Encouragement for Today

[Judy Harder]

March 10, 2011

I Picked Up a Runaway

Holly Good, Assistant to Lysa TerKeurst

"My people have been lost sheep; their shepherds have led them astray and caused them to roam on the mountains. They wandered over mountain and hill and forgot their own resting place." Jeremiah 50:6 (NIV)           

Devotion:
I picked up a young runaway one afternoon.

She was dirty, wore baggy sweat pants and a yellow sweatshirt, and had muddy feet. I was stopped at an intersection when she sauntered across the street right in front of my car.

I continued on when the light turned green.

But I could not get those bare feet out of my mind. Those muddy, bare feet.

Why was this young girl walking across a busy intersection with no shoes on in the middle of a school day? About a mile down the road I felt the Lord encouraging me to turn around and go find that girl with the bare feet.

It was a gentle, but direct nudge I could not refuse.

I found her several minutes later outside a convenience store with a cup of water in her hand. I pulled up, rolled down my window and said, "Hey, what's going on with you?"

With little emotion she replied, "Oh nothing."

"Well...what are you doing? Can I take you home?" I offered.

"You can take me to my friend's house," she answered.

"I'd rather take you home," I said. "Where do you live?"

"Well, I'm running away from home, so you can't take me there," she said.

"Oh. Well, I would like to. Where do you live?" I asked again.

She eventually complied and trustingly got in my car. (Oh how my heart was pounding!)

My new friend Sarah was only in 8th grade, skipping school and leaving home because she got into an argument about friends with her parents. She had been gone for two days. The previous night she had slept outside.

I prayed for just the right words to come from my mouth with my fragile but captive audience of one, on the 20-minute ride to her house.

As I dropped Sarah off at her home, I prayed that the Lord would take over from there. I drove off and felt a peace in what He had led me to do that day.

It just so happened that a minor traffic accident had occurred around the corner as I was leaving. So I pulled over and told one of the officers about Sarah, hoping they could also help her in some way.

Find her. Stop her. Detain her. Guide her. Protect her. Save her.

As I prayed for my runaway friend in the days that followed, I realized that she is not much different from you and me. From a place we have journeyed or perhaps a place we are in right now.

Most of us have found ourselves running away at some point in our lives. Running from someone or something. Looking to escape.

Running, yet desperately hoping to be found.

She is lonely. She is angry. She feels betrayed. She feels misunderstood. She feels unloved. She is searching. She is confused. She is bitter. She wants to rest.

Oh my friend, I pray that you will have eyes to see, ears to hear and a place to finally find rest. For you are loved.

You are loved indeed.

Seek Him right now.
         

Dear Lord, thank You for loving me today and every day. I am grateful that You are bigger than all of my problems. Give me the courage and the wisdom to seek You today, regardless of my circumstances. I want to be found by You Lord. And give me a heart to be able to see and help others near me in need. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
Click here to read the follow up letter Holly received from Sarah's mother.

Becoming More Than a Good Bible Study Girl by Lysa TerKeurst

Do You Know Him?

Application Steps: 
Please read Luke 15:11-32. Focus on the father's actions and reactions and journal your thoughts. What does this story teach you about God's love for you?

Pray that you will have eyes to see that God's love is constant, patient and welcoming.

Reflections: 
Am I running from something today? Spiritually, physically or emotionally?

How can I seek Him more today?

Read Psalm 71:20-21. Record these verses on a 3x5 card. Do you know someone you could give these verses to as an encouragement?

Power Verses:
Jeremiah 29:14, "'I will be found by you,' declares the Lord, 'and will bring you back from captivity...'" (NIV) 

Luke 15:32, "But we had to celebrate and be glad, because this brother of yours was dead and is alive again; he was lost and his found." (NIV)

Jeremiah 33:3, "Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know." (NIV)

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

 

[Judy Harder]

March 11, 2011

Trust In Numbers

Marybeth Whalen

"Some trust in chariots and some in horses but we trust in the name of the LORD our God."Psalm 20:7 (NIV) 

Devotion:
Recently my husband and I were discussing our ongoing efforts to build up our emergency fund. A series of setbacks that included car repairs, replacing an HVAC system and my husband's six month unemployment had left little in our emergency savings. It seemed every time we got a little bit of money in, it went right back out. I voiced my frustration to my husband. "If we could just get a certain amount in there," I said, "We wouldn't have to worry anymore."

The idea of not worrying appealed to me. I wanted something to stay the same. I wanted to be confident and stable. This all sounded like a good idea.

But that's not what was happening. So what was God trying to teach me?

A few days later I was reading the story of Gideon, the man God called a mighty warrior even as he was hiding out, scared of his enemies. In Judges 7 God finally convinces Gideon to assemble an army of Israelites to face their enemy. I am sure Gideon was pleased and surprised when 32,000 men responded to his battle cry. I imagine the strength of their numbers was a comfort to this less than confident soldier.

And then God told him to cut the army down in size. Then cut it again. God cut the army's numbers from 32,000 down to just 300. Contrast that with Judges 7:12, where the enemy troops are described as "thick as locusts." I can only imagine what Gideon was feeling. He had to think that more was better, that surely having a large army to count on was a good idea.

As I read this passage I thought of another time a soldier wanted to know the numbers he was dealing with. First Chronicles 21:1 tells us that King David was enticed by Satan to count his men. He knew that if he could get David's focus on the numbers instead of on God, he'd gain access to David's thoughts and trust.

These two biblical examples were a good wakeup call. God was trying to teach me to stop trusting in numbers – specifically in bank account numbers. He was gently reminding me that—as good as an emergency fund is—I can really only trust in Him. I didn't need to worry about my balance or my battlefield. I only had to believe He would supply all I need.

God calls us mighty, even as we are hiding out. God calls us powerful, even as our forces dwindle. God calls us wealthy, even as we are fretting about finances. God majors in the impossible. He can overpower terrible odds because He's free to shine His light on our situation. Are your numbers looking grim? Let your lack invite His might.

Don't trust in numbers that change like the tides. Trust in the unchanging God. Watch Him work against the odds. Just ask Gideon, who won a decisive victory with his 300 men. You can be victorious too, no matter what the numbers say.                                                                                                                                                                     

Dear Lord, my numbers don't look good right now. The statistics are stacked against me. The account balance doesn't make sense. I'm in the red. I feel like I'm facing impossible odds. And yet, today I feel a spark of hope. Please fan it into a flame of complete trust—not in numbers, but in You. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

Visit Marybeth's blog

Living Financially Free: Hard Earned Wisdom for Saving Your Money and Your Marriageby Marybeth and Curt Whalen

From Financially Frantic to Financially Free (CD)by Marybeth Whalen

She Reads

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: 
When you start to focus on the numbers recognize that as a trigger that it's time to stop and pray, giving your situation to God. Do this as many times as it takes.

Reflections: 
Have I been trusting in numbers when God's trying to get me to trust in Him? What numbers are comforting to me?

Power Verses:
2 Chronicles 21:8, "Then David said to God, 'I have sinned greatly by doing this. Now, I beg you, take away the guilt of your servant. I have done a very foolish thing.'" (NIV)

Judges 7:2, The LORD said to Gideon, "You have too many men. I cannot deliver Midian into their hands, or Israel would boast against me, 'My own strength has saved me.'" (NIV)

Deuteronomy 20:1, "When you go to war against your enemies and see horses and chariots and an army greater than yours, do not be afraid of them, because the LORD your God, who brought you up out of Egypt, will be with you." (NIV)

© 2011 by Marybeth Whalen. All rights reserved.

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

[Judy Harder]

March 14, 2011

What's the Big Deal?

Melanie Chitwood

"Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and shall become united and cleave to his wife, and they shall become one flesh." Genesis 2:24 (AMP)       

Devotion:
When my husband and I were arranging our first home, Scott wanted a TV in our bedroom. According to my set of rules, however, TVs did not belong in bedrooms. Although he didn't understand why I made a big deal about this situation, Scott graciously went along with my preference.     

As I considered my "rule" about TVs, I realized it stemmed from the way things were when I grew up. We were a family of readers who rarely watched TV, so I expected this to be the case in my marriage. When my sports-loving, sports-watching husband wanted a TV in our bedroom, I just didn't understand why it was important to him.

As every married couple will discover, we each enter marriage with our own customs and habits stemming from our family of origin. Chances are these are going to result in some differences. As you're reading this, you might think of some of those differences right now.

One couple I know had a conflict over decorating. He wanted to adorn the living room walls with his prized hunting trophies and sports memorabilia, just like his family did while growing up. His wife was sure a pretty painting or two would add a touch of warmth and elegance.

A few other possible examples come to mind: your family ate in front of the TV; but your husband's family always ate at the kitchen table. Your family watched football all day on Thanksgiving Day; his family played games. Your family was sentimental and kept every bit of memorabilia; his family was relentless about not letting clutter accumulate. His family didn't make a big deal about Christmas gifts; your family gave all thirty-five members of the extended family at least one present.

These are just little things. But the little things can add up and become divisive wedges, threatening the oneness God wants a married couple to enjoy. Today's key verse offers a solution to this potential area of separation. Genesis 2:24 tells us that a married couple will "leave his father and his mother."

While the more obvious understanding of this verse refers to a physical leaving, it also refers to a shift in habits or customs. 

Once married, our hearts need to shift from our family of origin to our new family. The family we've created with our husbands becomes our central relationship. One way to honor this shift in relationships is to embrace new customs, habits and traditions.

What does this look like in everyday life? For me, it meant being open to a TV in our bedroom, along with many other bigger changes, too. The young couple with the decorating conflict found a compromise where their bedroom displays his trophies but the living room is her decorating domain.

God will show you what changes to make and how to do so. At times this will mean adopting our extended family's customs, and other times it will mean creating completely new traditions to treasure as our own.

Making changes in the way we do things, whether putting a TV in the bedroom or changing how we decorate, is a key way to strengthen our marriage. As we negotiate this shift in traditions, customs and habits, let's pray we'll experience unity, not division.

Dear Lord, thank You for my husband and our marriage. Reveal to me anything I need to leave behind, so I can be united to my husband. Help us to find compromises and new traditions to cement us together as a family. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

Visit Melanie's blog,where she helps couples develop "Magnetic Marriages"

This devotion is adapted fromWhat a Husband Needs from His Wifeby Melanie Chitwood. Pair it with What a Wife Needs from Her Husbandby Melanie for a dynamic combo!

Generation Next Marriage: The Couple's Guide to Keeping it Together by Tricia Goyer
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: 
Take inventory of the "smaller" issues of your married life together. Consider things like family time, date nights, meal time, decorating, time with extended family members and holiday traditions. Take note of where you and your husband need to find a compromise or where you need to create your own customs.

Find a godly balance between your family of origin and your new family. Discuss with your husband ways you can honor your families of origin, while simultaneously establishing your marriage as your central relationship.

Reflections: 
Is there anything my husband has wanted, even something small like putting a TV in our bedroom, which I've resisted because it's not in line with the way I grew up?

The issue of leaving and cleaving in marriage is really an issue of the heart. Do I allow the Holy Spirit to examine my heart to reveal areas where I need to let go of old ways?

Power Verses:
Philippians 2:2, "Make my joy complete by being of the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose." (NAS)

1 Peter 3:8,"Finally, all [of you] should be of one and the same mind (united in spirit), sympathizing [with one another], loving [each other] as brethren [of one household], compassionate and courteous (tenderhearted and humble)." (AMP)

© 2011 by Melanie Chitwood. All rights reserved.

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

[Judy Harder]

March 15, 2011

Secret Decoder Ring

Rachel Olsen

"You have been permitted to understand the secrets of the Kingdom of Heaven, but others have not." Matthew 13:11 (NLT)       

Devotion:
Did you catch that gem of a revelation in today's key verse? Jesus said there are secrets in the Kingdom of God.

I don't know about you but I have a hard time resisting secrets - especially God-sized secrets. So when I discovered this verse, I immediately wanted to know more. Don't you?

What secrets might God share with me? What secrets will He reveal to you?

To be perfectly honest, for years much of the Bible seemed like a giant secret I wasn't privy to.  I just didn't get parts of it—many parts of it. Was I one of those "others" who hadn't been permitted to understand? I wondered. I suspected maybe if I went to seminary or became a nun, I could get a secret decoder ring and suddenly my Bible would make sense to me.

I just wasn't sure this average, everyday gal could ever figure it out all by herself. Turns out, I was partially right.

Today's verse starts a passage every woman needs to hear:

"You have been permitted to understand the secrets of the Kingdom of Heaven, but others have not. To those who are open to my teaching, more understanding will be given, and they will have an abundance of knowledge. But to those who are not listening, even what they have will be taken away from them. That is why I tell these stories, because people see what I do, but they don't really see. They hear what I say, but they don't really hear, and they don't understand." (Matthew 13:11-13, NLT)

According to Jesus, God grants us the ability to recognize Kingdom truths. Jesus promises if we are truly open to His teachings, He will help us understand spiritual realities. Therefore, it's not up to you or me to figure out the mysteries of God or the deep truths of the Bible with our own perception. No need to spend your days in seclusion, or your money on an advanced degree. Jesus is our secret decoder ring!

And we can wear it proudly because no ring shines brighter than He does! Peter, James, and John, three of Jesus' disciples, witnessed His astounding brilliance—His sparkling glory—when He took them to a secluded spot on a mountain top. "As the men watched, Jesus' appearance changed, and his clothing became dazzling white, far whiter than any earthly process could ever make it" (Mark 9:2-3, NLT). Suddenly a cloud came over them and "a voice from the cloud said, 'This is my beloved Son. Listen to Him'" (Mark 9:7, NLT).

God never hides truth from sincere seekers. In fact, He came to earth in the person of Jesus to ensure that we'd learn His secrets and understand His ways. Our task is to open ourselves—ears, eyes, and heart—and listen intently to Him. To concentrate and apply ourselves to the process of prayerfully reading the Bible.

So, when I don't understand something I read in scripture, I look to Jesus. I ask Jesus to help me understand. I consider the example He set while here on earth - found in the gospels - and then I read the perplexing chapter or verses again in light of his example and character.  I ask His Holy Spirit to guide me into all spiritual truth. And I've been amazed by what I've found.

I won't say that I now understand everything in my Bible cover-to-cover, but I have discovered some truly empowering secrets to life in God's Kingdom.  And I trust more revelation is to come, simply because Jesus said it would. He promised an abundance of knowledge to those who listen to Him.

It's easy to miss the full impact of the first dozen words of today's key verse and zero in on the last four: "You have been permitted to understand the secrets of the Kingdom of Heaven, but others have not." Don't make that mistake.  Don't assume you'll never "get it."  If you are a follower of Christ, listening to Him with your heart, He will reveal to you victorious secrets for life in His Kingdom. Open your eyes to Him. Open your ears to Him. Open your heart to Him, and dig into His Word.  Pray for revelation and understanding.

And be ready to record the amazing things He reveals as you do.                   

Dear Lord, I willingly and eagerly open my eyes, ears and heart to You today. Speak to me through Your Word, I pray. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

It's No Secret: Revealing Divine Truths Every Woman Needs to Knowby Rachel Olsen

You don't need a decoder ring to uncover God's truths in your everyday life. Join Melissa Taylor along with hundreds of women for an online study of Rachel's book It's No Secret beginning March 20th.  For a signed copy of the book at a 10% discount, call 877-731-4663 toll-free and mention you want to join the online study.

Visit Rachel's blog

Application Steps: 
Pray and listen with expectation as you read the Bible today.

Follow this link to learn about the upcoming online study of Rachel's book It's No Secret: Revealing Divine Truths Every Woman Needs to Know. Each chapter covers a different "secret," followed by a study section where you can dig into God's Word for yourself and hear His voice.

Reflections: 
Do I avoid reading the Bible because I've struggled to understand it?

What does Jesus say in Mark 13:11-13? Read it out loud.

Power Verses:
Colossians 2:2-3, "I want them to be strengthened and joined together with love so that they may be rich in their understanding. This leads to their knowing fully God's secret, that is, Christ himself. In him all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge are safely kept." (NCV)

© 2011 by Rachel Olsen. All rights reserved.

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

[Judy Harder]

March 16, 2011

Given

Marybeth Whalen



"The seventh time around, when the priests sounded the trumpet blast, Joshua commanded the army, 'Shout! For the LORD has given you the city!'"
Joshua 6:16 (NIV)       

Devotion:
Whenever I share my marriage story, I share the moment that I knew that God was calling me to hang in there when I wanted to give up. I was reading the story of the battle of Jericho in Joshua 6 and today's verse jumped out at me. More importantly, one particular word jumped out at me: given.

Past tense. It was already done even if from where the Israelites were standing it didn't look done.

God was telling them, "Hey I've done this thing. You've just got to be willing to do something that sounds a little crazy to take hold of it. March around the city for seven days." I know the people who were watching from the high walls of Jericho thought they looked crazy marching around the city over and over in circles.

Anyone who's ever heard the old song about it knows that they did what He asked and received a great victory in return. Joshua fought the battle of Jericho and the walls came tumbling down.

But that's not the only time that one of God's people counted on something being given to them before it looked like it had been accomplished. In Judges 7 Gideon has snuck into the enemy camp and heard the soldiers there talking about a dream one of them had about their impending defeat.

Even though the odds looked stacked against them for a victorious battle, God was working behind the scenes to accomplish His purposes, in ways the Israelites could not have foreseen. Judges 7:15 says, "When Gideon heard the dream and its interpretation, he bowed down and worshiped. He returned to the camp of Israel and called out, 'Get up! The LORD has given the Midianite camp into your hands.'" Again the word "given" is used. Gideon was counting on a victory that hadn't happened yet, and was moving forward in confidence.

I think Gideon's response here is key. He immediately worshiped God as sure as if the victory had already taken place. He trusted God completely even though the circumstances weren't certain. After he worshiped God, he took action. He operated according to God's faithfulness, not his own perspective.

What has God given you that you need to take hold of—even if it doesn't look like it from where you're standing? Freedom in finances? A healed relationship? A better marriage? A job in an unstable market? A dream He's whispered to your heart? Can you move forward in worship and trust, counting on the fact that it has been given to you already? Focusing on what lies ahead and not what's happening now?Given. It's already happened. Are you living like it has ?                                                                                                                                                             

Dear Lord, I am thinking of the things You've given me that I've missed because I didn't trust You like I should have. Keep my eyes open to Your promises and let me take hold of them with confidence in You and not my circumstances. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

Visit Marybeth's blog

Living Financially Free: Hard Earned Wisdom for Saving Your Money and Your Marriageby Marybeth and Curt Whalen

Becoming a Woman of Influence (CD)by Marybeth Whalen

She Reads

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: 
Write down something in your life that you'd like to know God has given to you. Ask Him to lead you to some scriptures that will help you hear from Him about this particular issue. Then ask Him to help you see what response you need to have.

Reflections: 
Can I think of a time when God has given me something and I knew it before it actually took place? Have I let these experiences build my faith?

Power Verses:
Joshua 6:2, "Then the LORD said to Joshua, 'See, I have delivered Jericho into your hands, along with its king and its fighting men.'" (NIV)

I Corinthians 4:2, "Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful." (NIV)

© 2011 by Marybeth Whalen. All rights reserved.

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

[Judy Harder]

March 17, 2011

The Lord Will Provide

Micca Monda Campbell

"Abraham, Abraham!"  ... "Do not lay your hand on the lad or do anything to him, for now I know that you fear God, since you have not withheld your son, your only son, from me." Genesis 22:11b-12 (NKJ)

Devotion:
One of my favorite stories of the Bible is recorded in Genesis 22 where Abraham's faith is totally tested by God. God commands him to offer up his only son, Isaac, as a human sacrifice.

Whenever I read about this historical event, I picture the scene in my mind ... Abraham stands over his son, distraught in anguish, as sweat pours from his brow. For a moment he turns away to gain composure, then clinches his teeth and lifts the knife high into the air, pausing just long enough to secure control of his quivering hand. Suddenly, he hears a voice from heaven say, "Abraham, don't touch him!" (my paraphrase).

Instantly, tension melts into relief as he drops the knife and burst into tears of joy. I can almost hear the clang of the knife's blade as it falls against rocks. Abraham scoops his boy into his arms and kisses his face repeatedly. Under his breath, he praises the Lord, "Thank You, God. Thank You."

God's command, "Take your son, your only son, whom you love—Isaac—and...sacrifice him," must have pierced Abraham's ever-faithful heart.  Sometimes it feels as if God pierces my faithful heart, too. Perhaps you're feeling pierced today and battling to maintain your hope in God.

Let's face it, when everything seems to be against us it hurts, especially when we've been faithful. 

·         It hurts when you've been a good spouse, but the divorce papers appear anyway.

·         It hurts when you've sacrificed for your friend only to be rejected in your time of need.

·         It hurts when you deserve the promotion only to discover it went to someone younger.

·         It hurts when you diligently save only to lose your lifelong savings in the stock market.

·         It hurts when you've raised your teenager in church and he walks away from God.

Sometimes I want to scream, "I can't sacrifice anymore, Lord!"

It's when I reach the end of self-effort that I realize what God is after—my undivided heart.

The same was true with Abraham. God never wanted Abraham to sacrifice his son. He wanted Abraham's trust and his surrendered heart. It's what the Lord longs from you and me, too. He wants us to trust Him no matter our situation.

So, where did Abraham get that kind of trust? He got it from God's promise. Before Isaac was born, God promised Abraham that countless descendents would come through his son. If Abraham were to eliminate Isaac, God would still fulfill His promise. According to Hebrews 11:19, Abraham believed if he killed his son, God would raise him from the dead. Notice Abraham's faith when he said, "I and the boy [will] go over there. We will worship and then we will come back to you" (Genesis 22:5).

Abraham not only took God at His word, he fully trusted Him with the situation. You and I would do well to do the same. The Bible is full of God's promises to provide for us in times of sorrow, hardship, weakness, and fear. Standing on His promises during adversity gives us the support we need until our troubles pass.     

Dear Lord, teach me Your promises. Help me to hide them in my heart so that they may become the support and help You intend them to be in my life. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

Do You Know Him?

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

Visit Micca's blogfor a list of God's promises.

Trials for Today, Treasures for Tomorrow: Overcoming Adversities in Life by Jan Eckles
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: 
Begin today memorizing some of God's promises. Each week add new ones to your list. Visit Micca's blog for a list of God's promises you can began with today.

                                                                                                       

Reflections: 
Did Abraham know what the outcome would be of God's command?

Can I trust God with my children, job, health,________ even if I don't know the outcome?

Power Verses:
Hebrews 11:6, "And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him." (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]

March 18, 2011

When I Am Free

Lynn Cowell

"You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature; rather, serve one another humbly in love." Galatians 5:13 (NIV)     

Devotion:
"Mom, the dog won't come! I think she has run away again."

Uggg....This was MY time. Why should I have to take care of the dog? I never wanted her any way! These were the stinky thoughts in my brain at 9:30 one evening after spending the day doing the "have to's." I was enjoying my few minutes of "want to's." I didn't want to be interrupted!

As I got up off the couch, my daughter asked, "What is wrong?" It felt as though the Holy Spirit Himself was asking me. What is wrong with you?

What was wrong with me was me.

Do you ever suffer from Me Syndrome? You know, that time of the day or the month when you feel that now is the time for me? I sure do; often in fact. If it doesn't help or benefit me, I don't want to do it! I guess that is why Galatians 5:13 jumped off the page when I read it recently.

"You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature; rather, serve one another in love." (NIV)

Ouch! That really hurt! Freedom is given so I can serve. Okay, Lord, so where do you want to free me so I can serve?

Here is the short list of what was downloaded to my heart in a mere two minutes of journaling my response to that question:

When I am free from ambition, I am free to serve with a joyful heart.

When I am free from selfishness, I am free from irritation.

When I am free from jealousy, I am free to rejoice in the good of another.

When I am free from judgment, I am free to pray from a pure heart.

When I am free from expectation, I am free to enjoy whatever comes.

When I am freed from controlling others, I am free to see the miraculous.

When I am truly free, I will see the Kingdom of God in my life.

That is what I want to see –the Kingdom of God come in my life. What is that going to take? It's going to take tearing free from my own selfish thoughts and feelings.  It's going to take looking at things from God's perspective. It's going to take God's help. In order to be free, I have to be free of me.

Do you want to be free too? Free to find total and utter completion in Jesus? What steps will you take this week to make that freedom a reality?

Father, when I don't get my "to do" list done, I am irritated and frustrated. When I am tired and one more person needs me, I feel angry and annoyed. Only You can free me of me, Jesus. I give You permission to do it! In Your powerful Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
Do You Know Him?

Visit Lynn's blog today where she is sharing her favorite "focuses" when her heart wants to fly off the handle!

He is that Into You(CD) by Lynn Cowell

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: 
It is normal as women to have moments when we feel like we just cannot give any more. We are spent. Choose to memorize today's verse for those times when you need to serve and struggle to do so.

Reflections: 
Do I ever struggle with ambition, jealousy, expectation, selfishness, or control issues?

Choosing the one I wrestle with the most, I'll apply Galatians 5:1 and claim my freedom!

Power Verses:
Galatians 5:1, "It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery." (NIV)

Psalm 119:45, "I will walk about in freedom, for I have sought out your precepts." (NIV)

© 2011 by Lynn Cowell. All rights reserved.

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

 

[Judy Harder]

March 21, 2011

I'll See You at the Party

Melissa Taylor

"The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life and have it to the full."John 10:10 (NIV)       

Devotion:
She asked to see the family, so of course, we complied with her request. After all, this woman, now in her ninety-second year of life, had earned our love and respect.

Just nine months ago, she was independent, full of energy, and involved in life. Now she was calling her family together to say, "Good-bye." We were saddened by Little Granny's announcement that she was ready to meet Jesus face to face, until she added, "Put away those sad faces...I am happy! Keep smiling."

Many would not understand her joy in the midst of the knowledge she was dying. But Little Granny knew something about where she was going.

I took my kids to see her to say their final good-byes. They hugged their great-grandmother and told her how much they loved her. She told them the same, her words faint and weak.

When it was my turn, I leaned in and kissed her cheek. "I love you," I said. To which she replied, "I'll see you at the party."

At first I thought she might be disoriented. But as I looked at her through my tears, I realized she was thinking very clearly. Little Granny was on her way to "the party" in heaven, her eternal home.

I get the joy that Little Granny felt over going to the party. I'm so thankful that after this life journey is over, I'll join her at that party. But even in the joy of eternity, death is hard. It's hard on us who are still here.

My mother died one year ago. The ache that burns deep in my heart is like none I've experienced. She was my best friend, and now she's gone. Just today as I was grocery shopping, I caught a glimpse of the apple turnovers that she loved so much. We used to eat them topped with vanilla ice cream. I broke down right there in the frozen food section. I so badly want to enjoy an apple turnover with my mom. That part of my life is over and I'm left wounded. The only peace I have is that Mom is at the "party" and one day I'll join her. Until then, I must live my life.

I don't mean get through life; I mean really live life. As Jesus says, "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy;I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full"(John 10:10). My Life Application Study Bible's commentary puts it this way: "In contrast to the thief who takes life, Jesus gives life. The life he gives right now is abundantly richer and fuller. It is eternal, yet it begins immediately."

Sadly, too many of us spend our lives waiting to go to the party instead of living for the party - right now. We realize that our life here on earth is not always what we wished for but then we settle for a dull, just-getting-by life instead of the spiritually rich and abundantly full life Jesus offers.

How do we live that full life with so many trials? We stay close to the One who has promised us life; we stay close to Jesus. We remain in the Word of God and apply His promises to our lives. It doesn't mean all of our pain will be removed, but it does mean we can live full and free lives.

Little Granny said, "I'll see you at the party."  Well Little Granny, I hope you are having a blast up there! And in memory of you and my mother, I think I'll have a little party right here of my own... a Jesus party, where I will strive to do just what He said and live my life to the full!

I hope to see you at the party!

Dear Lord, thank You for giving life to me through Jesus. Because of You, I have hope and reason to be joyful. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
Join Melissa as she leads a community of online friends closer to Jesus so we can live out His Word in our everyday lives. All are invited! You can visit Melissa's blog to find out more and sign up for her online Bible study of It's No Secret. Today she's giving away an autographed copy.

It's No Secret: Revealing Divine Truths Every Woman Should Know by Rachel Olsen.  All books purchased through Proverbs 31 Ministries will be autographed by Rachel!

Want to talk with Rachel, Melissa and others about the book? Sign up for the It's No Secret, Online Bible Study Conference Calls.

Share the joy of life with Jesus with your children through From the Pound to the Palace book and DVD by Van Walton

When you purchase resources through Proverbs 31 Ministries, you touch eternity! Your purchase supports the many areas of hope-giving ministry we provide at no cost. Therefore, we are so grateful for every purchase you make with us. Thank you!

Application Steps: 
I want to invite you to a great big party on my blog, www.MelissaTaylor.org, where we are going to learn to live to the full!  We may share a few tears, but we'll also celebrate this life with joy and laughter while reading It's No Secret together. It will take us from feeling tired, exhausted, bored, and sad to being filled with Jesus and the Word of God!  What do you say - will you join me?

Reflections: 
Am I exhausted, bored, or just sad about life? Isn't it time to change all that?

Power Verses:
John 3:16, "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." (NIV)

John 14:6, "Jesus answered, 'I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.'" (NIV)

© 2011 by Melissa Taylor. All rights reserved.

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

 

[Judy Harder]

March 22, 2011

When I'm Not There, God Is

Glynnis Whitwer

"For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways."
Psalm 91:11 (NIV)

Devotion:
I watched the weather report with heightened concern. A winter snowstorm in the White Mountains was normally great news. It meant the ski lifts would soon be open and that our dry state would benefit from moisture. Today, however, it had a more ominous meaning, for my son Dylan was in the path of the storm.

Dylan and his high school wrestling team had been at a tournament in the mountains for a few days. They were due to be leaving soon, and my concern turned to dread as I pictured those desert dwellers trying to navigate through a snowstorm. My panicked mind reviewed all the horror stories of school sports teams, in vans or buses, going off the road. As I imagined the curving road with blinding snow, my heart started to pound.

The ringing of the phone jarred me from my unhealthy thoughts, and I heard my son's voice on the other end. "Mom," he said. "We're leaving right now to try and beat the storm." I breathed a prayer of thanks for those coaches who cared more about the kids' safety than finishing the tournament, but my worry continued.

Never before had I experienced such a longing to have my son safe in my arms. But that wasn't possible. Dylan had to make that journey home in the care of others. Thankfully, in the midst of my worry, God reminded me that Dylan wasn't just in the care of those coaches, but He was watching over Dylan.

I've struggled with this issue of worry over my children's safety since they were born. Because of my tendency to worry, I have the potential to be over-protective. However, years ago, God revealed to me that my fears were born more out of my lack of trust than a healthy concern. The truth was I believed my children were only safe when they were in my care. The reality of this fallen world is my children are only safe in the care of God.

Many of us will deal with anxiety over our children's safety, as well as countless other things. Instead of being overcome with worry, I've learned to identify the worries that come when I've misplaced my trust. It prompts me to pray more, trust more, and enjoy more of life with my children. By the way, my son and his wrestling team made it home safely that day and my prayer life has been stronger ever since.

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for caring for my children even more than I do. Thank You for hearing my prayers, and for protecting my children. Help me to learn to trust You more, and to pray more about even the smallest details of their lives. I want to be a woman and mom who trusts You, the true source of all help. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

P31 Woman magazine

Visit Glynnis' blog for more encouragement in trusting God.

When Your Child Is Hurting by Glynnis Whitwer

The Character of God: Understanding His Heart for Usby Brian T. Anderson and Glynnis Whitwer

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
Make a list of the times when you are most concerned for your child's safety. Commit to praying every day for a week regarding these specific needs. Hopefully this will jump start a pattern of consistent prayer. If you aren't currently parenting a child at home, identify a child you know and pray for him or her.

Reflections
Why is it important for a parent (or any adult) to pray for children?

According to Psalm 91, from what does God protect His people?

Power Verses
Isaiah 43:2, "When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze." (NIV)

Psalm 4:8, "I will lie down and sleep in peace, for you alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety." (NIV)

Matthew 18:10, "See that you do not look down on one of these little ones. For I tell you that their angels in heaven always see the face of my Father in heaven." (NIV)

© 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 23, 2011

Stay

Amy Carroll

"May your unfailing love rest upon us, O LORD, even as we put our hope in you."
Psalm 33:22 (NIV)   

Devotion:
I failed my friend. Although I'd love to tell you how I stuck by her as an encouraging presence and practical helper through her darkest days, it simply wouldn't be true.

I didn't understand her choices. I couldn't endorse her actions. I struggled with the consequences of what she wanted to do, and so I left. I didn't actually go anywhere physically, but I withdrew my availability and my openness. I tucked my heart into a safe, little box and walked away from her situation.

That was years ago, but I still look back on that time with regret and sorrow. Although I've made attempts since to reach out and reconcile, my friend is understandably cautious as she guards her still-hurting heart. I hope one day that our friendship will be fully restored, but until then I've tried to use the consequences of my choice to learn some things.  I desperately want to learn to stay.

Stay through conflict.

Stay through struggles.

Stay through suffering.

Stay through discomfort.

Stay through misunderstanding.

Mary Magdalene is a beautiful example of a constant heart. Because of her great love for Jesus, she stayed.

She stayed after He set her free.

She stayed as He traveled.

She stayed through His torture.

She stayed at the cross.

She stayed at His burial.

She stayed to pass on the news of His resurrection.

Mary Magdalene is a picture of steadfast faithfulness. But sometimes I have trouble staying.

When a church doesn't quite fit my desires, I long for a "happier" place. When a friend is going through a bad time because of choices I can't endorse, I tend to withdraw. When God does things I can't understand, I yearn to flee to a more comfortable setting. It seems easier and less painful.

Come Thou Fount is my favorite hymn, and I think it's because this verse resounds so loudly with me:

O to grace how great a debtor daily I'm constrained to be!

Let thy goodness, like a fetter, bind my wandering heart to thee.

Prone to wander, Lord, I feel it,

Prone to leave the God I love;

Here's my heart, O take and seal it,

Seal it for thy courts above.

I want to leave sometimes, but I long to stay. I long to learn an abiding love for God, my family and my friends that extends a grace beyond my own strength —a strength from One who never leaves. The One who is teaching me to stay.

Dear Lord, sometimes it's not easy to stay when conflict, disagreements or differences get in the way. Would You give me the power to love people unconditionally and the wisdom to know how to love them well?  In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

Do You Know Him?

Visit Amy's blog

The Friends We Keep: A Woman's Quest for the Soul of Friendship by Sarah Zacharias Davis
The Woman I Am Becoming by T. Suzanne Eller
When you purchase resources through Proverbs 31 Ministries, you touch eternity!  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: 
Read the Psalms and reflect on God's faithfulness and steadfastness.

Pray that God would weave His constant character into yours.

Reflections: 
Are there times when I fled instead of staying?

Would God have me go back and begin to make amends for those times?

Power Verses:
John 19:25, "Near the cross of Jesus stood his mother, his mother's sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene." (NIV)

Deuteronomy 31:8, "The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged." (NIV

© 2011 by Amy Carroll. All rights reserved.

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