Girlfriends in God

[Judy Harder]

March 9, 2011
He Loves You No Matter What
Sharon Jaynes

Today's Truth
"For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord" (Romans 8:38-39 NIV).

Friend to Friend
Most of us live in a world of performance-based acceptance.  We make good grades and mommy is proud.  We look pretty and daddy smiles. We do a good job at work and the boss is pleased. We serve at church and congregation thinks we are "good Christians."

Unfortunately that same sense of having to perform well to be accepted by people can easily roll over into our relationship with God. We falsely believe that we must perform well to be loved and accepted by Him, when nothing could be further from the truth. As a result, we strive to obtain something that we already have...God's unconditional love.

Anabel Gillham was a woman who loved God, but had trouble accepting that God could love her. Sure, she knew the Bible verses that talked of God's unconditional love for her. And yet she knew herself and doubted a God who knew her innermost thoughts would approve of her.

Then God used a very special person to help Annabel understand the depths of His love for her – her second child, Mason David Gilham, who was profoundly retarded.  Let's let Anabel tell you her story.

I never doubted for a moment that Jesus loved that profoundly retarded little boy.  It didn't matter that he would never sit with the kids in the back of the church and on a certain special night walk down the aisle, take the pastor by the hand, and invite Jesus into his heart.  It was entirely irrelevant that he could not quote a single verse of Scripture, that he would never go to high school, or that he would never be a dad.  I knew that Jesus loved Mason.

What I could not comprehend, what I could not accept, was that Jesus could love Mason's mother, Anabel.  You see, I believed that in order for a person to accept me, to love me, I had to perform for him. My standard for getting love was performance-based, so I "performed" constantly, perfectly. In fact, I did not allow anyone to see me when I was not performing perfectly. I never had any close friends because I was convinced that if a person ever really got to know me, he wouldn't like me.

Mace could never have performed for his parent's love, or for anyone's love, but oh, how they loved him.  His condition deteriorated to such a degree-and so rapidly-that they had to place him in an institution when he was very young. His parents enrolled him in the Enid State School for Mentally Handicapped Children. They drove regularly 120 miles to see him but occasionally also brought him home for a visit.

On one particular visit, Mace had been with them since Thursday evening. On the following Saturday afternoon God painted a vivid picture of His great love for Anabel through Mason. She was standing at the kitchen sink, dreading what lay ahead. In just a few moments, she would be gathering Mace's things together and taking him back to "his house." She had done this many times before-and it was never easy-but today God had something in mind that would change her life forever.

"I stood up to the sink again," she continued. "More dishes, more washing, more crying – and thoughts, foreign to my way of thinking, began filtering into my conscious awareness.  I believe God spoke to me that day, and this is what He said: "Anabel, you don't look at your son and turn away in disgust because he's sitting there with saliva drooling out of mouth; you don't shake your head, repulsed because he has dinner all over his shirt or because he's sitting in a dirty, smelly diaper when he ought to be able to take care of himself. Anabel, you don't reject Mason because all of the dreams you had for him have been destroyed. You don't reject him because he doesn't perform for you. You love him, Anabel, just because he is yours. Mason doesn't willfully reject your love, but you willfully reject Mine. I love you, Anabel, not because you're neat or attractive, or because you do things well, not because you perform for Me but just because you're Mine."

And friend, that's exactly how God feels about you.  He loves you just because you're His.

Let's Pray
Heavenly Father, thank You for loving me unconditionally.  You love me when I perform well, and when I fall flat on my face. Help me to love others the same.

In Jesus' Name,

Amen

Now It's Your Turn
Do you ever feel that God loves you more when you perform well?

I'm guessing you said, "Yes."  So tell me, what is wrong with that way of thinking?

More From the Girlfriends
Today's devotion was taken from Sharon's new book, 5 Dreams of Every Woman and How God Wants to Fulfill Them(a new revised version of her previous book, Dreams of a Woman). Can you risk the hope that God still has dreams for your life? That He hasn't forgotten you?  Place your hand firmly in His-take a deep breath and begin the exciting journey to a place you thought you'd never find: the dream God planned for you all along. Let's dare to dream 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




March 10, 2011
Will God Really Come Through?
Mary Southerland

Today's Truth
"The LORD says, 'I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you'" (Psalm 32:8, NLT).

Friend to Friend
When our daughter, Danna, was a toddler, she and her daddy had a favorite game. Dan would place her in some high spot then stand back, hold up his arms and say, "Jump to Daddy!" I hated this game but Danna loved it and always jumped into Dan's arms, laughing and giggling. But one day, Dan put her in a spot that Danna thought was just a little too high. She did what I do when I get scared. She closed her eyes. When Dan ordered her to jump, Danna wailed, "I can't! I can't see you, Daddy!" Dan softly responded, "It doesn't matter, baby. I can see you!" With a smile on her scrunched up face my daughter bailed off into the strong arms of her Father, secure in the knowledge that he would catch her - just as he always had.

The apostle Paul understood and lived by the truth that God is constantly at work in and around us, monitoring every circumstance. Paul writes in Philippians 4:10, "I rejoice greatly in the Lord that at last you have renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you have been concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it." There is a truth in this verse that is easy to miss - the truth that God is always at work around us. Paul's circumstances did not show that God was working, but Paul knew He was. Paul was secure in the belief that help was on the way, so he stood firm and began watching for God to show up.

Paul examined every circumstance, understanding that it had already passed through His Father's hands - with His permission. And God came through. To find real security and contentment we must learn to search for the handprints of God in the every day circumstances of life.

Life is not a series of accidents but a series of divine appointments made by our heavenly Father – each one designed to prove that He loves us and orchestrated to illustrate His provision for us. That interruption we complain about or that intrusion we resent may well be a window of opportunity sent by Him. God is our provider. The word "provider" comes from two Latin words: "pro" which means "before" and "video" which means "to see." In other words, God will take care of it beforehand. God caused the church at Philippi to become concerned about Paul's needs when Paul needed their love most. God always comes through when we need Him the most. It is a picture of the Good Shepherd meeting every need of every sheep.

John 10:4 (NLT) "After he has gathered his own flock, he walks ahead of them, and they follow him because they recognize his voice."

The Shepherd is always ahead of his sheep - out in front - which means that any attack upon the sheep has to take Him into account first. What peace and security we can have knowing that God has gone before us through every valley, across each mountain of life. He knows what tomorrow holds and will give us everything we need to face it. When we begin to understand and walk in the truth that God monitors every circumstance, we will walk in contentment – knowing that He really is in control.

You may find yourself in a frightening place filled with darkness and doubt. Your fragile heart may be wondering if God knows where you are. He does. You think that because you cannot see the hand of God or sense His presence, it means He is not working. Nothing could be further from the truth. We may not understand or even like His process, but God is always at work in our lives. Rest assured – God really is in control – and He will come through for you.

Let's Pray
Father, I confess that when the darkness comes and doubt invades, I sometimes complain that I don't understand and cannot see Your hand at work. Forgive me, Lord, for my demanding and faithless attitude. Forgive me for not trusting You and help me, by the power of Your Spirit, to trust You completely.

In Jesus' name,

Amen.

Now it's Your Turn
By faith, accept the truth that God is always at work in your life and thank Him for His steadfast provision. Look back over the last few days, weeks and months of your life.  Now praise Him for the things He has done.

Identify the people or things that you tend to think of and rely upon as sources of security and contentment in your life.

Read Proverbs 3:5-6. What are the steps listed in this passage that – when taken – will produce contentment?

What hedges of protection can you put in place today that will prepare you to face tomorrow with security and contentment?

More from the Girlfriends
When it comes right down to it, I really prefer that God be able to see me rather than insisting that I be able to see and understand Him. That is where faith comes in. Faith believes God is who He says He is ... and will do what He promises to do. And it only takes a tiny seed of faith to unleash the power of God in your life. Right now, exchange your fear and doubt for His peace and power in your life.

Need peace?The "Fear Factor" is not just a television show. Fear is a faithful companion in a world filled with broken people, many of whom live at the mercy of their fears. Mary's Bible Study, Getting a Grip on Fear, will help you discover God's plan for peace by identifying five ways to face and deal with fear.

It's not too late to enroll in Mary's weekly online Bible Study, How to Handle Hurtand have access to all of 2011 studies.

Need a friend?Connect with Mary on Facebookor through email.

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]

March 11, 2011

Accepting the Call

Gwen Smith

Today's Truth
"Jesus replied, "Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching" (John 14:23a, NIV).

Friend to Friend
There is a feature on my cell phone that allows me to decline an incoming call. There are a thousand reasons why I might choose to hit the "decline" button when my phone rings. Sometimes I am writing and have a deadline to make. Decline. Sometimes a call comes in when I'm mid-conversation with a friend or when I'm connecting with my family. Decline. At times, true confessions here, I decline a call simply because I don't want to talk to the person who's calling me at that moment. (C'mon, don't judge me.)

Similarly, there are times in my life when I try to ignore the promptings of the Holy Spirit as if I were declining a cell phone call. Times when I just don't feel like doing what I know God wants me to do. Times when I don't want to hear the still small voice that whispers to my soul: "forgive him" – "release your anger" – "humble yourself and ask for forgiveness" or "focus on my plan for you ... not on my plan for another person."

One such time took place a few years back. It was after the final session at a three-day ministry event, I was focused and fervent, determined to head home to my husband and three children as quickly as possible. I busied myself wrapping microphone chords, loading CDs from my resource table, and prepping to leave. While I was mid-busy, a friendly thirty-something woman I'd chatted with previously that weekend came up to me with her friend. I was courteous to them, but in a "see-you-later, girlfriend" kind of way.

Not getting my subtle clues, this woman inquired excitedly about the book I was in the middle of writing. I lifted my head with surprise as she announced, "I can't wait to read your book! Your enthusiasm for the Lord is so contagious, and I just know you have an amazing testimony!" Then she and her friend stood there expectantly. Decline.

Okay, feel my pain here. It is day three of a three-day event! I was exhausted. I was done. Yet this woman and her friend wanted to hear my testimony. So, I did what any normal fleshy woman would do. I told God, Not now, Lord. I'm going home. I've done what I came to do and now I'm going home to my family. I'm tired, slightly grumpy, definitely hungry, and done. I can't tell these girls about my abortion right now. Nope. Not going to go there. Please don't ask me to!

So I looked up at these two sweet women and, with a forced chuckle, said, "Yeah, I've got a doozy of a story, but don't we all? Thank God for grace."

There! Now they should leave me alone, I thought.

But God kept nudging my heart. Tell them, Gwen.

Before I had a chance to continue my dialog with the Lord, another couple of women came to join our conversation. I was so not amused.

God, are You kidding me? We are done here!

But He kept nudging.

So I finally conceded and shared my testimony with the six women who had gathered to speak to me. Within minutes, two of the six were crying. They'd had abortions as well and for years had lived under the weight of shame. We became a bonded band of blubbering sisters. The story of my redemption from brokenness and the beauty and healing I found in Christ had become a tool in the hands of God that afternoon. What had once been a wound became a weapon ... but only because I accepted the call. (Even if it did take me a while to concede.)

Jesus told his disciples that if they loved Him, they would obey His commands and His teachings (John 14:15-27). A simple if-then statement. If you love me, then you will obey. He also told them that when He returned to the Father in heaven, He would send the Holy Spirit to teach, to guide in truth, to convict of sin and to remind believers of what Jesus taught (John 16:7-14). To help us. To empower us.

The Spirit of God lives within every Christian. He equips us for each task as we yield to His leading. When God prompts us to do something on His behalf, He is faithful to lead the way and to bless our obedience – for His own glory. It's all about His glory. He simply wants our willingness and our obedience. Friend, His plans need to be our plans ... even if His plans sometimes seem to "interrupt" our plans. Let's be women who accept His call. Are you willing today?

Let's Pray
Dear Lord, Please forgive me for the times when I've chosen my plan over Your plan. Align my will to Yours and help me to express my love for You by obeying your Word and by responding to the promptings of Your Spirit.

In Jesus' Name,
Amen

Now It's Your Turn
Can you think of a time when you sensed that God was leading you to do something? How did you respond?

Is there something He is calling you to do today? Are you withholding forgiveness from someone? Are you aware of a need that God wants you to meet? Does He want you end a toxic relationship? Spend a few minutes in prayer about this.

More From the Girlfriends
God calls each of us to use our lives to point to His hope. Right before He ascended into heaven, Jesus said, "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." (Acts 1:8, emphasis added). That call—that commission—will look different for each of us. GiGs, what does this look like for you today? Let's talk about it on my Facebook page. Leave a comment or thought on my wall at www.facebook.com/GwenSmithMusic.

Portions of today's devotion are taken from Gwen's book, Broken Into Beautiful. Her full testimony is featured in the book, along with Scriptural truths and stories of how God has brought restoration the hearts of many other women who had painful life wounds. God delights to transform lives ... including your own. Experience God's healing and hope in your life today as you read Broken Into Beautiful! To order the book online, please visit Gwen's website.

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


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

[Judy Harder]

March 14, 2011

Some Things Never Change

Sharon Jaynes

Today's Truth
"Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good. His love endures forever!" (Psalm 136:1, NIV)

Friend to Friend
2002 was a year of transition for me.  I changed positions at the ministry where I served, my son packed up to go away to college, my thyroid went out of control and had to be purposely destroyed with radioactive iodide, my first book went out of print, the grocery store quit carrying my favorite coffee, and Revlon discontinued the eyeliner that I'd been using for ten years.  Like a little girl having a hissy fit, I whined, "Doesn't anything ever stay the same?  Isn't there one thing I can count on being the same tomorrow as it is today!

Then I heard that gentle whisper I've grown to love: "'Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed,' says the Lord, who has compassion on you" (Isaiah 54:10).

Yes, there is one thing that will never change, God's unfailing love and care for His children.  He is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow and on that we can always depend.  Solomon tells us the one thing each of us longs for is unfailing love (Proverbs 19:22). And that is exactly what we have in the love of our heavenly Father.

The word compassion in Isaiah 54:10 is the Hebrew word racham, which means "to soothe; to cherish; to love deeply like parents; to be compassionate, be tender...This verb usually refers to a strong love which is rooted in some kind of natural bond, often from a superior one to an inferior. (Now here's the best part.) Small babies evoke this feeling." (Beth Moore, Breaking Free: Making Liberty in Christ a Reality in Life (Nashville, Tenn.: Lifeway, 1999), 160.)

When my son, Steven, came into the world, a love was birthed in my heart that I never thought possible.  Elizabeth Stone said it well: "To make a decision to have a child, it's momentous.  It is to decide to have your heart go walking around outside of your body for the rest of your life."  That is how our Heavenly Father feels about His children!

The beautiful Hebrew word, hesed, is translated unfailing love in Isaiah 54:10.  It is often translated loving-kindness, steadfast love, grace, mercy, faithfulness, goodness, and devotion.  This word is used 240 times in the Old Testament and is considered one of the most important in the vocabulary of the Old Testament.  Why?  Because God's unfailing love is one of the most important themes of the entire Bible.  It is who He is and what He does (1 John 4:.

How would you like to memorize half of a psalm in the next sixty seconds?  Want to give it a try?  Turn to Psalm 136.  After each sentence, there is an echo, "His love endures forever."  Just say that sentence twenty-six times and you've quoted half of the Psalm! The Psalmist begins by reminding us of how God created the universe and all it contains. Then he continues by reminiscing how God led the captive Israelites out of Egypt, across the parted Red Sea, through the arid desert, and into the lush Promised Land conquering enemies at every turn.  And through it all, one thing remained the same – "His love endures forever!"

There may be times in our lives when we cry, "Where are you God?  Don't you care what is happening to me?  I can't hear You.  I can't see Your hand working in my life."  But be assured of this.  Even when we can't sense God's presence, He is always there.  Always.  And through it all, one thing remains the same – "His love endures forever!"

Let's Pray
LORD, today I am rejoicing over the truth that Your love endures forever.  Even though everything around me may be falling apart and changing, You will always remain the same yesterday, today and tomorrow!

In Jesus' Name,

Amen

Now It's Your Turn
Just for fun, list all the things that changed in your life in 2010.  This might take a while.

Now after each of those entries, go back and write the phrase: His love endures forever.

I know some GiGs do these devotions with their gal pals.  This would be a great exercise to do together.  Have fun!

I'd love to see your list.  You can share them with me at www.facebook.com/sharonjaynes.

More from the Girlfriends
Today's devotion was taken from Sharon's new book, 5 Dreams of Every Woman and How God Wants to Fulfill Them(a new revised version of her previous book, Dreams of a Woman). Can you risk the hope that God still has dreams for your life? That He hasn't forgotten you?  Place your hand firmly in His-take a deep breath and begin the exciting journey to a place you thought you'd never find: the dream God planned for you all along. Let's dare to dream 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]

March 15, 2011

From Tragedy to Triumph

Mary Southerland

Today's Truth
"These (trials) have come so that your faith – of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire – may be proved genuine and may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed" (1 Peter 1:7, NIV).

Friend to Friend
I am told that in the famous lace shops of Belgium there are certain rooms used for spinning the finest and most delicate designs of lace. Each room is completely dark – except for one small window. Through this tiny window, light shines directly on the work at hand. A solitary spinner works in the darkness, sitting where the narrow stream of light will fall on the delicate thread. The choicest pieces of lace, the most exquisite designs, are created when the worker is in the dark and only his work is in the light. When it comes to handling hurt, we often find ourselves sitting in the darkness of frustration and pain, wondering if anything good can possibly be salvaged from the broken pieces of our lives.

I will never forget the day I learned that God really can turn tragedy into triumph. I was sitting at my desk, working on an assignment from the counselor I had been seeing. For months, I had been wrestling with my past; slowly, methodically working through painful issues and buried memories that seemed to be feeding the clinical depression I was battling. As page after page filled with harsh realities, a memory slammed into my heart and mind.

The pain was overwhelming as a vile scene from my childhood slowly took shape. I could hardly breathe as I frantically tried to escape the certainty I had been molested. The perpetrator had been our family doctor and friend. He had even provided free medical treatment when we had not money to pay. I had trusted him, counted on him. As a nurse, my mother had worked beside this man every single day and often watched his children when he and his wife went out.

Anger unlike any I had ever known fueled violent thoughts of revenge and retaliation. I was angry with this man – and angry with God. How could He have let this happen? Where was the light in this dark place?

For months, I worked through painful memories and raging emotions until I saw the first glimmer of light. It was wrapped in chosen forgiveness. And I began to see that had I never been wounded so badly, I would never have been able to forgive so freely – and in doing so, discover a depth of healing and freedom only the greatest pain can produce. Today, I can honestly thank God for all He has accomplished in me through the sin of that man.

There are no accidents with God, nor is He surprised by anything or anyone in the life of His child. God uses even the most horrendous circumstances for our good. The same can be said of relationships. Every relationship – difficult or easy – comes to us for a purpose, wrapped in God's love and plan and faithfully delivered with His permission. The apostle Paul gives clear directions for the handling of these difficult relationships:

"Live in peace with each other. Encourage the timid, help the weak, be patient with everyone. Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always try to be kind to each other and to everyone else. Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus" (1 Thessalonians 5:13-18). It is only in God's economy that being thankful transforms tragedy into triumph.

Let's Pray
Father, I come into Your presence, choosing to believe that You are faithful and will do what You have promised to do in Your Word. I lay my pain at Your feet and surrender my hurt to You. Only You can ease my pain and restore my joy. Only You can turn the broken places of my life into living illustrations of Your sufficiency and power. I praise Your name, Lord, and choose to trust You today.

In Jesus' name,

Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
Do you really believe that an attitude of gratitude helps us measure our problems against the limitless power of God, turning stumbling blocks into stepping stones? Explain.

Read Psalm 43:4. "Then I will go to the altar of God, to God, my joy and my delight. I will praise you with the harp, O God, my God." What does it mean to "go to the altar of God" in dealing with hurt and pain in your life?

Read 1 Thessalonians 5:18. "Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." How does this verse apply to the way you handle hurt and pain in your life?

More from the Girlfriends
Only God can take the broken pieces of your life and make something beautiful out of each one. He is waiting for you to let go of your pain and trust Him. And you really can. No one loves you like He does. You may not always understand or even like His process, but you can always trust His heart of love for you!

Stressed out? Mary's Bible Study, God's Answer to Stress, is based on Psalm 23 and will help you learn how to control stress in your life instead of allowing stress to control you. Check it out!

Need a good laugh? Mary's MP3, Laugh More – Live Better, is a refreshing message filled with humor and Biblical principles that will help you learn how to celebrate life.

Need something for your pain? Enroll in Mary's weekly online Bible Study, How to Handle Hurtand learn how to face and deal with the pain in your life.

Need a friend?Connect with Mary on Facebookor through email.

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]

March 16, 2011

I'm Not Going to Beg Anymore

Sharon Jaynes

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

Friend to Friend
Cary and Madeline Rivers read about the overcrowded orphanages in Eastern Europe and God stirred their hearts to look into adoption.  Foreign adoptions are very costly, but God had blessed the couple financially and the cost was not prohibitive.  They decided to adopt, not one, two or three, but four children.  After eleven months and miles of red tape, the adoption process was complete and the couple traveled across the ocean to gather their new family.

The trip home was 22 hours, so when they arrived at the Atlanta, Georgia airport for a two-hour layover, the family decided to let the rambunctious boys run around the terminal to work out some of their pent-up energy.  Of course, they never let their new sons out of their sight.  After a short while, Madeline noticed one of the boys, watching a man drinking at a water fountain.   Even though the child could not speak English, he seemed to be using his hands and body language to communicate.  To Madeline's horror, the man reached in his pocket and handed her new son a dollar bill.

She rushed over to the man and asked, "What are you doing?"

"Well, I could tell this boy couldn't speak English, but I could also tell that he was begging.  So, I gave him a dollar."

The parents looked in the boy's pocket and he had ten one-dollar bills!  The little boy had no idea the riches that came with his adoption.  Even though he was now part of a family with great wealth, he continued to do what he had done all his life...beg.

Oh dear sister, do you see yourself in the little boy's eyes.  Are you begging for handouts when your daddy owns the "cattle on a thousand hills?"  Are you scavenging for crumbs when your heavenly Father provides "everything you need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness" (I Peter 1:3)?  Are you searching for acceptance and approval from others when God longs to lavish you with His?  Are you begging for what is already yours?

John wrote: "How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!" (I John 3:1).  To lavish is to give freely, profusely, extravagantly, and abundantly.  He doesn't give us everything we want when we want it.  No father wants spoiled children.  Rather, He gives us everything we need to become well-behaved children who bear His name well.

Let's Pray
Dear God, forgive me for acting like a spiritual pauper when I am a child of the King.  Open my eyes to see all that You have given me.

In Jesus' Name,

Amen

Now It's Your Turn
Look up and define the word "pauper."

Would you say you live like a child of the King or a spiritual pauper?

What would be the difference?

How would the child of a king live differently than a pauper?  Let's chat about that at www.facebook.com/sharonjaynes.

More from the Girlfriends
Today's devotion was taken from Sharon's new book, 5 Dreams of Every Woman and How God Wants to Fulfill Them(a new revised version of her previous book, Dreams of a Woman). Can you risk the hope that God still has dreams for your life? That He hasn't forgotten you?  Place your hand firmly in His-take a deep breath and begin the exciting journey to a place you thought you'd never find: the dream God planned for you all along. Let's dare to dream 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]

March 17, 2011

The Tool of Discouragement

Mary Southerland

Today's Truth
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart" (Proverbs 3:5, NIV).

Friend to Friend
It was advertised that the devil was putting his tools up for sale. When the day of the sale came, each tool was priced and laid out for public inspection. And what a collection it was. Hatred, envy, jealousy, deceit, pride, and lying ... the inventory was treacherous. Off to one side was a harmless-looking tool priced higher than all the rest, even though it was obviously more worn than any other tool the devil owned. "What's the name of this tool?" asked one of the customers. "That," the devil replied, "is discouragement." The customer asked, "But why have you priced it so high?" The devil smiled and explained, "Because discouragement is more useful to me than all the others. I can pry open and get inside a man's heart with that tool when I can't get near him with any other. It's badly worn because I use it on almost everyone, since so few people know it belongs to me."

The valleys in life are lined with disappointment and discouragement. Some people seem to thrive on adversity, emerging from their valley with greater strength and deeper faith. Others stumble and fall, giving in to discouragement and dropping out of the race. The difference in outcome is determined by the way we choose to handle discouragement.

We must respond to each valley with trust and faith. The word "trust" means "to lie helpless, face down" and is the picture of a servant waiting for his master's command or a soldier yielding himself to a conquering general. "Heart" refers to "the center of one's being." In other words, to trust God completely means that from the very center of our being, from the very core of our existence, we trust Him, totally abandoning ourselves in childlike faith to Him and His plan. We come to God, holding nothing in our hands, with one word in our heart – "whatever!" Whatever You want me to do, Lord, I will do. Whatever You want me to say, Lord, I will say. Whatever You want me to think, Lord, I will think. Whatever path You have for me, Lord, I will walk."

If you are like me, you sometimes think you don't have enough faith. The amount of faith is not nearly as important as the right kind of faith – faith in God alone. Faith does not rest on what we have done, but on what Christ has already done on the cross and in our lives. Faith builds on the victories of yesterday to help us face the valleys of today and the storms of tomorrow. Faith does not bypass pain. It does, however, empower us to deal with pain. Faith steps up to the bat and invites the opponent to throw his best pitch. Sometimes faith strengthens us, and other times, surprises us. Great faith is forged in the deepest valleys, beginning where our strength and power end.

I love the story of a missionary family, home on furlough and visiting friends. When it was time for dinner, the mother of the missionary children called her kids in. When her son burst through the door, she took one look at his hands and said, "Son, go wash those hands. They are dirty and covered in germs." With a scowl on his face, the little boy headed to the sink muttering, "Germs and Jesus! Germs and Jesus! That's all I hear about and I've never seen either one!" While we tend to say that seeing is believing, faith says that believing is seeing. Doubt creates mountains; faith moves them. Faith produces trust that shatters fear and leaves no room for discouragement.

Let's Pray
Father, I am so discouraged. Life is just not turning out like I thought it would. I have had so many disappointments and it seems like I face one valley after another. I need You and the hope that only You can give. Help me to trust You will all of my heart – not just part of it. Teach me how to walk by faith and not by sight. Today, I come to You with a "yes" in my heart for whatever You have planned for my life.

In Jesus' name,

Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
Read Hebrews 13:6 "We can say with confidence, 'The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?'"

·         What valley are you facing today?

·         What has been your response to that valley so far?

·         Are you willing to recognize God as the only source of true peace?

·         Are you ready to surrender your valley to God and trust Him to deliver you?

More from the Girlfriends
I know that many of you are discouraged and in pain. My first reaction is that of a mother – to do whatever I can to make that pain go away. But then I remember how God has taken the most painful parts of my life and used them for good. He really has. And I can tell you that no matter where you are, no matter how deep the pit may be, your God sees you and will deliver you. Don't quit! Don't give up! God is with you ... and so are we!

Stressed out? Mary's Bible Study, God's Answer to Stress, is based on Psalm 23 and will help you learn how to control stress in your life instead of allowing stress to control you. Check it out!

Need a good laugh? Mary's MP3, Laugh More – Live Better, is a refreshing message filled with humor and Biblical principles that will help you learn how to celebrate life.

Need something for your pain? Enroll in Mary's weekly online Bible Study, How to Handle Hurtand learn how to face and deal with the pain in your life.

Need a friend?Connect with Mary on Facebookor through email.

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]

March 18, 2011

An Uncluttered Woman

Gwen Smith 

Today's Truth
"But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well" (Matthew 6:33, NIV).

Friend to Friend
When I was a little girl, one of my favorite things to do was to twirl in the grass. With arms out stretched, I'd spin around and around until I was silly-dizzy, and then fall to the ground with a giggly heart. It was thrilling, invigorating and a fun and simple way to spend a lazy summer day in the rolling hills of southwestern Pennsylvania. Now that I'm older, I can't handle spinning in circles. My body rejects any twisty endeavor. Nausea quickly sets in and reminds me that I'm not a "spinny-girl" anymore.

A few years ago while my family and I were at an amusement park, in an effort to gain favor in the eyes of my kids and earn imaginary super mom points, I enthusiastically got on a ride that spins in circles. My hero-husband always goes on this type of ride with our children, so I thought, "If Brad can do it, then I can do it, right?"
           
What a joke!
           
I walked up the ramp to the wretched "Wheel of Whirl" naively optimistic and walked down the ramp having made a great big fool of myself. The park employee had to stop the ride to let me off. Bad decision. Yucky feelings followed. Instead of becoming super mom, I became super sick mom. My center of balance and my emotions were quickly thrown off leaving my poor family with the disenchanting consequences of my twirling ambitions.
           
Just like that day in the amusement park, I constantly find myself thrown off balance from the wheeling whirl-of-life clutter. Why? Simply put: I complicate my life.
           
If we're being honest – and I assure you, I'm all about straight talk – then I'd have to confess that I am one of my own biggest obstacles to living life as an uncluttered woman. I know that I should depend solely on God for direction and strength, but the simple fact is I often don't. Most of us would admit that this is the case. It is hard to sift through all that is thrown at us each day. Clutter happens and it challenges all of us. I'm in the trenches with you and readily admit that navigating this silly-dizzy world is difficult.

There are ten bazillion things that compete for our attention and clutter our faith: emotions, materialism, negative thinking, overbooked schedules, doubts, legalism, laziness, self-reliance, our past pains and failures, technology, work, our need to control things, finances, debt, stress,  addictions, discontentment and relationships. And I'm just getting started! This list could go on forever.

The Bible instructs us to direct our silly-dizzy days toward God. "Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and he will establish your plans" (Proverbs 16:3, NIV).

In His presence, God gives order to both our thoughts and our to-do lists. Everything changes when we seek Him first and commit our plans to Him. The journey to becoming an uncluttered woman is all about personal contact with Jesus. You and I will experience greater peace and deeper faith as we determine to respond to His constant invitation to come. But don't worry. Jesus is no stranger to clutter. He walked the same earth we do and dealt with the same struggles and problems we deal with. He loved many a cluttered woman while here on earth and many more before and since His ascension. He knows your clutter – your stuff – and He invites you to come just the same.
           
When we position ourselves in the presence of the Peace-giver and look to Him to lead and prioritize our heart matters, the uncluttering begins.

Let it begin.

Let's Pray
Dear God, Thanks for reminding me that I can always come to You and trade in my exhaustion for Your rejuvenation. Please bring order to my day and establish my priorities according to Your will. Teach me what it means to live a Spirit-led life and show me how to become an uncluttered woman.
In Jesus' name,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
What came to your mind as you read this devotion?

In Matthew 6:33, Jesus said, "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." What are you seeking first?

Are there activities, emotions, relationships, or thoughts in your life that need to be committed to the Lord? Spend a few moments in prayer and ask the Lord to establish your plans according to His will.

More from the Girlfriends
I think we all struggle with this one. BUT GOD – He loves to give us strength where we struggle. The title track of my newest CD is called Uncluttered. Since we've gone there devotionally, I'd really like to go deeper by exploring this topic musically. Please join me on my Facebook page right now and take a listen to Uncluttered. (www.facebook.com/GwenSmithMusic) Then write a few thoughts on my wall about where God is directing you in all of this.

SILLY-DIZZY? Check out Gwen's new CD, Uncluttered.The songs of Uncluttered are purposed to sweep you away from life-noise and to focus your heart and mind on the one thing that matters: your relationship with Jesus Christ.

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]

March 21, 2011

The Right Credentials

Sharon Jaynes

Today's Truth
"In Him and through faith in Him we may approach God with freedom and confidence (Ephesians 3:12, NIV). 

Friend to Friend
One of my favorite people is author and speaker Patsy Clairmont. We were discussing my first book on the telephone one day and trying to set up a time to meet face-to-face when she came to speak at a Women of Faith Conference in my hometown.

"Patsy, I'd love to spend some time with you before the conference, but I don't have a backstage pass. I won't have access to the part of the building where you will be."

"No problem," Patsy replied. "Just go to my book table and tell my son who you are. He'll bring you to me."

The day of the conference arrived, and I swam through a sea of women to reach Patsy's crowded book table. After proper introductions, Jason and I were off to find his mom. First we passed through heavy mahogany double doors that led to an area called, The Crown Room, for the VIP's who attended professional basketball games and other events.

Then we entered an elevator that took us to an area where the speakers were tucked away. As soon as we stepped into the elevator, a stern faced security guard rushed in, pointed his finger in my face and pronounced, "Where's your backstage pass? You're not supposed to be here, young lady. You're in a lot of trouble."

Then he whipped out his walkie-talkie and was not afraid to use it. Before I could force one word out of my dry mouth, Patsy's son stepped forward, showed the guard his credentials, and gallantly stated, "It's OK. I'm one of the speaker's sons. I have a backstage pass and she's with me."

"That's right," I agreed when I had once again found my voice. "He's Patsy Clairmont's son, and I'm with him."

"Oh, okay then," the guard said as he put the walkie-talkie back in its holster. He exited the elevator and he was off to seek and find other dangerous Christian women like myself who were attending the conference.

I had a wonderful visit with Patsy and left the conference very inspired by each one of the speakers. But perhaps the most important lesson I learned was on that elevator ride.    Revelation 12:10 says that Satan, "the accuser," stands before God accusing us day and night.  He calls us "unworthy" and questions our credentials as he points his gnarly finger and tells us we're not good enough to pass through heaven's doors. But just when we begin to feel unworthy to approach the throne room, God's Son, like Patsy's son, steps forward and says, "Leave her alone. She's with me, and I'm all the credentials she needs."

In the Old Testament, there is a sense that God was unapproachable because of His holiness and our sinfulness.  In the temple a veil separated the Holy of Holies where God resided, from the other areas of the temple where the priests attended daily. The high priest entered the Holy of Holies only once a year, on the Day of Atonement. Before he could enter, the priest went through a rigorous ceremonial cleansing process. Bells were hemmed to the bottom of his robe and a rope was tied around his ankle. When the priest entered the Holy of Holies, the men outside listened for the tinkling bells to make sure he was still alive. If God was not pleased, and the sound of the bells ceased, they pulled the dead priest out by the rope.

But in the New Testament all that changed. God was and is still the holy great I AM, but He welcomes us into the Holy of Holies with the confidence of a child approaching her daddy. When Jesus died on the cross of Calvary, God tore the veil of the Holy of Holies from top to bottom, inviting all those who believe in His Son as Savior and Lord to enter with assurance and confidence. (Mark 15:38). The writer of Hebrews encourages us, "Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need" (Hebrews 4:16). Paul reminds us, "In Him and through faith in Him we may approach God with freedom and confidence (Ephesians 3:12).

Just like the security guard who pointed his finger in my face and told me I didn't have the right credentials to enter the secured area, Satan will tell us that we don't deserve to enter into God's presence. But just as Patsy's son showed his credentials to allow me to enter the secured room, Jesus Christ stands to show his credentials that allow us to enter the throne room of God. As a child of God, your Father welcomes you into His presence. Not only that...He longs for you to come.

Let's Pray
Heavenly Father, I know that there is no way I could ever be good enough to earn my way to heaven. Thank You that Jesus did it for me, and He is all the credentials I need.

In Him Name,

Amen

Now It's Your Turn
Has Satan ever tried to make you feel like you weren't good enough?

If so, then here are a few verses that let him know exactly who and Whose you are!

I am the salt of the earth. (Matthews 5:13)
I am the light of the world. (Matthews 5:14)
I am a child of God. (John 1:12)
I am part of the true vine, a channel (branch) of Christ's life. (John 15:15)
I am Christ's friend. (John 15:15)
I am chosen and appointed by Christ to bear His fruit. (John 15:16)
·         I am a joint-heir with Christ, sharing His inheritance with Him. (Romans 8:14-15)                                                         

·          I am a temple of God.  His Spirit dwells in me. (1 Corinthians 3:16)

I am joined to the Lord and am one spirit with Him. (1 Corinthians 6:17)
I am a member (part) of Christ's body. (1 Corinthians 12:27)
I am a new creation. (2 Corinthians 5:17)
I am reconciled to God and am a minister of reconciliation. (2 Corinthians 5:18,19)
I am a saint. (Ephesians 1:1)
I am blessed with every spiritual blessing in heavenly places. (Ephesians 1:3)


More from the Girlfriends
Today's devotion was taken from Sharon's new book, 5 Dreams of Every Woman and How God Wants to Fulfill Them(a new revised version of her previous book, Dreams of a Woman). Can you risk the hope that God still has dreams for your life? That He hasn't forgotten you?  Place your hand firmly in His-take a deep breath and begin the exciting journey to a place you thought you'd never find: the dream God planned for you all along. Sharon also has a laminated prayer cardfilled with verses to help you remember your identity in Christ.

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]

March 22, 2011

What Did You Say?

Mary Southerland

Today's Truth
"A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver" (Proverbs 25:11).

Friend to Friend
Fruit is one of my favorite foods. When I go grocery shopping, it always takes me longer to get through the fruit section than any other area of the store. I spend what some might consider a ridiculously long time picking out what I hope will be the juiciest apples, the plumpest grapes and sweetest bananas. Experience has taught me to quickly discard any piece of fruit that is bruised, mushy or discolored. I shake cantaloupe and thump watermelons. Ripe strawberries have a unique sweet scent and only the reddest cherries will do. Plums and tomatoes must be firm to the touch, bright in color and wrinkle-free while the more wrinkles the better when it comes to choosing passion fruit.

On a recent trip to the grocery store, I was carefully making my fruit selections when the thought occurred to me that I spend more time choosing fruit than I spend choosing my words.

Words are power tools that can build and encourage. Words can also destroy and cause confusion. We have all been hurt and even defeated by words spoken in anger or words rising out of a wounded and bitter heart. I have been guilty of speaking damaging words with the ulterior motive of flaunting power or demonstrating control. It is so easy for my mouth to be in motion before my mind is in gear and the result is rarely good or godly.

The words we speak can clarify or complicate a situation. I have watched my husband diffuse an emotional bomb and avoid a potentially explosive situation with a few carefully chosen and quietly spoken words of wisdom. I have also observed him in the art of confrontation – and with Dan, it really is an art. In fact, one person told me that he was halfway home before he realized that Dan had just confronted and corrected him.

Solomon offers great wisdom concerning the use of words, "Whoever controls his mouth protects his own life. Whoever has a big mouth comes to ruin" (Proverbs 13:3 GWT). If we do not learn to use and control our tongue, it will use and control us. While it is true that we need to choose our words carefully, it is just as true that the tongue is a spiritual thermometer that reflects the condition of the heart.

I am not a good patient and tend to think that most medical rules apply to everyone else in my life – but not to me. After all, I am a woman and I am a Southerland.  According to my husband, it doesn't get much tougher than that. Several years ago, I was slammed with a high fever and blinding headache that sent me to bed for days, something highly unusual for me. I called my doctor. When he heard my symptoms, he told me to come in immediately and even though his waiting room was full, he would make room for me in his already crowded schedule. His urgency was not encouraging.

The minute I walked in his office, the receptionist waved me back to the patient area where a nurse promptly escorted me to an examination room, hurriedly recorded my symptoms, took my temperature, glanced briefly at my throat and quickly left the room. Minutes later, the doctor and a nurse walked in and stood on the opposite side of the room, almost smiling at me. At this point, I realized that whatever I had was evidently highly contagious and probably fatal. I felt so awful that the latter was definitely appealing.

"Mary, I am almost certain you have viral meningitis," the doctor said. Seeing the blank look on my face, he explained, "Your abnormally high fever of 104 and severe headache are classic symptoms of meningitis, but we need to run some tests to verify my suspicions. Oh, and by the way, how long have you had the solid white coating on your tongue?" I was stunned! What coating? Why is the color of my tongue even important in determining my illness? The doctor continued, "The health of the tongue is a very strong indicator of the health of the entire body."

The same is true when it comes to the words we speak. "The mouth speaks the things that are in the heart. Good people have good things in their hearts, and so they say good things. But evil people have evil in their hearts, so they say evil things" (Matthew 12:34-35, NCV). If my words are boastful, my heart is insecure. If my words are filthy, my heart is impure and if my words are critical, my heart is filled with pride and anger. In other words, the problem is not really my mouth, it's my heart. The words I speak reflect the true condition of my heart.

Careless words can cause such grief. Unless strained through discipline and holiness, words can convey false perspectives and untruths. However, the right word, spoken at the right time and in the right way can bring order in the midst of confusion and light on a very dark path. I believe God gives us spiritual "radar" so we can assess a situation and speak the right word for that circumstance. We just need to check the "radar screen" before we speak.

Let's Pray
Father, I can be so careless with the words I speak. Forgive me. Please help me learn how to control my tongue. Create in me a clean heart, God, so that I can speak words filled with grace and love.

In Jesus' name,

Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
Read Colossians 4:6. "Let your conversation be gracious and effective so that you will have the right answer for everyone."

How would you describe words that are "gracious?"

How can our words be "effective" in the lives of others?

What do you think Paul means when he says that we can have the "right answer for everyone?"

More from the Girlfriends
The subject of taming the tongue is a hard one. Since communication is a gift from God, He has a plan for the right way to use it. My problem is that I tend to think my plan is better. I know. I can be arrogant ... and stubborn. Someone recently sent me this prayer: "Lord, keep Your arm around my shoulder and Your hand over my mouth." Amen!

Stressed out? Mary's book, Escaping the Stress Trapis based on Psalm 23 and will help you learn how to control the stress in your life instead of allowing stress to control you. Check it out!

Need a good laugh? Mary's MP3, Laugh More – Live Better, is a refreshing message filled with humor and Biblical principles that will help you learn how to celebrate life. (Also available as CD)

Need something for your pain? Enroll in Mary's weekly online Bible Study, How to Handle Hurtand learn how to face and deal with the pain in your life.

Need a friend?Connect with Mary on Facebookor through email.

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]

March 23, 2011

Seek Me with Your Whole Heart

Sharon Jaynes

Today's Truth
"You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart" (Jeremiah 29:13 NIV).

Friend to Friend
God promised, "You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart" (Jeremiah 29:13 NIV). This is more than a casual glance before heading off to work or to carpool in the morning. It's more than a hit and run encounter with God. He desires to speak to us through the pages of our Bibles and it requires meditating and seeking God with our whole hearts.

Jesus told His followers, "If you abide in my Word then you are truly disciples of Mine; and you shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free" (John 8:32 NIV).  Abide means to continue in, to tarry, to dwell, to remain. It is not reading the Scripture for information, but for transformation. There are many scholars who have read the Bible for information but have never entered into a relationship with Jesus Christ. This reminds me of the difference between the woman who memorizes a menu at a restaurant and a woman who enjoys the food. Only one gets fed.

Let me ask you, who can describe a sunset more accurately – a blind person who has read all about sunsets (what causes the colors, the time of day they occur, the effect of clouds on the hues) or the person who had seen and experienced the vibrant oranges, blues, pinks and purples painted across the sky as the sun creeps below the horizon and the rays play peek-a-boo behind the scattered clouds? I dare say the one who has experienced the sunset for herself.  When we study God's Word and couple that with listening to His voice, we will come to know Him on a much more intimate level than a Bible scholar who has studied the words on the page but has never taken the time to converse with the Author Himself.

Jesus told us that when we abide in God's Word, we will become a disciple, a learner, and an imitator of the Teacher himself (John 8:31).  One thing I've noticed through the years, a Bible that is falling apart usually belongs to a person who isn't!

Let's Pray
Dear Lord, I thank You for the incredible love letter You have written to each and every one of us ... the Bible. I commit to not only read your Word, but meditate on Your Word. Lord, please speak to me through the pages of my Bible and help me be a woman who hears Your voice.

In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
What do you think it means to seek God with your whole heart? I'd love to hear your answers!  Let's chat at www.facebook.com/sharonjaynes.

Do you feel that you are seeking God with your whole heart?  If so, write down how.

If not, write down what needs to change.

More from the Girlfriends
Today's devotion was taken from Sharon's book, Becoming a Woman who Listens to God.  God speaks to us through His Word, the Holy Spirit, prayer, nature, circumstances, and other people. If you would like to make hearing from God a daily occurrence rather than a rare occasion, then this book is for you!  Join Sharon as you learn now to become a woman who truly listens 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