Encouragement for Today

[Judy Harder]

June 29, 2010

Sanctuary Isn't a Great Pair of Jeans

Lynn Cowell

"We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain, where Jesus who went before us, has entered on our behalf..." Hebrews 6:19-20a (NIV)

Devotion:

As I got dressed, the brand name label in my jeans caught my eye: Sanctuary. Really? They definitely are my favorite pair of jeans, but could they really be considered a sanctuary?

This word "sanctuary" keeps showing up in my life. My family recently took a much needed respite away from our busy and demanding schedules. We went to a place whose motto is "Escape completely." That sounded perfect to me.

One morning, I headed to a spot they called "The Sanctuary." Anticipating a great time with the Lord, I found a quiet chair overlooking the peaceful water. Settling in, I had my Bible open and journal and pen in hand when I heard "Excuse me Ma'am. Do you have your Sanctuary card?" Sanctuary card? You've got to be kidding? I have to have a separate card to get into "The Sanctuary?" I picked up my things and found another cozy spot two feet outside of "The Sanctuary" where I didn't have to have the appropriate card to meet with God.

Opening my Bible again I could hardly believe my reading:

"We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain, where Jesus who went before us, has entered on our behalf..." (Hebrews 6:19, NIV).

I had not been allowed to enter "The Sanctuary" two feet away because I didn't have the right card, but because of Jesus, I could enter the true sanctuary...His presence.

The Bible says a true sanctuary is not a place created with comfy chairs, soft music and views of the water. It is a place where the presence of God pours over us like a healing balm and Jehovah-Rophe, our healer, is present.

Combining the many definitions of sanctuary in the dictionary, I created this one: A place in God's presence where I can find shelter or protection from danger or trouble, finding relief and escape, and exemption from liability and prosecution.

The Psalmist spoke of his need for just such a sanctuary throughout Psalm 73:

Surely God is good to Israel, to those who are pure in heart.

But as for me, my feet had almost slipped; I had nearly lost my foothold.

(Sometimes in life, I feel like I'm hanging on the edge. Something has happened; causing me to feel like I'm going to lose it. What are you doing, God?)

For I envied the arrogant when I saw the prosperity of the wicked.

They have no struggles; their bodies are healthy and strong. 

They are free from the burdens common to man; they are not plagued by human ills.

This is what the wicked are like—always carefree, they increase in wealth.

(Sometimes in the middle of our pain, we look around at others, and ask - "Why is their life going well? And why isn't this Christian life thing working for me?)

Surely in vain have I kept my heart pure; in vain have I washed my hands in innocence.

All day long I have been plagued; I have been punished every morning.

(He just doesn't get it. Why is his life a mess? Can you relate?)

When I tried to understand all this, it was oppressive to me till I entered the sanctuary of God; then I understood their final destiny.

(In the sanctuary of God, things changed. In the presence of Jehovah-Rophe my healer, I can find relief; escape and exemption from liability and prosecution. I find healing.)

Yet I am always with you; you hold me by my right hand.

You guide me with your counsel, and afterward you will take me into glory.

Whom have I in heaven but you? And earth has nothing I desire besides you.

My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.

But as for me, it is good to be near God. I have made the Sovereign LORD my refuge;

I will tell of all your deeds (verses:1-5, 12-14, 16-17, and 23-28).

Sounds like the Psalmist really got it and it doesn't sound to me like a sanctuary can really be a pair of jeans!

Dear Lord, sometimes I feel like I need to escape completely. May the only place I escape to be You. When I feel like I want to run, help me to run straight into Your arms!  In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

Do You Know Him?

The Wonder of His Love: A Journey into the Heart of God by Nancy Stafford
When a Woman Meets Jesus: Finding the Love Every Woman Longs For by Dorothy Valcarcel
Find sweet encouragement with our free resource The Shelter

You are My Hiding Place, Lord: Finding Peace in God's Presence by Emilie Barnes
Application Steps: 

Want to learn some ways to run into God's presence in the middle of your hectic life? Join Lynn at her blog today for some fresh ideas!

Reflections: 

Are you making it a point to come into God's presence, His sanctuary, on a regular basis in order to be refreshed by Him?

When you feel like escaping, what is the thing that you turn to?


If you are not running to Him when you feel like running, what can you do to change that habit?

Power Verses:

Psalm 73:28, "But as for me, it is good to be near God. I have made the Sovereign LORD my refuge; I will tell of all your deeds." (NIV)

© 2010 by Lynn Cowell. All rights reserved.
Proverbs 31 Ministries
616-G Matthews-Mint Hill Road
Matthews, NC 28105
www.proverbs31.org

 

[Judy Harder]

June 30, 2010

The Committee

Susanne Scheppmann

  "You shall follow the Lord your God and fear Him; and you shall keep His commandments, listen to His voice, serve Him, and cling to Him."

Deuteronomy 13:4 (NASB)

Devotion:

A committee of voices live in my head. Most days they are quiet. However, when a pivotal decision develops, they all want to chime in with their points of view. All the personalities clash and clang about, making a ruckus rather than a decision. Here's an example of the conversations that might be heard on any given day.

Miss Scaredy-cat whispers, "Don't do it. You'll fail."

Mrs. I Can Do shouts, "Go ahead. Go for it! What's the worst thing that can happen?"

Ms. Prideful says, "What will other people think? I wonder what they will say?"

Miss Procrastination states, "Just wait to make the decision. Wait another day."

Now I know that Jesus said, "My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me" (John 10:27, NIV). Yet, I admit sometimes His beloved voice gets lost in the clatter of "The Committee." I lean toward being a type-A personality with lots of ideas and dreams. So, my own strong personality voices are difficult to squelch. Unfortunately, God's voice is usually the quietest whisper among the din of fear, pride and procrastination.   

The Committee visits me frequently, and the bigger the decision, the more noise erupts in my thoughts. Life-changing choices create the biggest clash of voices. Decisions concerning relational conflicts, career changes, and ministry efforts generate non-stop thoughts in me.

So how do I keep The Committee subdued? For myself, I have found that I need to physically go to a place of quiet where I can sit and listen to God. I take my Bible and read a few Psalms. I sit. I wait. I still my mind. Eventually (it takes time), my spirit and my personality calm down and then I can begin to discern God's quiet voice. The Committee takes a recess and God takes command. When His voice is in control, I feel the "peace that passes understanding." It enables me to think rationally without all the emotional inner dialogue.

Although the decision making process will never be easy for me, I can make the process more palatable by listening for God's direction. I need to appoint the Holy Spirit as the chairperson. I must sit quietly and still The Committee in my head so that I am able to discern the whisper of God.   

Dear Lord, quiet my thoughts. Teach me to sit still and listen. Train me to hear Your voice. Grant me the ability to discern Your thoughts and will for my life. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

Embraced by the Father: Finding Grace in the Names of God by Susanne Scheppmann
More peace and perspective is offered with our Radio program White Noise

10-Minute Time Outs for Busy Women by Grace Fox
Application Steps: 

Determine to set aside 30 minutes for a time of stillness. Choose a quiet place to sit and reflect. Read three or four Psalms. Close your eyes and listen.  Ask God to speak to your heart.

Reflections: 

Do I consider making decisions a difficult process? Why or why not?

What types of "voices" try to influence my choices?

When a decision needs to be made, do I try to listen to the God's voice?

Power Verses:

Isaiah 28:23, "Listen and hear my voice; pay attention and hear what I say." (NIV)

Psalms 46:10, "Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth." (KJV)

1 Kings 19:11-13, "The LORD said, 'Go out and stand on the mountain in the presence of the Lord, for the Lord is about to pass by. Then a great and powerful wind tore the mountains apart and shattered the rocks before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake.
After the earthquake came a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire came a gentle whisper. When Elijah heard it, he pulled his cloak over his face and went out and stood at the mouth of the cave. Then a voice said to him, 'What are you doing here, Elijah?'" (NIV)

© 2010 by Susanne Scheppmann. All rights reserved.
Proverbs 31 Ministries
616-G Matthews-Mint Hill Road
Matthews, NC 28105
www.proverbs31.org

 

[Judy Harder]

July 1, 2010

My Mother's Hands

T. Suzanne Eller

"Three things will last forever--faith, hope, and love--and the greatest of these is love."

1 Corinthians 13:13 (NLT)
         
Devotion:

She held out the soft white blanket scalloped in pink ribbon. "I'm not sure I want to give it to her," my mom said. The stitches were a bit looser than my mother's past handiwork, but I could see love in every crocheted inch.

I held her hands in my own. Her once slender fingers were bent and swollen at the joints. I imagined her holding the crochet needles and weaving the yarn in and out for hours, days, until the blanket was complete. It is an heirloom for her first great-grandchild, one created with pain and love.

I think I take my mother's hands for granted. They have caressed my cheek. They have made me wear a coat (even when I protested that I was a mother of three grown children). They have dialed the cell phone she loves, and hates, so she could talk to "her Suzie." Her hands have penned cards that showed up in my mailbox saying "I love you."

There's an old 70s song that says, "Time keeps on slipping, slipping, into the future." There is truth in those lyrics. I see the passage of time in my mother's hands. I also see it as moments pass into hours and then into days in a whirl. Life is always busy, like this month when the white board on the refrigerator lists church events, speaking engagements, dentist visits, showers and weddings and graduations, as well as other details like pay the bills, mow the lawn, clean the house.

Recently I realized that my mother was moving further down on that list. A week passed. A month flew by. The phone calls came. "Hey, Suz, just calling to say I miss you."

One day I received an e-mail from a friend. Her mom was sick. For the next few weeks I prayed, reading every update. One night I read the e-mail from my beautiful friend that expressed her love for her ailing mom, and prayer for strength to say goodbye. Suddenly it hit me how little time I actually devoted to my mother. I held the e-mail and wept. The next day I made a date with my mom. She was like a girl; she laughed on the phone as we made plans.

I pray that I have many more opportunities to hang out with my mom, but more than that I pray that I don't take her for granted. 

Life most likely won't slow down. But as I devote time to worthwhile endeavors, I don't want to forget that in the grand scheme of things, holding my mother's hands is one of the most priceless investments I'll ever make.

Dear Father, thank You for my loved ones. Life gets so hectic, and sometimes it's hard to slow down long enough to show them how much I care. Please help me to slow down and recognize what is of little value so that I can invest in people with immense value. In Your precious Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

Do You Know Him?

The Woman I Am Becoming by T. Suzanne Eller
The Mom I Want to be: Rising above Your Past to Give Your Kids a Great Future by T. Suzanne Eller
Visit Suzie's blog where she will give away a copy of The Mom I Want to be: Rising above Your Past to Give Your Kids a Great Future, co-written by Suzie and her mom.
The Overwhelmed Woman's Guide to Caring for Aging Parents by Julie-Allyson Ieron
Application Steps: 

Love tokens:

1. Write. Leave a note in an unexpected place.

2. Give. Spend time with no strings attached (help work in the garden, go to lunch, sit and chat).

3. Touch. Especially if your loved one is older or widowed and they are not touched in positive ways any more. (Massage their hands. Hold their hand. Touch their face or hair.)

4. Affirm. Tell them one encouraging thing that you believe about them.

Reflections:

Is there someone you need to spent more time with?

"The most important thing that should totally absorb our lives down here is the practice of real love. Why? Because love lasts. Love will be the only thing that matters in eternity." ~Jill Brisco, author of Love that Lasts.

Power Verses:

John 15:12b, "Love each other in the same way I have loved you." (NLT)

Matthew 6:21, "Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be." (NLT)

© 2010 by T. Suzanne Eller. All rights reserved.
Proverbs 31 Ministries
616-G Matthews-Mint Hill Road
Matthews, NC 28105
www.proverbs31.org

[Judy Harder]

July 2, 2010

Is God Enough?

Melissa Taylor

"And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus."  Philippians 4:19 (NIV)

Devotion:

Is God enough?  It's a question that my life circumstances force me to keep going back to.  What I've concluded is that not only is God enough, but He has to be enough.  I've also concluded that it takes effort on my part to keep myself aware of this. 

As a young child, I didn't realize my need for God, but I did realize that I had a need that was not fulfilled.  I was sexually abused when I was seven years old.  My dad left our family when I was eleven.  Both circumstances left me devastated, and I didn't understand how God could bring healing at that time.  I spent many years trying to heal myself and make myself feel better.  Nothing worked.

As I grew older and began to move from being a Christian who simply believed to a Christian who was actively involved with Jesus, my life began to change.  Because I was having conversations with Him directly and reading His Word consistently, my life was challenged.  I learned that when the hard knocks came, and they would, I needed to ask myself one question in order to move on.  "Is God enough?"

When a friend betrays me, is God enough?

When I need to forgive someone for something that seems unforgivable, is God enough?

When my child is having issues that are out of my control, is God enough?

When my marriage is on the brink of destruction, is God enough?

When I am not forgiven by another person, is God enough?

When my mother is dying of cancer, is God enough?

When others don't recognize my value, is God enough?

When I am struggling professionally, is God enough?

When someone I love uses words to hurt me, is God enough?

When I am in debt and don't know how I'll pay my bills, is God enough?

When I am reminded of something I did in the past, is God enough?

When the world is in turmoil, is God enough?

When my health is declining, is God enough?

When I am let down and disappointed in my life, is God enough?

Just last night, I sat in my room crying.  Here I was again asking, "Is God enough?"  I opened a box full of personalized Bible verses that someone very special gave to me.  I began reading them out loud to myself.  Verse by verse, I began combating the thoughts that were paralyzing me with self doubt.  What I discovered is the conclusion I always come to when I ask myself "Is God enough?"  Yes He is.

I could lose everything in life.  There's not anything I have here on earth that is guaranteed.  If I lost it all though, I'd be okay because no one can take away my identity in Christ.  Whether I live in a mansion on a hill or a shack in the swamp, I have my Jesus.  Whether the world is for me or against me, I have my Jesus.  When I am knocked down, I get on my knees and there I find my Jesus.  His Word is planted deep in my heart and I believe it all.

When life becomes more than you think you can handle, don't quit.  And certainly don't believe the lies you may be entertaining in your head.  Instead, ask yourself, "Is God enough for me?"  The answer could change everything.

Dear Lord, help me to realize that the secret to being content in all circumstances is You.  Help me to be aware of Your presence in my life at all times.  In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources: 

Women's Devotional Bible  (NIV)

Crazy Love: Overwhelmed by a Relentless God by Francis Chan
When Life and Beliefs Collide: How Knowing God Makes a Difference by Carolyn Custis James
Visit Melissa's blog

Read the story of how God was enough to two women in His Amazing Touch

Application Steps: 

Honestly assess if God is enough in your life.  Do you find yourself needing or wanting more?  Remind yourself that God knows you inside and out.  He loves you no matter what and He always will.

Reflections: 

What can you do today to remind yourself that God is enough?

Is there a situation in your life that you need to turn over to the Lord?

Power Verses:

Psalm 33:4, "For the word of the Lord is right and true; he is faithful in all he does."  (NIV)

Isaiah 46:3b-4, "You whom I have upheld since your were conceived, and have carried since your birth.  Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you.  I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you."  (NIV)

© 2010 by Melissa Taylor. All rights reserved.
Proverbs 31 Ministries
616-G Matthews-Mint Hill Road
Matthews, NC 28105
www.proverbs31.org

[Judy Harder]

July 5, 2010

Priceless in His Sight

Ariel Allison Lawhon, She Reads Co-Director

"How priceless is Your unfailing love! Both high and low among men find refuge in the shadow of Your wings." Psalm 36:7 (NIV)

Devotion:

Like many other Russian orphans, Masha was forced out of an orphanage at 15 and sent to a tech school - an underfunded holding tank for kids who learn how to lay brick or paint walls. One day, a group of professional looking, wealthy women came to the school and interviewed the girls for the best jobs in Russia. They were promised fancy clothes, expensive jewelry, and all the money they could hope for. Masha was chosen, and assumed her dreams had come true.

However, she quickly realized this dream had turned into an ugly nightmare.

She was taken to an apartment and beaten. In a matter of hours she would be entering the sex trade. The life that loomed before her was one of forced prostitution.

This is a story that's repeated across the globe in staggering numbers. In Eastern Europe alone, 200,000 women and children are sold into slavery every year. Innocents shipped off to brothels, never reported missing and never rescued. The sex trade is now a multi-billion dollar industry and the United States is one of the biggest consumers. I imagine Jesus weeping. We should as well.

Though some consider these women and children a commodity, something to be bought and sold, God sees their worth: priceless, cherished, beautiful. Our value as human beings is not calculated in assets or financial holdings, gender or age, or what we can bring on some shady black market auction block, but as image-bearers of God. Every human is priceless because we are formed by the hand of God for His glory, made for a purpose that was never meant to include slavery or violation. We believe this. And we must put that faith into action.

The good news is that not every story ends in suffering. Masha, for one, escaped her terrible fate. As she waited in that apartment for a group of men to claim her, she remembered a ministry center sponsored by Children's HopeChest - an organization run by She Reads author Tom Davis. She remembered being cared for and shown the love of Christ there. Masha escaped the apartment and ran to the HopeChest Ministry Center in Kostroma where the staff immediately called the authorities and gave her protection.

Today she is safe, receiving an education, and has a future - because of the caring work of believers, believers just like you and me.  There is hope for girls like Masha and there are tangible things that every believer in Christ can do to help those who are not as fortunate. Starting with prayer...

Dear Lord, would You have mercy on the countless victims who are locked away, suffering the unspeakable? Comfort them. Redeem them. Be their hope and their ransom. But more than that, Jesus, would You show me what I can do to help? Show me how to be a voice for mercy and justice. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

Do You Know Him?

She Reads author, Tom Davis, knows what it means to walk into the darkest places on earth and show mercy. His novel Priceless tells the gripping story of a young Russian girl swept into the sex trade. The novel is this month's She Reads selection - visit the site to learn more about the novel and enter today's giveaway for coffee and a copy!

Priceless by Tom Davis

Consider sponsoring a child and help them be released from poverty through Compassion International - your sponsorship could keep them off the streets and safe from the slavery trade.

Too Small to Ignore: Why the Least of These Matters Most by Dr. Wess Stafford
Application Steps: 

Visit Tom Davis's blog, www.sheispriceless.com to learn how you can help those trapped in the sex slave industry.

Pray that God's mercy will extend to every victim of this horrible situation.

Give to ministries that rescue women and children from the sex trade.

Sponsor orphans in need of shelter and protection.

Get educated on the realities of the sex slave industry.

Be vigilant to watch for victims near you - it happens in every city in the United States.

Reflections: 

Does my heart break over the things that break God's heart?

Power Verses:

Isaiah 43:1, "But now, this is what the LORD says— he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel: 'Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine.'" (NIV)

Zechariah 7:9, "This is what the LORD Almighty says: 'Administer true justice; show mercy and compassion to one another.'" (NIV)

© 2010 by Ariel Allison Lawhon. All rights reserved.

Proverbs 31 Ministries
616-G Matthews-Mint Hill Road
Matthews, NC 28105
www.proverbs31.org

[Judy Harder]

July 6, 2010

Establishing Moral Authority

Glynnis Whitwer

"Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another's feet.  I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you." John 13:14-15 (NIV)

Devotion:

Talking with my son one day, I mentioned I thought I might have made a good lawyer.  I love discovering facts, proving my point and standing for justice.  It wasn't a real longing, just a passing comment in an afternoon filled with incidental but pleasurable conversation.

At my observation, my son adamantly replied, "You would make a horrible lawyer!" 

I looked at him with curiosity and surprise dressing my face.  He continued, "You would never lie.  In fact, you could boast the fastest conviction rates in your ads.  I can see you standing before the judge saying, 'Your honor, my client is guilty!'"

We both laughed at that comment.  And I completely agreed with his assessment of my lawyering potential.  I guess it's a good thing I stuck with writing. 

My son made an exaggerated comment that day to make an observation about my character.  We both know there are lawyers with the highest integrity.  That wasn't his point.  His point was his mother doesn't lie. 

His comment snuggled its way into my heart and has stayed there ever since.  I make a lot of mistakes in my parenting, but apparently I've done something right.  My son knows the real me - the good, bad and ugly.  And in this one area of my life, my son has made a crucial observation of my character: it's consistent with what I say.

I've discovered that I'm influenced most by people whose lives match their words.  Interestingly, for these people, doing what's right is a natural way to honor God.  Their influence over me is a by-product of that devotion, and I'm changed by watching the unspoken alignment of their talk and walk.

Jesus had both authority and influence because His character and actions completely matched His words.  Twelve disciples watched His every move.  Because they found no inconsistencies, they grew to trust Jesus.  This gave Jesus a moral authority that superseded the authority of any other religious leader of the time. 

That's the type of mother, wife and friend I want to be. I want to be pursuing God with all my heart, and in so doing, establish moral authority in my life with those closest to me.  You see, I understand that even though I have authority with my children, I don't have influence unless there is consistency in my life.

Having my life match my words is one of my highest desires in life.  People will eventually notice inconsistencies in my life and when they do, it erodes my influence.  Sometimes, I only get one chance to influence the people around me.  Sadly, once lost, moral authority is very difficult to regain.

I don't always get it right.  There are plenty of times when my actions don't match my words.  But my son's comment inspired me to examine my life, and see where there are inconsistencies.  As I find them, I am being honest about my weakness, and seeking God's help to deal with them.  That's the only way I'll ever develop into the woman I know God wants me to be: one who doesn't have to shout to make her point, but whose quiet actions speak louder than words.

Dear Heavenly Father, I need Your help.  I want to be a woman whose life completely matches up to her words.  You know there are areas where I fall short, like patience.  I submit those areas to You, and ask for Your strength to be the women You want me to be. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

Need help with parenting?  You might enjoy When Your Child is Hurting by Glynnis Whitwer

P31 Woman magazine

Visit Glynnis' blog to continue this discussion

Help your teens strengthen their moral authority with Do Hard Things: A Teenage Rebellion Against Low Expectations by Brett and Alex Harris

Brokenness, Surrender, Holiness: A Revive Our Hearts Trilogy by Nancy Leigh DeMoss

Application Steps: 

Identify one area of your life that doesn't match what you say you believe.  (Examples might be honesty, patience, kindness, forgiveness)

Using a Bible concordance, search for scriptures that inspire you in this area.  Write them down and review them regularly.  ( Bible Gateway offers a free keywords search.)

Reflections: 

Why is moral authority so much more powerful that traditional authority?

What are some of the reasons we say one thing but do another?

Power Verses:

Galatians 5:22-23, "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law." (NIV)

Titus 2:11-12, "For the grace of God has been revealed, bringing salvation to all people. And we are instructed to turn from godless living and sinful pleasures. We should live in this evil world with wisdom, righteousness, and devotion to God." (NLT)

© 2010 by Glynnis Whitwer. All rights reserved.

Proverbs 31 Ministries

616-G Matthews-Mint Hill Road

Matthews, NC 28105

www.proverbs31.org

 

[Judy Harder]

July 7, 2009

The Sticker Book

Micca Monda Campbell

"Do not deprive each other except by mutual consent and for a time so that you may devote yourselves to prayer."I Corinthians 7:5a (NIV)

Devotion:

It took creative measures when it came to potty training our daughter. No sweet treat was good enough to get her ready for her big girl pants. It was going to take something she really loved to lure her into this next phase of life.

Suddenly, it came to me. My daughter loves stickers. This gave me a great idea. I hung a large poster board on the bathroom wall. With colorful markers, I divided the poster into weekly sections. In a basket on the floor, I placed an assortment of sparkly stickers. Peyton's eyes widened with excitement when I showed her my newly decorated bathroom. "Each time you go to the potty, I will give you a sticker to place on the poster board," I explained. "When you get a certain amount of stickers, I'll take you to the store where you can pick out a prize."

I've never seen a diaper come off so quickly before in my life. The stickers were working!

My husband also noticed how well the training was going. One day, he came in from work and tossed a sticker book on the kitchen counter where I was preparing dinner. "What's that?" I questioned.

"I noticed how the stickers were working for Peyton and I thought maybe they'd work for you too," he answered. I narrowed my eyes at him and thought what is he up to?

"Every time you and I have a romantic night, I'll give you a sticker to put in your sticker book. When you fill it up, I'll take you anywhere in the world you want to go." He continued with a huge grin on his face.

It's not that I didn't want to have romantic evenings with my husband, but most of the time tiredness trumped romance. You know what I mean? As women, we wear a lot of hats that require much responsibility. We are constantly pouring ourselves out for others. At the end of the day, all I want is a soothing bath and a warm bed. I suppose my husband could interpret that the wrong way. He probably feels like he only gets my leftovers. This is not God's plan and why He gave married couples this passage:

The wife's body does not belong to her alone but also to her husband. In the same way, the husband's body does not belong to him alone but also to his wife. Do not deprive each other except by mutual consent and for a time, so that you may devote yourselves to prayer. Then come together again so that Satan will not tempt you because of your lack of self-control" (I Corinthians 7:4-6).

God must have known both women and men would struggle in this area. Whoever is holding out in this, the Bible is clear. The cause of withholding should be mutual, short lived, and discussed openly and privately between husband and wife. The reason for this is so that no one falls into temptation. Communication also helps your spouse hold on to their confidence when they know the reason behind the struggle. After I shared with my husband the cause for my tiredness, he started pitching in around the house. Nothing is sexier than a man running the vacuum!

Working together can bring about great results. On the other hand, buying your spouse a sticker book might also move things in the right direction. I'll be honest. I've not yet filled my sticker book, but I'm working on it. The best reward is really not about visiting some exotic place. The best reward is sticking it out with my husband as we learn to communicate, work together and trust each other through the struggles of everyday life.

Dear Lord, my spouse is a gift to me from You. Give me the courage to talk honestly and openly with him/her. Use communication to deepen and strengthen our relationship in all areas. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

An Untroubled Heart: Finding Faith that is Stronger than My Fears by Micca Campbell

Visit Micca's blog

The Love Dare by Stephen and Alex Kendrick
Confessions of an Adulterous Woman: Lies that got me there, Truths that brought me back by Lyndell Hetrick Holtz
Check out Help! I Think I Misplaced My Sex Drive! for more free encouragement from one girlfriend to another

Application Steps: 

Sometimes taking to your spouse is all you need. Other times seeking medical care is the answer. A hormone imbalance can stifle your drive. Being overweight, anxious or depressed can also cause a loss of desire. Start by being open with your mate. Use the "Reflections" question below to get you started. You'll be glad you did.

Reflections: 

Why might you be holding out? Is it because you don't feel sexy, loved, or appreciated?  Are you stressed, addicted to porn, or struggling with lust for someone other than your spouse?  Are there other reasons?

Power Verses:

Ephesians 5:21, "Submit yourselves to one another in the fear of God." (NIV) 

© 2010 by Micca Campbell. All rights reserved.

Proverbs 31 Ministries

616-G Matthews-Mint Hill Road

Matthews, NC 28105

www.proverbs31.org

[Judy Harder]

July 8, 2010

Sometimes I Feel So Overlooked

Lysa TerKeurst

"After removing Saul, he made David their king. He testified concerning him: 'I have found David son of Jesse a man after my own heart, he will do everything I want him to do.'" Acts 13:22 (NIV)

Devotion:

I'm sorry. I try not to complain very often. I do know that I am incredibly blessed to have a grocery store down the street and a washer and dryer to use when doing laundry. But sometimes I wake up on Monday mornings a little grumpy. Time to do it all again. I'll go buy food that gets eaten. I'll wash clothes that get dirty again. I'll sweep floors that just an hour later will be littered with crumbs.

Is there more to all this than just doing the tasks of everyday life?

Before I jumped into the normal routine this morning, I sat with Jesus. And this is what I found... some big truths by taking a little glance at David's life.  Despite how other's saw him, his own propensity to sin, and his lack of position in his own family, David had the sweet reassurance of God and that was enough.

Overlooked by everyone else. Handpicked by God.

To his older brothers, he was a pest. To his father Jesse, he was just the youngest son. To on-lookers, he was just a shepherd boy. But to God, he was the one destined to be king. And not just any king. His lineage was the one from whom Jesus would come.

Overlooked by everyone else. Handpicked by God.

Even how he was anointed to be the future king is such a telling story. In 1 Samuel 16, God tells Samuel that He has rejected Saul as king and chosen one of Jesse's sons to be the replacement. Think of the list of qualifications that must have run through Samuel's head as he pondered which of Jesse's sons would be qualified for such a position: tall, smart, articulate, brave, groomed, well mannered, regal, a natural born leader. "But the Lord said to Samuel, 'Do not consider his outward appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. (meaning Saul who had these qualities.) The Lord does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart" (vs 7).

Overlooked by everyone else. Handpicked by God.

Next Samuel has Jesse line all of his sons up before him. All of them were to be looked at. Yet Jesse doesn't call David in from tending sheep. Was this an oversight? An assumption? A judgment call? A necessity? A deliberate choice?

Overlooked by everyone else. Handpicked by God.

Samuel passes on each of Jesse's sons and then asks, "Are these all the sons you have?"

I imagine Jesse with a quizzical expression replying, "There is still the youngest but he is tending sheep." Surely one who spends his time taking care of animals is not the one to take care of a nation.

Overlooked by everyone else. Handpicked by God.

As soon as Samuel saw him, he knew he was the one. David was anointed to become king. But he was not immediately ushered to the throne. It was years before David would be recognized by the world. So, where did he go after being anointed as king? To a refining school? A government academy? Military training? Nope.

He went back out into the fields and continued to shepherd his flock. A king doing lowly tasks.  A king whose character was being refined in the fields of everyday life to prepare him for his calling.

How like us. In the midst of smelly laundry, dirty dishes, snotty noses, misplaced keys, overdue library books, bills, and that birthday gift that still needs to be mailed to grandma - there is training there. There is character building. There is attitude shaping. There is soul defining. There is heart grounding. All which must take place for us to become what God intends.

Ever feel overlooked by the world? Take heart sister - we are handpicked by God.

I am not just doing tasks. I am building a legacy. I am shaping God's kingdom. I am in the process of not only discovering my calling but that of my family as well. And I don't know about you, but it sure does make me look at my everyday tasks, even the smelly laundry in a whole different light.

Dear Lord, thank You that even when I feel overlooked, I can rest in the fact that I am handpicked by You.  Help me to live my life for an audience of One.   In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

Visit Lysa's new interactive website full of free resources and encouraging videos.  You can get to www.LysaTerKeurst.com by clicking here.

Today's devotion is taken in part from Lysa's book and Bible Study, "Becoming More than a Good Bible Study Girl."  This is the perfect 6 week summer study or one to consider doing with your women's group this fall. To order your book, click here, to order your Bible study workbook and DVD study click here and here.

Am I Messing Up My Kids? by Lysa TerKeurst
Application Steps: 

Write down in your journal a list of qualities that you sense God is developing in you.  Next write down why you think God might find it necessary to develop you in this particular way.

Reflections:

Are there any tasks that you particularly struggle with not wanting to do?  Ask God for a new perspective and spend time listening for His voice while you do this job.

Power Verses:

Psalm 28:7a, "The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him, and I am helped." (NIV) 

2 Samuel 7:22, "How great you are, O Sovereign Lord! There is no one like you, and there is no God but you, as we have heard with our own ears." (NIV)

© 2010 by Lysa TerKeurst. All rights reserved.
Proverbs 31 Ministries616-G Matthews-Mint Hill Road
Matthews, NC 28105
www.Proverbs31.org

[Judy Harder]

July 9, 2010



The Valve

Luann Prater



"Likewise the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark."

James 3:5 (NIV)

         

Devotion:

My husband asked me to pick up some diesel fuel for the tractor.  I had his truck and he had put the gas can in a box so it wouldn't tip over.  Now, I'm 5'2", so can we just start there?  Things that taller-than-me folks can do becomes a bit more of an issue for this vertically challenged gal.  I pumped the gas into the can then tried to lift it, not only up to the bed of the truck, but over the top edge of the box.  It was then I discovered the little valve cover was open.



A cup of gas escaped through that tiny opening, and strategically ran from the top of my t-shirt to the top of my pants.  I panicked that my cell phone might ring and light my fire!  That wasn't the type of flame I was hoping God would fan in my life!



I scrubbed and scrubbed in the shower but the stench of gas remained in my nostrils. 



My lips are like that little valve.  It is such a small opening, yet the fuel that escapes can be unpleasant, caustic and even deadly.  Loose lips have snapped at my family.  Harsh tones have left friends feeling poisoned.  Careless words have killed the spirit in a vulnerable child. 



James tells us that our tongue is like a restless evil full of deadly poison. Ouch!  My husband didn't want me to spill that gas; we wanted to use it for good.  God doesn't want our tongues to open unless they are going to encourage and spur one another on. 



Several years ago I made a very small, but very life-changing decision.  When a hurtful thought comes into my head, I tighten my lips and force a pause button to appear in my brain.  When I allow myself to have just a second to think about the potential hazard that could come from 'speaking my mind' it gives the Holy Spirit time to check my heart and motives.  In that pause moment I say, "Lord, take control of this tongue."  And He does. 



Do I get it right every time? No. But I can see fewer wrecks in my life, fewer wounds, fewer poison-tipped darts flying out of this mouth. And I no longer reek of gasoline I added to the fire.



Want to join me? Pause. Seal up the valve and allow the Holy Spirit to work for good through the words you speak.

                                                                                                                                           

Dear Lord, thank You for reminding us that our tongue can rip a heart apart, or seal it back together.  Teach us to pause long enough to give Your Spirit time to work in and through us. In Jesus' Name, Amen.



Related Resources:

Do You Know Him?

30 Days to Taming Your Tongue: What You Say (and Don't Say) Will Improve Your Relationships and accompanying Workbook
Chat more with Luann on her blog or hear her on Encouragement Café every Saturday!

Self Talk, Soul Talk: What to Say When You Talk to Yourself by Jennifer Rothschild
For more daily encouragement, follow us on Twitter and Facebook!



Application Steps: 

Before anything negative slips past your lips today, hit the pause button. Pray that the Holy Spirit take control. Ask God to make you a peacemaker.



Reflections: 

Why do I say things I regret later?



When will I surrender my tongue to Jesus?



How can I allow my words to encourage instead of destroy?



Power Verses:

James 3:17, "But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere." (NIV)



Proverbs 27:15, "A quarrelsome wife is like a constant dripping on a rainy day." (NIV)





© 2010 by Luann Prater. All rights reserved.



Proverbs 31 Ministries

616-G Matthews-Mint Hill Road

Matthews, NC 28105

www.proverbs31.org

[Judy Harder]

 July 12, 2010

When I'm on My Knees

Melanie Chitwood

"If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous

to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."

1 John 1:9 (NAS)

Devotion:

Bending down with rag in hand, I wiped the coffee spills off the kitchen floor. Then my eye caught the spills dribbled down the cupboard door. I'm surprised I haven't seen that before, I thought to myself as I continued to clean. Okay, I'll just spend some time on my knees on this kitchen floor. Wow, there's more dog hair down here than linoleum. And there's that ball the boys have been looking for.

I thought I had thoroughly cleaned the kitchen, but on my knees I could see many things I had never seen before. So it is in my prayer life. Whether I'm literally on my knees or sitting in my big chair as I usually do when I pray, I'm often amazed to see how my perspective changes in prayer. 

A quiet time of humbling ourselves before the Lord will allow Him the time to reveal anything that doesn't please Him.  Psalm 139:23, 24 offers us a model of a prayer: "Search me, O God, and know my heart; try me and know my anxious thoughts; and see if there be any hurtful way in me, and lead me in the everlasting way."

When we see the dirt in our lives, we need to make sure we don't move to self-condemnation, but instead take the step God desires from us: confessing our sin to the Lord.

It's important to recognize that sin grieves our Holy Father, so much so that He sacrificed His precious Son for our sin.  We need to call sin what it is; it's not a bad habit, a bad choice, or a mistake. Sin is sin, and its roots are rebellion and independence from God. By His death on a cross Jesus has already forgiven us, but confessing our sins is a way of acknowledging and remembering that we need a Savior. 

By being honest with God about our sin, we discover a great treasure: He loves us just as we are, and at the same time He wants to transform our character to be like His.

Dear Lord, thank You, Jesus, for Your death on a cross.  I never want to take that lightly.  In a world where it's more acceptable to be tolerant, I want to remember that You are a holy God who does not tolerate sin.  I am a sinner in constant need of Your grace, forgiveness, and love!  Thank You for paying the price for my sins.  I need You every minute of every day to empower me to be more like You.  In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

Visit Melanie's blog What Matters Most

What a Wife Needs from Her Husband by Melanie Chitwood

Pierced By the Word: 31 Meditations for Your Soul by John Piper
Application Steps: 

Print out this devotion, look up each Scripture in the devotion, and spend time quietly meditating on them.

If you're not sure you're a child of God, you are only a prayer away from assurance!  Click on Do You Know Him? for guidance in praying.

Go to Melanie's blog, What Matters Most, where you'll find a link to worship music to help you turn your heart and mind toward God.

Reflections: 

Do you take time to be quiet before the Lord? Can you take time right now to confess your sin?  Know that God loves you.  He is not eager to condemn, but to forgive you.   

Power Verses:

Romans 6:23, "For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." (NAS)

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

© 2010 by Melanie Chitwood. All rights reserved.
Proverbs 31 Ministries
616-G Matthews-Mint Hill Road
Matthews, NC 28105
www.Proverbs31.org