Girlfriends in God

[Judy Harder]

October 1, 2009
Changing Fear to Faith
Sharon Jaynes

Today's Truth
"I know whom I have believed and am convinced that he is able to guard what I have entrusted to him for that day" (1 Timothy 1:12 NIV).   

Friend To Friend
We all have times when our faith begins to waver and doubts creep in like slow growing moss.  Even Jesus' cousin, John the Baptist had a bout with doubt.  Remember John? He was born several months before Jesus for the sole purpose of preparing the way for Jesus' ministry.  "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near," he proclaimed.  When Jesus approached John preaching and baptizing by the river, John announced, "Look, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!" (John 1:29).  John heard the voice of God saying, "This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased" (Matthew 3:17).

And yet, when John was arrested and sat alone in the darkened prison cell, doubts began to creep in. He sent two of his friends to ask Jesus, "Are you the one who was to come, or should we expect someone else?" (Luke 7:18).

Jesus did not rebuke John for his bout with doubt, but rather reassured him to have faith and cling to the truth.

Faith is trusting God's heart when we can't trace His hand. 

For close to a year, I worked on a large needlepoint piece.  I must say, the canvas turned out quite lovely.  But if you turn it over and look at the backside, it looks like a mess of tangles, knots and frayed ends.  That's the way it is with our lives at times.  We tend to look at the underside of tangles, knots and frayed ends, while God sees the finished product.  Consider the words to this anonymous poem quoted by Corrie Ten Boom in her book, Tramp for the Lord.

My life is but a weaving, between my God and me,
I do not choose the colors, He worketh steadily,
Oftimes He weaveth sorrow, and I in foolish pride,
Forget He see the upper, and I the underside.
Until the loom is silent, and shuttles cease to fly,
Will God unfold the canvas and explain the reason why.
The dark threads are as needful in the skillful Weaver's hand,
As the threads of gold and silver in the pattern He has planned.

If ever there was a woman who had a messy life, it was Rahab.  Rahab was a prostitute who lived in one of the apartments built into the walls of Jericho.  When Joshua sent two spies into the city to scope out their enemies, the men went to Rahab's home.  Jericho was a bustling city and it was not uncommon for travelers to seek the house of a prostitute for lodging.

Rahab did not have the luxury of being taught the Scriptures as we do today.  And yet, she had faith in God because of what she had heard.  When the king's men came looking for the Israelite spies, she hid them under stalks of flax on the roof.  Rahab lived among people who were filled with fear because of the reputation of the Israelites and their God. But rather than being filled with fear, she made a proclamation of faith:

"I know that the LORD has given this land to you and that a great fear of you has fallen on us, so that all who live in this country are melting in fear because of you.  We have heard how the LORD dried up the water of the Red Sea for you when you came out of Egypt and what you did to Sihom and Og, the two kings of the Amorites east of the Jordan, whom you completely destroyed.  When we heard of it, our hearts melted and everyone's courage failed because of you, for the LORD your God is God in heaven above and on the earth below.  Now then, please swear to me by the LORD that you will show kindness to my family, because I have shown kindness to you" (Joshua 2: 9-12).

Rahab turned her fear into faith.  Her proclamation of faith saved her and her family, and they were assimilated into God's chosen people.  Amazingly, Rahab became the mother of Boaz, the grandmother of Jesse, and the great-great-grandmother of King David and her tiny branch is even part of Jesus' family tree.

I love this inscription posted at Hind's Head Inn in Bray, England: "Fear knocked at the door.  Faith answered.  No one was there."

Fear comes knocking with a thought.  Faith answers with a word ... God's Word.  As Martin Luther wrote in his masterful "A Mighty Fortress is our God ..."One little word shall fail him."  The very name of Jesus will defeat the devil and drive away fear.

Let's Pray
LORD, You are my light and my salvation...whom shall I fear?  You are the stronghold of my life...of whom shall I be afraid? I am surrounded by a host of angels who are here to deliver me from harm. You are my refuge and strength, my ever-present help in trouble.  Therefore I will not fear, but put my trust in You.

In Jesus' Name,
Amen

Now It's Your Turn
Today's prayer came from several of David's Psalms.  Look up the following Scripture and see what you can learn about David's source of courage and confidence.

Psalm 27:1

Psalm 34:7

Psalm 46:1

Psalm 91:1-8

More From The Girlfriends
Are you in need of a faith-lift?  Then Experience the Ultimate Makeover might be just the book to strengthen your faith.  Here you'll learn more about how to trust in God during difficult times.  You'll also learn more about who you are and what you have as a child of God and co-heir with Christ. Open the pages and come to God's Spa for a beauty treatment with lasting results.

Seeking God?
Click here to find out more about
how to have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.


Girlfriends in God
P.O. Box 725
Matthews, NC 28106
info@girlfriendsingod.com
www.girlfriendsingod.com  

[Judy Harder]

October 2, 2009
Guilt - the Gift that Keeps on Giving
Mary Southerland

Today's Truth
"God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble." James 4:6 (NIV)

Friend to friend
When Frederick II, an eighteenth-century King of Prussia, went on an inspection tour of a Berlin prison, he was greeted with the cries of prisoners hoping and praying for leniency. They fell on their knees, pleading their cases, asserting their innocence and declaring their unjust imprisonment. While listening to these mournful pleas of innocence, Frederick's eye was caught by a solitary figure in the corner, a prisoner sitting quietly and all alone. "Why are you here?" Frederick asked him. "I am here for armed robbery, Your Majesty." "Are you guilty?" the king asked. "Oh yes, Your Majesty. I entirely deserve my punishment," the prisoner replied.  Frederick called the jailer. "Release this guilty man at once," he instructed. "I will not have him kept in this prison where he will undoubtedly corrupt all of these innocent people." 

When we come to Christ in a personal relationship, we are set free from guilt.  Right?  Then why do so many of us live each day waiting for God to "lower the boom"!  The mental tapes play repeatedly in our mind, "There must be some sin I have not confessed.  I really blew it!  How can God really love someone like me? I feel so guilty!"  Oh, friend!  You are playing right into the hand of Satan himself!  One of his favorite weapons of spiritual warfare is guilt.  If we are guilt-ridden, we are powerless and impotent.  Forgiveness seems like a pipe-dream.  Love is an unmerited gift and peace only a dream. 

A friend recently told me about a new product she found listed on the internet. "Disposable Guilt Bags" first appeared in a few select stores to test the market.  I could have told the inventor that guilt exists in abundance and that people will go to any lengths to assuage their guilt. My friend explained that you could buy a set of Disposable Guilt Bags, ten ordinary brown bags on which were printed the following instructions:  "Place the bag securely over your mouth then take a deep breath and blow out all of your guilt. Close the bag and dispose of immediately." The amazing part of this story is that the Associated Press reported that over 2500 kits had sold immediately at $2.50 per kit.  Unbelievable!  Actually, it isn't. Guilt is the gift that keeps on giving and we will do almost anything to escape it.

Nothing on this earth is powerful enough to erase guilt.  We try to "fix" ourselves but fail.  We try to "fix" others but fail.  The only power that can eliminate guilt is God's grace. "In Christ we are set free by the blood of his death. And so we have forgiveness of sins because of God's rich grace."  (Ephesians 1:7 NCV)  When our lives are lived against the backdrop of grace, guilt will die from a lack of attention. 

Let's Pray
Father, I am so tired of feeling guilty!  I desperately want to experience Your peace, Your love and Your forgiveness.  I know I am not worthy of Your grace, but I also know that Your grace is a gift, bought and paid for on the cross by Jesus Christ.  Please help me to live in the shadow of that cross, free from guilt.

In Jesus' name,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
Set aside some time today to spend with God.  On a sheet of paper, list the areas of your life that are sources of guilt.  Is there a sin you need to confess?  Confess it and accept God's forgiveness.  Is there a lie you need to abandon?  Let it go right now.  Is there someone you need to forgive?  Choose to forgive that person.  Has someone hurt you?  Forgive them and release the hurt. 

Thank God for His love, His peace and His grace.  Write out your prayer and read it each day this week.

More From The Girlfriends
Today's devotion is especially important to me because for so long, I allowed guilt to hold me prisoner.  Looking back, I'm not really sure why.  I just felt guilty ... about almost everything.  Girlfriend, accept God's gift of grace right now and lay down your guilt today.  Sharon, Gwen and I are celebrating with you - the freedom Christ brings.  Amen!

The holidays are just around the corner!  This year, why not give gifts that are life-changing?  Enroll a friend or family member in Mary's weekly online bible study, Light for the Journey.  The current topic is "7 Habits of a Powerful Life."  Browse through Mary's online store for that perfect gift of encouragement - a book, CD, MP3 download, E-Bible Study and special gift items.  Mary's Fall Sales Event is going on now!  Great prices on every item in the store and a free gift with every order!  Blessings!

Seeking God?
Click here to find out more about
how to have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.


Girlfriends in God
P.O. Box 725
Matthews, NC 28106
info@girlfriendsingod.com
www.girlfriendsingod.com

[Judy Harder]

October 5, 2009
I Can't-itis
Sharon Jaynes

Today's Truth
"I can do everything through him (Jesus) who gives me strength" (Philippians 4:13 NIV).

Friend To Friend
By the time my son was four-years-old, he had a bad case of the "I Can't-itis."  If he didn't have immediate success in an endeavor, his tendency was to throw up his chubby little hands and say, "I can't do it!"

When it came time to take the training wheels off his bike, a bad case of "I Can't-itis" crept in. For several hours, Steven tried to balance the two wheels, but crashed to the ground time and time again. "I can't do it," he stormed.

"You can't do it, yet," I encouraged.  "But you will.  And when you learn to ride your bike, it will be the funnest thing you do as a kid."

Steven looked me in the eye, placed his balled up hands on his little hips and slowly said, "This-is-not-fun-and-it-will-never-be-fun."

Oh, my, how I saw myself in those eyes. So many times when God is trying to teach me a life lesson or a new discipline, I lose my balance and want to quit.  He takes the training wheels off and sets me on the road of maturity, and sometimes I tumble to the ground. "I can't do it," I cry   "This is not fun and it will never be fun."

But God just keeps on working with me, holding the back of the bicycle until I learn to balance and keep moving straight ahead.  The next thing you know, I'm cruising down victory lane and God is smiling with joy and delight. 

A few days after Steven's declaration of defeat, he walked out the door, hopped on his little red bike, and peddled around the yard without losing his balance once.  And you know what, riding his bicycle was the funnest thing he ever did as a kid.

Remember Moses? Now he was a man with a bad case of "I Can't-itis. When God spoke to Moses through the burning bush and called him to lead the Israelites out of Egyptian bondage, Moses started shaking in his sandals. "What if they ask me Your name?" he questioned.  "What if they don't believe me?" "I've never been a good speaker." "Please pick someone else!"

God patiently answered each of Moses' arguments and gave him the cure for his cowardice. "I will be with you. I will help you," He replied (Exodus 3:12, 4:12). And friend, that is the cure for you and for me.

The devil would have us believe that we can't _________.  We can fill in that blank with any number of things. I can't live victoriously.  I can't control my emotions. I can't be a loving wife. I can't find a job. I can't control my eating. I can't control my tongue.

But that is a lie.  The truth is "I can do everything through him (Christ) who gives me strength!" Philippians 4:13. Who are you going to believe, the enemy who says "you can't," or God who says "you can?"

You'll be happy to know that Steven is now a twenty-five-year-old confident young man and only has occasional flares ups of "I Can't-it is"...as we all do.

Join me tomorrow as we look at a young man in the Bible who knew the cure for "I Can't-itis."

Let's Pray
Dear LORD, there are so many things that I cannot do ... in my own strength.  However, with Your power working through me, I can do anything that You call me to do.  I know that if You call me to it, You will see me through it.  If You give me the vision, You will give me the provision. I can do all things through him who gives me strength.

In Jesus' Name,
Amen and Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
Is there anything in your life that you feel God has called you to do, but you have answered with "I can't?"  It may not be by forming the words with your lips, but ignoring His leading with your actions.

What do you think God is waiting to hear from you?

More From The Girlfriends
Today's devotion was adapted from Sharon's book, I'm Not Good Enough...and Other Lies Women Tell Themselves.  If you've been listening to the lies of the enemy who tells you that you are "not good enough" it's time to stop!  Let's start believing God's truth that says you are a chosen, holy, cleansed, forgiven, empowered child of the King.

[Judy Harder]

October 6, 2009
The Cure for I Can't-itis
Sharon Jaynes

Today's Truth
"I can do everything through him (Jesus) who gives me strength" (Philippians 4:13 NIV).

Friend to Friend
Yesterday, we looked at a man who had a bad case of the "I Can't-itis.  Today, let's look at a young man who knew the cure.  His name was David.

It is during Saul's reign in Israel when we meet this young shepherd boy named David. The Israelites were at war with a powerful warrior-people known as the Philistines. The two warring factions camped on opposing hillsides with a valley in between.  It seemed the Philistines had a secret weapon named Goliath.  Goliath was over nine-feet tall, wore a bronze helmet and a coat of scale armor of bronze.

For forty days, morning and evening, this nine-foot giant of a man approached the battle lines and shouted at the Israelites, taunting and challenging them to a one-man duel.  God's chosen people were terrified and huddled together in fear. 

One day, David's father instructed him to take some lunch over to three of his brothers who were huddling among the Israelite army.  I can almost see him skipping happily along without a care in the world.  He heard the war cries, left the provisions at the camp, and ran out to the battle lines to see what all the commotion was about.  Just as he approached, Goliath came forward and shouted his usual defiant challenge.  While the soldiers turned and ran, David stood there in a cloud of dust and asked: "Who is this uncircumcised Philistine that he should defy the armies of the living God?" (1 Samuel 17:26).  In other words, "What's the big deal?"

This young shepherd boy confidently declared, "Let no one lose heart on account of this Philistine; your servant will go and fight him.  The LORD who delivered me from the paw of the lion and the paw of the bear will deliver me from the hand of this Philistines" (1 Samuel 32, 37).

Oh, I love it!  I love it!  David refused Saul's heavy cumbersome armor.  Wearing someone else's armor would allow them to get part of the glory and David wanted it perfectly clear that the victory would be God's alone.  He gathered five smooth stones, stood as tall and erect as his teenage lanky legs could stand, and confidently shouted at the towering enemy. 

"You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the LORD Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied.  This day the LORD will hand you over to me, and I'll strike you down and cut off your head.  Today I will give the carcasses of the Philistine army to the birds of the air and the beasts of the earth, and the whole world will know that there is a God in Israel.  All those gathered here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the LORD saves; for the battle is the LORD's and he will give all of you into our hands."

As Goliath began to move closer, David charged his enemy, placed a smooth stone in his sling, and took perfect aim.  The stone sunk into Goliath's forehead and he fell, face down on the ground.  Can't you just see the stunned Israelites, the shocked Philistines, and the smiling angels as little David stood over the giant with his foot pressed against the armor clad-chest?

I'm about to start shouting right now!  Go ahead!  Give a shout for the home team!

Now this is what I want us to see.  Yesterday we looked at Moses, a man who cowered when God called him into leadership. He said, "I can't."

David was a boy who took the bull by the horns, or rather the giant by the head, when faced with God's enemy. He was a boy who said, "God can." What made the difference?  Moses looked at his own abilities and said, "I can't.  I don't have what it takes."  David looked at the almighty God and said, "God can.  He has what it takes."

No matter what you are facing today.  No matter what giants are standing in your path, if God gives you the vision, He will give you the provision.  He may not call the equipped, but He always equips the called.  You have what it takes.  God has given you the power of the Holy Spirit.  That same power transformed Peter from a coward who denied he even knew Jesus after his arrest, into a commando who spoke out with confidence and passion after Jesus' ascension.

Satan wants us to believe that we don't have what it takes.  God's truth is that we have everything we need.  The power of the Holy Spirit has been given to us, is living in us, and working through us.  But here's the key. That power is for us who believe (Ephesians 1:18-20). The power is available, but we must believe to receive.

Satan tells me "I can't."

God tells me, "He already has."

The only obstacle keeping us from doing all that God has called us to do and being all that God has called us to be is our unbelief.  Jesus said, "All things are possible to those who believe."  .

If God has called you to it, He will see you through it. The truth is: "I can do everything through Christ who gives me strength!"

Let's Pray
Dear LORD, there are many giants in my life and I confess that I have let them scare me from time to time.  But today, I am standing with David in confident courage. The same God who empowered David empowers me.  Thank You for the gift of the Holy Spirit who gives me all the power I need to live in victory.

In Jesus' Name,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
When is the last time you had a case of "I Can't-itis?"

Yesterday?  This morning? 

Now, picture yourself with David and write your own rendition of 1 Samuel 17:26 and 37.

I'd love to see what you wrote!  If you'd like to share, just log onto www.sharonjaynes.com/blog and go the comment section of today's devotion.

More From The Girlfriends
Today's devotion was adapted from Sharon's book, I'm Not Good Enough...and Other Lies Women Tell Themselves.  If you've been listening to the lies of the enemy who tells you that you are "not good enough" it's time to stop!  Let's start believing God's truth that says you are a chosen, holy, cleansed, forgiven, empowered child of the King.

Seeking God?
Click here to find out more about
how to have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.


Girlfriends in God
P.O. Box 725
Matthews, NC 28106
info@girlfriendsingod.com

[Judy Harder]

October 7, 2009
Put Your Faith Where Your Action Is!
Gwen Smith

Today's Truth
"Faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead." James 2:17, NIV

Friend To Friend
I remember a time, back in 1993, when I was swept up in the whimsical world of wedding planning. Every detail mattered. I was excited to be marrying Brad Smith, and wanted our wedding day to be a magical springboard to a life filled with amazing adventures and deep years of God-centered love. From the cake choices - to the dress choices - to the music choices - to the guest list choices - to the bridal registry choices: I was all about the business of wedding prep!

The bride of Christ is purposed to be all about the Father's business. To prep for eternity by making choices to bring Him glory throughout our days. To intentionally worship the Lord through our service. As daughters of God, we are called to connect our believing to our behaving. Our convictions to our conversations. Our lip-service to our life-service. The Biblical mandate for each believer is this: put your faith where your action is!

"Faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead." (James 2:17)

Hear me out here. Service is not the key to gaining salvation. Salvation comes by faith in Christ alone (Romans 10:9-10). Service is, however, essential for the believer as a response to her salvation. "For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do" (Ephesians 2:10).

No matter who you are or what your platform is in life, the truth remains that whatever you do and say is being watched. Everyone emanates something. A radiant Christian woman - a radiant bride of Christ - emanates the saltiness and light of Jesus through her life, as displayed through the things she does and doesn't do.

Jesus said, "You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled by men.

You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven" (Matthew 5:13-16, NIV).

Today, I pray that you are spurred on to be a woman of action for Christ - no matter what the circumstances of your life or the complexities of your relationships may be. From your word choices - to your tone choices - to your television choices - to your music choices - to your service choices - to your activity choices - be all about your Father's business. Go in His strength, and put your faith where your action is!

Let's Pray
Holy Father, I pray that You will help my actions to line up with Your perfect will. Help me to be Your hands and feet to those around me. Shine through my actions so others might be drawn to Your healing hope.

In Jesus' Name,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
What does your life radiate? What are your actions saying about your faith? Are you salty for Christ in what you do and say? Spend a few moments reflecting on this and then spend some time in prayer.

How can you serve someone today? Perhaps God is leading you to bless someone in your household ... or someone in your church ... or someone in your neighborhood. Could you reach out to a single mom, a family member, a widow, or a hurting friend? Ask God to direct you to opportunities to put your faith into action in the lives of others.

More From The Girlfriends
Trust me, friend, in no way am I trying to place the burden of "you-must-do-more-things-in-order-to-please-God" on you. I just want to encourage you to make the most of every choice and every action. If you feel so drained and weary that you can't imagine being able to give anyone anything right now, be sure to get alone with God. His presence and His Spirit will strengthen you for each moment.

GOT FACEBOOK? Stop by Gwen's Facebook Music Page at www.Facebook.com/GwenSmithMusic. While you're there, be sure to listen to a few songs, leave a message on her wall, and add her as a friend!

GOT BEAUTY? God delights to transform lives...including your own.  In her book, Broken Into Beautiful, Gwen Smith invites you to experience how the unconditional love of Jesus can change your life and then stand back and watch the wonder of grace at work.  He is willing to eternally forgive and forget and to transform your life into something beautiful.

GOT A HEART FOR WORSHIP? Download Gwen's live worship CD, Unsearchable, from iTunes, or order the CD from the store on her website.

Seeking God?
Click here to find out more about
how to have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

Girlfriends in God
P.O. Box 725
Matthews, NC 28106
info@girlfriendsingod.com
www.girlfriendsingod.com

[Judy Harder]

October 8, 2009
A Promise from the Pit
Mary Southerland

Today's Truth
James 1:1-2 (NIV) "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance."

Friend To Friend
From the age of ten, our son, Jered, played football with one goal in mind - to be a starting player on a college football team.  When he graduated from high school, and was recruited by a wonderful college that offered him an academic and athletic scholarship, we were ecstatic! Go God!

Jered was red-shirted as a freshman and during his sophomore year, became the starting fullback. It was so exciting to see our son's childhood dream become a reality. Although his team had a less than stellar season that year, Jered loved playing and had a great year as he developed physically, learned the complicated play system and took on that "veteran" mindset. 

The following summer, Jered was unusually excited about the approaching football season.  The college hired several coaches who seemed to have a new plan in mind for the upcoming year.  All summer long, Jered faithfully ran, lifted weights, watched his diet and called teammates with the encouragement, "This is our year!" Even the brutal regimen of pre-season practice was taken in stride ... until the last play ... of the last practice.  I will never forget that phone call from our son.  "I hurt my knee in practice today.  I have to have surgery which means I am out for the whole season."  I listened in disbelieving silence that quickly escalated its way to fury.  Surely, I had heard him wrong.  This couldn't be happening because God wouldn't let it happen - would He?  Not to Jered.  He had worked so hard.  He had been so faithful.  Why Jered?  Why this?  Why now?  It's one thing for me to "face trials of many kinds" but it is a totally different matter altogether for my son to face them. 

Jered is every mother's dream - sweet natured, gentle, hard working - a rare young man of integrity who loves and serves God.  How could this "pit experience" possibly be the best plan for his life?  God clearly answered that question as we sat in the stands, week after week, watching Jered pace the sidelines on crutches while cheering his team on.  He didn't miss a single rehab session, team practice or team meeting.  I never heard him complain or question. Coaches, doctors, trainers, teammates and parents witnessed a living illustration of the truth that the "testing of your faith develops perseverance".  Jered's faith was indeed tested and he passed with flying colors! Jered returned the next year as starting fullback and his team finished the season as the undefeated conference champions.  I love it when a plan really does come together!

Are you sitting at the bottom of a pit?  Do you feel as if God has not only deserted you but "set you up" for a season of pain and failure?  Is your heart filled with anger?  Are you discouraged?  Celebrate, my friend!  God is fully aware of your circumstances and will use it all for your good and His glory!

Let's Pray
Father, forgive me for my complaining and questioning spirit in this pit.  Help me to see Your hand at work in every trial and celebrate all You are doing in my life through that difficult circumstance.  I choose joy!  I choose to believe You and trust You in the darkness as well as in the light.  Thank You for the gift of testing and the reward of perseverance. 

In Jesus' name,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn 

Think back to a "pit" experience and remember your initial response. Evaluate that response in light of the truth that since trials develop perseverance, we can face each one with joy.   
During that difficult time, did you question God?  In what way(s)?  Be specific. 
Looking back, would you say that the trial strengthened your faith in God or lessened it?  Explain your answer. 
Pinpoint one truth gained from your "pit" experience.  Make a list of specific ways you can apply that truth to your daily walk. 
In regard to this "pit" experience, answer the questions, "Why me?  Why now?  Why this?" 
Read and memorize Proverbs 3:5-6 (NKJV) "Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths."   
More From The Girlfriends
I hate pits!  I know God uses them for my good and that the struggle through each one strengthens my faith.  But that does not mean my feelings match my faith.  In fact, feelings have nothing to do with faith but we often confuse the two.  Faith is a deliberate choice, an agreement between you and God about His truth.  Your feelings may or may not match that choice.  It doesn't matter.  God understands that our frail humanity includes fickle feelings that can rarely be trusted.  Instead, trust God.  Trust His Word!   

Light for the Journey is Mary's weekly online bible study and offers practical and powerful tools for daily living.  Check it out!  The current topic is "7 Habits of a Powerful Life." 

Looking for resources to help you grow in Christ?  Visit Mary's online store for a great selection of books, CDs, MP3 downloads, E-Bible Studies and more!  Take advantage of the Fall Savings going on now!

Seeking God?
Click here to find out more about
how to have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.


Girlfriends in God
P.O. Box 725
Matthews, NC 28106
info@girlfriendsingod.com
www.girlfriendsingod.com

[Judy Harder]

October 9, 2009
The Dark Cloud
Leslie Nease

We hope you are enjoying the Girlfriends in God daily devotions.  We (Mary, Sharon, and Gwen) would like to introduce you to some of our special friends.  From time-to-time, the Friday devotions will be written by one of our friends in ministry.  We call them our "Friday Friends."  So grab your Bible and a fresh cup of coffee and drink in the words from our "Friday Friend", Leslie Nease.

Today's Truth
"For this is what the Sovereign LORD says: 'I myself will search for my sheep and look after them. As a shepherd looks after his scattered flock when he is with them, so will I look after my sheep. I will rescue them from all the places where they were scattered on a day of clouds and darkness'" Ezekiel 34:11-12

Friend To Friend
Ever have one of those days when you feel like there is a dark cloud following you around? It's like a heaviness that keeps you almost paralyzed with fear or frustration. Honestly, it can be quite overwhelming. Am I speaking your language?

These "cloudy" days come at such unexpected times - usually the most inopportune times, if you ask me. Yesterday was one of those days for me. I had this overpowering feeling of dread.  All day I tried to figure it out but was so busy getting the kids in school that I couldn't really stop and find a solution. Last night, my husband and I took a long walk and we talked about it.  He said "Just be still and rest tomorrow. Slow down and just try to get alone with God.  You will figure it out."

This morning, I decided it was time. So I prayed, opened my Bible and began my search for answers. I don't want another day like yesterday! I read my daily Bible reading and came across this verse in Psalm 105:39 "The Lord spread a cloud above them as a covering and gave them a great fire to light the darkness." He was talking about the Israelites during their Exodus out of Egypt. I like the thought that God "covered" them with this cloud.  It almost seemed protective and not scary at all. I thought that was very interesting, so I decided to look up all the instances where the word "cloud" was mentioned.

The word "cloud" is mentioned 153 times in the Bible and the vast majority of those times, it was used to describe God's presence. Interesting! When God's presence was in the form of a thick cloud at the Tabernacle, the Israelites camped out and didn't move. Once the cloud would lift, they would pack up camp and move on.

Numbers 9:20-22 says: "Sometimes the cloud was over the tabernacle only a few days; at the LORD's command they would encamp, and then at his command they would set out. Sometimes the cloud stayed only from evening till morning, and when it lifted in the morning, they set out. Whether by day or by night, whenever the cloud lifted, they set out. Whether the cloud stayed over the tabernacle for two days or a month or a year, the Israelites would remain in camp and not set out; but when it lifted, they would set out."

The Israelites were commanded by God to be still when the cloud was present. This truth is certainly not lost on me. I think my husband was absolutely right. God may be trying to get my attention with this heavy, dark cloud He has allowed to come over me. I need to camp out, slow down and seek Him with everything in me until the cloud disappears.

I can't say the cloud has completely lifted as of yet, but I can say with great confidence that I have met with the Creator of the Universe in my dark, cloudy day and He has shown me great fire to light the darkness. When He blacked out the rest of the world, He slowed me down so I could focus on His promises. He has shown me Light in this darkness that I would not have seen had I not experienced the cloud.  If you have a cloud hovering over you today, seek Him. He is in the darkness and He is waiting to meet with you.  In fact, the cloud could be His blessed invitation to meet one on one with Him! What a privilege!

Let's Pray
Father, I thank You for Your unfathomable ways.  You are so good, so persistent and so patient with me.  I pray that when a heavy, dark day comes my way that instead of succumbing to the heaviness that I will look to the Light of Your presence and seek You instead of hiding under the covers.  Please remind me daily of the privilege of having a God who cares, who slows me down when I'm going too fast and gives me everything I need.  I love You. 

In Jesus' Name,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
Can you trust God even in the dark days of this world?  What practical steps will you take the next time one of these days presents itself to avoid falling into the temptation to give up?

Take a few minutes to spend and read Psalm 23, meditating on the truths of this amazing passage of Scripture.  Write down the promises that our Shepherd gives to us so you can refer to them the next time the cloud comes your way.

Pray to the Lord and thank Him for the dark days that help us to appreciate those days of Light that much more!

More From The Girlfriends
Leslie Nease is a women's and youth ministry speaker and writer who resides in Tega Cay, SC.  Her ministry is called "Get Gutsy for God."  She is a former Christian radio host for New Life 91.9 and 106.9 The Light and was a contestant on the hit reality show "Survivor China" in 2007.  For more information on her ministry and to find her blog and some free resources and encouragement, please visit her at www.leslienease.com.  You can also find her on facebook at www.facebook.com/leslienease.

Seeking God?
Click here to find out more about
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Girlfriends in God
P.O. Box 725
Matthews, NC 28106
info@girlfriendsingod.com
www.girlfriendsingod.com

[Judy Harder]

October 12, 2009
Taming the Tongue
Sharon Jaynes

Today's Truth
"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control" (Galatians 5:22 NIV).

Friend To Friend
Martha is a sweet older woman who is in the intermediate stages of Alzheimer's disease.  Perhaps one of the most radical changes in her behavior, besides memory loss, is her inability to control her tongue.  Martha has always used her words in a positive way, but in these latter years, her words have become unrestrained.  Her ability to keep unkind or hurtful words from escaping her lips is impaired.  She can't help it.  It is part of the disease that is ravaging her mind.  But watching my dear friend has helped me realized the importance of restraining our tongues.  It is a sign of physical, spiritual, and emotional health.

When I was young, I loved reading the story of the stately steed, Black Beauty.  In my early teens, I enjoyed visiting my friend Cammie and riding horses on her parents' dairy farm.  We often clicked our heels and raced through the fields with reckless abandonment.

The horse is a powerful animal, yet with the tug of the reins or the tap of a heel, he will submit to his master's bidding.  On the other hand, a wild stallion that has not been brought under the control of a master is of very little use.

In the Bible, we are instructed to have a spirit of gentleness which tempers the words we speak (Galatians 5:23).  The Greek word for gentleness is prautes, and suggests a wild horse that has been tamed.  Unfortunately, in our modern society, the word gentleness connotes being weak.  However, the Greek word means anything but weak.  Picture a muscular steed, proudly holding his head, poised to move with speed and power, nostrils flaring, but at the same time, under his master's control.  It is the picture of a warhorse under the control of its master.  That is a true picture of prautes - gentleness.

The same word, prautes, is translated "meek" in the King James Version.  When Jesus said He was "meek and lowly in heart" (Matthew 11:29), He was saying He was submitted to God - mightily powerful but under God's control.  Only when we submit our tongues to God will we have the ability to use our words for good.  Meekness isn't weakness; it's power under control.  It is taming and training our tongues to be under the submission and control of the Holy Spirit.

Let me give you an example. Oh, I hate to admit this, but I fear many sisters will relate - the dents in my armor attest to it.

Before I became a Christian, I was very "gifted" with a quick sarcastic wit.  Have you ever been in an argument and two hours later thought of a great comeback or slam remark?  Not me.  I could think of them on the spot.  I was good - so good.  Why, I could have opened up a side business feeding disgruntled wives, employees and friend's quick comebacks through earphones during confrontations.  However, after I accepted Christ as my Savior, it didn't take the Holy Spirit long to convict me that my tongue was not glorifying God.  Sure, it brought some laughs, but Jesus wasn't smiling.  So I began the arduous task of taming the tongue.

I memorized Job 40:4, "I put my hand over my mouth" and bit my tongue.  It was hard letting all those good sarcastic comments go to waste, but I knew they were only fit for the garbage heap.

That was over thirty years ago.  On many occasions, when someone is telling me about a confrontation with a family member or a co-worker, those quick witted remarks still pop up in my mind like a cue card on the stage.  When a store clerk offers a snide remark, I can usually think of one more snide.  So where's the victory?  The victory comes when I choose not to let the words out of my mouth. When I lasso the words before they have a chance to run out of the gate. When I offer blessings rather than cursing.  When I put on the humility of Christ and take the comments without the retaliation.  That, my friend, is choosing to walk in the Spirit instead of choosing to walk in the flesh.  It can only happen by the power of the Holy Spirit, and it becomes easier with practice.

Let's Pray
Heavenly Father, I pray that the fruit of the Spirit will grow in my life today.  I pray that the evidence of that fruit in my life will be in the words I speak to others.  Help my fruit to be sweet today.  Show me where I need to clip off unproductive branches that hinder healthy growth.

In Jesus' Name,
Amen

Now It's Your Turn

OK, girlfriend, I was honest with you today.  Are you willing to be honest with someone about an area that you need to change?  Accountability is a powerful tool for change.  If there is an area in your life that God has convicted you needs to change, tell a girlfriend and ask her to hold you accountable.  Ask her to pray with you about the desired to change and invite her to ask you about your progress. That's what girlfriends in God are for!

I love hearing from my GiGs. If you would like to comment on today's devotion, visit www.sharonjaynes.com/blog .

More From The Girlfriends
Today's devotion is taken from Sharon's book, The Power of a Woman's Word. In this book, you can explore the power you possess, the people you impact, the potential for change, and the profound possibilities. As you harness this mighty force, you will begin to use words to speak life to those around you. This book also has a companion Bible study guide. Get one for yourself, or gather a group of girlfriends to learn and grow together.

Seeking God?
Click here to find out more about
how to have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.


Girlfriends in God
P.O. Box 725
Matthews, NC 28106
info@girlfriendsingod.com
www.girlfriendsingod.com

[Judy Harder]

October 13, 2009
Between Faith and a Hard Place
Gwen Smith

Today's Truth
"Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you'll recover your life. I'll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me--watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won't lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you'll learn to live freely and lightly." (Matthew 11:28-29, MSG)

Friend To Friend
C.H. Spurgeon wrote, "God often sends us trials that our graces may be discovered, and that we may be certified of their existence. Besides, it is not merely discovery, real growth in grace is the result of sanctified trials. God often takes away our comforts and our privileges in order to make us better Christians. He trains His soldiers, not in tents of ease and luxury, but by turning them out them to forced marches and hard service. He makes them ford through streams, and swim through rivers, and climb mountains, and walk many a long mile with heavy knapsacks of sorrow on their backs. Well, Christian, may not this account for the troubles through which thou art passing? Is not the Lord bringing out your graces, and making them grow? Is not this the reason why He is contending with you?"

Like C. H. Spurgeon, the Bible tells us hard truths.  It doesn't paint a rosy picture.  It actually paints a thorny picture.  It promises hardship. It assures us that in this life there will be troubles...times when we find ourselves caught between faith and a hard place.

Christianity is no free lunch. Faith in Christ doesn't shield us from troubles but it does help us through them. There are natural tensions here.  Questions that beg to be asked:

            Is God really all loving? Yes.
            Is God always good? Yes.
            Will we each find ourselves caught between faith and hard places? Yes.

Many television preachers, churches and groups will tell you differently, but the truth remains: faith is an anchor of hope for the believer. Jesus spoke of the hard times we would face. "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world" (John 16:33, NIV, emphasis mine).

I don't have all the answers to life's hard questions, and I don't know why His hand brings healing to some and not to others, but I do know that when we take our burdens to Jesus, we can experience peace in each hard place. God is always faithful, whether we are delivered from our hard places or through them.

As Christians, we have faith in a person, God.  Faith in and of itself is meaningless, but faith in an all-seeing, all-knowing, all-powerful, loving heavenly Father means everything...because - though our problems come and go - He is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:.

I'm not sure what hard places you face today, but God knows exactly where you are and what you're facing. When you find yourself between faith and a hard place, even in the times when you don't know what to pray, turn to the Lord. God hears every cry and loves you deeply. He's placed two Scriptures on my heart to share with you:

"Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight." Proverbs 3:5-6

"But now, this is what the LORD says--he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel: "Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the LORD, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior." Isaiah 43:1-3a

Let's Pray
Dear Lord, Thanks for the reminder that I never have to walk through a trial without You. Help me to trust You in everything...even when I don't understand. Today, I bring _____________ to You and ask that You would move powerfully in and through this burden of my heart.

In Jesus' Name,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn

Read Psalm 34.

What verses spoke to your heart? Write them down, speak them out loud, commit them to memory and journal if you like to journal.

More From The Girlfriends

Are you hurting? You aren't alone. Let's pray for one another today. If you want to be encouraged and interact with other GiGs (Girlfriends in God) - visit my Facebook page at: http://www.facebook.com/GwenSmithMusic. Today will be set aside to intentionally bless one another through sharing Scripture and praying for one another. See you there.

God delights to transform lives...including your own.  In her book, Broken Into Beautiful, Gwen Smith invites you to experience how the unconditional love of Jesus can change your life and then stand back and watch the wonder of grace at work.  He is willing to eternally forgive and forget and to transform your life into something beautiful.

Like saving money?  Check out the SPECIALS on Gwen's website!  When you order more than one CD, you save!! J

Download Gwen's live worship CD, Unsearchable, from iTunes, or order the CD from the store on her website. If you don't have the resources to invest in your worship library right now, listen to Gwen's music FREE on her MUSIC FACEBOOK PAGE: http://www.facebook.com/GwenSmithMusic.

Seeking God?
Click here to find out more about
how to have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.


Girlfriends in God
P.O. Box 725
Matthews, NC 28106
info@girlfriendsingod.com
www.girlfriendsingod.com

[Judy Harder]

October 14, 2009
Faith in the Shepherd
Mary Southerland

Today's Truth
Psalm 23:1-6 "The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not be in want. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul.  He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies.  You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever" (NIV).

Friend To Friend
Can you believe the holidays are just around the corner? Stores are already filled with Christmas decorations.  Television ads for the newest and best toys multiply every day.  It won't be long until we are wringing our hands, wondering where the money for Christmas gifts is going to come from, a fact that must sadden the heart of God.  To think that our first thoughts of His birth are wrapped in financial distress is a clear indication that we do not understand and live on the sufficiency of God. 

Have you noticed that it is always more fun to pay the bills when you actually have money to pay them instead of holding what my husband calls "The Monthly Draw"?  The Southerland Monthly Draw is held when there are more bills than money. The rules are quite simple. All of the bills are placed in a stack. Dan then rifles through the stack, drawing out one of the bills to pay. This process continues until there is no more money.  The rest of the bills have to wait until more money comes in.  Sound familiar?

One morning, when I walked into the study, I could immediately tell by the look on Dan's face that the "draw" was not going so well. Finances had been extremely tight for a variety of reasons.  Dan and I had prayed our way through that month, knowing that the next few months would only hold more of the same. I debated whether I should stick around to offer encouragement or run for the hills. I decided to stay. "Honey, can I help?" Dan looked up at me with a weak grin and said, "Not unless you have $900.00." Oh, boy! It was worse than I thought. Seeing the look on my face, my sweet husband quickly added, "Don't worry, honey, God always comes through." Now I must admit that at that precise moment, I would have preferred a tangible sample of God's provision. You know - something along the lines of a money tree in the back yard or an oil well in the front. I went to my desk, hoping to find a forgotten check from a speaking event or book sale.  I came up empty.  An examination of my check register was even more depressing.  Did we really need two children?  Maybe we should sell one!  (Just kidding)  As I racked my brain for some way to "provide", I realized that I was stepping dangerously close to Sapphira Territory. "Lord, I want to trust you as my Provider but right now, we really need $900.00", I informed the God of the Universe.  How is that for a prayer of faith? 

Dan did all he could do with the stack of bills and went next door to visit our neighbor while I stayed home, plotting and scheming ways to come up with $900.00.  In fact, I spent the rest of the day in what my mother called "a tizzy" because as far as I could see, there was no plot and there was no scheme remotely looming in the Southerland picture that could produce the needed amount of money.  And that was the problem.  I was only looking "as far as I could see".

Finally, I left the need at His feet and went on with what was left of my day. As I began to prepare dinner, I remembered that I had forgotten to check the mail and headed outside. There it was, God's perfect provision just sitting in our mailbox, waiting for me to come - an unexpected check for $949.64.  Dan and I became aware of our need that morning.  The check was mailed several days before.  God met the need before the need was evident. He always does! In Philippians 4:19, Paul reminds us that our God will "meet all our needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus." 

I often learn the most life-changing lessons at the feet of children.  Ellie is the five-year-old granddaughter of a very close friend, Gina, who is known to cheer me up by sharing an "Ellie-ism".  Not long ago, Gina was telling me about the prayer Ellie had prayed the night before at dinner. The meal was ready.  Everyone in the family was seated, and Ellie volunteered to say the blessing.  Every adult at the table smiled, wondering what childish offering they were about to hear.  What they heard was profound truth from God as spoken through the words of a child.  Head bowed, hands folded, Ellie prayed, "God is great.  God is good.  Let us thank Him for our food.  By His hand, we all are fed.  Give us, Lord our daily bread.  THE END!"  That about sums it up! 

Just as the shepherd meets every need of his sheep, God meets our every need. Just as the sheep totally depend upon their shepherd's care and provision, we would be wise to depend totally upon God.  He is our Provider.  He is our Source and in light of that reality, stress flees, leaving only peace.  As the holidays approach, fix your heart on God, rely upon your Shepherd, and trust Him to meet every need in your life and rest in the fact that He is the beginning ... and the end. 

My Psalm 23

The Lord is my Shepherd
You are my Identity
I shall not want
You are my Provision
He makes me lie down in green pastures
You are my Rest
He leads me beside the still waters
You are my Replenishment
He restores my soul
You are my Healing
He leads me in the paths of righteousness
You are my Guide
For His name's sake
You are my Purpose
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death
You are my Strength
I will fear no evil
You are my Security
For You are with me
You are my Peace
Your rod and your staff they comfort me.
You are my Deliverer
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies
You are my Hope
You anoint my head with oil
You are my Blessing
My cup runs over
You are my Abundance
Surely, goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life
You are my Promise
And I will dwell in the house of the Lord
You are my Future
Forever
You are my All in All
(Mary Southerland)

Let's Pray
Father, thank You for meeting every need in my life, just as a shepherd meets the needs of his sheep.  I turn to You as my Source.  I celebrate Your perfect provision and praise You for being my Shepherd.  When I am afraid, help me to remember that You are here.  When life is uncertain, help me to depend upon the certainty of Your Word.  Today, I choose to rest in Your care, knowing that You are enough.

In Jesus' name,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn 

I challenge you to read Psalm 23 every day this week.     
At the end of the week, make a list of the ways God has provided for you and met your needs.   
Evaluate your role as a "sheep." Are you a willing follower of the Shepherd or do you tend to "do your own thing?"  How is that working for you?  Be honest.   
What change do you need to make in attitude and behavior in order to experience the perfect provision of God in your life?

More From The Girlfriends
As the holidays approach, the stress level in my life tends to rise.  Is the same true for you?  For many, this holiday season is especially stressful as people deal with the loss of jobs and struggle to make ends meet. Just this week, I have made a new commitment to read Psalm 23 every day this month as a way to prepare my heart for the holidays.  Will you join me? 

Need help?  Mary's book, Escaping the Stress Trap, is based on Psalm 23, includes a chapter-by-chapter study guide and will encourage you and help you deal with the stress in your life.  Be sure to check out Light for the Journey, Mary's weekly online bible study.  Make plans today for the best holiday season of your life!  Blessings!

Seeking God?
Click here to find out more about
how to have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.


Girlfriends in God
P.O. Box 725
Matthews, NC 28106
info@girlfriendsingod.com
www.girlfriendsingod.com