Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (Seattle)
Africa: Bill Gates' Speech at the World Food Prize Symposium
15 October 2009
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The following is a speech by Bill Gates, co-chair and trustee of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, delivered before an audience at the 2009 World Food Prize Symposium held in Des Moines, Iowa. You can watch the speech as it was delivered here.
Thank you very much, Ambassador Quinn, for that generous introduction. Thank you all for the honor of speaking to this distinguished audience.
Like all of you, when I made my plans to attend this symposium, I had hoped to be able to see Dr. Borlaug.
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His passing is cause for sadness, but his life should make us optimistic. In the middle of the 20th century, experts predicted famine and starvation, but they turned out to be wrong – because they did not predict Norman Borlaug. He not only showed humanity how to get more food from the earth – he proved that farming has the power to lift up the lives of the poor.
It's a lesson the world is thankfully relearning today.
I want to congratulate Dr. Ejeta for the discoveries in drought and pest-tolerant sorghum that earned him this year's Prize. I'd like to acknowledge Gordon Conway, whose book The Doubly Green Revolution got me enthused about this work. And I'd like to recognize the researchers, policymakers, and activists who have spent their lives fighting poverty and hunger through agriculture.
The world's attention is back on your cause.
Each of us here has come to our interest in agriculture along a different path. I would like to take a moment to explain how Melinda and I came to the work.
When we started our foundation, we agreed that our giving should be guided by our belief that all lives have equal value—that every person deserves the chance to live a healthy and productive life.
Manoocher Deghati/IRIN
Over time, our search for the greatest leverage brought us to the most compelling challenge in development: how do you help people who live on less than a dollar a day?
They face huge difficulties. How can they get some traction, so that their daily struggle can lead to a better life?
The answer is in the work they do. Three-quarters of the world's poorest people get their food and income by farming small plots of land. So if we can make small-holder farming more productive and more profitable, we can have a massive impact on hunger and nutrition and poverty.
Melinda and I believe that helping the poorest small-holder farmers grow more crops and get them to market is the world's single most powerful lever for reducing hunger and poverty.
Of course, the idea that better farming can end hunger and poverty is not new. It was demonstrated by Dr. Borlaug. It was honored with the Nobel Prize. It was called the Green Revolution, and it helped avert famine, save hundreds of millions of lives, and lift whole countries out of poverty.
It was one of the great achievements of the 20th century.Prepared Remarks by Bill Gates, co-chair and trustee
Thank you very much, Ambassador Quinn, for that generous introduction. Thank you all for the honor of speaking to this distinguished audience.
Like all of you, when I made my plans to attend this symposium, I had hoped to be able to see Dr. Borlaug.
GA_googleFillSlot( "AllAfrica_Story_InsetB" );
His passing is cause for sadness, but his life should make us optimistic. In the middle of the 20th century, experts predicted famine and starvation, but they turned out to be wrong – because they did not predict Norman Borlaug. He not only showed humanity how to get more food from the earth – he proved that farming has the power to lift up the lives of the poor.
It's a lesson the world is thankfully relearning today.
I want to congratulate Dr. Ejeta for the discoveries in drought and pest-tolerant sorghum that earned him this year's Prize. I'd like to acknowledge Gordon Conway, whose book The Doubly Green Revolution got me enthused about this work. And I'd like to recognize the researchers, policymakers, and activists who have spent their lives fighting poverty and hunger through agriculture.
The world's attention is back on your cause.
Each of us here has come to our interest in agriculture along a different path. I would like to take a moment to explain how Melinda and I came to the work.
When we started our foundation, we agreed that our giving should be guided by our belief that all lives have equal value—that every person deserves the chance to live a healthy and productive life.
GA_googleFillSlot( "AllAfrica_Story_InsetC" );
google_protectAndRun("render_ads.js::google_render_ad", google_handleError, google_render_ad);
Over time, our search for the greatest leverage brought us to the most compelling challenge in development: how do you help people who live on less than a dollar a day?
They face huge difficulties. How can they get some traction, so that their daily struggle can lead to a better life?
The answer is in the work they do. Three-quarters of the world's poorest people get their food and income by farming small plots of land. So if we can make small-holder farming more productive and more profitable, we can have a massive impact on hunger and nutrition and poverty.
Melinda and I believe that helping the poorest small-holder farmers grow more crops and get them to market is the world's single most powerful lever for reducing hunger and poverty.
Of course, the idea that better farming can end hunger and poverty is not new. It was demonstrated by Dr. Borlaug. It was honored with the Nobel Prize. It was called the Green Revolution, and it helped avert famine, save hundreds of millions of lives, and lift whole countries out of poverty.
It was one of the great achievements of the 20th century.
But it didn't go far enough.
It didn't go to Africa.
GA_googleFillSlot( "AllAfrica_Story_InsetD" );
Africa is the only place where per capita cereal yields have been flat over the last 25 years. The average farmer in sub-Saharan Africa gets just over half a ton of cereal per acre. An Indian farmer gets twice that; a Chinese farmer, four times that; an American farmer; five times that.
The technology and new approaches that are transforming agriculture in other parts of the world can be applied in new ways, and help Africa flourish too.
Now is the time. The food crisis has forced hunger higher on the world's agenda. From NGOs to the G8 to African Heads of State – there is a rush of new commitment.
But there is also trouble.
This global effort to help small farmers is endangered by an ideological wedge that threatens to split the movement in two.
On one side is a technological approach that increases productivity.
On the other side is an environmental approach that promotes sustainability.
Productivity or sustainability – they say you have to choose.
It's a false choice, and it's dangerous for the field. It blocks important advances. It breeds hostility among people who need to work together. And it makes it hard to launch a comprehensive program to help poor farmers.
The fact is, we need both productivity and sustainability – and there is no reason we can't have both.
Relevant Links
Food and Agriculture
Agribusiness
Science
Sustainable Development
NGO
International Organisations
Sustainable Development
Business
Many environmental voices have rightly highlighted the excesses of the original Green Revolution. They warn against the dangers of too much irrigation or fertilizer. They caution against a consolidation of farms that could crowd out small-holder farmers.
These are important points, and they underscore a crucial fact: the next Green Revolution has to be greener than the first. It must be guided by small-holder farmers, adapted to local circumstances, and sustainable for the economy and the environment.
Let me repeat that. The next Green Revolution must be guided by small-holder farmers, adapted to local circumstances, and sustainable for the economy and the environment.
The last thing anyone should do is create short-term gains for poor farmers that have long-term costs for their children.
That's why our foundation works closely with local farmers' groups. And that's why we are one of the largest funders of sustainable approaches such as no-till farming, rainwater harvesting, drip irrigation, and biological nitrogen fixation.Page 1 of 7123>Last »
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
THE VIRTUOS WOMAN
THE VIRTUOS WOMAN
She’s the Photograph of integrity
The Picture of Dignity
An Epitome of Beauty
A Quintessence of Quality
Her elegance is startling
Her gait is dazzling
Her beauty is always radiating
Her smiles are inviting
She’s the virtuous woman
A mirror image of her man
She’s the queen of his heart
And there’s no disputing the fact
She’s always on the high energy
To give him the needed synergy
Her countenance is like the moon in full glory
Behind her is a good story
In days of pain she comforts him
When the storms hit, she calms him
With her warm embrace she says, ”I’m always here for you
For the one I love is you"
Her voice in the ears of her husband is a symphony
But to the strumpet, a cacophony
She’s not jostled by the aura of the strumpet
Nor moved by the noise of the city’s trumpet
She’s far from the prostitute
Not at all a destitute
She’s not randy, not at all
But being a faithful wife is her call
Though the task may be tedious
She’s destiny conscious
She’s purpose driven
She makes the best out of what she’s given
To her children…. She’s their fortress
To her husband…A place of rest
To the society…A contributor
To humanity…. Love’s distributor
She’s does not destroy but builds
She does not cause pain but heals
She’s does not litigate but serves
Nothing but the best she deserves
In her is excellence distilled
In her spirit is confidence instilled
She does not reduce
But rather she produces
She delights in providing for her household
She keeps the aura of her home warm; not cold
Her husband is known by the city’s gate
She gives him her best in their every day’s date
She influences good decisions
She handles petitions
She plans well; not at all a miser
She seeks wisdom in order to be wiser
In appearance, she’s irresistible
In the face of storms, she’s unconquerable
Her plans for success are impeccable
Above all, with God, she’s able
She fears the good Lord
She has found it a wise thing to hearken to His voice
In doing so, she makes better her choice
All in all, she’s a good gift from a good God
Her husband she satisfies
Wrong choices she nullifies
Her objectives she specifies
The goodness of God she testifies
Her presence dissolves puzzles
She’s not so much into hustles
But in her treasures, are the spices of life
And this makes her a good wife
The man that finds her is blessed
In God’s sight, he has found favour
This adds to his life’s flavour
What else do we call him than blessed?
A gossiper, she’s not
To deceive people, she would not
In God presence, she enjoys the fiesta
‘Cause there, there’s no siesta
In thinking she’s rational
Serving God, is not optional
The virtuous woman
She’s not common
The virtuous woman
She exist
Her person, you can’t resist
She was made for a good man
She’s chaste
She’s pursued, not chased
She cares
And proves to be rare
His greatness, she does not stifle
His longetivity, she does not cut short with a sickle
She’s there to bless him
She’s heaven on earth for him
She sighs at evil
Not a cohort to the devil
She neither smokes, drink nor gamble
For she knows that such acts reduce you to rubbles.
She celebrates excellence
Because she has spirited resilience
She prepares for new seasons
So that change would not put her in a prison.
Her husband is at home with her
His thought of her does not whither
She gives him the necessary attention
And together, they build a generation.
She has a strong sense of purpose
And that’s why she’s focused
That’s why in managing time
She’s sublime.
Life is a battle that must be won
That’s why she’s never on the run
Because in every case she has a plan
And with God’s help her results are never bland.
She runs to the Lord’s throne to seek His face
To obtain the needed favour and grace
To face the crisis and challenges of life
So that she will not to any trouble; nose dive.
Jesus is her Master
Her submission to Him is like salt and water
Christ has taught her husband how to love her
That’s why he can stick out his neck for her.
THE SEVEN C's OF SUCCESS by Brian TracyAfter having studied top achievers and peak performers over the past 25 years, I've concluded that these unique men and women have, in most cases, mastered what I call the Seven C's of Success.Clarity - Eighty percent of success comes from being clear on who you are, what you believe in and what you want.Competence - You can't climb to the next rung on the ladder until you are excellent at what you do now.Constraints - Eighty percent of all obstacles to success come from within. Find out what is constraining in you or your company and deal with it.
Concentration - The ability to focus on one thing single-mindedly and see it through until it's done takes more character than anything else.Creativity - Flood your life with ideas from many sources. Creativity needs to be exercised like a muscle, if you don't use it you'll lose it.Courage - Most in demand and least in supply, courage is the willingness to do the things you know are right. Continuous learning – Read, at the very least, one book a week on business to keep you miles ahead of the competition. And just as you eat and bathe, organize your time so you spend 30 minutes a day exploring e-mail, sending messages, going through web sites, because like exercise, it's the only way you can keep on top of technology. If you get away from it, you'll lose your edge.
She’s the Photograph of integrity
The Picture of Dignity
An Epitome of Beauty
A Quintessence of Quality
Her elegance is startling
Her gait is dazzling
Her beauty is always radiating
Her smiles are inviting
She’s the virtuous woman
A mirror image of her man
She’s the queen of his heart
And there’s no disputing the fact
She’s always on the high energy
To give him the needed synergy
Her countenance is like the moon in full glory
Behind her is a good story
In days of pain she comforts him
When the storms hit, she calms him
With her warm embrace she says, ”I’m always here for you
For the one I love is you"
Her voice in the ears of her husband is a symphony
But to the strumpet, a cacophony
She’s not jostled by the aura of the strumpet
Nor moved by the noise of the city’s trumpet
She’s far from the prostitute
Not at all a destitute
She’s not randy, not at all
But being a faithful wife is her call
Though the task may be tedious
She’s destiny conscious
She’s purpose driven
She makes the best out of what she’s given
To her children…. She’s their fortress
To her husband…A place of rest
To the society…A contributor
To humanity…. Love’s distributor
She’s does not destroy but builds
She does not cause pain but heals
She’s does not litigate but serves
Nothing but the best she deserves
In her is excellence distilled
In her spirit is confidence instilled
She does not reduce
But rather she produces
She delights in providing for her household
She keeps the aura of her home warm; not cold
Her husband is known by the city’s gate
She gives him her best in their every day’s date
She influences good decisions
She handles petitions
She plans well; not at all a miser
She seeks wisdom in order to be wiser
In appearance, she’s irresistible
In the face of storms, she’s unconquerable
Her plans for success are impeccable
Above all, with God, she’s able
She fears the good Lord
She has found it a wise thing to hearken to His voice
In doing so, she makes better her choice
All in all, she’s a good gift from a good God
Her husband she satisfies
Wrong choices she nullifies
Her objectives she specifies
The goodness of God she testifies
Her presence dissolves puzzles
She’s not so much into hustles
But in her treasures, are the spices of life
And this makes her a good wife
The man that finds her is blessed
In God’s sight, he has found favour
This adds to his life’s flavour
What else do we call him than blessed?
A gossiper, she’s not
To deceive people, she would not
In God presence, she enjoys the fiesta
‘Cause there, there’s no siesta
In thinking she’s rational
Serving God, is not optional
The virtuous woman
She’s not common
The virtuous woman
She exist
Her person, you can’t resist
She was made for a good man
She’s chaste
She’s pursued, not chased
She cares
And proves to be rare
His greatness, she does not stifle
His longetivity, she does not cut short with a sickle
She’s there to bless him
She’s heaven on earth for him
She sighs at evil
Not a cohort to the devil
She neither smokes, drink nor gamble
For she knows that such acts reduce you to rubbles.
She celebrates excellence
Because she has spirited resilience
She prepares for new seasons
So that change would not put her in a prison.
Her husband is at home with her
His thought of her does not whither
She gives him the necessary attention
And together, they build a generation.
She has a strong sense of purpose
And that’s why she’s focused
That’s why in managing time
She’s sublime.
Life is a battle that must be won
That’s why she’s never on the run
Because in every case she has a plan
And with God’s help her results are never bland.
She runs to the Lord’s throne to seek His face
To obtain the needed favour and grace
To face the crisis and challenges of life
So that she will not to any trouble; nose dive.
Jesus is her Master
Her submission to Him is like salt and water
Christ has taught her husband how to love her
That’s why he can stick out his neck for her.
THE SEVEN C's OF SUCCESS by Brian TracyAfter having studied top achievers and peak performers over the past 25 years, I've concluded that these unique men and women have, in most cases, mastered what I call the Seven C's of Success.Clarity - Eighty percent of success comes from being clear on who you are, what you believe in and what you want.Competence - You can't climb to the next rung on the ladder until you are excellent at what you do now.Constraints - Eighty percent of all obstacles to success come from within. Find out what is constraining in you or your company and deal with it.
Concentration - The ability to focus on one thing single-mindedly and see it through until it's done takes more character than anything else.Creativity - Flood your life with ideas from many sources. Creativity needs to be exercised like a muscle, if you don't use it you'll lose it.Courage - Most in demand and least in supply, courage is the willingness to do the things you know are right. Continuous learning – Read, at the very least, one book a week on business to keep you miles ahead of the competition. And just as you eat and bathe, organize your time so you spend 30 minutes a day exploring e-mail, sending messages, going through web sites, because like exercise, it's the only way you can keep on top of technology. If you get away from it, you'll lose your edge.
Friday, February 12, 2010
Boys bodies
Boys bodies
What is the average penis size?The first thing to say is that there is a massive variation in the size of the un-erect penis for both boys and men. In the same way that everybody is a different height, weight and build, the same applies for penis size. Everybody develops at a different rate, everybody is different. To give you some guidance though, research has shown that whatever the size of the un-erect penis, over 90% of them grow to between 14-18 cm (about 6 inches) when erect. And remember, a boy's body doesn't stop growing till he's around 20 years old.
What is circumcision?Circumcision is an operation carried out on some boys and involves removing the piece of skin called the foreskin that covers the tip of the penis. Most circumcisions are done on boy babies when they are just a few weeks old, but this operation is sometimes performed at a later stage of life for medical reasons. In the UK it is usually only done for religious reasons and is most common amongst Jews and Muslims. It is nothing to worry about and in fact nearly half the men in the world have probably been circumcised — so don't feel like you're the odd one out. Circumcision of women is a practice that takes place in some parts of western and southern Asia, the Middle East and Africa. It is widely considered to be dangerous and is illegal in Britain and in many other parts of the world.
I have spots on my penis and it itches. Is this normal?If you have had sex without using a condom recently then it would be advisable to visit your local NHS Sexual Health (GUM) clinic, GP, nurse, Young Persons' Sexual Health, or Family Planning clinic as you may have picked up an STI. Lots of boys have normal lumps and bumps in their penis, or it could be that it is something simple like an allergy or an irritation. But if you have concerns, or there are any changes in your genitalia you should seek advice from a doctor or clinic. Remember that medical people see problems like this every day so there is nothing to be embarrassed about.
Is it normal for my penis to smell fishy and have white things behind the head of the bell end?No it's not normal, but this can happen from time to time, so make sure you wash behind the foreskin when you bath or shower. Doing so will prevent any smegma from building up. If you are washing carefully and the symptoms don't go away, make an appointment to see the doctor, or visit your local NHS Sexual Health (GUM), Young Persons' Sexual Health, or Family Planning clinic.
What is sperm?Sperm is produced in a boy's testicles and released during sexual activity. Every time a man ejaculates (cums) he produces up to 100 million sperm — but it only takes one of these to get a girl pregnant, and that can happen even before the boy cums! If you are having sex always use contraception — and remember that only condoms can protect against both pregnancy and STIs.
Is it normal to get an erection when you wake up in the morning?Yes, most boys will have a hard on when they wake up in the morning and they can get one when they're not expecting it during the day too. This is just a normal part of growing up and sexual development.
Is it normal to have one testicle smaller than the other?It is common to have one testicle smaller than the other, or one hanging down lower. No one has a perfect body so don't worry about what is supposed to be 'normal'.
How do I know if I have testicular cancer?You should check yourself regularly and if you find any lumps or irregularities, or a feeling of numbness/tenderness, you need to be checked by your doctor.
What's premature ejaculation?This is when a boy ejaculates (cums) during sex before he wants to i.e. during foreplay, or very soon after he has started having sex. This is fairly common and can be due to nerves or just over excitement. Foreplay or being in a relaxing situation can help and many men say that wearing a condom can help prevent premature ejaculation. If you are worried about this then go and see your local doctor, nurse, NHS Sexual Health (GUM), Young Persons' Sexual Health, or Family Planning clinic. And remember you can get free and confidential advice whatever your age — even if you are under 16.
What age do you go through puberty?Puberty describes all the changes a person goes through from being a child into a young adult. Every young person's experience of this is different as everyone grows and develops at different rates. Everyone will have different amounts of body hair and everyone will have different sized bits so don't worry about what is normal. You would probably start to notice changes at age 11 upwards, but there is no right or wrong time to start. If you want to speak to someone about puberty then visit your local doctor, nurse, or a NHS Sexual Health (GUM), Young Persons' Sexual Health, or Family Planning clinic. And remember advice is free and confidential even if you are under 16. Alternatively you can ring the helpline specially set up for people under 18.
Can you pee while having sex?No. During sex a valve shuts your bladder down so sperm can get through the channel you'd normally use to pee.
Why is it harder to ejaculate when you have sex a second time in the same evening? If you have sex a second time straight after the first it can take longer for a boy to cum or reach orgasm. This is just a natural part of the body's workings. If you are worried about this then just take longer breaks after each time you have sex. Whether it is the first, second, third or tenth time you have had sex that day, though, always use a new condom to protect against unplanned pregnancy and STIs
What is the average penis size?The first thing to say is that there is a massive variation in the size of the un-erect penis for both boys and men. In the same way that everybody is a different height, weight and build, the same applies for penis size. Everybody develops at a different rate, everybody is different. To give you some guidance though, research has shown that whatever the size of the un-erect penis, over 90% of them grow to between 14-18 cm (about 6 inches) when erect. And remember, a boy's body doesn't stop growing till he's around 20 years old.
What is circumcision?Circumcision is an operation carried out on some boys and involves removing the piece of skin called the foreskin that covers the tip of the penis. Most circumcisions are done on boy babies when they are just a few weeks old, but this operation is sometimes performed at a later stage of life for medical reasons. In the UK it is usually only done for religious reasons and is most common amongst Jews and Muslims. It is nothing to worry about and in fact nearly half the men in the world have probably been circumcised — so don't feel like you're the odd one out. Circumcision of women is a practice that takes place in some parts of western and southern Asia, the Middle East and Africa. It is widely considered to be dangerous and is illegal in Britain and in many other parts of the world.
I have spots on my penis and it itches. Is this normal?If you have had sex without using a condom recently then it would be advisable to visit your local NHS Sexual Health (GUM) clinic, GP, nurse, Young Persons' Sexual Health, or Family Planning clinic as you may have picked up an STI. Lots of boys have normal lumps and bumps in their penis, or it could be that it is something simple like an allergy or an irritation. But if you have concerns, or there are any changes in your genitalia you should seek advice from a doctor or clinic. Remember that medical people see problems like this every day so there is nothing to be embarrassed about.
Is it normal for my penis to smell fishy and have white things behind the head of the bell end?No it's not normal, but this can happen from time to time, so make sure you wash behind the foreskin when you bath or shower. Doing so will prevent any smegma from building up. If you are washing carefully and the symptoms don't go away, make an appointment to see the doctor, or visit your local NHS Sexual Health (GUM), Young Persons' Sexual Health, or Family Planning clinic.
What is sperm?Sperm is produced in a boy's testicles and released during sexual activity. Every time a man ejaculates (cums) he produces up to 100 million sperm — but it only takes one of these to get a girl pregnant, and that can happen even before the boy cums! If you are having sex always use contraception — and remember that only condoms can protect against both pregnancy and STIs.
Is it normal to get an erection when you wake up in the morning?Yes, most boys will have a hard on when they wake up in the morning and they can get one when they're not expecting it during the day too. This is just a normal part of growing up and sexual development.
Is it normal to have one testicle smaller than the other?It is common to have one testicle smaller than the other, or one hanging down lower. No one has a perfect body so don't worry about what is supposed to be 'normal'.
How do I know if I have testicular cancer?You should check yourself regularly and if you find any lumps or irregularities, or a feeling of numbness/tenderness, you need to be checked by your doctor.
What's premature ejaculation?This is when a boy ejaculates (cums) during sex before he wants to i.e. during foreplay, or very soon after he has started having sex. This is fairly common and can be due to nerves or just over excitement. Foreplay or being in a relaxing situation can help and many men say that wearing a condom can help prevent premature ejaculation. If you are worried about this then go and see your local doctor, nurse, NHS Sexual Health (GUM), Young Persons' Sexual Health, or Family Planning clinic. And remember you can get free and confidential advice whatever your age — even if you are under 16.
What age do you go through puberty?Puberty describes all the changes a person goes through from being a child into a young adult. Every young person's experience of this is different as everyone grows and develops at different rates. Everyone will have different amounts of body hair and everyone will have different sized bits so don't worry about what is normal. You would probably start to notice changes at age 11 upwards, but there is no right or wrong time to start. If you want to speak to someone about puberty then visit your local doctor, nurse, or a NHS Sexual Health (GUM), Young Persons' Sexual Health, or Family Planning clinic. And remember advice is free and confidential even if you are under 16. Alternatively you can ring the helpline specially set up for people under 18.
Can you pee while having sex?No. During sex a valve shuts your bladder down so sperm can get through the channel you'd normally use to pee.
Why is it harder to ejaculate when you have sex a second time in the same evening? If you have sex a second time straight after the first it can take longer for a boy to cum or reach orgasm. This is just a natural part of the body's workings. If you are worried about this then just take longer breaks after each time you have sex. Whether it is the first, second, third or tenth time you have had sex that day, though, always use a new condom to protect against unplanned pregnancy and STIs
Girls bodies
Girls bodies
What age do you go through puberty?Puberty describes all the changes a person goes through from being a child (from age 10 upwards) until they are a young adult. Every young person's experience of this is different as everyone grows and develops at different rates. Everyone will have different amounts of body hair and everyone will have different size bits so don't worry about what is normal. You would probably start to notice changes from age 10 upwards, but there is no right or wrong time to start. If you want to speak to someone about puberty then visit your local GP, nurse or young person's clinic — advice is free and confidential even if you are under 16. Alternatively you can call our helpline for free advice on 0800 28 29 30.
Is discharge from the vagina normal? Yes this is perfectly normal — girls start to increase the amount of discharge (fluid) they produce as they go through puberty and the hormones start to work on the glands in the vagina and neck of the womb. Before puberty most girls have very little discharge. After puberty what is normal for one girl will not be normal for another. Some produce a lot of fluid whilst others produce very little. The purpose of the fluid is to keep the vaginal area moist and to protect against damage or infection. Throughout the month you will notice it varies a little in colour, what it feels like, how sticky it is and how much of it there is. It's not normal if the discharge becomes smelly, itchy or a different colour than usual. All these may mean you have an infection especially if you have put yourself at risk by having sex without using a condom. If the discharge seems different from what is normal for you then you should see a doctor or nurse — advice is free and confidential even if you are under 16.
Is my period normal?Every girl's period is different. Some people have a period for three days, others can last a week. Some periods can be very light, whereas others can be very heavy. If your periods are heavy/clotted and painful then you should speak to your doctor.
When should you start your periods?Girls can start their periods from around the age of 10 to 16. As everyone develops at different rates, there is no right or wrong age for a girl to start. If you want to speak to someone about your periods then visit your local GP, nurse or young person's clinic - advice is free and confidential even if you are under 16. Alternatively you can call our helpline for free advice on 0800 28 29 30.
Are my breasts too small?Every woman is different and all bodies develop at different rates so don't worry about what size is normal. Whatever size your breasts are is right for your body.
My period is late/irregular.The best thing to do if you are worried about your period is to visit your doctor or local clinic. Girls' periods can be irregular for many different reasons including stress and diet, but if you have had sex without using contraception and your period is late you should take a pregnancy test as soon as possible — you can get one from your local doctor or clinic.
How do I know if I have breast cancer?You should check your breasts regularly and if you find any lumps or bumps, or a feeling of numbness/tenderness, you need to be checked by your doctor. Click here to find out how to do a breast self examination.
When do I have to have a cervical smear test?A cervical smear is a test where some cells are taken from a girl's cervix to check for changes that could lead to cervical cancer. The test is usually offered to girls from age 25 onwards, every three to five years.
What is the hymen? A piece of tissue within the girl's vagina. Every girl is born with a hymen, but it may not break during sex — it can also break when using tampons, playing sport or during other activities.
Do you put on weight taking the pill?The contraceptive pill works by controlling the hormones in a girl's body and this can change your appetite, which sometimes causes weight change. However, everyone's body is different and this may not happen to you at all. The best thing to do is to visit a doctor or clinic where they will be able to give you loads of information about the pill. Remember you can get free and confidential advice about sex, contraception and abortion even if you are under 16.
Can you get pregnant if you have sex during your period or if it is your first time?Yes. A girl can get pregnant anytime. Always use contraception — remember only condoms can protect you from both STIs and pregnancy.
What should you use when your periods start?To be prepared for your first period, you should have a supply of sanitary towels or tampons in your bag. Sanitary towels line your knickers to soak up the blood as it leaves the vagina, and tampons are inserted inside the vagina to soak up the blood there. There are different kinds of towels and tampons for different blood flows (e.g. light, medium, heavy). Use whatever you find most comfortable — you'll find instructions on how to use them properly on the packets and you'll soon get used to them. You can buy towels and tampons in chemists, supermarkets, even some newsagents and garages.
Most girls have their first period when they're between 9 and 16. It's normal, natural and healthy. Some girls will bleed more than others and bleeding can last anything from 3 to 10 days every month. When your periods start they might not come regularly but eventually they should come around the same time each month.
If you get period pains or very heavy bleeding, stretching exercises or a hot water bottle on your tummy can help. If you notice a change in mood, or in the way your body feels leading up to your period, it is probably something called Pre-menstrual tension (PMT) or Pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS).
During a period, you should change your towel or tampon several times a day. People may try to scare you with tales of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS), a very rare illness which can be caused by leaving tampons in too long. There have been very, very few cases of TSS in the UK and as long as you change tampons regularly, say every 4—6 hours and wash your hands before inserting your tampon, you should have nothing to worry about.
If you're worried about anything to do with periods or want any more information, it might help to have a chat with an older woman like your mum, your big sister, the school nurse or a teacher. Or, of course, your doctor or local clinic will be happy to help.
What is the clitoris?The clitoris is an incredibly sensitive organ at the front of a girl's vulva. Touching and stimulating the clitoris with your hands or fingers can give strong feelings of sexual pleasure and this is how most girls masturbate. Most girls need direct stimulation of the clitoris to have an orgasm during sex.
What do you want to know?
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What age do you go through puberty?Puberty describes all the changes a person goes through from being a child (from age 10 upwards) until they are a young adult. Every young person's experience of this is different as everyone grows and develops at different rates. Everyone will have different amounts of body hair and everyone will have different size bits so don't worry about what is normal. You would probably start to notice changes from age 10 upwards, but there is no right or wrong time to start. If you want to speak to someone about puberty then visit your local GP, nurse or young person's clinic — advice is free and confidential even if you are under 16. Alternatively you can call our helpline for free advice on 0800 28 29 30.
Is discharge from the vagina normal? Yes this is perfectly normal — girls start to increase the amount of discharge (fluid) they produce as they go through puberty and the hormones start to work on the glands in the vagina and neck of the womb. Before puberty most girls have very little discharge. After puberty what is normal for one girl will not be normal for another. Some produce a lot of fluid whilst others produce very little. The purpose of the fluid is to keep the vaginal area moist and to protect against damage or infection. Throughout the month you will notice it varies a little in colour, what it feels like, how sticky it is and how much of it there is. It's not normal if the discharge becomes smelly, itchy or a different colour than usual. All these may mean you have an infection especially if you have put yourself at risk by having sex without using a condom. If the discharge seems different from what is normal for you then you should see a doctor or nurse — advice is free and confidential even if you are under 16.
Is my period normal?Every girl's period is different. Some people have a period for three days, others can last a week. Some periods can be very light, whereas others can be very heavy. If your periods are heavy/clotted and painful then you should speak to your doctor.
When should you start your periods?Girls can start their periods from around the age of 10 to 16. As everyone develops at different rates, there is no right or wrong age for a girl to start. If you want to speak to someone about your periods then visit your local GP, nurse or young person's clinic - advice is free and confidential even if you are under 16. Alternatively you can call our helpline for free advice on 0800 28 29 30.
Are my breasts too small?Every woman is different and all bodies develop at different rates so don't worry about what size is normal. Whatever size your breasts are is right for your body.
My period is late/irregular.The best thing to do if you are worried about your period is to visit your doctor or local clinic. Girls' periods can be irregular for many different reasons including stress and diet, but if you have had sex without using contraception and your period is late you should take a pregnancy test as soon as possible — you can get one from your local doctor or clinic.
How do I know if I have breast cancer?You should check your breasts regularly and if you find any lumps or bumps, or a feeling of numbness/tenderness, you need to be checked by your doctor. Click here to find out how to do a breast self examination.
When do I have to have a cervical smear test?A cervical smear is a test where some cells are taken from a girl's cervix to check for changes that could lead to cervical cancer. The test is usually offered to girls from age 25 onwards, every three to five years.
What is the hymen? A piece of tissue within the girl's vagina. Every girl is born with a hymen, but it may not break during sex — it can also break when using tampons, playing sport or during other activities.
Do you put on weight taking the pill?The contraceptive pill works by controlling the hormones in a girl's body and this can change your appetite, which sometimes causes weight change. However, everyone's body is different and this may not happen to you at all. The best thing to do is to visit a doctor or clinic where they will be able to give you loads of information about the pill. Remember you can get free and confidential advice about sex, contraception and abortion even if you are under 16.
Can you get pregnant if you have sex during your period or if it is your first time?Yes. A girl can get pregnant anytime. Always use contraception — remember only condoms can protect you from both STIs and pregnancy.
What should you use when your periods start?To be prepared for your first period, you should have a supply of sanitary towels or tampons in your bag. Sanitary towels line your knickers to soak up the blood as it leaves the vagina, and tampons are inserted inside the vagina to soak up the blood there. There are different kinds of towels and tampons for different blood flows (e.g. light, medium, heavy). Use whatever you find most comfortable — you'll find instructions on how to use them properly on the packets and you'll soon get used to them. You can buy towels and tampons in chemists, supermarkets, even some newsagents and garages.
Most girls have their first period when they're between 9 and 16. It's normal, natural and healthy. Some girls will bleed more than others and bleeding can last anything from 3 to 10 days every month. When your periods start they might not come regularly but eventually they should come around the same time each month.
If you get period pains or very heavy bleeding, stretching exercises or a hot water bottle on your tummy can help. If you notice a change in mood, or in the way your body feels leading up to your period, it is probably something called Pre-menstrual tension (PMT) or Pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS).
During a period, you should change your towel or tampon several times a day. People may try to scare you with tales of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS), a very rare illness which can be caused by leaving tampons in too long. There have been very, very few cases of TSS in the UK and as long as you change tampons regularly, say every 4—6 hours and wash your hands before inserting your tampon, you should have nothing to worry about.
If you're worried about anything to do with periods or want any more information, it might help to have a chat with an older woman like your mum, your big sister, the school nurse or a teacher. Or, of course, your doctor or local clinic will be happy to help.
What is the clitoris?The clitoris is an incredibly sensitive organ at the front of a girl's vulva. Touching and stimulating the clitoris with your hands or fingers can give strong feelings of sexual pleasure and this is how most girls masturbate. Most girls need direct stimulation of the clitoris to have an orgasm during sex.
What do you want to know?
Popular pages
Getting good with girls
Getting good with girls
Having sex is one thing, making your relationship go the distance and staying happy in it is another. Sometimes you need to talk about life’s serious stuff – like the first time you do it, contraception, or the ‘L’ word. Finding out how to talk about serious stuff with your girlfriend will keep you both happy, and she’ll respect you for it.
The right time
Just because you’re in a relationship, doesn’t mean you have to have sex – or that your girlfriend does. And even if you’ve done it once or twice, you still need to make sure she’s as keen as you are every time.
If you agree with the following – the time may be right:
It feels right.She loves me as much as I love her.We’ve talked about using condoms.I’m not under pressure.I won’t regret it tomorrowI’m not just trying to impress my mates.I’m not doing it to make her stay with me.I can stop at any point, and she’ll be fine with that.
Read more:What makes a relationship work?
Become a kissing master
Once you’ve got that first, awkward kiss out of the way, you can practice getting great at kissing!
Kissing’s one of the best bits about a relationship. As you get more used to kissing each other, you can try it with tongues or even kiss her cheeks, nose and neck in between snogs.
Be gentle when using your tongue for the first time – you want to make sure she likes it rather than sticking it down her throat!
Kissing can lead to more serious stuff, but it doesn’t have to. If she’s pushing you to take things further, talk to someone you trust.
What’s going through her mind?
Sex is a big deal for both of you – but what’s going through your girlfriend’s mind?
Trust: Most girls want to have sex with someone they love, care about and trust, taking things slowly and bonding first.
Naked truth: Lots of girls find getting their kit off in front of someone else really scary - if you think she looks great, tell her.
Baby worries: Most girls under 18 don’t want to get pregnant – carrying a condom shows you respect her and are being sensible.
Foreplay: Sex is an emotional experience for girls – they want to feel loved and respected. Spend time kissing and cuddling and don’t rush into anything until you’re both ready.
No pressure: Always take her feelings into account, never pressuring her into sex, even if you’ve done it before.
All the fun without the risks
You don’t have to go all the way to have a good time. Having sex isn’t just about penetration, there are loads of ways to enjoy sex - and they can be less risky than full-sex too.
Building up to sexIf you and your girlfriend are close enough, but still getting to know each other, kissing, touching and gradually building up to oral sex is just as much fun as going all the way. There’s no risk of pregnancy and less chance of you getting an STI.
There’s no rushEnjoying foreplay without penetration helps you relax and get to know what she does and doesn’t like. It also gives you time to decide if she’s the right person to go all the way with.
A guy's point of view
Chlamydia and the Genital Warts virus are two of the most common STIs in teenagers .
You should never give oral sex if you have sores, cuts or ulcers on your mouth or genitals – remember, you can’t get pregnant by having oral sex but you can catch STIs.
Having sex is one thing, making your relationship go the distance and staying happy in it is another. Sometimes you need to talk about life’s serious stuff – like the first time you do it, contraception, or the ‘L’ word. Finding out how to talk about serious stuff with your girlfriend will keep you both happy, and she’ll respect you for it.
The right time
Just because you’re in a relationship, doesn’t mean you have to have sex – or that your girlfriend does. And even if you’ve done it once or twice, you still need to make sure she’s as keen as you are every time.
If you agree with the following – the time may be right:
It feels right.She loves me as much as I love her.We’ve talked about using condoms.I’m not under pressure.I won’t regret it tomorrowI’m not just trying to impress my mates.I’m not doing it to make her stay with me.I can stop at any point, and she’ll be fine with that.
Read more:What makes a relationship work?
Become a kissing master
Once you’ve got that first, awkward kiss out of the way, you can practice getting great at kissing!
Kissing’s one of the best bits about a relationship. As you get more used to kissing each other, you can try it with tongues or even kiss her cheeks, nose and neck in between snogs.
Be gentle when using your tongue for the first time – you want to make sure she likes it rather than sticking it down her throat!
Kissing can lead to more serious stuff, but it doesn’t have to. If she’s pushing you to take things further, talk to someone you trust.
What’s going through her mind?
Sex is a big deal for both of you – but what’s going through your girlfriend’s mind?
Trust: Most girls want to have sex with someone they love, care about and trust, taking things slowly and bonding first.
Naked truth: Lots of girls find getting their kit off in front of someone else really scary - if you think she looks great, tell her.
Baby worries: Most girls under 18 don’t want to get pregnant – carrying a condom shows you respect her and are being sensible.
Foreplay: Sex is an emotional experience for girls – they want to feel loved and respected. Spend time kissing and cuddling and don’t rush into anything until you’re both ready.
No pressure: Always take her feelings into account, never pressuring her into sex, even if you’ve done it before.
All the fun without the risks
You don’t have to go all the way to have a good time. Having sex isn’t just about penetration, there are loads of ways to enjoy sex - and they can be less risky than full-sex too.
Building up to sexIf you and your girlfriend are close enough, but still getting to know each other, kissing, touching and gradually building up to oral sex is just as much fun as going all the way. There’s no risk of pregnancy and less chance of you getting an STI.
There’s no rushEnjoying foreplay without penetration helps you relax and get to know what she does and doesn’t like. It also gives you time to decide if she’s the right person to go all the way with.
A guy's point of view
Chlamydia and the Genital Warts virus are two of the most common STIs in teenagers .
You should never give oral sex if you have sores, cuts or ulcers on your mouth or genitals – remember, you can’t get pregnant by having oral sex but you can catch STIs.
Sex and the Law
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Sex and the Law
What is the law on sex?The law says it's legal for you to consent to have sex from the age of 16. In Northern Ireland, you have to be 17. Gay sex is legal if you're both 16 or over in England, Wales and Scotland. In Northern Ireland it's 17. And 18 in Jersey. The law also says you must have sex in private.As long as girls are over 16 and both agree to it, lesbian sex is legal.Even if you are under 16 you can get free and confidential advice about sex, contraception and abortion at anytime. Visit your local doctor or young person's clinic to find out more.
Why is it illegal to have sex under 16?The laws on sex are there to protect young people from abuse or from having sex before they are ready. Different countries do have different laws, but in this country it is considered that people are not ready to have sex until they are 16. You might think it's unfair, but laws are there to protect you and not to try and spoil your fun. Think carefully before you have sex for the first time and whether it is really right for you as many people do regret having sex too young. If you do decide you are ready for sex then always use a condom to protect against unplanned pregnancies and STIs. And remember you can get free and confidential advice about sex, contraception and abortion even if you are under 16.
How old do you have to be to get married?You have to be 16 or older to get married in the UK. If you're under 18 (or under 20 in Jersey), you'll need your parents permission in writing. The exception is Scotland where you can marry once you're 16 without your parents' permission. If you want to know more about marriage laws, check out www.adviceguide.org.uk
Will doctors show my records/information to my parents?No. Doctors and nurses have a strict rule which says they have to keep all patient records and information completely private, even if you are under 16. Even if they think you are in serious danger they must talk to you first.
If you're still worried about the doctor telling someone, or even about being seen at the clinic or surgery, there are lots of other options. The 'Find help in your area' section shows you all the places where you can get free, confidential help and advice on anything to do with sex and relationships, contraception and abortion.
What's the law on abortion?For an abortion to be legal, you must be less than 24 weeks pregnant and two doctors must give their consent.
If you're under 16 and two doctors agree to your request for abortion, you can consent without your parents' involvement providing the doctor feels you understand the advice and the implications of the operation. However they will strongly encourage you to talk to your parents or an adult you trust.
Sex and the Law
What is the law on sex?The law says it's legal for you to consent to have sex from the age of 16. In Northern Ireland, you have to be 17. Gay sex is legal if you're both 16 or over in England, Wales and Scotland. In Northern Ireland it's 17. And 18 in Jersey. The law also says you must have sex in private.As long as girls are over 16 and both agree to it, lesbian sex is legal.Even if you are under 16 you can get free and confidential advice about sex, contraception and abortion at anytime. Visit your local doctor or young person's clinic to find out more.
Why is it illegal to have sex under 16?The laws on sex are there to protect young people from abuse or from having sex before they are ready. Different countries do have different laws, but in this country it is considered that people are not ready to have sex until they are 16. You might think it's unfair, but laws are there to protect you and not to try and spoil your fun. Think carefully before you have sex for the first time and whether it is really right for you as many people do regret having sex too young. If you do decide you are ready for sex then always use a condom to protect against unplanned pregnancies and STIs. And remember you can get free and confidential advice about sex, contraception and abortion even if you are under 16.
How old do you have to be to get married?You have to be 16 or older to get married in the UK. If you're under 18 (or under 20 in Jersey), you'll need your parents permission in writing. The exception is Scotland where you can marry once you're 16 without your parents' permission. If you want to know more about marriage laws, check out www.adviceguide.org.uk
Will doctors show my records/information to my parents?No. Doctors and nurses have a strict rule which says they have to keep all patient records and information completely private, even if you are under 16. Even if they think you are in serious danger they must talk to you first.
If you're still worried about the doctor telling someone, or even about being seen at the clinic or surgery, there are lots of other options. The 'Find help in your area' section shows you all the places where you can get free, confidential help and advice on anything to do with sex and relationships, contraception and abortion.
What's the law on abortion?For an abortion to be legal, you must be less than 24 weeks pregnant and two doctors must give their consent.
If you're under 16 and two doctors agree to your request for abortion, you can consent without your parents' involvement providing the doctor feels you understand the advice and the implications of the operation. However they will strongly encourage you to talk to your parents or an adult you trust.
THE GRACE OF GOD
"THE GRACE OF GOD"
"...by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God. " -Ephesians 2:8
CONSIDER A FRESH the often asked question on the above text: "What is referred to by the last phrase, "it is the gift of God?" Does the apostle teach that grace is the gift of God, or does he say it is salvation, or perhaps that faith is the gift of God?
Look first at the word 'grace.' Aside from the Apostle James' reference to a flower's vanished glory, both 'grace' and 'favor' in the New Testament King James Version are always a translation of the same Greek word, charis (khar'ece, Strong #5485). Its first definition in Strong's Greek Lexicon is "graciousness,...of manner or act." And it is of interest to note that Webster's Ninth Collegiate Dictionary puts as its first definition of grace, "unmerited divine assistance given man for his regeneration or sanctification." So grace is favor, "unmerited favor."
Salvation by Grace
Grace is, therefore, God's unmerited favor - His goodness toward those who have no claim on, nor reason to expect, divine favor. The principal manifestation of God's grace has heen in the form of a gift. We think the apostle meant that salvation is "the gift of God," or, as emphatically put in the Greek, "of God is it the gift." Salvation is not our achievement, but it is a gift from God. That truth is made stronger by contrast. It is 'not of ourselves' and "not of works." Salvation is indeed the most extraordinary expression of God's grace.
Salvation is of divine origin. But it is not anything that God was bound to arrange by the necessity of His nature. It is the result of His gracious will. Had it not been for His good pleasure, salvation would never have come. "By grace are ye saved." The Greek grammar denotes not the act of being saved, but the fact of having been saved. God's grace rather than human merit is the source of the whole arrangement. We are saved gratuitously. Salvation is a gift; it is not earned.
Faith
But what about faith? We inquire into this because, other than the clearly stated gift of miraculously-conferred faith (1 Cor. 12:9), some suggest that it is faith which "is the gift of God." Certainly faith is a received quality. It is among blessings which answer to Paul's rhetorical question, "what has thou that thou didst not receive?" (1 Cor. 4:7) But the elements of character which please God, among which is faith, as well as the temporal possessions and necessities held by Jesus' disciples, are generally attained through conscious effort. They are 'received' through our cooperation amidst God's overruling providences.
Faith, wherever present, exists in the mind, and it is generated by the holy spirit's influence of light and peace. Faith, in common with every other Christian virtue, exists in the heart that has responded to spiritual influences. Paul wrote that "all [men] have not faith." (2 Thes. 3:2) That does not suggest, however, that those who have faith received it as "the gift of God" as though an answer to our question. It is one's own mind and being that believes. It is not possible for God to believe for man, and convey that belief as a gift. The apostle wrote, rather, that "Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God. "-Rom. 10:17
Paul understood that faith is built and constructed; it grows and enlarges. He encouraged believers to increase in faith: "We are bound to thank God always for you, brethren, as it is meet, because that your faith groweth exceedingly, and the charity of every one of you all toward each other aboundeth." (2 Thes. 1:3) 'Soundness of faith' comes through hearing, thinking, learning and trusting, and sometimes by victory following rebuke.-Titus 1:13
Salvation through Faith
Salvation is not of ourselves (as seen foregoing). We are saved by grace. The salvation comes through faith in God's revealed purpose in His Son who died for all. Nothing aside from faith would enable our receiving of the gift of salvation. We of the human family were justly condemned to death for sin and disobedience. Those who break God's righteous law have no standing before Him in their own righteousness. Inasmuch as "there is none righteous, no, not one," all need God's grace and favor.
None in the human family has a vantage point or place of approach from which to require or demand God's blessing. God Himself needed to make the first move in the rescue of man. And He did. After the first human pair entered the broad road leading into death, the LORD God made a promise intimating the eventual recovery of mankind from Satan's influence. And God is specially pleased with those who believe, even though few respond to His promises. Those who do respond to God's revealed will are greatly blessed. One of those was Noah. The word 'grace' is first used in Scripture in regard to him. "But Noah found grace in the eyes of the LORD." (Gen. 6:8) The faith of Noah in God's promises saved him and his family from death in the flood.
But now that Jesus has laid down his human life in sacrifice as an atonement for sin, those who follow on in faith in the steps of their heaven-sent Redeemer receive eternal-life salvation. Such faith makes all things new: those far off are brought nigh, they pass from death to life, from disobedience to sonship, from evil conduct to good works, from fleshly desires to spiritual fellowship, from children of wrath to sitting in the heavenlies. Those improved relationships are described by the Apostle Paul:
'And you were dead in your trespasses and sins, in which you formerly walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince ofthe power of the air, ofthe spirit that is now working in the sons of disobedience. Among them we too all formerly lived in the lusts of our flesh, indulging the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, even as the rest. But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in our transgressions, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), and raised us up with Him, and seated us with Him in the heavenly places, in Christ Jesus, in order that in the ages to come He might show the surpassing riches in His grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, that no one should boast For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. Therefore remember, that formerly you, the Gentiles in the flesh,...were at that time separate from Christ, excluded from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers in the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. But now in Christ Jesus you who formerly were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. "-Eph. 2:1-13 NASB
The Way of Salvation
Sin, death, and accompanying sorrows have through the ages, as today, prompted many to inquire into God's saving grace. Our recognition of God's blessing leads to confession of sins and shortcomings, and true heart belief. "Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and thou shalt be saved. " (Acts 16:31) That answer of Paul to the fearful prison keeper is still true. None need fear to put trust in Jesus. He purchased all mankind with His own precious blood. He has received all power in heaven and in earth. Salvation is free to all who trust in Him and continue following on in faith. All devoted believers have authority to speak on behalf of Christ. We say in Christ's stead to the sincere and honest hearted, "be ye reconciled to God." (2 Cor. 5:20) Our commission is to direct the sin-weary and heavy-laden to the Savior of all men!
Jesus clearly taught that salvation comes through faith. "Truly, truly, I say to you, he who hears My word, and believes Him who sent Me, has eternal life." (John 5:24 NASB) Faith is taking God at His word, as Paul wrote: "Faith comes from hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ. "-Rom. 10:17 NASB
This is truth beyond doubting! We are saved by grace, through faith, through believing the Word of truth. The gospel promises salvation, full and free. God's loving mercy is the "good news" message to the sin-sick and weary-salvation offered freely to all, without money and without price.-Isa. 55:1-3
A living and active love for God expands with one's enlarging appreciation of His unmerited favor in the great salvation. "We love Him, because He first loved us." (1 John 4:19) And when we come to love God and our Lord Jesus, we come to love those who are of the same mind. We grow in loving sympathy for our brethren in their fight of faith. And we come to love all mankind, so loved by God as to send His only begotten Son to suffer cruel death, the price of human redemption.
Gifts from God
Jesus was sent to "save his people from their sins. " (Mat. 1:21) He came to save from death, which is caused by sin. The saved thus have eternal life. "And this is the record that God hath given to us eternal life and this life is in his Son. He that hath [belief in] the Son hath life; and he that hath not [belief in] the Son of God hath not life." (1 John 5:11,12) By God's grace, salvation life is free as a gift through faith.
Again and again Gods gift was affirmed. By Jesus to Nicodemus: "For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son that whosoever believeth in him should not perish but have everlasting life." - John 3 16
Again by Jesus to the woman: "Whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life." - John 4:14
By Paul to the Corinthians: "Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable [indescribable NASB] gift." - 2 Cor 9:15
Again by Paul to the Romans: "For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord." - Rom.6.23
"The Grace of God"
What a nice expression - "the grace of God." It prompts pleasant and peaceful thoughts about our Father, the great Creator But Paul's use of "the grace of God" phrase in Titus 2:11 appears to be with a specific purpose There the expression refers to the Savior of mankind. That four word phrase "the grace of God is a synonym for Jesus: "For the grace of God has appeared for the salvation of all men." (RSV) How beautiful! The sequence of phrases puts in good perspective the reality of His manifestation. He is the gift of God's grace by which all men may be saved. How wonderful to know it! "The grace of God has appeared!"
Paul wrote a similarly-identifying phrase. Its words are specific too - "the goodness and loving kindness of God." The context shows that those words refer to Jesus. "But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared ["God our Savior" - a reference to the Father, of which more to be said later], he [God] saved us, not because of deeds done by us in righteousness, but in virtue of his own mercy by the washing of regeneration and renewal in the holy spirit which he poured out upon us richly through Jesus Christ our Savio." (Titus 3:4-6 RSV) "The goodness and loving kindness of God" another synonym for Jesus, a companion phrase to that in Titus 2:11 - "the grace of God."
The Apostle in Hebrews 2:9 attributes salvation from death to God's grace: "...we see Jesus who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death... that he by the grace of God should taste death for every man." The thought is that Jesus experienced death so that every man who dies need not stay dead for ever. Indeed what grace...from "the God of all grace." -1 Pet. 5:10
Paul also shows that "the grace of that one man Jesus Christ" in conjunction with or united with "the grace of God" provided the free gift. This in Rom. 5:15,16 (RSV): "But the free gift is not like the trespass. For if many died through one man's trespass, much more have the grace of God and the free gift in the grace of that one man Jesus Christ abounded for many. And the free gift is not like the effect of that one man's sin. For the judgment following one trespass brought condemnation, but the free gift following many trespasses brings justification." The twin thoughts which attach to the words "the free gift" relate as cause and effect. The first thought is of Jesus - given in death as man's ransom. The second thought is the benefit of that ransom conferred upon all who really believe on Jesus - justification with its accompanying salvation.
"God Our Savior"
It is generally acknowledged by commentators that the words "God our Savior" noted above in "the kindness of God our Savior" refer to God himself, not to His Son Jesus. The same three-word phrase was spoken in prayer by Mary of the almighty God and heavenly Father (Luke 1:46-48), and written by Jude in verse 25 of his epistle, and three times by Paul (Titus 2:10, 3:4, 1 Tim: 1:1, 2:3). Aware that God is the architect and all-wise planner of salvation and its process, they all acknowledge the Father as "God our Savior." He is the one God Who has been from everlasting and Who shall be unto everlasting, and Who enlisted the faithful service of His beloved Son.
Grace for Grace
Jesus' disciples perceived that He who walked among them was indeed "full of grace and truth." (John 1:14) He always reflected God's favor. Fellowship with His Father was never interrupted. Being now perfected in the heavenlies, completed by the things which he suffered, having demonstrated faultless obedience despite temptation and accusations of blasphemy, Jesus sends forth of His fulness as His blessing upon believers.
The Apostle John affirmed himself as one of those so greatly blessed.
"For of His fulness we have all received, and grace upon grace. For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth were realized through Jesus Christ." - John 1:16,17, NASB
"Grace for grace"(KJV)...just what does that mean? Surely not that the grace of the old covenant is replaced by that of the new administration. Grace interchanging with grace is meant; grace replaced by fuller grace; greater depths to our spiritual relationship and fellowship; greater measures of spiritual understanding, sustenance and strength; continual impressions of received favor, new grace coming upon and superseding that formerly received. This becomes true in our individual experience. Grace is enjoyed in proportion to our growth in appreciation for God's favor channeled through our Redeemer. And that all comes because of and out of His fulness.
"For out of His fulness (abundance) we all received - all had a share and we were all supplied with - one grace after another and spiritual blessing upon spiritual blessing, and even favor upon favor and gift [heaped! upon gift. For while the Law was given through Moses, grace - unearned, undeserved favor and spiritual bless- ing - and truth came through Jesus Christ. " - John 1:16,17, Amplified Version
God's Riches It is God's richness in grace which provided the plan for deliverance from disobedience, sin and death. Paul gave that truth prominent place in Ephesians for our close consideration.
'He predestined us to adoption as sons through Jesus Christ to Himself according to the kind intention of His will, to the praise of the glory of His grace, which He freely bestowed on us in the Beloved. In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His [God's] grace. " - Eph. 1:5-7 NASB Without God's grace, death would mean extinction for all members of the condemned intelligent creation. God has freely wrought His grace to our forgiveness and to our inheritance of eternal life. It was all in view from early time. God predestined sonship for all repentant trespassers who will avail themselves of His gracious provision of salvation.
Paul emphasized again to the Ephesians God's promised riches of grace to the redeemed. "In order that in the ages to come He might show the surpassing riches ofHis grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus." - Eph. 2:7 NASB
Paul also used the delightful phrase, "the grace of God" early in Colossians. And again it seems to be another direct reference to Jesus. "You previously heard in the word of truth, the gospel, which has come to you, just as in all the world also it is constantly bearing fruit and increasing, even as it has been doing in you also since the day you heard of it and understood the grace of God in truth." - Col. 1:5,6 NASB There was a time with each of us, as with the Colossians, when we did not know "the grace of God in truth." They, perhaps as we, may have only heard of Jesus, knowing little about Him, His origin, His purpose, and the hope of the life that centers in Him. But a time came when we did know about God's great grace. Such was the happy experience of those Colossians. Paul took their minds back to the time - when they heard, knew, and believed as truth the words about "the grace of God." "In the word of truth, the gospel" ... "since the day ye heard, and knew the grace of God in truth." He mixed, merged and repeated words that pertain to salvation...truth, gospel, the grace of God, hearing. Again Paul intentionally put in focus the important aspects of salvation which are supplied through God's riches by Christ Jesus our Lord, the living example of divine grace Quotations from King James Version except as indicated RSV - Revised Standard Version NASB-New American Standard Bible
"...by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God. " -Ephesians 2:8
CONSIDER A FRESH the often asked question on the above text: "What is referred to by the last phrase, "it is the gift of God?" Does the apostle teach that grace is the gift of God, or does he say it is salvation, or perhaps that faith is the gift of God?
Look first at the word 'grace.' Aside from the Apostle James' reference to a flower's vanished glory, both 'grace' and 'favor' in the New Testament King James Version are always a translation of the same Greek word, charis (khar'ece, Strong #5485). Its first definition in Strong's Greek Lexicon is "graciousness,...of manner or act." And it is of interest to note that Webster's Ninth Collegiate Dictionary puts as its first definition of grace, "unmerited divine assistance given man for his regeneration or sanctification." So grace is favor, "unmerited favor."
Salvation by Grace
Grace is, therefore, God's unmerited favor - His goodness toward those who have no claim on, nor reason to expect, divine favor. The principal manifestation of God's grace has heen in the form of a gift. We think the apostle meant that salvation is "the gift of God," or, as emphatically put in the Greek, "of God is it the gift." Salvation is not our achievement, but it is a gift from God. That truth is made stronger by contrast. It is 'not of ourselves' and "not of works." Salvation is indeed the most extraordinary expression of God's grace.
Salvation is of divine origin. But it is not anything that God was bound to arrange by the necessity of His nature. It is the result of His gracious will. Had it not been for His good pleasure, salvation would never have come. "By grace are ye saved." The Greek grammar denotes not the act of being saved, but the fact of having been saved. God's grace rather than human merit is the source of the whole arrangement. We are saved gratuitously. Salvation is a gift; it is not earned.
Faith
But what about faith? We inquire into this because, other than the clearly stated gift of miraculously-conferred faith (1 Cor. 12:9), some suggest that it is faith which "is the gift of God." Certainly faith is a received quality. It is among blessings which answer to Paul's rhetorical question, "what has thou that thou didst not receive?" (1 Cor. 4:7) But the elements of character which please God, among which is faith, as well as the temporal possessions and necessities held by Jesus' disciples, are generally attained through conscious effort. They are 'received' through our cooperation amidst God's overruling providences.
Faith, wherever present, exists in the mind, and it is generated by the holy spirit's influence of light and peace. Faith, in common with every other Christian virtue, exists in the heart that has responded to spiritual influences. Paul wrote that "all [men] have not faith." (2 Thes. 3:2) That does not suggest, however, that those who have faith received it as "the gift of God" as though an answer to our question. It is one's own mind and being that believes. It is not possible for God to believe for man, and convey that belief as a gift. The apostle wrote, rather, that "Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God. "-Rom. 10:17
Paul understood that faith is built and constructed; it grows and enlarges. He encouraged believers to increase in faith: "We are bound to thank God always for you, brethren, as it is meet, because that your faith groweth exceedingly, and the charity of every one of you all toward each other aboundeth." (2 Thes. 1:3) 'Soundness of faith' comes through hearing, thinking, learning and trusting, and sometimes by victory following rebuke.-Titus 1:13
Salvation through Faith
Salvation is not of ourselves (as seen foregoing). We are saved by grace. The salvation comes through faith in God's revealed purpose in His Son who died for all. Nothing aside from faith would enable our receiving of the gift of salvation. We of the human family were justly condemned to death for sin and disobedience. Those who break God's righteous law have no standing before Him in their own righteousness. Inasmuch as "there is none righteous, no, not one," all need God's grace and favor.
None in the human family has a vantage point or place of approach from which to require or demand God's blessing. God Himself needed to make the first move in the rescue of man. And He did. After the first human pair entered the broad road leading into death, the LORD God made a promise intimating the eventual recovery of mankind from Satan's influence. And God is specially pleased with those who believe, even though few respond to His promises. Those who do respond to God's revealed will are greatly blessed. One of those was Noah. The word 'grace' is first used in Scripture in regard to him. "But Noah found grace in the eyes of the LORD." (Gen. 6:8) The faith of Noah in God's promises saved him and his family from death in the flood.
But now that Jesus has laid down his human life in sacrifice as an atonement for sin, those who follow on in faith in the steps of their heaven-sent Redeemer receive eternal-life salvation. Such faith makes all things new: those far off are brought nigh, they pass from death to life, from disobedience to sonship, from evil conduct to good works, from fleshly desires to spiritual fellowship, from children of wrath to sitting in the heavenlies. Those improved relationships are described by the Apostle Paul:
'And you were dead in your trespasses and sins, in which you formerly walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince ofthe power of the air, ofthe spirit that is now working in the sons of disobedience. Among them we too all formerly lived in the lusts of our flesh, indulging the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, even as the rest. But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in our transgressions, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), and raised us up with Him, and seated us with Him in the heavenly places, in Christ Jesus, in order that in the ages to come He might show the surpassing riches in His grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, that no one should boast For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. Therefore remember, that formerly you, the Gentiles in the flesh,...were at that time separate from Christ, excluded from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers in the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. But now in Christ Jesus you who formerly were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. "-Eph. 2:1-13 NASB
The Way of Salvation
Sin, death, and accompanying sorrows have through the ages, as today, prompted many to inquire into God's saving grace. Our recognition of God's blessing leads to confession of sins and shortcomings, and true heart belief. "Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and thou shalt be saved. " (Acts 16:31) That answer of Paul to the fearful prison keeper is still true. None need fear to put trust in Jesus. He purchased all mankind with His own precious blood. He has received all power in heaven and in earth. Salvation is free to all who trust in Him and continue following on in faith. All devoted believers have authority to speak on behalf of Christ. We say in Christ's stead to the sincere and honest hearted, "be ye reconciled to God." (2 Cor. 5:20) Our commission is to direct the sin-weary and heavy-laden to the Savior of all men!
Jesus clearly taught that salvation comes through faith. "Truly, truly, I say to you, he who hears My word, and believes Him who sent Me, has eternal life." (John 5:24 NASB) Faith is taking God at His word, as Paul wrote: "Faith comes from hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ. "-Rom. 10:17 NASB
This is truth beyond doubting! We are saved by grace, through faith, through believing the Word of truth. The gospel promises salvation, full and free. God's loving mercy is the "good news" message to the sin-sick and weary-salvation offered freely to all, without money and without price.-Isa. 55:1-3
A living and active love for God expands with one's enlarging appreciation of His unmerited favor in the great salvation. "We love Him, because He first loved us." (1 John 4:19) And when we come to love God and our Lord Jesus, we come to love those who are of the same mind. We grow in loving sympathy for our brethren in their fight of faith. And we come to love all mankind, so loved by God as to send His only begotten Son to suffer cruel death, the price of human redemption.
Gifts from God
Jesus was sent to "save his people from their sins. " (Mat. 1:21) He came to save from death, which is caused by sin. The saved thus have eternal life. "And this is the record that God hath given to us eternal life and this life is in his Son. He that hath [belief in] the Son hath life; and he that hath not [belief in] the Son of God hath not life." (1 John 5:11,12) By God's grace, salvation life is free as a gift through faith.
Again and again Gods gift was affirmed. By Jesus to Nicodemus: "For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son that whosoever believeth in him should not perish but have everlasting life." - John 3 16
Again by Jesus to the woman: "Whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life." - John 4:14
By Paul to the Corinthians: "Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable [indescribable NASB] gift." - 2 Cor 9:15
Again by Paul to the Romans: "For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord." - Rom.6.23
"The Grace of God"
What a nice expression - "the grace of God." It prompts pleasant and peaceful thoughts about our Father, the great Creator But Paul's use of "the grace of God" phrase in Titus 2:11 appears to be with a specific purpose There the expression refers to the Savior of mankind. That four word phrase "the grace of God is a synonym for Jesus: "For the grace of God has appeared for the salvation of all men." (RSV) How beautiful! The sequence of phrases puts in good perspective the reality of His manifestation. He is the gift of God's grace by which all men may be saved. How wonderful to know it! "The grace of God has appeared!"
Paul wrote a similarly-identifying phrase. Its words are specific too - "the goodness and loving kindness of God." The context shows that those words refer to Jesus. "But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared ["God our Savior" - a reference to the Father, of which more to be said later], he [God] saved us, not because of deeds done by us in righteousness, but in virtue of his own mercy by the washing of regeneration and renewal in the holy spirit which he poured out upon us richly through Jesus Christ our Savio." (Titus 3:4-6 RSV) "The goodness and loving kindness of God" another synonym for Jesus, a companion phrase to that in Titus 2:11 - "the grace of God."
The Apostle in Hebrews 2:9 attributes salvation from death to God's grace: "...we see Jesus who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death... that he by the grace of God should taste death for every man." The thought is that Jesus experienced death so that every man who dies need not stay dead for ever. Indeed what grace...from "the God of all grace." -1 Pet. 5:10
Paul also shows that "the grace of that one man Jesus Christ" in conjunction with or united with "the grace of God" provided the free gift. This in Rom. 5:15,16 (RSV): "But the free gift is not like the trespass. For if many died through one man's trespass, much more have the grace of God and the free gift in the grace of that one man Jesus Christ abounded for many. And the free gift is not like the effect of that one man's sin. For the judgment following one trespass brought condemnation, but the free gift following many trespasses brings justification." The twin thoughts which attach to the words "the free gift" relate as cause and effect. The first thought is of Jesus - given in death as man's ransom. The second thought is the benefit of that ransom conferred upon all who really believe on Jesus - justification with its accompanying salvation.
"God Our Savior"
It is generally acknowledged by commentators that the words "God our Savior" noted above in "the kindness of God our Savior" refer to God himself, not to His Son Jesus. The same three-word phrase was spoken in prayer by Mary of the almighty God and heavenly Father (Luke 1:46-48), and written by Jude in verse 25 of his epistle, and three times by Paul (Titus 2:10, 3:4, 1 Tim: 1:1, 2:3). Aware that God is the architect and all-wise planner of salvation and its process, they all acknowledge the Father as "God our Savior." He is the one God Who has been from everlasting and Who shall be unto everlasting, and Who enlisted the faithful service of His beloved Son.
Grace for Grace
Jesus' disciples perceived that He who walked among them was indeed "full of grace and truth." (John 1:14) He always reflected God's favor. Fellowship with His Father was never interrupted. Being now perfected in the heavenlies, completed by the things which he suffered, having demonstrated faultless obedience despite temptation and accusations of blasphemy, Jesus sends forth of His fulness as His blessing upon believers.
The Apostle John affirmed himself as one of those so greatly blessed.
"For of His fulness we have all received, and grace upon grace. For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth were realized through Jesus Christ." - John 1:16,17, NASB
"Grace for grace"(KJV)...just what does that mean? Surely not that the grace of the old covenant is replaced by that of the new administration. Grace interchanging with grace is meant; grace replaced by fuller grace; greater depths to our spiritual relationship and fellowship; greater measures of spiritual understanding, sustenance and strength; continual impressions of received favor, new grace coming upon and superseding that formerly received. This becomes true in our individual experience. Grace is enjoyed in proportion to our growth in appreciation for God's favor channeled through our Redeemer. And that all comes because of and out of His fulness.
"For out of His fulness (abundance) we all received - all had a share and we were all supplied with - one grace after another and spiritual blessing upon spiritual blessing, and even favor upon favor and gift [heaped! upon gift. For while the Law was given through Moses, grace - unearned, undeserved favor and spiritual bless- ing - and truth came through Jesus Christ. " - John 1:16,17, Amplified Version
God's Riches It is God's richness in grace which provided the plan for deliverance from disobedience, sin and death. Paul gave that truth prominent place in Ephesians for our close consideration.
'He predestined us to adoption as sons through Jesus Christ to Himself according to the kind intention of His will, to the praise of the glory of His grace, which He freely bestowed on us in the Beloved. In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His [God's] grace. " - Eph. 1:5-7 NASB Without God's grace, death would mean extinction for all members of the condemned intelligent creation. God has freely wrought His grace to our forgiveness and to our inheritance of eternal life. It was all in view from early time. God predestined sonship for all repentant trespassers who will avail themselves of His gracious provision of salvation.
Paul emphasized again to the Ephesians God's promised riches of grace to the redeemed. "In order that in the ages to come He might show the surpassing riches ofHis grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus." - Eph. 2:7 NASB
Paul also used the delightful phrase, "the grace of God" early in Colossians. And again it seems to be another direct reference to Jesus. "You previously heard in the word of truth, the gospel, which has come to you, just as in all the world also it is constantly bearing fruit and increasing, even as it has been doing in you also since the day you heard of it and understood the grace of God in truth." - Col. 1:5,6 NASB There was a time with each of us, as with the Colossians, when we did not know "the grace of God in truth." They, perhaps as we, may have only heard of Jesus, knowing little about Him, His origin, His purpose, and the hope of the life that centers in Him. But a time came when we did know about God's great grace. Such was the happy experience of those Colossians. Paul took their minds back to the time - when they heard, knew, and believed as truth the words about "the grace of God." "In the word of truth, the gospel" ... "since the day ye heard, and knew the grace of God in truth." He mixed, merged and repeated words that pertain to salvation...truth, gospel, the grace of God, hearing. Again Paul intentionally put in focus the important aspects of salvation which are supplied through God's riches by Christ Jesus our Lord, the living example of divine grace Quotations from King James Version except as indicated RSV - Revised Standard Version NASB-New American Standard Bible
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