Girlfriends in God

[Judy Harder]

March 3, 2014
Raising Your Expectations
Sharon Jaynes

Today's Truth

I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. (John 10:10, NIV)

Friend to Friend

When I was in my early twenties, I did not have great expectations for what my marriage would be like, if I ever walked the aisle at all. My parents had a tumultuous relationship from my earliest remembrance. Cycles of heated arguments and physical violence followed by silence and passive aggression were as predictable as the seasons. The atmosphere in our home was tense. It was as if I lived on an earthquake fault line, never knowing when the "big one" was going to hit. There were many "big ones."

I became a Christian when I was fourteen and resolved that if I ever got married, it would be to a man who loved Jesus with all his heart. Through the years, I dated many Christian young men. In my young mind, most of them were not very much fun.

So I had a conversation with God that went something like this: "OK God, if I ever get married, it will be to a Christian man. I'm committed to that. I won't give a guy a second glance unless he is a man who loves You with all his heart. It is not enough for him to say that he is a Christian. I want to see it in the way he lives his life, the way he uses his words, and the way he relates to other people. I'm going to pay attention to what he laughs at, what he watches on television, and how he handles anger. I know what I'm asking here. I know what I'm getting into. I realize that I most likely won't feel very passionate about this guy. I know that my life will probably be rather dull, boring, and lackluster. But that's OK. I'm holding out for a Christian man, no matter how humdrum and ho-hum he may be. If I like him pretty well, that's enough for me."

Oh my goodness! Talk about low expectations! I'm sure God got a big kick out of my request.

Here's what happened several years after that "prayer."  When I was twenty-two, I returned to college to further my education. A young man from my hometown had a Bible study at his apartment and invited me to attend. When I walked in, I saw a young dental student sitting cross-legged on the floor and leaning up against the wall. His dark chocolate eyes looked up at me as he said, "Hi." I melted in a puddle.

After a few weeks, Steve finally asked me out on a date. But the venue of our rendezvous confirmed what I had expected all along.

"There is a missionary from Jackson, Mississippi speaking over at Murphy Hall," he explained. "I'd like to go hear him. Would you like to go with me?"         

Well that certainly lined up with my expectations! Steve was handsome; no doubt about that. He was a Christian: that was for sure. But going to hear a missionary on our first date? He was going to be boring after all. But hey, what did I expect? (Now remember, I was young. I love missionaries! I am one! Just keeping it real.)

When he came to pick me up for our date, I wasn't quite ready. My apartment mate welcomed him and directed him to the sofa to wait. While he perused the scattered magazines on the coffee table, some of my favorite music played on the stereo. In the South, we call it beach music. It's a type of 60s R&B Motown music.

When I finally emerged from my primping, Steve looked up and asked, "Do you like that kind of music?"

"Sure do," I replied. (I must say I said it with an attitude of "and you gotta problem with that?")

"I do too," Steve said. "I have an entire collection. Do you know how to Shag (a traditional Southern dance similar to a slow version of the Swing)?

I think I heard God laugh.

"I've been dancing the Shag since I was in the fifth grade," I said.

"Let's see if we do it the same way," he said as he grabbed my hand.

For twenty minutes, we separated and came together as if we had been dancing together all our lives. He held my hand up and I spun under. He pulled me in and then rolled me out like a scroll. His shuffle kick mirrored my own.

You know what? We did go and hear the missionary on that crisp fall night in 1979. And afterwards, we went to a favorite college hangout and danced until the doors closed. We had fun, and we haven't stopped having fun yet.

We have grown in God's grace, and we've graced the dance floor. Steve is the mostfunnest guy I have ever known, and he loves the Lord with all his heart.

And to think I actually was ready to settle for a just a nice Christian guy. God exceeded my expectations beyond all I ever could have asked or imagined.

But this isn't just about my love story with Steve. It is about my love story with Jesus.It is about yours too. And like my silly twenty-something prayer for a mediocre-but-nice husband, I fear we have lowered our expectations in our relationship with God.

He longs for an intimacy with us that ushers in a deep abiding joy, but I'm afraid we've settled for simply nice.

Are you ready to raise your expectations in your relationship with Jesus? Oh sister, He got so much to show you, to tell you, to share with you. Don't settle for "just nice." Jesus is much more exciting than that!

Let's Pray

Dear Jesus, forgive me for having such low expectations in our relationship. I know that You came to give me abundant life, not a so-so life. Today, I'm raising my expectations of life to line up with Your word. I'm expecting the abundant life that You came to give!

In Your Name,

Amen.

Now It's Your Turn

Look up Zephaniah 3:17 and enjoy!

God wants you to enjoy Him today! Look for moments of sudden glory where he makes His presence known and then tell me about it. Click over to my Facebook page and join me by saying, "I'm raising my expectations and looking for God's blessings today!"

More from the Girlfriends

Do you long to feel close to God but sense there's something missing? That you've missed that mysterious formula to make it happen? Do have a glory ache–a persistent longing to experience God's presence and working in your life, but not quite sure how to make it happen? If so, my book, A Sudden Glory: God's Lavish Response to Your Ache for Something More, is just for you. Join me and discover how to erase the lines between the secular and the sacred to experience a deeper, more intimate relationship with God than ever before. While you're there, you can download a free chapter or watch a video book trailer. Also, remember, we're making 2014 a year of prayer! Check out Praying for Your Husband from Head to Toe and sign up for the 30-Day Prayer Dare on my site as well.

Seeking God?
Click here to find out more about
how to have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.


Girlfriends in God
P.O. Box 725
Matthews, NC 28106
info@girlfriendsingod.com
www.girlfriendsingod.com

[Judy Harder]

March 4, 2014
Patience Pays Off
Mary Southerland

Today's Truth

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

Friend to Friend

Patience is not one of my greatest strengths. In fact, I tend to live each day with a schedule in mind - an agenda by which to live that day and several goals I need to meet before the day's end.

God does have a sense of humor.

I can't tell you how many times my schedule falls apart, the agenda is completely forgotten, and I have to move today's goals to tomorrow's list of things to do. I am learning that when God wants to build a certain quality in my life, He puts me in the opposite circumstance. For example, if God wants me to be more patient, He arranges the hours and minutes of my day in ways that demand patience.

What is patience? To be patient is to have the ability to endure, but it doesn't stop there. Patience must also have the capacity to be wronged and not retaliate. In other words, patience is love persevering and love waiting. We are not only to be patient in the way we face difficult situations but in our relationships as well. That just about covers life, doesn't it?

One of the most powerful Bible passages on patience and perseverance is found in the book of James. "Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him." Do you want to be blessed? Stand firm in your trial. Do you want to be rewarded? Stand firm in that tough circumstance. Be patient – because patience really does pay off.

God promises blessings and rewards to those who persevere and stand firm in hard times, but the reason we can stand firm is because He loves us unconditionally and promises to walk with us through every dark moment life will bring.

Nothing touches our life that does not pass through God's hand, with His permission.

Remember the Bible story of the man named Job? Job was a faithful servant of God, strong in his faith and unwavering in his obedience to God. Satan didn't like it. In fact, he went to God and asked permission to test Job. I love that truth! The devil had to go to God like an errand boy in order to get permission to touch His child, Job. Satan was convinced that if Job lost everything God had given him - his health, his family, and his possessions - if Job lost everything, he would curse God and follow Satan. God told the serpent to give it his best shot, convinced that Job would persevere. Satan stripped Job of his health, his possessions, his wealth and his family – everything Job held dear. Job stood firm.

Every trial must come through His love but every trial has a purpose. Every pain has a purpose, every ordeal contains a seed of victory, and there is a promise for every problem you and I will ever face. The psalmist writes, "The LORD is my strength, my shield from every danger. I trust in him with all my heart. He helps me, and my heart is filled with joy" (Psalm 28:7).

Patience pays off in many ways, but one of the greatest rewards of patience is joy. Joy is a deeply rooted confidence that God is in control. Warren Wiersbe writes, "When God permits His children to go through the furnace, He keeps his eye on the clock and His hand on the thermostat!" God will never let us face more than we can handle with His help. Hebrews 12:12 says it so well: "So take a new grip with your tired hands and stand firm on your shaky legs." I have been there, done that and can relate to a weary heart and shaky legs. Can't you?

An evangelist told the story of his friend who, during the depression, lost a job, a fortune, a wife and a home, but he held onto his faith because it was all he had left. One day, the man stopped to watch some men building a stone church. One of the workers was chiseling a triangular piece of rock. "What are you going to do with that?" asked the friend. The workman said, "Do you see that little opening way up there near the spire? Well, I'm shaping this down here so that it will fit up there." Tears filled the eyes of the broken man as he walked away. It seemed that God had spoken through the workman to explain the trials of his life." God is using the trials here on earth to refine and purify us. In Colossians 1:11, the apostle Paul writes, "God will strengthen you with his own great power so that you will not give up when troubles come, but you will be patient!"

No matter where you are today, where you have been, or what you are facing tomorrow, be patient, knowing your God will strengthen you to stand firm.

Let's Pray

Father, please forgive me when I am impatient. Help me see You at work in the trial and choose to depend on Your strength instead of my own. Help me see Your purpose and plan, but even if I can't understand it all, help me to stand firm in faith. Lord, make me more patient so that others will see You in me.

In Jesus' name,

Amen.

Now It Is Your Turn

Read Romans 12:12 "Be patient when trouble comes." What trouble in your life today requires patience? Are you willing to choose faith and obedience by trusting God with that trouble? 

Read 1 Thessalonians 5:14 "Be patient with everyone." What relationship in your life demands patience from you? Evaluate how patient you have been in this relationship. What one thing do you need to change in order to choose obedience to God as you relate to this person?

Read Ephesians 4:2 "Always be humble, gentle and patient." Notice that patience is listed along with two other important qualities that God wants to see in us. How do you think patience relates to humility and gentleness?

[Judy Harder]

March 5, 2014
When You Feel Far From God
Sharon Jaynes

Today's Truth

Jesus said: On that day you will realize that I am in my Father, and you are in me, and I am in you. (John 14:20, NIV)

Friend to Friend

Do you ever feel far away from God, or that He is far away from you? If you're like most people, then I bet the answer is yes. So let's take a look at those "feelings."

You are a triune being with a body, soul, and spirit. Within your soul you have a mind, will, and emotions. That's where those "feelings come from." And if you are like most people, sometimes you feel closer to God than other times. But are you? Really?

Sometimes I feel closer to my husband than others times. But that doesn't mean I'm any less married at some times more than others. I usually feel closer to him after we've enjoyed a fun time together, been especially intimate, or gone through a struggle where we've locked arms and walked through the struggle together.

It's not that much different in my relationship with God. I might feel closer to Him when we've had a good time together (as in worship service), been especially intimate spiritually (as in a morning quiet time), or gone through a struggle where we've locked arms and walked through the difficulty together (as in mourning the death of a loved one).

But just because I feel closer to God in a particular moment doesn't mean that I am. It is just a feeling. We know that we cannot have that giddy feeling about our spouse all the time. Then why do we think we have to have that with God?

Paul prayed for the Ephesians that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ would give them the Spirit of wisdom and revelation so that they could know him better ...that they might know the hope to which he had called them...(Ephesians 1:17-19). He prayed for the Colossians that they would know the mystery of God, namely, Christ in whom are hidden all the treasure of wisdom and knowledge" (Colossians 2:2-3). He did not pray that they would feel like they were close to God or feel the love of God. He prayed that they would know it.

Specifically, Paul prayed:

"I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. (How? Through faith.) And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know his love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God" (Ephesians 3:16-19 emphasis added).

Why do we experience times when we feel far from God? How can we feel far from God if His Holy Spirit lives in us? If you are in Christ and He is in you (John 14:20), why don't you feel Him at all times? Can you feel distant from your liver, from your kidney or from your pancreas? Being near to God, or rather feeling near to God is not a matter of proximity, as if one of us moved closer or further away. It is not a matter of a physical position, but it is a matter of our relational acuity. It is a spiritual receptivity, a spiritual awareness, and a spiritual acknowledgement of His presence.

Charles Spurgeon once said: "It may be that there are saints who are always at their best, and are happy enough never to lose the light of their Father's countenance. I am not sure that there are such persons...and I have not traversed that happy land. Every year of my life has had a winter as well as a summer, and every single day has its night...I confess that though the substance be in us, as in the teil-tree and the oak, yet we do lose our leaves, and the sap within us does not flow with equal vigor at all seasons."

God has promised He will never leave us, but we can feel far from Him when we ignore Him, live independently from Him, grow dissimilar from Him, or rush about expecting Him to tag along rather than move in union with Him.

So here's what I want you to do today, stand on what you know. "On that day," Jesus said, "You will realize that I am in my Father, and you are in me, and I am in you" (John 14:20 NIV). And friend, you can't get much closer than that.

And while your humanness falters between spiritual times of plenty and times of want, communion with God is always just a whisper away as you acknowledge His presence with you and in you.

Let's Pray

Dear LORD, I'll admit, sometimes I feel far from You. But today, I am not going to be a woman who is lead by her feelings. I am going to be a woman who stands on the truth of Your Word. I am in Jesus. He is in me. And we are both in You. Hallelujah.

In Jesus' Name,

Amen.

Now It's Your Turn

One of the best ways I know to reconnect with God when I feel disconnected is to listen to some great praise and worship music. So click over to www.youtube.com/gwensmithmusic and listen to my favorite recording artist!

After listening to Gwen's music, click over to my Facebook page and tell me your favorite Gwen Smith song. (Mine is Broken into Beautiful. And then there's All Generations. Oh, and Uncluttered. I'm having a hard time choosing one. Maybe you'll have an easier time. Good luck!)

More from the Girlfriends

Do you long to feel close to God but sense there's something missing? That you've missed that mysterious formula to make it happen? Do have a glory ache–a persistent longing to experience God's presence and working in your life, but not quite sure how to make it happen? If so, my book, A Sudden Glory: God's Lavish Response to Your Ache for Something More, is just for you. Join me and discover how to erase the lines between the secular and the sacred to experience a deeper, more intimate relationship with God than ever before. While you're there, you can download a free chapter or watch a video book trailer. Also, remember, we're making 2014 a year of prayer! Check out Praying for Your Husband from Head to Toe and sign up for the 30-Day Prayer Dare on my site as well.

[Judy Harder]

March 7, 2014
Add Life to Your Years
Gwen Smith

Today's Truth

In Him was life, and that life was the light of men. (John 1:4, NIV84)

Friend to Friend

One difficult morning seven years ago, I wanted to hurl my screaming alarm clock into an abyss. The warmth of my covers and the safety of sleep beckoned my heart to stay, linger and forget what lay ahead of me that day. On that afternoon, I would sing for the funeral of a precious 18-year-old family friend who had died in a tragic car accident.

Her name was Macie. She was a girl who lived life to enjoy life. She babysat my kids and would often catch a ride home from church with us. She always had a spring in her step, a hug for a child, a kind word on her lips, and a sweet smile on her face. To know Macie was to love Macie. So, as you can imagine, my heart ached intensely when she died.

The sorrow messed with me.

It was heavy. Everything about her death seemed wrong. She was so young. So vibrant. So loved. I longed to turn back the hands of time and alter the course of Macie's demise. I wanted her to magically appear at the service and tell us that it was all just a big misunderstanding. That she was fine! I wanted her to be fine. I wanted her to be alive.

My angst eventually gave way to peace as I remembered that she was fine – because she was alive in the perfect presence of God. The late Barbara Johnson said, "You never know when your time is going to expire, so remember: as you add years to your life, it is more important to add life to your years." Macie only lived on this earth for 18 short years, but she added life to her years when she surrendered her heart to Jesus Christ a year before her death. I imagine that she is now skipping along streets of gold, worshiping God whole-heartedly, and loving on the two babies of mine that are in heaven. She always loved taking care of babies.

The Spirit of God and the knowledge of Macie's salvation consoled me, yet I still had to choose to praise God through my grief. In the sadness, I had to choose to bless the Lord for His perfect plan. Even though His plan didn't line up with my expectations. Even though those plans left many hearts heavy with ache. God's grace enabled me to see rays of light in the dark loss because Macie had professed her faith in Christ and was prepared to meet Him when she breathed her final breath.

Adding life to your years is all about Jesus. In John 10:10, Jesus said, "I have come that they might have life, and have it to the full." We can all know hope and peace in Christ. "In Him was life, and that life was the light of men." (John 1:4) Jesus came to give us life, plain and simple. Radical, audacious, full, abundant, joy-filled life that begins with the forgiveness that He offers us freely. Do you know that forgiveness?

Live today in the fullness of Jesus... in response to His grace and goodness. Colossians 2:6-7 says, "So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in Him, rooted and built up in Him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness."  Let's determine to live each day filled with purposed thankfulness as we worship God and point others to Him in love.

It was a sad day when I said goodbye to Macie. After leaving the graveside, I went home, hugged on my children and loved on my husband a bit more than normal. Her death reminded me just how important it is to add life to my years. It's important for you too.

Live in the moment. God has a plan for your now.

Let's Pray

Dear Lord, Thank You for offering eternal life through the perfect and complete sacrifice of Jesus. Thank you for replacing my human hopelessness with your divine hope. Please help me look past the distractions and disappointments of this world and to live each day to the fullest – in You.

In Jesus' name,

Amen.

Now It's Your Turn

As we are not guaranteed tomorrow, I would like to direct you to add life to your years today...

Is there someone who you have offended, won't forgive, are holding a grudge against or owe an apology to? Contact them today and attempt to make peace before the sun goes down.
Hug your loved ones. Say, "I love you." Focus on what really matters.
"Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn." (Romans 12:15)  Reach out to someone that is hurting. Pray for her.
Read John 1.

[Judy Harder]

 

March 10, 2014
Look for Moments of Sudden Glory
Sharon Jaynes

Today's Truth

Blessed are your eyes because they see, Jesus said, and your ears because they hear. (Matthew 13:16, NIV)

Friend to Friend

Can you remember a time when you sensed God's presence and you were absolutely sure it was Him? Perhaps it was when you first believed, or maybe it happened just yesterday. You may have felt an overwhelming sense of His love, received an answer to prayer, felt an inexplicable peace, or witnessed a miracle. But when it happened...oh, when it happened...you knew you had encountered the divine. The moment came and went, and you were awestruck. Do you remember it? I call those moments when God makes Himself known to you personally a sudden glory—an intimate moment with your Creator, the Lover of your soul, a glimpse of heaven.

To illustrate what I mean by this, consider how Sheldon Vanauken, author of A Severe Mercy, describes the moment he knew he was in love with his wife Davy:

One who has never been in love might mistake either infatuation or a mixture of affection and sexual attraction for being in love. But when the 'real thing' happens, there is no doubt. A man in the jungle at night, as someone said, may suppose a hyena's growl to be a lion's; but when he hears the lion's growl, he knows [full] well it's a lion. So with the genuine inloveness. So with Davy and me. A sudden glory.

I have been in the jungle and heard the lion's roar. I knew full well it was Him. So with the genuine inloveness. So with Jesus and me. A sudden glory. Time and time again.

All throughout our lives, I dare say, throughout our days, we will experience a sudden glory in unpredictable moments. Or, at least we could.

A friend shared a moment of sudden glory in her life:

"Life was hard after my divorce. With no child support and only a part-time job for income, there were days when I didn't know how I would put dinner on the table for myself and my four children. I often had to choose between buying groceries or paying the electric bill. On one such day, I walked to the mailbox praying I wouldn't find another cut-off notice from the utility company. Thankfully, there was nothing of the sort. Instead, I found an envelope that had no return address, and inside it was a note that read, 'Jesus loves you.' Tucked behind the note was a grocery store gift card for an amount that would buy groceries for at least a week.

In that moment, I felt as if God wrapped His arms around me and whispered to my heart, 'I see you. I love you. I care.' His presence was suddenly so real that all I could do was stand there and cry."

These moments are the salve for the glory ache. They are the manna moments to stay the hunger until we finally reach heaven's home. Do you yearn for those glory moments? Well guess what? God longs to give them to you even more than you yearn for them!

Today, look for the moments. The writing in the sky. The breeze upon your cheek. The flower pushing its way through concrete. Expect the unexpected. Let yourself be romanced by a sudden glory moment from God.

Let's Pray

God, Thank You for the glory moments you scatter about in my life with a generous hand. Please don't let me get so caught up on the busyness of life to miss the Source of Life. Thank You for caring enough about me to make Your presence known in so many ways...for speaking to me first one way and then another.

In Jesus' Name,

Amen.

Now It's Your Turn

Think of 5 examples in the Old Testament where a man or woman was caught off guard by a moment of sudden glory. I'll start: Moses and the burning bush. I know. I took the easiest one. Sorry about that.J

Think of 5 more.

Now, I want you to tell me about one of your own sudden glory moments. I have a special page on my website for just for you to tell your story!  Click here and share away! Come often and tell about how God showed up in your life in an unmistakable way.

[Judy Harder]

March 11, 2014
Time to Let Go
Mary Southerland

Today's Truth

There is no God like you. You forgive those who are guilty of sin; you don't look at the sins of your people who are left alive. You will not stay angry forever, because you enjoy being kind. You will have mercy on us again; you will conquer our sins. You will throw away all our sins into the deepest part of the sea. (Micah 7:18-19, NCV)

Friend to Friend

A little boy and his mom went shopping at the mall. The little boy acted very badly, whining, wanting everything he saw, and running away from his mother.

As they were driving home he could tell his mom was very angry. He looked over at her and said, "When we are bad and we ask God to forgive us, He does, doesn't He?" His mom glanced at him and replied, "Yes, He does." "And when He forgives us He buries our sins in the deepest sea, doesn't he?" The mom answered, "Yes, that is what the Bible teaches." The little boy sat in silence for a while, and then he said, "I've asked God to forgive me. But I bet when we get home, you're going to go fishing for those sins, aren't you?"

Part of true forgiveness is releasing the hurt, letting go of the pain. When we don't, it becomes a constant spiritual and emotional drain, robbing us of joy, peace...even light. To experience the power of forgiveness, we have to quit fishing in the emotional waters of our past.

I love superglue and use it for just about everything. One day, I was trying to repair a miniature tea set, reached for my trusty superglue and went to work. I glued the broken saucer and held it in place for 30 seconds, only to discover that I had glued my finger to the saucer. After several painful minutes of struggling to work my finger loose, I was free. The experience reminded me of forgiveness. When we refuse to release people from the hurt they have caused us, we are gluing them to their mistakes. When we cling to pain they have caused us, we are refusing to see them as more than something that they have done.

Psalm 103:12 reminds us that "He has removed our rebellious acts as far away from us as the east is from the west." When we accept the forgiveness of God, He separates us from our sins. Then He calls us to do the same with the people in our lives. Nowhere does God say that we have to feel like forgiving. He just commands us to forgive. Our feelings are irrelevant. Our obedience is what matters.

Forgiveness is an independent act between God and us. It is totally separate from the response or reaction of the person we are forgiving. We are not responsible for their reaction; that responsibility belongs to them and to God. Our responsibility is to forgive. When we refuse to forgive, we not only harm ourselves, we become a hindrance to God working in their lives. "Now it is time to forgive him and comfort him. Otherwise he may become so discouraged that he won't be able to recover." (2 Corinthians 2:7 NLT)

Anytime that we impede the work of God we are in a dangerous position. It is time to let go of the hurt. It is time to forgive.

Let's Pray

Father, I am so tired of holding on to the pain in my life. I want to forgive those who have hurt me and learn how to let go of the pain and walk on. Today, I lay down my pride and my rights. I will not seek revenge or retaliation. Instead, I choose to love my enemies and bless those who have harmed me. Please give me the strength and power to honor you as I step out in obedience.

In Jesus' name,

Amen.

Now It's Your Turn

Read and meditate on the following verses:

Matthew 5:23-24 (NLT) "So if you are standing before the altar in the Temple, offering a sacrifice to God, and you suddenly remember that someone has something against you ... leave your sacrifice there beside the altar. Go and be reconciled to that person. Then come and offer your sacrifice to God."

Make a list of the sins in your life that need the forgiveness of God. Ask God to forgive you for each one. If you have sinned against someone else, be willing to take the first step of reconciliation. If someone has sinned against you, forgive them and go to them in love, seeking restoration. Consider the following questions and answer them honestly.

What are the rewards of forgiveness?

What are the barriers to forgiveness in my heart?

What are the things for which I cannot forgive myself?

What does that indicate about my understanding of true forgiveness?

More from the Girlfriends

Need help dealing with the pain of your past? Check out Mary's E-Bible Study, How to Get Past Your Past.

Need help learning how to study the Bible? Check out Mary's weekly online Bible study, Light for the Journey. The current topic is How to Tame Your Tongue. And be sure to connect with Mary on Facebook or through email.

[Judy Harder]

March 12, 2014
Cease Striving
Sharon Jaynes

Today's Truth

Quiet! Be still! (Mark 4:39, NIV)

Friend to Friend

One January morning, I asked God, "What do You really want from me?"

I had just finished a big writing project and was ready to tackle the next big thing for God. I snuggled in my favorite den chair with a steamy cup of coffee and my well-worn Bible to spend some alone time with my Heavenly Father. I read a few verses and said my prayer. Check. Check. When I started to get up, I felt God's invisible strong hand holding me back. He wasn't finished. Be still and know that I am God, He seemed to say. Cease striving.

Suddenly, I saw myself with the disciples caught on the stormy Sea of Galilee. As I pondered the past twenty-five years of my life, I saw myself reeling in the waves of ceaseless activity. A squall of busyness raging around me—and in me. Reeling from one foamy crest of work and deadlines to the next and hanging on for dear life. In my mind's eye, the fellow passengers were not the motley crew of the first century disciples, but women from every walk, trying to steady themselves in the turbulent waters of life. Perhaps you were in the boat with me.

"Teacher, don't you care if we drown?" they asked. "Help us!"

Then I sensed Jesus speaking to me just as He had spoken to the raucous wind and waves, "Quiet! Be still! Settle down!"

So I sat.

After a few moments, I realized I didn't really know how to be quiet and settle down. I had never mastered the full idea of "be still and know." I knew that God was God. It was the "be still" part that stumped me.

Sitting still was not in my nature, and perhaps it was my nature God was trying to tame. My "nature" or natural bent of working for God was standing in the way of my worship of and communion with God. My daily routine of sanctioned quiet times was getting in the way of the divine romance in which He wanted me to engage.

Does it surprise you that I could say such words? Oh friend, I am nothing if I am not honest. I have that glory ache, the longing to experience God's presence and working in my life, just like you. Sometimes I can get so busy doing, doing, doing, that God's gentle whisper drawing me closer is drowned out by the noises of my own making.

How sad to admit, that sometimes when God extends his hand to invite me onto the dance floor of life, my dance card is already full. Many nights I lean over to turn out the bedside lamp, collapse in exhaustion, and sigh, "maybe tomorrow, Lord."

I don't think "be still and know" comes naturally to any of us. Aren't we taught to get moving? "Keep your eye on the ball."  "Focus on the target."  "If you don't' know where you are going, you probably won't get there." Motivational phrases for sure. But this was God talking, and He had a different message. While the world prods, "Don't just stand there, do something!" God was telling me quite the opposite. "Don't just do something, stand there."

Now He had my attention. So I stayed put.

"OK God," I asked, "What do You really want from me?

He surprised me. He often does, when I take the time to listen. Acts 17:28 came to mind. I believe He put it there. In Him we live and move and have our being. Learn what that means, He seemed to say. I opened my Bible again and read the words, pondering each phrase individually.

In Him.

We live.

And move.

And have our being.

I sensed God speaking to my heart. That's where you will find the secret to satisfy that glory ache. That's the answer you are searching for. That's where you will find what your sisters hunger for. You've been asking the wrong question. It's not what I want fromyou. It's what I want foryou. And in this one little verse, you'll find the key—not just for yourself, but also for others in the boat with you. This will calm the squall of your frantic heart.

God startled me that morning. I was expecting Him to give me a new assignment—something to do for Him.

Another project to complete.

Another study to devour.

Another cause to support.

But He surprised me. It was none of the above. It was one verse. In Him we live and move and have our being.

I wondered, could this be the key to unlock the door behind which the salve to satisfy that glory ache was hidden? The door upon which I had been knocking far too long? I was excited to accept God's invitation as He extended His hand for mine.

Today, I encourage you to take it too.

Let's Pray
Dear Lord, Sometimes, I am not just caught in the storm, I am the storm. Help me get quiet, settle down, and listen. Today, I am living in You. I am moving in You.

In Jesus' Name,

Amen.

Now It's your Turn

Go back and read the story of Jesus calming the storm in Mark 4:35-41.

Have you ever said these words to God, or at least thought the words, "Don't you care?"

Jesus cared. Jesus cares. He's just not worried.

Today, here's what I want you to remember. Jesus is in the boat with you. If that gives you comfort, click over to Facebook page and leave a comment that says: Jesus is in the boat with me.

[Judy Harder]

March 13, 2014
Mary Had a Little Lamb
Mary Southerland

Today's Truth

He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young. (Isaiah 40:11, NIV)

Friend to Friend

As a little girl, I really did have a little lamb whose fleece was white as snow. I can remember the day my mother showed me the lamb and explained that she did not have a bottle with which to feed the stray lamb. I did. I agreed to let the lamb have my bottle if I could have the lamb. I have been fascinated by the unique relationship between sheep and their shepherd ever since.

Shepherds live with their sheep, finding places for them to eat and drink, providing shelter from the storms and protection from the heat. Sheep must eat the right amount of the right kinds of grass at the right times...or they will die. If the sheep eat too little one day and too much the next day, some of the bacteria that live in the stomach of the sheep will reproduce abnormal levels, creating toxins that cause sudden death. This problem was even more complicated for the shepherds of the Bible.

The type of shepherding referred to in the Bible is not the farming of fenced pasturelands, but nomadic grazing. The shepherd must carefully plan the path and lead the way so that the sheep have neither too little nor too much grazing and are able to get to the water hole on time. Pastures are often lost to extreme heat that means the shepherd has to scour the countryside in search of green grass. Several flocks of sheep are gathered together at night in a sheltered place so that shepherds can share the watches of the night, protecting the sheep from wild animals and thieves. Good shepherds are always willing to risk their lives to save their flocks from any harm, any enemy and even from themselves.

Sheep are dumb, can never be left alone and often stray, requiring the shepherd to find and rescue them. A shepherd never pushes his sheep but rather leads his sheep, going before them, making sure they are not walking into danger. The needs of sheep, compared to the needs of other animals, are greater because of their instinct to be afraid and when faced with a fearful situation, to run. Without a shepherd to care for the sheep, they will not last long.

Personally, I definitely fit the profile of a sheep. I can't count the number of times I have stubbornly stuck to my plan, foolishly thinking that it was better than His plan, only to end up in some pit somewhere, calling for help. Psalm 40:1-3 has become my life maxim – with one exception. I rarely wait patiently! Remember, I am a sheep!

Psalm 40:1-3 "I waited patiently for the LORD; he turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear and put their trust in the LORD" (NIV).

I sometimes allow fear to drive me to a place where I am trapped by doubts and darkness...until He rescues me. I try to satisfy my hunger by eating the wrong things found in the wrong places at the wrong times. The result is always the same; my soul remains ravenous for what is good while stuffing my heart and mind with what is bad.

Like every sheep, I don't like to be pushed. Good shepherds do not push, no matter how great the temptation. A good shepherd stands in front of his sheep, gently calling their names, leading them to a place where he has already been, positioning himself between danger and his sheep. When I am tired and ready to give up, I tend to withdraw from the other sheep and even from my Shepherd. Many of us have somehow bought into the lie that they can make it on their own or that the rules, the commandments of God, do not necessarily apply to them...just those other sheep. The longer I serve God, the more I realize just how much we need each other and how much we need Him. When will I learn that I cannot do life on my own – as a sheep or as a shepherd?

A good shepherd is willing to lay down his life for his sheep, just as Jesus Christ laid down His life for you and for me. I am so glad He was willing to lay down His life for every single sheep – the cute, fluffy ones as well as the dirty, broken lambs like me. Maybe it is time for us all to stop, listen for His voice, seek His plan and remember that we are indeed needy sheep who are called to love and lead other needy sheep to the Good Shepherd, Jesus Christ.

Let's Pray

Lord, I am so thankful that You are my Shepherd and that no matter how deep the valley or dark the pit, You have gone before me and made a way. Help me to understand that Your ways are higher than mine. Forgive me when I complain that the way You have made for me is harder than I want it to be. I surrender my life to you, Lord, my God and my Shepherd.

In Jesus' name,

Amen.

Now it's Your Turn

Here is a challenge for every Girlfriend in God. Read Psalm 23 once a day for one month. Record it in your journal. Let every word soak into your heart, mind and soul. When fear comes, turn to God. When you are in need, trust the Shepherd. When confusion surrounds you, trust God to make the crooked paths straight. Rejoice daily in the fact that you are His lamb and He is your Shepherd.

[Judy Harder]

March 14, 2014
Counting the Ways of Love
Gwen Smith

Today's Truth

I have seen you in the sanctuary and beheld your power and your glory. Because your love is better than life, my lips will glorify you. (Psalm 63:2-3)

Friend to Friend

Several years ago I experienced a memorable God-moment when my flight had been delayed. On that particular warm June morning, I had gotten to the Philadelphia airport crazy-early and was eager to get home to my young family after a beautiful weekend of ministry. No lie - when I saw that my flight was delayed, I was bummed. My initial disappointment, however, quickly dissolved into gratefulness, as the extra airport time became an opportunity for me to have extended personal worship.

As I sat facing the flat runway, a fiery orange ball began to rise over the horizon that was simply breathtaking. I couldn't help but to reflect on God's goodness as He bragged on Himself with the glorious sunrise. I remember sensing His presence and His pleasure deep inside as I considered a few of the reasons that I loved our amazing LORD. In the chaos of the terminal, I felt a peace and serenity that was profound.

Have you ever had one of those sweet, intensely personal God-moments? 

Taking it all in, I sipped fresh-brewed coffee as my mind wandered to that classic poem "How Do I Love Thee? Let Me Count The Ways," written by the talented poet of the Victorian era, Elizabeth Barrett Browning. Her poem seemed the perfect backdrop for my worship. Out of that sweet moment of personal worship was birthed the lyric for a song titled Because that I recorded later that year:

Because

by Gwen Smith and Randy Rothwell

Another flight delayed, sitting here I think of You

Sipping on a dark "Seattle's Best"

As the sun is rising, I pause to give You praise

A solitary moment in a blur of busy days

Where should I begin?

There's so much I could say

Why do I love you?

Let me count the ways...



Because You chased me

And then You caught me

Because You cherish me

Because You bought me

You change me deeply

You set my heart free

Because I'm never satisfied

Without Your presence right here by my side



People all around rushing by, just passing through

Carrying the baggage we all own

Desperate for true love, richer life and perfect peace

A chance for satisfaction with a prayer of belief

In Your presence there is serenity

Father of mercy, I love you endlessly...



Because You chased me

And then You caught me

Because You cherish me

Because You bought me

You change me deeply

You set my heart free

Because I'm never satisfied

Without Your presence right here by my side



Hear my heart in this noisy sanctuary as I sit here all alone

You are worthy of a song that's never ending

I will sing until I'm safely home, safely home

Lord I love You, Oh I love You

Have you really savored our Savior lately? Have you paused to adore Him today? What about yesterday? This week? In the midst of marriage, mothering and ministry, I constantly struggle with freeing up time to 'just sit' with God and worship... to behold Him in His sanctuary... yet this is what God desires most! Our affection. Our adoration. Our love.

So today, I praise Him for missed flights that lead to worship. I praise Him for sunrises that demand a prayerful response. I praise Him for the peace He brings to my frazzled. For the calm His presence brings to my chaos.

Before we pray together and tell God some of the endless reasons we love Him, I'd love to lead you to His heart with music. Click here to hear the song "Because" that's featured on my Facebook page: www.facebook.com/GwenSmithMusic.

Let's Pray

Heavenly Father, There are so many reasons why I love you! You chased me and caught me. You cherish me and bought me with the blood of your Son, Jesus. Please forgive me for the times when the busyness of life crowds out my time to adore You. Hear my heart today as it tenderly and sincerely whispers, "I love You!"

I praise you and pray this in the powerful, saving name of Jesus, Amen.

[Judy Harder]

March 17, 2014
"Because I Said So"
Sharon Jaynes

Today's Truth

Sir, we've fished all night and caught nothing. But because you say so, we'll do it. (Luke 5:5, NIV emphasis added)

Friend to Friend

"Because I say so!" I cringe just writing those words! How many times did you hear them as a kid? How many times have you said them as an adult? How many times has God said them to you?

One day Jesus said those words to Peter and John. Not exactly word for word, but that's what He meant.

See, Peter and John had been on the open sea casting their ropes and hauling in empty nets all night. Other than algae, seaweed, and a few bits of trash, their nets had brought in nothing. No fish. No income. No food to feed the hungry mouths that depended on them back at home.

As the sun made its way over the horizon, the discouraged men washed their nets on the shore. Then Jesus, the carpenter and teacher, followed by a hungry crowd, asked to use their boat as a platform.

He got in Peter's boat, pushed away from the shore a bit, and began to teach the crowds sitting along the beach. When He had finished teaching, He turned to Peter. "Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch" (Luke 5:4).

I can just hear Peter now: "Good grief, John. Do you hear that guy? We've been fishing all night and caught nothing. Then here comes this country carpenter telling us how to do our job. He doesn't know the first thing about fishing. Real fishermen don't even fish during the daytime. We fish at night. We're the professionals here. But I'll be polite."

"Sir, we've fished all night and caught nothing. But because you say so, we'll do it" (Luke 5:5).

Good decision.

Peter and John rowed away from the shore and hoisted the freshly cleaned nets one more time. Just then, the God of the universe who created the fish and the seas whistled for the schools of fish to head for the nets. The fish filled the nets like teenagers pouring into a rock concert.

Peter and John must have laughed. I would have. The catch was so large that the nets began to break. They couldn't even contain all the fish.

Exceedingly abundantly more than they could have ever asked or imagined. Abundant. Lavish. Extravagant. A sudden glory!

Can you just imagine the size of their eyes, the drop of their jaws, the strain of their muscles as they pulled in the blessing? Not only were Peter and John blessed because of their obedience, they called their friends in to enjoy their bounty as well.

Oh the moments of sudden glory that fill our nets when we live and move and have our being in obedience to the One who loves us most.

"Because you say so..."

Notice what Peter did after he hauled in the miraculous catch. He left it all behind and followed Jesus to become a fisher of men.

That was the real catch of the day. Oh how silly we are to think that the true riches are simply financial gain. Peter had financial gain with this incredible catch, and yet he left it all behind to follow the God who pursued and caught his heart.

"Put out into the deep water, and let down the nets for a catch." It was a simple request—nothing earthshattering.

Peter had no idea that obeying Jesus would lead to such an all-encompassing life-changing experience. Our little acts of obedience may do the same.

Don't look for the seemingly big showy acts of obedience to get your name in heavenly lights. People might be impressed, but God won't be. Look for, listen for, and watch for the daily responses to His nudges—opportunities for sudden glory all.

Let's Pray
Lord, help me to be quick to obey Your gentle nudges even though I may not understand them. Help me to obey Your Word...because You say so. Thank You for the many opportunities You give me to pull in miraculous catches. I pray I won't miss them because I think I know better.

In Jesus' Name,

Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
What would have happened if Peter and John had disregarded Jesus' instruction to throw the nets in one more time?

Is there something in your life that God has asked you to do, that you have been reluctant to do, because it didn't make sense to you?

If so, what do you need to do about it?

If you want to be radically obedient and ridiculously blessed, click over to my Facebook page and leave a comment that says, "I'm going to obey God and do what He calls me to do!"

More from the Girlfriends

Do you long to feel close to God but sense there's something missing? That you've missed that mysterious formula to make it happen? Do you have a glory ache–a persistent longing to experience God's presence and working in your life, but you're not quite sure how to make it happen? If so, my book, A Sudden Glory: God's Lavish Response to Your Ache for Something More, is just for you. Join me and discover how to erase the lines between the secular and the sacred to experience a deeper, more intimate relationship with God than ever before. While you're there, you can download a free chapter or watch a video book trailer. Also, remember, we're making 2014 a year of prayer! Check out Praying for Your Husband from Head to Toe and sign up for the 30-Day Prayer Dare on my site as well.