Girlfriends in God

[Judy Harder]

July 26, 2010 

Faith Believes God 

Part 1 

Mary Southerland

Today's Truth
Isaiah 7:9 (NCV) "If your faith is not strong, you will not have strength enough to last."

Friend To Friend
Our life may be deemed successful and powerful by man's standards, but when it comes to faith, only an eternal perspective and a holy standard will do.  Authentic faith produces authentic power.  Faith is active - never idle.  We talk a lot about faith, but the real question is - do we live it? 

In his book, "Holy Sweat," Tim Hansel shares the following story of faith.  "One day, while my son Zac and I were out in the country, climbing around in some cliffs, I heard a voice from above me yell, "Hey Dad!  Catch me!"  I turned around to see Zac joyfully jumping off of a rock straight at me.  He had jumped and then yelled, "Hey Dad!"  I became an instant circus act, catching him.  We both fell to the ground.  For a moment after I caught him, I could hardly talk.  When I found my voice again, I gasped in exasperation: "Zac!  Can you give me one good reason why you did that?"  He responded with remarkable calmness: "Sure - because you're my Dad."  His whole assurance was based on the fact that his father was trustworthy.  He could live life to the hilt because I could be trusted."

The kingdom of God is not just a topic for discussion.  The faith through which we live should be undeniable proof that God is alive and well.  Faith believes God.

Faith believes God is who He says He is.

Matthew 14:18-21 (NCV) "Jesus said, "Bring the bread and the fish to me."  He then told the people to sit down on the grass. He took the five loaves and the two fish and, looking to heaven, He thanked God for the food.  Jesus divided the bread and gave it to His followers, who gave it to the people.  All the people ate and were satisfied.  Then the followers filled twelve baskets with the leftover pieces of food.  There were about five thousand men there who ate, not counting women and children." 

Weak faith is not quite sure that God really is God.  Did Peter believe that Jesus was who He said He was?  It is interesting to notice where Peter was before he stepped into that boat.  He was with Jesus, in the middle of a miracle.  Jesus had just learned that His disciple and friend, John the Baptist, had been murdered by King Herod.  Needing time alone, Jesus "left in a boat and went to a lonely place by himself" but when He arrived, crowds of people had gathered to meet Him.  Setting aside his own needs, Jesus had compassion on the people and healed those who were sick.

When evening came, the disciples, realizing they were out in the middle of nowhere, with no restaurants, no homes and no food, urged Jesus to send the people home to eat.  Jesus had another plan in mind.  He told the disciples to feed the people.  Their response was faithless.  "But we have only five loaves of bread and two fish." 

At this point, it is important to realize that these very same men had personally witnessed Jesus perform miracle after miracle.  He had healed the sick, made the blind to see, and the lame to walk.  He had calmed a storm, raised a young girl from the dead, convinced demon-possessed pigs they could fly and then empowered the disciples to perform the same kind of miracles He had performed before their very eyes.  Jesus had healed Peter's mother-in-law, and still, the disciples didn't fully believe that God really was God. 

Jesus took the five loaves of bread and two fish, blessed them and turned the meager snack into a feast for thousands - with baskets of food left over.  Scripture tells us that Jesus then told the disciples to get in the boat while He dismissed the lingering crowd and went to the mountainside to pray.  I believe He prayed, not only in response to John's death, but for His disciples.

When the boat was about four miles from shore, a storm sprang up.  Even though these men were experienced fishermen and no strangers to storms, a small boat on stormy seas is terrifying and dangerous.  I imagine the disciples were more afraid of the unknown than they were of the storm.  Yes, Jesus sent them into the storm.  Why?  Perhaps He was setting the stage for another faith-building miracle, proving once again, that God really is who He says He is.  Don't miss tomorrow's devotion!

Let's Pray
Father, forgive me when I doubt You.  I pray Your peace will replace fear in my heart.  I do not want to believe the lies of the enemy.  Please guard my mind and help me to grow in faith so that others will see You and Your power at work in my life.

In Jesus' name,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
As our faith grows stronger, we begin to see God at work every day.  Think back over the week.  List three circumstances in which you saw God's hand.   

Read and memorize the following verses: 


1 Thessalonians 5:24 "The one who calls you is faithful and he will do it."   

Hebrews 11:6 "And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him."

More From The Girlfriends
The Bible is filled with miracles and stories of men and women who were healed by Jesus - even though their faith was weak.  That encourages me.  However, the faith of others is not my standard.  God sets that benchmark.  Join me in a new commitment to walk in faith.

Need help?  Check out Mary's DVD, Strength for the Storm.

Are you seeking God?  Join other women across the world in Mary's Online Bible Study, Light for the Journey.  When you enroll, you will also have access to all of the 2010 studies. Check it out!

Need hope?  Get Mary's book, Hope in the Midst of Depression for ways to climb out of that pit you are in and learn how you can help someone you love who is dealing with the darkness.   

Need a friend?  Connect with Mary on Facebook or through email.  She loves hearing what God is doing in your life!

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]

July 27, 2010 

Faith Believes God 

Part 2 

Mary Southerland

Today's Truth
Matthew 14:22-24 (NCV) "After he had sent them away, he went by himself up into the hills to pray.  It was late, and Jesus was there alone.  Immediately Jesus told his followers to get into the boat and go ahead of him across the lake.  He stayed there to send the people home.  By this time, the boat was already far away from land.  It was being hit by waves, because the wind was blowing against it."

Friend To Friend
Faith believes that God is able.  You would think, after seeing Jesus in action, that the disciples would not let something like a little storm rock their world.  They should have known with absolute confidence that God was aware of and able to meet their every need.  Faith is a quiet certainty that God keeps His promises.

We do not like to wait on God with "quiet certainty."  We see a need, and instead of seeking God's wisdom and timing, we make a plan we think will meet that need and then, with earthly resources, see that the plan is carried out.  As a result, we often settle for so much less than God had in mind.  "Now glory be to God! By his mighty power at work within us, he is able to accomplish infinitely more than we would ever dare to ask or hope" (Ephesians 3:20 NLT).   

Many children seem to possess the "quiet certainty" that God is able.  The prayer life of a child is often powerful as they dare to pray big prayers, asking God to do the impossible. 

Christmas was just around the corner when we decided to go home for the holidays.  We lived in South Florida at the time and rarely had the opportunity or finances to fly to Texas where Dan and I were both raised and our families still live.  Everyone was excited, especially Jered and Danna.  While they looked forward to seeing all of their aunts, uncles, grandparents and cousins, they were more excited about seeing snow for the first time.  The only problem was that snow was not in the forecast.  In fact, it was supposed to be unusually warm in Texas during our visit.  Danna and Jered would not be deterred.  Nothing we said convinced them that there would be no snow for Christmas.  Every night, they prayed, asking God to let it snow in Texas.  They told all of their friends and anyone who would listen that they were going to Texas for Christmas and that it was going to snow.  I gave up, planning what I would say to our children when it did not snow.  Yes, it would be a hard lesson, but life is filled with hard lessons.     

Our plane landed and we were met with hugs and kisses from my sister and brother-in-law ... but no snow.  It didn't matter. Jered and Danna were confident.  Betty and Carey fielded a barrage of "snow questions" as we claimed our baggage and started home.  Interestingly enough, it did seem to get colder the closer we got to Fort Worth.  In fact, by the time we arrived, it was just plain cold - but certainly not cold enough to snow.

As Dan and I unpacked suitcases, the kids squealed with delight at the Christmas tree, the gifts underneath, the home-made fudge ... and the snow!  "Everybody, come see the snow!" they shouted.  Dan and I looked at each other, smiled and continued unpacking, realizing that it was time for the "sometimes God says no" conversation. 

Suddenly, my usually rational sister appeared in the doorway of our bedroom, eyes big as saucers.  "You are not going to believe this!" she said.  The kids had obviously brainwashed her.  Dan and I played along, following her to the living room where both Jered and Danna were plastered against the sliding glass door, watching giant snowflakes gently fall, their faith on display for all to see. 

Over the years, I have often relived that moment, cherishing the lesson I learned that day.  God is able!  Even when everything seems wrong and everyone shouts "impossible," He is able.  We may not always understand the process, but we can always rest in the fact that God is God, able to meet every need in ways we cannot begin to imagine outside the possibilities of true faith. 

Let's Pray
Father, I want to have the faith of a child.  Help me believe Your truth even when it seems impossible.  Give me new dreams that will honor You and populate heaven.  When doubts come, remind me to never doubt in the darkness what You have said in the light.

In Jesus' name,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
What do you believe God for right now?  What are your God-sized dreams?  Is your life totally explainable in human terms or is God's power the obvious foundation for what is happening?

Read Acts 2:16-18 and prepare your heart for God to do something new.  Be open and willing to obey Him.  Celebrate "the next chapter" of life.

More From The Girlfriends
Just about the time I think my life is in order and the plan is set, God surprises me!  I am walking through one of those "next chapter" seasons of life.  We live in Kansas City where Dan pastors an amazing church.  We have three beautiful grandchildren that have totally stolen my heart.  My list of "things I never thought would happen" grows longer each day.  Whatever, Lord!  Here I am!

Are you seeking God?   Join other women across the world in Mary's Online Bible Study, Light for the Journey.  When you enroll, you also have access to all of the 2010 studies. Check it out!

Need hope?  Get Mary's book, Hope in the Midst of Depression for ways to climb out of that pit you are in.  Learn how you can help someone you love who is dealing with the darkness.   

Need a friend?  Connect with Mary on Facebook or through email.  She loves hearing what God is doing in your life!

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]

July 28, 2010 

Masterpiece by the Bay 

Sharon Jaynes

Today's Truth
"You shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free" (John 8:32 NASB).

Friend To Friend
I grew up on the East Coast and was excited when my husband, son, and I decided to visit San Francisco for our vacation.  My heart's desire and prayer for each day was that we would see God's handiwork, hear His voice, and be reminded of His greatness as we ventured out like three eager explorers to discover new aspects of His creation.

We traveled south along the shoreline and were amazed at the 200 foot regal cliffs that rose from the earth, pushing heavenward with waves splashing at their feet.  Then we traveled north and drank in the beauty of acres and acres of vineyards on grassy rolling hills in the Napa Valley wine country.  We hiked through the majestic Redwood Forest and stood under 1,000 year old, 260 foot giants, dwarfed by their towering branches.

But the most amazing sight was in a place called Alcatraz.  There in the middle of the San Francisco Bay, just a mile and a quarter from the sights and sounds of the beautiful city, sits a rock island, known by some as the "Devil's Island of America."  From 1934-1963, Alcatraz was a prison where the country's most corrupt, incorrigible criminals were housed.  Al Capone and Machine Gun Kelly were just two of its more colorful residents.

There is no road to the prison, so we took a ferry across the bay.  As we taxied up to "The Rock" and stared at the shell of concrete walls, barbed wire, and iron bars, an eerie feeling crept over my body.  Each of us picked up headphones and a cassette recorder and toured the prison while listening to the taped voices of various prisoners recount their days behind bars.  I walked into a cell called "the hole," closed my eyes, and tried to imagine what it would be like in solitary confinement with no light, no sound, and no other voice but my own.  My heart was heavy as I thought about the souls that passed those halls, souls full of darkness, depression, and despair.

But as I rounded the final corner of the tour, I saw an amazing sight - a white haired, eighty-year-old grandfather, with crystal blue laughing eyes and a radiant smile that spread across his wrinkled face.  A line formed as tourists stood waiting for him to sign his name and number on his autobiography, Alcatraz: from the Inside.  This precious man before me was Jim Quillen, ex-prisoner #AZ586.  He had spent ten years of his life, from 1942-1952, behind bars in this prison built to house the most dangerous criminals of his day.  I looked in his eyes as we spoke.  This was not the face of a dangerous man.  What had happened to change his life?

I didn't have to flip many pages in his book to find the answer.  In it he wrote, "It was only through the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ and His intercession, that my life of hopeless incarceration was averted.  His help and forgiveness permitted me to obtain freedom, family, and a useful and productive place in society."  I went back over to Mr. Quillen and sat by his side for a minute or so.  We chatted a bit, and he autographed my copy of his book.  Then God spoke to my heart, "On this vacation, you prayed that you would see My handiwork and be reminded of My greatness.  This man is some of my best work."

On my trip to San Francisco, I was reminded of God's unchanging strength in the majestic rock cliffs of the shoreline and of His nurturing care as the Vinedresser in the hills of the wine country.  I saw a picture of God's protective canopy over His children in the towering Redwoods of the forests.  But when I looked into Jim Quillen's eyes, I saw God's most incredible masterpiece: a changed life. 

Let's Pray
Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for setting me free!  You took my pain and turned it into purpose.  You took my hurt and turned it into hope.  You took my fear and turned it into faith.  Thank you, O Lord, for setting my feet to dancing and my voice to singing Your praise! 

In Jesus' Name,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
What one person that you know has shown the most dramatic change since he or she became a Christian?

What has been the most dramatic change in your life since you gave your life to Christ?

This summer, as you head out on vacation, ask God to reveal Himself to you in a special way.  And when He does, I'd love to hear about it! Visit my blog at www.sharonjaynes.com/blog or my Facebook page at www.facebook.com/sharonjaynes.

More From The Girlfriends
Do you feel totally free or are there parts of your life that are still locked up in a prison of hidden shame?  Sharon's book, Becoming Spiritually Beautiful  is all about being set free from feelings of inferiority, insecurity, and inadequacy by understanding who you are, what you have, and where you are in Christ!  This book is Sharon's life message and will set you free to become all God has created you to be - His beautiful masterpiece.

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]

July 29, 2010 

A Word to the Wise 

Mary Southerland

Today's Truth
"This is what the LORD All-Powerful, the God of Israel, says: Go and tell the men of Judah and the people of Jerusalem: 'Will you not learn a lesson and obey my words,' declares the LORD" Jeremiah 35:13 (NIV).

Friend To Friend
Our grandson, Justus, just celebrated his first birthday.  And we are scrambling to child-proof everything in our home!  I did not realize how many drawers and cabinets we have until Justus decided it was time to explore every single one of them looking for a "ball."  He is just like his mother when she was a toddler - curious and always on the go.   

When Danna was about three years old, she became utterly fascinated with electrical outlets.  One of her favorite activities was working the childproof cover off of an electrical outlet in order to insert toys and various household items in the funny little holes.  Needless to say, I was not thrilled with this game.  Over and over, several times a day, I took her to the outlet and said firmly, "No!  No!  No!  It will hurt you!"  She would look up at me with her beautiful brown eyes and dimpled smile in angelic agreement.  After several trips to the outlet I thought, "She's got it!"  And she did - for two whole days.  While putting groceries away, I heard a piercing scream from the family room.  When I reached Danna, I found a sobbing toddler holding up a tiny burned finger for me to kiss and make better.  Even at her young age, she had acquired a valuable nugget of wisdom and has never again purposely inserted a foreign object into any electrical outlet. 

When we give in to temptation, ignoring God's truth, the result is always sin.  Attached to that sin is the hefty price tag of painful consequences.  Every choice we make - every action that we take has consequences.  We can ignore those consequences or learn from them, taking to heart the message God has assigned to them and gain the wisdom that they hold.

Everyone in the Garden of Eden had consequences.  Eve's wrong choices led to pain in childbirth, subjection to her husband's authority and the loss of her perfect world.  Adam forfeited his "cushy" job to discover that growing food would require a lot of sweat and hard work.  The fertile ground would grow only thorns and he, too, would be thrown out of the garden.   Death for man and animals became a reality and the serpent was doomed to crawl in the dust forever, facing the hatred of all men as well as judgment and death.

The story is told of a young man who, at the age of thirty-two, was appointed President of the bank.  He had never dreamed that he would become president at all - much less at such a young age.  So he approached the Chairman of the Board, a man known for his wisdom, and asked, "You know, I've just been appointed President and was wondering if you could give me some advice."  The old man came back with just two words, "Right decisions!"  The young man had hoped for a bit more than this.  "That's really helpful and I appreciate it," he said, "but can you be more specific?  For example, how do I make right decisions?"  The wise old man pondered the question for a moment then simply responded, "Experience."  Growing impatient, the young man said, "Well, that's why I am here.  I don't have the kind of experience I need. How do I get it?"  The terse reply quickly came, "Wrong decisions!" 

Wise people accept the consequences of sin and learn from their wrong choices and then apply those lessons to their lives. God honors a life of applied truth and will provide His wisdom and understanding as we follow and obey Him.

Let's Pray 
Father, I want Your wisdom for my life.  Please help me examine every choice that I make today in the light of Your truth. 

In Jesus' name,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn 

Accept the fact that temptation will come.  What temptations are you facing today?   
Get ready and stay ready to face temptation by reading and memorizing Scripture.  Start with John 3:16. 
When you sin, accept the consequences and learn the lessons of that wrong choice.  Read and memorize 1 John 1:9.  Look for opportunities to apply your newly gained wisdom by changing an attitude and/or behavior.

More From The Girlfriends
My husband often says that you can't keep a bird from flying over your head, but you can keep it from building a nest in your hair.  You cannot avoid temptation.  Just remember that temptation itself is not sin - but an invitation to sin.  When temptation knocks, ask Jesus to answer the door.

Are you seeking God?  Join other women across the world in Mary's Online Bible Study, Light for the Journey.  When you enroll, you also have access to all of the 2010 studies.  Check it out!

Need hope?  Get Mary's book, Hope in the Midst of Depression for ways to climb out of that pit you are in.  Learn how you can help someone you love who is dealing with the darkness.   

Need a friend?  Connect with Mary on Facebook or through email.  She loves hearing what God is doing in your life!

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]

July 30, 2010 

Friends That Sharpen 

Gwen Smith

Today's Truth
"Iron sharpens iron; so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend [to show rage or worthy purpose]" (Proverbs 27:17, AMP).

Friend To Friend
Whether it's over a steaming mug of dark roasted coffee, a frilly lunch served at the local sushi restaurant, or a power walk in the wee hours of the morning, my accountability partner and I meet regularly to speak into each other's lives.  We trust each other.  We challenge one another.  I'm a better woman because she's my friend - because she speaks with honesty and courage - because she is for me - because she turns my heart toward God and His ways.

As much as I love girlfriend time - and I truly do love girlfriend time - there's a depth to this particular friendship that flows to the core of who I am.  I often feel uncommonly exposed during our conversations.  Vulnerable, yet safe.  She gets in my grill about my priorities, marriage, mothering, ministry, and faith matters ... and I welcome it.  I need it.

We all need friends. We need people in our lives that will love us where we are and help us get to a place of higher living.  We need friends that will hold us accountable to God's standards - friends that sharpen us.

The Bible makes a compelling to point about this type of friendship. "Iron sharpens iron; so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend [to show rage or worthy purpose]." (Proverbs 27:17, AMP)

Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary on the Bible says of this principle: "We are cautioned to take heed whom we converse with.  And directed to have in view, in conversation, to make one another wiser and better."

Take time to consider your friendships today.  Do you have any friends who sharpen you and challenge your "worthy purpose"?  Who make you wiser and better?  Is there anyone in your life who asks you tough questions, shares godly truths, and confronts you when you need confronted?  If so, thank God for her.  Purpose to connect with her regularly, grant her permission to continue to speak into your life, and ask that she give you permission to do the same.

Are you that friend to anyone?  Do you long to have deeper friendships?  If you find yourself in a wide pool of shallow friendships, I'd encourage you to pray about it.  Pray that God would bring meaningful friendships to your life and that He would teach you what it looks like to be a good friend.

Sharon, Mary and I delight to come along side of you each day as your Girlfriends In God - to spur you on and encourage you towards Christ, but we could never replace the real-life friendships God intends for you to have. "Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work:  If one falls down, his friend can help him up.  But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up!" (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10, NIV)

When we have a friend that sharpens and we become a friend that sharpens, our lives are enriched.  Think about what our churches, our neighborhoods, our marriages, our work places, and our lives would look like if we all had this type of friend in our lives. Helen Keller said it beautifully: "Walking with a friend in the dark is better than walking alone in the light."

Let's Pray
Dear God, Thank You for friendships.  You know the people in my life and the needs of my heart.  Please help me to grow as a woman who is able to pour into the life of her friends.  Help my heart be open to constructive feedback that a friend might speak to me, and give me the capacity to love my friends as You love them.

In Jesus' Name I pray,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
Send a card, an email, a letter, or a text to a friend today ...  just to bless her.

1 Corinthians 15:33 says, "Do not be misled: "Bad company corrupts good character." Are there any friends in your life that are toxic?  If so, prayerfully consider how that relationship affects you, your family, and your faith.  If a friend encourages you to make bad choices and to live contrary to God's Word, then it's probably time to reconsider the friendship.

More From The Girlfriends
Need help finding a trustworthy, accountability friend?  Pray about it first, then connect with the women's ministry director or family pastor at your church and ask if they could introduce you to some women who would be well suited and available for such a friendship.

GOT FACEBOOK? Gwen loves her Facebook friends! J  Stop by Gwen's page at www.Facebook.com/GwenSmithMusic.  While you're there, leave a message on her wall - listen to a few songs - share the page with your FB friends!  (She interacts with and prays for her page friends regularly!)

Every beautiful act of friendship begins with the heart.  Has your heart been hurt by a friend?  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 at http://www.gwensmith.net/store/specials.htm.  When you order more than one CD, you save!

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]

August 2, 2010 

Don't Do It 

Sharon Jaynes

Today's Truth
"Flee from sexual immorality...Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God.  You are not your own, you were bought at a price.  Therefore honor God with your body" (1 Corinthians 6:18, 19-20 NIV).

Friend To Friend
Can I talk girlfriend to girlfriend for just a moment?  It's about a very uncomfortable subject, and honestly, one most of us would rather pretend does not exist in "Christian circles."  It's sexual sin.

In my last devotion, we stood road-side and looked at the story of the woman caught in adultery, and of Jesus who set her free.  Even though she wasn't behind prison bars, she was in bondage to a sinful lifestyle.  Sexual sin is highly addictive and the search for love in all the wrong places, insatiable.  It is a drink that never satisfies the soul and leaves the partaker only thirsty for more.

A woman is enticed by a syrupy word from a co-worker, an e-mail from an old boyfriend, an invitation on Facebook, or an alluring smile at a neighborhood gathering.  Loneliness fills the room and passion comes knocking at the door.  But when the smoke clears, loneliness returns with new hunger pangs laced with regret.

Sex outside of marriage can lead to many things: unwanted pregnancy, sexually transmitted diseases, divorce, mistrust, regret, shame, loss of family and a whole list of undesirable dominos that tumble in succession.  But in Jesus' day, a woman caught in the act of adultery faced possible execution.  In some parts of the world, that law is still enforced today.  So why would the woman that we meet in John Chapter 8 who was caught in the act of adultery take the risk?  Was it worth it?  No.  The answer is always no.

There is no greater longing in the heart of a woman than to be loved, cherished, and cared for.  It can cause the strongest to break a resolve and succumb to the tempter's lure.  Adultery has been the cause for church leaders to crumble, ministries to melt down, and families to falter.  Sexual sin has caused the most sensible to act like a fool, the most moral to march into madness, the most devout to be devoured by desire.  The desire to love and to be loved can sometimes scream over the din of reason.

The yearning for love gnaws at the heart.  And then the brush of a hand, the glimpse of the eyes, or the stirring of a comment blows on a spark and sets it ablaze.  Loneliness echoes in a hollow soul, just as passion come scratching at the door. Never doubt this, my friend: Satan is an opportunist who takes advantage of the lonely heart (Luke 4:13).

To be loved is one of the strongest desires of the human heart.  God planned it that way because He longs for us to have that longing filled by a relationship with Him; but so many settle for a sip from the rusty tin cup when God offers an everlasting stream.

A woman can risk it all for a few moments of passion.  She can lie to herself that a sexual relationship or liaison is love.  Then after the brief pleasure lies exposed by the morning sun, she realizes what felt like love was tainted with the poison of shame.  It can happen.  It does happen.  It did happen to the woman standing before Jesus with an angry mob of rock-holding Pharisees gathered around.  It has happened to many women who e-mail me every day.

I sat in a movie theater with a friend who had succumbed to sexual temptation.  She had lost her husband, her family, and many of her "friends."  During a preview for another movie, the film showed a woman contemplating an affair with a suave Frenchman.  Martha (not her real name) spoke a bit too loudly for the moviegoers sitting in the darkened theater.  "Don't do it," she cried aloud.  The words came out of her mouth before she could stop them.  Martha was living the devastation of yielding to sexual temptation, and her audible cry was the overflow of her pain-filled heart.

Can I shout with Martha for just a moment?  "Don't do it!" 

I know this devotion is not for everybody.  But if there is one woman out of the 200,000 or so that receive our Girlfriends in God devotions every day...just one woman who will turn away from the temptation that is knocking on her door today, then it is worth it. 

Don't do it.  Turn to God and allow Him to fill the emptiness in your heart today.  He's waiting with open arms.

Let's Pray
Dear God, I pray that I will be alert to the devil's schemes today.  Help me to see when and where he is tempting me to sin against You.  Give me the strength to flee temptation and run straight into Your arms.  I cannot do this on my own.  I need the power of Your Holy Spirit to empower me to do what is right and good in Your sight.  Thank You for being all that I need.

In Jesus' Name,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
Have you been contemplating a sexual relationship outside of marriage?  What is God telling you today?

Are you in a sexual relationship outside of marriage right now?  What is God telling you today?

If neither one of these application questions apply to you, would you please join me in praying for our dear sisters who are fighting the temptation to enter into such a relationship or struggling to get out of one?  Let's hit our knees for our girlfriends in God who desperately need our loving intercession.

If this devotion was for you, would you e-mail me privately at Sharon@sharonjaynes.com?  I'd love to pray for you.

More From The Girlfriends
Check out Sharon's latest book:  What God Really Thinks about Women: Finding Your Significance through the Women Jesus Encountered. We tend to read the gospels with our twenty-first century eyes.  But when we understand how oppressive the culture Jesus stepped into was against women, we begin to understand just how radical Jesus' ministry, messages, and miracles were at setting women free.  He risked His reputation to save theirs...and yours.  To order this life-changing book, visit www.sharonjaynes.com.  You'll fall in love with Jesus all over again.

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]

August 3, 2010 

Always on Time 

Mary Southerland

Today's Truth
Philippians 4:19 (NIV) "And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus."

Friend To Friend
I grew up in Texas where we lived in what some might call a "shack" on the edge of a small town. To me, it was just home. My amazing mother often worked three jobs to make ends meet but that "meeting" did not always happen. Looking back, I can honestly say that God always provided what we needed - when we needed it. He still does.

My husband and I knew the finances would be tight last week but we did not expect the brakes to go out on one of our cars or plan a trip to urgent care or expect the electric bill to be so high. The cost of groceries suggested that we fast for awhile and the rent was due. I know you can relate.

After many years of serving God, you would think I would know and walk in the truth that God is our source and provides everything we need - when we need it. Oh, no! I panicked! A frantic search for some solution to our financial problems ensued. In the midst of that panic, I suddenly remembered the mail. Interesting timing wasn't it?

I had not checked our mailbox in three days and knew the box would be crammed full. When I unlocked our mailbox, a pile of newspapers, envelopes, magazines, bills and cards spilled into my hands and onto the ground. The mailman had also left me a key to the larger mailbox below that was usually reserved for packages. It was full of mail as well. I cleared off the kitchen table where I began sorting through the mound of paper, discarding all of the junk mail and organizing the rest.

And then I saw it - an envelope that seemed to stand out from the rest of the mail.

I slowly opened the envelope. The return address told me it was from the Women's Ministry Director of a church where I had spoken several months before. One of my best friends was a member of the church, and I had offered to speak for an event that I hoped would encourage her as well as each woman who attended. I did not ask for or expect an honorarium, but as I slowly opened the envelope, I saw a check written for the exact amount that would meet our financial needs for the week.

I fell into a chair and began to pray, asking God to forgive my lack of faith and my choice to worry instead of trusting Him. I marveled in the knowledge that the check had been written long before the need became evident to me. In other words, God met our need before we even knew we had a need.

By the way, I am a mail freak and have been for most of my life. I check the mail every single day without fail. Not this week! God knew I needed a reminder of His faithfulness and He knew exactly when I needed it. He is always right on time.

Let's Pray
Father, Thank You for meeting the needs in my life in Your perfect timing. Forgive me when I fail to trust You and allow worry to steal my joy. I want to be patient and learn how to wait on You to work in my life. Your faithfulness sustains me and Your mercy blesses my life. I praise You, God!

In Jesus' name,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
Read Psalm 104:13-15. How does this passage of Scripture encourage you to trust God in every area of your life?

Read Luke 6:38. What does this verse say to you about the relationship between giving and receiving from God?

What need in your life is a source of fear and uncertainty? Right now, surrender that need to God and praise Him for meeting it.

More From The Girlfriends
God's love is not a shallow love that always rescues easily or quickly. God loves us enough to walk us through the fiery times that make us more like His Son, Jesus Christ. His ways are not our ways and His thoughts are different from our thoughts. He is Holy God! Join me in a new commitment to trust God to work at the right time and in the right way in your life.

Need help? Check out one of Mary's E-Bible Studies for practical steps you can take to strengthen your faith and find answers to the problems you face every day. Titles include Anger Management 911, God's Answer to Stress, Getting a Grip on Fear and more. 

Join other women across the world in Mary's Online Bible Study, Light for the Journey. Sandpaper People is the current series beginning August 2. Learn 10 ways to deal with the difficult people in your life. Don't miss this study! When you enroll, you also have access to all of the 2010 studies we have done so far. Check it out!

Going through a tough time? Are your fears and uncertainties rooted in your past? Get past your past! Check out Mary's FREE MP3: Getting Past Your Past.

Need a friend? Connect with Mary on Facebook or through email. She loves hearing what God is doing in your life!

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]

August 4, 2010 

Freed to Start Anew 

Sharon Jaynes

Today's Truth
"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation: the old has gone, the new has come!" (2 Corinthians 5:17 NIV)

Friend To Friend
Laura lived in a small town with parents who were morally sound and family oriented.  She went to church from her earliest remembrance and was baptized when she was twelve-years-old.  In high school, she began dating Barry.  After Laura went off to college both of Barry's parents died.  He was lonely and missed the close-knit family he had once enjoyed.

After Laura's first year of college, Barry began talking marriage.  He had not gone to college and wanted her to come home and be his wife.  Laura was torn, but made the decision to marry Barry and continue working toward her degree.

Laura and I held hands and prayed together before she walked down the aisle.  It was a beautiful day as I stood with her and the two were united as man and wife.  However, after the wedding comes the marriage - something that neither the nineteen-year-old Laura nor Barry were prepared to face.

After five years, Laura was bored with the marriage, restless in her job, and disappointed in her husband.  While working in a medical office, Bob, a salesman for an international medical supply company, took on their account. Bob was older and lived what seemed like an exciting lifestyle.  It started as friendly bantering, which progressed to enticing flirtation.  Laura found herself looking forward to Thursdays - the day the rep made his weekly visits.

A touch here, a lunch there, and soon an affair ensued.  Laura packed her bags, left her marriage, her job, and her hometown to move to greener pastures.  But the greener pastures weren't so green.  Thorns infested the relationship.  Bob wasn't interested in anything long term.  Laura was just a young plaything he toyed with on weekends.  What promised to be an exciting life away from small town America, away from a mundane, monotonous marriage, turned into a deep, dark pit of regret and remorse.  Laura discovered Bob wasn't anything special.  He was just someone different - a diversion.  And she was his flavor of the month.

After her divorce was final, Laura was left all alone in a strange town.  What have I done?  She cried.

Laura's husband remarried and put the broken pieces of his life back together.  Laura, on the other hand, was just broken.

Laura turned away from our friendship when she headed down the road to self-destruction, but after she came to her senses, she called me - full of remorse and sadness.  I welcomed her in my arms, held her close to my heart, and brought her to my hometown.  My husband and I found her a job, helped her get her finances in order, and directed her to a great Bible-based church.  That's what it looked like on the outside, but here's what really happened.

Laura, in her own words would tell you that she stood before Jesus like the woman caught in adultery.  She felt the stares of her accusers and recoiled at the rocks that would surely fly.  In her own mind, she stood naked and ashamed before her community, her childhood church body, and her lifelong friends.  But more importantly, she stood in shame before Jesus.

"I didn't think God would forgive me," she began.  "I had hurt my family, my husband, and my witness.  What would God want with someone like me?"

"Laura," I began, "we are all sinners.  We are all saved by grace.  None of us deserve it.  That's what makes grace, grace. You made a terrible mistake, but so did the woman caught in adultery that the Pharisees brought to Jesus.  What did Jesus do with that woman?  What did he say?"

"He told her to go and sin no more."

Exactly.  He told her to leave her life of sin.  That doesn't mean that she never sinned again.  But we can safely believe that she left this lifestyle, this sinful relationship, and began a new life.  That is what Jesus will do for you.  That is what he does for all of us."

God promises: "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). Another translation uses the words "cleanse us from all unrighteousness" (NASB).  I love the picture of God washing away all our sins, erasing the list of offenses, throwing our sins into the deepest of seas - all gone.

Laura did begin again.  She repented of her sin, immersed herself in Bible study and ministry, and began a new life totally committed to the One who forgave her and set her free from condemnation.  And that my friend, is what Jesus does for each and every one of us who come to him with a repentant heart ready to start anew.

After Laura began her new life, she followed hard after God.  She was so grateful for a chance to start again, and she gave her life to serving and honoring Jesus.

Sometime during her fifth year at her new church, she met a wonderful Christian man, Peter.  After they were married, Laura and Peter committed their lives to serving God wherever He led.  After a missions trip to Eastern Europe, they both felt God calling them to return on a more permanent basis.  Now, for over ten years, Laura and Peter have been serving God in Eastern Europe, planting churches and loving people to Christ.  She has agreed with Paul when he wrote, "This one thing I do, forgetting what lies behind and straining toward what lies ahead" (Philippians 3:13).  But friend, it is a choice. 

See, God doesn't just set us free from our past.  He sets us free to an exciting future.  And Jesus showcased the woman caught in adultery in John chapter 8 and my friend, Laura, to show us how.

Let's Pray
Dear God, thank You for being a God who allows u-turns.  Not only do You forgive me of my sin, You allow me to start anew. 

In Jesus' Name,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
Did you know that God allows u-turns in your own life?

Is there an area that you need to make a u-turn and head back toward God?

Are you ready to repent of your sin, accept God's forgiveness, and begin a new life filled with purpose?  If so, it is only a prayer away.

I'd love to hear your thoughts on today's devotion.  Let's chat. 

Visit www.facebook.com/sharonjaynes.

More From The Girlfriends
Today's devotion was taken from Sharon's new book, What God Really Thinks about Women: Finding Your Significance through the Women Jesus Encountered. We tend to read the gospels with our twenty-first century eyes.  But when we understand how oppressive the culture Jesus stepped into was against women, we begin to understand just how radical Jesus' ministry, messages, and miracles were at setting women free. He risked His reputation to save theirs...and yours.  And if you are struggling to let go of past mistakes and failures, you might want to check out Sharon's book, Your Scars are Beautiful to God.

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]

August 5, 2010 

A Box of Socks 

Mary Southerland

Today's Truth
Matthew 21:22 (NIV) "If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer."

Friend To Friend
My sister loves socks! One day, we were shopping and happened to walk into a department store where neither one of us could afford to buy one single thing. We were just passing through, on our way to find the bargains we could afford. With a sigh and a wistful look on her face, Betty said, "I wish I could afford to shop in this store." When I asked her what she would buy, she immediately replied with a smile, "Socks! I want a big box of socks. I would wear a different pair every day." I could think of several things I would have liked to buy in that store and socks was not one of them. I guess it is a matter of perspective. What was important to her was not important to me.

I sometimes think my prayer requests are insignificant and unimpressive to God. After all, He is God. Does He really have the time or the desire to hear and answer my prayers? Yes! The truth is that if it is important to me, it is important to God.

Each Christmas, Operation Shoebox collects and sends over eight million shoeboxes stuffed with small gifts such as candy, school supplies, small toys, toothbrushes, soap, and shampoo to children across the world. In Mexico, hundreds of boys and girls gathered at the church in a small village, excitedly anticipating the arrival of their precious shoeboxes. 

Delightful chaos erupted as bulging shoeboxes, wrapped in brightly colored paper and ribbon were passed into the small, eager hands of each child. Wrapping paper was hurriedly ripped into pieces and tossed aside, a smile spreading across the face of each child as their long awaited Christmas treasures were revealed. However, one little boy dissolved into tears as he lifted the lid of his box and peered inside to see what he had received for Christmas this year. 

One of the Operation Shoebox volunteers spotted the little boy and hurriedly made his way across the church to see what the problem could possibly be. With the help of an interpreter, the volunteer asked the now sobbing little boy, "What is wrong? What is in your box?" With tears streaming down his face, the little boy said, "Socks!" The worker instantly understood and assured the little boy that he could trade his box of socks for another box that might have crayons or a piece of candy in it.

Alarm spread across the face of the child as he vigorously shook his head and quickly jerked the box away from the now somewhat confused worker. Clutching the shoebox to his chest, the boy began sobbing out an explanation to the interpreter who listened for a few moments and then, with tears spilling out of his own eyes, turned to the volunteer and said, "You won't believe this!" 

Taking a deep, steadying breath, the interpreter explained, "This little boy has a rare skin condition with which he was born. It seems to affect his feet more than any other spot on his body. The doctors have tried various medications and treatments but finally told the little boy that nothing will work and his feet will never heal unless he begins wearing cotton socks. His parents cannot even afford food for this boy; much less provide socks for their son. So, all year long, he has been praying for socks." 

Socks were at the top of the little boy's prayer list. As a matter of fact, they were his list. The mere sight of ordinary cotton socks brought tears to his eyes as he stared in awe at the priceless gift in his hands - socks. You see, they were more than just socks. They were the profound answer from our extraordinary God to a child's simple prayer. One unknown and seemingly insignificant boy in Mexico prayed. God heard him and said "Let me take care of you."

No matter how small or trivial your prayers may seem, remember God's perspective. If it is important to you, it is important to Him. 

Let's Pray
Father, thank You for the privilege of coming before You in prayer. I want prayer to be as natural to me as breathing out and breathing in. I refuse to believe the lie that my prayers are too small or unimportant for You to hear. You are my Father. You are my God and You long to hear my voice. I will bring every prayer of my heart to You.

In Jesus' name,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
Do you have your own "box of socks" for which you are praying? What is it?

Do you really believe that God will hear and answer your prayer?

Read Hebrews 11:6. How does your faith measure up to the faith described in this verse?

Today, pray in faith and see what God does!

More From The Girlfriends
Do you have your own "box of socks" story? I would love to hear it! Email me! Know that Sharon, Gwen and I are praying for you and asking God to increase your faith ... as you go. Blessings.

Need help? Check out one of Mary's E-Bible Studies for practical steps you can take to strengthen your faith and find answers to the problems you face every day. Titles include Anger Management 911, God's Answer to Stress, Getting a Grip on Fear and more. 

Join other women across the world in Mary's Online Bible Study, Light for the Journey. Sandpaper People is the current series beginning August 2. Learn 10 ways to deal with the difficult people in your life - you know - the ones who rub you the wrong way. Don't miss this study! When you enroll, you also have access to all of the 2010 studies we have done so far. Check it out!

Going through a tough time? Are your fears and uncertainties rooted in your past? Get past them! Check out Mary's FREE MP3: Getting Past Your Past.

Need a friend? Connect with Mary on Face book or through email. She loves hearing what God is doing in your life! 

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]

August 6, 2010 

Please Notice Me 

Gwen Smith

Today's Truth
"Long ago the Lord said to Israel: "I have loved you, my people, with an everlasting love. With unfailing love I have drawn you to myself" (Jeremiah 31:3, NLT).

Friend To Friend
We were gathered as a family around the pull up bar in the upstairs hall to see our oldest son, Preston, display his thirteen-year-old man-cub strength. Like a chimpanzee, he pulled his lanky frame up and down with ease, impressing us all. When he was exhausted, Preston dropped down and met our enthusiastic applause with a satisfied grin.

As the clapping and praise died down, my nine-year-old daughter, Kennedy, decided to give the pull up bar a try. Lifted to the high metal pole by her strong daddy, she gave her best effort but fell short of her desired goal. With a slightly disappointed - but not defeated - expression, she dropped to the floor, knowing that it would be a while until her upper body strength could support numerous pull up attempts.

Then my middle child man-cub jumped up to join the pull up party. At twenty-six months younger than Preston, Hunter struggled to raise and lower his youthful body on the bar. After a few successes - and even more fumbled attempts - Hunter dropped to his feet with a scowl and stomped away angrily.

Before he got too far, my husband and I spoke words of encouragement to him.

They rolled off his wilted shoulders.

He was frustrated. Disappointed. Mad.

In his eleven-year-old mind, he thought that he should be able to do what his older brother could do. He wanted the spontaneous, enthusiastic applause of an impressed gathering - not the parental encouragement to "keep working on it." So he grumbled and stewed.

After a few cool-down moments, my husband called Hunter over to have a private daddy chat. Brad confronted Hunter on the negative behavior he displayed. Then he spoke words of life to Hunter's little boy heart.

With eyes that communicated understanding and remorse, Hunter looked at his daddy and vulnerably confessed, "I'm sorry, Dad, I just really like attention - especially from you and mom."

A beautiful love moment followed.

Our days are filled with teachable moments. Sometimes we teach children. Sometimes they teach us. Often both. Hunter's voice echoed across the globe as he spoke on behalf of all the children of the world. Every child wants attention. Every child wants love.

But that longing doesn't stop at childhood. His words ring true in our hearts, don't they? Each of us wants to be loved. We all wear an invisible sign that says, "Please notice me!" "Tell me that I'm special." "Show me that you love me...and really mean it!" 

"Long ago the Lord said to Israel: "I have loved you, my people, with an everlasting love. With unfailing love I have drawn you to myself" (Jeremiah 31:3, NLT).

Just as God spoke those words to His children, the Israelites, long ago, God speaks across the universe today to each daughter's heart: "I notice you!" "You are special to me." "I love you...perfectly...eternally...completely, and I really mean it." He beautifully demonstrated that love through the death and resurrection of His son, Jesus. He speaks that same love through His Word and His Spirit whispers it to the hearts of His children continuously.

Are you listening? Can you hear the whispers?

Let's Pray
Dear God, You are always worthy of my attention, my affection, my adoration, and my love. To think that You would choose to love me, listen to me, and draw me to Your heart is simply mind-boggling. You are so good! Could you please speak those words of love to my heart again today, Lord?

In Jesus' Name I pray,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
Do you believe that God notices you? What do you base that belief on?

Insert your name in this verse: "Long ago the Lord said to ________________ "I have loved you, _______________, with an everlasting love. With unfailing love I have drawn you to myself, ___________________." (Jeremiah 31:3, NLT)

Believe it, friend. It's true.

More From The Girlfriends
God's love is perfect. He has seen our biggest failures, our greatest places of shame and hurt - and yet, He beckons us to His love, forgiveness, healing, and grace. He has a plan for each life that is far beyond the shattered matters we deal with. Every step of transformation begins with our surrender to the heart of God. If you would like to learn more about how your brokenness can be reworked 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!

GOT FACEBOOK? Gwen loves to connect with Facebook friends! J  Stop by Gwen's page at www.Facebook.com/GwenSmithMusic.  While you're there, leave a message on her wall - listen to a few songs - share the page with your FB friends!  (She interacts with and prays for her page friends regularly!)

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