Girlfriends in God

[Judy Harder]

August 23, 2010 

The Hidden Treasure 

Sharon Jaynes

Today's Truth
"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose" (Romans 8:28 NIV).

Friend to Friend
Romans 8:28 is a verse in the Bible that has been loved and despised by many who struggle with difficult situations or mourn the loss of a broken dream.  "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."

What does God really mean by "all things?"  Last time I checked, it means "all things" including the good, the bad, and the ugly.  In every dark circumstance of life, I believe that there is a nugget of gold or a hidden treasure, waiting to be discovered.  However, for that to happen, we must get out of the pit, push the dirt aside, and look beneath the surface.

Is it easy?  No.  Is it messy?  Usually.  It is worth it?  Always.

Many years after we had lost our second child, I was standing in the doorway of our son's room.  I watched as Steven lay in a tangle of sheets with limbs sticking out in all directions.  He was sixteen-years-old, six-feet tall, and needed a shave.  A mass of shaggy thick brown hair rested on his pillow and my heart swelled with love for this man-child.

"Lord," I prayed, "you know how much I love children and how I always longed to be a mom.  Your ways are higher than our ways and I know that You are my heavenly Father who knows what is best for me, but God, I need a nugget of gold today.  I need for You to show me a purpose behind this pain.  Why were there no more children?"

Then, God's Word washed over me: For God so loved the world, that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

"Is that You Lord," I asked.  Again: For God so loved the world, that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

The words drenched me like a spring rain on parched ground, and for the first time in my life, I truly grasped the height, the depth, and the breadth of those familiar words. 

See, I have a one and only son.  There are many people that I love in this world, but there is no one...no one...that I love enough to sacrifice my only son.  And yet, God loved me that much.  He loved me enough to sacrifice His one and only Son in order to give me life.  With tears streaming down my cheeks, I thanked God for helping me understand His great love - for giving me a living breathing picture indelibly impressed in my mind and on my heart.  If that was the only purpose behind the years of infertility and the loss of a child, then that was enough.

Have you gone through a painful time in your life?  If so, God has a valuable treasure just waiting to be discovered. Today, pray that God will reveal the nugget of gold to be unearthed.

Let's Pray

Dear Lord, I know that You can use every difficult situation in my life for good.  I may not understand Your ways, but I trust Your wisdom.  I may not see Your hand, but I trust Your heart.  I pray that You will open my spiritual eyes to see the hidden treasure in today's dark circumstances.

In Jesus' Name,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
How would you explain mining for gold to a child?

How is mining for gold much like looking for treasure in the dirt of life?

Has there been a difficult situation in your past that God has used for good?  If so, what is it?

Are you willing to ask God to show you the hidden treasure? 

More from the Girlfriends
Today's lesson was taken from Becoming Spiritually Beautiful.  If you would like to learn more about discovering the gold in the difficulties of life, and becoming the radiant woman that God intended all along, then this book is for you!  Let's grow and glow together!

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


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

[Judy Harder]

August 24, 2010   

Beautiful Irritations 

Mary Southerland

Today's Truth
Isaiah 45:3 "I will give you the treasures of darkness, riches stored in secret places so that you may know that I am the LORD, your God (NIV).

Friend to Friend
Life can be so irritating. More often than not, it is the little things that annoy me the most.  The lost set of keys. The misplaced cell phone. The ice-maker that refuses to do its job on a hot summer day. The empty tea pitcher stuck back in the refrigerator. But then there are times when people are the problem. They show up uninvited or call when I am running out the door, already late for an appointment that I really don't have time to keep. Been there?

I am convinced that these tiny irritations are a tool in the hand of a loving Father who uses them as "heavenly sandpaper" to rub off some of our rough edges. 

I was invited to speak for a women's conference based on the theme, "Pearls of Wisdom." When I arrived at the conference center, I was greeted by women wearing pearl necklaces, pearl bracelets, pearl pins, hats covered in multicolored pearls ... you name it, and they wore it if it had pearls. Each table was beautifully decorated with treasure chests overflowing with strands of pearls. Oyster shells held candy mints that looked like pearls and each name tag was decorated with a single pearl. It was amazing! 

I was warmly welcomed and then promptly introduced to the event director and leadership team who were excited and ready to go - except for one problem. I was "pearl-less." I was quickly told that the speaker had to wear pearls of some kind. I did not have any pearls but this creative group of ladies was not easily deterred and before I knew it, I was wearing a stunning pearl necklace - and the pearls were the real deal. I could just see that necklace breaking while I was speaking, but before I could utter one word of protest, the owner of the necklace said, "Don't worry! You can just give it back to me at the end of the conference." And off we went!

I am what you might call an "active" speaker in that I cannot stand still and talk at the same time. I get excited, pace the stage, arms waving and can literally work up quite a sweat. The "Pearls of Wisdom" conference was no exception. In fact, it was a blistering summer day and the air conditioning was having trouble keeping up with the size of the crowd. By the time I finished speaking, I was indeed "glowing." When we were dismissed for the day, women waited in line to talk, ask for prayer or share a new truth God had given them. I forgot all about the pearl necklace until its owner quietly slipped up beside me and said, "I have to leave and need to retrieve my necklace." As she began to undo the necklace clasp, I apologized for perspiring all over her beautiful pearls. She laughed and said, "Actually, it is good for them. Human perspiration helps the pearls keep their luster." 

I am constantly amazed at the profound truths God has tucked into the simple things of life. Pearls are formed when a piece of grit, sand or shell is trapped inside an oyster. The oyster protects itself from irritation by secreting a nacreous liquid that surrounds the irritant until it eventually becomes a pearl. In other words, what begins as an annoying irritant eventually becomes a valuable treasure. The same is true in life.

Looking back, I can honestly say that the greatest treasures in my life have been discovered during the darkest times of my life. A battle with clinical depression stripped away years of fear and doubt, leaving me with a new identity in Christ and a ministry I never thought possible. The inability to have biological children made it possible to adopt our son and daughter, Jered and Danna, giving my husband and me a gift beyond measure. Over the years, weaknesses have given way to strengths and failures have led to successes and God has used it all for His glory and my good. 

In God's economy, a mess is the perfect setting for a miracle, girlfriend. A sliver of hope and a seed of victory are buried at the center of every problem. God has gone before you. He has already been where you are going and in every trial or difficult moment of life, God has buried a treasure. When the tough times come, just look for the pearls.

Let's Pray
Father, I am so sorry for the way I complain about my circumstances. Please forgive me for my bad attitude when things don't go my way. I want to see Your hand in every part of every day - good or bad. Help me learn how to face every storm with confidence, knowing that You really are in control even though I cannot hear Your voice or see Your hand at work. May others see You in my life. 

In Jesus' name,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
Read James 1:2-4 and answer the following questions:

·         What does the word "consider" suggest as a response to difficult circumstances?

·         What should our first response be to trials?

·         What does the testing of our faith produce in us?

·         What promise does James give us when we are faithful and choose to stand strong when life is hard?

·         How do these truths relate to your life today?

More From The Girlfriends
I don't know about you, but I tend to look for the nearest exit when a storm hits. Avoiding difficult people and complicated circumstances tends to be one of my most common goals. Can you relate? What we really need to do is cultivate an attitude of unshakable confidence in God and keep a "but God" promise in our heart.

"My husband has lost his job, but God will provide." 

"The doctors have said there is no hope, but God is the Great Physician."

"I don't know what to do, but God will show me the way."

We live in uncertain times which demand a certain hope that can only be found in God.  Right now, choose faith over feeling. Don't doubt in the darkness what you learned in the light. God is with you, friend. Look for the pearls!

Need help? Check out Mary's books, Sandpaper People and Escaping the Stress Trap for ways to handle those irritating people who rub you the wrong way and manage the stress they can cause in your life.

FREE MP3s Check out these free MP3s from Mary. I Love a Good Plan and Getting Past Your Past.

Join women from across the world in Mary's Online Bible Study, Light for the Journey. Sandpaper People is the current series and will help you discover ten ways to deal with the "sandpaper people" in your life - you know - the ones that rub you the wrong way. When you enroll, you also have access to all of the 2010 studies. Check it out!

Need a friend? Connect with me on Facebook or through email. I love 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 25, 2010 

Meeting the Man of Your Dreams 

Sharon Jaynes

Today's Truth
"I who speak to you am he" (John 4:26 NIV).

Friend to Friend
The harsh mid-day sun beat down through a cloudless sky. The morning breeze had long since stilled as the heavy air weighed a body down.  The weary, worn woman picked up her empty water jug, a reflection of her empty life, and headed to Jacob's well to draw her daily supply.

Jacob's well was a bustling place for community life among the women in the small village.  It was their one chance to leave the confines of home and mingle with friends. They caught up on the latest gossip, exchanged village news, and shared homemaking tips. Most women came to the well in groups...no surprise there.  But Ramona ventured out alone.

"It would be nice if I could go to the well in the cool of the morning or the calm of the evening like all the other women," she mumbled to herself.  "But it's just not worth it.  I'm tired of the condescending stares, the buzzing gossip, and the snide snickers. Why, last week, Mariah yanked her five-year old daughter's arm to keep her from getting too close to me.  What?  Did she think I would contaminate her if she brushed my robe?  No, I prefer the searing sun to their glaring gazes."

Ramona peeked out of the door. "High noon.  The coast is clear."

The Samaritan woman easily balanced the five-gallon water jug atop her veiled head and made her way to the community well.  Her thoughts of rejection continued as she plodded down the dusty trail. She felt as empty as the jug she carried.  All I've ever wanted was to be loved.  What's so wrong with that?  Five times I've tried and five times I've been rejected.  Married and divorced, married and divorced. Tossed away like an old worn sandal.  Rejected by men. Shunned by former friends. I guess I'm just a throw-away person that nobody really wants.

Ramona's thoughts were interrupted as she reached her destination and noticed a lone man sitting by the well's edge.  What's a Jew like that doing in a place like this? She mused.  I'll just keep my eyes down and pretend he isn't here.

But he was there.  And he was there for a purpose. 

His unexpected words pierced the silence.

"Will you give me a drink," He asked. 

A Jewish man would never stoop so low as to speak to a Samaritan woman, she thought.  He's just like all other men.  He won't speak to me in public where people can see, but he is all too eager to engage when he wants something.  I'll show him.

With a hint of sarcasm, the woman replied.  "You are a Jew and I am a Samaritan woman.  How can you ask me for a drink? Isn't that against the rules?"         

Jesus ignored her sarcasm and cut right to the chase.  He was more interested in winning the woman than winning the war of words.  "If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asked you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water."

Now he had her attention.  What in the world is living water?  What is the gift?  Who is this man? Without realizing it, she lowered her water jug and began lowering her emotional walls as well.

"And how are you going to get this living water?" she laughed.  "You don't even have a bucket?  Are you just going to reach down in the well with your hands?  Our forefather, Jacob, gave us this well.  Are you saying that you are greater than Jacob?  That you can give us something better than he has given?"

Even though Jesus was trying to move her thinking from a physical need to spiritual truth, she was not quick to follow.

"Drink from this well," Jesus continued, "and you'll be thirsty again.  But if you drink from the well that I'm speaking of, the well of living water, your thirst will be quenched forever.  Not only that, you'll have a spring of water living inside you that will bubble up and spill over onto those around you."

"Give me that water!" she said.  "Oh how I'd love to never come to this well again!"

The woman didn't understand what "living water" was all about, but if it meant that she didn't have to come to the well every day and face the condemning comments and stoic stares from the other women in the town, she wanted it.

"Go, call your husband and come back."

Suddenly, the warmth she had felt earlier began to seep from her soul and the empty chill returned with a vengeance. 

"I don't have a husband," she flatly replied, retreating behind harsh features and a practiced face.           

"You are right," Jesus continued.  "I'm glad that you admitted it.  I applaud your honesty. The truth is, you have had five husbands and the man you're living with right now is not your husband.  So you are telling the truth when you say you don't have a husband."

There was not a hint of condemnation in Jesus' voice.  He simply stated the facts like he would have noted the day's weather condition or the price of eggs at the market.

Suddenly the years of her pitiful life passed before her and she saw herself all alone...emotionally empty and desperately thirsty.  How did he know that about me?  She wondered. Who is this man? Is he a prophet?

Trying to skirt the real issue at hand, the woman tried to engage Jesus in a theological debate.  She tried to divert the conversation away from her life and onto a safer subject. "Sir, I get the idea that you are a prophet.  Our fathers worshiped on this mountain, but you Jews claim that the place where we must worship is in Jerusalem.  Which is it?"

"Believe me," Jesus said, "one day you will worship the Father neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem.  A time is coming and actually has now come, when the true worshippers will worship the Father in spirit and truth.  That's what God really wants.  It is not about where you worship but whom and how."

"Oh well," she shrugged, "I know that Messiah is coming.  When he comes, he will explain everything to us." 

Jesus looked intently at the woman, and for the first time in his ministry, he told someone his true identity. "I who speak to you am he."

She wanted to laugh, to cry, to worship at his feet, but before she could do any of those things, a cloud of dust and the rumble of male voices interrupted their conversation.  Jesus' friends had returned from the market and stopped short; amazed that Jesus was talking to a woman alone.  But even more startling than who he was talking to, was what he had just said..."I am he." 

Then leaving her water pot, she ran back to town and told the townsfolk about the Messiah she met at Jacob's well.  She had met the man of her dreams-- what she had been longing for all her life.  She had met the Messiah.

Let's Pray
Lord, I am that woman.  No, I haven't been married and divorced five times, but I do come thirsty.  Thank You for giving me Your living water!  Today, I drink deeply and share freely. Forgive me for going to "other wells" seeking satisfaction.  I know that You are the only One who will satisfy my soul completely.

In Jesus' Name,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
Today's devotion was taken from John chapter 4.  I hope you'll go back and read it for yourself.  I've re-told the story hoping to make it come alive for you.  This was a real woman with real pain.  We don't really know her name, but it we could certainly write our own names in the script.

So today's assignment is simple: go back and read John 4:1-42 in your Bible.  We'll meet up with this woman again in my next devotion.

I'd love to hear your thoughts about Jesus' interaction with our Samaritan friend. Let's chat. Visit www.facebook.com/sharonjayenes and share your heart.

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. Read this book and 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 26, 2010 

Greed Stinks! 

Mary Southerland

Today's Truth
Colossians 3:5 (NIV) "Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry."

Friend to Friend
Cantaloupe may very well be my favorite food. When it is in season, I stock up and always have some on hand. On one particularly hot day, a lunch of cantaloupe sounded luscious ... and it was. Afterwards, I was gone for several hours, running errands. When I walked back in the front door that afternoon, a foul stench nearly knocked me down. It was such a strong odor! A dead animal was my first thought. A plumbing problem was my next idea. I began a room-to-room search that ended abruptly at the kitchen sink. Opening the cabinet underneath, I nearly gagged at the stench that slapped me in the face, making my eyes water. I instantly remembered that I had thrown the cantaloupe peels in the garbage before running errands and forgotten to take them to the outside garbage can as I usually did. The house reeked and the delicious cantaloupe was forgotten as I threw the peels away, lit every candle I could find and opened every window in an effort to eliminate the odor of rotting fruit. Nasty!     

Greed acts the same way in our life and must be treated like garbage. Deliberately throw it away. Remove it from your life as soon as you discover its presence in your life. In 2 Corinthians 7:1, we find the apostle Paul's strong warning to "purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God" (NIV). Greed is the gangrene of the soul and if not quickly dealt with, will contaminate every emotion, creating a foul stench in every part of life. Choose against it. Fight it with Scripture and bombard it with prayer, remembering that God alone is our provider and that He will supply our every need.

I have come to the conclusion that the underlying problem with wants and needs is that we confuse the two.  What we want and what we need are not always the same things. Anyone who has met my husband will tell you that he is down-to-earth and unassuming. Dan may be a mega church pastor, but he is also very approachable and unpretentious. The truck Dan drives is proof that he is totally unimpressed with the material things this world has to offer. Our family named the truck "Old Blue" for two reasons. It is old and it is blue. However, it is paid for and it runs and that is all Dan needs. However, I am certain that he would not turn down an offer from someone who wanted to buy him a brand new Ford F-150 truck as a Christmas gift. In fact, from time to time, I have seen him gaze at some bright, shiny new truck with longing in his eyes.   

Dan is the lead teaching pastor of a church that runs over 5,000 people in attendance each week and could easily rationalize driving a nice car or truck as part of his pastoral image. The only problem with that idea is that Dan is not the least bit concerned with his pastoral image when it comes to material possessions. He is, however, deeply concerned with the image of God being seen in his life.

Is it wrong to want and desire nice things? Not if we view and use those nice things as tools and refuse to worship them as idols. I sometimes think God has to strip us of everything we have so we can learn the life changing truth that He is our Source. Just as the shepherd meets every need of his sheep, God meets our every need. Just as sheep totally depend upon their shepherd's care, we would be wise to depend totally upon God. He is our Provider. He is our Source and He is all we need.

Let's Pray
Father, I can be so greedy! Please forgive me when I live as though You cannot provide my every need. Help me to walk by faith, knowing that You love me fiercely and will take care of me fully. You are my Father, my God ... my Provider! Thank You!

In Jesus' name,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
Do you really see God as your Provider, the One who stands ready to meet every need you will ever have?  Does your life reflect the promise that God is enough?

Think back to the times when God met your needs. Record each experience in your Victory Journal. And if you don't have a Victory Journal, today would be a great time to start keeping one. Make a habit of searching for and keeping a record of God's provision in your life. 

Read and memorize Luke 12:15. "Jesus said to them, "Be careful and guard against all kinds of greed. Life is not measured by how much one owns" (ICB).

More from the Girlfriends
Our son attended college in a small South Carolina town filled with antique stores and family owned businesses. One store in particular caught my eye as we drove into town for the first time. The message painted on the storefront windows said it all, "If we ain't got it, you don't need it!" How true! God holds everything we need in the palm of His hand. He is our Provider. Amen!

Need help? Summer vacation is almost over! Get ready for the new school year by reading Mary's book, Escaping the Stress Trap, for ways to walk in peace.   

Join women from across the world in Mary's Online Bible Study, Light for the Journey. Sandpaper People is the current series and will help you discover ten ways to deal with the "sandpaper people" in your life - you know - the ones that rub you the wrong way. When you enroll, you also have access to all of the 2010 studies. Check it out!

Need a friend? Connect with me on Facebook or through email. I love 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 27, 2010
Jesus' Celestial Day-Timer
Sharon Jaynes

Today's Truth
"Now he [Jesus] had to go through Samaria" (John 4:4 NIV).

A Closer Look
I have to tell you, the story of Jesus talking to the Samaritan woman at the well is one of the most exciting passages in the Bible for me.  It is filled with hope for all women who feel abused, misused, and forgotten. It is for all women who have tried everything and everyone to fill the void in their hearts, but still hear the echo of emptiness ringing in their hollow souls.

I hope you read my last devotion, "Meeting the man of Your Dreams."  If you didn't, go back and read it before you read this one.  You can find it on our archives at www.girlfriendsinGod.com. I want you to feel the length and the depth of the words of this story.  You see, this is the longest recorded conversation between Jesus and any one single person in the entire New Testament...and it was with a woman. 

The shortest route from Judea to Galilee lay on a high road straight through Samarian territory, but the Jews routinely crossed the Jordan River and took the long way around to avoid going through the towns of the despised Samaritans.   Jews avoided Samaritans like the plague...literally.  Like a quarantined hospital room, the Jews kept their distance.

So it wasn't because of geography that Jesus "had to go through Samaria."  Oh no.  He had to go through Samaria because His Father told him to. As Jesus reminded the disciples many times, he only did what his Father told him to do (John 5:30; 6:38; 8:26; 9:4; 10:37-38; 12:49-50). 

Jesus had to go to Samaria because of divine destiny.  Another translation states, "Jesus had a need to go to Samaria" (KJV).  He was there on special assignment. It was not a coincidence or causal meeting, but a "deliberate, intentional, and calculated decision on the part of the Savior of the world to go meet with her."  You see, there was a woman in Samaria who had been used and abused all her life. And now, God reached down from His throne and chose her for such a time as this. While she felt that she was damaged goods, fit for no one, God chose her as His special spokesperson for an entire town.  And He sent His own Son to commission her for ministry.

So Jesus "had" to go, not because of geography, but because of what His Dad wrote in His celestial day-timer. And while the disciples went shopping for groceries, Jesus waited patiently for his assignment to come to him.

While most women went to the well to draw water for their daily use in the cool of the morning or late in the evening, this woman went at high noon. The scorching sun of high noon was a small price to pay in order to avoid being snubbed by the other women in the town.  She preferred the heat of the sun to the cold shoulders of the women. So while the women gathered for girlfriend time at the well early in the morning, this particular woman waited until they had returned to their safe havens in order to find safety of her own.

When Jesus asked her for a drink, he didn't demand it of her.  He never does.  He simply asks. But the fact that he even asked was radical.  Men did not talk to women in public in this culture. Jewish men didn't talk to Samaritan women at all.  And for a Jew to drink from a Samaritan's cup was unheard of.  Jews considered Samaritans unclean, and to drink from a Samaritan's cup would in turn make them unclean.  Jesus wasn't concerned in the slightest, for it is only by drinking from his cup that any of us could ever be clean to begin with.

Jesus spoke to her directly and respectfully.  This was no doubt radically different from any other Jewish man she had come in contact with. Don't for one minute think that her nationality and gender were happenstance. They were both intentionally chosen by our very intentional God - just another example that God's plan to set the captives free was for all who would believe.

Let's Pray
Dear Heavenly Father.  Thank You that Jesus "had" to go to Samaria to set a woman free.  Thank You that Jesus "had to" come to a simple woman like me to set me free as well.  Thank You for writing my name in Jesus' celestial day-timer...that He reached down and saved me, redeemed me, and now uses me to share His message of redemption.
In Jesus' Name,
Amen

Now It's Your Turn
Have you ever felt like the Samaritan woman at the well?  Like no one wanted to be around you?

Just think about how risky it was for Jesus to have this conversation with her. 

What do you think would have happened if the disciples had been there?

Check out the story again and notice when the disciples showed up. (John 4:25-30)

What does that tell you about God's timing?

Has there been time in your life when God's timing just amazed you?  I'd love to hear about it.  Log onto www.facebook.com/sharonjaynes and share your experience! 

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. Read this book and 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 30, 2010   

Yes, Jesus Loves Me! 

Mary Southerland

Today's Truth
Matthew 19:14 "Jesus said, 'Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these. '"

Friend to Friend
I believe that much of our stress is the result of a constant and innate quest to be loved and to love. The problems come when we look in the wrong places for love. When we know God, we know love. When we experience His unconditional love, we are then freed and empowered to love ourselves and others. I have personally discovered that it is just downright frustrating and completely impossible to live the Christian life when you are not a Christian. I tried.

For years, I desperately struggled to be a Christian with only head knowledge of who God was and wanted to be in my life. The result was a pitifully shallow existence with stress and frustration as my constant companions.

I grew up in a Christian home, attending church every time the doors were open. I sang all the right songs, spoke all the right words and did all the right things in front of all the right people. I fervently prayed that my works would validate my faith and desperately hoped that by following the rules, I would please the Ruler. It was not until middle school that the spiritual integrity of a dynamic youth pastor made me hunger and thirst for something more. I wanted to know God. I needed to experience the unconditional love of God. 

During a special Saturday evening church service, I sat in my usual spot, clutching the back of the pew in front of me while wrestling with God over the condition of my soul and my eternal security. After all, I was a very active church member, a soloist and pianist for our worship services, and even directed a children's choir. How embarrassing to walk down that aisle, admitting to everyone that I'd been living a lie.

My mind argued that I knew all about God - and then the deeper truth of that argument hit me. Yes, I knew about Him but I didn't know Him. His perfect love settles for nothing less than an intimate and loving relationship with his children.

That night I met Jesus! I surrendered all that I knew about myself to all that I knew about Him. While the course of my life was changed forever, I quickly discovered that I still had to deal with life on a daily basis and still had to face stressful situations. The difference was that God's love preceded me, surrounded and sustained me as I lived each day. Knowing we are loved fosters contentment and peace in our hearts, and when our hearts are filled with peace, there is little room for stress. 

One of the highlights of my day is when our 13 month-old-grandson is getting ready for bed. No, it is not his favorite time of the day, but his mom has a routine that works well. She gives Justus a bath, during which he absolutely soaks every square inch of the bathroom. His squeals of laughter and loud splashes can be heard by everyone in the house. Danna then wraps him in a big, fluffy towel and brings him to everyone so that they can see the "clean baby" and give him a goodnight kiss. Next come lotion and pajamas followed by "bah" which means, "It's time to read a book." The light in his room is then dimmed, the musical fish sing and dance across the ceiling ... and Justus settles down in his crib with Elmo in one hand and his blanket in the other, falling fast asleep within seconds. In a perfect world - which this is not - that scenario is played out every night.

However, on nights when Justus does not feel well, or needs a few extra hugs, Danna will ask me if I would like to rock him. I know. It is a rotten job but somebody has to do it! I scoop that precious little man into my arms and we settle into the rocker in his room. As we rock, I sing to him. I have quite a repertoire of "Mimi" ballads, but when I start to sing "Jesus Loves Me," Justus always looks up at me with his big brown eyes and gets very still and quiet until the song is finished. I put him in his crib and he usually does go right to sleep. However, last night, it was a different story.

Danna has been teaching Justus sign language and one of his favorite words to sign is "more." When I finished singing and started to get up, Justus stretched out his little hands and signed "more." Did I sit back down and sing some more? Do birds fly? Do fish swim?

With tears streaming down my face, I sang "Jesus Loves Me" until he was sound asleep. I sat in the rocker, just holding him, thinking about how very much I love this baby boy. In that quiet moment, the Holy Spirit whispered to my heart, "Mary, Jesus loves you, too." As Justus and I rocked a few minutes longer, the stress of the day melted away and I revisited the moment I met Jesus and first experienced His unchanging love. That quiet celebration filled my heart and left no room for anything but the love of God.

Yes, Jesus loves me, and He loves you, too. 

Let's Pray
Father, I come to You, thanking You for the love You have given me through the life and death of Your Son, Jesus Christ. Please help me to walk in that love every day with the faith of a child.

In Jesus' name,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn

Right now, wherever you are, let the words of this simple song lead you in a quiet celebration of God's love for you.

Jesus loves me, this I know.
For the Bible tells me so.
Little ones to Him belong.
They are weak but He is strong.

Yes, Jesus loves me.
Yes, Jesus loves me.
Yes, Jesus loves me.
The Bible tells me so.

More from the Girlfriends
When we experience the love of God, everything changes. Our prayer for you today is that you know God and walk in His love for you. If you have questions and are seeking God, check out our website at www.girlfriendsingod.com.

Need help? Summer vacation is almost over! Get ready for the new school year by reading Mary's book, Escaping the Stress Trap. You will discover a step-by-step plan found in Psalm 23 that will help you walk in peace.

Join women from across the world in Mary's Online Bible Study, Light for the Journey. Sandpaper People is the current series and will help you discover ten ways to deal with the "sandpaper people" in your life - you know - the ones that rub you the wrong way. When you enroll, you also have access to all of the 2010 studies. Check it out!

FREE MP3s Check out these free MP3s from Mary. I Love a Good Plan and Getting Past Your Past.

Need a friend? Connect with me on Facebook or through email. I love 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 31, 2010   

May She Rest in Peace 

Mary Southerland

Today's Truth
Isaiah 26:3-4 (ICB) "You, Lord, give true peace. You give peace to those who depend on you. You give peace to those who trust you. So, trust the Lord always. Trust the Lord because he is our Rock forever."

Friend to Friend
We often associate the phrase "rest in peace" with death and the loss of a loved one. In fact, these words of comfort are often spoken at some point in most funerals I attend or are included in the inscription on many headstones.

Today, I want us to associate the words "rest in peace" with life instead of death.

Yes, God sent His Son, Jesus Christ, to die for our sin so that we can rest in peace when we die, but God also gave His one and only Son so that we can rest in peace every minute of every day. Does that sound like your life? Would the people who know you best describe you as a peaceful person? As I ask myself that question, the words "not so much" come to mind.

The Mayo Clinic once stated that the illnesses in 80 to 85% of their caseload were caused by stress. An article in a leading medical journal entitled "Is Stress the Cause of All Disease?" said that at the beginning of the century, bacteria were the leading cause of illness but today stress has replaced bacteria. 

We all long for an inner calm - especially in the valleys of life. We all want, pray for and pursue peace. At the point of desperation, some people pursue peace by numbing their pain with alcohol, drugs, sex ... food ... success ... the list is endless. Remember the old country song that says we look for love in all the wrong places and on the wrong faces? The same can be said about peace.

Some people tend to believe that peace is simply the absence of problems, valleys and trials. Not so! Peace is a calm confidence that the Lord of the mountains is still on the throne - no matter how deep the valley may be. Peace recognizes Jesus walking on the water as He calms the crashing waves and stills the howling winds in your life. Trials become opportunities to trust God when peace reigns in a heart. That kind of peace can only be found in God.

Notice that I did not say we can find peace in church membership, in doing good things, in giving large sums of money to a charity or ministry, or even in being a really good person. Peace is a gift. When we enter into a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, we enter into true peace. 

Romans 5:1 (NCV) "Since we have been made right with God by our faith, we have peace with God. This happened through our Lord Jesus Christ."

We cannot bargain for or earn peace, girlfriends, but we will experience peace when we are willing to move away from our sin toward the Prince of Peace, Jesus Christ, in a personal relationship. Then, and only then, will His peace become our peace.

When John Paton was translating the Bible for a South Seas Island tribe, he discovered that they had no word for peace. One day, a native who had been running very hard for several miles came to the missionary's house, flopped down into a large chair and tried to catch his breath. "It's good to rest my whole weight on this chair" the runner said. Paton thought for a minute before replying, "I'll translate peace as the result of resting one's whole weight on God." Exactly!

We hear from so many women across the world who would give everything they have for just one minute of peace. I know the list of trials and storms is long. I honestly do not know how some people get out of bed each morning to face the trials and hard times in their life. I understand that the problems we deal with every single day can weigh us down; but I also know that every problem can be given to God. When we surrender the weight of our trials and pain to Him, we will experience peace. As we allow God to carry the weight of worry, the burden of anxiety and the penalty of every sin in our life, peace will reign and leave no room for the deadly trap of stress. Today, girlfriend, I pray that you will rest in Peace.

Let's Pray
Father, it seems that anxiety and doubt are constant companions right now. This valley seems so deep and so dark. By faith, I choose to trust You, my Shepherd. I am so tired, Father. Will You please carry me? I cannot see what is ahead. Will You please guide me? I am discouraged and ready to quit. Will You please be my strength? I love You and want to please You with my life.  Empower me to be all You created me to be. 

In Jesus' name,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
Memorize Hebrews 13:6 and ask the Holy Spirit to let the truths of this verse sink into every corner of your heart and soul:

Hebrews 13:6 (NIV) "So we can say with confidence, "The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?" 

As you spend time with God today, read and affirm the following commitment in your heart and life:


I recognize God as the only source of true peace. 
I now completely surrender my valley to God. 
I confess any known sin and turn from it. 
I choose to rest in Him.

Let's go a little deeper today. Complete the statements below as you make a new commitment to God. Record it in your journal. Date it and sign it. When the next trial comes - and it will come - go back and read the decision you made today, and while your circumstances may have changed, God is the same.

I have tried to find peace in_____________________________. 

The valley I am facing today is __________________________. 

Until today, my response to this valley has been to _________________________.

I now turn it all over to God and choose to rest in Him, the Shepherd of my every valley.

I would love to hear about the decision you made today concerning peace. Connect with me on Facebook or through email. I love hearing what God is doing in your life!

Need help? Summer vacation is almost over! Get ready for the new school year by reading Mary's book, Escaping the Stress Trap. You will discover a step-by-step plan found in Psalm 23 that will help you walk in peace.     

FREE MP3s Check out these free MP3s from Mary. I Love a Good Plan and Getting Past Your Past.

Join women from across the world in Mary's Online Bible Study, Light for the Journey. Sandpaper People is the current series and will help you discover ten ways to deal with the "sandpaper people" in your life - you know - the ones that rub you the wrong way. When you enroll, you also have access to all of the 2010 studies. Check it out!

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]

September 1, 2010
If You Only Knew 

Sharon Jaynes

Today's Truth
"If you only knew the gift God has for you and who I am, you would ask me, and I would give you living water" (John 4:10 New Living Translation).

Friend to Friend
What happens when someone says to you, "If you only knew"?  I don't know about you, but it makes me want to know.  Jesus spoke those same enticing words to the gal with the empty bucket he met at a well in Samaria.  He was engaging her and inviting her to draw water from the springs of life.  He was stirring her curiosity.

While she focused on drawing physical water, Jesus continued drawing her closer to living water.  The water in Jacob's well would alleviate physical thirst temporarily.  The water in Jesus' well would quench spiritual thirst eternally.  Jesus' living water would fill this empty woman with overflowing joy.

So she asked him, "Give me this water!"

Wait a minute.  Did she say, "Give me that water?"  Isn't that what Jesus asked from her?  As Jesus often does, He asks us to give him something only to offer something better in return. That is the very definition of redemption.

Jesus lifted the curtain on the story of her life and the acts of the saga were exposed before her. Count them 1-2-3-4-5.  Five husbands plus one extra.  We don't know why she had been divorced five times.  In those days, a man could divorce his wife if she went outside the home with her hair unbound or even spoke to a man in public.  He could divorce her if she burned the bread or he decided that he just didn't like her any more.  It didn't take much, but whatever the reasons, this was a woman who had been abused, misused, and tossed away by men she had trusted and loved.


This also gives us a hint that she was not a young woman.  It takes time to experience that much rejection.  No doubt the years of heartache and broken dreams were etched on her sun-scorched face.  Like the rising bucket full of hope from the well of each new marriage, her dreams spilled out on the parched grounds of divorce - five times.  Her longing for love left her empty and led her to yet another poor decision - man number six.

Jesus spoke to her of her past without a hint of condemnation or rejection in his voice.  As a matter of fact, he applauded her honesty.  He moved the conversation to a personal level, and took one step closer to the heart of the matter ... the matter of the heart.  Jesus always moves the conversation to a personal level when He is about to set someone free.  And He was rattling the prison keys.   

What do we do when confronted with such naked truth about ourselves?  We often try to change the subject.  That's exactly what this woman did.  She wanted to get the spotlight off of her and onto some theological or religious debate.  "Let's don't talk about me," she seemed to say.  "Let's talk about religion.  What about the poor people in third world countries who have never heard the gospel?  How can God allow bad things to happen to good people?  What about other religions?  Let's talk about that."

Jesus always brings the subject back to me ... to you.  That's what is important to Him.  Jesus answered her question by explaining that God is more interested in how we worship than where we worship.  He is more concerned with our relationship with Him than our religious practices. And friend: that is what He wants from all of us.  God is not impressed with religion.  Jesus wasn't impressed with the Pharisees.  What God wants is to enter into a personal on-going relationship with us through His Son.

Would you say that you have a religion in your life, or that you have a personal relationship with Jesus?  I'm going to leave us by the well to think about that for the rest of the day.  We'll join Jesus and the Samaritan woman in my next devotion. 

Let's Pray
Dear LORD, forgive me when I get off track and start acting all religious.  Forgive me when I focus on religious activities more than my relationship with You.  I love you, Jesus.  My greatest desire is to draw closer to You.

In Jesus' Name,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
Would you say you have a religion or a relationship with Christ?

Would you say you feel more comfortable working for God or spending time with God?

Which do you think God really wants from you?  I'd love to hear your answer.  Visit www.facebook.com/sharonjaynes and share your thoughts.

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.  Read this book and 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]

September 2, 2010 

When I Fall Down 

Mary Southerland

Today's Truth
Psalm 91:1-2 (NIV) "He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, 'He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.'"

Friend to Friend
I had forgotten just how amazing the process of learning to walk really is until our youngest grandchild recently reminded me. Justus was a speed crawler who could scoot along the floor almost as fast as I could walk and seemed content to explore the bottom of tables and chairs, play with doorstops or inspect flecks of lint, food crumbs and the floor at close range. For the first twelve months of his life, that was enough.

However, the day came when he was no longer satisfied to explore his world from the vantage point of his two little hands and knees and began pulling up on various pieces of furniture. Evidently he liked what he saw because he soon grew tired of just being upright and quickly graduated to the "One Step" method of walking.

Throughout the day, Justus repeatedly and carefully pulled himself up on the living room sofa. Next came the toddler shuffle as he tentatively positioned his stout and very determined little thirteen-month-old body between the sofa and loveseat. Pausing to catch his breath and gather his courage, Justus longingly stared at his goal, the armrest of the loveseat. His big brown eyes seemed to measure the size of the step he would have to take in order to reach his final destination and thus, master that long-held toddler tradition of cruising the furniture.

Eventually, he would let go of the sofa cushion, take "a step" and quickly grab hold of the loveseat. Most of the time, this brave little man then looked over his shoulder at whoever happened to be watching, a huge grin lighting up his face and the room. That was the cue for applause. And believe me, we always applauded. Yes, the "One Step" method of walking served Justus well - until he decided that what he wanted was not anywhere near the sofa or loveseat - and a new strategy was required.

I can imagine his little heart beating with excitement and fear as he realized the profound ramifications of his next move. He had to completely let go of that sofa and loveseat and walk where he had never been - into thin air - with no safety net.

And then it happened. Justus let go and took a step ... then another and another! We held our breath as we watched this special little boy actually walk for the very first time in his life. When he wobbled and fell to the floor, our daughter instinctively reached out to catch her precious child. He didn't see her at first, but when he looked up ... there she was. She had been nearby, watching the whole time. Justus looked into her eyes. Danna squealed with joy, grabbed Justus in a fierce hug and twirled him around the room, laughing and yelling, "Good job! You did it! You walked, honey!" My husband and I joined in the celebration, clapping and cheering along with our daughter. Justus decided that his accomplishment must be worthy of praise and he began to clap as well. In fact, he was so excited that he fell to the floor, kicking, laughing and clapping.  It was both hilarious and profound.

Have you ever felt like you have taken the step God wanted you to take only to find yourself dangling in thin air with no safety net in sight? I have. I don't like it. I want to know what is just ahead and see what is around the next corner of life. It frightens me to take risks. I wonder if God will really be there and come through for me the way He says He will in the Bible. Can I really do what God is asking me to do? Will He be pleased by my seemingly insignificant step of faith? And what happens if I fall? Falling is painful and something I try to avoid whenever possible.

I have great news for you, girlfriend! God is near. His eyes are set on you and His heart delights in your very existence as His daughter. If you listen carefully, you just might hear Him applauding that one tiny step of faith you were willing to take as you walked straight through your fear. God is fully aware of where you are and what you need. Heaven is not in a panic. And when you fall, you can rest assured your Father will be there to hold you in His arms of love and strengthen you for every step of your journey.

Let's Pray
Lord Jesus, I want to see and know You as the loving and caring Father that You are. Thank You for Your faithfulness in my life. I praise You for Your unconditional love that gives me hope when life looks hopeless. Thank You for never leaving me to live in my own strength. Today, I celebrate the truth that I am Your child and when I fall, You will be there.

In Jesus' name,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
Read and memorize Psalm 91:1-2 (NIV) "He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, "He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust."

Look at the action words in these two verses. What would those actions mean or look like in a life that chose to trust God even when times are hard? For example:

Action word:  dwells

Means: If I stay under the protection of God (Most High) I will find rest and a shelter from the storms I face in life. God protects me through His Word, through prayer and the ministry of others. I need to constantly be looking for God - even when things are falling apart. What is God trying to show me? What lesson do I need to learn? Do I need to change the direction in which I am headed? Do I need to wait to make a decision until I have God's peace and rest?

If you are facing a difficult time, I encourage you to begin keeping a journal. It can become your victory journal as you look for and see God at work in your life.

More from the Girlfriends
Yes! We are living in tough times, but instead of allowing the giants to defeat me, I am asking God to let the giants in my life fall. Everyone laughed at David for taking on Goliath. "Look how big he is" they taunted. But I can just see David laughing right back with "I know! Isn't it great? He's too big to miss!"

Need help? I can't believe I am even writing these words, but the holidays are just around the corner! I can already feel the faint stirrings of holiday stress. If you want to find God's answer for stress, you want to buy my book, Escaping the Stress Trap, for steps you can take to help you learn to manage stress instead of allowing it to manage you.   

Check out Mary's FREE MPs or visit her online store for great deals on books, CDs,

E-Bible Studies and be sure to check out Mary's DVD, Strength for the Storm.

Join women from across the world in Mary's Online Bible Study, Light for the Journey. Sandpaper People is the current series and will help you discover ten ways to deal with the "sandpaper people" in your life - you know - the ones that rub you the wrong way. When you enroll, you also have access to all of the 2010 studies. Check it out!

Need a friend? Connect with me on Facebook or through email. I love hearing what God is doing in your life! Let's talk about it, girlfriend! 

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]

September 3, 2010 

Mary-the Daring Disciple 

Sharon Jaynes

Today's Truth
"Martha, Martha," the Lord answered, "You are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed.  Mary has chosen what is better and it will not be taken away from her: (Luke 10:41-42 NIV)

Friend to Friend
Mary and Martha lived in a home with their brother, Lazarus, in the small Judean village of Bethany.  Their home served as a safe haven and quiet retreat for Jesus as He traveled from place to place.  Today, let's join Jesus at His first visit in their home.  The welcome mat is freshly swept, the aroma from the kitchen is wafting from the windows, and the chatter from the group of men lets us know that friends are within.  But Jesus is serving up something extra special for the girls ...

Mary and Martha were busy in the kitchen making dinner for their honored guest and his friends.  "Mary, check on the roasting lamb," Martha called among the clattering of the pots and pans.  "And where's the wine?  The bread must be kneaded in fifteen minutes.  There's just so much to do!"

"I'll take a bowl of fresh dates into the guests," Mary said.  "That will give them something to nibble on while we finish the preparations."

As Mary entered the room, she heard Jesus talking about the kingdom of God, the plan of redemption, the fulfillment of prophecy, the forgiveness of sins, and eternal life. 

"Do not judge; and you will not be judged," Jesus taught.  "Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned.  Forgive and you will be forgiven.  Give; and it will be given to you."

"The kingdom of God is like a mustard seed, which a man took and planted in his garden," He continued.  "It grew and became a tree, and the birds of the air perched in its branches."

Jesus noticed Mary standing in the doorway and motioned for her to enter.  Looking directly at her, He continued. "The kingdom of God is like yeast that a woman took and mixed into a large amount of flour until it worked all through the dough."

Jesus continued teaching about who he was, and what he came to do.  Mesmerized by the Rabbi's words, Mary sank to the floor and sat right at the Master's feet with the others.  The men shifted uncomfortably in their places, but Jesus lowered his eyes and began speaking directly to Mary - his newest student. 

The disciples waited for Jesus to send Mary back into the kitchen where she belonged, but He didn't.  They were confused when Jesus welcomed her into the classroom, but tried their best not to become distracted by her presence.  After all, women were not allowed to sit and learn from a Rabbi's teaching.  They weren't even allowed to join men in such a gathering at all.

Twenty minutes passed when Martha huffed, "where is that girl!" 

Martha angrily stomped into the gathering room with mixing bowl in hand.  All eyes turned toward the frustrated sister as she interrupted Jesus and pointed her wooden spoon in Mary's direction.

"Lord," she began sternly, "can't you see that Mary has left me all alone in the kitchen.  What does she think she's doing?  Don't You care that I have to do all this work by myself while my irresponsible sister is out here lollygagging about with the men.  Why she's not even supposed to be out here at all.  It isn't proper for a woman to join a room full of men, much less sit at a rabbi's feet while he's teaching.  Put her in her place!  Tell her to get back in the kitchen this instant!"

The men turned their head from Jesus to the red-faced Martha and back to Jesus again.

"Martha, Martha," Jesus replied, "don't get so worked up.  Mary is right where she needs to be.  You are so worried, bothered, and distracted with the details of living that you miss the joys of life.  You don't need to work so hard to create a feast for us.  That's not even important.  What is important is that I am here and I have something to share with you.  Mary has figured that out.  She has chosen what is important and I am not going to send her away.  She has joined the classroom to learn - to become a disciple of God's Word - and I am not going to take that away from her.

Martha put her flour-covered hand on her hip, spun around on her heels, and marched back into the kitchen.  "Well, I never," she mumbled as she stomped away.

Let's Pray
Dear LORD, Thank You for welcoming me into Your classroom.  Thank You for elevating women all through the New Testament and even today.  I want to be one of Your top students!  Thank You for swinging the doors wide open for me to become one of Your disciples.

In Jesus' Name,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
I hope you enjoyed my re-telling of the story of Martha in the kitchen and Mary in the classroom.  My hope is that you'll see them as real flesh and blood women just like you and me.  What makes this story so radical for its day is that women were not allowed to eat with men in such a gathering, and women were not allowed to be taught by a Rabbi.  With that in mind, what was Jesus showing the disciples and Martha by His actions?

What does that say to you, as a woman?

How does the fact that Jesus defended and welcomed Mary encourage you?

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. Read this book and 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