages prosper in any circumstance. Read it by clicking here!



(Like the content on The Male Domain? Subscribe to my posts easily by clicking here! ~Thanks)

Friday, October 1, 2010

Patriot's Club: An Exciting Way to Teach History


"It cannot be emphasized too strongly or too often that this great nation was founded not by religionists, but by Christians; not on religions, but on the gospel of Jesus Christ." -Patrick Henry


Here at The Male Domain, we strongly believe it is essential to raise up a new generation for the Lord in order to ensure multi-generational faithfulness from our progeny. We know it is critically important to raise godly seed that will take their stand in the day of testing.

That's why I would like to introduce Patriot's Club.

Wednesday, September 22, 2010

An Industrious Young Lady

In a world filled with negative and unproductive role models for our daughters, it's refreshing to know that the LORD has saved a remnant who still aspire to greatness, and aim high in their calling as ladies.

Here, at The Male Domain, we wholeheartedly support families who are striving to serve the LORD with their time, talents, and treasures; and with that said, let me introduce you to Olde Angora - an industrious young lady you should get to know!

For the moms and daughters who frequent The Male Domain, I encourage you to spend some time looking over the beautiful products available on her site, and if able, make a purchase or two!

Monday, September 20, 2010

Had a BLAST at Father/Son Gun Shoot!

This past Saturday, my church hosted a Father/Son breakfast and Gun Shoot. It was a great time of discipleship masquerading as fun, which goes along way with boys. As a show of Christian charity, no one was shot who didn't deserve it. Here's a few pics from the day...

Ravi, Alex, and Stephen!
My brother-in-law, Robert!
My son, Ravi, in forefront!
Bible study before we shot guns!
Future men. My son, Stephen, in red sweater!
Brothers, Dan (forefront), and Evan (orange shirt)
My nephew, William!
My friend, Herb!
Yours truly, looking as masculine as ever! Lol

Friday, September 10, 2010

Husbands, Take Care of Your Homes

John MacArthur has a good word on Manhood that I think will bless your day. He challenges men to be the leader God has called them to be. Go to his blog and give it a listen by clicking here!

Monday, September 6, 2010

Influential, Or Easily Influenced?

in·flu·ence (the capacity or power of persons or things to be a compelling force on or produce effects on the actions, behavior, opinions, etc., of others:)

Are you easily persuaded? Do you go along to get along? Do you need everyone to like you? Do you try and please everyone?

If you answered Yes to most, or any of these, you aren't living like Christ. Jesus was the Red box in the picture. He was on a mission from the Father, and wasn't concerned about how others perceived him, because He knew, most perceptions don't equal reality. Jesus lived under God's authority, He accomplished God's will, and worrying about how others saw, or thought of him, wouldn't have allowed him to accomplish his mission.


As men, and as Christians in general, we must not be influenced to the point where we only do what makes others happy. We serve a Great and mighty God, who desires for us to do His will, not the will of His fallen, created beings. Don't be a people pleaser, be a God pleaser. Don't worry what others might think, worry what God thinks. Now, if people don't like you, it may not be because you're serving God, it could be because you're an undesirable person to be around, which has nothing to do with God. If that's the case, repent!


What decisions have you put off because you're uncertain what others might say? Have you made your family suffer needlessly because you've been cowardly about being a man and a leader in your home? Has your wife and children built up resentment toward you because you're unwilling to be unpopular and serve the Lord in certain areas of life?


Is your home structured how you know God wants it to be? 

Is your wife still working because you're not willing to let her come home?


Are your children still being educated by a godless government because you're not willing to do what it takes to instill in them a Christ centered education?


Is your home falling apart because you're too lazy to pick up a hammer and fix what needs to be fixed?


Are you finally ready to be the man God wants you to be, and ready to be of use in the kingdom of God?


Lead the crowd, don't follow it. Plot the course, don't wait for others to. Determine to serve God, don't look for others to. Be a leader who is following God's will for his life. You may not be very popular with those around you, but at least you know you're heading in the right direction!

 

 

 

Thursday, September 2, 2010

Educating Children Pt.4 - Education as Discipleship

In this, my last post on 'Educating Children,' I would like to write briefly about how the education of our children helps or hinders us as parents in our attempt to obey the scriptures and "bring up our children in the training and instruction of the Lord."

Over the years as a Father of 8 homeschooling children, I've been pleasantly observing the transitional language that those in the homeschool movement have begun to perpetuate.

I've seen the movement go from one of "homeschooling," to "home education," to "home discipleship." And I like the last statement the best. I believe it encapsulates what home educators are after. We're not trying to do public school at home, or trying to compete the public schools at all. We are after something much more significant. Much more substantial. Much more faithful to scripture.

Those families who we spend time with, who are also home educators, are after the multi-generational vision that the word of God sets forth for parents to pursue in the covenant relationship that they have with Him and their children.

The Lord doesn't save people to be cul-de-sacs. He saves them to be 6-way intersections, affecting lives in all direction. Telling others of His goodness, grace, mercy, forgiveness, and most of all His Son. And He expects parents to begin their missionary life by bringing up their children firmly grounded in His word, and thoroughly protected from those who would seek to harm them.

"...Remember the Lord who is great and awesome, and fight for your brothers, your sons, your daughters, your wives and your houses."
Nehemiah 4:14


Did you hear that Men? The Lord says to fight for your families, not to offer them on the alter of convenience in the name of education.

Use the 12+ years of educating your children as a precious time of molding them, shaping them, developing them, and directing them in the way they should go. The Lord promises that if we do this correctly, they will not depart from the faith when they get old! (Proverbs 22:6)

How sad it is when a Father and Mother hear the great commission in Mathew 28:19, and never think to begin with those living in the same household as them. If you think I'm exaggerating, think again. The following is true:
  • Between 75-88% of children growing up in Christian homes are leaving the faith by the end of their 2nd year of college.
  • Less than 1 out of 10 "churched" teenagers has a biblical worldview. (*Churched means they went to Sunday school and youth group for 13 years from ages 5-18)
  • The average Christian Father spends less than 1 minute a day engaged in conversation with each of his children.
  • Most Christian homes have no formal discipleship happening on a daily basis.
  • Most Christian homes don't do Family Devotions at all, let alone on a regular basis.
  • Fathers hearts aren't turned to their children as they are commanded to be in scripture. (Malachi 4:6)
Can we do better? absolutely! Will it be easy? nothing worthy is! Look to cross Men, and call upon the Lord for a fresh vision for your home!

Stand on His promises and enjoy the fruit of living under His sovereign Hand!

Monday, August 30, 2010

Educating Children Pt.3: Educational Jurisdiction

OK... Part 3.. this time we're looking at the topic of 'Educational Jurisdiction.' In other words, who has God given the responsibility to for the education of His children?

Let's begin with some verses:

Eph. 6:4 4 And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.

Deut. 6:4-9 4 ¶ Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God is one LORD: 5 And thou shalt love the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might. 6 And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: 7 And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up. {teach: Heb. whet, or, sharpen} 8 And thou shalt bind them for a sign upon thine hand, and they shall be as frontlets between thine eyes. 9 And thou shalt write them upon the posts of thy house, and on thy gates.

Prov. 22:6 6 ¶ Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it. (This verse is very specific in the meaning of the words for 'train up' and 'the way he should go.' The education he/she receives should help, not hinder, the child to accomplish that which God wants to see happen in the life of that child, namely, that they love him and serve him for their whole lives.)

Psalm 78:1-4 1 ¶ Maschil of Asaph. Give ear, O my people, to my law: incline your ears to the words of my mouth. {Maschil…: or, A Psalm for Asaph to give instruction}
2 I will open my mouth in a parable: I will utter dark sayings of old:
3 Which we have heard and known, and our fathers have told us.
4 We will not hide them from their children, shewing to the generation to come the praises of the LORD, and his strength, and his wonderful works that he hath done.

So we see that from the beginning, God's desires for the children of His children is that they be brought up in a covenantally faithful household, and a large part of the discipleship process is the how we educate our children.

We see this evidenced by what the Lord said of Abraham being covenantally faithful in the following verse: (Genesis 18:19 19 For I know him, that he will command his children and his household after him, and they shall keep the way of the LORD, to do justice and judgment; that the LORD may bring upon Abraham that which he hath spoken of him.)

Again, I'll repeat what I stated in another post, We as Christians cannot compartmentalize various areas of our lives and separate certain parts of them from the counsel of the Lord. Education is not spiritually neutral. In fact, education is inherently spiritual. Few things are more spiritual than education.

Why do Men who have a desire for ministry go to Bible college or seminary? Why not go to a government college? You know why! Because they wouldn't receive an education that would edify them and help them in their desire to serve the Lord faithfully in their calling. Right?

So is it different with our children? Don't they have a calling on their lives? Doesn't God desire for them to serve him faithfully all their lives, regardless of vocation? Yes He does. And he expects, no, let me rephrase that, He commands parents to help ensure that this happens and holds them directly responsible for how they turn out. For better or for worse!

The state has no jurisdiction over your children outside of keeping the rule of law. God didn't establish state governments to educate the children of His covenant members. In fact, he established it primarily to punish evil doers. So if you've been thinking that the state does have jurisdiction over the education of your children, they don't, You Do. Assume it, and set out on the path of giving your children a thoroughly biblical education. Your children may just thank you with their life for all eternity!

Friday, August 27, 2010

Educating Children Pt 2: The Pros and Cons of Public Schools, Private Schools and Home Schools!

OK, my 2nd post on 'Educating Children.' Today's title:

"The Pros and Cons of Public Schools, Private Schools, and Home Schools"

Hopefully, I'll be able to portray a pretty good picture of what I experienced in my own life as a public school student for 12+ years, and now a homeschooling Dad for 12+ years.

What I present is no way meant to be an exhaustive list of pros and cons, and may not accurately represent what you've experienced and have seen in your neck of the woods.

I understand that public schools in wealthier rural areas out perform public schools in poorer urban areas. My portrayal is based on national averages and overall behavioral patterns in general, not one district in particular.

We'll start with the pros and cons of Public or Government Schools, and end with the pros and cons of Home Schools.

Public or Government Schools:

Pros:
  • Already paid for by your tax dollars. Out of pocket expenses are kept to a minimum, and limited to such things as field trips and perhaps fund raiser events. Depending on school, you may have to purchase uniforms as well.
  • All the work is done for you. All you need to do is get 'em there. Either drive them yourself or have them ready for the school bus rain or shine.
  • Your days are just that, YOUR DAYS. No kids to disrupt you while watching TV, surfing the web, making calls, running errands, etc., etc..
  • Frees up Mom to pursue a career outside of the home where she can find her perceived happiness and true liberation from what the Lord says matters most.
Cons:

  • Unbiblical world view is taught to your child for 8 hours a day, 5 days a week, 9 months a year, for 12 years of their life.
  • Negative and evil peer pressures surround your child for time stated above.
  • Child is faced with all types of sin that most children are unable to walk away from because of immaturity and lack of time being trained by parents.
  • Innocents of child is lost at an age when unable to process the things they hear and see such as: sexual misconduct, vulgar language, homosexuality, immodest dress, poor character, rebellion to authority, rebellion toward God, hatred of God, etc.
  • Parents sin against child by placing them in an environment that is hostile toward what they believe and where the child will almost always be the one who's converted. A lack of charity toward our children is to sin against them.
  • Class sizes are about 1 teacher to 30+ students.
  • No biblical or jurisdictional authority over the education of your child.
  • Parental authority in the life of the child is almost completely obliterated.
  • Unnatural surroundings (age segregation) leave children ill-prepared for real world.
  • One size fits all approach to curriculum, learning styles, etc.
  • Virtually no one on one time with teachers unless they're deemed 'special need' or 'underachieving.'
  • Slave to schools calendar and schedule.
  • Child is forced to violate the commands in Psalm 1 which reads:
1 ¶ Blessed is the man Who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, Nor stands in the path of sinners, Nor sits in the seat of the scornful;
2 But his delight is in the law of the LORD, And in His law he meditates day and night.


Private Schools:


Pros:
  • The Same as for Public Schools, with the following added.
  • Teachers try harder because they're paid better.
  • In Christian Schools, at least the Teachers are suppose to have a biblical worlview. But according to the Barna Group, only about 20% of Evangelicals actually have a biblical worldview.
  • Facilities are better maintained than at public schools.
  • The sins of the students are more white-washed, giving the appearance of 'not-so-bad.'
Cons:
  • The same as for Public Schools with following added.
  • Students at Christian Private Schools act and think like their public school counterparts sending confusing signals to your child who you tell that the kids there are better because they're "Christian."
  • With so many "Christian" students doing 'it', 'it' must be ok for your child to do it, or so they think.
  • Many students there are there because their parents are hoping that private school will 'get out' what public school 'put in' for 8 years.
  • No biblical or jurisdictional authority over the education of your child.
  • Parental authority in the life of the child is weakened by time apart and by who the child views as "intelligent."
  • Financial Costs. Can leave many families financially burdened, especially larger families with multiple students attending.

Home Schools:


Pros:
  • Controlled environment.
  • Environment conducive to learning.
  • Child is taught by parent or co-op leader who is under the authority of Jesus.
  • Parent-child relationship strengthened throughout school year.
  • Authority of parents in child's life is established and strengthened .
  • One on one time of student/teacher.
  • Class size limited to number of children in family.
  • Curriculum tailored to child's' learning style(s).
  • Supremacy of God in academics upheld.
  • God's relevance in the world is taught to child throughout school year.
  • Superior academic performance on SAT, ACT.
  • Higher level of performance per grade level compared to public and private school students.
  • Hebrew method of discipleship (walk beside, talk beside) established in child's life.
  • Obedience to commands to "bring up" children "in the Lord". (Deut. 6: 4-9; Eph. 6:4)
  • Family vision impressed upon child without negative influence dissuading child from it.
  • Negative or ungodly behavior can be dealt with swiftly while still trainable.
  • Complete control over calendar and schedule.
  • Children mature much quicker.
  • Adapts much easier to people of all ages and genders.
  • And everything else I missed!
Cons:
  • Children can suffer if parents are lazy and undisciplined.
  • Parents don't take the eduction of their children seriously enough and leave child ill-prepared for life outside of home.
  • Some parents who opt for the "relaxed" method to home educate their children are so relaxed that they sleep thru entire year of school.
  • Boys can suffer identity issues and become feminine with Mom doing all the educating, if Dad isn't pro actively discipling his boys on how to Men and making them work hard outside of school.
  • Added cost of curriculum per child every year.
Again, these aren't exhaustive lists by any means. Just what I've seen and experienced in my own life and in the lives of those around me.

Share your thoughts and add to any list you'd like via a comment or two!