Girlfriends in God

[Judy Harder]

May 31, 2012
Someone's Watching... Someone's Listening
Sharon Jaynes

Today's Truth
"About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them," (Acts 16:25 NIV).

Friend to Friend
Did you know someone is watching you? Did you know someone is listening to you?

Mary, Gwen and I were speaking at a Girlfriends in God conference in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The night before the event, we sat at a table in the hotel lobby, visiting with a mutual ministry friend. It was getting rather late, but we were enjoying being together and just didn't want to go to bed. After about an hour of chatting, three ladies from the church ministry team came into the lobby with beautiful gift bags in their hands.

"What are you doing here?" we asked.

"We have been watching you through the window and waiting for you to go to bed!" one of the gals exasperatingly announced. "But you just keep sitting here talking!  (Surprise, surprise) The plan was for the three of you to go to bed, and then we were going to place gift bags by your doors, knock and run away. (I know. How sweet.) But you just won't go to bed! So here we are. Here are your goodie bags."

After we gave hugs and kisses, and went to our separate rooms, I was struck with this truth. When we thought we were "off-line" so to speak, not in the public eye, not in the act of ministry...we really were. They were watching us through the window...

Girlfriend, there is never a time when we are "off-line." There is never a time when our actions and our words do not matter.

Acts 16 has a wonderful story about Paul and Silas. They were arrested, beaten and thrown in prison for preaching the gospel. The Message says they were beaten within an inch of their lives. The Scripture also tells us that their feet were placed in stocks...a form of restraint reserved for dangerous criminals. So what did they do? Complain? Grumble? Question God? No. They prayed. They sang.

"About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them," (Acts 16:25 NIV). It is amazing that they were singing and praying, but don't miss the last part of that sentence... "the other prisoners were listening to them." Underline that in your Bible. Ponder it. Remember it. "The other prisoners were listening to them."

Someone is always watching. Someone is always listening. What will they see in our actions? What will they hear in our words?  Will they hear coarse talk? Will they hear gracious words?

Later Paul wrote: "But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God's holy people. Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving," (Ephesians 5:3-5 NIV). Another translation says it this way: "...and there must be no filthiness and silly talk, or coarse jesting, which are not fitting, but rather giving of thanks," (NASB).

I read this poem years ago, and it has served as a wonderful reminder about my actions and words.

You are writing a gospel, a chapter each day;
By things that you do; By things you say.
Others read that gospel, whether faithless or true!
Say! What is the Gospel According To You?

Someone's watching. Someone's listening. Say! What is the Gospel according to you?

Let's Pray
Lord, I pray that You will "set a guard over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips," (Psalm 141:3). "Let no unwholesome talk come out of my mouth, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen," (Ephesians 4:29). I pray that my words will represent You well today.
In Jesus' Name,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
Why do you think Paul includes so many verses in his letters to the churches warning them about the dangers of unwholesome talk?

What do you think happens in a "seeker's" mind when she or he hears a Christian swear or tell a coarse joke?

We live in a culture where coarse words are inescapable. They are on TV, in movies, and everywhere you turn. You don't even have to be watching a bad television program to hear them. The words fill the commercials. I know it is tough not to fall into the world's parade. But God calls us to march to a different drummer...and Jesus is leading the band.

Here's something to ponder: Sometimes what makes you stand out as a Christian is not what you say, but what you don't say. If you prayed the prayer for today, let me know. Log onto www.facebook.com/sharonjaynesand say, "I asked God to watch over the door of my lips today."

More from the Girlfriends
Words are one of the most powerful forces in the universe. They can change the course of a life for good or for bad! If you would like to learn more about how to control your tongue and use your words to speak life into those around you, then see my book, The Power of a Woman's Words.It also has an accompanying Bible Study Guide and a teaching DVD. Perfect for group studies. The solution to many of your problems might just be right under your nose!

[Judy Harder]

June 1, 2012
Reaching and Teaching
Gwen Smith

Today's Truth
"Likewise, teach the older women to be reverent in the way they live, not to be slanderers or addicted to much wine, but to teach what is good.  Then they can train the younger women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled and pure, to be busy at home, to be kind..." (Titus 2:3-5,NIV).

Friend to Friend
One day after I'd led worship at church, another worship leader approached me. She is a darling, hip, 'just-turned-30' chick who totally loves Jesus. To my surprise, she asked if I would consider becoming her mentor. 'What?' At first I thought...'I'm way too young to be your mentor!' Then I woke up from my momentary dream and remembered that I am a wise-on-my-good-days, slightly-seasoned '40-something' chick with a decade of life, marriage, and ministry on her. Excitement and trepidation danced together in my heart when I prayerfully agreed.

Mentoring is important. I've been deeply blessed by the women that speak into my life who are slightly more gray and less green than I am! Have you ever longed for advice but didn't know who to talk to? I know I have. We need spiritual mentors to take our hand as we face life. Likewise, we also need to grab hold of a younger spiritual hand for the journey, to bring them along in Christ and strengthen their spiritual muscles, to encourage, teach and admonish.

As runners in a relay race reach forward to grab the baton from their teammate in front of them, they also extend the baton back to a runner about to take off in her own race. We need to be reaching forward and reaching backward. Reaching and teaching! Look at what the apostle Paul told his disciple, Titus, about women doing life with other women:

"Likewise, teach the older women to be reverent in the way they live, not to be slanderers or addicted to much wine, but to teach what is good. Then they can train the younger women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled and pure, to be busy at home, to be kind, and to be subject to their husbands, so that no one will malign the word of God" (Titus 2:3-5, NIV).

The Bible says in Mark chapter 6 that after John the Baptist had died, his disciples came and took his body and laid it in a tomb. I find it interesting that the word 'disciples' is used instead of the word friends or associates. The implication is that John had poured his life into guiding and instructing these men in the truth and hope of Christ.

The Bible also tells us that Jesus revered John the Baptist as one of the greatest men to ever walk the earth. Interestingly, John did not consider himself even worthy to tie the sandals of Jesus. So even a man such as John the Baptist, who was set apart for a special God-mission to prepare the way for the LORD, needed to reach forward to Christ for guidance and wisdom. Though he was not one of the twelve disciples that did life with Jesus during His years of public ministry, John the Baptist was, indeed, a disciple of the Lord. What a beautiful example we see here. John was a disciple and made disciples. With God's help and a little effort, we can do both, too!

Friend, this is what GiG (Girlfriends in God) is all about. Sharon, Mary and I purpose to pour in to you each day through these devotions – to encourage you and spur you on toward the heart of God. But we can't be the only resource you've got in this area. Beyond us e-GiGs, you need flesh-friends in your life for the same purpose.

I challenge you to prayerfully connect with one or two women this week to discuss this mentoring topic. Reach ahead. Reach behind. When you do, deep blessings and growth will be evidenced in your life and in the life of those with whom you connect.

Let's Pray
Dear Lord, You are so good to instruct us toward relationships...both with You and with others. Would you help me to grow in faith?  Would you use me to make a difference in the lives of other women as well? Please lead me in Your will and in Your ways.
In the powerful name of Jesus,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn

Do you have a spiritual mentor?
Have you spoken with her recently?
Why not call or email her to set up a date to meet for coffee or lunch this week?
Are you mentoring anyone right now?
If so, why don't you call or email her to set up a time to meet for coffee or lunch sometime in the next week or two?
If you are not a spiritual mentor yet or don't have a spiritual mentor, take a few moments to seek God's heart about this for your life.
More from the Girlfriends
GiGs - Thanks for joining us on this journey. Sharon, Mary and I love you and pray for you regularly. Beyond the devotions, be sure to visit us on Facebook so we can have a continuous e-connection. Today on my Facebook page, we will be gathering to pray for one another. Got a prayer need? Stop by and connect/pray with GiGs all over the world right now: www.Facebook.com/GwenSmithMusic.

STORIES, SCRIPTURE and SONGS – These are the three words that embody the ministry of Gwen Smith. She shares both stories and songs in the resources available on her website. Longing to go deeper in your faith? Love a good God-story? Looking for Scripturally-sound inspiration and hope? Grab a few CDs or her book, Broken into Beautiful, today at www.GwenSmith.net.

[Judy Harder]

June 4, 2012
Whoever said, "Don't Ever Change," Didn't Know You Very Well
Sharon Jaynes

Today's Truth
"And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit," - (2 Corinthians 3:18 NIV).

Friend to Friend
Isn't it funny what you think you know in High School? I was looking back through my old High School Yearbook, 1975 to be exact. It was my Senior year. The end of an era. We were the Gryphons, oh yeah...mighty, mighty Gryphons, oh yeah. (The Gryphon was our team mascot, for all those who might not know the cheer).

The skirts were short, the bellbottoms were wide, and the hair...oh the hair. My white friends all had long straight hair parted down the middle like the Red Sea – both the boys and the girls. My African American friends had big afros – really big. (Now don't anybody send me an email saying I've offended you. You know seventy's hair was a sight to behold. Come on. Admit it.)

But what interested me the most were all the farewell notes written throughout the pages by friends, and some folks I barely even knew. Of course people tried to write nice things about each other. "You are so sweet." "You are nice." "You had cool clothes." "You'll go far in life," whatever that meant. Others wrote about favorite memories shared.  "I remember when...." "I'll never forget when..."   What's funny is I can't remember half of what the "I'll never forget" comments were talking about.

In all the scribbled farewells and best wishes, one line stuck out among all the rest. "Don't ever change." It was repeated time and time again. I wonder how many timesI wrote that same line in someone else's yearbook.

Oh my mercy. I can't imagine what I'd be like if I had followed that astute wisdom from my fellow classmates. "Don't ever change." It's frightening!

I can almost hear Satan giving a big Gryphon cheer. "That's right girl! Don't ever change! Stay the same ole' insecure girl you've always been! Keep feeling like you're not good enough, not smart enough, not talented enough and not pretty enough! Don't ever change! Don't grow in your relationship with Jesus. You know everything you need to know right now. You've got your ticket to heaven. That's enough. You don't need to learn anymore of that Bible stuff. Don't ever change. You're fine just the way you are!"

Well praise God I didn't follow the advice written in my High School yearbook. I did change...a lot. And I've got more changing to do...a lot.

All through the New Testament, Paul wrote letters to Christians encouraging them not to stay the way they were, but to change. Here's just one example in his letter he wrote to the Ephesians church:

So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of people in their deceitful scheming. Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ.

You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.

Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body. "In your anger do not sin": Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold. Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need.

Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen... Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.

I think if Paul had been a fellow Gryphon, and written in my High School yearbook, he would have penned something like the following: "Please, Sharon, whatever you do, change! Don't stay the same as you are today. Continue to grow and mature in your faith. Make it your goal to become more and more like Jesus with each passing day. And Sharon, please do something about that hair."

Let's Pray
Dear Lord, Thank you for accepting me just the way I am, but loving me too much to let me stay that way. I don't want to stay the same, but to grow more and more into a reflection of your glory with each passing day. Change me, Lord.
In Jesus' Name,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
Paul wrote several similar passages to the one in Ephesians above. Pick one of the following and read today.

Colossians 3:1-17
Galatians 5:16-26
1 Thessalonians 4:1-12

What is one thing about your character or lifestyle that God has changed over the past year. Let's share our answers. Log onto www.facebook.com/sharonjaynesto comment.

More From The Girlfriends
If you would like to learn more about how to experience real and lasting change – change from the inside out, then you'll want to read Sharon's book, Becoming Spiritually Beautiful.Discover the beauty that comes only through a personal, ongoing, vibrant relationship with Jesus. While you're on her website, www.sharonjaynes.com, check out the free printable resources and free book sample downloads.

[Judy Harder]

June 5, 2012
Time for a Change?
Mary Southerland

Today's Truth
Isaiah 40:28-31 (NIV) Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles;they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.

Friend to Friend
Have you ever wanted to "freeze" a moment and make it last a lifetime? I have. I have also lived through certain moments that I wish I could change or even delete and pretend they never happened. But change is a natural part of life. We can embrace it, or we can fight it.

My husband often says that the only people who really like change are wet babies. However, I have discovered that some people thrive and live for change to the point that they are "change junkies" and have little stability in life. Others dig in their heels and refuse to change a thing and ultimately become prisoners of old habits – good and bad. When it comes to change, we have a decision to make – just like the eagle.

The eagle has the longest life-span among birds. It can live up to 70 years, but to reach this age, the eagle has to make a hard decision. In its' 40s, the eagle's long and flexible talons can no longer grab prey, which serves as food. Its long and sharp beak becomes bent and its old and heavy wings, covered with feathers that have grown thick over the years, become stuck to its chest, making it difficult to fly. 

The eagle is then left with only two options: die or go through a painful process of change, which lasts 150 days. The difficult process requires the eagle to fly to a mountain top and sit on its nest. There the eagle knocks its beak against a rock until the beak falls off. The eagle will then wait for a new beak to grow back and use the new beak to pluck out its talons. When the new talons grow back, the eagle starts plucking out all of the old feathers. After five months, the eagle takes a famous flight of rebirth and lives 30 more years.

Change is sometimes needed to survive. God may be asking you to step out in faith and make a change in your life. He has already been where He is asking you to go and prepared every step of the way for you. You don't have to be afraid of the unknown. It is unknown only to you. God is well aware of where you are and of every step He is asking you to take. He may be asking you to get rid of old memories, eliminate destructive habits and forsake lifeless traditions. He is waiting for you to take one step. Faith in God does not come all at once. Faith is a step-by-step process that begins with one small step and increases as we go.  An Old Testament story found in Joshua 3 illustrates this truth.

The Israelites are camped on the bank of the Jordan River. Forty years earlier, they had escaped from Egypt and have been wandering around in the wilderness ever since. All of their needs have been met by God. They have seen miracle after miracle and now they can see Canaan, the Promised Land. However, there is a problem.

A huge river stands between them and the Promised Land, and there is no way around it. God told His people that He would make a dry path through the river, but the priests had never seen that happen. In fact, they hadn't even been born when the Red Sea was parted and there were no reruns of the Ten Commandments at the local Wilderness Theatre. The Israelites had spent their entire adult lives in the wilderness and finally, they could see a way out. Oh, and one more problem -- the priests couldn't swim. This was probably the first river they had even been close to in their lives. I can imagine their fear and questions. God was asking them to step out in faith as never before.

I don't imagine the Israelites had a great deal of faith in God at that moment, but they had just enough faith to take that first step. And that was enough.

Joshua 3:15-17 (NCV) During harvest the Jordan overflows its banks. When the priests carrying the Ark came to the edge of the river and stepped into the water, the water upstream stopped flowing. It stood up in a heap. So the people crossed over.

Notice that God did nothing until those toes touched the water. That first step was all God needed to see. Many times, we won't take the first step of change because we're afraid we won't be able to make the whole journey.

Don't wait until you believe it all.
Don't wait until you can see it all.
Don't wait until you understand it all.

Trust God and step out in faith. He will meet you there.

Let's Pray
Father, I come to You in faith. I will admit that change scares me because it means I have to face the unknown. I know it is a control issue, Lord. Right now, I surrender the control of my life and my journey to You. Give me the strength to step out in faith and make the changes You are asking me to make.
In Jesus' name,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
Read Isaiah 40:28-31 again.

Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles;they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.

Make a list of the reasons we can trust God – even when facing uncertainty.

Are you tired? Is God asking you to make some changes in your life? Record those changes in your journal.

What one thing is keeping you from stepping out in faith? Are you willing to surrender that one thing to God right now?

More from the Girlfriends
Check out Mary's E-Bible Study: What Am I Doing in this Pit for ways to deal with the chains that are holding you prisoner. And if you need help with trusting God, get Mary's MP3 download, Stepping Out in Faith.

Need help learning how to live a life of power and purpose? Check out Mary's weekly online Bible Study, How to Dress for Successand learn how to live a life of victory. Connect with Mary on Facebook or through email.

[Judy Harder]

June 6, 2012
I Just Called to Say, "I Love You"
Sharon Jaynes

Today's Truth
"Call to me," says the Lord, "and I will answer you and tell you great and mighty things which you do not know," (Jeremiah 33:3 NASB).

Friend to Friend
It was an unusual phone call from my son, Steven. It was the second week of his second semester, his third year in college.

"Hey mom, this is Steven. I just wanted to call and say 'hello'. I haven't talked to you in a while and wanted to see how you were doing."         

"Hey bud," I replied. "How are you? How are your classes? Do you like your professors?"

We volleyed questions and answers back and forth. It was a nice intro, and I kept waiting for the request such as, "Could you put an extra $50 in my account for another Philosophy book I had to buy," or a question such as "Does my car insurance go up if I get a parking ticket." But those type questions never came.

"Mom, how are you doing?"

"What have you been up to this week?"

"How's the new book coming?"

After about fifteen minutes into our conversation, I reluctantly asked, "Is everything OK?"

"Yeah," he chuckled. "I just called to talk. Are you surprised?"

"Sort of," I sheepishly admitted. "But it is a wonderful surprise!"

A few minutes later we said our "goodbyes" and "I love yous." Then I sat there and savored the joy of knowing that my son had called...not because he needed anything or had a problem to solve, but just because he loved me. Suddenly I got another call. Only this one was from my Heavenly Father. No, the phone didn't ring, but like a cell phone set on silent mode, God vibrated my heart with that still small voice that I have grown to love so well. Let me paraphrase what He said...

"Sharon, I want you to remember how you feel at this moment. Your son, whom you love more than life itself, has just called to talk to you...not because He wanted anything, not because he had a question about a decision or a detail of life, not because he had a problem to solve. He called just to talk, simply to see what was on your heart - because he loves you. That, my child, whom I love more than life, is the same way I feel when you talk to Me – not because you want something, not because you have a question about a decision you have to make, not because you have a problem to solve. That is how I feel when you talk to Me simply because you want to learn what is on My heart...simply because you love Me."

Steven's call was a poignant reminder that the God of the universe delights when His children call...just to say, "I love You."

"Call to me," says the Lord, "and I will answer you and tell you great and mighty things which you do not know," (Jeremiah 33:3 NASB).

Let's Pray
Dear Father, I love You. That's really all I want to say today. I love you, not because of what You do, but because of Who You are...my Heavenly Dad.
In Jesus' Name,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
Have you told God you love Him lately?  If not, one of the best ways to praise Him is to use the names of God found in the Bible. Let's look at a few. I'll give you the Hebrew name found in the Old Testament and the English translation.

"God we praise you that you are:

Jehovah – The Self Existent Onewho had no creator and was before all things (Exodus 3:13-16)
Jehovah-Raah – The Lord my Shepherdwho takes care of me (Psalm 23)
Jehovah-Jireh – The Lord my Provider who provides for my every need (Genesis 22:8, 14)
Jehovah-Shalom– The Lord my Peace who gives peace beyond human understanding (Judges 6:24)
Jehovah-Rophe - The Lord Who Heals  physically, emotionally, and spiritually (Exodus 15:26)
Jehovah-Tsidkenu – The Lord our Righteousnesswho cleanses us from all our sin (Jeremiah 23:6)
Jehovah-Shammah – The Lord is Thereand Who will never leave us alone (Ezekiel 48:35)
Jehovah-Nissi – The Lord my BannerWho brings victory in all my spiritual battles (Exodus 17:15)
Jehovah-M'Kaddesh – The Lord who Sanctifiesand sets us apart (Leviticus 20:
If you would like a "printer friendly" list of 25 names of God in the Old Testament, log onto my website at www.sharonjaynes.com and click on the Living Life Resourses under the Free Resources page.

When looking at these names of God, which one means the most to you today? Let's share at www.facebook.com/sharonjaynes.

More from the Girlfriends
Today's devotion was taken from Sharon's book, 5 Dreams of Every Woman and How God Wants to Fulfill Them. Make no mistake about it, even if your life has not turned out the way you thought it would, your Heavenly Father has great plans for your life. When you release the broken pieces to Him, He creates a beautiful mosaic more fabulous that anything you could have ever imagined. Let's learn to dream again!

[Judy Harder]

June 7, 2012
Trusting God with the Future
Mary Southerland

Today's Truth
2 Corinthians 4:18 (NIV) "So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal."

Friend to Friend
In an effort to escape the brutal summer heat of South Florida, our family headed to the beautiful mountains of North Carolina. The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of our favorite spots for hiking, so we planned a day trip that included exploring a few hiking trails, a picnic and a visit to the beautiful and historic colonial home of Carl Sandburg. We woke to discover the beautiful weather of the day before had dissolved into a soupy mix of drizzle and fog, but we were not about to let a little fog and rain deter us from our original plan. We had been vacationing in North Carolina for years and knew fog is a common occurrence – even in the summer. We piled into our van and made our way up the mountain. The closer we got to the Sandburg home, the heavier the fog became. In fact, when we arrived, the fog was so thick we could barely see the walkway leading to the gift shop where we needed to purchase tickets for the tour of the home and grounds. We decided we would have to come back another day for the tour, but since we were already at the gift shop, it wouldn't hurt to do a little browsing.

The shop owner greeted us warmly and asked if we would like to purchase tickets for the guided tour scheduled to leave in an hour. Always the diplomat, I responded, "Are you kidding me? Have you looked outside?" The owner smiled and said, "Oh, you mean the fog? It will be gone in a little while. Now – how many tickets do you need?" I don't like pushy salesmen, even when they are sweet and kind – and maybe a little near-sighted. "I think we will just wait and see if the fog actually lifts," I responded, convinced the thick fog would last all day, and resumed my browsing.  I lost track of time and was surprised to hear the owner announce, "The tour is leaving in 15 minutes. This is our final call for tickets." I walked out of the gift shop to discover the fog really was lifting and the skies were actually beginning to clear. I couldn't believe my eyes! Within minutes, the sun was shining - as if the fog had never existed.

It sometimes feels as if the fog of doubt and fear of darkness will never lift from our lives. The promises of God seem to get swallowed up by the problems we face. We want to curse our crisis – not praise God in the midst of that crisis. The hurt and pain overwhelm our faith, and we lose sight of the fact that this world is not our home and the troubles we face are only temporary. Lift up your eyes, girlfriend. Fix your heart and mind on God – He is with you – and makes every problem point to a promise.

Promise of direction Proverbs 20:30"Sometimes it takes a painful situation to make us change our ways."

God uses problems to show us the way. We would walk through the wrong door if He didn't close it. Years ago, I dated a young man I thought I would marry. I began to pray, "Lord, if he is not the one, just close the door." The very next conversation I had with this young man ended our relationship and resulted in my taking a church staff position that led me to Dan Southerland.

Promise of correction Psalm 119:71-72 "It was the best thing that could have happened to me, for it taught me to pay attention to your laws."

God uses problems to correct us. When our daughter was a toddler, she was fascinated with electrical outlets. Nothing we said or did seemed to deter her ... until the day she stuck a safety pin in the outlet. "Ouch!" she cried, holding up her little red finger for me to kiss. She never played with an outlet again. 

Promise of protection Genesis 50:20"You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good."

A problem can be a blessing in disguise if it keeps you from being hurt by something more serious. I dreaded taking our children to get their immunization shots. I took a healthy child to the doctor and came home with a little one who was fussy, sore and running a low grade temperature. Our pediatrician finally said, "Mary, think of it like this. You are allowing your babies to experience a little hurt in order to prevent them from experiencing a bigger hurt.  A tetanus shot is nothing compared to tetanus itself."

Promise of perfection   Romans 5:3-4"We can rejoice when we run into problems ... they help us learn to be patient. And patience develops strength of character in us and helps us trust God more each time we use it until finally our hope and faith are strong and steady."

Problems, when responded to correctly, are character builders. I once spoke for a women's conference with the theme of "Problems into Pearls." The leader welcomed me and said, "We have to get you some pearls!" Digging in her purse, she produced a beautiful pearl necklace for me to wear. I spoke several times, counseled and prayed with numerous women and tried to meet as many women as possible. When the woman came to retrieve her pearl necklace, I was embarrassed. I had worked up quite a sweat with all of that hugging, laughing, talking. She brushed my apology aside and said, "Sweat is good for pearls. It helps them keep their luster."

God is at work in and around you.  You may not see His hand, hear His voice or even understand His process, but you can rest assured that you can trust His heart.  Remember, every problem points to a promise.

Let's Pray
Lord, I am tired of trying to face my problems in my own strength. Today, I choose to fix my gaze on You and praise You for Your presence and power in my life. I will give You praise, knowing You take up residence in the praises of Your people. I will walk through my fear, knowing You are with me. I declare my belief in Your willingness to help me face anything that comes my way. I trust You with my problems, Lord.
In Jesus' name,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
Read each of the following verses. Choose at least one to memorize and record in your journal.

Psalm 121:1-2 (NIV) "I lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from? My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth."

Psalm 46:1 (NIV) "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble."

Psalm 63:7-8 (NIV) "Because you are my help, I sing in the shadow of your wings. My soul clings to you; your right hand upholds me."

More from the Girlfriends
Check out Mary's E-Bible Study How to Find Your Missing Peace for ways to deal with fear and walk in peace. And if you need help with trusting God, get Mary's MP3 download, Stepping Out in Faith.  Helpful MP3 downloads, CDs and books are also available in Mary's online storealong with FREE resourceson her site.

Need help learning how to live a life of power and purpose? Check out Mary's weekly online Bible Study, How to Dress for Successand learn how to live a life of victory. Connect with Mary on Facebook or through email.

[Judy Harder]

June 8, 2012
Keep Watch!
Gwen Smith

Today's Truth
Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith... (1 Peter 5:8-9, NIV).

Friend to Friend
I was really excited that evening because I actually had a fun dinner plan ... which is not always the case. There was some grilled chicken left over from dinner the night before, so I decided to bust out my griddle and whip up some yummy grilled chicken quesadillas – a simple, yet very popular Smith-family delicacy. I know: it's a crazy-easy make, but for some reason my kids think I'm a genius when quesadillas are on the menu. Go figure.           

I grabbed a knife, a chopping board, and the leftover chicken from the fridge. Minutes later, the chicken was ready for it's cheese and tortilla companions. While the griddle was heating up, I turned my attention to a few other family matters. I don't even remember what those matters were. It might have been a buzzer noising from laundry room – alerting me of dry clothes that needed hung. I might have turned away to set the table or perhaps I had to intervene between my children who perpetually struggle to keep their hands to themselves. Whatever it was that drew my attention away from dinner prep was innocent – normal stuff – nothing out of the ordinary.
           
When I turned back to the business of quesadilla making, confusion gripped me as an empty cutting board glared at me. With an eyebrow raised quizzically, I asked my husband if he had moved my chicken.
           
"No Honey. I haven't touched your chicken." He replied, with a twinkle in his eye.
           
Hmmmmm. A chicken mystery. How odd.
           
I grew a bit anxious and quickly began to interview each of my children, "Did you take the chicken off the cutting board?"
           
"No, Mom. I didn't touch the chicken," they said one after another.
           
I wondered, "If I didn't move the chicken and my family didn't move the chicken, then where is my chicken?" I looked around the room once more just to be sure that I hadn't simply placed the chicken somewhere else.
           
Then I saw it ... a look of guilt. A look that screamed and pleaded, "Yes! I took your chicken, but please don't be angry with me. It smelled so good and ... and ... I'm a big dog – I need my nourishment. Was it wrong? Okay. I know it was wrong. Please forgive me. I did it. I ate your chicken. I'm sorry. I'd like to go to my crate now..."

His ears lowered as my eyes met his. My brows furrowed. "Rocky! YOU ate my chicken! Bad dog!" I lamented in frustration as I began to make a new chickenless dinner plan...
           
Rocky's just a dog. He's not out to get me and he didn't mean to mess up our dinner plans, but he did prey on our family meal that night. He came and took what wasn't his because I had let my guard down. I wasn't watching over my chicken.

As believers in Jesus Christ, you and I must guard our hearts and watch over our homes. The Bible warns Christians to keep watch. Beyond things seen, there are spiritual battles taking place around us continually. If you are a believer and follower of Jesus Christ, then you have an enemy and his name is Satan. If you live to listen to the voice of Jesus, the Good Shepherd, then strap on your battle gear, girlfriend, because your enemy has a mission to destroy you. Beware!
           
In the New Testament book of John, chapter 10, Jesus identified himself as the exclusive way to our salvation – as the Gate for the sheep of God – as the One who loves, leads and rescues us. In John 10:10, Jesus warns that though His plan for us is protection, love and help, the enemy ... Satan, "...the thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they might have life, and have it to the full."
           
The Bible has a lot to say about this. It tells us time and time again to be alert to the schemes of Satan. To keep watch. "Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith..."(1 Peter 5:8-9a, NIV).
           
Though we have an enemy with a real plan to mess with our emotions, our health, our marriages, our children, our relationships, our jobs and our thoughts, we are not without help or hope. We have both. God's power and protection are readily available to believers. 24/7. "But the Lord is faithful, and He will strengthen and protect you from the evil one" (2 Thessalonians 3:3, NIV).

"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord's people" (Ephesians 6:10-18, NIV).

I was caught off guard the night that our dog, Rocky, took the chicken off the counter... and there have been times when I've been caught off guard in the midst of spiritual battles. As Christian women, let's remember to keep watch – over our hearts, our minds, and our homes. Let's purpose to proactively pray for protection, power and perseverance. May we always keep watch.

Let's Pray
Dear Lord, You are all-powerful and mighty to save. I praise you and delight in your plan for me to have abundant life through Jesus. Please cover me in Your Spirit today and equip me to fend off attacks from the enemy in your power and help.
In Jesus' Name I pray,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
What came to your mind/heart as you read this devotion? Can you identify an area where you feel the enemy is attacking you? Grab your journal and write about it. Pray for specific people and relationships that you feel need protection.

More from the Girlfriends
Are you an armed and dangerous Girlfriend in God? Be that woman! Let's pray for one another today. If you want to link arms with GiGs from across the globe and stand unified in prayer against the schemes of the devil, click over to my Facebook page:

[Judy Harder]

June 11, 2012
A Heavy Dose of Perspective
Sharon Jaynes

Today's Truth
"This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it!" (Psalm 188:24 NIV)

Friend to Friend
It was just a quick check-up at the doctor's office...or at least that's what it was supposed to be.  My "to-do-list" resembled a mile-long scroll and several deadlines loomed like a thunder cloud ready to burst. But, the appointment would take just a few minutes. Just enough time to catch my breath.

"Good morning Mrs. Jaynes," the cheery receptionist greeted. "May I see your insurance card please?"

We went through the regular check-in procedure and then I settled in a comfy chair with a magazine that I would not have normally read.  I knew I wouldn't have time to read a full-length article...since this was just a quick visit.  My, oh my, the trouble those Hollywood folks get into.

Ten minutes turned into fifteen turned into twenty turned into thirty. My to-do list began growing heavier and heavier in my mind.

"Excuse me," I interrupted the receptionist. "My appointment was thirty minutes ago.  Did they forget me?"

"I'm so sorry," she reassured me. "I'll check on it right away."

In just a few moments, a nurse appeared at the door. "Mrs. Jaynes, come right this way."

My second stop was into a stark treatment room with more magazines. "Oh well, let's see what Brittany did last year," I mumbled to myself. At least I was in the room. That was good.

The clock continued to tick. With each passing minute my frustration grew. "I'm glad he's not checking my blood pressure," I grumbled to no one in particular.

Fifty minutes after I had walked into the office for my quick 5-minute check-up, the doctor himself walked into my room. My to-do list was magnified in my mind. My time was important too, you know. I didn't have time to sit around and read out-dated gossip magazines!

The doctor was actually a friend of mine, but I was feeling less than friendly. Ice Queen is a description that comes to mind when I think of my probable appearance.

"Hi Sharon," he began. "I'm sorry you have had to wait so long. I have been with a patient and had to tell her that she has terminal cancer. It took longer than I thought."

Suddenly, my icy countenance began to melt into a puddle on the shiny tile floor and tears pooled in my eyes.I was upset about not checking insignificant frivolous errands off my to-do list, and the woman in the next room was pondering how she was going to spend her last days on earth. I envisioned her walking to her car and coming up with a brand new to-do list for her day.

#1 Live well
#2 Love well

Yes, I did have a check-up that day. God was the doctor and He looked into my heart to see that my perspective on life needed surgery. What's really important? My silly list of errands? No. What should be at the top of my to-do list today and every day is:  #1 Live well.  #2 Love well. Celebrate each day as an incredible gift from God.

Let's Pray
Dear God, Thank You for another day of life. Sometimes I can get so caught up in my silly little lists that I lose perspective of the true meaning of life. Help me to live my days glorifying You with every breath that I take and step that I make.

In Jesus' Name,  Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
What is at the top of your to do list today?

Consider making a new to do list and including what you think God would have you do today.

Wouldn't it be fun to see what your sisters are scheduled to do today? Log onto my Facebook page at www.facebook.com/sharonjaynes and tell me the first 5 items on your list. Be honest...not that you wouldn't beJI'm not looking for overly spiritual, I'm looking for real girlfriend stuff!

More from the Girlfriends
One of the things that is at the top of my to-do list for today is to love my husband the way he longs to be loved...the way God would have me love him.  If you would like to learn more about keeping your marriage in the top 5 of your to-do list, check out my book, Becoming the Woman of His Dreams- seven qualities every man longs for.

[Judy Harder]

June 12, 2012
Do Wrinkles Make You Die?
Mary Southerland

Today's Truth
James 1:19 (NIV) "My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry."

Friend to Friend
It had been a very long and extremely hard day. My husband's grandmother had died, and we had just returned from her funeral. Trying to establish a sense of normality for our two young children, I unpacked suitcases, started the laundry and spent some time playing with Jered and Danna. After a dinner during which Dan and I tried to lighten the atmosphere with silly bantering, we got the kids ready for bed.

Dan and Danna headed to her room for one last game of "Pretty, Pretty Princess" before bed. (You have not lived until you have seen Dan Southerland in a tiara and pink plastic earrings!) Jered and I settled in his bedroom to read books, play with his Hot Wheels and just talk. We prayed together and Jered climbed into bed. I gave him a kiss and a hug and tucked him into a blanket, a nightly ritual of creating a "Jered-ito." As I turned on his nightlight and started out of the room, Jered's question stopped me in my tracks. "Mama, do wrinkles make you die?" he asked. Ordinarily, I would have dismissed his question as a childish ploy to delay bedtime, but in a rare moment of wisdom as a mom, I sat on the edge of our son's bed, took his hand and asked, "Son, what do you mean?"

Jered smiled and replied, "Well, Grandmother died and she had sooooooo many wrinkles." Dan's grandmother battled pernicious anemia for many years. The illness itself and the medications she had to take for that condition had left her skin damaged and very wrinkled. "Yes, honey, Grandmother was sick and had a lot of wrinkles. I still don't understand your question." After a moment of silence, Jered said, "Well, at dinner tonight you and daddy were joking about who had the most wrinkles, and I just need to know if wrinkles make you die."

Wow! Over the years, I have thanked God so many times for the Holy Spirit who prompted me to stop and really listen to our son. We talked for a long time about the fact that wrinkles don't make you die, but we also talked about the fact that Grandmother Lois was in Heaven and did not have any more wrinkles. And she was well and no longer in pain. It was one of the most meaningful conversations Jered and I have ever had about life and death and the fact that when we know Jesus as our Lord and Savior, we will go to heaven where Grandmother Lois will be waiting for us.

I have had to learn how to listen – really listen. For years, I used the time someone was speaking to formulate a clever response. Oh, I looked into their eyes but did not really see them. I heard their words, but did not really listen. I failed to hear what was behind the words – the hurt and pain or the confusion and questioning heart.

I now work hard to realize that every person God sends my way is really seeking His listening heart at work in and through me. I try to look for the pain hidden in each word. I pray for wisdom to respond in a way that will promote restoration and encourage healing. I have a long way to go, but I want to be "God with skin on" when it comes to learning how to listen.

Listening by definition means "attention, with the intention to understand." James says we should be "quick to listen and slow to speak" (James 1:19). Talking is sharing but listening is caring. Take a tip from creation. Ears aren't made to shut, but the mouth is. Put away your sermon, save your advice and just listen. Sometimes the best gift we can give is a listening ear.

A little girl was eating breakfast with her Daddy. They were on a "date" spending some special time together. He was telling her how wonderful she was and how proud he was of her. After he had done what he thought was a sufficient job, he picked up his fork and began to eat. His daughter put her hand on his arm and stopped him with these words, "Longer, Daddy, longer." He didn't eat much food that day, but a little girl's hungry heart was fed because her father was willing to listen.

Are there any hungry hearts in your life who long for nothing more than your listening heart? I am convinced Jesus was an amazing listener. Children loved him and longed to spend time with Him. Hurting people were drawn to Him. He was sought out by people from every walk of life. He always made time to listen. We need to do the same.

Let's Pray
Father, I am sorry for the times when I have failed to really listen to the people in my life who need my love and undivided attention. Help me to be a better listener. Teach me to encourage others by the way I listen to and love them.
In Jesus' name,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
How would you rate yourself in the listening department? Do any of the following characteristics apply to you? If so, what steps do you need to take to become a better listener.

_____ Too busy
_____ Preoccupied
_____ Failure to focus
_____ A judgmental attitude
_____ Don't care enough

More from the Girlfriends
Check out Mary's E-Bible Study I Need a Friend for ways to deal with fear and walk in peace. And if you need help with trusting God, get Mary's MP3 download, Stepping Out in Faith. Check out all of Mary's E-Bible Studies, MP3 downloads, CDs, books and videos in her online store. And don't miss the FREE resourcesavailable on Mary's website. 

Need help learning how to live a life of power and purpose? Check out Mary's weekly online Bible Study, How to Dress for Successand learn how to live a life of victory. Connect with Mary on Facebook or through email.

Seeking God?

[Judy Harder]

June 19, 2012
I'm Just Passing Through
Mary Southerland

Today's Truth
John 14:1-3 "Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me. In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am."

Friend to Friend
I was flipping through television channels in a futile attempt to find something worth watching for a few minutes when the commercial for an upcoming movie grabbed my attention. A young man was trying to console his obviously upset friend. As he leaned across the table and took her hand, the young man quietly said, "God promised that everything will be okay in the end. So if everything is not okay, then this is not the end." The profound and simple truth stopped me in my tracks.

It had been a hard day – for many reasons. I have to admit that several times during the day I had thought, "God, I don't get it. Why is this happening?" I have been a follower of Jesus Christ for many years, but my faith obviously still has a long way to grow. For a few minutes, I had forgotten that this world is not my eternal home, and its troubles and trials are only temporary. You see, when I came to Christ, my citizenship was automatically and eternally changed from earth to heaven.

I read about an American tourist who paid a visit to a renowned Polish rabbi. The tourist was astonished to see that the rabbi's home was just a simple room filled with books, a table and a cot. "Rabbi, where is your furniture?" the tourist asked. The rabbi simply replied, "Where is yours?" The puzzled American asked, "Mine? But I am only a visitor here. I'm only passing through." The rabbi smiled and replied, "So am I."

The apostle John wrote, "Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me. In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am." In this passage, Jesus calls heaven "topos." In the Greek, the literal meaning of this word is "place." In other words, heaven is described as a real place. In this same passage, Jesus also calls heaven "oikos" which, in the Greek, literally means "a house or home, a dwelling." Some people say heaven is "a state of mind, a dream or wishful thinking," but the Bible is very clear about the fact that heaven is a real place. It is as real as the home and city in which you live.

·         Acts 1:11 "They said, 'Men of Galilee, why are you standing here staring at the sky? Jesus has been taken away from you into heaven. And someday, just as you saw him go, he will return!"'

Jesus did not go up into a state of mind, a dream or wishful thinking. He went to a real place and a real home.

·         Acts 10:9-11 "Peter was going up to the roof to pray. He was hungry and wanted to eat, but while the food was being prepared, he had a vision. He saw heaven opened."

·         Stephen was martyred for Christ. While he was being stoned, he spoke these words:

"Look, I see the heavens opened and the Son of Man standing in the place of honor at God's right hand" (Acts 7:56).

The Bible repeatedly refers to heaven as a real place ... a very real and very beautiful place. Heaven is the workmanship of God. Think about that for a moment. Jesus was a carpenter, a builder. He announced that He was going away to prepare for us, a beautiful home in heaven. We know what kind of work He does. He created the universe in six days. Jesus loves detail. Look at the wings of a butterfly. He loves color. Look at a rainbow or a sunset. He loves beauty. Look into the face of a newborn baby. Jesus has been working on heaven for over 2,000 years. What a place it must be!

When I hold the troubles and trials of this world against the backdrop of heaven, peace floods my heart, mind and soul. I just need to remember that this world is not really my home. I am just passing through. How about you?

Let's Pray
Father, when I stand at the judgment seat of Christ and He shows me His plan for me
The plan of my life as it might have been if He'd had his way -- and I see
How I blocked Him here and I refused Him there and I would not yield my will –
Will there be grief in my Savior's eyes, grief though He loves me still?

He would have me rich and I stand there poor,
Stripped of all but His grace while memory runs like a hunted thing down the paths I cannot retrace.

Then my desolate heart will nearly break with the tears that I cannot shed;
I will cover my face with my empty hands; I will bow my uncrowned head.

Lord of the years that are left to me, I give them into your hands;
Take me and break me; mold me to the pattern that you have planned.

In Jesus' name,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
Heaven is the heart and soul of our faith. It is a reality. Read the following two verses. Record them in your journal. What new truth and hope about heaven does each verse give you?

·         Isaiah 63:15 "LORD, look down from the heavens and see; look at us from your wonderful and holy home in heaven."

·         Colossians 1:5 "You have this faith and love because of your hope, and what you hope for is kept safe for you in heaven."

More from the Girlfriends
Check out Mary's E-Book Bible Study, Strength for the Storm, if you need help navigating the storm in your life. MP3 downloads, CDs and books are also available in Mary's online store along with FREE resources on her site.

Looking for a Bible Study that is both practical and powerful? Check out Mary's E-Book Bible Studies. Each one includes a study guide that you can download for your personal use or for a small group study.

Be sure to check out Mary's weekly Online Bible Study: How to Dress for Success. Enroll now and have access to all 2012 lessons. Connect with Mary on Facebook or through email.