Mix Up Your Workout Music

Keeping fit can be fun if you have the right motivation. And what better motivation than music! There are great songs to pump up your performance in every type of fitness activity. But don’t just stick with the same old pop culture workout music – add some inspirational Christian tunes to lift up your spirits and your heart rate. To make your perfect play list check out some of the following:

For Dance and Aerobics:

Sarah Reeves – Dance to It

David Crowder Band – Church Music – Dance (!)

King & Country – Joy

Brandon Lake – Meant for Good (featuring JUDAH.)

TobyMac – Found (featuring Terrian and Wande)

Anne Wilson – Hey Girl

Apollo LTD – Now

Beckah Shae – Mighty

Jamie Grace – Hold Me

For Pilates and Yoga:

We the Kingdom – Peace (featuring Bethel Music)

Lauren Daigle – Revival

Leigh Nash – Savior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us (Blessed Jesus)

Phil Wickham – Breath Away

Moriah Peters – Trust

Bethany Dillon – Beautiful

Mindy Smith – Come to Jesus

An Epic, No Less – Echo of Love

Kutless – Strong Tower

For Outdoor Activities (walking, running and biking):

Colton Dixon – Made to Fly

Switchfoot – I Dare You to Move

Kevin Quinn – More of You

Mat Kearney – Anywhere With You

Tori Kelly – Unbreakable Smile (or Masterpiece)

Switch – Covered

Fireflight – Keep Your Head Up

Jasmine Murray – Fearless

Koryn Hawthorne – Won’t He Do It

women walking on treadmills at a gym

Female Fitness: Finding a Workout Program for Girls

Celebrity Trainer Says Most Women Benefit From A Comprehensive Approach

It’s common to want to work out more, but hitting the gym hardly seems appealing. Who has time anyway? A recent study indicates that women actually want to exercise more. But, they’re discouraged for fear of being judged by others. The women surveyed worried about how they would look while exercising in front of others, their inexperience in personal fitness and the idea that they’re putting themselves first ahead of other priorities. “I believe this reflects their self-image, and it’s a shame that so many women live their lives short-changing themselves,” says celebrity trainer Holly Perkins

“Even today, most fitness programs women come across neglect important parts of the average woman’s mindset. Many gyms have spinning and other classes targeting women, but they lack the comprehensive aspect so many women are searching for. There are plenty of women who frequent gyms, but I think the culture of most of those places are framed by a male-dominated attitude, which is more comfortable blocking out ‘gym time’ in their schedule,” says Perkins.

“I believe a woman’s attitude craves a more holistic approach, one in which overall well-being is factored into a how-to lifestyle program.”

As a result, Perkins describes what works for women in a fitness program.

Female Fitness Programs Need to be FUN.

“No pain, no gain” is definitely a man’s attitude. As women, we’re not afraid of a healthy muscle burn, sweating and commitment – we’re designed to carry babies for nine months, and then deliver them, after all. However, we are much more relationship-oriented, and we thrive in positive feelings. The way to a woman’s heart in fitness is fun.

Female Fitness Programs Need to have PURPOSE.

For men who workout, the activity is almost a purpose in itself. There’s a sense of accomplishment in lifting heavy weights and “gettin’ it done.” Women want to shine; we want to look and feel like we never felt possible. We want to be in touch with who we are, and fitness synergized with overall well-being can do that.

Take STEPS to Find the Right Female Fitness Program.

It’s good for anyone starting a fitness program to have a blueprint for what they’d like to achieve, and steps for improvement along the way. For those who are inexperienced, an introduction and detailed plan enables time for the mind to ease into the process. Confusion or uncertainty is a waste of energy, and implementing new workout phases allows women to maximize our effort.

Female Fitness Programs Need to have SYNERGY.

If you think women don’t need weights, think again. Resistance band training increases your power and revs your body’s fat-burning engine. We also want to be lithe, supple and physically elegant. Yoga helps us reshape trouble zones, optimizes flexibility and beautifies posture. We can enjoy a calm that reinforces our motive for inner and outer beauty when done. Leave with an energizing relaxation.

Tell us what you like most about your fitness program or activities. Do you love working out with your best friends? Do you appreciate how working out makes you feel like you’re caring for God’s temple? #niNeFitness.

About Holly Perkins

Holly Perkins is a national fitness expert and developer of baladea, a customizable fitness and wellness system for women. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Exercise Physiology. Holly also has one of the most prestigious certifications in the industry: Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS). She believes that making fitness a fun lifestyle is the best way to achieve true change.
Climbing a mountain

Healthy Merry New Year

Workout attire is here to stay.

Even though it isn’t the most fashionable, athletic apparel is a continuing trend – and why wouldn’t it be? It’s so comfortable! Here’s this season’s hottest trends for you to wear when you sweat, study or shop. Find the right color so you have a healthy and merry New Year.

Gravitate Towards Gray for a Merry New Year

Gray Workout Clothes
Ace Quilted Sling Bag, $49.95, available at Altar’d State; Delight Sweatshirt in Asphalt, $69.95, available at Altar’d State; Layered Running Shorts, $24.99, available at H&M; Ultimate Jogger in Ash, $59.95, available at Altar’d State; Wild and Free Lounge Shorts in Washed-black, $49.90, available at Altar’d State; Replay Ribbed Velour Sweatpants in Denim, $59.95, available at Altar’d State.

Reach for the Sky for a Merry New Year

Blue Workout Clothes
Outdoor Jacket, $49.99, available at H&M; Soar Cargo Joggers in Blue, $59.95, available at Altar’d State; Flutter Top in Sage, $39.95, available at Altar’d State; Final Stretch Joggers in Royal, $59.95, available at Altar’d State; Offline Joggers in Indigo, $59.95, available at Altar’d State; Fast Track Leggings in Forest-Green, $69.95, available at Altar’d State.

Be Ready in Red this Merry New Year

Red Fitness Clothes
On Cloudflyer Running Shoe, $159.99, available at Nordstrom; Light Support Bandeau Sports Bra in Purple, $17.99, available at H&M; H&M Move Shorts, $24.99, available at H&M; Windbreaker, $34.99, available at H&M; Seamless Sports Leggings, $29.99, available at H&M; Lightweight Outdoor Vest, $49.99, available at H&M.

Merry New Year as You Weight in White

White Fitness Clothes
Layered Running Shorts, $24.99, available at H&M; Shorts, $24.99, available at H&M; Agile Hoodie in Grey, $59.95, available at Altar’d State; H&M Move Pullover, $49.99, available at H&M; Levitate Top in White, $49.95, available at Altar’d State; Outdoor Leggings, $64.99, available at H&M.

Be Down to Earth this Merry New Year

Brown Exercise Clothes
Blaze Quilted Hoodie in Mocha, $59.95, available at Altar’d State; Elevate Pullover in Mocha-Cream, $89.95, available at Altar’d State; Light Support Bandeau Sports Bra in Purple, $17.99, available at H&M; Let’s Roll Jacket in Camel, $69.95, available at Altar’d State; Let’s Roll Joggers in Camel, $59.95, available at Altar’d State; Meadow Velour Sweatpants in Chocolate, $59.59, available at Altar’d State; Progress Top in Terracotta, $39.95, available at Altar’d State.

For a Merry New Year Green Means Go

Green Exercise Clothes
Lightweight Outdoor Coat, $74.99, available at H&M; Lightweight Running Shorts, $29.99, available at H&M; Sports Anorak, $49.99, available at H&M; Seamless Sports Leggings, $29.99, available at H&M; Baseline Hoodie in Hunter Green, $59.95, available at Altar’d State; Track Pants, $49.99, available at H&M.

Have a Merry New Year in Black Attack

Black Fitness Clothes
Mobile Top in Black, $49.95, available at Altar’d State; Belt Bag, $34.99, available at H&M; Stellar Workout Top in Black, $49.95, available at Altar’d State; Track Pants, $74.99, available at H&M; Stream Flare Leggings in Black, $49.95, available at Altar’d State; Tiered Tennis Skort, $59.95, available at Altar’d State.

Be Peach Perfect for a Merry New Year

Peach Fitness Clothes
Slide Velour Pullover in Mocha, $49.95, available at Altar’d State; The North Face Escape VECTIV Trail Running Shoe, $101.35, available at Nordstrom; Plush Jacket in Terracotta, $79.95, available at Altar’d State; Spirited Leggings in Khaki, $69.95, available at Altar’d State; Strength Leggings in Mocha, $59.95, available at Altar’d State; Satisfaction Ribbed Hoodie in Taupe, $59.95, available at Altar’d State.

Let these workout trends inspire you to a healthy Merry New Year!

green check marks on a yellow background

New Year Goals: Resolutions for the Irresolute

It’s January 1st and we know what you’re thinking. It’s a new year, so it’s time for a new you and a new list of New Year’s resolutions. But this year, instead of making resolutions that will end up with the dust bunnies under your bed, try creating New Year’s goals.

Resolutions and goals seem similar, but the difference is in the approach. People make resolutions expecting to change immediately. But it’s unrealistic to expect change overnight, and that’s why goals are important. Goals allow you to move slowly instead of overwhelming yourself, getting frustrated and giving up. Goals help you make positive, healthy changes in your life. Here are some tips on how to start (and keep going!):

Make your goals about YOU.

Kirstin Brekken-Shea, a senior lecturer in the Health and Kinesiology Department at Texas A&M University, says it’s important to realize who you are when making goals. And this is especially true when it comes to your body.

“Each of us is special, unique and graced with certain characteristics and gifts that make us who we are,” says Brekken-Shea. “Accept yourself and learn to love yourself – flaws and all. Then, take a healthy look at how you can improve yourself.”

There are things you cannot change, so focus on the things you can. What works for your friends might not work for you, so personalize your goals.

Set short-term efforts to help reach your long-term goal.

Once you have established your goals, the key to achieving them is to focus on a long-term goal and then identify supporting short-term goals. If your goal is to drink more water, create short-term goals to help modify your behavior. Find a water bottle you love, keep it full and with you at all times. Or if you drink lots of soda, replace a soda a day with water. Little steps turn into big leaps. Make these short-term goals specific so you know exactly when they have been accomplished. “Most importantly, you must identify specific behavior changes that would support your goal,” Brekken-Shea says.

Goals aren’t always about achievement.

Create goals that help you discover who you are and who you want to be. A long-term goal sets a point on the horizon for who you want to be, but it’s easier to make that journey if you know who you are now. By knowing where you currently stand, you can set up short-term goals that will keep you on track towards your long-term goal. Short-term goals with the purpose of discovering who you are could include taking on a new hobby, performing random acts of kindness, reading for pleasure, reading your Bible or bringing a new person into your circle of friends. Set goals that requires extra effort and some kind of change. Make your goals realistic, but not too easy to attain. Your goals should take you out of your comfort zone (even if it’s just a little) – you never know what you may discover about yourself.

Track your progress and stay accountable.

To stay motivated, youth ministers John and Beverly Moore suggest enlisting a friend to be your accountability partner. Write e-mails offering encouragement or meet at your favorite hangout to talk about progress, celebrate victories or just vent. Keep a record of your progress in a journal.

“Start journaling goals, thoughts, feelings, moods, ups and downs, prayer requests, foods eaten or even exercise routine,” Beverly says. “Then re-read them a few months later to see how well you’ve done or where you need to make improvements in your life.”

And finally, don’t be afraid of change. If you don’t experience success examine your goals and modify as needed. Remember – you have the power to start over at any time.

niNe.’s New Year Goals

Here’s 9 New Year Goals that we’d love for you to try with us. The first page is niNe.’s New Year Goals, the second page provides a space for you to write down your New Year Goals. Download today and join us on this year’s journey!

College Misconceptions Debunked

There are many ideas about the various types of colleges to attend, which make it even harder to decide where you want to call home for four incredible years of your life. But, instead of eliminating a possible school that might provide you with incredible opportunity, look over some of these misconceptions about college life.

1. You’ll feel lonely and lost at a big college.

A big college can actually feel small if you connect with a group of people or a series of close friends who make you feel at home. If you’re spending your time with people you love, care about and who have similar interests, then you won’t notice the other 25,000 people walking around campus.  

2. You have to go to a school far away (even out of state) to gain independence from your parents.

In reality, you don’t have to go far at all to gain independence from Mom and Dad and separation from your family.  If you’re ready to stand on your own two feet, then you can start gaining independence while still under your parent’s roof. Independence isn’t about being able to do whatever you want; it’s about maturity and being able to maintain responsibility. You can go to a school in the same city as your parents and still only see them during summer vacation and holidays. Your independence is up to you, not your zip code. 

3. A Christian College is the only place to grow spiritually.

Christian colleges and universities offer great classes on theological subject matter, daily chapels keep you focused on God’s word and the community will inspire great conversation – all of which is great!  But, you can become spiritually challenged and grow in an environment that causes you to defend your faith or know what you believe and why you believe it as well.  

4. Schools in the city offer the most opportunity.

Living in a city can be expensive which can actually pull you away from potential opportunity.  Plus, city schools don’t always have a distinct “college atmosphere,” which is an opportunity in itself. Overall, academic institutions pride themselves on connecting and training students for their future, so opportunity will arise at any location.  It’s up to you to pursue it. Depending on your future endeavors, it’s true that you may have to move to the city to find a job after you graduate college. But, keep in mind that you’ll have to move at various times throughout life to go where God is leading you, so a city school doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll plant your roots and stay there.

5. Public school is more affordable than Private school.

Yes, private schools do have a hefty price tag, but there is a lot of opportunity to gain scholarships and financial support, which can help even out the cost of a private school.

6. It’s best to go to a school known for your major.

Sometimes a school that has a reputation for being good in a particular area may limit your ability to branch out and discover new things. These schools may not have as many electives to choose from which restricts your range in education. Additionally, most students don’t really decide and declare a major until their Junior year of college, so if you learn that the major you thought you wanted to pursue in high school isn’t the route you want to take, then you may find that your options aren’t as strong with a college that obtains a particular emphasis.  

7. Test out of as many Gen Ed classes as you can.

When it comes to limiting the expense of college, testing out of certain classes is a great way to go.  However, if you’re looking for a diverse and broad education from your college experience, then testing out of even your general academic classes may mean your selling yourself short. General education classes at the college level are a lot more diverse than your regular high school classes. There are a lot of interesting subjects available that may lead you to another interest, hobby, viewpoint, passion or even a major. You may even find a new favorite professor who really opens your mind to a whole new perspective.

8. You have to go Greek and Rush.

It’s easy to believe that they only way to connect in college is through the Greek system (pretty much every TV show or movie about college portrays that idea). However, you can find interesting and like-minded people outside the sorority scene. Join a club or intramural team of something that you find interesting, and most importantly find a college ministry or church that has a ministry geared specifically for college aged students. The people that you meet in these Christians settings will be your friends for life.  

9. It’s best to go to a four-year school.

There are certain benefits to a four-year bachelor degree, but depending on your interests and desires, that might not be the most suitable for your career. Two year trade schools are excellent options, working to gain experience is also very applicable as well as starting your secondary education at a community college and transferring to a four-year university.  Four-year programs are very expensive, so pray about what God plans for your life and let Him guide you down the right path.

Clock showing midnight

9 Fun New Year Resolution Ideas

Who said New Year’s resolutions had to be hard or difficult? The purpose of a New Year’s Resolution is to better yourself. Is there any way to improve your own identity other than enjoying life and seeking out the person that God desires for you to become? Instead of creating a resolution that you’ll dread and stop working toward in a month, start a resolution that helps you explore your unique self while enjoying life to the fullest. Here’s 9 of our favorite New Year Resolution ideas for a fun and enjoyable New Year:

1. Get Out of Town with these New Year Resolution Ideas

Head to a nearby town over the weekend with an older sibling, help your family plan a summer vacation, go on a road trip with your friends, or ask your parents to take you to a new country to explore a diverse culture.

2. New Year Resolution Ideas to Make Time for a Different Friend Every Week

It’s so easy to get caught up in the busyness of the school year that you tend to neglect your friendships. Make a pact that you’ll spend special time with one of your best girls every week. You don’t have to spend an extensive amount of time with them, just a short ice cream or study date. Taking this time to invest in your friendships will create a strong and reliable support throughout the year.

3. Try a New Beauty Trend Once a Week for some Fabulous New Year Resolution Ideas

Don’t get stuck in a rut with your morning routine. Instead, commit to trying something new once a week. Hit up the mall over the weekend to buy a new and mysterious product. Rush over to Target after practice for a wonderful new shade to adorn. Raid your mom’s make-up bag and test out a new look or explore new and fantastic ways to use what you already own. To get your started, check out ten ways to wear eyeliner!

4. New Year Resolution Ideas to Re-Mix Your Music

Check out music that you wouldn’t normally consider listening to. Check out an unknown artist or genre on Youtube, Spotify or wherever you listen. Or go old school and explore the music section at the library. Check out your sister’s playlist or borrow a few tunes from your best friend. Even consider exploring music from when your parents were your age to create a more diverse understanding of musical trends and genres.

5. New Years Resolution Ideas You’ll Certainly Love: Take a Nap

As the school year progresses, it seems impossible to find time to sleep in, so vow that this year you’ll treat yourself to a nap at least once a month. It doesn’t have to be a long nap – a 20 minute power nap will do the trick. You’re growing and deserve a little peace and quiet.

6. Hit Up Those Animated Films this New Year

Just face it, you love those animated films, but you don’t want to admit it. Use your younger siblings as an excuse to hit up the theater. I’m sure mom and dad will love the quiet time, so they may even foot the bill. Or curl up to some Disney+ time with your fam. Pop some popcorn, mix in some candy and you’re ready to go!

7. New Years Resolution Ideas to Write a Touching Thank You

Write your mom a fun, inspirational or sentimental card every month to thank her for being such an incredible mom. This takes no time at all, but it’ll make such an impact on her life and on your relationship. Your mom does a lot for you, show her that you appreciate it, you notice and you care!

8. Explore The Bible for some Deeper New Year Resolution Ideas

Read a book of the Bible that you’ve never read before. Out of 66 books in the Bible, there’s certainly a book that you’ve never read all the way through before. There are plenty of short books sprinkled throughout the Bible if you don’t feel comfortable committing to something too long.

9. Share Your Knowledge with thoughtful New Year Resolution Ideas

Teach a Sunday School Class for a season. You don’t have to teach younger kids, you could teach an adult class or even a class for your peers. Lead a group or age level that you would enjoy and learn from. In any case, there’s certainly an adult who would be willing to help you through the process.

Enjoy the New Year with some fun New Year resolution ideas. If you fail meeting your resolution in the first week, month or season, that’s okay. Pick it back up later. There’s always time to explore the world around you as you seek more of God and the woman He wants you to become. Have fun and enjoy all the goodness of life.

Fringe and Fur

Two of this winter’s most delightful trends are fringe and fur, so add a little frill to your winter wardrobe with these fancy items.

Night Out

Go all out by pairing a fringe skirt with a cute top or sweater and killer boots for a special night out!

Poppy Sweater in Cobalt Blue, $69.95, available at Altar’d State; Brasserie Hennes Holiday Bag, $24.99, available at H&M; Pixie Booties in Black, $69.95, available at Altar’d State; Braylin Fringe Skirt, $59.95, available at Altar’d State.

Cozy and Comfortable

Cuddle up in a fringe sweater and fur-lined boots or sandals to accompany your favorite pair of jeans.

Good American Good Legs Low, $139.00, available at Nordstrom; Augustine Sweater in Mocha, $69.95, available at Altar’d State; Manitobah Hero, $230.00, available at Nordstrom; Birkenstock Arizona Big Buckle Platform Teddy in Eggshell, $180.00, available at Nordstrom.

School Day

Wear a cozy cardigan with fringe or fur detail and a tank to match for a chic school-look or for hanging around with friends.

Hannah Fringe Tank in Cream, $59.95, available at Altar’d State; CJ Cardigan, $69.95, available at Altar’d State; Good American Good Vintage Jagged Step Hem, $145.00, available at Nordstrom; Valentina Tall Shaft Boot, $169.95, available at Nordstrom.

Fringe Top

Make fringe your own by dressing it up or down. Pair a fringe top with jeans. Dress your outfit up with heels plus a nice jacket and skirt.
Good American Good Legs Flare Twisted Slit, $150.00, available at Nordstrom; Brasserie Hennes Holiday Top, $29.99, available at H&M; Jessica Simpson Saima in Black, $149.00, available at Nordstrom; Crystal Studded Bangle, $19.95, available at Altar’d State.

Blazer

Spend the Christmas season with loved ones doing fun and interesting activities wearing a stylish, yet versatile blazer with fringed fur.

Fitted Blazer, $49.99, available at H&M; Fluffy Fringe-Knit Top, $49.95, available at H&M; Good American Good Straight Split Pockets, $145.00, available at Nordstrom; Sonato Booties, $79.95, available at Altar’d State.

Fringe Skort

Wear an oversized sweater with a fringe skort and loafers for a playful look that can pass for day or night.

Glittery Sweater in Dark Blue, $49.99, available at H&M; Aqua x Maeve Reilly Blake Chain Loafers in Bone Patent, $128.00, available at Bloomingdale’s; Miley Skort, $74.95, available at Altar’d State.

All On Board

Play up this trend by wearing a fringe/fun top and matching bottom with a complimentary hat and coat. Pull on a pair of heels for a perfect party outfit.

Brasserie Hennes Holiday Top, $24.99, available at H&M; Zella Faux Fur Puffer Jacket, $169.00, available at Nordstrom; Brasserie Hennes Holiday Skirt, $34.99, available at H&M; Lightening Heels, $59.95, available at Altar’d State; The North Face Oh Mega Faux Fur Pom Beanie in Black, $45.00, available at Nordstrom.

Low Key Fur

Don a fun pair of overalls with a top that has just a touch of fur around the collar, shoulders or wrists. Then top off the casual look with a fuzzy cap.

Treasure & Bond Brushed Baseball Cap, $35.00, available at Nordstrom; Tammy Bodysuit, $69.95, available at Altar’d State; Morgan Sneakers, $69.95, available at Altar’d State; Good American Good 90s Overall, $159.00, available at Nordstrom.

Just a Touch

For a tiny bit of flare, wear a fur-collar or fringe jewelry with a basic base outfit.

Brasserie Hennes Holiday Necklace, $34.99, available at H&M; Rhinestone Earrings, $17.99, available at H&M; Vans Old Skool Sneaker in Black White, $70.00, available at Nordstrom; Harper Top in Black, $49.95, available at Altar’d State; Good American Good 90s Icon in Black, $145.00, available at Nordstrom.

Fur Accessories

If you decide that there’s too much fringe or fur for your taste, you can always cut back and use some accessories to add texture to your look!

BP. Furry Bucket Hat, $19.00, available at Nordstrom; UGG Adirondack III Waterproof Bootie in Chestnut, $249.95, available at Nordstrom; UGG Shearling Earmuff in Charcoal, $44.97, available at Nordstrom Rack; Sherpa Top Backpack, $69.95, available at Altar’d State; UGG Scuffette II Slipper, $95.00, available at Nordstrom; Crocs Classic Cozzzy Faux Fur Sandal, $49.99, available at Nordstrom Winter Fur Scarf, $44.95, available at Altar’d State.

Fringe Accessories

Bohemian Statement Fringe Necklace, $24.95, available at Altar’d State; Jessica Simpson Asire Fringe Knee High Boot, $179.00, available at Nordstrom; Mildred Fringe Bag, $54.95, available at Altar’d State; Forest Plain Scarf, $24.95, available at Altar’d State; Crystal Bandana Scarf in Olive, $24.95, available at Altar’d State; Ezra Rhinestone Fringe Belt, $34.95, available at Altar’d State.

Jesus Christ Birthday: When is it celebrated?

In Luke 2: 1-11, we read the account of Jesus’ birth. It’s a popular verse; in fact Linus reads the scripture as the true meaning of Christmas in the television special “A Charlie Brown Christmas.” But, where do we read that Jesus was born on December 25? We know that his birthday was during the census, but we aren’t given a specific date for the census. We know that Mary and Joseph were pledged to be married, but we don’t actually know the date for their marriage to backtrack and know when Christ was born. We know that the shepherds were tending their sheep in a field, but we aren’t certain as to when they arrived in Bethlehem to praise their savior.

If no one knows the actual date that Jesus was born, why do we celebrate Christmas on December 25? There are two theories, both of which have faults, one of which is more popular among theologians.

The earliest record of Christ’s birth being observed on December 25 is from the middle of the fourth century (354) on a document that listed various martyr’s feasts for the year. For the church’s first three centuries, Christmas wasn’t even on the calendar. Some church leaders were opposed to the idea of celebrating Christ’s birthday because birthdays were for pagan gods and kings. They believed it would be wrong to honor the Messiah in the same way others were honored. Other church leaders started to speculate the date of his birth because they wanted to celebrate, but soon discovered that actual records of his birth were lost, so various dates on the calendar were mentioned as days of celebrating Christ’s birth.

Jesus Christ Birthday First Theory

In the second century, the Church of Rome chose December 25 as the date of Christ’s birth to deliberately turn people away from pagan feasts being observed at the same time. Natalis solis invicti, which means the “birth of the unconquered sun” and the birthday of Mithras, the Iranian “sun of righteousness,” were both pagan feasts celebrated on what was believed to be the winter solstice. Christ was the true son and should be worshiped over all other gods. The first direct suggestion that Jesus’ birth celebration was determined to outshine pagan traditions wasn’t made until the 12th century, however there were references mentioned in various sermon accounts in the fourth and fifth centuries.

Many question this theory because Christians during the first and second century were not borrowing heavily from pagan traditions like we do today because Christians believed in a strong calling as God’s holy people. After Constantine converted to Christianity in the mid-fourth century, Christians adapted pagan festivals according to his rule.

Jesus Christ Birthday Second Theory

It is believed that the dates of Jesus’ death and his conception are linked. The connection between death and conception is an ancient and medieval understanding that salvation is bound to not only death, but also conception. The conception of Jesus binds the promise of salvation through his birth. The idea that creation and redemption are tied together is also reflected in ancient Jewish tradition.

Though, much of the New Testament provides little detail on Christ’s birth, it does provide detailed information on Jesus’ ministry, miracles, death and resurrection. March 25 is the recognized date of Christ’s crucifixion. If the date of His crucifixion and the date of his conception are indeed linked, then according to the natural cycle of birth, nine months after March 25 would be when Mary would have given birth to our savior.

Are you more concerned with actual documentation tying Jesus’ birth to December 25, are you allowing today’s “pagan” traditions to pull you away from the miracle of Christ’s birth or do you connect his birth to his death and resurrection? Christmas, whenever celebrated, is a date that marks the foundation of Christianity and Jesus deserves your honor and praise.

Silver and Gold

Whether you’re heading off to a study date, a Christmas party of just another day at school, this season is all about silver and gold decorations. Don’t waste the beautiful glitz of Christmas by wearing it only for a special occasion; instead style some glam into the entire season. We’ve selected a few sparkling items and shown you ways to incorporate them into an outfit, each with a heightened amount of glam! Shine bright this Christmas.

Celebrate in Style

Don’t be shy to Glam it all out with a full on glitter and sparkle dress. Pair it with the cutest heels in your closet and you will shine all night!

Sequined Dress, $64.99, available at H&M; Chelsea28 Sequin Sleeveless Minidress, $119.00, available at Nordstrom; Pumps, $39.99, available at H&M; Jessica Simpson Meitini, $119.00, available at Nordstrom.

Sparkly Skirt

The ultimate glittery skirt that looks impossible to pull off? Yes! Wear it with a cute and chic little sweater. Don’t forget your flats or boots!

Haisley Suede Hat, $49.95, available at Altar’d State; Lyla Sweater in Evergreen, $59.95, available at Altar’d State; Isla Booties, $99.95, available at Altar’d State; Jamie Sequin Skirt, $79.95, available at Altar’d State.

Shiny Sneakers

Wear those new glittery sneaks or sandals in your closet with a classic winter sweater. Add some bling to your socks so your feet are ready to saunter through the snow and into school.

Good American Good Legs Flare Twisted Slit, $150.00, available at Nordstrom; Wendy Sweater, $69.95, available at Altar’d State; Beaded Hoop Earrings, $29.00, available at Nordstrom; Crocs Classic Cozzzy Faux Fur Sandal, $49.99, available at Nordstrom; Roxanne Sneakers in Gold, $89.95, available at Altar’d State.

Rose Gold

Gold doesn’t really highlight your complexion? Go for a soft dewy glow with a pink glitter skirt and accessories to match. You’ll look like the slight glimmer of warm candlelight.

Bella Fuzzy Cardigan, $69.95, available at Altar’d State; Valentina Tall Shaft Boot, $169.95, available at Nordstrom; Lexi Skirt in Nude, $69.95, available at Altar’d State.

Everyday Look

You can incorporate your shine in your everyday looks. Pair your favorite jeans with a gold jacket, and shiny new shoes. You’ll leave your sparkle all over the school hallways!

Santa Baby Sweatshirt, $59.95, available at Altar’d State; Good American Good Straight Split Pockets, $145.00, available at Nordstrom; Oversized Glittery Jacket, $89.95, available at Altar’d State; Pumps, $39.99, available at H&M.

Pants

Those awesome silver pants that you really want to by, but not sure how to wear them without looking like a Dancing With the Stars costume? The secret – wear a slim and sleek top and a complimentary piece of jewelry. Another tip – you must wear shoes that are a similar shade. Opt for a similar metallic.

Flared slit-hem leggings, $64.99, available at H&M; Harper Top in Black, $49.95, available at Altar’d State; Rhinestone Earrings, $9.99, available at H&M; Brasserie Hennes Holiday Shoes, $49.99, available at H&M.

Accessorize

Really love this trend, but aren’t a glam-girl? Rock out a casual and cool look by wearing a bag with stud details. Glitz and glam doesn’t have to look like a sparkly Christmas ornament.

Thread and Supply Woven Shirt Jacket in Grey White Plaid, $29.97, available at Nordstrom Rack; Good American Good Vintage Jagged Step Hem, $145.00, available at Nordstrom; Stud Crossbody Bag, $54.95, available at Altar’d State; Dr Marten 1461w Oxford in Black, $130.00, available at Nordstrom.

Jeweled Jewelry

Add just a touch of the trend with a strong and powerful statement necklace. Pair it with jeans, sleek shoes and a classic top.

AQUA x Maeve Reilly High Rise Cargo Jeans in Dark Wash, $98.00, available at Bloomingdale’s; Brasserie Hennes Holiday Necklace, $34.99, available at H&M; Open Edit Stitch Sleeve Cotton Blend Sweater, $59.00, available at Nordstrom; Jessica Simpson Salih Platform Sandal, $129.00, available at Nordstrom.

Glamorous Gold

For a super glam look, wear an all gold pant or skirt with a sequin top. Accessorize with gold jewelry and matching shoes.

Good American Wide Leg Trousers, $155.00, available at Nordstrom; Open Edit Sequin Mesh Sleeveless Top, $49.00, available at Nordstrom; Ettika Set of 3 Chain Link Bracelets, $50.00, available at Nordstrom; Open Edit Knit Midi Skirt, $55.00, available at Nordstrom; Open Edit Heather Loafer in Black, $69.00, available at Nordstrom; Jessica Simpson Larna Western Boot, $169.00, available at Nordstrom.

Christmas Carols

We’re now counting down the days until Christmas! As you study, do homework, Christmas shop and hang with family and friends, enjoy some incredible worship songs all geared toward this time of year. Here’s our top 9 Christmas singles all released for this beautiful time of year: 

  1. DOE O Come, O Come Emmanuel (feat. IAMSON) (Provident)
  1. Anne Wilson and Josh Turner The Manger (Capital CMG)
  1. Hannah Kerr Joy To The World (It’s Christmas) (Curb/Word)
  1. The Church Will Sing What a Glorious Night (Curb/Word)
  1. Jordan St. Cyr The Wait is Over (BEC)
  1. Love & The Outcome Christmas Lights (Curb/Word)
  1. Thrive Worship Oh Come All Ye Faithful (Integrity)
  1. Future of Forestry The Advent Song (Independent)
  1. Phil Wickham (feat. Anne Wilson) Behold (Fair Trade Services)

Check out Ellie Holcomb‘s Christmas Album Sing: Christmas Songs.