Encouragement for Today

[Judy Harder]

October 21, 2009

Whatever It Takes

Marybeth Whalen

"For you, O God, tested us; you refined us like silver. You brought us into prison and laid burdens on our backs. You let men ride over our heads; we went through fire and water, but you brought us to a place of abundance."

Psalm 66:10-12 (NIV)

Devotion:

This school year, my husband and I made some big changes in our house. We took the kids' computer out of the bonus room and gave them use of our two laptop computers in our presence only. We took the extra TV out of the bonus room. We got rid of all the extra channels on our satellite service, leaving the basic few. And we began requiring that our two children who have cell phones turn them in for the night at 8pm.

Why did we implement these seemingly harsh decisions? Because last school year our children made some bad choices... and their grades reflected it. They chose to watch TV in the bonus room instead of going to bed at a decent hour. They chose to play on the computer when they were supposed to be working on assignments. They chose to text their friends instead of focus on their schoolwork.

After repeated lectures and warnings, they still made the same mistakes. This pattern of behavior left us no choice but to come in and remove the things that were a stumbling block. The kids didn't like our decision and to them it seemed unfair. But we stood firm. We knew that we were doing the right thing for our children. We could see a future they could not, and we had to protect that future for them--even if they didn't understand our method for doing so. As their parents, we have to do whatever it takes.

Sometimes God has to do the same for us. At the time His plan may seem harsh and unnecessary. We may not realize that He can see a future we cannot. We are His children, and He will remove all stumbling blocks that keep us from being all that we can be. Even if it hurts. Even when we cry and beg Him not to. Even when we pout and tell Him it's not fair.

It's because I love you, He tells us, that I do this. I am creating something beautiful in you if you will just stop fighting me. I have a place I am trying to get you to. You can't see it, my precious child, but I can.

Is there something God is doing in your life that feels unjust? That has you pouting or crying or wondering why? Maybe you identify with the verses from today. You feel imprisoned, burdened, trampled, burned. Do you trust Him to bring you out of the place where you are to a place of abundance? The most beautiful prayer we can pray is: I trust You, I trust You, I trust You. He is a loving Father who only wants the best for us and He will do whatever it takes to get us there. Instead of fighting Him, let's rest in that Truth.
     
Dear Lord, I trust You. I trust You. I trust You. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

Everyday Life encouragement is just a click away!

Becoming A Woman of Influence, CD message by Marybeth Whalen

For the Write Reason General Editor Marybeth Whalen

When Life and Beliefs Collide: How Knowing God Makes a Difference by Carolyn Custis James
Visit Marybeth's blog - Cheaper by the Half Dozen

Application Steps: 

Is there a time that God did whatever it took and you later realized it was good for you? Spend time journaling about that today.

Reflections: 

How is God doing whatever it takes in your life right now? Are you recognizing it or rebelling against it?

Power Verses:

Psalm 143:7-8, "Answer me quickly, O Lord; my spirit fails. Do not hide your face from me or I will be like those who go down to the pit. Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul." (NIV) 

Psalm 18:19, "He brought me out into a spacious place; he rescued me because he delighted in me." (NIV)

© 2009 by Marybeth Whalen. All rights reserved.

Proverbs 31 Ministries

616-G Matthews-Mint Hill Road

Matthews, NC 28105

www.proverbs31.org

[Judy Harder]

October 22, 2009

The Most Important Time of My Day

Lysa TerKeurst

"'... Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.'" Matthew 4:4 (NIV)
       
Devotion:

Is it really that important to have a quiet time with the Lord everyday? I mean the Lord knows how busy my life is, so if I just toss up a few prayers and listen to a Christian song on the radio while rushing into my day, that should suffice. Right?

It's easy to let the busyness of life crowd out time for prayer, Bible reading, and sitting with the Lord.  There are a million things on all of our to-do lists, time is tight, and quiet moments seem few and far between.  But I've learned that if I make the choice to be with the Lord first thing in the morning, my outlook on life that day and my ability to handle things seems to go so much smoother.

Also, I've had to change my mindset on having a quiet time. Spending time with the Lord in the morning doesn't end when I say "amen" and put my Bible back on the shelf.  I've just invited the King of kings to participate in my day.  So, I get up from spending time with the Lord in the morning and start eagerly looking for His hand of activity in my life. 

I think about the Bible verses I read that morning and look for ways to apply them to my life that very day.  I watch the circumstances that come my way hour by hour and ask the Lord to constantly give me wisdom to process life in the way that would be most honoring to Him.  My mindset is healthier, my attitude more positive, and my ability to extend grace to those who rub me the wrong way is increased just by setting aside some time to be with the Lord.

If you are struggling with having quiet time with the Lord each day, try these helpful ideas:

Be honest with God and admit your struggle.  Ask God to give you the desire to set aside time to be with Him.

Start with just a small amount of time.  Even if it is just 5 minutes at first, give this 5 minutes solely to the Lord without any other distractions.  Over the next weeks and months, your desire for more time with Him will increase.

Use a version of the Bible that lends itself to study.  I use the NIV Life Application Study Bible and I love it.  It helps me understand the context each book was written in and gives me commentaries to understand specific verses.

Ask God for understanding as you read the Bible.  When I first started reading the Bible I had a hard time.  So, I started praying that God would open my spiritual eyes to see the truths in a life changing way for me. 

Write some of the verses that seem most applicable to your life on 3x5 cards and use them in your prayers.  For example, Matthew 6:19-20 says, "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth... but store up for yourselves treasures in heaven."  So, I could use this verse in my prayer time by praying, "God, help me to know how to store up treasures in Heaven.  Help me to relinquish my tight hold on my earthly possessions so I can use them to build Your kingdom now.  Show me how to best use that which You have blessed me with.  Give me Your mindset for the money I have."

Get involved in a Bible Study with friends.  This will help hold you accountable to getting your study time done and will open up great discussions to deepen everyone's understanding of applying God's truths to everyday life.

I've found a daily quiet time with the Lord is very important and very doable as well.

Dear Lord, I want a more vibrant relationship with You and I know having a daily quiet time is an important part of that.  Help me make this my most important priority each day, no matter how busy life is. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

Lysa wrote her new book, Becoming More Than a Good Bible Study Girl, specifically to help women learn to more effectively understand the Bible and apply truth to their life.  If you are tired of going through the Christian motions, this is the book you've been looking for.  Click here to order.

Visit Lysa's blog today for some more suggestions on having great quiet times with God

What Happens When Women Say Yes to God by Lysa TerKeurst

Application Steps: 

If you don't know which book of the Bible to start with, I'd suggest either Matthew or Philippians.  These are two of my favorite books that are rich with life application opportunities.  You may also want to read a chapter from the book of Proverbs.  There are 31 chapters, one for each day of the month.

Reflections:   

The fall months seem to be a time where schedules pick up, time gets tight, and some things have to fall by the wayside.  But, we have to be careful to never take a break from having time with the Lord.  How can we safeguard this time and make it a priority each day?

Power Verses:

Matthew 6:11, "Give us today our daily bread." (NIV) 

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

© 2009 by Lysa TerKeurst. All rights reserved.

Proverbs 31 Ministries

616-G Matthews-Mint Hill Road

Matthews, NC 28105

www.proverbs31.org

[Judy Harder]

October 23, 2009

A Praying Momma

T. Suzanne Eller

"Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see."

Hebrews 11:1 (NIV)

Devotion:

Mickey's son was raised in church. He once served as a leader in his youth group. When he first started drinking, she and her husband weren't sure what to do. Then he was arrested. Then they discovered that he was using drugs. For the first time in her life, Mickey felt helpless as a mom.

Their home was a safe place where faith was lived out. And yet her son continued to spiral downward, no matter what they did. The night he broke into their small business and emptied the cash register was the bleakest night of all.

Mickey looked around the church and realized there were other moms with similar struggles. She started a Prodigal Prayer Group that met on Tuesday nights. They prayed one year, two years, and then three. Mickey saw others' children come back to their faith, but her prayers for her own son seemed to be going nowhere. Nonetheless, she continued to show up, joining in strength and support with other praying mommas.

I wish my sweet friend had a video camera recording her son through those dark days. I wish she could have seen Austin rediscover his faith, overcome his addictions, and see Austin grow into the godly man he is today.

But the reality is that Mickey didn't have a video camera. All she had was her faith. And that faith was tested over and over. She was aware of the realities of her son's choices, but she continued to pray. She continued to believe. She had to make hard choices like setting boundaries. She had to listen to other moms whose children were not straying and who did not understand her struggle.

Mickey says that during that time she began to see her son through the eyes of faith. She knew that it wasn't in her power to change her son, but that God could be her source of strength as she stayed the course.

We often say we would do anything for our children. If someone had told Mickey that it would take years of praying and believing like she did without seeing any sign of change, I wondered would she still do it? Mickey says yes, she would. 

Maybe you identify with my friend. You raised your son or daughter with love. You provided a safe place. You showed them Jesus, and yet somehow they lost their way. Today I want to encourage you. The Father loves you and your child. In Jesus' story of the prodigal son (Luke 15:11-32, NIV) we see a son who has hit rock bottom. He finally decides to go home and this is the reaction of his father:

So he returned home to his father. And while he was still a long distance away, his father saw him coming. Filled with love and compassion, he ran to his son, embraced him, and kissed him. His son said to him, 'Father, I have sinned against both heaven and you, and I am no longer worthy of being called your son.' But his father said to the servants, 'Quick! Bring the finest robe in the house and put it on him. Get a ring for his finger, and sandals for his feet. And kill the calf we have been fattening in the pen. We must celebrate with a feast, for this son of mine was dead and has now returned to life. He was lost, but now he is found. (verses 20-24)

Jesus told this story to illustrate the love of the Heavenly Father. The beauty of a praying momma is not lost in the chaos of your child's choices. You are not alone as you pray, because He's waiting, just as you are, to welcome your child in His embrace.
                                                                                                                                                                   
Dear Father, thank You that You love my child even more than I. I am not alone. You are with me. Walk with me today. Give me Your strength. Give me renewed hope and eyes of faith. In Your powerful, precious name, Amen.

Related Resources:

Do You Know Him?

Real Issues, Real Teens: What Every Parent Needs to Know by T. Suzanne Eller. For more resources from Suzie, click here.

Divine Prayers for Despairing Parents: Words to Pray When You Don't Know What to Say by Susanne Scheppmann

Visit Suzie's blog where Mickey talks about her journey, and how praying with others helped.

Application Steps: 

Invite others who may be interested in joining you in prayer for prodigals.  Choose a time to meet.

Begin by reading the story of the prodigal son.

Reflections: 

How does the Father feel about your child?

"Prayer does not change God, but it changes him who prays." Soren Kierkegaard

Power Verses:

1 Thessalonians 5:11, "So speak encouraging words to one another. Build up hope so you'll all be together in this, no one left out, no one left behind. I know you're already doing this; just keep on doing it." (MSG)

© 2009 by T. Suzanne Eller. All rights reserved.

Proverbs 31 Ministries

616-G Matthews-Mint Hill Road

Matthews, NC 28105

www.proverbs31.org

[Judy Harder]

October 26, 2009

Forgotten No More

Rachel Olsen

"We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure..." Hebrews 6:19 (NIV)

Devotion:

My mind was suddenly four thousand miles from the quaint outdoor café I sat in.  I laid the book on the table and visualized the garbage-strewn streets of Quito, where the poorest of the poor struggle to survive.  The title of the devotional entry in Daily Prayers from the NIV was "Ecuador's Forgotten Ones" and it painted this picture of a place I'd been two years earlier: 

You see them on the well-worn, two-foot wide median that divides the city's busiest street. Vehicles zip past at alarming speeds while preschoolers play tag, oblivious to the danger. But when the traffic halts, these little ones press their dirty faces against closed car windows, begging for pennies. At night older children join them and spit gasoline into the air, lit by matches into flaming, dragon-like plumes, hoping for a coin from a passing motorist. These are Ecuador's forgotten ones: slum-dwelling children with no hope for a future.

Tears filled my eyes. I couldn't shake the thought of the damage that gasoline was doing to their young bodies and minds. Yet I knew their feeling of hopelessness was even more damaging. These kids must feel as if they have no help, no anchor, and no future. I silently pleaded with God to send help and hope to these fire-breathing forgotten ones. For I know God has not forgotten them. He sees them.

My mind drifted to the reason this entry caught my eye: Mauricio. My husband and I sponsor him through Compassion International. A few years ago, I traveled with the Compassion organization to Ecuador to see the children impacted by poverty, and meet Mauricio. Another team from P31 Ministries leaves for Ecuador today with Compassion International.

Ecuador's economic structure suffers. Several years ago their government abruptly switched the money system to the US dollar. Overnight everyone's bank accounts were frozen. Many people were unable to access their money for months ... others never got their money at all as many banks folded. Even those too poor to have bank accounts suffered due to inflation near 300%.

Multiple government leaders have taken office, made drastic or selfish changes, and then defected the country - leaving the Ecuadorian people forgotten. But God has not forgotten them, and He doesn't want us to forget them either. Someone has to pray for them, someone has to help them, and someone has to hand them the anchor of hope. Someone has to declare to them the words of the author of Hebrews: "We are confident that you are meant for better things, things that come with salvation" (6:9, NLT).

Just as God has not forgotten the Ecuadorian people, He has not forgotten you. Are you in need of an eternal anchor today? Are you suffering financial hardship? Is your soul adrift in the traffic of life? If so, click here to meet your Hope.

Are you able to be God's hands of hope to Ecuador's forgotten ones? If your heart is quickened to help a child from Ecuador or elsewhere, don't ignore that impulse and forget it.  Do something about it today. Hebrews 6:10 assures us, "God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them" (NIV).

You can demonstrate to one child that he is forgotten no more.

Dear Lord, my heart aches for Your people facing poverty, injustice, and infirmity in this world. Help them, Lord. Be their anchor and hope. And help me as Your servant to know how to help them. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

Sponsor a child through Compassion International

Too Small to Ignore: Why the Least of These Matters Most by Wes Stafford
Visit Rachel's blog - My Life in Chapter and Verse
P31 Ministries' Compassion blog - For the Least of These

Application Steps: 

Pray for the children of Ecuador today. Pray for their salvation, their health, their economy, and their leaders.

Pray for God to send workers to support and help children in poverty - and pray for the P31 Ministries' team leaving today to love on the underprivileged children in Ecuador.

Consider how you can get involved.

Reflections:

Imagine what daily life feels like for one of these children.

Read Matthew 25:34-40 below and reflect.

Power Verses:

Matthew 25:34-40, "Then the King will say to those on the right, 'Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the Kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. For I was hungry, and you fed me. I was thirsty, and you gave me a drink. I was a stranger, and you invited me into your home. I was naked, and you gave me clothing. I was sick, and you cared for me. I was in prison, and you visited me.' Then these righteous ones will reply, 'Lord, when did we ever see you hungry and feed you? Or thirsty and give you something to drink? Or a stranger and show you hospitality? Or naked and give you clothing? When did we ever see you sick or in prison, and visit you?' And the King will say, 'I assure you, when you did it to one of the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were doing it to me!'" (NLT)

© 2009 by Rachel Olsen. All rights reserved.

Proverbs 31 Ministries

616-G Matthews-Mint Hill Road

Matthews, NC 28105

www.Proverbs31.org

[Judy Harder]

October 27, 2009

Abba Father

Ariel Allison, She Reads Featured Author

"For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship. And by Him we cry Abba, Father. The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children."

Romans 8:15-16 (NIV)
     
Devotion:

We welcome Ariel Allison as our guest writer today. Ariel is the author of eye of the god, one of P31's She Reads fall selections. Ariel is the mom of four boys under the age of 7 and wrote a suspenseful novel in her "spare" time.

The cross that marks my father's grave is nothing but a broken tree branch lashed together with twine. Knee high weeds grow above the sunken ground where the rustic casket lies. The last time I visited his grave was late at night as I stared at the makeshift cross with the help of flickering headlights. The sharp chill of a Tennessee autumn surrounded me and once again I felt the longing.

What I longed for, as I stood on that frigid hilltop, was not the physical presence of my father. It was what I had never really gotten from him--the feeling or assurance of his love.

A year earlier I sat beside a dying man and choked on my sorrow as I asked, "Daddy, do you love me?" I got my answer hours before he slipped into eternity.

He looked at me with startling blue eyes. My resolve to hold it together began to crumble. I feared his answer. What if he said no? How would I live with that knowledge? But even worse was the thought of standing over a grave and never knowing his answer.

His blue eyes clouded with tears. "I'm sorry," he said, his tongue swollen and dry. "I'm sorry I haven't said it. I do love you."

For the first time in my life, my father and I wept tears of joy together. It was a holy moment, a gift from the God who loves me more than my earthly father ever could. Before he passed on, I got but a taste of what our relationship should have been. It was a drop of water on the tongue of a thirsty woman.

Jesus taught us to refer to God as "Abba" or "Daddy." Jesus knew it would be difficult for some of us to approach God as our Father.  However, only God can fill the empty places in our hearts that long for a father's love. He offers a living water, a living love, that quenches our thirst. We simply need to admit that we are empty and thirsting for our Father - our heavenly Father.

I've longed to be the delight of my father.  Not for a moment on his deathbed, but for the entirety of my life. This longing has caused my heart to hunger deeply for my heavenly Father. My Abba. He says that I am His child,  and assures me that He loves me. In those words my heart finds the father I've been looking for my entire life.

The rustic cross above my dad's grave represents the truth that I have a Father who loves me. I have a Father who will never leave me nor forsake me.

And so do you.
                                                                                                                                                                         
Father God, help me to know You as my Father, the One who will never leave me nor forsake me. Heal my broken places and teach me what it means to be loved. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

Do You Know Him?

eye of the god - Christian suspense novel by Ariel Allison

The Wonder of His Love: A Journey into the Heart of God by Nancy Stafford

Talk with Ariel and join the She Reads blog discussion where this week we'll be talking about the father-daughter relationship and it's affect on lives and literature.
                                                                                                                                                                                   
Application Steps: 

It is hard to know the love of Father God if you've never known the love of your earthly father. If you feel distant from your heavenly Father, ask Him to come closer, and invite His Spirit to dwell within you.

If your earthly father has been a source of pain in your life, pray that God will give you the courage to forgive.

Reflections: 

Do you need to allow yourself the freedom to grieve the loss of a father's love, and seek the love of your Father God? Be honest with yourself, and God about this.

Power Verses:

2 Corinthians 6:18, "I will be a Father to you, and you will be my sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty." (NIV)

Psalm 10:14, "But you, O God, do see trouble and grief; you consider it to take it in hand. The victim commits himself to you; you are the helper of the fatherless." (NIV)

Psalm 68:5, "A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in his holy dwelling." (NIV)

© 2009 by Ariel Allison. All rights reserved.

Proverbs 31 Ministries

616-G Matthews-Mint Hill Road

Matthews, NC 28105

www.proverbs31.org

[Judy Harder]

October 28, 2009

The Lord Is Their Refuge

Marybeth Whalen

"You evildoers frustrate the plans of the poor, but the Lord is their refuge."

Psalm 14:6 (NIV)
   
Devotion:

When I read today's key verse, I thought about the people who contributed to the financial mess within our country this past year. These people lined their own pockets without concern for the ramifications of their choices. They knowingly deceived those who trusted them. They covered themselves, while leaving others exposed in the process. They were like the evildoers who frustrated the plans of the poor. Sadly, lot of us were left feeling poor - financially and spiritually - as our plans were frustrated.

Thankfully, this is not where the verse ends. Yes, bad things happen. Yes, we have all seen our private finances affected by this public crisis. But this verse reminds us that the Lord is our refuge. I started thinking about what the word refuge means, and found this definition in Webster's 1828 Dictionary: "That which shelters or protects from danger, distress or calamity; a stronghold which protects by its strength, or a sanctuary which secures safety by its sacredness; any place inaccessible to an enemy."

Then I cross-referenced the word "refuge" in the Bible. I found many other scriptures that remind us that God is our refuge. Second Samuel 22:2-4 and Psalm 18:2-3 are the same verses repeated by King David while facing troubled times:

"The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation. He is my stronghold, my refuge and my savior - from violent men you save me. I call to the Lord, who is worthy of my praise, and I am saved from my enemies."

I love how both the definition and the verse talk about a refuge being a place where your enemies can't get to you! Do you need that reminder today? I know sometimes I need to remember that He offers me that safe place I can run to ... a place where my enemies can't touch me!

We can claim the promise that is found in Psalm 17:14: "O Lord, by your hand save me from such men, from men of this world, whose reward is in this life. You still the hunger of those you cherish; their sons have plenty, and they store up wealth for their children." 

People who make money their god receive their reward in this life. But they will spend eternity in longing. That doesn't sound like a good trade to me!

God promises those who place their trust in Him He will keep from going hungry. He will make sure our children have plenty, and He will give us wealth to store up for our children. That doesn't mean wealth like our world defines it. Jesus said that He doesn't give as the world gives. In God's economy, wealth exists in hope, love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness and self control. Unlike money, these are the things that last, and bring about eternal blessings.

Do you need to take refuge in God instead of letting bad news rule your heart and mind? Do you need to spend time today searching His Word for promises and assurances that will comfort your hurting heart and settle your anxious mind? Maybe you need to journal your feelings, pouring out your heart to God and seeking His answers. Maybe you need to pray without ceasing, allowing His presence to give you rest from worry. Whatever troubles you, seek refuge in God.

He is right there waiting for you to find shelter and safety in Him.

Dear Lord, I need You to be my refuge. Thank You that Your Word promises You will be a refuge for me in times of trouble. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

Listen to Lysa TerKeurst share on our radio show about the peace of Jesus.

Learning to Live Financially Free by Marybeth and Curt Whalen (for more resources by Marybeth, click here)

When Life and Beliefs Collide: How Knowing God Makes a Difference by Carolyn Custis James
Visit Marybeth's blog - Cheaper by the Half Dozen

Application Steps: 

Spend time journaling today what the word "refuge" means to you. Pour out your heart to God and tell Him you need Him to be your refuge. Write down some verses that bring you assurance and meditate on those verses when you feel anxious.

Reflections: 

If you are going through a crisis, financial or otherwise, have you sought God as your refuge?

What false shelters do you find yourself seeking refuge in?

Power Verses:

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

Isaiah 25:4a, "You have been a refuge for the poor, a refuge for the needy in his distress, a shelter from the storm and a shade from the heat." (NIV)

© 2009 by Marybeth Whalen. All rights reserved.

Proverbs 31 Ministries

616-G Matthews-Mint Hill Road

Matthews, NC 28105

www.Proverbs31.org

[Judy Harder]

October 29, 2009

If Only I Had ...

Lysa TerKeurst

"Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."

John 8:32 (NIV)

Devotion:

There's a simple little script many of us play in our mind--simple, yet incredibly dangerous.  Dare I say it's one of the biggest things that hold us back from feeling fulfilled in our relationship with God. It's a script tangled in a lie that typically goes something like this: I could really be happy and fulfilled if only I had ...

... a skinnier body.

... a husband.

... a husband who was more tender and romantic.

... more money.

... a more successful career.

... a better personality.

... a baby.

... smarter kids.

I don't know what your "if only I had" statements are, but I do know that none of them will bring fulfillment.  They might bring temporary moments of happiness... but not true fulfillment.

In the book I just wrote, "Becoming More Than a Good Bible Study Girl," I expose the "if only I had" lie with this truth:  Apart from a thriving relationship with God, even if we got everything on our list, there would still be a hollow gap in our soul.

Instead of saying, "If only I had" and filling in the blank with some person, possession, or position, make a choice to replace that statement with God's truth. Here are some examples that have helped me battle the temptation to let people, possessions, or positions take God's place in my life.

People

I no longer say, "If only I had a daddy who loved me...." Instead, I say, "Psalm 68:5 promises God will be a father to the fatherless."
`
Maybe your gap isn't left by an absent father but by a friend who hurt you. Or perhaps a husband who left you. Or the children you've longed to have and still don't. Whatever that gap is, God is the perfect fit for your emptiness. Pray this paraphrase of Luke 1:78-79: "Because of the tender mercy of my God by which the rising sun will come to me from heaven--to shine on my darkness and in what feels like the shadow of death to me--I will find peace."

Possessions

I no longer say, "If only I had more possessions ...." Instead, I recite Matthew 6:19-21: "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."

Any possession I ever long for, no matter how good it may seem, will only be good for a limited time. In light of eternity, every possession is in the process of breaking down, becoming devalued, and will eventually be taken from us. If I set my heart solely on acquiring more things, I'll feel more vulnerable with the possibility of loss.

Possessions are meant to be appreciated and used to bless others. They were never meant to be identity markers. It's not wrong to enjoy the possessions we have as long as we don't depend on them for our heart's security.

Position

I no longer say, "If only I had a better position ...." Instead, I say the words of Psalm 119:105: "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path." I don't need a better position to get where I should go. I don't have to figure out my path and jockey to get ahead. I need God's Word to guide me. As I follow Him and honor Him step-by-step, I can be assured that I'm right where He wants me to be doing what He wants me to do.

Whatever "if only I had" statement you are struggling with, you can replace it with solid truths from Scripture that will never leave you empty. It's a bold assertion to make but it's true. When God's Word gets inside of us, it becomes the new way we process life. It rearranges our thoughts, our motives, our needs, and our desires. Our soul was tailor-made to be filled with God and His truth, therefore, it seeps into every part of us and fills us completely.

Dear Lord, I acknowledge only You can fill those empty places in my heart.  Help me to stop the "if only I had" cycle and instead be set free with Your truth. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

Visit Lysa TerKeurst's blog to read a chapter from her new book, "Becoming More Than a Good Bible Study Girl."

Click here to order Becoming More Than a Good Bible Study Girl by Lysa TerKeurst

What Happens When Women Say Yes to God by Lysa TerKeurst

Application Steps: 

What "if only I had" statements do you struggle with?

What are some verses you could use to replace your "if only I had" lies?

Reflections: 

Why do we struggle with trying to get our needs met by people, possessions and positions? 

What are some dangerous outcomes of this pattern?

Power Verses:

Luke 1:78-79: "Because of the tender mercy of our God, by which the rising sun will come to us from heaven to shine on those living in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the path of peace."  (NIV)

Psalm 119: 30-32, "I have chosen the way of truth; I have set my heart on your laws. I hold fast to your statutes, O Lord; do not let me be put to shame. I run in the path of your commands, for you have set my heart free." (NIV) 

© 2009 by Lysa TerKeurst. All rights reserved.

Proverbs 31 Ministries

616-G, Matthews-Mint Hill Road

Matthews, NC 28105

www.proverbs31.org

[Judy Harder]

October 30, 2009

Calling the Great Physician

Tracie Miles

"On hearing this, Jesus said to them, 'It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.'"

Mark 2:17 (NIV)

Devotion:

Recently I came down with an infection.  After ten days of misery, I finally went to see a doctor and was diagnosed with bronchitis.   Feeling much better after a few days of antibiotics, I wished I had sought out a physician's help sooner, preventing all those days of unnecessary suffering!

As I considered my stubbornness in deciding to call on a doctor, I thought about how our walk with Christ is often just like that. 

For example, we have problems in our lives, but we think we are qualified to handle them ourselves. We have burdens, but we assume we can carry the weight on our own. We have questions, but don't really trust God to supply the answers.  We need help, but stubbornly refuse to ask.

Some people call God the "The Great Physician." Although we think of this in terms of physical healing, Jesus walked the earth to provide something more: spiritual healing.

In Mark 2:13-17, the Pharisees asked Jesus why He was eating with sinners and tax collectors.  Jesus explained that He came so we would know Him, and be healed from the inside out.  You see, if the world were a righteous place, there would have been no need for a Savior.  But God knew just how much we needed a Great Physician. Out of compassion for us, He sent His Son to fill that role. In order to tap into His healing power, we simply have to seek Him. And the sooner, the better.

In another recent situation, I quickly and desperately sought God's intervention. A few days later, I happened to notice I felt a peace I could not explain. In fact, I was confused as to why I was so calm. I thought to myself, "Why am I not obsessing about that problem every second? Why am I not more distraught and worried?"

Then God quickened my heart and reminded me that I had turned that problem over to Him. He had taken the weight off of my shoulders. He had given me spiritual healing in the form of peace.

I had sought a cure from the Great Physician, and He had provided it.  Not a cure for the problem, but a cure for my heart as I dealt with the problem under His care.

If you need a physician who knows your suffering, understands how you are feeling, and has the cure, make an appointment to spend time with God today. 

Dear Lord, forgive me for sometimes coming to You for help only after I have exhausted all efforts to handle the problem on my own.  Please fill me with a peace that surpasses all understanding in the situations I am facing. Grant me spiritual healing, and help me see You working in and through me. Thank You for always being available and on call.  In Jesus' Name, Amen.
                                                                               
Related Resources:

Do You Know Him?

Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers

Confessions of a Good Christian Girl: The Secrets Women Keep and the Grace that Saves Them by Tammy Maltby
Visit Tracie's blog - Seeking Peace in God's Will

Application Steps: 

Put God on your virtual speed dial - make a commitment to call Him every morning.

Reflections: 

Is my heart and spirit in need of some spiritual healing?

What specific sins in my life desperately require God's intervention? Have I asked Him recently to intervene? 

Power Verses:

2 Corinthians 12:9, "But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me." (NIV)

Philippians 4:7, "Then you will experience God's peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus." (NLT)

Jeremiah 17:14, "Heal me, O LORD, and I will be healed; save me and I will be saved, for you are the one I praise." (NIV)

© 2009 by Tracie Miles. All rights reserved.

Proverbs 31 Ministries

616-G Matthews-Mint Hill Road

Matthews, NC 28105

www.Proverbs31.org

[Judy Harder]

November 2, 2009

Read Through the Word

Wendy Pope

"For I can do everything through Christ who gives me strength."

Philippians 4:13 (NLT)
     
Devotion:

Have you ever set a goal for yourself you truly wanted to accomplish, but in your mind doubted you would succeed?

There was a time in my life when it seemed like every time I set a goal I would fail.  These failures made me feel less of a person and unworthy. It happened to me so many times I subconsciously refused to set goals. 

Then one day, a few years ago, I heard a challenge that our local Christian radio station gave to its listeners.  The challenge was to read through the entire Bible in a year. This was something I had longed to do for years but was completely afraid I would fail at. 

Short term goals were hard enough for me but less daunting than a long term goal such as this. Yet I felt the Lord's encouragement like never before and knew this was something He wanted me to do. 

Racing through my mind were fears of failure which argued with the truth that God wanted me to know His Word and use it as a light for my path.  I feared I would not understand His Word.  I feared I would not have the discipline to complete the goal of studying God's Word for an entire year.  I feared I would disappoint my Father.

But I remembered God had given me an ear to hear and learn His instruction.  He reminded me that as part of my salvation, I received love and self-discipline, not fear.  I had almost convinced myself that it was impossible when I heard the words of Jesus, "With man this is impossible but with God all things are possible."  I began to feel confidence building in me.  I recounted His truths over and over, combating the lies of the enemy who was sure to do all he could to cause me to fail.

I accepted the challenge. My husband showed his support by giving me a Bible with a daily reading guide. I knew my bookshelves were full of Bibles in different translations.  Why would I need another Bible to accomplish this goal?  I quickly found out.  This was unlike any Bible I had ever seen.  It was a Chronological Bible in the New Living Translation, whose format fascinated me.  It's organized in the order events happened and written in an easy to understand translation.  Plus, the daily readings aren't overwhelming.  I could not wait for the New Year to start so I could begin the challenge.

With fear and trembling, as well as great anticipation, I began reading through the Bible January 1, 2006.  I missed days and many times gave ear to the attempts of the enemy to make me lose sight of my goal.  However, I made up the missed days and met my goal of reading the entire Bible in 2006.  I did it again in 2007, and am in the process of reading through once more in 2009.

I don't share this with you to receive an "atta girl."  All praise and glory go to God.  I share this with you today to encourage you to read through the story of God's Word.  Maybe like me, God has prompted you but you have left Him at bay.  January 1st is not far away and the Chronological Bible I will read in 2010 is available through our resource center.  Last year over 1400 people accepted the challenge to read through the Bible with me. Will you take this year's challenge to know the Savior's story like never before and join me in reading through the Word in 2010?
                                                                                                                                                                   
Dear Lord, thank You for Your perfect gift of salvation, love and self-discipline.  Your Word tells me that all things are possible with You; will You help me believe it?  With the help of Your Holy Spirit's guidance Your Word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

Do You Know the Author of the Word?

The One Year Chronological Bible
God the Builder CD by Wendy Pope. Find more resources by Wendy here.

Wendy is leading a year long Bible study in 2010 on her blog Experiencing the Real Meaning of Free   To learn more and read comments from those who participated in 2009, click here.

Application Steps: 

Commit to reading through God's Word in 2010.  Through prayer and today's power verses, defeat the enemy's attempts to convince you this goal is unattainable. 

Purchase the Chronological Bible and begin to pray and become empowered to accomplish the goal in 2010.  Subscribe to Wendy's blog to receive daily encouragement throughout the year.

Reflections: 

Do I fear setting goals?  Why or why not?

Do I truly believe all things are possible through Christ?  Explain.

Power Verses:

Isaiah 50:4b, "He wakens me morning by morning, wakens my ear to listen like one being taught." (NIV)

Psalm 119:105, "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path." (NIV)

Proverb 2:1-5, "My son, if you accept my words and store up my commands within you, turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding, and if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding, and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God." (NIV) 

2 Timothy 1:7, "For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline." (NLT)

© 2009 by Wendy Pope. All rights reserved.

Proverbs 31 Ministries

616-G Matthews-Mint Hill Road

Matthews, NC 28105

www.proverbs31.org

[Judy Harder]

November 3, 2009

I Would Have Made a Great Pharisee

Glynnis Whitwer

"Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of greed and self-indulgence."

Matthew 23:25 (NIV)

Devotion:

Give me a list of rules to follow and I'm happy.  I can follow rules like nobody's business.  My left-brain dominated thinking likes order and routine, blanketed with no surprises.  There's some comfort, I guess, in being able to assess my performance according to a set standard.  If I'm obeying the rules, I must be doing ok.  Right?

There's one big problem with that line of thinking.  It tends to redirect my focus from what really matters: the condition of my heart.  Jesus identified this problem with a group of religious people back in the day called the Pharisees, and it didn't make Him happy.  In fact, He reserved His harshest comments for those people whose insides didn't look anything like their outsides. 

I wonder if the Pharisees were well-intentioned.  Did they really want to serve God and thought they were by following the rules?  Or was it more of a power play to gain respect?  Either way, Jesus split open their pretty packaging and revealed the ugliness of their hearts.  Just like He does with me. 

It seems God continually brings me to the end of my endurance, both emotionally and physically, to reveal the truth about my heart.  What's revealed in those moments of pressure is usually something that needs addressing, like selfishness, insecurity, jealousy or bitterness.  Getting split apart isn't pleasant.  In fact, it's often painful and embarrassing.  Yet, it's required if I want to become a true follower of Christ. 

The reality is I would have made a great Pharisee. But the truth is I'd rather be a great disciple.  I'd rather be sitting at the feet of Jesus than teaching in the temple.  I'd rather share a simple meal of bread with Jesus than a fancy feast elsewhere.  And if that requires the ugliness in my heart gets spilled out, then so be it. 

Cause at the end of the day, I'd much rather hang out with Jesus who loves me in spite of all that junk.  The other option is pretending it isn't there, but that's not fooling anyone.  So, I'll welcome God's holy intrusion in my life, submit my need to rank my performance, and spend more time attending to my heart.  That's what really matters.

Dear Lord, You are holy and righteous, and yet You love me just as I am.  Thank You for calling me to a higher level of obedience, one that requires I submit my heart and my life. I long to follow You more than anything. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

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

When Your Child is Hurting and other resources by Glynnis Whitwer.

Visit Glynnis' blog - Welcome Home...Where Your Heart Longs to be

A Perfect Mess: Why You Don't Have to Worry About Being Good Enough for God by Lisa Harper

Application Steps: 

Identify an area of your life where following the "rules" has taken priority over having a right heart.  Submit that area of your life to God in prayer and ask Him to reveal anything in your heart that needs addressing.

Reflections: 

How does a strict adherence to rule-following hinder us at times from obeying all of God's commands?

Read the key verse at the top of the devotion.  Why is hypocrisy such a dangerous condition in our lives?

Power Verses:

Psalm 51:10, "Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me." (NIV)

Matthew 23:23, "Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You give a tenth of your spices—mint, dill and cumin. But you have neglected the more important matters of the law—justice, mercy and faithfulness. You should have practiced the latter, without neglecting the former."  (NIV)

© 2009 by Glynnis Whitwer. All rights reserved.

Proverbs 31 Ministries

616-G Matthews-Mint Hill Road

Matthews, NC 28105

www.proverbs31.org