Encouragement for Today

[Judy Harder]

 July 22, 2011

Friends in Action
Marybeth Whalen


"Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends." John 15:13 (NIV)

What makes a good friend? Someone who runs errands for you when you're sick? Who takes your kids off your hands when you need a break? Who sits with you over a cup of coffee and listens? Someone you can count on to see the latest chick flicks with you? Someone who challenges you to be a better wife, mother, and follower of God?

In each of these examples, we see friendship taking an active form. As I have studied the Bible, I see three instances of friendship in action. Job 2:11-13 shows us how Job's friends came to help him as he faced hardship. Eliphaz, Bildad and Zophar dropped everything to go comfort their friend — even if it was just to sit silently beside him. They knew that just their presence and willingness to listen would comfort him.

Acts 28:15 gives us a glimpse into how just the sight of trusted friends can encourage us. Paul's friends heard he was coming so they traveled a great distance to greet him. For Paul this was a huge blessing. Sometimes just knowing someone is willing to make an effort on your behalf will put wind in your sails. I love that Paul first thanked God for his friends. I want to remember, like he did, that friends are a gift from God.

Acts 12:12-19 tells us how Peter's friends couldn't be with him because he was imprisoned. But that didn't stop them from doing what they could. They gathered together to pray. The King James Version of Acts 12:5 says that they were literally praying "without ceasing." These friends knew that corporate prayer was an action they could take on behalf of their friend who needed them.

Whether we physically go to our friend's side or spiritually partner with them in prayer, we can look to these examples from the Bible as to how to be friends in action.

In a society that is more and more driven to social media, texting, and emailing as a way to stay connected, we cannot overlook what taking physical action in real time can mean. We can be active in faith, in love, in joy, in kindness. We choose to act because we understand that we are God's hands and feet to those He puts in our lives. Yes, it takes extra effort, time, and even money to be an active friend. But the blessings outweigh the effort as we live according to the examples God has given us.

Dear Lord, help me to be a friend who takes action. When You lay someone on my heart, help me to feel a sense of urgency to move on their behalf. Help me to follow these Biblical examples and be a friend in action, not just in thought. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
Listen to Today's P31 Radio Show

She Makes It Look Easy by Marybeth Whalen.

A Life That Says Welcome, Simple Ways to Open Your Heart & Home to Others by Karen Ehman

Application Steps:
Look up the passages that were discussed in today's devotion and read them for yourself. Jot down any thoughts in your journal about the kind of friend you would like to have, and the kind of friend you would like to be.

Reflections:
Is God asking me to be a friend to someone that takes more effort than I want to give? How will I respond?

I'll continue praying for my good friend and won't give up! Today I'll persevere in prayer that God will provide for that special friend.

Power Verses:
Acts 24:23, "He ordered the centurion to keep Paul under guard but to give him some freedom and permit his friends to take care of his needs." (NIV)

Job 42:10, "After Job had prayed for his friends, the LORD made him prosperous again and gave him twice as much as he had before." (NIV)

© 2011 by Marybeth Whalen. All rights reserved.

[Judy Harder]

 July 25, 2011

When Your Walls Don't Come Tumbling Down
T. Suzanne Eller


"Even if the fig tree does not bloom and the vines have no grapes, even if the olive tree fails to produce and the fields yield no food, even if the sheep pen is empty and the stalls have no cattle — even then, I will be happy with the Lord. I will truly find joy in God, who saves me." Habakkuk 3:17-18 (GW)

Bills stacked up like accusations. If only you'd worked smarter. If only you had started smaller. What were you thinking?

I wondered if anyone saw me walk around the dairy barn seven times. I was desperate. My young husband worked 80 to 100 hours a week, trying to keep the farm from going into foreclosure. I remembered Joshua, in the Old Testament, walking around the walls of Jericho. God saw Joshua's faith and made those walls come tumbling down.

I hoped marching around our dairy barn might create a miracle for us so I prayed, asking God to bring down our walls of adversity.

Looking back at that time brings mixed feelings. Farming was my husband's dream. This city girl bought into it because she loved her handsome young farmer.

A recession hit the farming industry after ten years of hard work and sacrifice. Our paycheck shrunk smaller and smaller. Friends sold their farms and ventured into the unfamiliar world of 40-hour work weeks and twice-a-month paychecks. But we hung on.

The day came when we realized that our walls of Jericho were not coming down for us. I stood by my husband's side as his dream was loaded up in cattle cars, and then bumped down the dirt road and out of our lives.

I had no words for my sweet husband. The only truth we could hang on to was that God is faithful. It was our anchor during that year of uncertainty.

The prophet Habakkuk also faced immanent disaster, and he too comforted himself as he recalled the faithfulness of God over the years. Life was uncertain, but God's love and providence was not.

Years later I can see clearly how God walked with us through that very hard time, though it was hard to see at the time. We changed careers. We sold our farm. It took years to climb up and out of the debt that remained. Yet somehow God wrapped His arms around a young couple during that time.

Like in Habakkuk's life, God provided moments of gladness for us that didn't make sense. There was laughter as we clung together. Precious family memories of inexpensive outings such as picnics in the park and splashing at a local public pool. Trusting God together became our new normal.

Are you facing a hard time? If so, here are some ideas to encourage you — as you hold tight to Him.

Do your part: Whether financial or other, acknowledge the challenge. We opened the bills. We created a budget and lived within it. We asked if there were actions on our part that led to this challenge, and addressed them if there were.

Let God do His part: Pray for your situation. Praise Him for the blessings you do have and focus on those gifts. Do what you should, and then place what you cannot do in His hands.

Overcoming challenging circumstances involves teamwork as you and God work through it together. Sometimes the greatest miracles come when God changes us and gives us joy in Him, even though our prayers aren't answered the way we prayed they would be.

Dear Lord, times are hard and I need You. I place my trust in You. Even when there seems to be nothing...I want to find my happiness in You. Please give me joy in the midst of this difficult time. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
Do You Know Him?

Visit Suzie's blog as she shares "3 Truths in Troubled Times."

Learning to Live Financially Free: Hard Earned Wisdom for Saving Your Money and Your Marriage by Marybeth Whalen

What Happens When Women Say Yes to God by Lysa TerKeurst

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:
Often, overcoming a challenge involves teamwork as you and God work through it together.

Do your part: Whether financial or other, acknowledge your challenge. Ask God if there were actions on your part that led to this challenge, and addressed them if there are.

Let God do His part: Pray for your situation. Thanks Him for the blessings you do have and focus on those gifts. Do what you should, and then place what you cannot do in His hands.

Reflections:
What are five blessings in my life that I can take time to thank God for today?

Power Verses:
Psalm 100:5, "The Lord is good. His unfailing love continues forever, and his faithfulness continues to each generation." (NLT)

Habakkuk 3:19, "The Sovereign Lord is my strength! He makes me as surefooted as a deer, able to tread upon the heights." (NLT)

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

[Judy Harder]

 July 26, 2011

Perfect Weakness
Micca Monda Campbell


"My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." 2 Corinthians 12:9a (NIV)

It started out like any other evening at home. Donny made dinner while Annie attended aerobics class after work. It was a good arrangement. Donny got to practice his cooking skills and Annie got to exercise. Once Annie was home, dinner was served.

Unknowingly, their lives were about to change forever. In the middle of dinner, Annie's right hand suddenly went numb. Unable to hold her fork, she dropped it to the floor.

"Are you okay?" Donny asked. Annie felt ill. Her head pounded like never before. Something was wrong.

The next day, Annie's MRI exposed bad news: a brain aneurysm. The good news was it was operable. Alarmed by the dreadful findings, Annie fell to pieces as the doctor explained the procedure. He would start by shaving her head where the incision would be made. Then, the brain specialist would remove the left part of Annie's skull.

Her heart would have to stop for a split second in order to put a metal clamp around the artery in her brain. This would definitely affect her speech for a while. The doctor couldn't guarantee how things would turn out, but he was hopeful. Distressed, both Annie and Donny melted with grief.

After sharing the news with friends and family, Annie sank into a deep depression. The unknowns of her condition left her scared stiff. Her mind raced with possible outcomes. She didn't get out of bed or bathe for days until she visited her pastor. Surely, he could offer her the peace to face her illness. But peace didn't come during their conversation.

"I need something more," Annie confessed to her pastor.

"He is what you need," the pastor said, as he pointed to the large cross hanging at the front of the church. Annie walked slowly toward the cross, knelt down in front of it, and cried out to the Lord. She didn't ask God to heal her. She didn't even ask to live through it. "Just give me the strength to do Your will," Annie pleaded.

At the moment Annie placed her life before God, she was filled with His peace and power. She had no more tears. Annie knew in that moment, no matter what — live or die — everything was going to be fine.

Annie's surgery was a success. Though it took several months before she could speak again and nearly a year to heal fully, she had something better than a life without trials or sickness. She had the companionship of Christ and the assurance of His strength and enabling grace.

The world's philosophy says, "What can't be cured must be endured." Our key verse says the opposite. What can't be cured makes us dependent on the power of God. In that dependency, His power is given and we are made strong. I've come to learn this truth myself. God doesn't always remove me from my painful circumstances, but He supports me in them. This strengthens me like none other.

Something amazing happens when we faithfully cry out to the Lord in our weakness and believe in His perfect care. We experience His super-natural power and peace. Our faith suddenly becomes stronger than our fear, and our trust becomes a strong witness to others. Go ahead and be weak when the crisis comes. His strength and grace are sufficient.

Dear Lord, thank You for Your strong grace when my circumstances look bleak. In my weakness, I cry out in utter dependence on You. Make Your power known to me. Be my hope, my peace and my strength. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
Do You Know Him?

Today's devotion was taken from, An Untroubled Heart: Finding Faith that is Stronger than All Your Fears by Micca Campbell

Visit Micca's blog and enter to win her 3 CD set of Finding a Faith Stronger than All My Fear.

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:
Tell God your needs. Sounds simple but how often do you do cry out and allow His peace and strength to carry you?

Reflections:
How often do I pray for a miracle but expect no response?

How can my expectations keep me from experiencing God's care?

Power Verses:
Psalm 4:1 "Answer me when I call to you, O my righteous God. Give me relief from my distress; be merciful to me and hear my prayer" (NIV)

Romans 15:13 "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit" (NIV)

© 2011 by Micca Campbell. All rights reserved.

[Judy Harder]

 July 27, 2011

Measuring Up
Renee Swope


"When they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they are not wise." 2 Corinthians 10:12b (NIV)

Do you ever compare yourself to others and feel like you don't quite measure up? Maybe you think you're not as smart, capable, personable, or as godly as they are.

It is so easy to think that if we had more or knew more, we'd be secure. But the truth is, even people who "have it all" still struggle with feelings of insecurity. The Bible opens with the story of a woman who had everything, but it wasn't enough (Genesis 2).

God had established Eve's worth as His child and the crown of His creation. He also gave Eve every woman's desire: intimacy, beauty, security, significance, and purpose. Yet Satan conjured up feelings of insecurity by getting Eve to take her eyes off what she had and focus on what she didn't have.

Boy, can I relate. Like Eve, I've heard Satan's whispers telling me I'm not all I could be — or should be. One day I was reading her story in Genesis 2 and I noticed that his questions and suggestions were intended to plant seeds of doubt in Eve's heart. He wanted her to doubt God and herself.

The enemy's whispers tempted Eve to try to "be" more and "have" more by seeking significance apart from God's provision. He convinced her something was missing in her life and that the forbidden fruit would make her be "like God."

It was a foolish comparison, but all comparisons are. Yet don't we do it all the time? If only I was like her...if only I had a house like hers, a husband like hers, a job like hers...if only my children behaved like hers...If only _______, then I'd feel significant, satisfied and secure.

In today's key verse, Paul warns us that those who "measure themselves by themselves, and compare themselves with themselves, are not wise" (2 Cor. 10:12 NIV). Comparison will always leave us feeling like we don't measure up. We can try to do more and be more, yet it's never enough.

If only Eve had focused on who she was and what she had as a child of God. If only we could too.

Yet Satan wants us to focus on our flaws and feelings of inadequacy, then exhaust our energy figuring out how to hide them. But we don't have to go along with his schemes. Instead we can recognize his lies, refute his temptations with truth, and focus on God's acceptance, security, and significance. Then we can thank God for His provision and His promises that remind us of who we are in Him:

I am accepted...
Ephesians 1:3-8 I have been chosen by God and adopted as His child.
Colossians 1:13-14 I have been redeemed and forgiven of all my sins.
Colossians 2:9-10 I am complete in Christ.

I am secure...
Romans 8:28 I am assured that God works for my good in all circumstances.
Romans 8:31-39 I am free from condemnation. I can't be separated from God's love.
Philippians1:6 I am confident God will complete the good work He started in me.

I am significant...
Ephesians 2:10 I am God's workmanship.
Ephesians 3:12 I may approach God with freedom and confidence.
Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me.

Lord, thank You that in Christ I'm accepted, secure and significant. When I'm tempted to find my significance and security apart from Your provision and promises, help me recognize Satan's lies, refuse his temptations and stand firm in my faith. Remind me that such confidence as this is mine through Christ — not that I am competent in myself to claim anything for myself, but competence comes from Him. In Jesus' Name, Amen. (see 1 Peter 5:9; 2 Corinthians 3:4-5)

Related Resources:
This devotion is taken in part from chapter 6 of Renee Swope's book: A Confident Heart: How to Stop Doubting Yourself & Live in the Security of God's Promises. To find out more or order your copy, click here.

Visit Renee's new website for a wonderful list of "Our Identity in Christ" Bible verses and enter to win her "Contagious Confidence" give-away!

Application Steps:
When you're tempted to use the measuring stick of comparison — be sure to measure UP by focusing upward on Christ — whose you are and who you are in HIM!

Reflections:
"The more you reaffirm who you are in Christ, the more your behavior (and beliefs) will begin to reflect your true identity!" Dr. Neil T. Anderson

Power Verses:
1 Peter 5:9, "Stand firm against him [the devil], and be strong in your faith. Remember that your Christian brothers and sisters all over the world are going through the same kind of suffering you are. (NLT)

2 Corinthians 3:4-5, "Such confidence we have through Christ before God. Not that we are competent in ourselves to claim anything for ourselves, but our competence comes from God." (NIV)

© 2011 by Renee Swope. All rights reserved.

[Judy Harder]

 July 28, 2011

This is What I Wish
Lysa TerKeurst


"For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." Luke 12:34 (NIV)

For my daughters, for your daughters. For my sons, for your sons.

This is what I wish.

You are young with eyes that spark and speak of innocence. Don't trade. Don't trade the pure peace that greets you each morning for a taste of something meant for later. Later, when a person handpicked by God will want nothing more than to protect you. They won't want from you. They will want for you.

For you.

This is what I wish.

When I was young with eyes that sparked and spoke of innocence, I found myself lured by the pull of a want. A want that welled up from deep within the heart of a girl desperate. For love. For kind words. For that feeling of being wanted, noticed, and told she's pretty.

I tucked my peace in my pocket feeling so certain it would stay even if I stuck my toes in the current of my want.

I waded out into forbidden waters. Ankle deep the rush felt thrilling. Knee deep I felt old enough, strong enough and a bit annoyed that people I respected didn't trust me. I knew what I was doing. This didn't feel dangerous so I reasoned it wasn't dangerous.

But it was.

I was wrong.

This is what I wish.

That I had listened.

Listened to voices of truth to turn back, run back, get myself out of the current. Resist the pull. Refuse the lie that feelings are to be followed. Feelings are to be brought up on the solid ground of truth. Truth that doesn't shift. Truth that doesn't betray.

But I kept walking out further and further. Deeper and deeper. And into a current so strong I didn't realize how far I'd gone. Until it was too late. Waves of regret, anxiety, and fear swept over me. The one that told me I was pretty was gone.

And so was something else. I shoved my hand into my pocket now empty. I'd been so sure peace would stay. I was wrong. It had slipped away.

Oh if only I'd known even at that point to turn, run back to the truth, get back to solid ground. I would have seen peace had washed up there. When peace slips it always finds its way back to stand hand in hand with truth. Just like I eventually did. But to have never walked away and dipped my toes where they shouldn't have gone would have prevented years of heartbreak and ocean of tears.

Make that choice now. No matter where you are.

This is what I wish.

Dear Lord, help me to run to the truth and get back to solid ground. I desperately want each of my daily choices to lead back to You. Only You. Here and now. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
Lysa will be speaking in more than 40 cities this year. Click here to see her schedule. She would be honored to meet you.

If you struggle with having self-control with your food choices, 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

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:
What do you wish for young people today? What is that one thing you wish you could tell them? Now what can you do this week to reach out to someone who needs to know? Who will that be?

Reflections:
Feelings are to be brought up on the solid ground of truth. Truth that doesn't shift. Truth that doesn't betray.

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

Psalm 37:4, "Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart." (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]

 July 29, 2011

Are You Ready for a Do-Over?
Glynnis Whitwer


"Then the word of the LORD came to Jonah a second time: 'Go to the great city of Nineveh and proclaim to it the message I give you.'" Jonah 3:1-2 (NIV)

Do-overs don't come along often. When they do, I've learned you need to be ready. One second it's a normal Sunday night, the next second God hands you a do-over on a silver platter.

That weekend my youngest son Robbie and my husband went to Rocky Point, Mexico, on a short mission trip. A team of nurses set up a weekend medical clinic, and my guys spent the day assisting the team, and playing games with the waiting children.

They had a great time and arrived home for dinner with the family on Sunday. Robbie helped me clean the kitchen afterwards, while we talked about the trip. My husband had already told me Robbie loved it, and bragged on how hard he worked. But at that moment it was just me and Robbie in the kitchen.

Robbie had his back to me, washing a counter. In a voice that sounded somewhat shaking and unsure, I heard him say, "I think I found my calling."

My response that Sunday night was VERY different than it would have been seven years ago. Seven years ago, if Robbie had made that same comment, shamefully, I would not have been very supportive.

ALL I would have thought about is how far away that might take the boy I desperately love. I would have thrown in a few "motherly" cautions and warnings. I might have expressed my concern not so much in words, but in held back affirmations. I've done it before.

Seven years ago, when his oldest brother wanted to go to Honduras at age 13, that's how I responded. He'd already gone to Mexico on a mission trip and it deeply shook his little suburban-self up. He wanted to pursue mission work and was excited about the idea of Honduras. I never said no, but in subtle ways, I influenced my loving son by what I said and didn't say. Josh eventually dropped the subject.

I'm ashamed. I've repented with many tears. I've regretted how I allowed my fears to hold back my son from obeying God's calling. I've lived with the "what ifs" for years. What if I had encouraged Josh to explore this potential calling? What would it have done in Josh's heart?

Sunday night, Robbie got a very different response. This time, I had to restrain my enthusiasm so he didn't feel embarrassed by my emotional response. A second chance had just been placed in my lap, and I wasn't about to mess it up.

"That's awesome!" I said. Then I stopped cleaning and turned to face him. "Have you thought about another trip you'd like to take? The church sponsors lots of trips, you know." (I could feel myself getting excited, and tried to rein myself in.)

"I'd like to go back to Mexico."

"What about Uganda or Honduras?" I suggested. (I was having trouble reining myself in.)

"I think I'd like to try Mexico again before taking a bigger trip." (Okay, so he's still got a bit of me in him.)

"Robbie," I said, making sure he saw the confidence and pride in my eyes. "We will do whatever it takes to allow you to go on any mission trip you want."

"Thanks Mom."

And in my heart I heard a whisper, Thanks Glynnis.

I smiled as I turned back to the dishes and bowed my head. No, thank You Lord, for a second chance.

Dear Lord, that You for forgiving me for the times I've allowed my fears to hold my loved ones back from obeying Your call. I want to be a woman who trusts You completely with the lives of my family. Help me to walk in faithful abandon, believing fully that You know what You are doing. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
Visit Glynnis' blog for more on how to teach your child to overcome fear (and help yourself overcome fear in the process).

When Your Child Is Hurting by Glynnis Whitwer

Moving from Fear to Freedom: A Woman's Guide to Peace in Every Situation by Grace Fox

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:
Think of one thing you or a family member would like to do, but fear has held you back. Take some time to identify the root of the fear, and ask God to help you overcome it.

Reflections:
Do my fears affect anyone besides me? Family, friends, others? Describe.

List some of the attributes of God that tell of how powerful God is in the face of fears. (unchanging, all-knowing, etc.)

Power Verses:
Revelation 12:11, "They triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death." (NIV)

Psalm 34:4, "I sought the LORD, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears. (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]

August 1, 2011

Finish Like You Started
Marybeth Whalen


"Are you so foolish? After beginning with the Spirit, are you now trying to attain your goal by human effort?" Galatians 3:3 (NIV1984)

If you've ever felt God call you to something, you know the sheer excitement — and sheer terror — of stepping out in response to His call. You know what it means to walk in faith, to follow Him into the unknown. You know the huge spiritual growth that can take place when you say yes to Him and learn to trust Him implicitly.

Even though these "yes" times in our lives can be taxing and frightening, they can also be exhilarating. I've never felt closer to Him than when I've stepped out in faith and set my sights on a goal He has provided for me: a goal that is bigger than me, that is clearly God-designed.

And then time goes by. The first tremors of excitement fade into the daily monotony of continuing to walk forward, sometimes doing the smallest of tasks along the way. The big goal that seemed so paramount begins to shrink the closer we get to it. We feel our excitement give way to apathy.

And, too often, we get out of step with the Spirit and start trying to do things ourselves.

The less afraid we are, the more we try to do things on our own. We start feeling capable — and our capability makes us less reliant on the very One who called us.

When I read today's key verse I literally gasped in conviction. My answer to both of the questions Paul was asking was yes. I was being foolish. I was trying to attain my goals by human effort.

What had happened to that daily reliance, that absolute need for God to work through me? I realized I had become stronger, more confident, and less needy. My flesh had taken over and all but silenced the Spirit within me.

Maybe you've found yourself in a situation where — somehow — you've taken over. Your capability has made you complacent like mine did.

I don't ever want to be complacent. I want to stoke the fire, stay on the edge, be ever-mindful of my own inadequacy in whatever place God has me.

After I read Galatians 3:3, I wrote it down on an index card and laid it on my nightstand so I would see it often. And every time I saw it, I asked God to make me mindful of His Spirit within me, to keep me from getting in my own way, to help me realign my goals with His. Even if it takes humbling me. Even if it takes giving me a new calling so I am out of my comfort zone again. Even if it means starting all over. I began with the Spirit, and I want to finish still holding tightly to Him.

I imagine you do, too.

Dear Lord, I began with the Spirit and I want to stay in step with the Spirit. Help me to rely on You and not my own effort. When I am capable, allow me to be reminded of my own inadequacy so that I would never try to do things by human effort, but always through Yours. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
Do You Know Him?

Visit Marybeth's blog where she will be talking about ways to align yourself with the Spirit again. Stop by and share your ideas!

Becoming a Woman of Influence (CD) by Marybeth Whalen

She Makes It Look Easy by Marybeth Whalen.

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:
Spend today getting back in touch with the call God has on your life. Redefine what He's asked of you, and pray specifically for new challenges that will make your more dependent on the Spirit and not do anything by human effort.

Reflections:
Am I trying to attain my goals by human effort? What do I need to do to get back in step with the Spirit?

Power Verses:
Romans 4:2, "If, in fact, Abraham was justified by works, he had something to boast about — but not before God." (NIV1984)

I Corinthians 1:26a, "Brothers, think of what you were when you were called." (NIV1984)

I Thessalonians 5:19, "Do not put out the Spirit's fire." (NIV 1984)

© 2011 by Marybeth Whalen. All rights reserved.

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

[Judy Harder]

 August 2, 2011

Uncaged
Mary DeMuth
She Reads Featured Author


"We have escaped like a bird out of the fowler's snare; the snare has been broken, and we have escaped. Our help is in the name of the LORD who made heaven and earth." Psalm 124:7-8 (NIV 1984)

As women of faith and joy, we're all birds of paradise, meant to freely soar, to live so fully engaged in the present that most folks wouldn't be able to tell that we've had difficult pasts.

That's how big God is compared to our past trials. He has already uncaged us, and He longs for us to spread our wings.

But I don't always live that way. Much like the main character Willa, in my recent novel, The Muir House, I've been stranded in my past, believing if I could discern all the devastation, I'd finally be free. Unfortunately, secrets in families don't always present themselves all bright and shiny. In their aftermath, I'm left with the question, "If I don't know everything, can I still be free?"

As I examine what the Lord has wrought in my heart, I know He has uncaged me. This is something I couldn't do on my own; it's His sheer gift of grace. Nor is it that I'm a Pollyanna now, rejoicing when bad things happen. It's that my perspective on my life is shifting from introspective pessimism to Jesusy optimism.

Why? I learned this truth: I no longer need to be defined by the trials in the past. I am not Mary who suffered (though it is part of my story). I am Mary who has been set free. Uncaged. Because of Jesus' radical, freeing act on the cross and His mind-boggling resurrection, I don't need to wallow back there; I can rejoice here, now.

We women sometimes live caged lives. Our cages (usually created from our painful past) have become comfortable. We've made our nest in them, letting them become our normal. Soaring is too scary, too new. We'd rather live trapped in our strange comfort zone.

Recently God directed me to fowler verses like Psalm 124:7-8. A fowler is someone who catches a bird in a trap. He is a hunter who observes the behavior of birds to predict what they'll do next. Then he snares the bird based on what it typically does. In like manner, Satan is our fowler. He knows our cages. He convinces us that the door to our cage is locked, that we can't flee. The truth? The door is open, but we're too afraid to fly.

Charles Spurgeon, in his commentary on fowlers, wrote this freeing sentence: "No bird of paradise shall die in the fowler's net."

My heart for you is that you'll experience uncaged, joyful freedom. That you'll be wily enough to silence the enemy's lies that holler, "Your cage is locked." That you'll take one step away from the comfortable cage and flex your wings a little. Dare to be brave today and trust that when you extend your wings, you will fly.

Jesus, please show me if I've made my past a comfort zone or an excuse not to grow. Help me picture the cage of my life as wide open. Give me the courage to step outside, to live uncaged. Oh how I want to fly, fly, fly. I trust You right now to help me soar. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
Thin Places: A Memoir by Mary DeMuth

This month's She Reads book club selection is The Muir House by Mary DeMuth. The Muir House is a novel that explores trauma, healing, love new and old, and the life-changing choices people make to keep their reputations intact. Please stop by the She Reads blog and enter to win a copy of Mary's novel, a Kindle, a Nook, or a Starbucks gift pack!

Application Steps:
Ask your spouse or a close friend this question (and be willing to hear the answer): "How have I been afraid to live freely today? How am I living caged?"

Journal about one thing that you keep rehashing from the past that you can't move beyond. At the end of your entry, write a prayer to Jesus, asking Him to shed light on the issue, then be brave and pray, "Jesus, please set me free from this pain."

Reflections:
Who in my life lives uncaged? What is it about him or her that inspires me?

What would my life look like today if I truly believed Jesus has uncaged me? How would I act? Think? What prevents me from being uncaged today?

Power Verses:
Isaiah 43:18-19, "Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland." (NIV)

Psalm 107:14-16, "He brought them out of darkness and the shadow of death, and burst their bonds apart. Let them thank the LORD for his steadfast love, for his wondrous works to the children of man! For he shatters the doors of bronze and cuts in two the bars of iron." (ESV)

Psalm 94:17, "If the LORD had not been my help, my soul would soon have lived in the land of silence" (ESV).

© 2011 by Mary DeMuth. All rights reserved.

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

[Judy Harder]

Elisha said, 'Go around and ask all your neighbors for empty jars. Don't ask for just a few.'" 2 Kings 4:3 (NIV 2011)

Problems. I prefer to keep them to myself. Being fiercely independent, my instinct is to slam the cellar door shut at the first sign of high winds. In other words, no one's getting in until the storm is past. I'll let God in, no problem. But you — I keep out.

Over the years, God has challenged me on this independent approach, calling it was it is: pride.

It's not overt arrogance, but by keeping others at a distance, it implies I'm all-sufficient and don't need your help. Plus, the insecure little girl in me worries that if you see weakness in my life, you'll question my competency. As so, I've kept to myself, creating a prideful façade of control.

That didn't work very well, however. Repeatedly, God has called me to a place of greater interdependence with others. He's worked miracles in my life when I've humbly asked for prayer. He's broken down walls of distance when I've allowed people to see the real me. I've seen His hand move at the request of my godly friends.

It's now obvious to me God designed us to work together. We are pieces of the same puzzle, and life makes more sense when we are connected.

There's a story in the Old Testament that shows God's plan for interdependence. It's found in the book of 2 Kings and concerns a widow who had a big problem. She needed resources, but the coin jar was empty. Her husband died, leaving her with no means of support, and a pile of debts she couldn't pay. Creditors demanded restitution. Since there was no money, they planned to take her children as slaves.

Desperate, she sought help from Elisha, a man known to be set apart for God. Elisha asked her to do something unusual: go to all her neighbors and request empty jars ... lots of them. Then, she was to return home, take what little oil she had left and pour it into the jars.

The widow did as Elisha instructed. When she returned home, she started pouring. As each jar filled, her sons brought her another. They filled every borrowed jar with oil. Elisha then told her to sell the oil, pay the creditors and live off the rest. She did.

What I love about this story is that the quantity of the miracle oil was in direct proportion to the number of neighbors she asked for help. If she had asked five neighbors, that's how much oil she would have had. Ten neighbors meant ten jars. And so on. The more people the widow asked for help, the greater God's provision.

There's another part of the story not told by the Bible passage, but I can't help but wonder if it happened. At some point, the widow would have returned the borrowed jars. When she did, I imagine she would have told each neighbor what God had done for her, and how that neighbor played a part in the miracle. What a testimony that must have been!

God could have worked a miracle in any way, but He chose to involve each member of that little neighborhood. I imagine they were never the same after being part of something so amazing.

This story speaks clearly to me. God often plans to meet my needs through others. Yet if I keep my problems to myself, I might hinder His plan to bless my friends and broadcast His faithfulness. I'm learning to deny the lies of a prideful spirit in exchange for a humble plea for help. I'm trading my fierce independence for God's plan of community.

Dear Lord, forgive me for the times I've kept to myself, believing I have everything necessary to solve my problems. In doing so, I may have missed Your plan for meeting my needs through others. Help me to identify pride and submit it to You. Help me to have a humble and teachable spirit. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
P31 Woman magazine

Visit Glynnis' blog for a discussion on pride, and a give-away of the Bible study she co-authored, "Welcome to Community."

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

Becoming More than a Good Bible Study Girl by Lysa TerKeurst

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:
Do you have a problem you've been keeping to yourself? Commit to telling one trustworthy friend and ask her to pray about it.

Reflections:
Why is it hard for many women to share their problems with others?

Is there pride that has kept me from experiencing true biblical community?

Power Verses:
Psalm 10:4, "In his pride the wicked man does not seek him; in all his thoughts there is no room for God." (NIV 2011)

James 5:16, "Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective." (NIV 2011)

© 2011 by Glynnis Whitwer. All rights reserved.

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

[Judy Harder]

UPDATED for Wednesday, August 3, 2011
     
August 3, 2011

Don't Throw Away Your Confidence
Renee Swope


"So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised." Hebrews 10:35-36 (NIV)

One night I was cleaning our kitchen and found this little rubber thingy on our countertop. It wasn't until after I threw it away that I realized it was the power button for our TV remote control. As I dug through the trash to find it, I regretted how quickly I'd thrown it away.

Then, as I reached to pull it out, I sensed God showing me that's how easily I throw away my confidence—without recognizing it.

It's usually very subtle. Sometimes I'll be thinking about something I want to do or sense God calling me to, and a feeling of uncertainty comes over me and whispers to my heart, You can't do that. You're not good enough. Out of the blue, I'll just get that awful, insecure feeling.

Too many times in the past I've gone along with it, tossing my confidence into the trash without even thinking.

For years, I didn't tell anyone about my lack of confidence because I figured if I told them all the reasons I doubted myself, they'd see my flaws and agree with me. Honestly, I was convinced I was the only one who struggled with doubt.

However, I didn't call it doubt. Maybe you don't either. Sometimes I called it worry—worry that I was going to disappoint someone, worry that I might make a mistake and get criticized for it, worry that I might start something but not be able to finish.

Other times I'd call it fear—fear that I wouldn't measure up, fear that I'd look stupid, fear that I'd look prideful thinking I could do something special for God. What I've realized over the past several years is that these feelings may end up as fear or worry, but their source is self-doubt.

Looking back, I see a pattern in my thinking that led to the pattern of my doubting.

As a child I thought I wasn't worth keeping. My insecurity kept me from riding the carousel at an amusement park, because I doubted my dad would wait for me. In school, I thought I wasn't smart enough. I avoided some great opportunities because they came with the risk of failure.

Even as a young bride, I doubted my worth in my husband's eyes. Although he gave me no reason to fear he'd ever leave me, our newlywed memories include a lot of arguments based on my insecurities.

What about you? Do you ever question your worth as a woman? How often do you agree with the whispers of self-doubt and throw away confidence that should be yours as a child of God?

I've learned to ask God to show me when I'm tempted to throw away my confidence and then depend on Him to help me throw away my insecurities instead. Want to join me? Let's hold onto God's promises and depend on His truth for the security we need and the confidence we long for:

• When self-doubt whispers, "I can't do that. I'm going to fail and look foolish." Throw away that lie and hold onto this truth (even say it out loud): "The Lord is my helper, I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?" (Hebrews 13:6, NIV 1984)

• When self-doubt whispers, "I'll never change." Throw away that lie away and claim this truth: "For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in [me] will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus." (Philippians 1:6, NASB)

• When self-doubt whispers, "This is too hard for me. I don't have what it takes to..." Throw away that lie away and hold onto this truth: "No, in all these things [I am] more than a [conqueror] through him who loved [me]." (Romans 8:37, NIV)

Lord, I want to become a woman with a confident heart in Christ. Will you help me recognize when I throw away my confidence, and remind me to throw away my insecurities instead? I want to persevere in Your truth so that when I have done Your will, I will receive what You have promised. When doubt or insecurity tells me I can't do something, I will remember that all things are possible to her who believes. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
We're celebrating the release of Renee's new book, A Confident Heart: How to Stop Doubting Yourself & Live in the Security of God's Promises.

Be sure to visit Renee's new website and enter to win a copy of her book, A Confident Heart as well as a gift card and her message on CD entitled, "Don't Throw Away Your Confidence."

Download Renee's Twenty Promises to Personalize — a list of powerful verses that have blanks inserted so you can personalize them for yourself and for others, too.

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. Therefore, we are extremely grateful for each and every purchase you make with us. Thank you!

Application Steps:
Take Renee's Doubt Index Analysis — a free quiz to help you see what makes you throw away your confidence, and how it affects you and your relationships.

Reflections:
"The more you reaffirm who you are in Christ, the more your behavior (and beliefs) will begin to reflect your true identity!" Dr. Neil T. Anderson

Power Verses:
Hebrews 10:39, "But we are not of those who shrink back and are destroyed, but of those who believe and are saved." (NIV 1984)

Mark 9:23, "'If you can?' said Jesus. 'Everything is possible for one who believes.'" (NIV)

© 2011 by Renee Swope. All rights reserved.

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





August 4, 2011

The Moment
Lysa TerKeurst


"And now I will show you the most excellent way. If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging symbol." 1 Corinthians 12:31b-13:1 (NIV)

So familiar can some of our relationships be, we forget. We rush. We assume. We feel like we have forever.

And feeling like we have forever cheapens the right now feelings.

Each morning I have a routine with my man. It's simple. Nothing profound. Nothing for which we'd ever stop and snap a picture.

It's just a moment.

He asks me to help him pick a tie. He then goes away to fuss with this fixture of his professional job. Soon, he returns with a flipped up collar and a pressed down, knotted tie. He needs gentle hands to fold the collar over. No, he doesn't need. He wants gentle hands to fold the collar over.

And I do.

It's just a moment.

But it's a moment we follow the excellent way mentioned in the verses above. And in the intersection of this moment we're establishing once again, "I love you. I love you too."

Now, please don't get an overly idyllic picture in your head of our marriage. Heavens, no. We have plenty of those "growth opportunity" moments too.

But this moment with the tie, it's like a spot of glue ever tightening the bond between us day by day. It's so simple and yet something I would miss with the deepest ache imaginable if today was the last of the moments.

If today.

Tears slip as I think about this. Dear God, help me think about this. Let me snap a hundred of these moments with the lens of my heart to be stored and appreciated and thought of as the great treasure they are.

Let my mind park there.

Let my heart relish there.

Let my mouth dare to whisper what a joy this is. "I love you. I love us. I love this moment each day."

No, our relationship isn't perfect. No relationship is perfect. We're two very strong willed people with vastly different approaches to life. And oh how easy it would be to list out all the differences. He likes the towel hanging in the same spot. I am more creative. But I stop the list here.

I stop because great love isn't two people finding the perfect match in one another.

Great love is two people making the choice to be a match.

A decision.

To fold his collar and snap the heart lens and find myself grateful to the point of tears.

Tears of relishing today are so much better than tears of what was missed.

It's just a moment.

Or is it?

Dear Lord, help me to appreciate each moment given to me. I want to park my mind on my daily moments I so often take for granted. Thank you for this joy so simple but so sweet. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
If you enjoy Lysa's devotions, you can sign up to receive daily notes of encouragement from her by clicking here. Just fill in your email address in the blue box on the right side of your screen.

Want more simple tips to improve your marriage? You'll want to read the marriage books Lysa has written — Capture His Heart (for wives to read) and Capture Her Heart (for husbands to read).

Lysa will be speaking in more than 40 cities this year. Click here to see her schedule. She would be honored to meet you.

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:
What are your 'if today' moments? Discuss them with your spouse, family, and friends, and relish these occasions together.

Reflections:
Dear God, help me think about the teachings in this devotion. Let me snap a hundred of my moments with the lens of my heart to be stored and appreciated and thought of as the great treasure they are. Great love is two people making the choice to be a match.

Power Verses:
1 Peter 4:8, "Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins." (NIV)

Hebrews 13:4a, "Marriage should be honored by all..." (NIV)

© 2011 by Lysa TerKeurst. All rights reserved.

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