Encouragement for Today

[Judy Harder]

February 24, 2011
God's Love Changes Everything
Micca Monda Campbell


"Go now and leave your life of sin."
John 8:11b (NIV)           

Devotion:
In the story of the adulteress woman found in John 8:1-11, we can see clearly that Christ's love is greater than sin.


It must have been an unruly scene until Jesus stepped into the situation. Caught in the very act by the Pharisees, the woman's fate hung in the balance. I imagine that the adulteress woman felt unbearable loneliness and fear as she lay naked in the streets at the mercy of those whose desire was to stone her to death.

Sin does that. It separates us from God, causing us to experience isolation and fear. This is a sure sign we need to search our souls and confess our sins so that we can have peace and enjoy Christ's sweet presence again.

On the other hand, it's not a sign that God's love is absent.

For years, I held on to my mixed bag of emotions blaming God and others for my troubles. I was alone, afraid, and angry, but not by my choice I reasoned. I was this way because others gave up on me, I insisted. And Christ—well, if He really cared then why didn't He free me from the pain that haunted me day and night?

Over time, I opened my eyes to the real problem. Instead of looking at myself, my eyes were always on someone else. When I finally did take a good long look at myself, I realized I was a child of God who had stomped my foot, crossed my arms, and turned my back on Him for not letting me have my way. Holding the Lord at arm's length only prolonged the healing of my wounds. In that honest moment with myself, I let go of my anger and fear and re-opened my heart to God.

Broken before the Lord, I asked for His forgiveness. I surrendered anew to His plan for my life. What was God's response? It was pure grace. I got up from my knees a new person. I was no longer afraid or angry—just filled with Christ's love and peace.

The adulteress woman also found indescribable love when she came face to face with her sin and her Savior. Publicly caught in the act of adultery, she must have felt shame and brokenness. But feeling broken is actually a good emotional place to be when we need to reach out for Christ's love and forgiveness.

All eyes were on Jesus as the Pharisees waited with rocks in hand to see if Christ would condemn and punish her. Jesus said, "Let any one of you that is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her" (vs. 7b). I picture the woman, hardly believing her ears, staring deep into the Savior's eyes. First with great terror, but then knowing by His gentle eyes that no matter what happened next, she could face it.

She must have felt relief when she heard the rocks drop to the ground and the scattering of feet. Then, "Jesus asked her, 'Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?' 'No one, sir,' she said. 'Then neither do I condemn you,' Jesus declared. 'Go now and leave your life of sin.'" (vs. 10-11)

Jesus gave this woman what every heart needs—love and forgiveness. Don't misunderstand. The woman was guilty and, according to the laws of the day, should have been put to death. However, instead of condemning her Jesus chose to save her.

He chose to save us all by dying on the cross as payment for our sins. Do you need forgiveness today? The Bible offers this promise: "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness" (1John 1:9).

Just look at me. I'm living proof.

Dear Lord, I have felt so guilty. Today, as I look into Your eyes of love, I believe that You are reaching out and offering me forgiveness. I accept. Renew my spirit as I turn from my sin and run into the safety of Your embrace. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

Do You Know Him?

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

Visit Micca's blog for ways to avoid temptation and sin

Confessions of a Good Christian Girl: The Secrets Women Keep and the Grace that Saves Them by Tammy Maltby

Confessions of an Adulterous Christian Woman: Lies that Got Me There, Truths that Brought Me Back by Lyndell Hetrick Holtz

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


Application Steps: 
Turn from your sin, as Christ told the woman to do. And turn toward Christ. Find support to do so through church fellowship, Bible study, and daily prayer.


Reflections: 
How does the truth that God wants to restore me instead of condemn me make me feel? Am I ready to confess my sin and start anew?


Power Verses:
Romans 6:14, "For sin shall no longer be your master, because you are not under the law, but under grace." (NIV) 




© 2011 by Micca Campbell. All rights reserved.
Proverbs 31 Ministries
616-G Matthews-Mint Hill Road
Matthews, NC 28105
www.Proverbs31.org

[Judy Harder]

February 25, 2011
Home Shaping
Karen Ehman


"But if you refuse to serve the Lord, then choose today whom you will serve. Would you prefer the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates? Or will it be the gods of the Amorites in whose land you now live? But as for me and my family, we will serve the Lord." Joshua 24:15 (NLT)


Devotion:
They stood piled high on the living room coffee table: pristinely wrapped boxes with curly, coordinating bows and snappy gift bags whose transparent tissue papers peeked out of their tops with anticipation.


Nearly three dozen friends eagerly gathered for an open house for my new found friend Thida. A Cambodian native, Thida met my friend Marcia's eldest son Keith when he was studying abroad in her country. Now married and living in the United States, our circle of friends showered Thida with well-wishes and the heartfelt welcome of an old-fashioned housewarming party.


What domestic treasures she opened that night! New fluffy towels in deep jewel tones; contemporary metal candleholders and spicy-scented candles; kitchen utensils and casserole dishes; picture frames and pots. Ever a soft-spoken and grateful soul, this sweet twenty-something new bride was visually humbled and verbally thankful with each package she unwrapped.


Every so often, she would look at the crowd and utter the same phrase, "Oh.....I want to thank you so much for helping me to shape our home."


We knew what Thida meant. She meant to "furnish" her home; to decorate and outfit it with needed and useful items. However, somehow when trying to get her sentiments across by speaking in English, her second language, the phrase she continually chose was "shape our home."


As I heard sweet Thida utter these words many times that night, it struck a chord within my soul. In essence this group of siblings, aunts, cousins, and grandparents-by-marriage, along with an abundance of new friends, were doing exactly that!


Thida is from a country where, of the 14.5 million inhabitants, only a few thousand claim to follow Christ. Over 95% of Cambodians are practicing Buddhists.


Thida began a relationship with Jesus through the example of an aunt and, although the rest of her family is still Buddhist, this strong woman now loves and serves the God of the Bible. She chose to break from her parents' tradition to begin a new life with Christ. And, aside from her aunt, she had no one who could help her to know just what it meant to live life as a woman and wife according to God's ways.


Thida made a choice. Rather than choosing the false god of her ancestors, she choose the true God of the Bible. And she and her husband desire nothing more than to build their home and grow a family someday according to the ways of the Lord. And now we, as her circle of support in her new country of residence, will try our best to encourage her in her endeavors; to model a Christian home with our actions and decisions. Yes, you could say in essence that we all have made a covenant to help precious Thida to do exactly what she declared—to "shape her home."


Do you know another woman who has made a decision for Christ? One who left her former ways to walk in the ways of the Lord? If so, there are eyes upon you, watching, soaking and learning. What will she see? Will you help her shape her earthly home, and her heart's home, with God's truths while building on the foundations of Christ?


Home shaping is significant business. May we all be mirrors that reflect Christ to those who are watching, soaking and learning. And yes....perhaps even shaping.


Dear Lord, may I be ever mindful there are others looking to me for an example of how to shape our lives according to Your ways. In Jesus' Name, Amen.


Related Resources:
For more encouragement and a "Home-Shaping" themed basket giveaway, visit Karen's blog


A Life that Says Welcome by Karen Ehman

Treasured: Knowing God by the Thing He Keeps by Leigh McLeroy
Shaped with Purpose Workbook and accompanying CD is a wonderful gift for women in your life!
Application Steps: 
What are some ways you try to weave the Bible's commands into your home life?

List one practical way you could help a new believer to align their family relationships with Christ.

Reflections: 
Have I ever known someone who gave up the religion of his or her ancestors to follow Jesus? What adjustments did he or she have to make? What obstacles were faced?

How can I help others who are new in the faith to ground their hearts in God, His Word and His ways?

Power Verses:
Luke 4:8 "And Jesus answered him, 'It is written, you shall worship the Lord your God, and him only shall you serve.'" (ESV)

© 2011 by Karen Ehman. All rights reserved.
Proverbs 31 Ministries
616-G, Matthews-Mint Hill Road
Matthews, NC 28105
www.Proverbs31.org

[Judy Harder]

February 28, 2011
Always the Same
Zoe Elmore


"You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God,
you will receive what he has promised." Hebrews 10:36 (NIV)               

Devotion:

Turn off the alarm, stumble to the coffee pot, get myself ready, eat breakfast, and drive to the office. My morning routine is always the same. I could probably get through it with my eyes shut and, truth be told, many mornings I do. Except for the part where I'm driving of course.


Upon entering the office I begin another routine. Five phone lines incessantly ring while clients impatiently wait to check in. Appointments are made, changed and cancelled, all the while I smile with a cheery attitude. After all, I am thankful to have work to do.


Anyone paying attention might think my life has been reduced to unending days of "always the same." That may be the case for now, but the reality is this time of sameness is simply one chapter in my life story.


Just as other life chapters have ended, this chapter will also end at some point, and God will turn the page beginning a new chapter with daily challenges of its own.

When I think about my different life chapters, I'm reminded to pray Psalm 31:14-15a over each of them: "But I trust in you, LORD; I say, 'You are my God.' My times are in your hands" (NIV).

It's so important for us to remember that our heavenly Father has ordained our days, even our "always the same" days for our good and His glory. While we might see them as mundane, boring, frustrating or even miserable, the Lord can use the circumstances of these days to transform us into a clear reflection of Him.

In the midst of our circumstances we might long for change, but we can rest in the One who never changes. Hebrews 13:8 tells us "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever" (NIV). This verse is an encouragement to celebrate each day by persevering and staying the course because Jesus "ever lives, and is ever the same...merciful, powerful, and all-sufficient" (Matthew Henry).

The One who knows us best and loves us most is present to provide everything we need to continue on until He changes our circumstances.

Will you join me today, taking a closer look at our "always the same days" and begin to see them as opportunities to trust the One who never changes. The One who holds our time and our lives in His hands.


Dear Lord, sometimes I get overwhelmed by life's circumstances, but I thank You that You are my faithful Rock on which I can rely. I choose to place my confidence in You and ask You to help me persevere so I can receive what you have promised no matter what my days look like. In Jesus' Name, Amen.


Related Resources:
The Uncommon Woman: Making an Ordinary Life Extraordinary by Susie Larson


His Princess, Love Letters from Your King by Sheri Rose Shepherd

Jesus Calling: Seeking Peace in His Presence by Sarah Young

Visit Zoe's Blog
Application Steps: 
Ask God to show you His purpose in your "always the same" days.

Reflections: 
How would my life be different if I celebrated in the midst of this life chapter?


Power Verses:
Titus 3:14, "Our people must learn to devote themselves to doing what is good, in order that they may provide for daily necessitates and not live unproductive lives." (NIV)


James 1:12, "Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him." (NIV, 1984)


© 2011 by Zoe Elmore. All rights reserved.
Proverbs 31 Ministries
616-G Matthews-Mint Hill Road
Matthews, NC 28105
www.Proverbs31.org

[Judy Harder]

March 1, 2011
What's Your Family Inheritance?
Nicole Seitz, She Reads Featured Author


"Though you have made me see troubles, many and bitter, you will restore my life again; from the depths of the earth you will again bring me up."

Psalm 71:20 (NIV)           

Devotion:
Every family has both baggage and facets of beauty. What blessings and curses does your lineage carry with it? What family troubles have you seen, what miracles of restoration?

My own family is dichotomous this way—I am the product of a messy divorce, yet the beneficiary of my grandmother's fervent prayers. I have in my lineage an excommunicated opera singer and a steadfast Sunday school teacher. I have teetotalers and those struggling with addiction. I have family members who don't speak to one another and others who work tirelessly to bridge the riffs.

For many of us, we spend the first part of our lives struggling to deal with our negative "family inheritance," and the rest of our lives desperate to undo the things we enacted in response. Many of us live in a state of regret for things we've done and unforgiveness for those who have done unto us.

This is not "living abundantly" as Jesus has promised His followers. We should not have unfinished business at the end of our lives, for we'll only pass it along to those who follow behind us.

In the Old Testament, we read that families could be "cursed." Generation after generation did evil and lacked favor with God. Yet it only took one person to break a family curse and start living anew with God's blessing. Likewise, a family could also be blessed, but it only took one to come along and lose favor with God and influence others for evil.

In 2 Kings 23:37, we read about a man who "did evil in the eyes of the LORD, just as his father had done." And alternately, about a man who "did what was right in the eyes of the LORD and followed completely the ways of his father, not turning aside to the right or to the left" (2 Kings 2:22).

In the New Testament, however, we see that by receiving Christ, we are born into a new family: God's family. It is clear—we are not captives to our lineage here on earth but have the choice to be agents of change. We do not have to follow in the footsteps of our "fathers," right or wrong—yet we sometimes choose to do so.

Being a genealogy buff, I enjoy learning about the colorful characters in my lineage as they help me to understand where I come from. But where I'm going is up to me. I can choose to dwell on the problems from my past or the consequences of my "fathers'" sins that have come before me. Or I can choose to set my own path straight, and to understand and forgive the sins of my "fathers." I can choose to seek God in all that I do and ask for blessings upon my life, on my children's lives, and all who come after me.

I choose to be a blessing in my family tree. What about you?


Dear Lord, please help me understand the people who came before me, and who I am today as a result. Lord, on this day, I choose to let go of those things which hold me back, and to search for the beauty in my family inheritance. Please use me to be a blessing in my family tree. In Jesus' Name, Amen.


Related Resources:
Do You Know Him?


Nicole Seitz is the author of five novels from Thomas Nelson. Her most recent book, The Inheritance of Beauty, explores the themes of family redemption and enduring love. Visit She Reads for more about Beth!

The Mom I want to be: Rising Above Your Past to Give Your Kids a Great Future by T. Suzanne Eller
Building the Christian Family You Never Had: A Practical Guide for Pioneer Parents by Mary E. DeMuth
When you purchase resources through Proverbs 31 Ministries, your purchase supports the many areas of hope-giving ministry we provide at no cost. Therefore, we are extremely grateful for each and every purchase you make with us. Thank you!


Application Steps: 
Ask God to remove any anger or resentment in your heart, and choose to forgive those who have passed along troubles to you. Choose also to forgive yourself.


Examine your family tree. If there are family members no one talks about, ask questions and break the silence where needed so true healing can begin.

Seek God when discerning where to go from here. Who do you want to be? Take full responsibility for the person you have become and choose to change those parts of you that are simply a result of past hurts.

Be a prayer warrior for your family, especially for those seen as "black sheep." Pray for your children and for all who will come after you. Pray for God to use you in a powerful way to positively affect their lives and lineage.


Reflections: 
Whom in my family do I most take after? Who has had the biggest effect on my life?


What branches in my family tree are unfruitful? Which are full of life?


Is there any "unfinished business" I need to deal with?


Power Verses:
Isaiah 61:4, "They will rebuild the ancient ruins and restore the places long devastated; they will renew the ruined cities that have been devastated for generations." (NIV) 


Genesis 12:2, "I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing." (NIV)


© 2011 by Nicole Seitz. All rights reserved.

Proverbs 31 Ministries
616-G Matthews-Mint Hill Road
Matthews, NC 28105
www.Proverbs31.org

[Judy Harder]

March 2, 2011
While You Are Sleeping
Renee Swope


         "For the LORD your God is living among you. He is a mighty savior. He will take delight in you with gladness. With his love, he will calm all your fears. He will rejoice over you with joyful songs." Zephaniah 3:17 (NLT)         

Devotion:
Startled by the silence, I shot up in bed so I could see the neon red lights that told me it was three in the morning, time to feed the baby. But Andrew hadn't made a sound. Was something wrong? Or was he sleeping through the night?

Wavering between panic and joy, I felt my way down the hall to the nursery and leaned over Andrew's crib. I listened for the sound of his breathing and carefully rested my hand on his tiny chest to feel the gentle rhythm of its rising and falling.

Moonlight slipped through the blinds helping me see that he was perfectly fine. Most sane mothers would have gone back to bed. But not me, I stood there for a while watching my child sleep. The love and joy I felt at that moment was almost overwhelming. How could I love someone so much? My heart longed just to be near this little guy who set my days in motion with his cries and smiles.

Andrew developed a routine of sleeping through the night soon after, yet I would listen for his cries hoping for a good excuse to check on him. While he was sleeping, I'd sneak into his room just because I wanted to be with him. Then I'd tiptoe into my older son Joshua's room, and watch him slumber.

Looking at their faces, I'd imagine the boys God was shaping them into. I'd whisper prayers for them to know Jesus and love Him with all their hearts. I'd ask God to calm their fears, fulfill their dreams, and establish their steps to walk in His ways.

My sons are teenagers now, but I still sometimes go into their rooms to pray over them and watch them while they're sleeping. My heart feels just as full as it did when they were little guys. They aren't doing anything to make me feel proud or happy. In fact, they may have even driven me to my wits end that day, but I find so much delight in them because they are mine.

You know, God feels the exact same way about you and me. He loves to be with us and watch over us, even while we're sleeping. It's not because we are doing anything for Him, but simply because we are His. We might have even disappointed Him that day, but it doesn't change how He feels about us.

I sense God wants you to know today that He delights greatly in you my friend. And with His love, He is there today to quiet your fears, concerns, insecurities and doubts. I have a feeling the joy-filled songs He sings over you are written just for you, describing the beautiful woman He's created you to be, while gently leading your heart to know and rely on His love more and more each day.

What a great reminder for times when nothing's going right; when we feel like the whole world is against us and nobody understands what we're going through. I hope the next time you have one of those days you'll imagine the love of a mother watching her child sleeping and remember that Your Heavenly Father loves and delights in you even more than that!

Dear Lord, thank You for the reminder that You are always with me and that You love to watch over me, every minute of every day - even while I am sleeping. Help me to completely believe this truth about Your love for me. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
Visit Renee's interactive website for a list of Bible promises and prayers to remind you of God's love today. Also, enter to win a Living "Loved" gift pack that includes the CD and book below.

Rest Assured: Overcome Worry by Resting in and Relying on God's Promises a message on CD by Renee Swope

His Princess: Love Letters from Your King by Sheri Rose Shepherd


Application Steps: 
Close your eyes and picture God watching over you at this moment. No matter what you have done or what has been done to you, God's love reaches down to hold you in His arms.

Bow your head and tilt your heart to listen to Him whisper, "You are precious in my sight and I love you." (Is. 43:4, NIV) Now rest in the promise that He loves you, He knows your needs, and He's constantly by your side.

If you could use more daily reminders of how much God loves you, read today's power verses, write them on an index card and carry them with you all day! Also, visit Renee's blog for a list of Bible promises and prayers to remind you of God's love.

Reflections: 
Do you believe God is watching over you, smiling and delighting in the fact that you are HIS child?

Would you like to begin a love relationship with Jesus today, accepting your secure position as God's child? Click here to find out how you can know Him.

Power Verses:
Psalm 34:15, "The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their cry." (NIV)

Psalm 139:1-3, "O LORD, you have searched me and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways." (NIV)

Psalm 33:18, "But the eyes of the Lord are on those who fear Him, on those whose hope is in His unfailing love." (NIV)   


© 2011 Renee Swope. All rights reserved.
Proverbs 31 Ministries
616-G, Matthews-Mint Hill Road
Matthews, NC 28105
www.proverbs31.org

[Judy Harder]

March 3, 2011
A Space for Grace
Lysa TerKeurst



"Sow for yourselves righteousness, reap the fruit of unfailing love, and break up your unplowed ground..." Hosea 10:12 (NIV)



Devotion:
Life is good. Life is hard. Life is full of amazing moments. Life is dotted with things that bump into my happy. Up and down and up and down... do you ever feel this way?

I can wake up cheerful and determined to keep a good attitude today and then someone makes a hurtful comment. Someone makes a mess without bothering to stop and clean it up. An unexpected bill makes my pulse race. I get an ugly email that starts off, "Shame on you." Lovely.

These things crash down on me like a wave I didn't see coming. I go under. My heart gets snagged. My emotions well up. My attitude heads south.

I suspect you understand.

Yesterday, after the "shame on you" email, I lifted up a little prayer to Jesus. It was honest. It was simple:

"What is the deal Jesus? Why do I always seem to have little pieces of brokenness in my life every day? It's so frustrating. I need your perspective on the brokenness or I need a break from it."

There was no answer.

No instant verse.

Nothing.

Until this morning.

With a tired heart I sat at my kitchen table and opened up my tattered and worn Bible. I read, "Sow for yourselves righteousness, reap the fruit of unfailing love, and break up your unplowed ground; for it is time to seek the Lord..." Hosea 10:12 (NIV).

Sow for yourselves righteousness...
In other words, I must sow righteousness into my life - right choices that honor God. I have to remember I always have a choice in every situation. I can choose to honor Jesus in the midst of it all. Even when I am dishonored, I can choose to honor Him.

Reap the fruit of unfailing love...
There will be fruit in the midst of every choice that honors God. It will be the fruit of being able to remember God's unfailing love. Romans chapter 8 teaches me nothing shall separate me from the love of God. Yet, that is Satan's great tactic to get me entangled in little things, making me forget or doubt God's unfailing love.

I must resist the distracting entanglements by honoring God in this choice I am faced with right now.

Break up your unplowed ground...
The blessing in these broken circumstances can be found in the way it tills the ground of my heart. Breaking up the unplowed soil of my heart will make it ready for new life, new growth, new maturity.

For it is time to seek the Lord...
It's time for me to seek God like never before. And part of seeking Him is allowing for grace space in my life. When the circumstances of life leak me dry, I can see this emptiness as an opportunity. Instead of reacting out of emptiness, I can choose to see that this emptiness is the perfect spot for grace to grow deeper and more widespread in my life.

As I give grace to those who don't deserve it, the mercy jars of heaven will lavish it back on me. And, oh how I desperately need a lavish dose of heaven's grace.

"... for it is time to seek the Lord, until he comes and showers righteousness on you," Hosea 10:12.

The showers...
Then the growth comes. As I make right choices that honor Him, I start to look at life and people, and annoying circumstances differently. I change. I become more complete. I sense a new closeness with God. I don't go under quite as easily when the waves of life rush at me and over me.

And I even dare to whisper thank you when the need for grace spaces comes again and again.

Dear Lord, show me how to seek You more and more in the midst of everyday life. Please help me to see my emptiness as an opportunity. As space for grace in my life. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
If you need a grace space in your weight struggles, Lysa would love to be a friend walking the journey with you in her book, "Made to Crave." Order your copy by clicking here.

Lysa will be speaking in over 40 cities this year and would love to meet you To find a city near you, click here.

Come see the downloadable Freebies on Lysa's website. You'll find lots of encouraging articles to print and share with a friend!
When you purchase resources through Proverbs 31 Ministries, you touch eternity because your purchase supports the many areas of hope-giving ministry we provide at no cost. We wish we could, but we simply can't compete with prices offered by huge online warehouses. Therefore, we are extremely grateful for each and every purchase you make with us. Thank you!

Application Steps:
Let's grab hold of the truths that will set us free. Open your Bible to look for truth. Start with Romans 8 and ask God to reveal His love to you.

Reflections:
We grow closer to God as we learn to look and act more like Him. The Bible calls this participating in His divine nature. Not only do our actions need to reflect the self-control the Holy Spirit affords us, but our sense of identity needs to reflect His presence each day.


What would it look like for me to reflect Christ's nature today?

Power Verses:
Jeremiah 29:13, "You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart." (NIV)

Psalm 25:4, "Show me your ways, O Lord, teach me your paths." (NIV)

© 2011 by Lysa TerKeurst. All rights reserved.


Proverbs 31 Ministries
616-G Matthews-Mint Hill Road
Matthews, NC 28105
www.Proverbs31.org

[Judy Harder]

March 4, 2011
Where Would Jesus Sit?
Glynnis Whitwer

"When the teachers of the law who were Pharisees saw him eating
with the sinners and tax collectors, they asked his disciples:
'Why does he eat with tax collectors and sinners?'" Mark 2:16 (NIV 2010)         

Devotion:
At a recent funeral reception, two choices faced me. Both concerned where to sit. Not that big of a deal, really. But it was. That day, I had to choose between where I felt most comfortable sitting, and where Jesus wanted me to sit. They weren't the same.

Normally when in this situation, I would look for a friend, or at least a friendly face. That day, except for a few family members who were surrounded by people, strangers faced me in every corner. My choice was between strangers who looked like me, and those who didn't.

It's not that they really looked like me, they just seemed like me on the surface - traditionally dressed, about my age, and talking about things I might talk about. Then there was the group outside on the back patio. I knew who they were, and they weren't like me. Their lifestyle choices were far from mine. Were they sitting outside because they didn't "fit" with the inside group? No one would have intentionally snubbed them, but they sat apart nonetheless.

Plate in hand, I stood beside the buffet table weighing my options. And I asked myself, "Where would Jesus sit?" Would He choose to sit inside with those like Him? Or would He be outside with those whose choices revealed a heart far from God? The answer was obvious; I headed for the back door. 

"May I sit with you?" I asked. Smiles and nods greeted me. Immediately someone jumped to grab a chair, another introduced himself, and I was drawn into the lively conversation. The next hour flew by as we chatted and laughed about vacations, movies and community happenings. 

They could have judged me for being obviously different from them, but they didn't. For that moment in time, they welcomed me into their group. As we parted ways, my mind imagined Jesus intentionally choosing to hang out with those shunned by the religious types. They welcomed His presence. In spending time with those far from God, He created quite a stir. 

I can imagine a disciple or two trying to warn Jesus about the dangers of hanging out with "sinners." Perhaps they thought Him naive, or simply unwise. "What will people think?" some might have said. "Will others trust what we have to say after they see us having dinner with them?"

But Jesus didn't worry about what others thought. He didn't worry about His reputation being sullied by His choice of friends. Instead, He went out of His way to show acceptance and love to those who needed Him.

That's how I want to be. My choice of where to sit should expand beyond an hour at a reception - it should be a lifestyle of reaching out to those who need to know Jesus. Whether at church, the cafeteria at work, the bleachers on Saturday morning, or a child's birthday party, there will be people far from God.

Each time I have a choice, the questions will be the same: Will I gravitate towards the known? Or where Jesus might go?

We are called to be set apart in many ways; we don't live like the world lives. But Jesus also said we are to be a light. In my experience, lighting a candle in a well-lit room doesn't make much of a difference. A candle in the dark, however, changes the scene dramatically.

So the next time we have a choice of where to sit, let's think about Jesus and go where He would choose.

Dear Lord, thank You for loving this broken and hurting world. You've asked me to do the same. Forgive me for those times I've chosen the safe route. I know those times have been based in fear, and concern for myself. Help me to be a woman who trusts You enough with her reputation that she's willing to sit where Jesus would sit. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
P31 Woman magazine

Visit Glynnis' blog

Welcome to Community: Experiencing Life the Way God Intended by Brian T. Anderson & Glynnis Whitwer

Girlfriends Road Trip (CD) by Renee Swope A message filled with encouragement and practical ideas for building Christ-like friendships.

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

Application Steps: 
In the coming weeks, choose to attend an event where there will be people unlike yourself. At that event, make a conscious decision to interact with someone different from you.

Reflections: 
Have I found myself in increasingly homogeneous groups? If so, what holds me back from spending time with people unlike myself?

To what extend should Christians interact with non-Christians?

Power Verses:
Mark 2:17, "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.'" (NIV 2010)

1 Peter 2:12, "Be careful to live properly among your unbelieving neighbors. Then even if they accuse you of doing wrong, they will see your honorable behavior, and they will give honor to God when he judges the world." (NLT)

© 2011 by Glynnis Whitwer. All rights reserved.

Proverbs 31 Ministries
616-G Matthews-Mint Hill Road
Matthews, NC 28105
www.Proverbs31.org

[Judy Harder]

March 7, 2011
The Verse that Made Me Cringe
Lysa TerKeurst

"Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God?  You are not your own; you were bought at a price.  Therefore honor God with your body." 1 Corinthians 6:19 (NIV)           

Devotion:
For years, I cringed every time I read a verse about honoring God with my body and my body being the temple of the Holy Spirit. 

I wanted to please God.  But did it have to be with my body?  I had set out with great enthusiasm to get healthy so many times but always slipped back into complacency.  I didn't want to try and just be reminded of my failures again.

Then I found the most interesting story in the Old Testament about how serious God is about people taking care of the temple entrusted to them.  It stepped on my toes and messed with my heart in the best kind of way.

Before the Holy Spirit was given to us and our bodies became the temple, there used to be physical locations for the Spirit of God to dwell.  In Haggai chapter 1 God's people had returned from being in exile in Babylon.  One of the first things they set about doing was to rebuild the temple. 

They started with great enthusiasm and wonderful intentions but slowly slipped back into complacency and eventually stopped their work on the temple all together.  Other things seemed more urgent, higher priorities, and all together more appealing to work on. Haggai 1:2-8 says:

"This is what the LORD Almighty says: "These people say, 'The time has not yet come for the LORD's house to be built.' "

Then the word of the LORD came through the prophet Haggai: "Is it a time for you yourselves to be living in your paneled houses, while this house remains a ruin?"

Now this is what the LORD Almighty says: "Give careful thought to your ways. You have planted much, but have harvested little. You eat, but never have enough. You drink, but never have your fill. You put on clothes, but are not warm. You earn wages, only to put them in a purse with holes in it."

This is what the LORD Almighty says: "Give careful thought to your ways. Go up into the mountains and bring down timber and build the house, so that I may take pleasure in it and be honored," says the LORD."

Oh this reminds me just how divided my heart can be when it comes to taking care of my body - God's temple.  Like these Jewish people, I could easily say, "I'm not in a season where it's feasible to take care of my body.  I just can't find the time between the kids, my work responsibilities, running a home, paying the bills, and all the day to day activities."

However, if I was really honest, I made time for what I wanted to make time for.  Just the same, the Jews who returned from Babylon obviously had time to do things they really wanted to do as well.  They found the time and energy to put paneling up in their own homes while ignoring the home of the Lord.

So, where's the hope? 

I found it in the challenge the Lord issues in verse 7: "Give careful thought to our ways" and make time to "build the house" so that he may be honored.  Verse 8 says, "Go up into the mountains."  In other words, escape the ruts of my same old patterns by heading onward and upward.  Give careful thought to each decision I make from here.

I realized each decision mattered. 

So, every day I started waking up and lifting up my willingness to head in a new direction to the Lord.  As I took positive steps, the Lord strengthened my heart day by day.  One good decision turned into two, turned into three, and eventually turned into victory.  Like my Pastor says, "You must do what only you can do.  Then God will do what only He can do." 

Slowly, I rebuilt my temple and learned to honor God with my body.  Me. The girl who used to cringe at the thought of this verse.  Sweet sister, if I can do it, so can you.

Dear Lord, I want to honor You in every way.  I want to honor You with my mind - help me release the excuses.  I want to honor You with my heart - help me make taking care of my body more of a priority.  And I want to honor You with my body - help me look at my body as Your temple and make caring for it a priority.  In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
Click here to listen to a short video of Lysa sharing some encouragement you don't want to miss.

If this devotion resonated with you, don't miss Lysa's new book: Made to Crave.

Also, you'll want to consider doing the 6 week Bible study using this DVD set:  Made to Crave DVD by Lysa TerKeurst and the accompanying workbook: Made to Crave Participant's Guide.

Application Steps:
A great step to encourage you on this journey would be to sign up for the FREE 21 Day Challenge Lysa has written to help you find the spiritual encouragement to make healthier choices. For more information click here.

Reflections: 
How did these verses challenge you? 

What is one healthy choice you can make today? 

Power Verses:
Romans 14:17, "For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit." (NIV)

Psalm 18:1, "I love you, O Lord, my strength." (NIV)

© 2011 by Lysa TerKeurst. All rights reserved.

Proverbs 31 Ministries
616-G Matthews-Mint Hill Road
Matthews, NC 28105
www.Proverbs31.org

[Judy Harder]

March 8, 2011
Desperate Dependence
T. Suzanne Eller

"Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you."
1 Peter 5:7 (NIV)         

Devotion:
My close friend Ronnie and his brother witnessed a car accident and jumped out to help. Ronnie leaped over a downed electrical line to grab the car door, and thousands of volts of electricity entered his side and exited through both of his feet, pinning him to the ground as he was electrocuted over and over. His brother was able to pull him away with a broken limb. Soon, Life Flight whisked him away to a burn center.

When I received word that they were amputating both of his legs, I remember thinking, "He'll never make it." It's not that I thought he would die, but that the loss might crush him. He was an athlete. He was fiercely independent. When we were in college, he hurt his leg in a motorcycle accident and being dependent on others during his recovery frustrated him. 

I arrived at the hospital and stood by his side. I wept at the sight of my unconscious friend. Over the next several months Ronnie went through multiple surgeries.

Over time we lost touch until one day he showed up at my church. He and his family, now complete with a son and a daughter, had moved nearby.

In many ways Ronnie was changed. He was a little gray around the temples. He carried a few extra pounds. But it was what was the same that was so beautiful. His sense of humor was intact. His faith was deeper than it had ever been.

He confessed there were dark days, especially in the beginning when he realized how dependent he had to be on his wife and a medical team. But in that time he had learned how dependent he could be on God, and how our Heavenly Father can somehow take tragedies and redeem them.

Ronnie is a teacher at a school for the blind, and it is his story that connects them in the beginning, though it is his sheer love for teaching that takes the student/teacher relationship deeper. He doesn't just walk on two prosthetic legs. He farms. He rides a tractor. He goes on mission trips. He walks with others who have recently lost their legs, helping them to stand again.

Ronnie is the first to admit that despite his independence in life, spiritually he is more dependent on God than ever, and it's a gift.

Desperate dependence is where you surrender, not to the circumstances or to loss, but to God. Author Max Davis says, "Desperate dependence is the place where we can stop living by our own power." It's where we discover God's strength in and through us.

That's what happened with my friend Ronnie. And it's what can happen with you and me.

Dear Lord, I'm in a hard place. I am used to being self-sufficient. Today I reach for You. I ask that You help me to place my trust in You completely, Amen.

Related Resources:

Visit Suzie's blog for an interview with her friend Ronnie.

Join Suzie's Live Free Facebook group for community, encouragement and a weekly video Bible study.

The Woman I Am Becoming by T. Suzanne Eller

When Life and Beliefs Collide: How Knowing God Makes a Difference by Carolyn

Custis James

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

Application Steps: 
In Psalm 95:6-7, David prayed: "Come, let us bow down in worship, let us kneel before the LORD our Maker; for he is our God and we are the people of his pasture, the flock under his care" (NIV).

David was a man who knew desperation. Make Psalm 95:6-7 your own prayer today, inserting your name in the scripture.

Reflections: 
Desperate dependence is the place where scripture becomes even more weighty with the truth of these words, "All things work together for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28, NIV)."

All things.

Power Verses:
Mark 6:47-50,"When evening came, the boat was in the middle of the lake, and he was alone on land. He saw the disciples straining at the oars, because the wind was against them. Shortly before dawn he went out to them, walking on the lake. He was about to pass by them, but when they saw him walking on the lake, they thought he was a ghost. They cried out, because they all saw him and were terrified.  Immediately he spoke to them and said, 'Take courage! It is I. Don't be afraid.'" (NIV)

© 2011 by T. Suzanne Eller. All rights reserved.

Proverbs 31 Ministries
616-G Matthews-Mint Hill Road
Matthews, NC 28105
www.Proverbs31.org

[Judy Harder]

March 9, 2011
The Power of Encouragement
Renee Swope


"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go."
Joshua 1:9 (NIV)

Devotion:
I do not like open heights. I can't stand narrow balconies. And when driving across a bridge, you'll find me hugging the rail along the inside lane.

A few years ago, some friends tried to help me conquer my fear of heights by inviting our family to an indoor rock-climbing center. My heart stopped as we entered the doors and I scanned the highest peak at 25 feet. The instructors assured me that a web of ropes and harnesses would hold me tight.  Before I could say "no thank you," I was strapped in and signing an injury waiver.

Towards the end of the day our friends, John and Laura, asked their eight-year-old son Steven if he wanted to try to climb to the highest peak. Steven seemed a little hesitant, but when his dad offered game tokens and ice cream if he reached it, Steven took the challenge.

Although Steven wasn't crazy about heights, he loved a dare. The promise of reward, mixed with the challenge and faith of his father, evoked courage in him.

I watched with admiration as Steven started the climb with confidence. He made it to 10 feet, then 15, then 20. But as he inched past the next face of the wall, he looked down. Realizing how high he was and how far he still had to go, he insisted he couldn't do it.

By this time, John was holding their very tired and fussy 3-year-old and Laura was feeding their hungry baby girl. I don't know where my brave husband was, but I quickly realized I was the only one standing there who could do something.

Suddenly courage and strength surged through my body and I called out, "Don't give up buddy. You can do it. I'll help you!"

In record time, I reached the 20-foot marker, crossed over the peak and up beside Steven to encourage him, reminding him of how far he'd come. I told him he could do it with God's strength and that it would be worth it if he'd persevere. With my words and my confidence in him, I helped Steven turn his thoughts towards a higher goal, an inner peak, a reward much greater than ice cream and game tokens – the reward of getting to a place he had stopped believing he could reach.

I surprised myself. I had silenced the voices of my own fears by focusing on helping someone else overcome theirs. In that moment, I realized the same promises I was claiming for Steven were true for me, too. I could do it with God's strength, and I did!

Each day we have the same opportunity. Like God did with Joshua in today's key verse, and like He does with us, we can come alongside each other in some of life's hardest challenges and highest peaks and say, "Don't give up, you can do it. I'll be with you and I will help you."

Isn't it amazing that when we take our eyes off our fears, our doubts, and our struggles and focus on someone else's needs, we somehow forget our own? In believing the power of God's promises for others, our confidence in His promises for us seems to grow as well. And that my friend is the power of encouragement!

Lord, thank You for the power of Your words that give me courage to become who You've created me to be – to go to places You're calling me to go and climb spiritual heights that are out of my reach without Your help. Give me Your encouragement and help me encourage someone else today. In Jesus Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
The Power of a Purpose Driven Mom a message on CD by Renee Swope, about the importance of our words and God's Word to help shape our kids' character.

Rest Assured: How to Stop Worrying and Start Resting in God's Promisesmessage on CD by Renee Swope

Visit Renee's Blog for "Encouraging Words Wednesday" to join in giving and receiving encouragement from women around the world. And enter to win an "Encouraging Words" gift pack.

Get a dose of daily encouragement from Renee via Facebook.

Application Steps:
Ask God to encourage your heart today with a promise from His Word that offers hope and power in the midst of your circumstances.

Be part of Encouraging Words Wednesday – a place where we commit once each month to encourage someone. Whether we write a note, leave a message, send an email or simply say something encouraging.

Encourage someone with God's promises and a prayer. It could be the very thing they need today to overcome discouragement or defeat. Click here [S1] for some ideas.

Reflections: 
How has someone's encouraging words impacted my life in the past? How has God's words of encouragement helped me do things I never thought I could?

Power Verses:
Psalm 69:32, "The humble will see their God at work and be glad.  Let all who seek God's help be encouraged." (NLT)

Deuteronomy 3:28, "But commission Joshua, and encourage and strengthen him, for he will lead this people across and will cause them to inherit the land that you will see." (NIV)

Psalm 10:17, "You hear, O LORD, the desire of the afflicted; you encourage them, and you listen to their cry, (NIV)

© 2011 by Renee Swope. All rights reserved.

Proverbs 31 Ministries
616-G, Matthews-Mint Hill Road
Matthews, NC 28105
www.Proverbs31.org