Encouragement for Today

[Judy Harder]

 August 27, 2013

God's Got You
Suzie Eller


"No one will be able to stand against you as long as you live. For I will be with you as I was with Moses. I will not fail you or abandon you." Joshua 1:5 (NLT)

Two-year-old Luke stood at the edge of the pool. Yellow floaties hugged his arms. A swim diaper padded his bathing suit. Sweet little goggles made him look like a frog.

I stood waist deep in water, my arms open wide. "Come on, buddy. You can do this."

He edged closer and peered in, then backed away. After several steps back and forth, Luke finally sat on the edge and dipped his toes in the water. I slipped next to him, scooped him up and held him close.

Into the water we went. "I got you, buddy. I got you," I whispered.

He could have fought me, but he trusted instead. Over the next two hours, Luke gained courage to go farther and farther. Any time he felt frightened, he whispered under his breath, "I got you, buddy. I got you." It was his assurance that no matter how scary it felt, he was not alone.

Sometimes knowing we aren't alone gives us the courage to press on. It's what Joshua needed when he was thrust overnight into leadership after the death of Moses. Up until that time, Joshua had served as assistant. But in his new role, Joshua led the nation of Israel, conquering the land God had promised and leading three separate conquests.

While the Bible doesn't detail all of Joshua's emotions during this time, we read of numerous instances where God encouraged Joshua to be "strong and courageous." God must have known Joshua needed some reassurance.

Perhaps Joshua had doubts. Perhaps his confidence waned. Maybe he even asked questions like, God, are You sure? Shouldn't You choose someone more qualified?

God didn't dismiss Joshua's fears or shame him for having them. Instead He spoke clearly to Joshua, saying, "... I will be with you as I was with Moses. I will not fail you or abandon you" (Joshua 1:5b).

I got you, buddy. I got you.

History shows that Joshua took steps of faith and served as a powerful, humble leader, trusting God through war, human frailty and victory.

Maybe God has been asking you to take a leap into deeper faith, or to serve beyond what you think you are capable. He's asked you to lead. To love like Jesus.

Perhaps you've come close, but backed away. Maybe you even dipped your toes in, reasoning that was enough.

Questions linger. What does God see in me that I might not see yet? What if I fail? What if it's too hard or no one is on board with me? What if I don't recognize God's help and miss my opportunity?

God is aware of your fears. And He whispers the same encouragement to you that He spoke to Joshua. He's got you.

Not too long ago, I stood in the pool again. Luke wore his floaties. He had on his swim diaper. His cute goggles made him look like a little frog. I held open my arms, and my little guy jumped with glee into my arms.

And this time, I didn't have to say it, because he knew it. It was ingrained on his heart.

I got you, buddy. I got you.

Dear Jesus, I've stood right on the edge, waiting for You to choose someone else, or naming all the reasons I'm not equipped. Today I hear Your voice and I take that step, for You are with me. In Jesus' Name, amen.

Related Resources:
Do You Know Jesus?

Visit Suzie Eller's blog for a printable that shares five ways God demonstrates His faithfulness as you take a leap of faith.

Get acquainted with God's faithful character through the pages of the Real-Life Devotional Bible for Women with 366 devotions included.

Reflect and Respond:
Most large dreams or jobs are comprised of many smaller tasks. What is one small step you can take, beginning today?

Why are you afraid to try? Ask the Lord to release you from that fear and to trust Him.

Power Verses:
Joshua 1:9, "This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go." (NLT)

© 2013 by Suzie Eller. All rights reserved.

[Judy Harder]

August 28, 2013

Hidden Hardships Behind Closed Doors
Sharon Glasgow


"On the day I called, You answered me; You made me bold with strength in my soul." Psalm 138:3 (NASB)

Hidden behind the door of many homes is the reality of hardship. A devastated home isn't always apparent on first impressions, is it?

Take Susanna Wesley's life for instance. A quick glance reveals she was married to a preacher in the late 1600s. They had 10 children, two of which grew up to bring tens of thousands of people to Christ: John and Charles Wesley. Sounds like a sweet story, doesn't it?

But if we look behind the door of her home, hard conditions were the norm. Her husband, Sam, couldn't (or wouldn't) manage their finances well. They disagreed on everything from money to politics. This couple actually had 19 children; sadly, nine died in infancy. Sam left Susanna for long periods of time—sometimes over something as simple as an argument—leaving the duty of raising their children to her alone.

One of their children was unable to walk. Another couldn't talk until the age of six. Susanna herself was desperately sick most of her life. Their home burned to the ground twice; everything they owned crumbled to ashes. One of her daughters became pregnant out of wedlock. They had no money for food or necessities. Sam even went to debtor's prison.

Long before Susanna had an inkling of how difficult her married life would be, she made the Lord a promise. When she was young, Susanna committed that for every hour she spent in entertainment, she would give the same amount of time to Him in prayer and in the Word.

Taking care of the house and raising so many kids made this commitment nearly impossible to fulfill. She had no time for either entertainment or long hours in prayer! This wife and mother worked the gardens, milked the cow, schooled the children and managed the entire house herself.

It would have been understandable if Susanna reneged on her promise to the Lord. But she didn't. Instead, she gave the Lord two hours a day in prayer!

As you can imagine with 10 kids, she struggled to find a quiet place to get away with God. So she advised her children that when her apron was over her head, that meant she was in prayer and couldn't be disturbed.

Susanna was devoted to her walk with Christ, praying for her children, and growing in the knowledge of the Word ... no matter how hard life was.

This dedicated woman's story may have never been known to anyone but the Lord and her children, except for the fact that her example greatly inspired two of her sons. They both said that their mom influenced them more than any other person.

John and Charles Wesley became powerhouses for the glory of the Lord. John preached to nearly a million people in the 1700s. He brought revival everywhere he traveled and taught the Word of God! Charles wrote over 9000 hymns, many of which we still sing today.

In the middle of great hardships, Susanna consistently tapped into her source of strength. She connected intentionally with the Lord every day. It's amazing how her choices influenced not only her family, but also countless individuals, families and worshippers over the years.

Hidden behind the door of my home, I want my children to see a mom who prays, no matter how busy I am or how hard my circumstances. I'm going to continue letting Susanna's example influence me. How about you?

Dear Lord, I need Your wisdom, peace and strength. Help me to rely on You and not myself. In Jesus' Name, amen.

Related Resources:
Do You Know Jesus?

Visit Sharon Glasgow's blog for more encouragement through hardships.

Life is full of obligations, emotions and relationships. Some are life-giving, yet sometimes the weight of everyday life is heavy. We long for someone who understands. You'll find that friend in the pages of Encouragement for Today: Devotionals for Everyday Living.

Reflect and Respond:
How much time are you spending with Jesus every day in prayer and in the Word?

Make a plan for how you can increase your time with Him. When your kids grow up, how will they describe how you handled hardships?

Power Verses:
Proverbs 31:28a, "Her children arise up, and call her blessed ..." (KJV)

1 Chronicles 16:11, "Seek the LORD and his strength, seek his face continually." (KJV)

© 2013 by Sharon Glasgow. All rights reserved.

[Judy Harder]

August 29, 2013

The Day My Fragile Identity as a Mom Melted
Lysa TerKeurst


"Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it." Proverbs 22:6 (NIV)

She had the most angelic sweetheart lips. Eyes blue as the most tranquil oceans. Blonde ringlet curls. Chubby cheeks begging to be kissed over and over. Little hands that instinctively curled around my finger while simultaneously melting my heart.

Pure sweetness wrapped in a pink blanket.

And then came the day this little creature pursed those lips, gripped the toy in her hand, tilted her pigtailed head and screamed, "Mine! Mine! Mine!"

The fuss was over a small red toy my friend had let her borrow. My friend who was much more organized than me. She had brought along toys and baggies of Cheerios to keep the kids entertained during our coffee date. The plan to use this toy as temporary entertainment had worked beautifully. Until it was time to go.

I could feel a burning flush of embarrassment rush from my chest to my face.

Of course my friend's child was shining her halo with one hand while happily handing over her yellow toy with the other.

"Mine! Mine!" My daughter screamed as every eye in the small java joint stared at me.

I pried the toy from her hand, thanked my friend, and hoisted my kicking and screaming daughter out of the wooden highchair. And then in slow motion, I watched in horror as she knocked my paper coffee cup from my hand and sent it careening across the floor.

I felt my fragile identity as a mom melt into the puddle of spilled coffee. What happened to my angel? My beautiful daughter was ... not so angelic.

It's been many years since that day in the coffee shop.

But oh how I wish I could go back and sit with my little inexperienced mommy self on the drive home.

I would say, "Your daughter is a child in need of a parent. She needs to be taught. And some of your best teaching opportunities will come when she puts her sin nature on display. Don't fear or fret or feel like this is some sort of failure on your part. Her outside demonstrations are an internal indication of her need for guidance. So guide her. Love her. And always remember to be the parent. Not her friend. Not her buddy. The parent."

I needed to know what Proverbs 22:6 teaches, "Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it."

That daughter is 19 years old now. And is an absolute delight.

But growing her up wasn't always easy. There were many more times when she put her sin nature on display. And each time I had to choose to be the parent.

It's not easy to be the parent. It seems less and less popular to tell kids no.

As parents, we need to set biblical boundaries. Teach our kids the difference between realistic and unrealistic expectations. Not cater to their every whim. Draw lines between what's appropriate and inappropriate for language, entertainment, and the length of a hemline. Model manners. And what it looks like to seek a life of godliness, not just religious activity.

Glory knows I've been so imperfect with all this.

But holding the line on being the parent, even when done imperfectly, is good.

And will be worth it.

Even in those seasons where you feel as if they're doing everything the opposite of what you've taught them. All that parenting is in them. And the fruit of that will emerge one day.

Yes, be the parent. Teach biblical truths. Stand strong in saying no even when it's not the popular choice.

That's what our kids need so desperately.

And be encouraged, friend ... you're doing better than you think you are.

Dear Lord, You know better than all of us that parenting is hard. Help me to see each day as a teaching opportunity to raise up a child who loves You. In Jesus' Name, amen.

Related Resources:
Wouldn't it be great to go into this school year stress-free? You can! Click here to join us for the "No More Unglued Mama Mornings Challenge." We're taking five days to make mornings better with our kids!

For more on looking to the Lord for what you need each day as a mom, check out Lysa TerKeurst's book, Am I Messing Up My Kids? Click here to purchase your copy!

Reflect and Respond:
Take a moment to think: how and what am I communicating to my children?

Read today's power verses for a better understanding of just how important it is to raise a child to follow after the Lord.

Power Verses:
Isaiah 54:13, "All your children will be taught by the LORD, and great will be their peace. (NIV)

2 Timothy 3:14-15, "But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it, and how from infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus." (NIV)

© 2013 by Lysa TerKeurst. All rights reserved.

[Judy Harder]

 August 30, 2013

If God Does Not Rescue Us
Samantha Evilsizer


"If the God we serve exists, then He can rescue us from the furnace of blazing fire, and He can rescue us from the power of you, the king. But even if He does not rescue us, we want you as king to know that we will not serve your gods ..." Daniel 3:17-18a (HCSB)

She whisked the tears away fast, like a sailor scooping water from a sinking ship. My friend was trying hard to keep her heart from going under.

She'd been carrying the joy of what she thought was a new life on the way. But this was a hope to be deferred. It wasn't time. She wasn't sure if it'd ever be time.

Desperate aches to hold a baby of her own had begun to dictate her thoughts, emotions and actions. And she recognized she had to face a few big questions before they consumed her.

Would her longing to rest her cheek against a soft head crowd out her praise to God? Might her days be full of trust in Him, even if her womb remained empty? Could she stand in awe of all God had already done ... or would she bow to discontentment and disbelief in His goodness and power?

As she sat with me, my friend knew it was time to stand and face the music. Much like three young Israelite men, Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, did in the book of Daniel.

These Israelites had been captured by the Babylonians. Many years into their captivity, the fanatical King Nebuchadnezzar held a ceremony. To fulfill his craving to be feared and obeyed, he demanded the people bow and worship a 90-foot golden idol when special music was played. If they didn't, death by a scorching furnace was certain.

Everyone kneeled facedown; everyone but these three men of God. They stood above the crowd and literally faced the music.

Going against the royal edict had sealed their fate, or so the king thought. Scripture tells the rest of their story: "Then in a furious rage Nebuchadnezzar gave orders to bring in Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. ... 'if you don't worship it, you will immediately be thrown into a furnace of blazing fire—and who is the god who can rescue you from my power?'" (v. 13a, 15b HCSB).

Little did the king realize the depth of confidence these men had in their God. They knew their fate was held by Him, not determined by the king's whims. Listen to how they responded. "If the God we serve exists, then He can rescue us from the furnace of blazing fire, and He can rescue us from the power of you, the king.

But even if He does not rescue us, we want you as king to know that we will not serve your gods ..." (v. 16b-18a HCSB)

Their strong rebuttal threw cold water on the king's burning demands. I love their resolute belief. Especially because the word rescue in this context indicates possibility, not certainty.

They were assured in knowing that God possibly would ... and definitely could ... but He certainly might not save them.

God miraculously rescuing them from the antics of Nebuchadnezzar wasn't their focus. Instead, they fixed their hearts on the fact God is good and wise and can be trusted, no matter the outcome. They stood against the lure to desire anything—even their lives—more than God.

Almost a year after our conversation, I spotted my friend at church. I knew it hadn't been an easy year for her. Though her arms still didn't hold a baby, she was clinging tightly to her God—facing the music, remaining faithful. She was worshiping with all her heart.

God, sometimes I don't understand Your ways. They fly in the face of my desires. Help me recognize doubt, frustration and fear as an indication that I am longing for something more than I long for You. Help me trust and love You. Amen.

Related Resources:
Find lasting encouragement and truth in the Real-Life Devotional Bible for Women.

Sometimes it's not easy to stand alone. We've compiled 100 devotionals in Encouragement for Today from our team's heart to yours, to lift you up with God's hope and truth.

Click here to join Samantha Evilsizer's Facebook page More Than Enough, a growing community of Christ-minded women who encourage one another.

Reflect and Respond:
Take a moment to feel the gravity of the declaration Shadrach, Meschach and Abednego made: "But even if He does not rescue us, we want you as king to know that we will not serve your gods ..."

Is there a desire of your heart that God has not granted? What would change if you actively chose to long for God more than that desire?

Power Verse:
Mark 12:30, "And you must love the LORD your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all your strength." (NLT)

© 2013 by Samantha Evilsizer. All rights reserved.

[Judy Harder]

September 2, 2013

Embrace the Wait
Karen Ehman


"I say to myself, 'The Lord is my portion; therefore I will wait for him.'" Lamentations 3:24 (NIV)

My three young kids were playing near her feet in her assisted-living home. "How busy things must be at your house these days. Why I'd give anything to be able to spend an ordinary day with my children all little again. What joy!"

What joy? What was my husband's 90 year-old grandmother talking about?! As a worn-out mom I wanted the kids to get to the next stages in their lives and fast! For one to walk, another to stop wearing diapers and the third to learn to read. I wasn't joyful. I was anxious.

Now that two of my three kids have graduated from high school, I know what Grandma meant. I'd love to rewind the clock and experience one more ordinary day with my babies. If only I could make time wait, instead of waiting on time to pass.

Even so, I still have a hard time applying this lesson in the wait. Each morning I wait in the school carpool line. In the afternoon, I wait for my son's football practice to wrap up. Sometimes the coach keeps the team after for a pep talk. Some days it's a lengthy one. And so I sit. The minutes tick by threatening to tick me off.

You see, I don't like to wait.

Just this past week I waited in line at the grocery store, sat in the waiting room at the dentist's office, and lingered at the airport, anxious to board my plane. I spent hours at the DVM (Department of Motor Vehicles) so my son could get his driver's permit.

While these types of hindrances are short-lived, waiting for the next big thing can take longer and be harder. We wait on Prince Charming to appear, our house to sell, our child to take his first steps, a better job, financial relief, or physical or emotional healing to come to us or a loved one.

Just like when my kids were young, instead of patiently embracing these harder times, I have a tendency to want to rush them. I long for my circumstances to hurry up and change. To fast-forward to the next thing. But Scripture teaches us how to make it through these difficult seasons.

In those waiting times, even when life is hard, God says to us, I'll be what you need while you wait.

God steps in to be our portion for that day. He is in the wait and we'll sense that if only we will look for Him rather than always looking ahead to the next stage of life.

He was my portion as a little girl while I daydreamed about becoming a woman.

He was my portion as a woman when I waited to become a bride.

He was my portion as a new bride as I longed to become a mom.

He was my portion as a young mom as I looked forward to easier days.

And He is my portion now as I am learning to look to God when my impatient heart waits for the day when my husband and I retire and can travel more.

The point of life is not to keep looking ahead, but to look to the Lord to be our portion at every stage of life. Will you seek Him as you sit and wait? It makes the lingering have meaning. And tethers our hearts to His as we use these times to pray and ponder His goodness. Yes, right in the midst of those in-between times. It even makes the waiting sweeter.

But I still suggest you bring along a good book to the DMV!

Dear Lord, help me embrace the wait and look for You to be my portion during the in-between times of life. In Jesus' Name, amen.

Related Resources:
Need more encouragement to embrace the wait? Click here to visit Karen Ehman's blog where she's interviewing author Jeff Goins and offering a giveaway of his new book The In-Between: Embracing the Tension Between Now and the Next Big Thing.

LET. IT.GO. How to Stop Running the Show & Start Walking in Faith by Karen Ehman

A great book to give you God's perspective in times of waiting (and to read at the DMV!) is our brand new Encouragement for Today: Devotionals for Everyday Living.

Reflect and Respond:
What next big thing are you waiting for in life? How could focusing on God as your portion help the wait to be easier?

Power Verse:
Romans 8:25, "But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience. (ESV)

© 2013 by Karen Ehman. All rights reserved.

[Judy Harder]

September 3, 2013

Your Easiest Day is Always Tomorrow
Glynnis Whitwer


"The appetite of the lazy craves, and gets nothing, while the appetite of the diligent is richly supplied." Proverbs 13:4 (NRSV)

Numbers intimidate me. So I put off doing anything that involves counting more digits than are on my hands and feet combined. This approach tends to have significant consequences, especially when those numbers are connected to dollars. Hence a few bounced check charges in my banking history.

Avoiding uncomfortable (but necessary) parts of life is a dangerous habit to develop. With very few exceptions, problems don't resolve on their own, no matter how long we procrastinate in fixing them. A leaky faucet never stops leaking by itself. A root of bitterness toward my husband will grow. The squeal in my car brakes will get louder. And putting off medical tests is never a good idea.

I've also delayed pursuing dreams because there's discomfort involved. Maybe you've done this too. Your dream could be to write a book, take a vacation or find a new job. But you know it will involve sacrifice, so you put your dream on the back burner while time slips away.

Sometimes God tells me to wait while He initiates a solution, but usually, the reason for my delay tactics is my own fear of the work, or the possibility of failure, or the inconvenience and self-sacrifice it will take.

A few years ago I read a book by Josh Riebock that helped give me perspective when I want to postpone a difficult assignment. In it, he says, "Everyone can change tomorrow. Everyone solves problems tomorrow. But the only changes that matter are the ones I make today. Tomorrow is the easiest day I'll ever live. Today is the scary one, which is probably why I've spent so much time avoiding it."

Scripture also offers wisdom about dealing with procrastination. Proverbs 13:4 uses some challenging words, but it also includes hope: "The appetite of the lazy craves, and gets nothing, while the appetite of the diligent is richly supplied" (NRSV). This verse gets to the heart of the matter, which is my hunger. While I bristle at being called lazy, the reality is when I procrastinate, I am hungering for comfort or safety. I might be busy, but I'm never accomplishing anything when my goal is ease.

It's easy to know I shouldn't procrastinate, but it's much harder to do something about it. That's because my reasons are mixed. Sometimes I am afraid like Riebock says, and sometimes I am lazy like the Bible says. Other times I'm overwhelmed and can't think straight.

Whatever the cause of my procrastination, I've found some approaches that help combat my reticence to tackle an assignment. And it starts with something easy:

I present my concerns to God with honesty. I tell God why I don't want to do something and ask for His help, strength, wisdom and courage. When I'm honest about my hesitations, God can start to build up my weak places. But then I get practical.

I keep my to-do list short and manageable. Long to-do lists discourage me from doing anything. That's why I keep two lists going at all times: A master list of projects and a to-do list for the day or week.

I divide big tasks into smaller tasks. For example, I needed a better filing system for organizing receipts for taxes. So the next time I went to the office product store, I purchased hanging files and a desktop organizer and moved that project forward.

I assign small tasks to a specific day. Instead of doing a lot of things I don't like on one day, I'll spread them throughout the week.

Whether it's numbers or words that intimidate you. A relationship that needs to be addressed, or a dream that needs to be followed. There is nothing we have to handle alone or in our own power. The truth is God has already gone ahead of us into these scary places. He knows the future and He's already got it under control.

Heavenly Father, thank You for going ahead of me when I want to hold back. Help me to deal honestly with my reasons for procrastinating and allow You to work in my heart and life. In Jesus' Name, amen.

Related Resources:
I Used to Be So Organized by Glynnis Whitwer

Visit Glynnis' blog for more on how she manages her to-do list.

Scripture is full of wisdom and practical advice on getting tasks done. Pick up a copy of the NIV Real-Life Devotional Bible, interspersed with 366 devotions from the Proverbs 31 Ministries team, for encouragement and that extra 'oomph' you need to stop procrastinating and start doing!

Reflect and Respond:
Consider one project or task you've delayed starting. What are some of the real reasons?

Power Verses:
Proverbs 31:17-18, "She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks. She sees that her trading is profitable, and her lamp does not go out at night." (NIV)

James 4:17, "If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn't do it, it is sin for them." (NIV)

© 2013 by Glynnis Whitwer. All rights reserved.

[Judy Harder]

September 5, 2013

A Different Kind of School Year
Lysa TerKeurst


"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." Ephesians 4:22-24 (NIV)

As we get back into the routine of a new school year, I'm making a commitment: no more unglued mama mornings. I want our mornings to go better this year with less frustration, yelling, and chaos.

This idea developed last spring when we had a string of really hard mornings.

One day, as I pulled up to the school, the atmosphere inside the car was thick with tension. Not wanting the last words spoken to my daughter to be harsh, I tried to change the course of our conversation. "Sweetheart, I love you. I'm sorry we had a rough morning."

"We always have rough mornings," she shot back before slamming the car door.

Nothing quite makes a mom feel more successful than a little dialogue like that.

As I rubbed the stabbing feeling in my chest, I thought, Something has got to change. Each day I promise myself I won't yell at the kids. But each morning something triggers me and I lose it.

Ever been there?

It's not like we wake up in the mood to get frustrated with our people, right? I usually wake up in a good mood. But then the stress of getting everyone ready and out the door on time makes the crazy creep in.

This one can't find her shoes. That one needs a report printed and we have no ink. The bread for sandwiches is still at the grocery store because I forgot to buy it the day before. And to top it all off, I don't have any cash to give the kids so they can buy lunch at school.

The whining. The complaining. The feeling that I can't ever get it together. It all escalates and sends me over the edge.

I want this school year to be different. I want to be like Ephesians 4:22-24 describes: "made new in the attitude of my mind." The Greek word for "made new" is kaino. One of its definitions is uncommon. I want to be an uncommon calm in the midst of chaos and an example of peace for my kids. For that to happen, I came up with a plan:

Tell the world to wait. When I wake up, my mind is like a dry sponge. What I soak up first will saturate me most deeply. If I don't want to be consumed with the stresses of my day, I must put the world on hold to soak up what will renew my mind—God's Word.

Remember I'm managing blessings. If I want my attitude to be made new, I must keep things in perspective. While my frustrations seem big, things like lost shoes and less than perfect lunches aren't big problems. They are small aggravations that come with managing blessings.

Let my kids own their irresponsibilities. My kids' irresponsibilities will not become my emergencies. I need to communicate my expectations so they know they're going to have to own the consequences of their choices. For example, if they wait until the last minute to print their report and the printer doesn't have any ink, they'll have to print it at school or turn it in late. Either way, I can't own this situation and let it throw me into frantic, fix-it mode. I can let the consequences of my kids' choices scream, so I don't have to.

All of this is going to take some intentionality, and I doubt I'll do it perfectly. But I'm excited about trying. I'm excited to "put on my new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness." Which is another way of saying, I'm excited to have less unglued mama mornings and more peace this school year.

Dear Lord, thank You for the grace You give. I don't want to live in the same pattern of coming unglued anymore. Help me put these principles into practice. In Jesus' Name, amen.

Related Resources:
Do you desire more calm this school year? Click here to join us for the No More Unglued Mama Mornings Challenge. We're taking 5 days to make mornings better with our kids!

Lysa TerKeurst's book, Unglued, goes to the heart of the matter and helps equip you with ways to choose calm in the chaos. Click here to order your copy.

Reflect and Respond:
Which of the following action points can you put into practice?
1. Tell the world to wait.
2. Remember you're managing blessings.
3. Let your kids own their irresponsibilities.

Power Verse:
2 Corinthians 5:17, "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!" (NIV)

© 2013 by Lysa TerKeurst. All rights reserved.

[Judy Harder]

September 6, 2013

A New Way to Process Conflict
Amy Carroll


"When she speaks she has something worthwhile to say, and she always says it kindly." Proverbs 31:26 (MSG)

It was like we were speaking two different languages. Even though my friend and I were both talking in English, we couldn't seem to understand each other. I started the conversation with the assumption we would see things the same way, but emotions rose, opinions conflicted, and wounds were inflicted. How did we get to that frustrated place?

After cooling off, I called a wise, truth-telling friend. I told her the basic outline of the conversation, trying to keep it neutral. Finally I asked, "What do you think went wrong?"

She astutely turned the question back to me. "What could you have done differently?"

Initially, I couldn't think of one thing. After all, the conflict wasn't my fault! But then I took some time to reflect, and God began to soften my heart, revealing my part in the conflict.

I had called my friend during an extremely busy time in her life with a suggestion that would have added to her overloaded schedule. Instead of being sensitive, I pushed and pushed my own agenda. As our emotions escalated, my defensiveness increased, making my responses sharp.

The friend I had called for advice gently prodded, "How could you have listened more carefully? Would truly listening have made you more compassionate? How could you have responded with more grace?"

For the rest of the afternoon, God etched a new way of interacting in hard situations on my heart. This is the truth He carved: Listen with compassion. Speak with grace.

Listen with Compassion. Years ago my pastor shared an invaluable method for re-adjusting his attitude when dealing with conflict. He asks, is this behavior consistent with the person's general character?

Wow! If I had applied that question in the conversation with my friend, I would have remembered her kindness, her servant's heart, and her calm nature. Then, I might have wondered what was changing her normal response. Compassion would have flooded my heart toward her and the stress she was under. My heart would have been positioned to serve her, rather than insisting on my own way.

At its core, listening with compassion is simply obeying the biblical commands to die to ourselves (John 12:24-25) and to consider others more highly than ourselves (Philippians 2:3).

Speak with Grace. Proverbs 15:1 says, "A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger" (NIV). There is no downside to a gentle, grace-filled answer. I'm embarrassed to admit that I've often viewed responding this way as losing or giving in. That's simply not true. Needed truths can be told in kind and gentle ways. Just think about how my wise friend treated me when I sought her advice.

Before I called my friend to ask for forgiveness and clear up the misunderstanding, I prayed for a Jesus-sized dose of compassion and grace.

Since then, I've been rehearsing "Listen with Compassion - Speak with Grace" over and over in my mind. Last week I had a chance to put it into practice when I received a difficult email. My first response was defensiveness, but then I started to repeat my new way of processing until I could hear the needs in the email with compassion and respond with grace.

I love how God gave me the chance to practice what He had taught me after I had time to take a breath, pause, rehearse my new motto and then respond. Life and relationships are filled with conflict, so I have no doubt I'll have a chance to practice again. Next time, I'm praying I'll be ready!

Dear Lord, sometimes it seems like conflict pops up out of nowhere. One minute the conversation is going fine and before I know it, hurtful words are being said. Please help me listen and respond as You would. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
Visit Amy Carroll's blog for more insights into dealing with conflict in relationships.

Written by women from every walk of life, our new book, Encouragement for Today: Devotionals for Everyday Living, will inspire you to live authentically and fully grounded in the Word of God. Every devotion is like sitting with a friend over coffee, as we share highs and lows, humorous stories and tender moments. Click here for your copy!

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Reflect and Respond:
Who are you focused on during a hard conversation? Are you trying to understand the person speaking or already working on your defense?

If you feel yourself becoming defensive, make yourself pause and put yourself in the other person's shoes.

Power Verses:
Proverbs 17:27, "A truly wise person uses few words; a person with understanding is even-tempered." (NLT)

Proverbs 18:15, "The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge; for the ears of the wise seek it out." (NIV)

© 2013 by Amy Carroll. All rights reserved.

[Judy Harder]

September 9, 2013

Imprisoned by Shame
Julie Gillies


"But you, LORD, are a shield around me, my glory, the One who lifts my head high." Psalm 3:3 (NIV)

They were only boots. On their own, boots are good. They are functional, sturdy, insulated. But that day they were an embarrassment, the last resort of a 7th-grade girl whose only pair of shoes was soaked. I couldn't walk through the foot-high snow to the bus stop without the boots.

Maneuvering my dad's huge size 11 boots with my size six feet was a clumsy effort. Slide, slide, lift. Slide, slide, lift. My cheeks burned as I climbed the school bus steps, desperately hoping no one would notice. When the bus dropped us off in front of the junior high, I slide-slide-rushed inside and immediately pulled off the boots. In my stocking feet, I raced through the dirty snow accumulating on the hallway floors, eager to stow the humiliating footwear in my locker.

All day long friends and teachers glanced at my wet socks and asked why I was walking around without shoes in the dead of winter. "My shoes are soaked," I told them, which was true. I didn't mention that they were at home, or that I'd worn the humiliating oversized boots that belonged to my dad.

My heart was imprisoned in shame that day at the age of 12. And the shame only multiplied with constant hunger pangs, my parent's ongoing violent fights, and being left in charge of my four siblings more often than was wise.

As I stepped into young adulthood, shame followed closely. I tried to push it away with other things and tragically sought love and attention from men, believing their affections could somehow make up the deficit of dignity I felt.

On my own at 17, I was determined to earn my way, determined never to borrow from my neighbors, and determined to have a full pantry. I worked hard and bought lots of nice shoes to line my closet and heart. And I obsessively filled my cupboards with every food I had been denied much of my life.

No matter what I did, shame clung to my heart and tainted my perception. I believed others saw me as less-than because deep down, that's how I felt about myself. I struggled to overcome the embarrassment from my childhood, but it refused to let me go. Though I was no longer in my shameful past, my shameful past was still in me.

And then I met Jesus, and He gently began working in my heart. Slowly, through praying for myself, He began a transforming work in me.

It wasn't an easy or instant process. When I was afraid to believe He could make me whole, He said, "Anyone who believes in [me] will never be put to shame" (Romans 10:11 NIV). When the wardrobe of my heart felt stained and embarrassed, He said, "[You are] clothed with dignity" (Proverbs 31:25 NIV). When I felt condemned by my past sinful choices, He said, "Then neither do I condemn you ... Go now and leave your life of sin" (John 8:11 NIV).

As my relationship with Jesus grew, it struck me that He treated me with the dignity and honor my soul longed for. As I continued to pray for myself, His exquisite love covered my shameful past and made me feel beautiful. Cherished. Unashamed. Free.

The mortified young girl who wore her dad's boots to school now walks unfettered with the One her soul loves. As I continue to pray for myself, He continues His transforming work. And now, instead of defining myself by shame and embarrassment, I cling to the truth that Jesus treasures, esteems, and beautifully clothes me.

Dear Lord, You know the shame and embarrassment of my past, both from what happened to me and through my own choices. Please bring the healing and transformation that only You can. Thank You that in Christ I am cherished, unashamed and free. In the Name of Jesus, amen.

Related Resources:
Do You Know Jesus?

You are invited to begin the holy habit of praying for yourself! Join Julie Gillies' online study of her book, Prayers for a Woman's Soul, starting September 9th. It's an opportunity to pray for and about topics relevant to you! For details and free resources, visit Julie's blog.

Connect with Julie Gillies on her Facebook page, Prayers for a Woman's Soul.

Reflect and Respond:
Is your heart imprisoned by shame, guilt, or fear? Pray, forgive your offender, and ask God to bring healing and freedom to you both.

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

© 2013 by Julie Gillies. All rights reserved.

[Judy Harder]

September 10, 2013

Condemning Thoughts
Melissa Taylor


"He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies." John 8:44b (NIV)

Do you ever question if you are good enough? Are you more likely to dwell on what's wrong with you than what's right?

One day I realized I was scrutinizing myself to find out what my problem was. The more I picked myself apart, the more it dawned on me another voice was egging me on: the voice of the enemy, Satan. As I listened to his lies, they zapped my sense of worth and security.

For a long time, I didn't recognize the enemy for who he was. The negative thoughts and deceitful suggestions simply sounded like my own voice.

The Bible opens with a serpent slithering into the lives of Adam and Eve. This snake is also known as Satan, and he filled their heads with lies they believed. Lies which separated them from God. From the start, Satan's goal has been to trick and deceive. John 8:44b tells us "He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies." This liar also tempted Jesus. He was always ready though, with the Word of God, to defeat the evil one.

We too can have this weapon in our arsenal. As we fill our hearts and minds with Truth, we can defeat the lies we tell ourselves, and the lies Satan whispers in our thoughts.

When I compare my negative thoughts to God's Word, the differences amaze me:

My thoughts: I want to give up.
God's Word: Be committed (Philippians 4:13, Galatians 6:9).

My thoughts: I'll feel lost.
God's Word: He watches my paths and establishes my ways (Proverbs 5:21, 4:26).

My thoughts: No one loves me.
God's Word: He loves me more than life (John 3:16).

My thoughts: I'm ugly.
God's Word: I'm wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14).

My thoughts: I'm all alone and no one understands me.
God's Word: He will never leave me. He has plans for my life (Deuteronomy 31:6, Jeremiah 29:11).

My thoughts: I'm just not good enough.
God's Word: I was created in His image (Genesis 1:26).

When the enemy tries to slither in with false accusations, we must be ready to combat him with what God's Word says about us. To get started, evaluate your thoughts and pray for wisdom to distinguish the voice of the enemy.

Condemning thoughts that steal your confidence of who you are in Christ aren't from God. Let's commit today to renew our minds with the Word of God each day, and replace those worn-out, deceitful lies with truth.

Dear Lord, thank You for Your life-giving truth. Please fill me with Your Word so that I can live in freedom and confidence! In Jesus' Name, amen.

Related Resources:
We invite you to join thousands of women participating in our newest Online Bible Study of A Confident Heart by Renee Swope! Click here to be part of this powerful study and community.

Dive into God's Word and be inspired and encouraged with the A Confident Heart Real Life Connection Call Series.

What others are saying about A Confident Heart:

• This book pierced my heart, as no other reading, hearing, or experience has.

• This is so what I need! I love how you remind us to pray God's Word. His truth is only what makes a difference with toxic thoughts.

• I felt like you were writing about me. I find myself not doing things that would bring joy because of not being good enough. This book describes how I have felt all my life.

Reflect and Respond:
Are your thoughts reflective of who God's Word says you are?

If not, what one or two things will you begin to change based on the verses above?

Power Verses:
Philippians 4:8, "Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things." (NIV)

Romans 8:1, "Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus." (NIV)

© 2013 by Melissa Taylor. All rights reserved.