Encouragement for Today

[Judy Harder]

June 28, 2013

When You Need Help
Tracie Miles


"But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you." John 14:26 (ESV)

Perhaps I was over-confident in my abilities. I thought all I'd need was a little help with the basics. But before the day was over I realized how wrong that thought process was. Especially when the day ended in frustrated tears.

It was my first time snow skiing, so my friend assured me that when the time came, he would help teach me how to make it down the slopes.

Somehow that instruction never happened, and before I knew it, my friend was quickly gliding down the freshly fallen snow while I stood gripping my poles and planting my skis deeply into the snow. As I watched him get smaller in the distance, I realized my helper was gone. Suddenly I was faced with a choice: turn back and take off my skis or get down the mountain alone.

It didn't take long for me to realize I made the wrong choice. Every time I managed to dig myself out of a mound of wet snow, I'd find myself face-first again in a jumble of skis and snowflakes. I was exasperated by my lack of coordination and vowed to never ski again. No matter how many times I tried to do it on my own, I still desperately needed someone to teach me and guide the way.

My challenging experience on that mountain reminds me of the conversation Jesus had with His disciples before His crucifixion recorded in John chapter 14. Jesus explained that although He had to leave, God would send a Helper, the Holy Spirit, to be with them always. Unlike my ski instructor who bailed on me, the Holy Spirit would never leave them alone.

Jesus knew the disciples might soon forget all the lessons He'd taught them. That's why He promised the Holy Spirit would remain with them to help them recall all that He had taught. Jesus understood that life would get messy, challenges would arise, persecution would come, and temptation would cross their paths.

Jesus knew they would need a Helper to make it through the trials of everyday life, and He promised that the Holy Spirit would always be with them to help.

The Holy Spirit is always ready to help us too, if only we remember to ask. The problem is, it's easy to forget to seek His help, not only in difficult decisions or circumstances, but also in small trials and decisions we face every day.

In the same way learning to ski requires the help of someone who has already mastered the skill, learning to walk in faith requires the help of the Holy Spirit who equips us to traverse through life by teaching us what we need to know and helping us recall what we have learned.

After taking a few lessons from a great instructor I finally learned to ski. Now I can make my poles and skis work together to get down the steep hills. I'm thankful for my ski teacher's help.

But as thankful as I am for those skiing lessons, I'm eternally grateful for the Holy Spirit who helps me navigate my way through life.

God knew we would need a Helper. And whether we are on the top of a mountain, or in the deepest pit, the Holy Spirit will never leave us alone. We can count on Him to guide us every step of the way.

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for sending us the Holy Spirit to be our Helper. Thank You for always being there for me. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
Do You Know Him?

Would you like to bring the message of this devotion to the women of your church? Click here to find out more about considering Tracie Miles as your next retreat / keynote speaker.

Visit Tracie's blog for encouragement and tips about how to ask for God's help in times of trouble and learn to depend on Him to guide your steps.

6 Habits of Highly Effective Christians by Brian T. Anderson and Glynnis Whitwer

Reflect and Respond:
What is one thing you have been trying to learn or master on your own without seeking God's help?

Ask the Holy Spirit to be your Helper today in that circumstance. Seek His instruction, guidance and wisdom.

Power Verses:
Psalm 54:4, "Behold, God is my helper; The Lord is the sustainer of my soul." (NAS)

Psalm 30:10, "Hear, O LORD, and be gracious to me; O LORD, be my helper." (NAS)

© 2013 by Tracie Miles. All rights reserved.

[Judy Harder]

July 1, 2013

How to Survive the Stress of Summer
Tracie Miles


"The LORD gives his people strength. The LORD blesses them with peace." Psalm 29:11 (NLT)

The threat of summer craziness was becoming a reality. I settled in a chair at my kitchen table, surrounded by the clutter of information sheets regarding work obligations, sports practices, mission trips and church activities. Pulling out my family calendar, I mapped out the summer months.

After writing down all our commitments, I stared at the endless scribbles etched across practically every date. We had only one free week during the entire summer. With a heavy sigh and swirling thoughts, I felt a twinge of stress and anxiety slowly rising up in my chest.

I couldn't help but wonder, isn't summer supposed to be footloose and fancy-free? What happened to sleeping in and time to rest and unwind? Are relaxing summer days merely a thing of the past?

Now, it seems like the summer can instead be filled with days when the kids are bored and whiny, camps get cancelled, work interferes with vacation plans, the AC goes out, and traffic is horrendous. Days when we lose our patience, harbor a bad attitude, and have had quite enough of family time. Days when we feel powerless against the exhaustion of our busy schedule and stress rules the roost.

It may seem that easy summers are long gone. However, we can make it through the hectic days and stay at peace despite the chaos. In Psalm 29:7 God promises He will help with whatever we face: "The LORD gives his people strength. The LORD blesses them with peace."

There are several keys to God's peace overriding the mayhem. When we remember to focus on God's sweet goodness, instead of all the scribbles on our calendar, we can be proactive in managing summertime. We can receive God's calm, even in a busy and sometimes stressful time of the year. Here are some specific ways to do so:

Focusing on all the good things God has done for us, instead of the challenges of summer.

Remaining calm and praying for God's peace when the demands of family and life seem overwhelming.

Asking God to give us rest and strength when we begin to feel stretched thin and worn out.

We can also take some additional steps to keep summer stress at bay. Such as:

Take daily mini-vacations. Try to set aside at least five minutes per hour to stretch and take a break.

When you take days off from your work or daily routine, unplug completely—meaning no phone or emails.

Keep a checklist or a detailed calendar of all scheduled activities.

Do something for yourself once a week: take a bubble bath, read a good book, spend time outdoors or take a nap.

Busyness and stress can heat up quicker than the summer sun. But it is possible to stay cool on the inside. Whether we are low in spirit or low in energy, depending on God and seeking a daily infusion of His strength and peace can ensure a less stressful summer.

Dear Jesus, sometimes I allow the chaos of summer to distract me from spending time with You. I neglect to claim Your peace and allow myself to get bogged down with the stressors of the season. I get frustrated with my children, rather than treasuring this time with them. Help me to focus on You when I begin to feel overcommitted and to seek Your peace with each rising sun. In Your Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
For more tips on having a less stressed summer, visit Tracie Miles' blog to sign up for her Stress-Less Summer Survival Series which kicks off today! This series includes tips for stay-at-home and working moms, working women, vacation planning, free checklists, back-to-school tips and more!

To begin this series, Tracie is giving away a summer gift basket worth $60! Visit her blog to enter to win!

Stressed-Less Living: Finding God's Peace in Your Chaotic World by Tracie Miles

I Used to Be So Organized by Glynnis Whitwer

Reflect and Respond:
Do the stressors of summer zap your strength and rob you of your joy and peace in Christ?

What can you do differently this summer than you have done in the past to prevent summer stress?

Power Verses:
Psalm 13:6, "I've thrown myself headlong into your arms—I'm celebrating your rescue. I'm singing at the top of my lungs, I'm so full of answered prayers." (MSG)

Proverbs 8:30, "Then I was constantly at his side. I was filled with delight day after day, rejoicing always in his presence." (NIV)

© 2013 by Tracie Miles. All rights reserved.

[Judy Harder]

July 2, 2013

A Gentle Touch
Glynnis Whitwer


"Moved with compassion, Jesus stretched out His hand and touched him, and said to him, 'I am willing; be cleansed'" Mark 1:41 (NASB)

The labor and delivery of my second child was fast. In fact, within two hours after the first inkling of pain, I was in the hospital being prepped for delivery. The intense pain surprised and overwhelmed me. Because of the rapid progression, I had no pain relief.

With my husband's hand squeezed in my left one, I looked into the face of the young nurse standing at my right, coaching me through the delivery. After an excruciating contraction, I asked, "Will you hold my hand?" She smiled and grabbed hold of my right hand while another wave of pain radiated through my body.

It sounded pitiful and needy to ask someone to hold my hand, but at that moment I needed her strength.

There have been other times I've needed to hold someone's hand. The first time I went snorkeling, I thought I was going to pass out I was hyperventilating so badly. I held my husband's hand on my left and my son's hand on my right until I could control my breathing and enjoy the incredible sights.

Hiking up Angel's Landing in Zion National Park, I held someone's hand when I wasn't grasping on to rocks.

I've held my mother's hand and my sisters' hands as we've walked through the pain of losing loved ones.

There's something about physical touch that brings comfort and stability in an uncertain world. The New Testament is filled with stories of Jesus touching those around Him. He laid His hands on women who had been scorned, children who were dancing at His feet and lepers ashamed of their faces.

In this world of virtual relationships, conversations managed via electronic devices and fear of inappropriate touch, I wonder if we are losing our physical connections to each other. And yet God designed us to need touch. In fact, it is critical to our health-both emotional and physical. Babies need touch for their brains to develop and children need touch for their emotions to develop. Experts say appropriate touch has a profound effect on the brain's programming and re-programming.

Perhaps it's time to become more intentional about offering loving and appropriate touch to others. We all need it, but often find it's awkward to accept and offer. My immediate family is very comfortable with touch, as my children have grown up with lots of physical affection. But I have to be intentional about reaching out to others in gentle and creative ways.

I have discovered reading the New Testament that the first believers were very affectionate with each other. In fact, at the end of Acts 20, we read that all the believers embraced and kissed Paul as he was leaving for a journey. They were also encouraged to greet each other with a holy kiss.

While I realize not everyone is ready to be touched with such intimacy, I am challenged to bring healthy touch into my relationships in greater measure. Whether it's a hug, pat on the head, stroke on the arm, or a holy kiss, touch is needed in our society. Maybe if we brought more healthy touch into our relationships, people wouldn't be driven to seek it in inappropriate ways.

For whatever reason, God designed us to need the physical touch of others. The next time you are at church, a family get-together or out with friends, challenge yourself to offer healthy touch to two or three people, especially those seniors in your midst. Become the person who offers a hug, rather than waiting for one.

Dear Lord, I know You designed us to need the touch of other people. It's not always easy to admit we need someone to hold our hand, or give us a hug. Help me to be more aware of the needs of those around me and to offer gentle touch in natural ways. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
Visit Glynnis Whitwer's blog for more encouragement.

Study different Scriptures where Jesus reached out and touched someone in the NIV Real-Life Devotional Bible for Women. We've sprinkled 366 devotions, written by our team, throughout this Bible to help encourage you.

Every day at Proverbs 31 Ministries, we get to touch the hearts of hurting women who call and email for help, prayer and encouragement. We're able to do this because of friends who partner with us. Will you help us continue touching lives with a small donation? Simply text MINISTRY to 50555 to give $10 to PROVERBS 31 MINISTRIES today. {When prompted, reply with YES to confirm your donation.}

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Reflect and Respond:
What are some reasons you refrain from offering a gentle touch to others?

How can you emulate Jesus' care for others, as seen in Scripture?

Power Verses:
Matthew 19:14-15, "But Jesus said, 'Let the children come to me. Don't stop them! For the Kingdom of Heaven belongs to those who are like these children.' And he placed his hands on their heads and blessed them before he left." (NLT)

1 Peter 5:14, "Greet one another with a kiss of love. Peace to all of you who are in Christ." (NIV)

© 2013 by Glynnis Whitwer. All rights reserved.

[Judy Harder]

July 3, 2013

I Didn't Sign up for This
Karen Ehman


"You intended to harm me, but God intended it all for good ..." Genesis 50:20a (NLT)

"I didn't sign up for this!" my friend moaned as we reviewed the printed class schedules we'd just picked up in the school office.

While I had gotten all my desired classes, she had been assigned one she had absolutely no interest in taking. She couldn't imagine spending four months stuck in a classroom studying something she disliked.

I tried to empathize, but truthfully I felt she was whining about a very minor issue. Her life, in my estimation, was absolutely fantastic. She came from a well-to-do family. Her parents had been happily married for over 25 years. She had a big extended family and fun get-togethers. She had straight teeth and a nearly-new car.

I, on the other hand, came from a family rocked by divorce and financial struggles. I had only one brother with whom I didn't get along. My car was old and ugly. My teeth needed braces, but the funds had never been available.

Hearing her complain about her schedule started my descent into self-pity as I compared my circumstances to hers.

The more I thought about the unfairness of my life, I reached the same conclusion she had when she spied that unwanted class: "I didn't sign up for this!"

My friend and I both felt stuck. However, our situations weren't life-threatening. They were issues we could work to change. We could learn the lessons God had for us by not always having a perfect life. And if truly unable to change parts of our circumstances, we could still change our attitudes.

A young man in Scripture, Joseph, also found himself smack dab in a heap of hassles and difficult situations he never signed up for. His jealous brothers sold him into slavery. He was whisked away to live in a foreign land. To top it off, he was falsely accused of raping his master's wife even though he tried his best to stay away from her. He even wound up in prison.

These unjust circumstances could have had him complaining, "I didn't sign up for this!" He could have retaliated against those who had caused his turmoil. But he didn't.

Joseph maintained a God-fearing, God-honoring attitude throughout his ordeals, even as a slave with no freedom in sight.

At the end of his life we get a glimpse into his continual Christ-like behavior. He'd risen from slave to governor of Egypt through his discernment and wisdom. When his brothers came to buy grain during a famine from the Egyptian authorities, they were shocked to see their younger brother—long thought dead—sitting in a position of power. They feared he would retaliate for the cruel things they did to him, but Joseph's response? "You intended to harm me, but God intended it all for good ..." (Genesis 50:20a).

Joseph refused to let life's hard knocks knock him off course, preventing him from living a life that pleased God. He believed in a God Who works all things together for good. By recognizing God's redemption of horrific circumstances, he found true spiritual freedom from self-pity, anger and retaliation. Instead he characterized what God wants of us in Micah 6:8b, "And what does the LORD require of you But to do justice, to love kindness, And to walk humbly with your God?" (NAS).

Today when I am tempted to whine as I compare my life with someone I perceive has an easier one, I remember Joseph, the slave-by-force. I want to emulate his attitude, be spiritually free, and walk in the ways of God.

It also prompts me to remember that today forced slavery still exists; women and children are forced into the sex-trafficking trade every day. These precious ones sit in atrocious circumstances due to no fault or choice of their own.

We enjoy simple freedoms they never get to experience. Unless ... we band together, purposing to do something about this awful practice. Could we dare to get our eyes off of our sometimes minor problems and spend time doing justice, acting kindly and humbly walking with God to help free these slaves?

No matter our circumstances, it's never too late to be free. Our God-honoring attitude that comes from a shift in perspective can help us find spiritual freedom. And our intentional actions can help others imprisoned in slavery find freedom, physically, spiritually and emotionally.

Dear Lord, help me take my eyes off of my circumstances and fix them solely upon You and Your plan so I can find true spiritual freedom and offer freedom to others. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
To learn more about trafficked slaves, visit Karen Ehman's blog where she is featuring Children's Hope Chest and giving away 20 books on this topic by Children's Hope Chest CEO Tom Davis.

Priceless: A Novel on the Edge of the World by Tom Davis

Reflect and Respond:
When you can't change the circumstances, how might you change your attitude, bringing it in line with Scripture?

Power Verse:
Romans 8:28, "We know that all things work together for the good of those who love God: those who are called according to His purpose." (HCSB)

© 2013 by Karen Ehman. All rights reserved.

[Judy Harder]

July 4, 2013

Afraid to Turn the Next Corner
Lysa TerKeurst


"Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose trust is the LORD. He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for its leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit." Jeremiah 17:7-8 (ESV)

You know how some people love the thrill of being surprised? They love surprise parties. They would love to show up at work one day and be told they are actually going on a surprise vacation and be whisked from their desk to paradise in just a few hours.

They would love to have one of those makeover shows pop up at their house with a film crew and be told they're getting a whole new wardrobe.

Surprises feel thrilling to them. Like the thrill some people get when a roller coaster ride they thought was over suddenly takes off again and starts doing upside down loops. They throw their hands in the air and embrace the thrill of the unknown.

They call that fun.

I don't.

I love a good birthday party. But I don't want it to be surprised.

I love a good vacation. But I don't want it to be planned for me.

I love winning stuff and would freely accept a gift certificate for a new wardrobe. But I don't want anyone to pick out the clothes for me.

I like (not love) a roller coaster. I don't mind when it finally crests the lift hill and then careens downward like the bottom just fell out of the world. But I don't want it to take unexpected twists and turns.

This dislike of surprises can usually be managed with all the things I mentioned.

My friends know not to throw me a surprise party. No one is looking to give me a surprise vacation or new wardrobe. And before getting on a roller coaster, I thoroughly check it out and know its patterned route.

But life is different.

Life twists and turns and throws loops into those places we think will be flat and smooth. Because that's what life does. Sometimes it all just catches us off guard.

And at the end of the day, I guess that's why I don't like to be surprised. I can't stand to get caught off guard. It makes me feel exposed and afraid.

But slowly, I'm learning God can bring good out of feeling exposed and afraid.

That vulnerable place reminds us we have needs beyond what we can manage by ourselves. It reminds us we need God. Desperately. Completely.

And into that gap between what we can manage on our own and what we can't, that's right where faith steps in and has the opportunity to find deep roots. Roots that dig down and break up previously unearthed places within us.

Our faith doesn't just need to grow big, it needs to grow deep. Yes, we need deep faith roots.

I want to have faith like the believer that Jeremiah describes as, "... a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for its leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit" (Jeremiah 17:.

Deep roots anchor us when surprises blow like strong, unruly winds.

Deep roots hold us steady during the storm that didn't show up on the radar.

Deep roots find nourishment when the surface gets awfully dry.

Deep roots allow for growth not previously possible.

Deep roots yield rich fruit.

So, I'm learning to not be so afraid of what might be around the next corner. Even if it does catch me off guard. I close my eyes and whisper ... "deeper still."

Dear Lord, deep roots of faith–that's what I need to grow today. Help me to trust in You above all else. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
Do you want to grow your faith? Lysa TerKeurst's book, What Happens When Women Say Yes to God, will help you do just that as you learn to walk in radical obedience to the Lord each day. Click here to purchase your copy!

Go deeper still with the new Online Bible Study of What Happens When Women Say Yes to God by Lysa. Join and participate from the comfort of your home, favorite coffee shop or park! For more information and to join, click here.

Reflect and Respond:
Is there something dividing your heart and distracting you from knowing God more?

Pray a courageous prayer. Ask God to show you one distraction you could distance yourself from to more fully embrace growing your faith.

Power Verses:
Psalm 52:8, "But I am like an olive tree flourishing in the house of God; I trust in God's unfailing love for ever and ever." (NIV)

© 2013 by Lysa TerKeurst. All rights reserved.

[Judy Harder]

July 5, 2013

Changing History through Prayer
Sharon Glasgow


"In her deep anguish Hannah prayed to the LORD, weeping bitterly. And she made a vow, saying, 'LORD Almighty, if you will only look on your servant's misery and remember me, and not forget your servant but give her a son, then I will give him to the LORD for all the days of his life ..." 1 Samuel 1:10-11a (NIV)

Hours before I was conceived, my mom got on her knees. "Lord, if You will give me a baby tonight I will dedicate it to You and for Your service all the days of its life. Amen." God answered her prayer that night, and all my days have been devoted to Him in large part due to the fervent prayers of my mom.

My mom followed in the footsteps of millions of mothers who prayed for their children. From the time of Samuel until this very day, some of our most influential Christian heroes became history makers because of their mothers' prayers.

Samuel's mother Hannah poured out her soul to the Lord for years, pleading for a son. Eventually, God granted her prayer requests with her son Samuel, who Hannah dedicated to the Lord (1 Samuel 1:10-11a). He grew in wisdom, became a great prophet and judge, and led the Israelites into victory over the mighty Philistines.

Susanna Wesley raised her sons, John (one of the greatest evangelists of the 1700's, speaking to crowds of more than 20,000) and Charles (who wrote over 9,000 hymns still sung today) in a home dedicated to the Word of God and prayer. In the midst of raising 10 children, she would spend two hours a day in personal prayer. On days she couldn't find a place of solitude, she would lift her apron over her head to be alone with God.

George Washington was known for his humility, perseverance and dignity. His mother Mary raised him and his siblings as a single mother after her husband died when George was 10. It is recorded that she went to a nearby rock outside her house to pray continually. George wrote letters to his mother while on the battlefield of the Revolutionary War, that he escaped death when bullets went through his coat and horses were shot out from under him. Miracle after miracle happened to George, and he honored his praying mother with these words: "All that I am I owe to my mother."

Billy Graham has led nearly three million people to freedom in Christ and has preached the Gospel to more than 80 million people during his lifetime. He has said of all the people he has ever known, his mother, Morrow, had the greatest influence on his life. She would gather the family to listen to the Bible and pray together. She and his dad would pray for Billy each morning at 10:00.

Every Christian mother contending, interceding and praying for her children has the potential to change the course of history for God's glory. Our world is in need of God-filled history makers to rise up. I'm going to pray more diligently than ever for our children and their future and will stand on these promises of God:

Matthew 21:22, "And whatever things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive" (NKJV).

John 14:13-14, "And whatever you ask in My name, that I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask anything in My name, I will do it" (NKJV).

I will pray as my mother, Hannah, Susanna, Mary, and Morrow did for their children. I will pray for my children and for generations to come with unwavering passion and persistence. Will you join me?

Let's rise up and be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might as we pray to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than we can think or imagine.

Father, You hear our prayers, and You promise to answer them, according to Your will. Teach me how to pray for my, and other's, children that they might become fishers of men and bring You glory. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
For more on praying for your children visit Sharon Glasgow's blog and enter to win a free Susanna Wesley Prayer Apron.

Scripture calls us to care for all children. In Fields of the Fatherless, Tom Davis shares God's heart for children and how we can be the hands and feet of Jesus to kids.

Prayers for a Woman's Soul by Julie Gillies

Reflect and Respond:
Pick several Scriptures to pray specifically for your children.

Write out your prayers for your children in a notebook or save them in a special file on your computer. As God answers them, record how He works. Keep this to pass down to your children.

Power Verse:
Colossians 1:9, "And so, from the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding ..." (ESV)

© 2013 by Sharon Glasgow. All rights reserved.

[Judy Harder]

July 8, 2013

Take the Plunge
Lynn Cowell


"I rejoice in your word like one who discovers a great treasure." Psalm 119:162 (NLT)

My husband and I had saved for a year to go snorkeling. With all the sacrifices we had made, I couldn't believe we were finally on the white sandy shore. Confidently, I grabbed my gear and prepared to jump into the clear blue water.

But it wasn't like I had imagined. The mask felt funny once I got it on; how was I supposed to breathe like that? My heart fluttered as anxiety grew.

My head screamed at me, dive in! Get out there. This is an opportunity of a lifetime! But my feet stayed planted on dry ground. Though Greg pleaded with me, even came and took my hand to lead me out to the deep water, I never got past the rocky shore that day.

Twenty years later, my chance came again. Starting a few months before the trip, I gave myself a talking-to every day. Go for it, Lynn! It will be worth it. Just dive in and don't look back! I recited this pep talk as I waded in the ocean.

My heart began pounding again, but I kept going. Encouraging voices beckoned me to come farther out where the schools of rainbow-colored fish swam. Holding my breath, I peeked under the water, shocked to see the cobalt blue and golden yellow creations. I even swam with a sea turtle! Before I knew it, an hour had passed.

Did I want to quit? Some moments I did, but I reminded myself of all I was gaining by staying out away from the shore.

There was a time when I avoided "diving" deeper into Scripture. My schedule was always short on time. Not to mention I felt intimidated by stories I didn't understand and challenges that made me feel "less than."

I relieved any guilt I felt about not studying the Bible by reading a verse or two here and there. Yet, like that young woman on the rocky shore so many years ago, I knew I was missing out by not going deeper.

When I became part of a leadership team at my church, I had to take the plunge. The group's accountability helped me be consistent in reading and studying the Bible. The daily homework navigated me as I learned to go below the surface. I found I loved it!

Years later, I can't wait to hang out with Jesus and learn what He has to say to me each day. I still participate in a group Bible study now and then, but what I enjoy most is going through my Bible on my own.

When we study God's Word, He reveals who He is and His plans and heart for us. As we explore different verses, their original Greek and Hebrew meanings, the culture the text was written in, and how verses tie in together, it's like coming upon a gold mine. See how the psalmist put it: "I rejoice in your word like one who discovers a great treasure" (Psalm 119:162).

It was one thing to hear my husband's experience of snorkeling 20 years ago when I waited on the shore. But, his stories came to life when I dipped my head under water and discovered for myself the beautiful coral, shimmering fish and vibrant colors.

In the same way, it's wonderful to hear what others have to say about Scriptures they have studied, to listen to sermons or to read books. But it's really amazing to dive in ourselves. Studying God's Word opens our eyes, heart and mind to learn from Him about His ways, His will and His direction for us. So go ahead, take the plunge. What are you waiting for?

Lord, the only thing holding me back from discovering the depths in Your Word is me. Empower me to be disciplined and help me to hear Your voice as I study Your Word. Amen.

Related Resources:
Devotions for a Revolutionary Year: 365 Days of Jesus' Radical Love by Lynn Cowell is a book to help your daughter get her feet wet and take the plunge for the deep water of God's Word.

Looking for a way you can connect to your daughter and learn God's Word together? His Revolutionary Love: Jesus' Radical Pursuit of You by Lynn Cowell is for girls ages 13-18. It's a great study for moms and girls to bond over!

Visit Lynn's website where she shares her favorite ways to study God's Word. She's also giving away a signed copy of "Devotions for a Revolutionary Year" as well as a tool to help you study God's Word.

Dive deep into Scripture with the new NIV Real-Life Devotional Bible for Women, filled with 366 devotions written by the Proverbs 31 Ministries team. Take the plunge by clicking here.

Reflect and Respond:
What hinders you from spending time alone with Jesus?

In the next 24 hours, carve out a time for just you and God. You may need to set your alarm clock earlier. You may need to stay up later. Be intentional.

Power Verse:
Jeremiah 15:16, "When your words came, I ate them; they were my joy and my heart's delight, for I bear your name, LORD God Almighty." (NIV)

© 2013 by Lynn Cowell. All rights reserved.

[Judy Harder]

July 9, 2013

Dancing with Daddy
Sheila Mangum


"You turned my wailing into dancing; you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy, that my heart may sing your praises and not be silent. LORD my God, I will praise you forever." Psalm 30:11-12 (NIV)

My father was an alcoholic. Sadly, the disease consumed him and when he couldn't find a way out, he committed suicide. His death affected my life in so many ways, and I missed his presence regularly. But one of the hardest times was at my wedding.

My wedding day was not what I had dreamed of. I glanced over to where my father should have been and saw an empty chair. The beauty of the father-daughter dance and him giving me away was a moment I would have treasured and framed.

But there was no photograph of our dance or of him handing me to my husband. Those pictures and memories were stolen from me. My wedding dress hid my vulnerable heart and my flowing veil covered my sad eyes.

In my brokenness, it felt like my father, by his suicide, abandoned me. I thought I was different because of the shame and loss and never really had a sense of belonging. In many ways, I felt like an orphan. Thankfully, I still had my mother who encouraged me that our faithful God would send someone into my life at the times when I needed a father figure.

My mom was right. God did send a father to take my dad's place. He arranged for someone to care for my needs, to nurture my wounded heart and be the solid foundation that a girl needs in a father. He sweetly sent someone who would not abandon me.

God didn't hand-select a pastor, uncle, in-law or godly man whom He trusted to show me love the way I needed. No, God sent Himself as a Father to me and my crippled heart. He fulfilled what He promises in Psalm 68:5, "A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in his holy dwelling" (NIV).

The Fatherhood of God has created a healthy, trustworthy relationship with me that would never have happened if He hadn't helped me overcome the sadness of the loss of my earthly father. He saved me from my doubts and insecurities.

God has been so very faithful to give to me what the years my childhood of insecurity and immaturity stole from me: wisdom and discernment. He's promised to restore back to me everything that's been stolen, even the memory of a father-daughter dance.

The Bible describes in vivid detail the beauty that is to come for those of us who have chosen to follow Jesus. Revelation 19:7 says, "Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory! For the wedding of the Lamb has come, and his bride has made herself ready" (NIV).

There is a wedding where my Father will be. His presence will be known. His seat will be filled. His love will surround the place where there will be no tears or pain. At the wedding of the Lamb, I will finally have a dance with my Daddy.

I will take the hand that created me (Colossians 1:16). I will hold the palm that has my name written on it (Isaiah 49:16). He will lead me to all righteousness, just as He has taught me through life (Psalm 23:3). I will look into the eyes that are watching me now (Psalm 145:20). I will be held in the arms that I have run to so many times (Proverbs 18:10). I will be face-to-face with the One whose love has never failed me (Psalm 31:16). I will dance with my Father on that day.

Do you need a Father who never will leave you? Do you need security, love and devotion? Your Heavenly Father is the One who holds your heart safely in His capable hands. You are His most treasured possession. He wants to nurture you. Ask God today to heal your heart with His Fatherly love and set your hopes on eternity and a future dance.

Can He have this dance?

Father, You are trustworthy, true to Your Word and truly extravagant in Your love. You will never leave nor forsake me. Thank You for Your care for me. Amen.

Related Resources:
Visit Sheila Mangum's blog and sign up for a free eBook, 31 Secrets of a Proverbs 31 Woman.

A Confident Heart: How to Stop Doubting Yourself and Live in the Security of God's Promises by Renee Swope

The Unburdened Heart: Finding the Freedom of Forgiveness by Suzanne Eller

Reflect and Respond:
Write this on a note card and place it where you can see it:

You are MY daughter and I adore you. I watch your every move and direct your every step. I have a future planned and purposed for your good. Your heart is safe with Me. I promise. May I have this dance?

Love,
God

Power Verse:
Ephesians 1:5, "He predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will." (NIV)

© 2013 by Sheila Mangum. All rights reserved.

[Judy Harder]

July 10, 2013

When You're Angry at God
Micca Campbell


"LORD my God, I called to you for help, and you healed me." Psalms 30:2 (NIV)

As I waited for my husband to return from surgery, I began to worry. It was taking longer than the doctor had said it would. Since over 80% of my husband's body had been burned during the house fire, I feared the surgery would be too much for him.

My worst fears were confirmed when the doctor walked into the waiting room, still in his surgical clothes, and knelt down beside my chair. My heart began to pound as he explained that my husband had gone into cardiac arrest and though they were trying everything they could to resuscitate, they feared they had lost him. Immediately, I cried out for God to save him.

I still remember my desperate plea: God, I realize if my husband lives he most likely won't keep his arms. I understand what that means. He'll never hold me again or play ball with our son. But I don't care, God. Please let him live!

As the clock ticked down, there was no response. After some time, it finally hit me: he had already left me.

After the funeral was over and the people were gone, I realized I was alone, a new mother, and a 21-year-old widow. I was very angry God had allowed for things to turn out this way.

One desperate night, when the pain was more than I could stand, I cried out, Why, God? Why did You take him away from me? Oh, God. I need to know, why!

Have you ever been angry with God?

We've all made requests to God that didn't turn out like we had hoped. When that happens, it's easy to become confused about Him. We start to wonder if He heard us or just said "No" to our prayer. What we are certain of is the anger we feel toward the Lord's ways.

It's important to express our upset emotions to the Lord. But we have to view our circumstances through the lens of God's grace: everything He does is without fault and is always right. Look at Psalm 30:2, "LORD my God, I called to you for help, and you healed me." Rather than ignoring our pain or not sharing our anger with God (which is silly because He already knows), we should confess our anger and seek His healing.

When I was completely honest with God that night, what happened next took me by surprise: God showed up!

I can only explain it like this. Just as a mother runs to her screaming child, God, the Father, ran to me—His child. I didn't see Him with my eyes or touch Him with my hands, but I knew He was with me. It comforted me. This encounter with God became a turning point in my healing. I realized God understood my frailties and feelings ... and He was big enough to handle them.

If you're angry with God, tell Him. Lay your heart open before God. Acknowledge that even while you don't understand what's happened, you trust He can make everything work out.

It took me a while to see how my circumstances could be used for God's glory and my good. I didn't get my husband back, but I did get a closer relationship with God. A few years later, I re-married, had two more beautiful children, and began a ministry of comfort. God also healed my heart from the pain of loss and the scars anger left.

I'm glad I was honest with God when I cried out in anger to Him. You will be too.

Dear Lord, there is so much hurt and anger inside of me. I'm tired of living this way. I'm giving it to You to heal my hurt. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
This devotion was taken from Micca Campbell's book, An Untroubled Heart; Finding a Faith That is Stronger than All My Fears.

Visit Micca's blog for a list for verses that sustained her when she couldn't make sense of all that was happening in her life.

Find refreshing hope and healing in the new NIV Real-Life Devotional Bible for Women, filled with God's truth and 366 devotions by the Proverbs 31 Ministries team.

When you purchase resources through Proverbs 31 Ministries, you touch eternity because your purchase supports the many areas of hope-giving ministry we provide at no cost. We wish we could, but we simply can't compete with prices offered by huge online warehouses. Therefore, we are extremely grateful for each and every purchase you make with us. Thank you!

Reflect and Respond:
How do you feel when God doesn't respond the way you hope? Are you ready to share those feelings with God? Why or why not?

Power Verse:
Psalms 46:1, "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble." (ESV)

© 2013 by Micca Campbell. All rights reserved.

[Judy Harder]

July 12, 2013

Healing Your Marriage
Stephanie Clayton


"Jesus answered her, 'If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water.'" John 4:10 (NIV)

I try so hard, and for what? I get nothing in return.

Things will never change. I have been praying for years. I'm ready to give up.

Maybe I just married the wrong person. Why do I have to stay in a marriage when I am miserable?

I just want him to notice me ...

These are the cries of a burned out, emotionally drained wife. How do I know? Because I have been there.

The first eight years of my marriage were rough. My husband and I were young and had a difficult time making decisions and just doing life together. He wanted one thing and I wanted another. Would we ever see eye-to-eye? Would he be able to meet my needs? Desperately desiring happiness, I began to resent him rather than dealing with the actual root of my sadness and lack of fulfillment ... which was my past.

I entered our marriage with a great deal of hurt from my past that I refused to deal with. Unrealistically, I expected when I got married, this hurt would disappear. But it didn't. It hung on. And I became bitter toward my husband for not being enough to right the wrongs in my life.

But the truth is, it wasn't my husband's responsibility to be my cure-all. Even if he had tried, no one and no thing on earth could have fixed the hurt or filled my emptiness. No, I had to find my healing and hope in something else. The answer to my dissatisfaction was found in John 4 in the story of another unhappy woman.

One day this woman, who had been married five times and was now living with another man, went to draw water from a well. There she met Jesus. Seeing clear through her hurt and pain, and recognizing her heart's desire to be loved, Jesus shared this life-changing truth with her:

"'If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water. ... Whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst'" (vs. 10, 14a).

Jesus invited her into a relationship with Him. Not because He wanted to take the place of any husband or man in her life, but because He wanted to take a higher position within her heart. He offered to be her all-satisfying Savior.

Jesus invited this heart-parched woman to drink from Him and be refreshed, cheered, revived, comforted, and so much more. He assured her that in Him, she would never thirst again.

So often we look to our husbands (or other people, positions, or possessions) with unrealistic expectations, wanting them to offer what only Christ can: perfect healing, unending love, and sufficient validation.

But every marriage has its seasons. There will be times when you feel deeply fulfilled, and there will be times you may feel stark, barren and empty. That is why it is important to look to Christ alone for your value and fulfillment. He is your only Savior.

How do you do this? Get to know Him, just like you did your husband when you were dating! Study the Bible, pray and spend time alone with God daily. Replace thoughts of unworthiness, doubt or belittling with truth you find in Scripture.

With time, God healed our marriage. It took me going to counseling to deal with my past and a godly man to mentor my husband. As we began to find personal satisfaction in our individual relationships with Christ, we simultaneously began to grow closer to each other. The first step to restoring our marriage, though, was accepting the Lord's exclusive invitation to drink the water only He provides.

Will you accept it today too? He's offering you living water. Let's drink deep and allow the healing to begin.

Father, thank You for sending Your Son, Jesus, to have a relationship with me. Help me seek Him and find my satisfaction in Him alone. As that happens, please heal me and my marriage. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
Visit Stephanie Clayton's blog for more encouragement!

A Confident Heart by Renee Swope will help you find the soul-satisfying love and assurance your heart longs for!

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Reflect and Respond:
Take an honest assessment: do you expect your husband to make the pain from your past better, to fulfill you and to be your source of happiness?

Take time today to get to know Jesus by studying Scripture and praying.

Power Verse:
Isaiah 55:1, "Come, everyone who thirsts, come to the waters; and he who has no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without price." (ESV)

© 2013 by Stephanie Clayton. All rights reserved.