Faithful Fridays {FF} – Embracing Your God-given Gifts

It has definitely been on my heart lately to establish a blog that not only inspires outfits and fashion, but also one that inspires faithfulness. As I have recently reflected on my own life and walk with God, I’ve realized that I have slipped into the patterns of a lazy Christian where I regretfully became complacent with what I already “knew” about the Lord. I have too long been that hungry guy on the couch that is too lazy to make his own sandwich and waits for someone else to make it for him. And so this is my attempt to keep myself accountable in my own walk with the Lord. I pray that this step will not only help myself grow but you as well, whether you are a believer or not.

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Growing up, I’ve always been the one to compare myself with others — from my outward appearance down to my personality traits and personal gifts. I developed this mentality that always yearned to be the best at everything and began to grow envious of those with gifts and talents that I did not possess. What I did not realize was that in doing so, I hindered my God-given gifts because I kept trying to be something I was not, as well as trying to steal the glory for myself. I wasted my time trying to do and be everything that I did not fully embrace, practice, and use the gifts that God gave me.  Below are four points that I hope will be remind and encourage you to embrace the beautiful gifts that God appointed specifically to you and to use it for His glory.

1. God gives different people different gifts.
“We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us.” Romans 12:6 

2. Foster your gifts, use them, and develop them.
 “So it is with you. Since you are eager to have spiritual gifts, try to excel in gifts that build up the church.” 1 Corinthians 14:12

3. Don’t be envious of others.
“For who makes you different from anyone else? What do you have that you did not receive? And if you did receive it, why do you boast as though you did not?” 1 Corinthians 4:7 

 “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.” James 1:7

4. Use these gifts for God’s glory, not your own.
Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. 11 If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.” 1 Peter 4:10-11

Have a blessed July 4th weekend!

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For the Men: How to Buy Clothes for Women

Alright men, this is for you.

A male reader recently asked me to write a post about how to buy clothes for girls. Man, it’s hard enough to buy clothes for yourself let alone another person….let alone a girl!

Ok, here’s my take on the matter.

Please Don’t
1. Buy bottoms. – It’s really hard to find the right fit, so unless you know how to dress your girl to the T, don’t even try.
2. Bright and Outrageous Patterns/Prints – It’s hard to decide what pattern your girl may like
3. Generic gift sets – Shows no thought whatsoever.

Safe Bets:

Sweaters / Cardigans
You can’t go wrong with the size or shape.

1. Forever 21 $22.80 // 2. Lulu’s $63 // 3. Anthropologie $138

Chiffon/Silk  Loose blouses
Easy fit, good fabric, and feminine


1. Forever 21 $13.80 // 2. Old Navy $25  // 3. Ann Taylor $79

Graphic T’s
Comfy, relaxed, and shows creativity!


1. Old Navy $9.97  // 2. Lulu’s $28 // 3. Free People $68

Jewelry

You don’t necessarily need to give her diamonds…

1. Banana Republic $35 // 2. Anthropologie: $48 // 3. J. Crew $150

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I hope this was helpful and that you will feel confident when shopping for that special girl of yours. But please, if you decide to go with my advice despite the THOUSANDS of hints she gave you about the #1 thing on her wish list…don’t blame me.

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REMEMBER: If you have a styling question or an idea for a blog post, feel free to click the “Ask a Question” at the top of the page and ask away! I can’t wait to hear from you!

Custom Monogram

Okay, okay, this may be kind of selfish and too much like advertising, but if you’re in need of a last minute gift for someone in your life, I’ve got the answer for you! 🙂

Personalized Monogram Stationary

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This past summer, my group of friends parted ways to start our own new adventures. Goodbyes are hard, but the thought of how easy it is to keep in touch made it bearable. I decided to design simple monogram cards with colors that matched each and every one of my friends’ personalities. This way, there is no excuse not to write to each other. Granted, I am guilty of not sending anything yet. Sorry guys.

Well, now this design is officially open to order. I’m in the process of reopening my Etsy store. If you go there right now, there’s nothing listed. But if you’re interested in making any type of order, please email me at cross.n.dot@gmail.com and we can talk about what color and what letter you’d like and I’ll list a posting.

Ahh, I’m so excited for Christmas!

Be careful out there…Christmas Shopping is dangerous.

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Prices

Single: $3
Set of 6: $16.50
Set of 12: $30
Set of 24: $40

*Cards come with envelopes.

**Prices are comparable to Paper-Source Monogram cards. But I am bias because mine are handmade! 🙂