Girlfriends in God

[Judy Harder]

April 2, 2010 

Taking Every Thought Captive 

Part 2 

Sharon Jaynes

Today's Truth
"For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does.  The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world.  On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds.  We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ" (2 Corinthians 10:3-5 NIV).

Friend To Friend
Yesterday, we looked at 2 Corinthians 10:5 and the idea of taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ. This battle is not fought with hand-to-hand combat, but with spirit-to-spirit warfare.  Every spiritual battle is won or lost at the threshold of the mind; right as the calf comes bursting through the door.  Let's look at four simple steps for taking every thought captive and lassoing those run-away thoughts.

STEP ONE

Realize the Enemy's True Identity

On Tuesday morning, September 11, 2001, after I got my son off to school and my husband off to work, I took a long walk through my neighborhood. The sky was crystal clear blue with a gentle breeze blowing through my hair. It was a gorgeous cool North Carolina fall day with just a hint of color on the leaves.  There was nothing special on my schedule - just the ordinary.  However, one hour later, because of a horrendous terrorist attack on our country in New York City and Washington, DC, by evil personified, the day turned into anything but ordinary.  I watched in horror as the television played and replayed the airplanes crashing into the World Trade Center towers and the Pentagon.

Amazingly, we never saw it coming.  It started out as just an ordinary day.  As I thought about that, God reminded me: That's how the enemy always attacks. When you least expect it.

Let's think about another monumental day in our country's history. On December 31, 1999, the country and the world braced for the potentially disastrous effects of Y2K.  Families and businesses alike prepared for months for what might occur as the clock ticked past 11:59 PM.  We held our breaths, clasped our hands and braced ourselves.  Yes, we were ready. What happened? Nothing.  The new millennium came without incident. And yet, on an ordinary day, September 11, 2001, when we least expected it, an evil force attacked our country as never before in history.

Oh dear friends, do you see the correlation?  There is an enemy who seeks to kill, steal, and destroy (John 10:10).  His name is Satan.  He desires to destroy us just as sure as the hijackers drove those airplanes into, and toppled, the twin towers in New York City.

Satan has other names - the devil, the accuser of the brethren, a liar and the father of lies, the deceiver.  A deceiver is someone who presents a lie in such a way, it sounds like the truth.  He can make you believe something is not true when it is and make you believe something is true when it isn't.  He speaks in your own voice.  The thoughts feel like you, because they are the old you that he has memorized so well.  He's not very creative, but he is very effective and he uses the same methods with us he's used since the beginning of time.

The first step to changing the way we think is to recognize the enemy's true identity.  It's not your mother; it's not your father; it's not the person who abused you as a child.  The real enemy is Satan himself and he uses your past hurts and failures as canon fodder.  If you don't have sufficient ammo in your past, he concocts some of his own.

Join me in our next devotion as we look at Step Two to taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ.

Let's Pray
Dear Heavenly Father, I know that I cannot win a battle if I do not know who I am fighting.  Help me to recognize the enemy's true identity.  Spiritual warfare is very real. Today, I put on the armor of God and stand firm against the powers of the enemy.  I am more than a conqueror through the power of Jesus Christ.

In His Name I pray and stand,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
Can you think of a time when you blamed someone for a difficulty in your life when it might have been an attack of the enemy?

Go back and read John 10:10.  What does the enemy desire to do?

What is he called in John 8:44?

Why do you think it is important to know who the real enemy is in order to win the battle?

More From The Girlfriends
Every spiritual battle is won at the threshold of the mind.  If you would like to learn more about how to take every thought captive and read Sharon's entire teaching on this subject, see I'm Not Good Enough...and Other Lies Women Tell Themselves. We cannot change the way we act before we change the way we think. We can't change the way we think if we don't know what we're up against. This resource will help you change that stinkin' thinkin' and see yourself as God sees you!

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]

April 5, 2010 

Taking Every Thought Captive 

Part 3 

Sharon Jaynes

Today's Truth
"We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ" (2 Corinthians 10:5 NIV).

Friend To Friend
My neighbor, Michael, was a stand-in for Samuel, the nine-year-old son of Benjamin Martin (Mel Gibson) in the movie The Patriot.  For months, Michael wore his long hair with extensions, slipped on Italian knickers and knee-high stockings and acted the part of an American colonial boy.  He traveled to rural South Carolina where part of the movie was filmed and received an education in the production of the silver screen.  Michael saw how producers and makeup artists made something appear as though it were real.  The movie was rated R for violent content, but his parents let nine-year-old Michael watch it upon release.  The movie was a bloody realistic reenactment of the horrors of the Revolutionary War.  However, during the guts and gore, little Michael didn't even bat an eye.  Why?  He knew it was not real.

During one scene, Mel Gibson pummeled a British soldier and landed a hatchet square in the middle of his bloody forehead.  I covered my eyes. Michael watched nonplussed. His comment?

"That guy walked around on the set with that hatchet in his head for three days.  We even ate lunch together and he had that hatchet with fake blood glued to his face.  It isn't real."

Michael knew what was true and it removed all fear.  That is the power of the truth.   Yesterday we looked at step one to taking every thought captive.  Today let's look at step tw

Step One: Recognize the Enemy's True Identity

Step Two: Recognize Satan's Lies

In 2 Corinthians 2:11 Paul says, "We are not unaware of the enemy's (Satan's) schemes." So let's take a few moments and look at his battle plan.  "The One who is in you is greater than the one that is in the world" (I John: 4:4) and Paul reminds us "in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us" (Romans 8:37). But let's see how this defeated foe operates and plays with our minds so we can recognize the lies when he fires them at us.

If Satan came to you in a little red suit with a pitchfork and announced himself as the devil, you would not believe a word he said.  But he is cunning and disguises himself as an angel of light (2 Corinthians 11:14).  When he deceived Eve, he even quoted Scripture - albeit twisted and distorted.  He has a collection of old tapes from your past and pushes rewind and play, rewind and play.  Oh yes, he knows just which buttons to push.  He also uses personal pronouns like "I" instead of "you."  The thoughts sound something like this: "I am a failure. I am a loser. I can't do anything right. I am ugly."  The thoughts sound like us, feel like us, and before you know it, we think it is us. He did this all throughout Scripture and he still does it today.

Satan knows exactly which lies to whisper in your ear.  He has watched you over the years and is well acquainted with your insecurities, weaknesses, and vulnerabilities.  Do you tend to get discouraged?  He will plant seeds of discouragement in your mind.  Do you tend to feel rejection and loneliness?  He will put ideas that you are rejected in your mind. But are they true?  No, they are not.  You can do all things through Christ who gives you strength.  You are loved and chosen by God.  That is the truth. 

Here is a simple exercise.  If you aren't sure if a thought is of the enemy, attach, "In Jesus Name," to the end of it.  For example:  "I can't stand that woman, in Jesus' Name."  "I don't love my husband, in Jesus' Name."  I am a loser, in Jesus Name."  Just doesn't fit does it?  Now, that is not a fail-safe method for detecting the truth versus a lie, but it is a quick litmus test that takes us in the right direction.

Step two in taking every thought captive is recognizing Satan's lies.

Join me tomorrow as we look at step three to taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ.

Let's Pray
Dear Lord, Help me to recognize Satan's lies.  I know the only way to recognize a lie is to know the truth. I pray that the Holy Spirit will convict me when I believe a lie and that He will help me see Your truth. 

In Jesus' Name,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
Think of some of the negative thoughts that have run through your mind this week.  Now attach "in Jesus' Name" to the end of that thought.  What does that reveal?

What are some lies that you have believed about who you are?  For example: I am a loser.  I can't do anything right.  I am used goods.  I can never be forgiven.  I am too far-gone.

Friend, each one of those is a lie of the enemy. Now, who does God say that you are?  Whom are you going to believe?

More From The Girlfriends
This series of lessons is taken from Sharon's book, Becoming Spiritually Beautiful - Seeing Yourself from God's Perspective. However, these particular lessons had such a great impact, she wrote a follow-up book, I'm Not Good Enough...and Other Lies Women Tell Themselves that goes into much greater detail on how to overcome the lies of the enemy.  If you struggle in this area, I'm Not Good Enough is the book for you. You can find both 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]

April 6, 2010 

Taking Every Thought Captive 

Part 4 

Sharon Jaynes

Today's Truth
"We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ" (2 Corinthians 10:5 NIV).

Friend To Friend
This week we have been looking at four steps for taking every thought captive.  Today, let's look at step three: Reject the Lie

Once I had a door-to-door vacuum salesman come to my house.  To my detriment, I let him in.  Before I could convince him I did not need a new vacuum cleaner, he had his demonstration trash sprinkled all over my foyer floor.  Almost two hours later, I finally got him to leave.

What was my first mistake? You know it! My first mistake was to let him cross the threshold of my doorway and enter my house.  Once he was in, it was difficult to get him out.  It is the same way with our thoughts.  Once we entertain a thought, once we allow the "salesman" to scatter his "trash" in our minds, it is hard to dismiss it or push it back out again.  The place of easiest victory is at the threshold; don't even let the trash in the door.  It has been said, "Every spiritual battle is won or lost at the threshold of the mind."  I think victory is possible once the thought has passed over the threshold, but it sure will save us a lot of heartache and pain if we begin to recognize Satan's lies and reject them from the start.

Let's go back to 2 Corinthians 10:3-5 and dig a little deeper by discovering the rich meaning of some of the key words in the original Greek language of the New Testament.

For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does.  The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world.  On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds.  We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.

This verse tells us that through Christ, we have the power to demolish strongholds. What is a stronghold?  The Greek word for stronghold is echo, meaning, "to hold fast."  A derivation of that same word, echuroma means "a stronghold, fortification, fortress." Bible teacher, Beth Moore, describes them as "anything in our lives that we hold on to that ends up holding us." They are formed when thoughts or habit patterns "echo" time and time again in our lives.  They are negative thoughts that are burned into our minds through repetition (such as verbal abuse) or a one-time traumatic incident (such as a rape).  These thought patterns have the potential to grab hold of a mind and rule a life.  Many strongholds are built brick-by-brick for protection, but inevitably they become prisons.  Beth goes on to say, "No matter what the stronghold may be, they all have one thing in common: Satan is fueling the mental tank with deception to keep the stronghold running." 

The word demolish implies a kind of destruction requiring tremendous power - divine power.  One reason many Christians have remained in a yoke of slavery to past sins and lies of the enemy is because they swat at strongholds like they are mosquitoes instead of blasting them with the truth like they are concrete fortresses formed by years of construction.  We cannot destroy demonic strongholds on our own strength even on our best days.  The Holy Spirit can destroy strongholds with His power even on our worst days. The power of the Holy Spirit is the Greek word dunamous, which is where we get the word dynamite.  "The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world.  On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds."

The verse goes on to describe another area that needs to be destroyed. "We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God."   I don't know about you, but on a few occasions, (OK, on more occasions than I can count) I have argued with God and against the knowledge of God.  Guess what?  God always wins.

The Greek word for arguments is logismos, meaning "a reckoning, calculation, consideration, reflection."  A calculated thought might be a conclusion that you are a failure, after you have failed at something.  That seems logical.  It all adds up.  Upon reflection, it seems highly probable.  However, that's not what the Truth says.  It is against the knowledge of God.  Regardless of your calculations, God says you are a saint who has been blessed with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places, a child of God, and a co-heir with Christ.  You are not a failure and you need to reject the lie.  When the thought comes into your head, simply say, "I reject that thought.  It is a lie of the enemy and not the truth of God. I failed in this instance, but I am not a failure."

So far we've looked at three steps to taking every thought captive:

Step One:  Recognize the Enemy's True Identity

Step Two: Recognize Satan's Lies

Step Three:  Reject the Lies

Join me tomorrow as we look at the final step to taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ. 

Let's Pray
Dear Father, I'll admit that I toy with thoughts that I know are not true.  I feel sorry for myself, entertain thoughts of rejection, and sometimes even feel like nobody loves me.  Those are lies.  All of them.  Right now, I commit to reject the lies of the enemy as soon as the thought comes into my head.  Thank You for the truth that sets us free from feelings of inferiority, insecurity, and inadequacy.  I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength - and that's the truth.

In Jesus' Name,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
I want you to write down five lies that you tend to believe about yourself and leave some space between them.  Now, I want you to write down a truth from the Bible for each one that lets you know it is a lie.

Let me get you started.

Lie: I can't do anything right.

Truth: I can do everything through him who gives me strength. Philippians 4:13

Lie: Nobody ever prays for me.

Truth: Jesus said: "I pray for ...those you have given me. John 17:9

More From The Girlfriends
This series of lessons is taken from Sharon's book, Becoming Spiritually Beautiful - Seeing Yourself from God's Perspective. However, the lessons had such a great impact, she wrote a follow-up book, I'm Not Good Enough...and Other Lies Women Tell Themselves that goes into much greater detail on how to overcome the lies of the enemy.  If this is an area where you struggle, I'm Not Good Enough is the book for you. You can find both on her website.   This resource will help you change that stinkin' thinkin' and see yourself as God sees you!

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]

April 7, 2010 

Taking Every Thought Captive 

Part 5 

Sharon Jaynes

Today's Truth
"We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ" (2 Corinthians 10:5 NIV).

Friend To Friend
Over the past few days, we have been looking at steps to taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ.  Let's review:

Step One: Recognize the Enemy's True Identity

Step Two: Recognize Satan's Lies

Step Three: Reject the Lies

And today we are looking at step four: Replacing the lies with the Truth

Before we come to Christ, we learn ways to get our basic needs of significance, safety and security, and belonging met on our own terms. We are programmed by the world, the flesh, and the devil to live independent of God.  When we become a Christian, that software is still on our hard drive.  Satan has read the files and he tries his best to keep those corrupt files intact. It takes time to reprogram our minds with the truth of God, but He is our technician.  He is very patient and will walk us through the process step-by-step to guide us into all truth (John 16:13).  Our part is to choose to press the keys:  recognize the corrupt programs, delete the corrupt programs, and install the incorruptible truth.   We renew our minds by constantly choosing to believe the truth.

Just as Satan tries to deceive you and me, he tried to deceive God's Son with lies and cause Him to forfeit His inheritance and abandon His mission.  Jesus was never programmed with lies as we were, but Satan did tempt him with lies.

After Jesus had been fasting for forty days in the desert, Satan came to Him with three temptations.  Just like he tempted Eve, he tempted Jesus in the three key areas of His life: his body, soul, and spirit. How did Jesus fight the enemy?  He fought him with Scripture - He conquered him with the truth.  Each time Satan put an evil thought before Him, Jesus said, "It is written...."

It is not a sin to be tempted.  The Bible says that Jesus was tempted and yet did not sin.  It becomes a sin when we act on the thought, accept it as truth, linger over it, or replay it repeatedly.  As Martin Luther once said, "You can't keep the birds from flying over your head, but you can keep them from building a nest in your hat."

Let me give you this example.  I believe that Satan sends us e-mails all day long (evil-mails).  When we get a seductive e-mail on the screen of our computer, is it our fault?  If we get an unsolicited e-mail that reads, "click here for a hot time tonight" is that our doing? Not unless you've placed yourself on some bad e-mail lists.  When does that e-mail become a sin?  The moment we click on it and accept the invitation.  Likewise, when the enemy tempts us to believe a lie, the temptation is not sin. It becomes sin when we accept the thought as our own and act on it.  Our responsibility is to delete the lie and replace it with the truth.  When it comes to defeating Satan, Dr. Neil Anderson said it well:  "You don't have to out shout him or outmuscle him to be free of his influence.  You just have to out truth him."

Below are some common lies of the enemy and the truth that "demolishes" them.  I have listed each lie in the first person, "I," because that is how the enemy puts them into our thoughts.

Satan's Lie Nobody loves me.                                                                       

God's Truth  For God so loved the world, He gave His only Son. (John 3:16)

Satan's Lie  I'm not able to do this job.  I don't have the right gifts.

God's Truth Not that we are competent in ourselves to claim anything for ourselves, but our competence comes from God.  He has made us competent as ministers of a new covenant. (2 Corinthians 3:5)

Satan's Lie  God couldn't love me.

God's Truth  How great is the love the Father has lavished on us that we should be called children of God! (I John 3:1)

Satan's Lie I'm so worried about this.           

God's Truth Do not be anxious about anything but in everything by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.  And the peace of God which transcends all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:6)

Satan's Lie  I'm a loser.                                 

God's Truth I have been blessed in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ. (Ephesians 1:3)

Satan's Lie  I can't help myself.                     

God's Truth  Resist the devil and he will flee from you. (James 4:7)

In order to win the battle for our minds, we must refuse the lie and replace it with the truth.  After all, which is true?

Jesus said, "I am the way and the truth and the life" (John 14:6).  He is truth.  The more we think on truth, the more our minds will be conformed to the image of Christ, and the quicker we will recognize the lies and replace them with truth.

Girlfriend, I am proud of you for sticking with me these five days. The Bible says, "Wisdom brightens a face and changes its hard appearance" (Ecclesiastes 8:1 NIV).  I would say you are absolutely glowing. Stunning.

Let's Pray
Dear Heavenly Father, I thank You that You will never call us to do something that You will not empower us to do. You tell us to take every thought captive, so with the power of the Holy Spirit working in us, we can.  Thank You for making us into new creations - holy, chosen, and dearly loved.

In Jesus' Name,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
It seems the key to this entire process of taking every thought captive is knowing and applying the truth!  So let's commit 2 Corinthians 10:5 to memory.  In this series, I quoted from several different translations.  Chose the translation that is most comfortable for you and write this verse on a card.  Put it on your dashboard, by your kitchen sink, or on your bathroom mirror.

See if you can name the four steps to taking every thought captive without looking. 

Had to look?  That's OK. You might want to write them on the back of the index card on which you wrote 2 Corinthians 10:5.

More From The Girlfriends
Whew!  It takes a lot of thinking to think about our thinking.  Now that was confusing!  If getting a grip on your thoughts and emotions is something that you would like to read more about, see Sharon's book ,I'm Not Good Enough..and Other Lies Women Tell Themselves.  You'll learn how to apply God's transforming power to your life, and  you'll find a handy reference guide of 75 common lies women believe and the truths with which to replace them.

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]

April 8, 2010 

I'm Exhausted! 

Gwen Smith

Today's Truth
"Keep company with me and you'll learn to live freely and lightly" (Matthew 11:30, MSG).

Friend To Friend 
I had just arrived at my favorite coffee shop. As I opened the door, the smell of freshly brewed java greeted me and filled my creative mind with possibilities. I was eager to get to work and excited that my warm coffee-friend would come along with me for the ride. As I grabbed a cup from the counter and paid, I asked the barista how she was doing.

"I'm exhausted!" She lamented with a sigh.

I knew exactly how she felt. I feel that way a lot! I am famous for trying to put ten pounds of living into a five-pound sack. She was tired. Stressed. Drained. Over-committed. Under-rested. Exhausted. Yep! I totally know that feeling.

Have you been there? Ha! Of course, you have! It is so easy for us to rush into our days and get busy with life stuff, attempting to accomplish mountains of tasks and deal with emotional situations in our own strength. We are constantly pulled in a million directions. Trying to juggle the slow, steady drain of complicated relationships, crazy schedules, and weighty challenges.

The truth is our exhaustion problems cannot be solved without God. I find it comforting to realize that we are not the first people to struggle with feelings like this. All throughout Scripture people got worn-out and lamented about their tired souls. David wrote countless Psalms about being weary, and Elijah was so exhausted at one point that he sank into a deep depression and lost his God-courage. Jesus spoke to a crowd of people in Galilee one day about the only sure-fire solution to our exhaustion problem.

He said, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light" (Matthew 11:28-30, NIV).

The MESSAGE version of those same verses reads this way, "Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you will recover your life. I will 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 will not lay anything heavy or ill fitting on you. Keep Company with me and you'll learn to live freely and lightly" (Matthew 11:28-30, MSG).

When you keep company with Jesus, you will learn to live freely and lightly. Does that sound appealing to you? If so, then it is time to respond to His invitation. Whether you have thirty seconds or thirty minutes, pause now to turn to Him. Grab your prayer journal if you have one. Center your heart on His splendor and approach Him with reverence. While you are in His presence, empty your exhaustion out before Him. Tell Him the concerns on your heart and take a soul rest.

That day in the coffee shop, as I filled my cup I gave my exhausted, coffee-serving friend a smile and a knowing look. Then I spoke a word of hope to her heart and encouraged her to refuel in the secret place, the presence of God. She smiled back and thanked me for the reminder. She loves the Lord, but - like all of us - she sometimes forgets that soul rest is available.

Keep company with Him today. All day. When you do, you will experience His strength for each moment and His hope in each challenge. Live freely and lightly in Jesus, girlfriend.

Let's Pray
Heavenly Father, You are mighty to save and all I need. Thank You for reminding me that I can always come to You and trade in my exhaustion for Your rejuvenation. I come to You today and ask that You would restore rest to my soul.

In Jesus' name,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
Read and meditate on the words that Jesus spoke to His apostles when they were tired and weary, "Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest" (Mark 6:31b, NIV).

RESPOND: Allow the music and lyrics of SACRED PLACE to lead you into His presence right now. Turn up the speakers on your computer and CLICK HERE to listen to the song as you center your heart, mind, and soul on the Holy One.

More From The Girlfriends
I know some of you are carrying heavy loads of exhaustion. Free living might sound like a promise for other people, but not for you. Perhaps you are dealing with a constant strain in your life. God sees you, friend. He knows your struggles. He is able to work out the details. Trust Him for strength and rest - whether He delivers you from the exhaustion or through it.

NEED HEALING for some heart wounds? Got a friend going through a difficult time? Gwen's book, Broken Into Beautiful, takes the reader by the hand and shows her how God delights to transform lives. To order the book, please CLICK HERE. 

LOVE TO WORSHIP? Download Gwen's live worship CD, Unsearchable, from iTunes, or order the CD from the store on her website.

Gwen Smith is a speaker, worship artist, songwriter, and author. For more information about her ministry or schedule, visit her website at www.GwenSmith.net.

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]

April 9, 2010 

Love Shows Up 

Mary Southerland

Today's Truth
Galatians 5:13 "You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature; rather, serve one another in love."

Friend To Friend
The consensus is in. I am a great nurse but a lousy patient. I could not believe my ears when the surgeon finished her post-operative examination and said, "Everything is fine. You will be able to resume normal activities in three or four weeks. Until then, get plenty of rest and make sure that you do not lift anything heavy. "Surely I had heard her wrong. The surgery she had done the day before was not what I would call "serious." It was simply a new surgery to correct and repair an old surgery. It was no big deal. I was confident in the Southerland stamina but had generously given myself one whole week to recuperate. Maybe her problem was that she did not understand the meaning of "normal" in my life.

I normally teach a weekly Bible study at our church where my husband is the lead teaching pastor. As the women's ministry director, I normally oversee all of our women's events and was in the final stages of getting ready for our annual women's retreat we had been planning for months and was just ten days away. Our daughter and her eight-month-old son live with us while she is attending school and I am normally the main babysitter for this little hunk of joy - all 21 pounds of him - while mommy goes to class. When I asked the doctor what she meant by "heavy," she stopped the now irritating scribbling on the clipboard she held in her hand, peered over her glasses and firmly responded with "I mean you cannot lift anything over two or three pounds." I did not like her attitude. "What do you mean when you said I have to get a lot of rest?" I pressed. Again, her steely eyes met mine as she responded, "I mean rest. Sleep, read, and take it easy. Your body needs time to heal." No matter what question I asked or how I asked it, her answer did not change.

Have you ever seen your life flash before your eyes? I began to think about the different areas of my life and the responsibilities each one held. When the surgeon left the room, I sat on that cold hard examination table and wondered how I was going to handle her ridiculous mandate and more importantly, how could the people in my world possibly survive without me for four whole weeks? I could see our daughter being forced to drop out of school, the retreat being cancelled and my Bible study going down the tube while I was recovering. My family would starve to death, walk around in filthy clothes and live in a dirty house because I had to rest. Nonsense! I am tough. I can handle it. Over the next few weeks, I was quickly and brutally reminded just how frail the human body can be. I was also reminded of my struggle with pride and with asking for and accepting help from other people. I am the one who is supposed to be doing the helping.

It has been several weeks since the surgery, and I am still recovering and still have to spend a lot of time resting. Danna aced her final, guest speakers have blessed the women attending my Bible study and the retreat for over 250 women was awesome and came off without a hitch. People in our church have brought meals, kept our grandson, and even volunteered to do our laundry. My sister has called almost every day to check on me and make sure I am being "good." My sweet husband has waited on me with such kindness and tenderness. Our daughter has cleaned house, done the laundry, run errands and taken time each day to make me laugh. Our son and daughter-in-law have sent care packages filled with my favorite candles, chocolate, pictures of our grandchildren and the beautiful cards they made so Mimi can "get well faster." Through it all, I have been reminded of several important truths:

I am a frail human who is indispensable to no one but God.

God created us to need each other.

God is delighted when we serve one another.

God is not pleased when we allow pride and self-sufficiency to prevent us from accepting help when we really need it.

Love is not a feeling.

Love is a verb.

One of the most special Christmas gifts we received this year was a beautifully framed etching that simply said, "Love shows up." Those three words have taken on a completely new meaning in my life over the past few weeks. I encourage you to join me in a new commitment to show God's love by reaching out to someone in need. And if you are the one in need, lay down your pride and let God love you through the service of others.

Let's Pray
Father, how I love You! Thank You for reminding me of Your faithfulness to meet every need in my life. I confess my pride and choose against my human tendency to think that I am self-sufficient. Help me learn how to share Your love with others in need but also help me learn how to receive Your love with a gracious and humble heart.

In Jesus' name,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
Ask God to help you become more aware of opportunities to share His love with others.

Examine your heart. Do you have the attitude of a servant? Are you willing to serve others?

Are you willing to be served by others?

Is there any pride in your heart that would keep you from serving others or from being served? Are you willing to confess that pride and cultivate a humble attitude?

More From The Girlfriends
I am a slow learner when it comes to asking for and allowing others to help me. I was raised to be independent and strong - both of which are good things - except when they become roadblocks to God's work in my life. Can you relate? Today, I am celebrating the fact that I am a member of the family of God. I am often needy but never alone. Girlfriend, we say the same thing to you as a Girlfriend in God. We love you.  We want to serve you and we are here for you.  Blessings!

FREE MP3.  Do not let the enemy or your own heart tell you that you are not good enough to be used by God to serve others. Check out this MP3, "Can God Really Use Me?" Download, save and enjoy.

Looking for an online Bible Study? Join women from across the world in studying the Bible by enrolling in my weekly online Bible Study, Light for the Journey.

E-Book Bible Studies are available in my online store. Each study is practical, Bible-based and perfect for individual or small group study.  Leader's guide included.

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]

April 12, 2010 

Does He See Beautiful? 

Gwen Smith

Today's Truth
"Jesus said to them, "Why are you bothering this woman? She has done a beautiful thing to me" (Matthew 26:10, NIV).

Friend To Friend 
I am completely crazy about cool jewelry, so when the Lord prompted me to take off my favorite necklace and give it to the woman who had just admired it, I tried to pretend I did not hear Him.

"It's mine, God!" I reasoned. "It isn't replaceable! Why would ask me to do that?"

My self-plan did not like the God-plan laid out before me. God was asking me to give up something that meant a lot to me so that another woman could be blessed. It seemed crazy. Unnecessary. However, in this instance, through the strength of Christ, I chose to obey even though I did not want too. It hurt. It cost me big. I felt the loss.

God softened my childish heart, however, as the woman wept at the Lord's blessing. As I silently confessed my selfish thoughts, God poured a deep joy into my soul. He showed me that my sacrifice was an act of worship to Him. Blessings boomeranged right back to my heart as I humbly thanked Him for allowing me to participate in His moment with her. It was a beautiful thing.

There are just times when I would rather give gifts that don't cost me too much. That is probably something that only I wrestle with, right? (Wink! Wink!) It is hard to be open handed with things that we hold dear, isn't it? Some of us struggle with an unwillingness to give away material things or money. Others hold tightly to our schedules, our affections, or our availability while still others try to keep a tight reign on our children, grandchildren, spouses, parents or other people in our life.

God must have known we would struggle with this because His Word addresses this issue and shows us a beautiful picture of surrendered devotion in Mary of Bethany. The offering she poured out onto the feet of Jesus was worth a year's wages. She lavished her costly perfume, her attention, her affection, her time and her worship on Jesus because she loved Him. He was her Savior. Her Friend. Her Hope. The Healer who had miraculously brought life back to the stench of death that had fallen on her brother Lazarus.

"While Jesus was in Bethany in the home of a man known as Simon the Leper, a woman came to him with an alabaster jar of very expensive perfume, which she poured on his head as he was reclining at the table. 

When the disciples saw this, they were indignant. "Why this waste?" they asked. "This perfume could have been sold at a high price and the money given to the poor." 

Aware of this, Jesus said to them, "Why are you bothering this woman? She has done a beautiful thing to me. The poor you will always have with you, but you will not always have me. When she poured this perfume on my body, she did it to prepare me for burial. I tell you the truth, wherever this gospel is preached throughout the world, what she has done will also be told, in memory of her." (Matthew 26:6-13, NIV) 

The Message version says it this way: "She has just done something wonderfully significant for me." (Matthew 26:10)

When I read this story, I am compelled to wonder if God sees a beautiful thing when He looks at my life.  Does He see me do anything that is wonderfully significant for Him?

What do you think He sees when he looks at your life?

Does He see a beautiful thing?

The more time we spend with God and reading His Word, the more beautiful our life will become. Therefore, here is my challenge to you: I challenge you to commit 15 minutes a day to God for one week. Just one week. Can you do that? Read a chapter in the Psalms and spend time in prayer each day for seven days. Make the sacrifice. If you already have a disciplined quiet time, I challenge you to add 15 minutes of prayer time. It will be a beautiful thing to both you and God.

When we open the hands of our lives to His presence, to His service and for His glory, rest assured God will see a beautiful thing. When we obey His promptings and listen to His voice that whispers to our soul, He will fill us to overflowing with joy, peace, satisfaction and His beauty.

Let's Pray
Dear God, You are worth far more praise than I could ever give. Please help me to rest in Your presence and trust in Your plan. Fill me with Your perspective until I joyfully lay down my will for Yours. Lord, when You look at my life, I want You to see beautiful.

In Jesus' Name,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
Consider what you are holding back from God. Spend time in prayer returning it to Him

Read Psalm 96. Read through it a second time, but pause after each verse with a personal and prayerful response to God. Journal any verses that you want to remember.

More From The Girlfriends
Every beautiful act of worship begins with the heart. If you would like to learn more about how your brokenness can be transformed into a picture of God's beauty, order Gwen's book Broken Into Beautiful. This resource will help you experience the power of hope, healing and restoration!

LIKE SAVING MONEY? Check out the SPECIALS on Gwen's website!  When you order more than one CD, you save!

GOT FACEBOOK? Visit Gwen's FACEBOOK PAGE - leave a message on her wall - listen to a few songs - share the page with your FB friends! (She loves that!)

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]

April 13, 2010 

Under New Management 

Mary Southerland

Today's Truth
Philippians 4:9-13 (NIV) "For I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.  I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength."

Friend To Friend
The story is told of a farmer who lived on the same farm all of his life. It was a good farm but with the passing years, the farmer began to tire of it and long for something better. Every day, he found something else wrong with the farm and finally decided to sell. He hired a realtor who made up a sales flier, emphasizing the good points of the farm including an ideal location, modern equipment and healthy stock on acres of fertile ground. Before she ran the ad, she called the farmer and read it to him for his approval. The farmer listened carefully as she read and when she finished he cried out, "Hold everything!  I have changed my mind. I am not going to sell.  I have been looking for a place like that all of my life!" 

Like the farmer, you and I are constantly looking for something "better." Deep in our heart, we long for something more. As followers of Jesus Christ, we should be living illustrations of peace and contentment but we often struggle to do so. What is the secret of contentment?

To find the secret of contentment we turn to the life of Paul, a disciple of Christ who had every reason to be discontented. He wrote the book of Philippians from prison where he was awaiting trial and possible execution. He was all alone, facing great persecution as a believer. Paul was no stranger to persecution; he had been beaten, stoned, shipwrecked and ridiculed because of His vocal faith in God. As he approached the end of his life, his health was bad and he was almost blind. Yet, through the darkness of his pain, he joyfully exclaimed, "I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am."  Paul's perspective is amazing and worthy of scrutiny.

The first step toward a contented life is to choose obedience. Paul tells us in verse nine that in order to experience peace and contentment we must "put into practice" the precepts of God.  When one company takes over another company there is sometimes a sign displayed that reads, "Under New Management."  When we invite Christ to take over our life, we place ourselves under new management - the management of Jesus Christ.  He then directs our life from a heart of love - if we allow Him to.  When God takes over, He puts into place His Word and His plan for our life. Paul assures us that it is the best plan - the highest plan and the only plan that will produce a contented life.

Our choice to obey that plan will guarantee contentment because when we choose obedience, we are stepping under the umbrella of God's protection. The success of the plan depends upon Him and our obedience sets Him free to work, encouraging peace in our heart and bringing the contentment we seek. 

Disobedience is the enemy of contentment. Contentment and disobedience cannot exist together in the same heart. Vance Havner says, "You cannot break the laws of God---you break yourself against them." It is not enough to know the truth. Jesus is not pleased with or impressed by how much we know. He is pleased with how much we do. Choose to obey God and you will find contentment.

Let's Pray
Lord, I long to know You more and experience the contentment that only an intimate relationship with You can bring.  Thank You for loving me and for choosing me to be Your own.  I now place myself under Your management and control.

In Jesus' name,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
Take some time to look back over your life, recognizing that His plan for you is the only one that will satisfy your soul and bring you contentment. Choose to follow that plan, seeking Him every step of the way. Start by asking the following questions:

What are the areas of discontentment in my life?

What are the areas of disobedience in my life?

What hindrances need to be removed in order for me to be obedient to God?

What do I already know to be part of His plan for me?

What steps must I take in order to follow that plan?

More From The Girlfriends
Notice that Paul said he had "learned" to be content. Paul made the consistent choice to find contentment in Jesus Christ. He trained his heart and mind to seek God and in doing so, found peace and contentment. If Paul can learn to be contented, so can we.


Looking for an online Bible Study? Join women from across the world in studying the Bible by enrolling in my weekly online Bible Study, Light for the Journey.  The current series is "The Power of Forgiveness."

E-Book Bible Studies are available in my online store. Each study is practical, Bible-based and perfect for individual or small group study. Leader's guide included.

Need help serving the difficult people in your life? Drop by our online store and check out my book, Sandpaper People, for practical steps you can take to deal with those tough relationships. Also available in CD and MP3.

I would love to connect with you on FaceBook! Let's talk!

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]

April 14, 2010 

What's In Your Trash Basket? 

Gwen Smith

Today's Truth
"Jesus straightened up and asked her, "Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?" (John 8:10 NIV).

Friend To Friend
A four-year-old girl was overheard reciting the Lord's Prayer, "and forgive us our trash baskets, as we forgive those who pass trash against us." When I first heard that story, I smiled. Then I thought of a conversation I had recently had with a girlfriend.

She is a Christian friend. Though she has "emptied her trash basket" of sin before the Lord in sincere repentance, she has not emptied the trash basket of self-condemnation. Not completely. She will not allow it. She struggles deeply to let go of mistakes she made in her past. She holds the trash basket lid on tightly. To be free of that waste does not seem fair in her mind.

She is haunted by shame. Haunted by sins that are no longer remembered by God. Haunted by sins that have been cast as far as the east is from the west.

"For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his love for those who fear him; as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us. As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear him." (Psalm 103:11-13)

These memories don't live in her past. They live in her now. They haunt her regularly like a spine-chilling horror film monster. And as much as she would like to move forward in forgiveness, she just can't find the courage to scare the monster away.

In the New Testament book of John, chapter 8, we meet a woman caught in the act of adultery. The legalistic teachers of the law and the Pharisees brought her before Jesus. They publicly humiliated her in front of the entire town's people, saying to Jesus, "Teacher, this woman was caught in the act of adultery. In the Law, Moses commanded us to stone such women. Now what do you say?" (John 8:4-5)

Jesus bent down and wrote on the ground with his finger as they continued to question him. Finally, "He straightened up and said to them, '"If any one of you is without sin, let him be the first to throw a stone at her.'" Again he stooped down and wrote on the ground" (John 8:7-8).

The crowd eventually thinned to nothing. The older, wiser men cleared first. Then the younger ones trickled away. When the adulterous woman and Jesus were the only ones remaining, "Jesus straightened up and asked her, "Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?"

"No one, sir," she said.

"Then neither do I condemn you," Jesus declared. "Go now and leave your life of sin" (John 8:10-12).

My sister, do you see that our holy Lord delights to show us mercy? He does not condemn us as we deserve. Time and time again, Scripture reveals merciful pictures of forgiveness. The woman in this story was guilty when she was brought to face Jesus, but as she left His presence, her guilt was forgiven. Her trash basket was empty.

When we turn to face Jesus with repentant hearts, our guilt is forgiven as well.

TOSS YOUR TRASH

This account of the adulterous woman teaches us about forgiveness and it teaches us a valuable lesson about judging and condemning others. But what does this lesson teach us about judging ourselves? My friend that I spoke of earlier carried around a trash basket filled with junk she threw in herself. Sure, it was accompanied by trash from other people as well, but the lingering condemnation came from memories of decisions she had made, things she had done, places she had been, and brokenness she has experienced because of her own choices. In her heart, she accepts the forgiveness of Jesus, but she can't bear to forgive herself. So many women won't forgive themselves.

I have been that woman.

I know that woman.

I know that self-loathing. I have lived it. I'm not going to sit here and try to tell you that forgiving yourself is easy. It is hard—and, in many ways, it should be. However, I can testify that it wasn't until I prayerfully allowed the stubborn, strong, and unconditional love of Jesus to pry my fingers off the lid of my trash basket and empty the condemning contents, that I experienced true freedom and complete forgiveness.

Is there something that you have not been able to forgive yourself for?

My friend, we need to stop beating ourselves up for sins of our past. We need to stop allowing guilt and shame to chain us to unproductive living. Jesus humbled Himself by becoming human, endured an excruciating death, and then defied the grave in His resurrection so that we could be restored to a place of complete healing. Complete healing.

Second Corinthians 5:21 states that "God made Him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God." If you are in Christ, the Bible says that your guilt was paid for on the cross of Calvary. Jesus carried the sins of the world on His shoulders so that you would not have to carry them on yours.

If you are holding on to un-confessed sin, the time has come for you to release your grip. God's Word promises that, "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness" (1 John 1:9).

ACCEPT HIS FORGIVENESS.

None of us is perfect, just perfectly forgiven. Take your hand off the lid and allow the Lord to empty your trash basket of every condemning voice - once and for all. Embrace the freedom that Jesus intends for you to live in.

Let's Pray
Holy Father, Your mercy defies logic.  I don't deserve it, and I don't understand how You could possibly forgive me for all that I have done.  Please take my trash basket and empty it.  Forgive me today and help me to forgive myself, and others, so I can live freely in Your amazing grace.

In Jesus' Name,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn

Recite, write, and memorize these verses:  "Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death" (Romans 8:1-2).

Prayerfully forward this email to a friend (or friends) who might need to read this message.

Journal what God is teaching you. Praise Him for revealing truth to your heart and for His matchless grace.

More from the Girlfriends

Every step of forgiveness begins with the heart of God. If you would like to learn more about how your brokenness can be transformed into a picture of God's beauty, order Gwen's book Broken Into Beautiful. This resource will help you experience the power of hope, healing and restoration!

Today's devotion is an excerpt from Gwen's book Broken Into Beautiful, and it is a core message of faith. I know that many of you might have had to read it through tear-filled eyes. I pray that you will allow God to replace your tears of pain with tears of joy.  There is a song that I would love for you to hear right now (make sure your volume is turned up).  CLICK HERE TO LISTEN.

Gwen Smith is a worship artist, songwriter, speaker, and author. For more information, visit her website at www.GwenSmith.net.

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]

April 15, 2010 

Making Wise Investments 

Mary Southerland

Today's Truth
Ecclesiastes 11:1 (NCV) "Invest what you have, because after a while you will get a return."

Friend To Friend
The investments that we make in life determine the level of contentment that we gain from life. We come into this world as self-centered beings, concerned solely with our needs and wants. Only a personal relationship with Christ can truly change that egotistical human bent. Even unbelievers attempting to soothe a troubled and unfulfilled heart invest their time and resources in charities or service organizations.  They are trying to gain life from dead things. It simply is not possible. Unfortunately, many followers of Jesus Christ have not yet learned the spiritual principle that you cannot out give God.  We falsely assume ownership of the gifts God has given us to manage on His behalf. 

The story is told of a little boy who lived in a ghetto. Because of his strong belief in God, his friends constantly teased the little boy. They taunted him saying, "If God loves you, why doesn't he take care of you? Why doesn't God tell someone to bring you shoes or send someone with a warm coat?  Where is the good food you've been asking God for?" The little boy faced his critics, thought for a moment and with tears in his eyes, softly said, "I guess He does tell somebody but somebody forgets."

We forget. We forget the wonder of what Jesus Christ did for us on the cross. He served and calls us to serve. He gave and calls us to give. And because of that precious gift, that eternal investment of love made by Jesus Christ on the Cross of Calvary, you and I are redeemed from Hell itself. In response to God's love, the apostle Paul gave his life in service to God, finding his greatest joy in simply doing what God told him to do. Before he encountered Christ, Paul had been a man of great influence and power but as a follower of Jesus Christ the highest title he ever gave himself was "servant." 

It is important to note that Paul was first a servant - then an apostle set apart for the gospel. The people he served became his family and in turn served him by praying for him, encouraging him and meeting his physical needs. Service is not an option for the Christian. It is a command - a holy calling and the ultimate joy. The most contented people I know are the ones who serve the most. They have found an outlet for giving, have discovered their God given gifts and are using them to serve God. It is a paradox in the Christian life that the more we give, the more we receive and the greater our level of contentment. It is when we turn inward and become focused on self that discontentment creeps in and takes up residence.

The Sea of Galilee and the Dead Sea are made of the same water that flows from Mt. Hermon. The Sea of Galilee is a beautiful place, lush and green, because it has an outlet. It gathers in its riches then pours them out again to fertilize the Jordan plain. It gives. On the other hand, the Dead Sea, with the same water creates destruction because it has no outlet. It keeps. 

The highest purpose in life is to be used by God to influence the lives of others. We often think that God reserves service for those called "ministers." Every follower of God is called to be a minister. Your mission field is your home - your office - your neighborhood - your world. If you want to discover the secret of contentment, look for opportunities to make investments in others by giving yourself away. Every act of service is an investment in eternity.

Let's Pray
Lord, I recognize You as my source of contentment. I love You and want to serve You.  Today, I will look for opportunities to make eternal investments. Thank You for loving me and for giving me the privilege of serving You. 

In Jesus' name,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
It is so easy to be wrapped up in our own needs to the point that we fail to see the needs of others. I want my life to count and the best way to do that is to invest my time, energy, and talents ... everything I am and have ...in serving God by serving others. Let me challenge you to join me in making a new commitment to serve.

Who has made eternal investments in my life?

What is my perception of service?

What are my spiritual gifts?

How can I use those gifts?

What are the benefits of serving God and others?

Can you make the following commitment?

I need to understand that contentment is found when I invest myself in others. There are "mission fields" in my life where I can serve Him by serving others. I choose today to become a "giver" instead of a "keeper."

More From The Girlfriends
Do not let the enemy or your own heart tell you that you are not good enough to be used by God to serve others. Just make yourself available to God and see what He does in you and through you. 

Looking for an online Bible Study? Join women from across the world in studying the Bible by enrolling in my weekly online Bible Study, Light for the Journey.  The current series of lessons is "The Power of Forgiveness." 

E-Book Bible Studies are available in my online store. Each study is practical, Bible-based and perfect for individual or small group study. Leader's guide included.

Need help serving the difficult people in your life? Drop by our online store and check out my book, Sandpaper People, for practical steps you can take to deal with those tough relationships. Also available in CD and MP3.

I would love to connect with you on FaceBook! Let's talk!

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