Encouragement for Today

[Judy Harder]

December 15, 2008

Sitting in the Middle of My Mess

Glynnis Whitwer

"As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet listening to what he said." Luke 10:38-39 (NIV)

Devotion:

I tend to consider myself a "Martha" type personality. And I don't mean Martha Stewart. By this time in December, that Martha probably has her hand-made cards mailed out, 10 batches of candy made and gift-wrapped, and her entire home decorated.

No, I'm nothing like Martha Stewart. In fact, last year I didn't even manage to decorate the tree. It got put up and because it was pre-lit, it had lights. I managed to put a few gifts under it before Christmas. That only happened because my dear children kept looking at me with those big hopeful eyes, asking when I was going to wrap SOMETHING. But that was it.

Last Christmas ended one of the most stressful years of my life. I'm thankful nothing devastating happened to my family. But the demands on my time exceeded my available time. When that happens, I get behind ... on everything. So I spend lots of time just trying to keep my head above water.

Back to being a Martha. If you know the Luke chapter 10 story of Martha and her sister Mary, that's the Martha I'm talking about. And it's not a flattering comparison. That Martha had the privilege of hostessing Jesus. Jesus actually came to her house. Instead of sitting at His feet like her sister Mary did, Martha worked and actually complained to Jesus that Mary wasn't helping her enough.

Jesus gently chided Martha, and affirmed Mary's choice to sit and spend time with Him in the middle of all the work that had to be done. I remember the day clearly last December when I decided to follow Mary's example and sit in the middle of my mess to spend time with Jesus.

Normally, I feel as if everything has to be clean before I can "treat" myself to some down time. I believe I have to have the dishes clean, counters cleared, urgent emails addressed, laundry going, home-based business checked for orders, etc. Normally, by the time I've done all that, something else has demanded my attention, and my time with Jesus is neglected - much like what happened to Martha.

But not that day. That day I sat at the kitchen table and looked at my mess. It was big. There were papers strewn over every surface, a lunch box left on the counter from the day before, breakfast dishes everywhere, jackets from yesterday, blankets that had been left on the couch, dog fur forming balls, and the list went on. I had to fight my instinct to get up. And I won.

I sat in the middle of my mess, and spent time with Jesus. I pictured Him sitting across the table from me. It was pure pleasure ... and the mess amazingly faded from my view. My stress melted away, and I felt renewed.

This Christmas, whether you've gotten your house decorated or not, whether you've mailed out cards or not ... Jesus has come to your house for a visit. I had such a good time sitting in the middle of my mess with Jesus last year, I'm planning on doing it again. Will you join us?

Dear Heavenly Father, Thank You for sending Jesus to be a companion during my hectic days. Help me to remember that peace can only be found when I choose to set aside the pressing demands of my life, and quiet myself with You. Teach me to look for Jesus' presence in the middle of my mess. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

Can Martha Have a Mary Christmas? by Brenda Poinsett

Do You Know Jesus?

Homespun Memories for the Heart by Karen Ehman, Kelly Hovermale and Trish Smith

Visit Glynnis's blog

Application Steps: 

Identify 30 minutes sometime this week when you normally would be working -- then commit to spending that time with Jesus.

Reflections: 

What are some of the hurdles you face when trying to find a quiet time with God?

This month, what practices can you implement to recognize Jesus' presence in your home?

Power Verses:

Psalm 37:7a, "Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him ..." (NIV)

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

Colossians 3:15, "Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful." (NIV)

© 2008 by Glynnis Whitwer. All rights reserved.

Proverbs 31 Ministries

616-G, Matthews-Mint Hill Road

Matthews, NC 28105

www.proverbs31.org
 

[Judy Harder]

December 16, 2008

Are You Ready for the Holidays?

By Van Walton

"What matters is not your outer appearance... but your inner disposition."

1 Peter 3:1 (MSG)   

Devotion:

This year I am tempted to keep a close count of the number of times I hear the question, "Are you ready for the holidays?"

What does that mean exactly? If I were to guess what people mean when they ask one another if they are "ready for the holidays," I would say most are not talking about spiritual readiness. I bet what they typically mean is, "Have you made a list of all the stuff you need to do before the 25th and have you checked it off?"

Usually the answer that follows is a long list of to-do's before Christmas day. Baking, sending Christmas cards, buying and wrapping gifts, hiding presents from the children, or delivering them to neighbors, choir or play practice, preparing for guests, or preparing to travel. My list also often includes planning and attending parties, house cleaning, and finally -- my favorite -- decorating.

I wonder, if Jesus were making a holiday preparations list, what would He include? What if those who were there on Christ's birth day could advise us on getting ready for Christmas? What would be on their list?

Joseph might recommend we listen closely to the voice of God to prepare.

Mary may suggest we ponder the miracles of heaven.

Perhaps the angels would propose we sing about the King.

The shepherds may gently guide us to follow their act of worship.

Possibly the wise men would teach us to give Jesus our most valuable gifts.

The innkeeper may suggest "Hospitality: open your heart and home."

And Jesus' list would likely encourage us to be a light on the hill pointing the way for others to know Him.

Comparing my to-do list to the ones above, I wonder if I lived at that time, would I have missed Christ's birth? Would my busyness have kept me from slowing down to take time to worship in the stable? Unfortunately I have "missed" many Christmases in the here and now because I've not slowed down long enough to bow my knees and experience the miracle.

I want Christmas for my family to be more about an act of worship and awe than a frenzy to decorate, shop, and jump through the world's hoops. I don't want to miss the true reason we celebrate.

A few years ago I set out to purposefully plan the way I celebrate. As a result, my Christmases have become increasingly simpler and at the same time my heart has become increasingly more satisfied.

Are you ready for the holidays?

Father, Thank You for sending Your son to point the way to You. Please remind me that preparing my heart for You is more satisfying than any other preparations I could make. Simple and pure devotion to You is what makes this season so special. Help me balance my time and keep my focus on You this year. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

Advent: Making Christmas About Christ by Lisa Robertson

The Air I Breathe: Worship as a Way of Life by Louie Giglio

Visit Van's blog

Application Steps: 

In addition to reading the Christmas story in the New Testament click here to read about the prophecies that gave hope to the Old Testament generations.

Reflections: 

What traditions can I develop for myself and my family that will keep Jesus as the focal point of Christmas?

What holiday practices might I eliminate in order to create a more worshipful and meaningful Christmas?

Power Verses:

I Peter 3:15a, "But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord." (NIV)

2008 Van Walton. All rights reserved.

Proverbs 31 Ministries

616-G, Matthews-Mint Hill Road

Matthews, NC 28105

www.Proverbs31.org

[Judy Harder]

December 17, 2008

Four Special Gifts

Tracie Miles

"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." John 3:16 (NIV)

Devotion:

I love everything about the holiday season, and Christmas morning is no exception. As I watch my family members excitedly unwrap their gifts, I find myself truly understanding the meaning of the phrase, "It is better to give than to receive."

As much as I love giving gifts, I admit that I love receiving them too! I can't help but be excited about a pretty box with a big bow with my name scribbled on the tag. Recently I began thinking about all the gifts that God gives me throughout the year, and then realized that I often forget to thank Him for those gifts.

Our key verse today really wraps up the true meaning of Christmas. In this one little verse we are given four amazing gifts. Wouldn't it be wonderful if we got as excited about the gifts of God, as we do the gifts under our tree?

The first of these gifts is love. God loves us more than we can imagine - more than we can love our children, our spouses, or our family. He loves us with a measure of love we cannot understand. For some, the holidays are a difficult time. They may bring feelings of loneliness and being unloved more than any other time of the year. Through this verse, we learn the magnitude of God's love.

The second gift is His son; His only begotten son Jesus Christ. God not only gave Jesus in birth to live as man, but to die as man as well. He gave the gift of Jesus' life as our example, and the gift of payment for our sins through His death. He paid the ultimate penalty so that our slates are wiped clean in heaven.

The third is the gift of faith. We can believe in Him -- for life, for love, and for the power to overcome. Power to overcome even death. This gift requires trust, and helps us get through every day, every circumstance, and every period of trouble. It is a gift that offers a holy hand to hold and a holy shoulder to cry on. A gift that holds the answers of hope and joy.

The fourth and most precious gift is the gift of eternal life. This gift promises a secure future: a life after death, free of pain and suffering. It is a gift we do not deserve, can never repay, and will not fully understand or appreciate until we are face to face with Jesus for eternity.

If you handpicked a special gift for someone and they pushed it aside or discarded it, I imagine your feelings would be hurt, as would mine. I wonder how God feels when He gives mankind these four priceless gifts and so many choose not to accept them?

As we celebrate the holidays, we'll get excited about presents, even though eventually most of those gifts will be forgotten, broken, or discarded. But God's gifts never expire, never spoil, never break, and never perish. The gifts of heavenly love, a Savior, faith and abundant eternal life are given to each one of us. We have the choice to unwrap and enjoy them or push them aside.

God has four special gifts for you this holiday, and on the tag your name is written in red. Will you remember to unwrap these gifts this season?

Dear Lord, Forgive me for taking for granted the amazing gifts that You have blessed me with in life, and for eternity. I praise You for who You are, and for being so willing to pour Your gifts into my life when I humbly reach out to You. Help me remember that You truly are the reason for this season. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

Do You Know Him?

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

Unwrapping His Christmas Presence message on CD or DVD by Renee Swope

For more holiday encouragement, visit Tracie's blog

Application Steps: 

Wrap four empty boxes in red, and on the gift tags write "From God." Put them under your tree to help you remember the most special gifts this Christmas.

If you never have accepted Jesus as your Savior, click here to find out how you can open and accept His special gifts today?

Reflections: 

Am I more concerned with about sharing gifts from the store, or sharing the gifts of God?

Power Verses:

Romans 5:6-8, "You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous man, though for a good man someone might possibly dare to die. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." (NIV)

Isaiah 1:18, "Come now, let us reason together," says the LORD. "Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool." (NIV)

© 2008 by Tracie Miles. All rights reserved.

Proverbs 31 Ministries

616-G, Matthews-Mint Hill Road

Matthews, NC 28105

www.proverbs31.org

[Judy Harder]

December 18, 2008

Gold, Incense, and Myrrh

Marybeth Whalen

"On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold and of incense and of myrrh."

Matthew 2:11 (NIV)

Devotion:

Whether you grew up in church or not, you've probably heard the story of the three wise men placing gifts before the baby Jesus, throwing their own little royal baby shower. Christmas carols tell of it and many a Christmas pageant has featured children with crowns askew, tottering in with their royal gifts.

Yet far from soft blue blankets and a selection of baby toys, these three kings brought seemingly odd gifts for the tiny Savior. They placed at His feet gold, frankincense and myrrh. The Bible doesn't tell us what Mary and Joseph did with Jesus' gifts, but I have to wonder. Unless she understood what they meant, I can almost picture Mary saying, "Wow, umm, thanks. I know just where I'll put these!"

I recently learned that each of these gifts has a symbolic meaning. When we study these meanings, the wise men's gifts take on much greater significance, a significance that is at once sobering and amazing.

Gold has always been a symbol of royalty. This gift signaled the wise men's understanding of who this child was, and how we should receive Him. Because of this child, we are transformed from lowly paupers to royalty seated with Christ (Ephesians 2:6). He had to leave the perfection and grandeur of heaven in order to walk among us, trading His royalty for a time, but never losing His deity.

Incense was a symbol of His purity. Because He was born sinless and lived a perfect life, Jesus was that perfect lamb, without blemish, offered up for our sins. Incense was used as a fragrant offering to God. But the beauty of the scent couldn't be released without being touched by fire. Jesus' life became a fragrant offering through the flames of affliction. And in His death, we receive His purity.

Myrrh symbolized death, as it was used for embalming in those times. Nothing says "congratulations on the birth of your baby" like a little symbolic death! As these men laid this odd collection of gifts at the feet of this child, a little shiver had to have run down His mother's spine when that last one was placed before Him. Already Lord? She had to be thinking. Do I have to start letting Him go already? But I suspect Mary knew that to accomplish His purposes on earth, Jesus' life had to end. And now as we seek to follow Him, our lives have to end as He asks us to die to self and to take up our cross and follow Him.

Have you ever asked yourself why the wise men chose those gifts? While we will never know for sure this side of heaven, I think it's because they listened to God. He directed them to bring these gifts as an outward statement of Jesus' ultimate purpose. Each one points to suffering and death that ultimately leads to transformation. Jesus didn't come to earth to be born, He came to earth to die so we could be reborn.

This Christmas I pray we keep our hearts focused on the meaning in the wise men's gifts -- and give our lives to Him, just as He gave His life to us.

Dear Lord, I praise You for being willing to come here, be born in a stable and endure an agonizing death so that I might be saved. I thank You for allowing me to know You, and I pray You would keep my heart focused on You. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

Do you know this sweet Savior?

A Recipe for Christmas Joy (e-book) by Marybeth Whalen

Pursuing the Christ: 31 Morning and Evening Devotions for Christmastime by Jennifer Kennedy Dean

Application Steps: 

In your personal quiet time, use your Bible concordance to look up additional verses on gold, purity, and dying to self. Write down a few and meditate on them this Christmas season.

Reflections: 

Have you always wondered about the gifts the wise men gave the baby Jesus? Does this explanation help you grasp what their gifts said about the recipient?

How can you live your life in such a way that it is a gift to Him?

Power Verses:

Job 23:10, "But he knows the way that I take; when he has tested me, I will come forth as gold." (NIV) 

I John 3:2, "Dear friends, now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when he appears, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is." (NIV)

Isaiah 53:12, "Therefore I will give him a portion among the great, and he will divide the spoils with the strong, because he poured out his life unto death, and was numbered with the transgressors. For he bore the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors." (NIV)

© 2008 by Marybeth Whalen. All rights reserved.

Proverbs 31 Ministries

616-G, Matthews-Mint Hill Road

Matthews, NC 28105

www.proverbs31.org

[Judy Harder]

December 19, 2008

The Beauty of It All

Rachel Olsen

"By wisdom a house is built, and through understanding it is established; through knowledge its rooms are filled with rare and beautiful treasures." Proverbs 24:3-4 (NIV)

Devotion:

Everywhere I go this month I take in the splendor of Christmas. Twinkling lights. Sparkly ornaments. Decorated cookies. Packages with shiny bows. Warm, spicy gourmand scents, mixed with the smell of fresh evergreen. A warm, crackling fire. Sounds of carols filling the air. Christmas is a feast for the senses!

Beauty pays a visit when we celebrate Christmas. Yet when I think back upon the story of Jesus' birth, there seems little lovely about it. The weariness of travel. No vacancy signs. A dusty manger. No running water. Smell of farm animals. The pain of childbirth. Damp, night air. Hay poking and scratching through makeshift blankets. I wonder then, why do we celebrate the day of Christ's birth with such decoration and adornment?

Then I notice how God marked the birth of His Son those thousands of years ago, and I begin to understand more about the ways we celebrate.

God heralded the arrival of His Son with a divine outdoor concert. According to the gospel writer Luke, shepherds sat on a hillside watching over their sheep that evening, when an angel of God appeared to them, surrounded by bright light. He said, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger" (Luke 2:10-12, NLT). Just as quickly as the first angel appeared, a large group of angels -- a whole choir full -- appeared. Praising God together, they declared, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests" (2:14, NLT). Suddenly our tradition of singing Christmas carols seems fitting.

God also announced the birth of His Son to the entire universe, according to the gospel writer Matthew, with a glorious new star in the sky. Millions of light years away, a massive ball of explosive gas began to blaze that day. Through it, God called wise men from far away lands to find and worship the true king. These wise men brought Him gifts: the spicy scents of frankincense and myrrh, as well as sparkling treasures of gold. Suddenly, the twinkling lights, the smell of fresh-baked gingerbread houses, and the carefully chosen gifts under the tree seem perfectly fitting.

In fact, the sharp contrast between our homes and towns at Christmas time and Jesus' first days on earth makes me realize just how humble Jesus is. It foreshadowed the entire life and ministry of this man who lived quite simply on earth, yet reigns as King of heaven.

I'm certain the most beautiful thing about that night centuries ago was the radiance that surely shined from the newborn cheeks, and twinkled through the precious eyes of that promised child. Yes, Beauty paid a visit that first Christmas, and He remains with us today. How glorious that we have become this king's temple. How splendid that our hearts become His majestic throne -- with no lights, ornaments or holly branches required.

I think I'm beginning to understand the beauty of it all.

Dear Lord, Give me eyes to see and ears to hear all the beauty that You bring into my world. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

Do You Know Jesus?

Visit Rachel's blog -- where she is posting daily advent readings.

A Recipe for Christmas Joy (e-book) by Marybeth Whalen
Creation Globe for children.

Application Steps: 

Let the Christmas decorations you see carry your mind back to that night some two thousand years ago, and reflect on the beauty of God's plan for salvation.

Reflections: 

How can I allow the beauty of Christ to shine through me today?

Power Verses:

Ephesians 4:7-8, "But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it. This is why it says: "When he ascended on high, he led captives in his train and gave gifts to men." (NIV) 

Ecclesiastes 3:11-14, "Yet God has made everything beautiful for its own time. He has planted eternity in the human heart, but even so, people cannot see the whole scope of God's work from beginning to end. So I concluded there is nothing better than to be happy and enjoy ourselves as long as we can. And people should eat and drink and enjoy the fruits of their labor, for these are gifts from God." (NLT)

© 2008 by Rachel Olsen. All rights reserved.
Proverbs 31 Ministries

616-G, Matthews-Mint Hill Road

Matthews, NC 28105

www.proverbs31.org

[Judy Harder]

December 22, 2008

A Christmas Solo

Zoe Elmore

"For to us a Child is born, to us a Son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." Isaiah 9:6 (NKJ)

Devotion:

Though I'm an untrained singer, I had the privilege of singing a solo in our church's annual Christmas program for over ten years. You can imagine how thrilling it was to hear the orchestra and one hundred voices behind me as I sang "Oh Holy Night." Each and every time I sang that song, I was transported into the presence of the Lord. I felt as if my feet were leaving the ground as each note climbed higher and higher until the final crescendo. I think I now understand why angels fly as they live in God's presence!

This wonderful annual experience came to an abrupt end several years ago after an illness and medical condition removed my ability to sing. My ability, but not my desire! While my mouth can no longer sing praises very loud, my heart still soars as I squeak out the words to Handle's "Messiah." I still love to sing spiritual songs, especially those of the Christmas season.

The Lord knows this, and has given me one of the sweetest gifts I've ever received: a new inward heart-song of worship and awe. Even with such a tender and lovely present from the Holy Spirit, I'm amazed at how easily I become distracted by the shopping, parties and food of this season. The "need" to decorate and bake often shouts louder than my need to sing my heart-song. While none of these holiday preparations are bad in themselves, they can easily overshadow the celebration of the birth of Jesus. The trimmings and trappings can far too easily eclipse the true meaning of this marvelous season, stealing my new heart-song and silencing my worship.

This Christmas I have made a commitment to concentrate on celebrating the name of Jesus by continuously singing my heart-song. It is the Name we bless in times of thanksgiving; the Name we call upon in times of trouble; and, the Name that brings us the love, joy, peace and salvation we need at all times.

Will you join me in making the name of Jesus the centerpiece of your Christmas celebration this year? In the midst of the songs your mouth will sing, ask the Holy Spirit to give you the gift of a new song in your heart. A new heart-song celebrating the powerful, lovely, wonderful, life-giving, everlasting Name of Jesus! Sing forth praises to the name of Jesus today!

Dear Lord, I bow before You as my Savior, Lord and King. I ask You to help me celebrate Your presence in my life with a new heart-song of worship with You as the centerpiece. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

Do you know Jesus by name?

Celebrating a Christ-Centered Christmas by Sharon Jaynes

31 Days of Praise by Ruth Myers

For more ideas of celebrating Christ at Christmas visit Zoë's blog

Application Steps: 

What can I change about my Christmas celebration to foster a new heart-song of worship?

Reflections: 

How can I encourage my family to celebrate this Holy season with a heart-song of their own?

Power Verses:

1 John 5:11, "And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son." (NIV)

Psalm 40:3, "He has put a new song in my mouth - Praise to our God..." (NKJV)

© 2008 by Zoe Elmore. All rights reserved.

Proverbs 31 Ministries

616-G, Matthews-Mint Hill Road

Matthews, NC 28105

www.proverbs31.org

[Judy Harder]

December 23, 2008

Christmas JOY

Marybeth Whalen

"You will make known to me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; In Your right hand there are pleasures forever."

Psalm 16:11 (NASB)

Devotion:

Presents to buy. Presents to wrap. Groceries to buy. Parties to attend. People to see. Wishes to fill. So much to do, so little time! We might have begun the Christmas season with the intent of finding joy this year, yet lost our good intentions somewhere between our children's case of the "gimmies" and the crowded parking lots at the mall. Where is the joy we sing about in all those Christmas carols? Where is the Christmas spirit we are supposed to have?

As our verse tells us today, it's not in any of those things that fill our days this time of year. It's not in the candy-streaked faces of our little children. It's not in the guilt we feel that we can't possibly see all the family we want to. It's not even in those moments of giving or serving our families. We can't manufacture joy, or create eternal pleasures, though we try so hard to. Oh, we might get glimpses of joy--but we won't experience the fullness of joy unless we immerse ourselves in God's presence.

You might be thinking, How can I do that? You haven't seen my "to do" list!

Might I offer a suggestion? Tomorrow morning, set your alarm for fifteen minutes earlier. Just fifteen. Then turn to a psalm, or a chapter in one of your favorite books of the Bible. I love the richness of Isaiah, the encounters with Jesus in John, and the wisdom in Proverbs. Ask God to help you choose what you most need to hear from Him. Then get out a journal or spiral bound notebook and write out some concerns you are having, jot down a verse that meant something to you. This is yours, so there is no right or wrong way to do it!

Next, spend a few minutes praying, marking the beginning of a conversation that will go on throughout the day. Then go and begin your day, taking God's presence with you. When stress mounts, ask Him for peace. When chaos reigns, ask Him for clarity. When anger boils, ask Him for gentleness.

I am not promising a perfect life will result. Nor am I promising instant change. What I am promising is that slowly but surely, as you build on this habit, your time with the Lord will increase out of desire for more, and your dependence on Him will too. This is not something you do out of guilt or obligation. It's not something you do to be a "good Christian," scanning the ceiling as you dutifully have your quiet time, hoping He sees you and pours out His blessings in return. Instead this is about experiencing what it means to have a "friend that sticks closer than a brother" (Proverbs 18:24, NIV). It is about knowing the joy that is only found in His presence, because you carry it with you--at Christmas, and all through the year.

Dear Lord, Thank You for helping me realize that I can't make joy happen this Christmas. Help me in the coming days to intentionally enter into Your presence, and help me find true joy when I do. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

A Recipe for Christmas JOY (e-book) by Marybeth Whalen

Share your story about spending time with God. Visit Marybeth's blog.

Walk with Me Today, Lord: Inspiring Devotions for Women by Emilie Barnes
Application Steps: 

Spend some time today planning for your time with God tomorrow. Anticipate and prepare for it. Gather your Bible, your notebook, a pen, a candle, and any other supplies you might want to have. Have everything in one place, waiting for your date with God. You might even want to have a special tea or flavored coffee creamer waiting for you, to make your time with God even sweeter!

Reflections: 

If you are already beginning your days with God, yet still feeling overwhelmed, have you spent time praying about it? Ask God to show you ways that you can experience His presence - even when the kids are crying and the bank account is strained. Jesus promised us that in this world, we would have trouble (John 16:33, NIV), but He also promised us that He would send a Comforter to be with us (John 14:16, KJV) . Do you need to be comforted today? Ask God to supply this need, and trust Him to do it!

Power Verses:

Psalm 89:15-16, "Blessed are those who have learned to acclaim you, who walk in the light of your presence, O LORD. They rejoice in your name all day long; they exult in your righteousness." (NIV)

Hosea 6:2, "After two days he will revive us; on the third day he will restore us, that we may live in his presence." (NIV) 

© 2008 by Marybeth Whalen. All rights reserved.
Proverbs 31 Ministries

616-G, Matthews-Mint Hill Road

Matthews, NC 28105

www.proverbs31.org

[Judy Harder]

December 24, 2008

Will They Know What it Cost?

Glynnis Whitwer

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

My daughter Cathrine went on a field trip to the Grand Canyon last year with her fourth grade class. As I picked her up upon her return, she couldn't wait to show me an adorable little stuffed brown bear. She started to say that it was for everyone, and then her words got jumbled up as she tried to explain how she ran out of money when she was trying to buy gifts. I could see she was distressed but wasn't sure why.

To understand the rest of the story, it might help to know that Cathrine was born in Africa and experienced deprivation of every sort for the first 11 years of her life. Although she has made remarkable gains, she struggles with communication and math - especially money.

After we got home that night, I understood what Cathrine was trying to tell me about the bear. She had originally taken $20 of her own money to buy a souvenir of some kind. Before buying herself something, however, she wanted to buy some small gifts. So she started with two of her teachers and bought them each a small ring with the first initial of their last names. I looked at the price on the rings and saw each was $3.99. Times that by two, add tax, and Cathrine would have been left with $11 for other gifts and herself.

I imagine she stood at the gift store counter bewildered by what she had just done. She probably was embarrassed to ask any of her classmates for help. And maybe the teacher wasn't around. There she stood with just over half of her money left, and three brothers and a sister left to buy for. She decided to get a group gift, and that's where the bear came in.

Standing in our kitchen, looking at the three items she purchased
I smiled brightly and told her how everyone was going to love their gifts, and what wonderful purchases she made. She smiled back and the night ended well.

The next morning as she wrapped up the little rings, I kept thinking about those two teachers who were going to receive a gift. All they would see is a little silver ring. They are wonderful women and I knew they would be very loving and appreciative. But would they truly understand the sacrifice Cathrine made?

Would they understand that their gifts cost Cathrine half of what she had? Will they understand the frustration and worry it caused Cathrine as she realized she didn't have enough to buy her family gifts? Would they treasure those little rings, or would they put them in a drawer with gifts from other students throughout the year?

As I pondered these thoughts, I considered a gift I was given 2000 years ago as God sent His son into the world as a baby, knowing Jesus would die on a cross for me. Do I truly understand the sacrifice of that gift? Do I understand the anguish God the Father must have felt? Do I treasure this gift, or do I take it for granted?

Christmas is a time for celebration. It is also a time to remember God's sacrifice. For it is in understanding the cost, that we fully appreciate the gift.

Dear Heavenly Father, I thank You this Christmas season for the gift of Your son, Jesus. Help me to fully grasp what this gift must have cost You. As I give and receive gifts this month, help me to remember that the relationship I enjoy with You, and the eternal life I look forward to, came at a great cost. For that I am truly thankful. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

Do you know Jesus?

A Thankful Heart by Carole Lewis

Provide educational opportunities and important life skills to a child in need through Compassion International

Visit Glynnis' blog

Application Steps: 

List one thing you can do this week as a way of saying "thank you" to God for the gift of Jesus.

Reflections: 

Have you ever given a gift to someone, only to have them not appreciate it? How did you feel?

Consider what it cost God to send us Jesus. What do you think was the greatest sacrifice?

Power Verses:

John 4:10, "Jesus answered her, 'If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water.'" (NIV)

2 Corinthians 9:15, "Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!" (NIV)

Ephesians 2:8, "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith - and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God." (NIV)

© 2008 by Glynnis Whitwer. All rights reserved.

Proverbs 31 Ministries

616-G, Matthews-Mint Hill Road

Matthews, NC 28105

www.proverbs31.org

[Judy Harder]

December 25, 2008

The Ultimate Gift

By Gina Parcells, She Speaks! Graduate

"... God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son." 1 John 5:11b (NASB)

Devotion:

Christmas day at my house had become all about the presents. The décor, the shopping, the parties, the tree...it all culminated with those gifts when it should be culminating with the Gift. Something needed to change.

What can I do to see Jesus as a gift, and to help my family see Him as well? I wondered. A light bulb went on in my head, about the same time the light strand went out on my tree, and a plan was birthed.

Phase one: Baby Jesus was removed from the displayed nativity set. He was carefully boxed and wrapped in my fanciest paper, intentionally labeled with a specific name, and gingerly hidden under the myriad of gifts at the foot of our tree.

Phase two: During our family gift exchange on Christmas morning, the disguised gift was handed to my unsuspecting daughter, the named recipient, just one of her many gifts. It could have been an I-pod or a sweater or another book...after all, there was no host of angels announcing the valuable contents. But knowing what I knew, I watched with great anticipation as she opened it.

Phase three: A bewildered look came across her face. Haley didn't speak. I asked, "Haley, what did you get?"

"I got Jesus."

An entire family discussion ensued as we discussed the ultimate Gift in the midst of all of our other presents. We compared the gift of Jesus with other gifts that would wear out, that would be outgrown, and that would eventually lose appeal.

We began to ask and answer lots of questions such as:

What is a gift? What is the purpose of a gift? What can we know about the giver of the gift? Why might the giver choose to give a gift to you specifically?

Together, we came up with truths about God...that He gave us the Gift that we need, that we want, and that we could never afford to get for ourselves. He wrapped that Gift in a blanket and gave -- voluntarily, sacrificially, and lovingly -- to each one of us, the named recipients of His greatest Gift.

We've invited Jesus back into Christmas to take His place as the perfect Gift that never stops giving. I can hardly wait to experience today's conversation as a new family member opens the box and announces, "I got Jesus!"

Dear Lord, Too many times I have excluded You from my Christmas and been satisfied with presents and stuff. Let me not be content until I experience the gift of You in my heart. Cause me to see You as the ultimate Gift. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

Have You Received the Ultimate Gift?

Homespun Memories from the Heart by Karen Ehman, Kelly Hovermale and Trish Smith

You are Special Today Plate

Listen to today's radio show for more ideas of celebrating Christmas all year!

Application Steps: 

Try wrapping up your nativity baby Jesus for a family member or a friend, and discuss the Gift He is during your gift exchange.

Print and store this page with your nativity set as a reminder next year to value Jesus as a gift.

Reflections: 

Have you "got Jesus?"

How can I help my family to view Jesus as a gift?

Power Verses:

Isaiah 9:6, "For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us; and the government will rest on His shoulders; and His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace." (NASB)

John 3:16, "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life." (NASB)

Romans 6:23b, "... the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." (NASB)

Proverbs 31 Ministries

616-G, Matthews-Mint Hill Road

Matthews, NC 28105

www.Proverbs31.org

[Judy Harder]

December 26, 2008

Treasured Thoughts of a Mother

By Wendy Pope

"But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart."
Luke 2:19 (NIV)

Devotion:

I remember it like it was yesterday: the long-awaited arrival of my first born. Conception had evaded us for two years, so when she finally arrived and was placed in my arms, I could hardly contain myself. I counted all her fingers and toes, then inspected every inch of her soft, pink wrinkled skin.

Family and friends came from many miles away just to see our little one. As I stared at this long-awaited miracle I wondered about her life. What would it be like? The thoughts and emotions I felt were too much for words. I treasured these moments in my heart like another young mother I once read about.

This mother's name was Mary and the name of her long-awaited miracle was Jesus. Her baby was born in a stable. People heard of his birth and traveled many miles just to see her little one. She must have wondered what his life would be like. Her thoughts and emotions were too much for words. She treasured and pondered them in her heart.

Mary, a young teenage girl, was chosen to be the mother of the Savior of the world. I have often wondered exactly what Mary knew about her son's future. Did she know he would heal the sick and raise the dead? Did she know that he would calm storms and feed the hungry? I am not sure what she knew, but according to scripture she got a glimpse into to her son's future as well as her own when she and Joseph, following Jewish custom, brought the newborn into the temple to be consecrated to the Lord. A man by the name of Simeon was in the temple that day and was moved by the Spirit to speak prophecy over the infant child.

He spoke, "And Simeon blessed them and said to Mary His mother, "Behold, this Child is appointed for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and for a sign to be opposed--and a sword will pierce even your own soul--to the end that thoughts from many hearts may be revealed" (Luke 2:34-35, NASB).

I can't even imagine what this young mother thought as she heard these words prophesied about her tiny miracle. How does a mother respond to hearing the news that a sword would pierce her soul, the very soul that days earlier had treasured the wonders of the birth of her first born son? Did Mary spend her entire life wondering, "Is today the day my soul will be pierced?"

Her soul was pierced 33 short years after she pondered the first moments of her son's life. Her soul was pierced on a hill called Calvary where she was an eyewitness to the purpose of her son's life. The events that took place on that hill tell us what her son's life was all about: He was born to die. The purpose of His life was to give my life and your life purpose. For a moment, will you treasure these thoughts and ponder them in your heart?

How will you respond to the treasured thought that Jesus' death means life for you? Perhaps your thoughts are leading you to desire to call Him Savior for the first time. If so, would you let us know?

Dear Lord, I want to live a life of gratitude. Thank You for the sacrifice You made to make sure that I would spend eternity with You. Consume my thoughts today. Awaken my soul to new delight in You. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

Unwrapping His Christmas Presence CD by Renee Swope

i am not but i know I AM by Louie Giglio

Join Wendy to talk more about this topic together on her blog.

Application Steps: 

Re-read Luke's account of the birth of our Savior. Take your time. Treasure up all the details of the story and ponder them in your heart.

Reflections: 

What does Jesus' birth mean to me?

What is my reaction to God when He calls me to do a God-sized task?

Power Verses:

Isaiah 9:6, "For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." (NIV)

Luke 1:29-33, "Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. But the angel said to her, 'Do not be afraid, Mary, you have found favor with God. You will be with child and give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever; his kingdom will never end.'" (NIV)

Luke 2:11-12, "Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger." (NIV)

2008 Wendy Pope. All Rights Reserved.

Proverbs 31 Ministries

616-G, Matthews-Mint Hill Road

Matthews, NC 28105

www.Proverbs31.org