Girlfriends in God

[Judy Harder]

December 10, 2009 

Prayer is a Two Way Street 

Sharon Jaynes

Today's Truth
"My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me" (John 10:27NIV).

Friend To Friend
I had been in Raleigh, North Carolina on a speaking engagement when we got the news that Hurricane Floyd was making his way up the coast.  The ladies quickly said their goodbyes and I hopped in my car to make the three hour trip home.  Already the rain was pelting my windshield and the trees were swaying in the gusty wind.  A hurricane so far inland was quite unusual.  Once I made it out of town and to the highway, I joined several thousand travelers trying to outrun and escape the storm.  Men, women, and children as far as two hundred miles away were on the road evacuating the coastal areas.

During my adventure, God and I had plenty of time for conversation. He showed me that my journey home was much like many people's prayer lives.  See, I was stuck in a long line of evacuation traffic.  My side of the highway was clogged with panicky people trying to get as far away from the storm as possible.

However, on the other side of the highway, the lanes heading east, there was only the occasional brave traveler determined to get to his or her destination.  I imagine that's how God sees His children pray.  There's a looooooong line of people calling out for help - that would be the evacuation lane.  And then there's the sparse few people listening to what God has to say - that would be those heading in the eastbound lane.

While prayer is a two way street, many of us spend far more time on the street directing our prayer to God for help than we do on the street receiving His direction.  But I have learned that what God has to say to me is far more important than what I have to say to Him, and I need to be praying in both lanes - speaking and listening.

Let's Pray
Dear Lord, sometimes I just talk too much.  Help me to spend more time listening to You when I pray.  I'm going to make it short today, because now I'm going to simply listen...

In Jesus' Name,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
Do you find it difficult listening to God?  If so, here's an idea.

Find a passage of Scripture to read (perhaps John 15).

Now read just a few verses or one verse at a time, pausing to ask God to speak to you. 

As you meditate on the verses, what thoughts come to mind?

Pick a few verses to think on during the day.  Note any new thoughts that come to mind regarding the verses.

I'd love to hear your comments. Just log onto www.sharonjaynes.com/blog or on facebook at www.facebook.com/sharonjaynes

More From The Girlfriends
Today's devotion was taken from Becoming a Woman who Listens to God.  If you would like to learn more about how God speaks, barriers that impair our hearing, and bridges that help, then this is the book for you.  It also includes a study guide for those who want to dig deeper into God's Word.

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]

December 11, 2009 

Caution 

Bonnie Schulte 

I hope you are enjoying the Girlfriends in God daily devotions.  We (Mary, Sharon, and Gwen) would like to introduce you to some of our special friends.  From time-to-time, the Friday devotions will be written by one of our friends in ministry.  We call them our "Friday Friends."  So grab your Bible and a fresh cup of coffee and drink in the words from our "Friday Friend,"
Bonnie Schulte.

Today's Truth
LORD, you have assigned me my portion and my cup; you have made my lot secure. The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; surely I have a delightful inheritance. Psalm 16:5-6 (NIV)

Friend To Friend
I placed the letter inside the mailbox and firmly closed the door. As I turned and headed down the country road for my daily walk, I was deep in thought about a friend's difficult situation. While I walked, I prayed that the note I had just mailed would encourage her.

Making my way around a bend in the road, my attention shifted as my eyes were drawn immediately to a neighbor's front yard. In preparation for hosting an annual August Oktoberfest, our neighbor prepared her yard to insure the safety of her guests. Yellow ribbon ran from tree to tree outlining the perimeter of her property. The line of tape clearly set apart the area in which partygoers could safely enjoy the evening's festivities.

CAUTION! CAUTION! CAUTION!  In large, bold, black letters, this one repeated word on yellow ribbon marked the borders of the yard. Passing motorists were alerted to the fact something out of the ordinary was happening and they need to pay attention.

What a vivid illustration of Psalm 16.

I began to think about King David. He was appointed by God at a young age to become king over Israel. However, his rise to power was filled with danger, death threats, and disappointments. David was Jesse's youngest and bravest son. He tended sheep; killed both a lion and a bear with his bare hands; and was so musically gifted, he performed for the king. He fought and defeated the giant soldier Goliath, and he lived as a fugitive for many years as he was hunted by a jealous King Saul.

Yet the Lord's faithfulness to David, and David's to the Lord, brought him safely through it all. David cried out to God when he was in trouble, thanked God when he was delivered, and trusted God for his future. David knew that if he had a relationship with God, he had everything he needed for a contented and secure life.

"The LORD has assigned me...the boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places..." Perfectly capable and completely trustworthy, the Lord is good. Bolstered by the reminder and with renewed confidence, I picked up the pace and marched down the road with a determined stride.

Let's Pray
Dear Lord, thank You for Your faithfulness to me and for Your amazing gift of life eternal through Your Son, Jesus Christ. I trust You and give You my life. Amen

Now It's Your Turn
Look up the following verses and note the reasons we can walk through this life with confidence.

Job 23:10

Psalm 119:140-143

Isaiah 41:10-13

Romans 8:38-39

Ephesians 2:8-9

More From The Girlfriends
Leaving behind the familiar and facing the unknown is hard. Today's devotion was taken from Nomad Wife - Lessons Learned Unpacking Boxes. Grab a box and join Bonnie Schulte, as together with Jesus Christ, you pick up, pack up, and move on.

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]

December 14, 2009 

Becoming More Fruitful 

Gwen Smith

Today's Truth
"He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful" (John 1:2, NIV).

Friend To Friend
On a recent family visit to the beach, our room had a balcony that overlooked the swimming pool. As I sat on the balcony one morning, I watched as a maintenance man for the resort approached a palm tree and pulled a brown, life-less branch from the tropical tree. Oddly, before he pulled the dead branch, I hadn't even noticed it was there. After he pulled it, however, I noticed that the palm tree looked fresh and vibrant. Healthy. The pruning made such a difference!

Jesus spoke to His disciples and said, "I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful. You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you. Remain in me, and I will remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.

I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. If anyone does not remain in me, he is like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned. If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be given you. This is to my Father's glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples." John 15:1-8, NIV

The maintenance man at the resort didn't pull the branch to hurt the palm tree. He pruned it to increase its beauty, health and vibrancy. God does the same for us. He prunes His children to increase our beauty, health and vibrancy for our good and for His glory - to make us more useful to Him and more fruitful.

Are there any dead branches hanging on the tree of you?

Let's Pray
Dear Lord, thank You for Your perfect love that longs for me to be fruitful and beautiful in You. Please remove any life-less branches in my life. As the psalmist prayed: "Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting" (Psalm 139:23-24, NIV).

In Jesus Name,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
How fruitful is your life?

Read John 15:1-17 and spend some time reflecting on God's plan for you to become more fruitful.

More From The Girlfriends
It seems kind of weird that we should want to go through the pain of pruning, doesn't it? It reminds me a bit of the old work out saying, "No pain, no gain." When you allow the Lord to expose dead branches in your life and to strip them away, a simple, radiant beauty remains. You become a more vibrant reflection of Him and become better equipped to bear fruit. Trust Him, friend...no matter what or whom He may call you to give up.

NEED ENCOURAGEMENT and INSPIRATION? Order Gwen's book Broken Into Beautiful today.

LOVE TO WORSHIP? Download Gwen's live worship CD, Unsearchable, from iTunes, or order the CD from the store on her website.

IN TO FACEBOOK? Interact with Gwen and other believers from all over the world as they connect regularly on Gwen's Facebook page to encourage one another, laugh with each other, pray for each other and do e-life together. Visit today and become a fan at http://www.facebook.com/GwenSmithMusic.

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]

December 15, 2009 

Greed: A Deadly Master 

Mary Southerland

Today's Truth
"Then he said to them, "Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; a man's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions'" Luke 12:15 (NIV).

Friend To Friend
If we are not careful, greed can become a deadly master - especially during the Christmas season. Greed is serious business in God's eyes, reeking of idolatry and ulterior motives.  Greed lies easily and fervently urges an already disobedient heart on toward sin.  The true story is told of a self-made millionaire who had lived in New York City his entire life.  Born and raised in a ghetto, he worked hard and achieved much.  Anyone who knew this man would testify to the fact that he was generous - to a fault, some would say.  One year, the man was disturbed by an attitude of greed that seemed to pervade the Christmas holiday season and everyone around him.  Not one to condemn, the millionaire decided that since he had been given so much, it was up to him to do his part in combating greed and came up with an unusual plan.  Wearing a disguise, this man stuffed his pockets with $100 dollar bills and set out for a walk on the streets of New York City. When he saw someone in need, he whipped out one of the bills, pressed it into that person's hands and with a "Merry Christmas", made his way down the street.  "It was the most wonderful part of my holiday season," the man reported, and he has been doing it every since. 

In 2 Corinthians 9:7, the apostle Paul writes, "Each one should give as you have decided in your heart to give. You should not be sad when you give, and you should not give because you feel forced to give. God loves the person who gives happily." Giving with joy is Kingdom giving!  When we practice Kingdom giving, we are making eternal deposits "taking hold of real life" here on earth!  If, however, our motive is wrong, our gift will be wrong and will not count in the Kingdom of God.  Before you give, ask yourself, "What's in it for me?"  If the answer is "nothing", then go ahead and give the gift.  Choosing to examine heart motives will guard our hearts against greed, celebrating the commitment that "He is all I want". 

Greed can be very stressful in that it is never satisfied and never at rest.  There is always something more to be gained and someone else to outdo.  Sheep are dumb enough to eat until they are sick. They simply do not know when to stop.  A heart that is filled with greed behaves the same way. 

Cantaloupe may very well be my favorite food. When it is in season, I stock up and always have some on hand. Last summer, on a particularly hot day, a lunch of cantaloupe sounded luscious...and it was.  Afterwards, I was gone for several hours, running errands.  When I walked back in the front door that afternoon, a foul stench nearly knocked me down, it was so strong.  A dead animal was my first thought.  A plumbing problem was my next.  I began a room-to-room search that ended abruptly at the kitchen sink.  Opening the cabinet underneath, I nearly gagged at the stench that slapped me in the face, making my eyes water. I instantly remembered that I had thrown the cantaloupe peels in the garbage before running errands and forgotten to take them to the outside garbage can as I usually did.  The house reeked and the delicious cantaloupe was forgotten as I threw the peels away, lit every candle I could find and opened every window in an effort to eliminate the odor of rotting fruit.  Nasty!               

Greed acts the same way.  It is the gangrene of the soul.  If not quickly dealt with, greed will contaminate every emotion and create a foul stench in every part of life. "So get rid of all malicious behavior and deceit. Don't just pretend to be good! Be done with hypocrisy and jealousy and backstabbing" (1 Peter 2:1 NLT).  Greed must be treated like garbage!  Deliberately throw it away!  Remove it from your life immediately!  When the first hint of greed and jealousy comes, reject it!  Get rid of it!  Take it to the garbage!  Choose against it!  Fight it with Scripture and bombard it with prayer.  Nail it to the cross and count it dead.  "I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me" (Galatians 2:20 NIV). Every motive in our heart must be nailed to the cross and considered dead. "Consider" is an accounting term and literally means to "reckon" or to "calculate".  While we will never be free from wrong motives this side of Heaven, we can and must "reckon" those very human and very wrong motives to be dead and through God's power, allow them no power or place in life. 

Greed is powerful and responsible for the downfall of so many. Money is a good servant but a poor master. Martin Luther once said, "God divided the hands into fingers so that money could slip through." One of the wealthiest men who ever lived was John D. Rockefeller. Following his death, a reporter interviewed Rockefeller's chief accountant and asked the pointed question, "How much did John D. leave? We know that he was very wealthy." Without hesitation, the accountant shot back, "Everything! He left everything!" Greed is a deadly master that is never satisfied. 

Let's Pray
Father, my heart is so easily filled with greed.  It seems that the more I have, the more I want.  Right now, I choose to focus on what I do have and to be contented.  Help me see You in every opportunity to give this Christmas season and please, Lord, give me Your generous heart so that others can see You in me. 

In Jesus' name, I pray,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
If I asked you to list your five most treasured possessions, what would they be?

Why are these things important to you?

Are these things tools or idols in your life?  Explain the difference.

Which one of these things can you give away this year as an offering of sacrifice and praise to God?

More From The Girlfriends
You have heard the familiar saying, "The most important things in life aren't things."  The truth of those words is often swallowed up in the frantic rush of Christmas giving.  Make this year different.  Ask yourself what you can give that will really matter in the life of that friend or loved one.  How will your gift help someone get through the New Year? 

Free MP3:  The holidays are really hard for many people, especially those who regularly struggle with clinical depression. I know. I am one of those people. I have a free MP3 "Celebrate Life" download for you or for someone you love who battles the darkness.  Just email me: mary@marysoutherland.com and put "Free MP3" in the subject line. We will get it to you immediately! 

You may also be interested in my book, Hope in the Midst of Depression. It is my story of God's deliverance from the pit of darkness and His plan for staying out of that pit. It is on SPECIAL SALE  today in Mary's online store ... just for GIGs.

Need help in developing the habit of a daily time in the Word of God and in prayer?  We all do, friend!  Mary's weekly online bible study, Light for the Journey, may be the solution for you and also makes a meaningful Christmas gift.  Take a look at the topics for 2010.  Remember, God's Word is the secret to a life of victory and power!

You can also now connect with Mary on Facebook!

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]

December 16, 2009 

1 Corinthians 13 Christmas Style 

Sharon Jaynes

Today's Truth
"And now these three remain: faith, hope and love.  But the greatest of these is love" (1 Corinthians 13:13 NIV).

Friend To Friend
With Christmas just around the corner, it is easy to get so busy with the cooking, decorating and shopping that we forget why we're doing all this in the first place.  Sometimes, the very people we love get lost in the hustle and bustle of packed schedules, holiday parties, and Christmas musicals.  This Christmas, let's keep our focus on Jesus and not forget to invite the honored guest to His own birthday celebration.

Today, I want to share a poem that I wrote a few years ago that helps me keep a proper perspective on Christmas.


1 Corinthians 13 Christmas Style 

©By Sharon Jaynes

If I decorate my house perfectly with lovely plaid bows, strands of twinkling lights, and shiny glass balls, but do not show love to my family - I'm just another decorator.

If I slave away in the kitchen, baking dozens of Christmas cookies, preparing gourmet meals, and arranging a beautifully adorned table at mealtime, but do not show love to my family - I'm just another cook.

If I work at the soup kitchen, carol in the nursing home, and give all that I have to charity, but do not show love to my family - it profits me nothing.

If I trim the spruce with shimmering angels and crocheted snowflakes, attend a myriad of holiday parties, and sing in the choir's cantata but do not focus on Christ, I have missed the point.

Love stops the cooking to hug the child.

Love sets aside the decorating to kiss the husband.

Love is kind, though harried and tired.

Love doesn't envy another home that has coordinated Christmas china and table linens.

Love doesn't yell at the kids to get out of your way.

Love doesn't give only to those who are able to give in return, but rejoices in giving to those who can't.

Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, and endures all things.

Love never fails.  Video games will break; pearl necklaces will be lost; golf clubs will rust.  But giving the gift of love will endure.

Let's Pray
Dear Heavenly Father, Thank you for sending your Son, Jesus, that starry night in Bethlehem.  Like the Shepherds, I am still amazed at Your great love.  May I not lose sight of the true meaning of Christmas, but celebrate Jesus' birthday with joy!

In Jesus' Name,
Amen

Now It's Your Turn
What are some ways that you can make sure to love your family well this holiday season?

Are there any activities that you need to eliminate from your busy schedule to alleviate over-commitment?  Is your family being neglected because of a hectic Christmas schedule?

If that question wasn't painful enough, here's another one.  Is Jesus being neglected as you prepare for His birthday?  Ouch!  I just stomped on my own toe!

To comment on today's devotion, visit my facebook page www.facebook.com/sharonjaynes or my blog at www.sharonjaynes.com/blog

More From The Girlfriends
It is hard not to get so caught up in the pre-Christmas swirl of activity that we lose focus on what's important.  If you would like ways to keep Jesus the focus of your holiday season, you'll love Celebrating a Christ Centered Christmas by Sharon Jaynes.  It's packed with helpful ideas and holiday inspiration.

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]

December 17, 2009 

Holding Fast to the Faithful One 

Gwen Smith

Today's Truth
"But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed."
2 Corinthians 4:7-9

Friend To Friend
My husband and I are in a waiting period. His company has recently gone through a merger and is collapsing positions and territories, which leaves his employment in jeopardy. We'll know soon if Brad will be looking for another job. In the mean time, God is bidding me to trust Him.

Choosing to trust God is so daily, isn't it? When I only look at the "what-ifs" of this situation - the possible unemployment, the grueling process of job hunting, the financial strain and the uncertainty of the economy - my faith and God-confidence shakes and wanes. Fear and doubt knock on my heart, suitcases in hand, wanting to move in and take up residence. On the other hand, when I fix my eyes on God, look at His character and at the ways He has brought us through hard times in the past, my faith is strengthened. Courage, confidence and joy knock on my heart! They're much better residents!

The Old Testament book of Ruth features the heart-warming story of Ruth and Naomi: two women who faced difficult circumstances and an uncertain future. Following the death of her husband and sons, Naomi decided to move back to her homeland of Israel. Though she freed her daughters-in-law to stay in their home country of Moab and re-marry, Ruth refused to leave Naomi's side.

Determined and loyal, Ruth held tightly to the woman she loved deeply. Though our natural tendency in hard times is often to try to go it alone, I've learned from Ruth, and from my own experience, that in turbulent times it's vital that we hold fast to our faithful God and to the ones we love.

Not only did Ruth cling to Naomi, she held tight to Naomi's God, the One true God of Israel.

"Look," said Naomi, "your sister-in-law is going back to her people and her gods. Go back with her."

But Ruth replied, "Don't urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God. Where you die I will die, and there I will be buried. May the Lord deal with me, be it ever so severely, if anything but death separates you and me." When Naomi realized that Ruth was determined to go with her, she stopped urging her" (vv. 15-18).

God breathed hope into the souls of Naomi and Ruth through their kinsman-redeemer, Boaz. The book of Ruth goes on to tell a fascinating story of how God lovingly cared for and blessed Naomi as He used the faithful friendship and kindness of Ruth to "renew her life and sustain her" (4:15). She went back to Bethlehem as a broken, hopeless widow and was restored by the loving hand of God.

Like Naomi, when I experience difficult times - like the one Brad and I are facing now - I must choose to trust God. Some days I choose well. Some days I don't. I've found that my courage to trust is bolstered by playing praise music, meditating on God's goodness, reading Scripture, and praying. Those things collectively renew my mind and strengthen my faith.

No matter what challenges you face today, take comfort that God knows every issue on your heart and is able to shoulder your burdens. Hold fast to the faithful One. Your challenges do not fall outside the scope of God's ability to intervene. God is mysterious, He's powerful, and He's able! When you lift your eyes from your situation and fix them on your Savior, you will find peace in the pain and strength in the struggle.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart
and lean not on your own understanding;
in all your ways acknowledge him,
and he will make your paths straight (Proverbs 3:5-6).

Let's Pray
Holy Father, You know exactly where I am right now and You know the circumstance of my life.  Please give me the courage to be gracious in my relationships, and help me to trust You today.   

In Jesus' Name,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
Go back and read the book of Ruth. (It's only 4 chapters!)

Look for the ways that Ruth and Naomi held fast to God and to each other through trying circumstances.

List three difficult times that God has brought you through.

Examine your heart to see if there is any fear or doubt hanging around.

More From The Girlfriends
I love the saying, "When we work, we work...but when we pray, God works." It seems crazy that God would invite us into His mysterious work through prayer...but He does. I'd love to pray for you today. Please visit my FACEBOOK PAGE and leave a prayer request on my wall. GiGs from all over the world will see your post and join us in prayer.

NEED ENCOURAGEMENT and INSPIRATION? Portions of today's devotion are taken from Gwen's book, Broken Into Beautiful. Order a copy or two as Christmas gifts!

LOVE TO WORSHIP? Download Gwen's live worship CD, Unsearchable, from iTunes, or order the CD from the store on her website.

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]

December 18, 2009 

Hark! The Herald Angels Sing! 

Sharon Jaynes

Today's Truth
"Suddenly a great company of heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, 'Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom His favor rests'" (Luke 2:13-14 NIV)

Friend To Friend
When my son was four-years-old, I overheard him singing "O Holy Night" in his best vibrato voice.  I chuckled as I heard him bellow, "Long lay the world in sin and ever whining!"  Sin and error pining wasn't in his vocabulary, but he definitely understood the concept of ever whining.

The words to Christmas carols explain the gospel to many unsuspecting listeners.  I can still remember the exhilaration I felt hearing Joy to the world the Lord has come being sung over the intercom of a department store.  A preacher on a soapbox would have been offensive; however, the sweet music on the intercom was singing the gospel, with shoppers humming along. 

During the holiday season, savor the richness of carols and use them for your own personal or family devotional times.

For example, let's look at the words to Hark! The Herald Angels Sing.

Did you ever wonder why the angels were so excited?  The next line gives us a hint.  "Glory to the newborn King."  They were excited because a new king was born!  Check out all those exclamation marks!

The next line says "Peace on earth and mercy mild, God and sinners reconciled."  Some people are not too crazy about the word "sinner."  But originally it was an archery term that meant the distance between the bull's eye and where the arrow landed on the target.  Therefore, "sin" meant "to miss the perfect mark."  And it still means that today.  Sin means to miss the mark of God's perfection.  The Bible tells us that all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. And because of that sin, we are separated from God.  We didn't become a sinner the first time we did something wrong.  We were born that way...but the good news is that God didn't leave us that way. 

The first verse of Hark the Herald Angels Sing tells us WHY Jesus came - to reconcile or join us back together with God.  It also tells us TO WHOM Jesus came - "to all nations."  No wonder the angels were so excited!

Verse two tells us WHO Jesus is.  Can you list all the descriptions of Jesus found in verse two?  He is adored in heaven.  He is the everlasting Lord.  He is the offspring of a Virgin's womb.  He is God with flesh and bones.  He is Deity.  He is Emmanuel, which means, God with us.

Verse three tells us HOW the Christ child made eternal life available to all mankind. He laid aside His glorious heavenly position, came to earth as a man, and gave His life so that we could experience a second birth- a spiritual birth- and live eternally in heaven.

This one Christmas carol shows WHY Jesus came, FOR WHOM He came, WHO He was, and HOW He would accomplish His purposes to reconcile us with the Father.  All that is packed into one Christmas carol!  Now pick out another carol and see what treasures are tucked inside.

Let's Pray
Dear Lord, when I read the words to Hark the Herald Angels Sing, I understand why there are so many exclamation marks.  I understand why the angels were so excited.  They had been waiting since the fall of man for Your marvelous plan of redemption to be set in motion.  Help me never forget Your amazing gift! 

In Jesus' Name,
Amen

Now It's Your Turn
Did you know all that theology was packed inside Hark the Herald Angels Sing?  Now, pick another favorite Christmas Carol from a hymnal, or write down the words from memory, and see what you can learn about Jesus and His birth.

More From The Girlfriends
It is hard not to get so caught up in the pre-Christmas swirl of activity that we lose focus on what's important.  If you would like ways to keep Jesus the focus of your holiday season, you'll love Celebrating a Christ Centered Christmas by Sharon Jaynes.  It's packed with helpful ideas and holiday inspiration.

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]

December 21, 2009 

Who do you trust? 

Mary Southerland

Today's Truth
1 Timothy 6:17 "Tell those who are rich in this world not to be proud and not to trust in their money, which will soon be gone. But their trust should be in the living God, who richly gives us all we need for our enjoyment."

Friend To Friend
The subject of giving always seems to make some people a little nervous - especially in church - and certainly during the month of December. My husband is the Lead Teaching Pastor at Westside Family Church in Lenexa, Kansas and, in my totally objective opinion, a truly gifted Bible teacher. Dan teaches on the subject of tithing and giving only when it comes up in Scripture. It came up this week. "You can give without loving, but you can't love without giving" he said. I totally agree.

The Old Testament clearly teaches the principle of tithing, of giving back 10% of what we earn and have to God, while the New Testament takes giving a step further and encourages us to give sacrificially - beyond our tithe. Dan also said, "You can't be a serious Christ follower without being a serious giver." I had to think about that statement for a minute. When I held it up against God's Word, it stood firm. Then why do so few people who proclaim to be serious Christ followers get excited about sacrificial giving?

I have to start with my own heart and realize that greed certainly plays a part in my attitude toward giving but I also think we don't want to give because we are afraid - afraid that God won't come through but that money will.  I know it sounds ridiculous when put into words, but it is true. We are afraid to trust God - who is unseen - because it seems much easier and more logical to trust money - which is seen. In other words, many of us have come to view and trust money as our Provider. After all, when you hand someone money, you usually get something you need or want in return - clothes, food, a car, electricity or the opportunity to live in a house. Fear then asks the question, "But what would you do without money?"

We live in a "stuff" driven world where it doesn't matter what we have - it is never enough. We are told that the more things we have, the more successful we are and the happier we will be.

Howard Hendricks is a great Bible teacher. He and his wife were having dinner with a very wealthy but humble man from a prestigious family. Dr. Hendricks asked the young man, "How did you grow up in such wealth and not be consumed by materialism?" The man replied, "My parents taught us that money is either an idol or a tool. It depends on how we use it and the place we give it in our lives."

Steve Brown, author and Bible teacher writes: "The secret of a happy life is not to get what you want but to live with what you've got. Most of us spend our lives concentrating on what we don't have instead of thanking God for what we do have. Then we wake up, our life is over and we missed the beauty of the present."

Let me challenge you this Christmas season to trust God and give sacrificially. Step through your fear and beyond what you can see - into simple faith, choosing to believe that God is your Provider and will meet every need of your life even though you can't see how. He will not only meet your needs but He will pour out His blessings on your life because you gave. The more you choose to give, the more you will receive.

Luke 6:38 "Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you."

While it is true that we cannot "out-give" God, it is just as true that we can find a lot of joy in trying.   

Let's Pray
Father, forgive me for the greed in my heart. I confess that greed as sin and choose against it. Help me to focus on giving, Lord. Teach me what sacrificial giving is all about and then help me practice sacrificial giving this Christmas and every day of 2010. May every gift I give honor and please You, Lord.

In Jesus' name,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
Read Hebrews 13:5 "Keep your lives free from the love of money, and be satisfied with what you have. God has said, "I will never leave you; I will never forget you." Examine your level of contentment in light of this verse.

Are you willing to give a sacrificial gift to someone in need? Are you willing to give it secretly? Make a plan to do so this week.

Ask and honestly answer the question, "Who or what do I see as my Provider?"

What change(s) do you need to make in order to be a serious follower of God in 2010?

More From The Girlfriends
Christmas Day is just a few days away. Have you decided what you are giving Jesus this year?  All He wants is you, girlfriend. I love this poem by Christian Rossetti.

My Gift


What can I give Him, 

Poor as I am? 

If I were a shepherd 

I would give Him a lamb. 

If I were a wise man, 

I would do my part. 

But what can I give Him? 

I will give Him my heart.

I pray that this week is a time of preparation in your heart to receive Jesus Christ as a baby who came to earth, our Savior on the cross, Victor over death and our coming King! Merry Christmas!

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]

December 22, 2009 

The Day I Became a Sheep 

    Sharon Jaynes

Today's Truth
"When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about." Luke 2:15 NIV

Friend To Friend
Today I want to share with you a story that I wrote a few years ago.  In it, I tried to imagine what it would have been like to be one of the shepherds that visited Jesus at His birth.  For just a moment, I want you to pretend that you are reading a letter that one of the shepherds wrote to his brother, Mathias.

Dear Mathias:

As I am writing you this letter, my hand is still a bit shaky.  I'm not sure it will ever stop.  But I must tell you about an incredible experience that happened to Matthew, Simeon, Levi, and me, two weeks ago.  As usual, we were watching our sheep on a hillside east of Bethlehem.  I was on the night watch and the others were sleeping. There was something unusual about the sky that night.  I can't explain it, really.  Like heat reflecting off the desert sand, the stars seemed to be jockeying into place, fidgeting and restless in their usual stayed positions.  Diamonds danced on the inky backdrop rather than standing sure and still.  Even the sheep seemed to notice the heavenly mirage.

Then it happened.  As if a curtain was pulled back, I saw what was stirring the stars....angels!  Yes, angels, angels, everywhere.  Immediately, the others awoke to the celestial lights, flapping of wings and the resonation of indistinguishable singing.

At first, only one spoke. "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."

Then, the curtain was drawn back even more and the sky was filled with angels!  "Glory to God in the highest!" they sang, "and on earth peace to men on whom His favor rests."

The flapping of their wings stirred the air, whipped our hair, and blew our tunics in all directions.  Amazingly, the sheep were calm during this majestic occurrence.  It was almost as if this were nothing unusual happening. Perhaps this was not the first time they had seen an angel.  Who knows?  We, on the other hand, were awestruck.  Tears streamed down our dusty cheeks. We fell to our knees, marveling at the beauty of heaven displayed before us.

Then quietly and slowly, the curtain returned and the angels were no more.  We rose to our feet and began to run in the direction of Bethlehem to see this babe.  How did we know where to go? 

Mathias, the only way I know how to explain it is to think of my relationship to my sheep.  When I am grazing in a field with several of my friends and their flocks, our sheep get all mixed together.  Sometimes five different flocks can be mingled together at one time.  But as soon as I call to my sheep, they separate from the others and follow me home.  They know my voice.  Each and every one of them can distinguish the voice of their shepherd and they know whom to follow.

That's how it was that night.  It was as if a shepherd had called my name.  I knew his voice and he called me out from among all the rest.

Where did we go?  To a palace?  To a temple?  To a stately manor?  No, we went to a stable.  But isn't that where a shepherd would call his sheep?  To a stable?

What did we see?  A burning bush like our ancestor Moses?  Writing on the wall?  A vision?  No, we saw a baby, wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger - just like the angel had said.  He didn't speak, but somehow he called our names.  He is the Christ, Mathias.  The one of which the prophets spoke.

Do you remember the prophet Isaiah's words? "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."  When I saw the babe (who later his parents told me was named Jesus,) I knew this was the one the prophet spoke of.  And didn't the prophet Micah say the Messiah would be born in Bethlehem?  It all makes sense to me now, and yet it is still a mystery.

Why me?  Why did God choose to send the angels to announce the Savior's birth to me - a lowly shepherd?  I don't know the answer to that, my friend.  All I know is that one starry night, I was a shepherd.  And then God spoke my name and I became a sheep.  And now, my friend, God is calling your name as well.  I don't know what will become of this baby in the manger, but I do know this...the world will never be the same again - nor will I.

Shalom,
Your brother, the sheep. 
©Sharon Jaynes 

The Shepherd became a Sheep 

By Sharon Jaynes

The angels appeared and called to me 

"Be not afraid, dear one. 

For you are now a lowly sheep 

For you God sent His Son."

"Go to the babe and see him there 

We will lead the way. 

The shepherd has chosen you - a sheep 

To celebrate this day."

We ran and saw the baby there 

I'll never be the same. 

He raised his eyes, said not a word, 

And yet he spoke my name.

Years have passed and now I know 

This babe became a man. 

He lived and died and rose again 

And now I understand.

"Follow me," Jesus said, 

"And I will lead the way." 

"My sheep listen, know my voice 

And with me they will stay."

I was a shepherd, to be sure.   

My sheep slept at my feet. 

But on that night the babe was born, 

I became a sheep.
©Sharon Jaynes

Let's Pray
Dear Heavenly Father, I am so glad that you sent the angels to common man to proclaim the Savior's birth to lowly shepherds.  And I am so glad that you looked down from heaven and chose to announce the Savior's birth to a common girl - me.  Thank you for sending a Shepherd for me - one of Your sheep.

In Jesus' Name,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
The shepherds were not the only ones excited about Jesus' birth.  Why not try your hand at some creative writing.  Imagine that you are one of the wise men (wise women).  Try writing a letter to one of your family members after visiting Jesus and delivering your gift.

More From The Girlfriends
It is hard not to get caught up in the pre-Christmas swirl of activity and lose focus on what's important.  If you would like ways to keep Jesus the focus of your holiday season, you'll love Celebrating a Christ Centered Christmas by Sharon Jaynes.  It's packed with helpful ideas and inspiration.

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]

December 23, 2009 

Operation Shoebox

Mary Southerland

Today's Truth
James 1:17 (NIV) "Every good action and every perfect gift is from God. These good gifts come down from the Creator of the sun, moon, and stars, who does not change like their shifting shadows."

Friend To Friend
Before you hit the malls and plunge into the last days of shopping frenzy, set aside some time to pray, asking God to direct your shopping trip and give you insight as you purchase each gift.  Interesting thought, isn't it?  I have to admit that I tend to plan, think and worry about Christmas gifts more than I pray about them. However, I recently heard a true story that has changed my perspective on Christmas giving.

Each Christmas, Operation Shoebox collects and sends over eight million shoeboxes stuffed with small gifts such as candy, school supplies, small toys, toothbrushes, soap, and shampoo to children across the world.  In Mexico, hundreds of boys and girls gathered at the church in a small village, excitedly anticipating the arrival of their precious shoeboxes. 

Delightful chaos erupted as bulging shoeboxes, wrapped in brightly colored paper and ribbon were passed into the small, eager hands of each child. Wrapping paper was hurriedly ripped into pieces and tossed aside, a smile spreading across the face of each child as their long awaited Christmas treasures were revealed. 

However, one little boy dissolved into tears as he lifted the lid of his box and peered inside to see what he had received for Christmas this year. One of the Operation Shoebox volunteers spotted the little boy and hurriedly made his way across the church to see what the problem could possibly be. With the help of an interpreter, the volunteer asked the now sobbing little boy, "What is wrong?  What is in your box?" With tears streaming down his face, the little boy said, "Socks!" The worker instantly understood and assured the little boy that he could trade his box of socks for another box that might have crayons or a piece of candy in it. Alarm spread across the face of the child as he vigorously shook his head and quickly jerked the box away from the now somewhat confused worker. 

Clutching the shoebox to his chest, the boy began sobbing out an explanation to the interpreter who listened for a few moments and then, with tears spilling out of his own eyes, turned to the volunteer and said, "You won't believe this!" Taking a deep, steadying breath, the interpreter explained, "This little boy has a rare skin condition with which he was born. It seems to affect his feet more than any other part of his body. The doctors have tried various medications and treatments but finally told the little boy that nothing will work and his feet will never heal unless he begins wearing cotton socks. His parents cannot even afford food for this boy; much less provide socks for their son. So, all year long, he has been praying for socks." 

Have you ever considered the idea that your Christmas gift may very well be an answer to someone's prayer?  I have to admit that I have rarely, if ever, made a Christmas gift list with that criterion in mind. Always in a hurry, my first thought is usually how to find the greatest deal at the lowest price in the shortest amount of time with the least amount of effort and hassle at the first store I enter - and hope the person likes it - because that is what he or she is going to get. Ah, yes. That is certainly the heart of God, isn't it?

Join me in making this Christmas season different. Do not allow television ads, catalogues or shopping fliers dictate the gifts you give this year. Turn your Christmas list into a prayer list and you may very well end up giving an "operation shoebox" gift to someone you love. 

Let's Pray
Father, I so want to make this Christmas all about You. I pray that the gifts I give this year will be encouraging and truly helpful and not just items checked off of a list or obligations that have been met.  Please direct my thoughts, my heart and my shopping trips. Help me to spend wisely, in a way that pleases and honors You.  Give me Your heart, Lord, and remind me that Christmas really is all about You. 

In Jesus' name,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn

Carefully make your Christmas list for this year. 
Pray for each person on that list, asking God to give them peace and joy this holiday season. 
Consider making gifts instead of buying them. 
Give something of special value to you to someone on your list.   
Ask God to bless each gift and each recipient.   

More From The Girls 

Wow! To think that God can and does use us to meet the needs of people across the world is just amazing and humbling to me! Life is filled with miracles like the shoebox - many of which we won't know anything about this side of Heaven. But we can put feet to our prayers and give a gift in Jesus' name! Look around, girlfriend. Who needs you this Christmas? 

It is not too late to enroll a friend in Mary's Weekly Online Bible Study, Light for the Journey. Mary kicks off 2010 with a new series, "If You Aim at Nothing ... You Will Hit It!" Don't miss this exciting study of how to set meaningful and practical life goals for the New Year. And now you can connect with Mary on FACEBOOK!

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