Girlfriends in God

[Judy Harder]

May 14, 2010 

Verbal U-Turn 

Sharon Jaynes

Today's Truth
"Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen" (Ephesians 4:29 NIV).

Friend To Friend
I remember taking my son, Steven, to an amusement park just before he began fourth grade.  It was hot, the lines were long, and I began to feel queasy from being gyrated and jerked to sudden stops from 60 miles per hour.  I wasn't sure Steven realized what a great mom he had.  I was feeling quite the martyr and felt the need to remind Steven just how lucky he was to have a mother like me.  But before the words escaped from my mouth, the Holy Spirit gently stopped me. Was that what I really wanted to say?  Would those words make Steven feel "lucky" or would they make him feel guilty, like he owed me something?

Instead of uttering my initial thought, I wrapped my arms around my precious young son and said, "Steven, I am so lucky to have a son like you that I can bring to a place like this!"

With those words, a dimpled smile spread across his precious face, and I was thankful for the splash of the watery roller coaster that disguised the tears streaming down my face.

If I had spoken that first sentence, Steven would not have felt lucky to have a mom like me at all.  He would have felt guilty, and that he needed to pay me back for my "kindness."  However, the revised version made him feel special, treasured, and loved.

Now, who was encouraged?  Actually, we both were.

Perhaps you have some old tapes from your past that you tend to replay with your own children.  Did your mother make comments that caused you to feel guilty or as if you were indebted to her for the care she gave you? Perhaps she still does. Many moms could be travel agents for guilt trips.  Is that how you want to be remembered? 

Guilt is like verbal heartburn or acid reflux of the soul.  It just keeps on coming back and coming back.  But we can change the verbal menu and decide not to serve up a dish of words that cause indigestion!

I had success with my words that day at the amusement park, but not every day has been a banner day.  I have used my words to tear down instead of build up. I have failed many times.  The tongue is difficult to control. It can only be tamed by the power of the Holy Spirit.  God has given those who are in Christ Jesus, the power of the Holy Spirit.  He is referred to as our "Helper."  Just like a wild lion who is trained by hours and hours of discipline, so our tongue can be tamed by prayer and practice.

Let's Pray
Dear LORD, today, I simply want to pray back Your Word.  I pray that You will help me not to let any unwholesome word come out of my mouth today, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs.  If it isn't helpful, may I keep my mouth shut.  If it builds them up, may I speak freely and often.

In Jesus' Name,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
OK, this is a tough one.  If you're reading this devotion in the morning, I want you to pay attention to the words you speak today.

As you go through the day categorize your spoken words as: 

Helpful or Unhelpful

Edifying or Unedifying

If you are reading this devotion at the close of the day, you're not off the hook.  This is your assignment for tomorrowJ.

I'd love to hear your comments about how someone's words have built you up.  Let's chat.  Visit www.facebook.com/sharonjaynes or my blog at www.sharonjaynes.com/blog   

More From The Girlfriends
Paul said that it was impossible to control the tongue, and I agree.  However, what is impossible for man is more than possible with God! He can do it!  We simply need to participate with prayer and practice.  If you would like to learn more about taming the tongue and using your words in positive ways, see The Power of a Woman's Words and The Power of a Woman's Words Bible Study by Sharon Jaynes.

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]

May 17, 2010   

The Lighthouse 

Sharon Jaynes 


In celebration of Mother's Day, Sharon will have several May devotions devoted to moms!

Today's Truth
"She watches over the affairs of her household..." (Proverbs 31:27 NIV).

Friend To Friend
I have always seen a mother as a lighthouse, or beacon in a child's life.  Think about it. A beacon is a landmark that her children can always count on. She shines the light of Christ at night and she serves as a landmark by day. She is watching out over the sea of faces to protect her tiny fleet.  Like the Proverbs 31 woman she "watches over the ways of her household."  She is present.  She's available.  And she's on guard. 

The words "watch over" mean "to hedge about as with thorns," much like a mother bird might do to protect her young.  These same words are also used in the Bible as a military term, such as to watch over a city.  Can't you just see it now: the lighthouse standing tall, not tossed by the surf, guiding her children safely to shore?

But this beacon watches out for more than the physical safety of her fleet.  She watches out for their spiritual and emotional needs as well.

Her gaze is not a casual glance.  She doesn't just give her children a "once over" before they rush out the door to make sure their hair is combed and their socks match.  This is a mother who actively guards, protects, saves, guides, and attends to those precious to her.

When children approach adolescence, they desire Mom to be less visible.  However they want to know the sentinel is still available.  Being available for that teen after school is paramount.  They need a refuge, a safe harbor after a day of social combat.  Who will they turn to?   Whoever is available and willing to listen.  If it is not you, it will be someone else. And just who that someone could be is a scary thought.

Being physically present is not the mother's primary goal. Having the greatest possible impact on her home is.  You can be physically present and still not make a positive impact.  You can be there, but not be all there.  You can become so wrapped up in other pursuits, so focused on relational struggles, so preoccupied with keeping the castle clean and checking items off your "to do" list, so engrossed in television or a good book, that you are oblivious to the chubby fingers tugging on your skirt or the teenager who has become withdrawn and sullen.  If you are going to be there - then be all there - mind, body and soul.         

Being a landmark doesn't end when a child goes off to college.  The farther a ship goes out to sea, the more important the landmarks become. One day in the Sunday School class I attend, 150 parents of teenagers sat with an air of foreboding filling the room.  It was the Sunday after many students had made their exodus to that wild, frenzied world of academia, experimentation, and freedom - their kids had gone off to college.

Grown men were weepy, sharing their battle wounds of dropping their baby girls off at tiny, stark dorm rooms.  Moms were unashamedly crying, and many were speechless for the first time in their lives.

Nancy and Bill Hall were there that day.  Their son, Jordan, a rising sophomore, was visiting our class and witnessed these blubbering parents.  In an attempt to encourage everyone, our teacher asked, "Jordan, since you haven't gone back to school yet and already have one year under your belt, can you share some words of wisdom with the class about what you feel your parents did right during your first year of college?"

With that, Jordan rose, faced the class, and replied, "I would like to take this time to publicly thank my parents for the strong moral upbringing they gave me.  I want to thank them for the way they gave me my freedom when I went off to college.  But more importantly for the way they let me come back home.  They were always available when I needed someone to talk to, and they've left the lines of communication open.  They have been great parents and I like to publicly thank them for all they've done."

When Jordan sat down, everyone was crying, even those who did not have children leaving for college.  He had risen and called his parents blessed.  His mother was a beacon.  A faithful landmark that keep her light shining, welcoming him home, but directing the way so he could leave and sail out to new horizons.

Their childhood goes by so quickly yet we can never turn back the clock as this poem expresses.

My hands were busy through the day. 

I didn't have much time to play 

The little games you asked me to, 

I didn't have much time for you. 


I'd wash your clothes. 

I'd sew and cook, 

But when you'd bring your picture book 

And asked me please to share your fun, 

I'd say, "A little later son." 


I'd tuck you in all safe at night 

And hear your prayers, turn out the light, 

Then tiptoe softly to the door... 

I wish I'd stayed a minute more. 


For life is short, the years rush past. 

A little boy grows up so fast. 

No longer is he at your side, 

His precious secrets to confide. 


The picture books are put away, 

There are no longer games to play. 

No good-night kisses, no prayers to hear, 

That all belongs to yesteryear. 


My hands once busy now are still   

The days are long and hard to fill. 

I wish I could go back and do 

The little things you asked me to. 

Author Unknown

Let's Pray
Dear Lord,

Thank You for being the light of my life.  I pray that You will help me watch over the ways of my household with a wise and understanding eye.  Help me not to miss the special moments, but to embrace and enjoy them.  Remind me often to stop and pray for those that You have placed within my care.

In Jesus' Name,
Amen

Now It's Your Turn
Think of and list all the functions and characteristics of a lighthouse.

How are those similar to a mother and her children?

What are some ways that you watch over the ways of your household?

Place your right hand on your left side and your left hand on your right side.  Now give yourself a big hug.  That's from me!  You're doing a great job!

More From The Girlfriends
If you are a mom who needs some encouragement today, you'll want to read Sharon book, Being a Great Mom-Raising Great Kids.  You'll laugh.  You'll cry.  And you will know that you have one of the most important jobs on earth!

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]

May 18, 2010 

The Promises of Problems 

Mary Southerland

Today's Truth
"You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good."  Genesis 50:20

Friend To Friend
If you are like me, you prefer days when the sun is shining, the sky is blue, and not a cloud in sight. Problems tend to irritate me because they make me realize just how frail I am as a human. But I have come to realize that every problem points to a promise. 

Promise of direction

God uses problems to show us the way. We would walk through the wrong door if He didn't close it. Years ago, I dated a young man I thought I would marry. We had it all worked out. He was a preacher and I played the piano and sang. What could be more perfect? I began to pray, "Lord, if he is not the one, just close the door!" The very next conversation I had with this young man ended our relationship and resulted in my taking a church staff position that led me to Dan Southerland. I look back and thank God for that closed door. 

"Sometimes it takes a painful situation to make us change our ways." Proverbs 20:30

Promise of correction

God uses problems to correct us. I have come to realize that some lessons can only be learned in the darkness, through pain and failure. When our daughter was a toddler, she was fascinated with electrical outlets. Nothing we said or did seemed to deter her ... until the day she stuck a safety pin in the outlet. "Ouch!" she cried, holding up her little red finger for me to kiss. She never played with an outlet again.   

"It was the best thing that could have happened to me, for it taught me to pay attention to your laws."  Psalm 119:71-72

Promise of protection

A problem can be a blessing in disguise if it keeps you from being hurt by something more serious. It was so hard for me to take our children to the doctor to get immunization shots. I would take a healthy child into the doctor's office and come out with a little one who was fussy, sore and running a low grade temperature. Our pediatrician finally said, "Mary, just think of it like this. You are allowing your babies to experience a little hurt in order to prevent them from experiencing a bigger hurt.  A tetanus shot is nothing compared to tetanus itself.   

"You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good."  Genesis 50:20

Promise of perfection

Problems, when responded to correctly, are character builders. I recently spoke for a women's conference that used the theme of "Problems into Pearls." Strands of pearls were everywhere - the center of each table, on the podium from which I spoke, draped across tables - and many of the ladies wore pearls that day. When the worship leader welcomed me, she said, "We have to get you some pearls!" Digging in her purse, she produced the most beautiful pearl necklace and placed it around my neck. As the day went on, I spoke several times, counseled and prayed with numerous women and tried to meet as many women as possible. When everyone had left, the woman came to retrieve her pearl necklace. I was embarrassed. I had worked up quite a sweat with all of that hugging, laughing, talking. She brushed my apology aside and said, "Sweat is good for pearls. It helps them keep their luster."

"We can rejoice when we run into problems ...  they help us learn to be patient. And patience develops strength of character in us and helps us trust God more each time we use it until finally our hope and faith are strong and steady." Romans 5:3-4

God is at work in and around you. You may not see His hand, hear His voice or even understand His process, but you can rest assured that you can trust His heart.  Remember, every problem points to a promise.

Let's Pray
Father, thank You for each problem that points me to You. Help me to see trials as handles for Your promises and tools for growth in my life. I choose to accept the lessons You want to teach me in the dark times and celebrate their truth in the light. Give me the strength and power to trust You completely.

In Jesus' name,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn 

What problem are you facing right now? Put it into words and record it in your journal.   
Pray, surrendering that problem to God and ask Him for the promise it holds. 
What good can come out of the problem you are facing?
What scripture promise do you claim because of this problem? 
Write that promise on a 3 x 5 card and tuck it in your purse.  When the going gets tough, pull out that card and read the verse aloud as a statement of your faith in your Problem-Solving God!

More From The Girls
If I had to choose between problems and peace, I know what I would naturally choose.  Don't you? But God's ways are higher than our ways, His thoughts higher than our thoughts and His purpose more complete than our plans. Trust Him, today, my friend.  He is Lord of the mountain, Shepherd of the valley and He loves you! Need help avoiding that pit? Check out Mary's CD, How to Avoid the Pits and sign up for her weekly online bible study, Light for the Journey.

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]

May 19, 2010 

Oil for My Lamp 

Sharon Jaynes
In celebration of Mother's Day, Sharon is doing a series of May devotions celebrating moms.

Today's Truth
"Her lamp does not go out at night..." (Proverbs 31:18 NIV).

Friend To Friend
Driving along the coast and coming upon a lighthouse is an inspiring sight.   Even though the map marks where the landmarks are stationed, it still brings a thrill when each one comes into view.  That's how I feel when I see a mother nurturing her child.  It is nothing new, this love of a mother for her offspring, but each time I see it, my heart takes a leap. Lighthouses and  mothers share some common features, yet each one is beautiful and unique.  Her light consistently burns bright, her stairs invite visitors to climb to greater heights, and her rough exterior remains impervious to the elements.   But the most important feature is the oil in her lamp.

Recently, I stood looking at the Bodie Island lighthouse with its bold black and white horizontal stripes painted on its cement exterior.  She is quite a flashy beacon, to say the least.  Then I turned to look at the rough seas that were beating against the shore.  I thought about the mariners who were so dependent on the lighthouse's searching beam to lead them safely to shore. What if she ran out of oil?  What if she didn't shine?  The ships were relying on her to be prepared and well supplied with oil.  Then I thought about my own life as a mother. Suppose I ran out of oil, my light grew dim, or worse, burned out altogether.  What would happen to my little fleet?

The blessed mother in Proverbs 31:18 also had a lamp.  Scripture says that "her lamp did not go out at night."  I used to read that verse and think, "Doesn't this woman ever sleep!"  But then I realized that it wasn't so much about her staying awake all night, as it was about her lamp.  She never let her oil run dry.

A lighthouse has one primary mission:  to broadcast light so a mariner can see the shore.  Likewise, a mother is a beacon that displays the light to guide her children through an ocean of choices.  A mother's light is Jesus Christ, and she can't shine that light if her lamp runs dry. Ephesians 5:18 says, "Be filled with the Holy Spirit."  That "be filled" is a present tense, continuous verb.  It means be filled daily and continually.  And interestingly enough, many times in Scripture, the Holy Spirit is referred to as ... you guessed it...oil!

How does a mother run out of oil?  In Max Lucado's book, Just Like Jesus, he tells a story that gives us a clue.

"A lighthouse keeper who worked on a rocky stretch of coastline received oil once a month to keep his light burning bright.  Not being far from the village, he had frequent guests.  One night a woman needed oil to keep her family warm.  Another night a father needed oil for his lamp.  Then another needed oil to lubricate a wheel.  All the requests seemed legitimate, so the lighthouse keeper tried to meet them all.  Toward the end of the month, however, he ran out of oil and his lighthouse went dark, causing several ships to crash on the coastline.  The man was reproved by his superiors, 'You were given the oil for one reason,' they said, 'to keep the light burning.'"

As mothers in the twenty-first century, we are tempted to meet every need that comes our way - and they are constant.  But our primary job is to love the Lord, love our husbands, and nurture our children. All the other needs that scream for our attention, though they are noble, must wait until we take care of our families first. Their childhood goes by so quickly yet we can never turn back the clock as this poem expresses.


My hands were busy through the day. 

I didn't have much time to play 

The little games you asked me to, 

I didn't have much time for you. 


I'd wash your clothes. 

I'd sew and cook, 

But when you'd bring your picture book 

And asked me please to share your fun, 

I'd say, "A little later son." 


I'd tuck you in all safe at night 

And hear your prayers, turn out the light, 

Then tiptoe softly to the door... 

I wish I'd stayed a minute more. 


For life is short, the years rush past. 

A little boy grows up so fast. 

No longer is he at your side, 

His precious secrets to confide. 


The picture books are put away, 

There are no longer games to play.   

No good-night kisses, no prayers to hear,   

That all belongs to yesteryear.   


My hands once busy now are still 

The days are long and hard to fill. 

I wish I could go back and do 

The little things you asked me to. 

Author Unknown

Let's Pray
Dear Lord, Thank You for this family that You have given me.  I pray that I will be careful to take care of their needs before the needs of others who scream for my attention.  Help me to be a woman with a balanced life- God first, husband second, children third.

In Jesus' Name,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
Have you ever run out of oil?  Out of strength?  Out of energy?

That's a silly question!  We all have!

In the Bible, God compares the Holy Spirit to oil.  What does Ephesians 5:18 say about the Holy Spirit in our lives?

What source of fuel does Christ promise us in Acts 1:8?

Which statement best describes your life?

I am burning my light like a candle that consumes itself.

I am burning like an oil lamp fueled by an endless supply of the Holy Spirit's power.

Write a prayer asking God to fuel you with the Holy Spirit's power today.

More From The Girlfriends
If you are a mom who needs some encouragement today, you'll want to read Sharon's book, Being a Great Mom-Raising Great Kids.  You'll laugh.  You'll cry.  And you will know that you have one of the most important jobs on earth. And if you need a little help with balance in your life, you'll want to read Sharon's book, A Woman's Secret to a Balanced Life.

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]

May 20, 2010 

Celebrate the Battle 

Mary Southerland

Today's Truth
Philippians 4:6-7 "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus" (NIV).

Friend To Friend
I once saw a refrigerator magnet that said, "I know that God promises to never give me more than I can handle. But sometimes, I just wish He didn't trust me so much." When trials come and life seems hard, we plead with God to deliver us from the problem when many times, His plan is to deliver us in the problem.  Praise does not depend upon an understanding of the circumstance or trial. Praise depends upon an understanding of and faith in God. 

As humans, we will never fully understand God - this side of heaven. God is holy and without blemish. God is all powerful and omniscient. He is Creator of the universe and yet lives in me. He is the only true, living God!  We may understand some of His ways and comprehend the reasoning behind some of His plans. We may even come to the place of knowing him on what we call an intimate level, but a full understanding of God is reserved for heaven. Until then, we walk by faith, not by sight. We praise him in the darkness, knowing that the light is just ahead. We trust him for things we cannot see and turn to him in the valleys. Honestly, the thought of serving and relying on a God I can understand is not a reassuring thought. 

Most people who know me well would describe me as a strong person, someone who can usually handle what life holds. I thought the same thing until, in 1995, I found myself a powerless, prisoner of the darkness as I battled clinical depression. It took me two long years to climb out of that pit and not a day goes by that I am not reminded of that wonderful, horrible time. One of the many lessons I learned from my "pit experience" was that I cannot depend upon my own strength or my fickle emotions. God often asked me to praise him when, as far as I could tell, there wasn't a whole lot to praise him for! I didn't feel like praising him. I began to understand that praise is not a feeling but a choice, a step of obedience taken without the assurance of a changed circumstance or the elimination of a trial. Praise focuses on God, not the circumstance, and fixes its gaze upon God's truth and God's character instead of the trial at hand or just ahead. That is why we can celebrate the battle before it begins. The outcome is neither our responsibility nor our goal. Praise begins and ends with faith in the very nature, personality and integrity of God ... and that never changes. 

No matter what lies ahead, God is faithful. No matter how hot the fiery trial may be, God will deliver us. No matter what man says or does, God loves and accepts us. So praise God! Thank Him today for every victory tomorrow holds! Celebrate - knowing that the battle belongs to God and because of that single truth, victory is certain. 

Let's Pray
Father, I praise You today for all that You have done in my life. You are faithful even when I am faithless. Your love pursues me even when I am unlovable. Your forgiveness covers my sin and frees me from its penalty.  Lord, teach me to praise You and to see and understand the power of that praise. I want to bring You pleasure, Father. I praise You for Your love and faithfulness to me. Your presence in my life changes everything, empowering me to live each moment of every day, content in knowing You are in control. As I face today, Lord, remind me that no matters what happens, I can praise You!

In Jesus' name,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
Begin your "Joy Journal" by recording the daily blessings He gives you each day. Remember to add the "small" miracles as well as the "large" ones. At the end of the week, have a private praise service - just you and God.  Thank Him for His presence and power at work in your life.

More From The Girlfriends
Our praises are a gift to God. What an amazing thought! God listens for and longs to hear the praises of His children. Busy schedules, crowded lives and chaotic hearts can keep us from sifting through circumstances to find the seed of victory ... to praise Him. What has God done for you, friend? Take the time today to stop and praise Him. He will be pleased and you will be blessed. Need a dose of joy and laughter? My CD, Laugh More...Live Better, may be just what you need to kick off a day of praise. Check it out! 

Summer is coming! Get ready! Check out my book, Escaping the Stress Trap, and learn how to manage stress instead of allowing it to manage you. 

Join women from across the world in Bible study by enrolling in my weekly online Bible study, Light for the Journey.

And I would love to connect with you through email or on Facebook! Become a friend and leave a message! Let's talk!

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]

May 21, 2010
Making the Cut
Sharon Jaynes

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

Friend To Friend
Listening to the kids playing in the neighborhood, I hear the familiar sound of little girls pretending to be cheerleaders.  "Push em'back, push em' back, waaaay back. Push em' back, push em' back waaaaay back."  Their chants take me back to my own years as a high school cheerleader.

I was a cheerleader from the seventh grade all the way through my senior year.  Back in the 70's, girls didn't play on team sports, so this was about as athletic as it got in eastern North Carolina.  In the spring of my freshman year, it was time to try out for the varsity squad.  A panel of six judges sat along the sidelines and critiqued fifty or so hopefuls yell like freight trains, bounce like rubber balls, and perform acrobatic feats across the shinny gym floor.  Pony tails bobbed.  Pom-poms swished. Smiles flashed. Arms and legs flew.

"When you're up you're up, and when you're down you're down.  But when you're up against the Gryphons, you're upside down!"   The cheer closed with a series of cartwheels across the basketball court and an effortless split like a hot knife through butter.  Then we sprang back up, shot our index fingers in the air, and ran off the court cheering, "We're number one! We're number one!"

After everyone had a chance to show their abilities and flash their smiles, we had to wait for the judges to tally the scores.  Then one by one the names were called.  My best friend's name was called first.  Liz Safy.  Then Belinda Judkins, Susan Edwards, Patricia Edwards. Thirteen names were announced.  Liz and I made eye contact and held our breaths as the fourteenth and final name was called.  It was not mine.  While my buddies huddled together, jumping up and down in delight, I slipped out of the gym and made my way home.

Of course there were phone calls offering condolences.  But Liz was the one who called and just cried with me. I was sixteen and heartbroken.

Later that night, there was a strange turn of events.  The phone rang.  Should I answer it? I thought. I was so weary of people calling to tell me they were sorry, but something made me pick up the phone one more time.

"Hello," I sadly said.

"Sharon, this is Mrs. Rose the cheerleading coach.  I don't know how to tell you this," then there was a long hesitation.  What could she say that was any worse than what she'd already told me?

Then she continued. "When I got home tonight, something told me to go back and recount the votes.  There has been a mistake.  You really did make the squad.  It was Beth (not her real name) who didn't make the cut.  I thought I could just keep it to myself and nobody would know there was a mistake, but I knew I'd struggle every time I saw your face.  Congratulations.  I am so sorry this happened to you.  I'll see you at practice tomorrow."

I was speechless. My freight train voice was reduced to a mere squeak. "Thanks for being honest Mrs. Rose. I know this is hard.  I'll see you tomorrow."

Immediately I called Liz and we yelled and screamed in delight.  But then when I hung up the phone, my heart sank as I thought about two other people who were not shouting for joy.  One was Mrs. Rose who had to deliver the disappointing news to Beth.  The other was Beth, who was about to have her dreams dashed.  I prayed for both of them.

Its one thing to get cut from a team and then realize there was a mistake and you really did make it.  It's quite another to think you're in and find out you're not.  This whole turn of events may seem very insignificant in the scheme of world events, but for a sixteen-year-old girl, it made a lasting impression.

There are many who do incredible feats for God, turn spiritual cartwheels, and yell "He's number one" but in the end, may find out they didn't make the team. There's only one way to make sure you're going to make the cut and be on God's eternal team.  It's found in Romans 10:9, 10:  "If you confess with your mouth, 'Jesus is Lord,' and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved." Jesus is the only way. Good works or leading a moral life won't get you to heaven.  Making Jesus Lord of your life is the only way to make it onto God's team.

I can't do splits or cartwheels any longer.  The thought of it brings visions of emergency rooms and stretchers to my mind.  And I'm so glad that such acrobatics aren't necessary to make the God Squad.  As the Bible tells me in Romans 10, I've already made the cut. And if you know Jesus as Savior and Lord, then you have made it as well.

Let's Pray
Dear God, thank You that I don't have to wonder if I have eternal life.  Thank You for the assurance that I have eternal life through Jesus Christ, Your Son, and that I can know that when I leave this earthly life, I will be in heaven with You.

In Jesus' Name,
Amen

Now It's Your Turn
If you were standing at the gates of heaven and the gatekeeper asked why he should let you in, what would you say?

If you aren't sure, then click on the link at the bottom of today's devotion to learn more about how to have the assurance of your salvation.

More From The Girlfriends
What exactly happens when we accept Christ as Savior and Lord?  What is the dramatic change that occurs in us the moment we believe?  Many people are living like spiritual paupers when in fact they are children of the King!  If you would like to learn more about who you are and what you have as a child of God, see Sharon's book, Becoming Spiritually Beautiful and begin seeing yourself as God sees you!

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]

May 24, 2010 

Set-Apart Living 

Part 1 

Gwen Smith

Today's Truth
"Be very careful, then, how you live - not as unwise, but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil." (Ephesians 5:15-16, NIV)

Friend To Friend
As Christian believers, we're called to live set-apart lives. To be holy as God is holy. To be in the world, but not of the world. God is the source of all holiness, and in order to live a set-apart life, we must spend time with Him so we can be fueled by His Holy Spirit.

I don't know what your days look like, but mine are pretty full. They start early and end late. Once the sun rises, it seems that coffee isn't the only thing brewing in my house. An invisible competition brews daily that vies for my time and attention. The competitors are often "good things" that end up to be "time-robbing things" that keep me from God's best and God's presence.

Today I'd like to put our computer lives under a spiritual microscope. I'm an e-girl. I love my MacBook Pro computer, my iPhone, email, instant messaging, and the World Wide Web. Though I'm admittedly fully immersed in the e-life, I'm also cognizant of the fact that the e-world has become a dangerous addiction and spiritual deterrent to many. I struggle with this personally! These electronic forums host a new and efficient opportunity for us to connect with other people 24/7. While much of the social networking, online surfing, and emailing is innocent, encouraging, and fun, they clearly present us with opportunities to sin and be distracted from set-apart living.

Over the past several years, Facebook, MySpace, blogs, instant messaging, and chat rooms have replaced many face-to-face conversations and, for some, devotion time. They have become a new source of temptation for us, an opportunity to live a fantasy or a momentary escape from the daily grind.

A friend of mine recently said, "My computer whispers to me." Yikes! Mine does, too! Though it's embarrassing to admit, I sometimes don't manage my time efficiently because I've given in to the lure of e-life by responding to the audio alert that indicates "I've got mail" or the notification that someone has left me a message on a social networking page of mine. As a result, I've robbed myself of productive time. Time I have wasted and spent unwisely.

We are warned against this in Scripture. "Be very careful, then, how you live - not as unwise, but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil" (Ephesians 5:15-16, NIV).

Now, hear me clearly on this. I'm not saying that electronic forums or computers are bad or evil in and of themselves. (For goodness sakes, you're reading this devotion because of the amazing electronic world!) I'm simply suggesting that it would be wise for each of us to pray about the amount of time and energy we devote to these things.

How can we be set apart in our e-life? How can we establish healthy e-boundaries that will protect our purity and our time with God? Perhaps we could start by taking an honest look at the amount of time we commit to our social e-lives versus the amount of time we commit to spending in God's Word and in His presence each day. (Did that sting? Rest assured, it stings me too.) 

The good news is that we can turn to God for direction and wisdom in all of this. "If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him" (James 1:5, NIV). Our gracious Lord longs for each of us to choose His best and live each day in His strength.

"God, make a fresh start in me. 

Shape a Genesis week from the chaos of my life. 

Don't throw me out with the trash, 

or fail to breathe holiness in me. 

Bring me back from gray exile, 

put a fresh wind in my sails!" 

Psalm 51:10-12, MSG

Let's Pray
Today I thought it would be fitting to pray directly from Scripture. "And we pray this in order that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and may please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, and joyfully giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the kingdom of light" (Colossians 1:10-12, NIV).

Father, we ask this in Jesus' Name,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
Let's get practical today:


o        Spend some time in thought and prayer about this subject. 

o        Ask God to reveal to you any e-habits that are sinful, indulgent, or inappropriate.     

o        Check your on-line notification settings and consider eliminating unnecessary email alerts. 

o        Remember that God longs for your time and attention. Be certain that you don't choose mundane activities instead of spending time with Him. 

o        Read Ephesians 5:1-20.

More From The Girlfriends 

Hey, girlfriend! It just occurred to me that one of the biggest time-sucking e-temptations for me came from the homepage I had chosen on my internet browser. I used to have my favorite cable news network set as my home page. Every time I logged on to the internet, the headlines begged me to click their links. Today I went into the settings of my internet browser and chose a blank page for my homepage. I anticipate that though it's not overly exciting to have a blank homepage, it will allow me to be wiser with my time. Hope this spurs you on to similar responses!

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

Interested in having Gwen speak and sing at your women's event? Send your Women's Ministry Director to Gwen's website and encourage her to fill out the booking inquiry form found there.

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]

May 25, 2010 

Set-Apart Living 

Part 2 

Gwen Smith

Today's Truth
"Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear." (Ephesians 4:29, ESV)

Friend To Friend
Yesterday we began to talk about living a set-apart life.  We looked at our e-lives, the time we spend on computers, and were challenged to establish healthy boundaries to protect and strengthen our faiths.  It was noted that God is the source of all holiness.  In order to live a set-apart life, we must spend time with Him and then be fueled by His Holy Spirit.  Today, we are going to consider how we can be set-apart (holy) with our words.

My ten year old son, Hunter, recently came to me with a humble confession. He said that, "because he hasn't been spending much time with God lately, he has been grumpier and grumpier." He quietly admitted that he has been mean to his siblings and has said some unkind things. With amazing insight, he connected the amount of time that he spent with God and in God's Word with his behaviors ... recognizing that there was a direct correlation in his life.

Boy, could I relate to that! Tears welled up in my eyes as we spoke about this.  I told Hunter that I experience the exact same thing in my life.  That when I don't carve out time in my day to spend with the Lord, I often say things I shouldn't.  For that matter, even when I do read my Bible and pray, I still say and do sinful things.

There was a time in my life when I really struggled with profanity. My tongue was a loose cannon. My church friends would never have known, but when I was angry, profanity was often present ... even if only under my breath. God has delivered me from that ugly habit, but it took over ten years of prayer. In those ten years, I failed repeatedly and struggled to believe that God could change my ways.  It was a long-term process for me to be purified in my language, and I can assure you that it is only by the grace and strength of God that I can stub my toe now without needing to wash my mouth out with soap.

The Bible has so much to say on this topic! Here are just a few examples:

"Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing." (Proverbs 12:18, NIV)

"My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, for man's anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires." (James 1:19-20, NIV)

"When she speaks, her words are wise, and she gives instructions with kindness." (Proverbs 31:26, NLT)

"He who guards his lips guards his life, but he who speaks rashly will come to ruin." (Proverbs 13:3, NIV)

This is hard stuff.  Living set-apart with our words is simply beyond us, but be encouraged, because all things are possible with God.  We need to constantly fall before the Lord and ask Him to filter our words through the Holy Spirit.  It's important that we keep short accounts with God.  When we do, He equips us to disarm the loose cannon of our tongues.

At the end my conversation with Hunter, I told my son that one of the most amazing things about our Heavenly Father is the mercy that He greets us with when we come before Him to confess our behavior.  I said to him, and I say to you, God loves us so perfectly, that every time we turn to Him with a repentant heart, He offers us His grace. Go in His grace and live a set-apart life in the power of His Spirit today.

Let's Pray
Holy Father, "May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing to you, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer." (Psalm 19:14, NLT)

I ask this in Jesus' Name,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn


·         Meditate on Hebrews 4:14,16:


"Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has gone through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet was without sin. Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need."


·         Now, grab your journal and throw yourself into this devotion.  What are your greatest areas of temptation and weakness regarding your words?  Confess those to God and ask Him to grant you the mercy and strength to help you live a set-apart life.


·         Read Ephesians 4.

More From The Girlfriends
If you are a Christian woman and you're struggling to tame your tongue, know that you aren't alone.  Many believers struggle to honor God with their words.  Keep praying and believing.  The changes might not happen over night, but as you persist, God will work in and through you.

NEED HEALING? Got a WOUNDED HEART? Got a FRIEND with a WOUNDED HEART?? Order Gwen's book, Broken Into Beautiful, today.

GOT FACEBOOK? Visit Gwen's FACEBOOK PAGE - leave a message on her wall - listen to a few songs - share the page with your FB friends! :-)

Gwen Smith is a worship artist, songwriter, speaker, and author. For more information, visit her website at: www.GwenSmith.net.

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]

May 26, 2010 

Making My Heart Sit Down 

Mary Southerland

Today's Truth
Psalm 90:12 "Teach us to make the most of our time, so that we may grow in wisdom" (NLT).

Friend To Friend
Every minute of every day is either wasted or invested.  Since the Bible contains over 400 verses about time, we can safely assume that time management is important to God.  In fact, it is a spiritual discipline.  We not only need to view time as an eternal investment, but as an immediate one as well.  One of the most valuable investments we can make is to spend time in solitude. 

I once read an African proverb, "Lord Jesus, make my heart sit down". Solitude is deliberately and diligently setting aside time to "sit down" at the feet of Jesus.  It is in those still, quiet moments of solitude at his feet that we can more clearly hear God speak and gain strength and wisdom for the journey ahead.  In order to practice solitude, we must learn how to budget time. 

It's been said that women must balance their time more carefully than men because women don't have wives. The fact is we are all responsible for how we spend the time God has given us. Time is a precious gift!  Every morning we are credited with 86,400 seconds.  No balance is carried into the next day and every night erases what we fail to use.  If we use it in the wrong way, that time is lost forever and cannot be reclaimed.  Un-budgeted time gravitates to our weaknesses, is stolen by others or wasted on the unimportant.  We must budget time, just as Jesus did. 

Luke 2:52 "Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men" (NIV).

At the age of 12, Jesus traveled to Jerusalem with his parents for the annual Passover Celebration.  When his parents began the long trip home, they did not miss their son at first and when they did, assumed he was traveling with friends.  Jesus was found in the temple, teaching. My first reaction would probably have been pride in the fact that religious scholars and teachers were actually listening to my young son.  I would most likely have encouraged Jesus to continue, basking in the looming recognition and acclaim.  Instead, Jesus returned home where, for 18 to 20 years, he simply grew.  Luke 2:52 tells us that Jesus grew mentally, physically, spiritually and socially. In Luke 3, Jesus begins his ministry, the most powerful ministry ever known.  In other words, Jesus Christ budgeted his time wisely, resulting in a balanced life of fulfilled purpose.  We can live the same kind of life if our priorities are right.

Set priorities:  Ecclesiastes 3:1 tells us that "there is a time for everything, a season for every activity under heaven" (NLT).  We either set our life priorities or allow circumstances and other people to set them.   

Schedule priorities:  There is a right time and a right way to carry out right priorities.  Ecclesiastes 8:5-6 warns, "For a wise heart knows the proper time and procedure. For there is a proper time and procedure for every delight" (NASB). We must schedule time for solitude.  We must set aside portions of each day to spend with God. 

Stick to priorities:  The apostle Paul teaches us to "make the most of every opportunity" (Ephesians 5:16 NIV).  Every challenge will either wreck our priorities or affirm them.  Right priorities stand firm in the face of change.

One day, we will all stand before the Father and give an account of how we invested our time.  Today, examine your time management habits in light of eternity.  Initiate schedule changes that honor God.   Make a new commitment to invest your time wisely. 

Let's Pray
Father, I recognize my need for time alone with You.  I lay down my schedule, my agenda and anything else in my life that would keep me from that time.  Please forgive me for the way I often squander away the minutes, hours and days of my life.  Give me the power to invest time wisely and wisdom to live a balanced life. 

In Jesus' name,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn 

Choose to practice solitude - today. 
Select a place to spend time in solitude - today. 
Lay down your agenda.   
Focus on Him and listen for His voice. 
Memorize Psalm 37:7 "Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him."  (NIV) 
Ask yourself these questions and use the answers to shape a plan for regular solitude:

Why am I afraid of silence? 
What is the greatest obstacle to solitude in my life? 
What steps do I have to take in order to remove those obstacles? 
What do I hope to gain from time spent in solitude?

More From The Girlfriends 

Learning to rest and be still before God is so important to our spiritual growth, strength and maturity.  It won't just happen.  We have to carve out time to spend alone with God in solitude.  Time spent in solitude allows our heart to be still before God.  Solitude filters through all of the voices in life and seeks out God's voice above the rest.  I encourage you to read Psalm 23 every day this month and find time each week for solitude.  The book and/or CD, Escaping the Stress Trap, will be a helpful tool as you learn to make your heart sit down. 

Join women from across the world in Bible study by enrolling in my weekly online Bible study, Light for the Journey.

And I would love to connect with you through email or on Facebook! Become a friend and leave a message! Let's talk!

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]

May 27, 2010 

You Are Writing a Gospel 

Sharon Jaynes

Today's Truth
"We are therefore Christ's ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us" (2 Corinthians 5:20 NIV).

Friend To Friend
Charles Swindoll tells the story of four scholars who were arguing over Bible translations.  One said he preferred the King James Version because of its eloquent old English, another preferred the American Standard because of its literalism and a third preferred the way the Moffatt translation captured the reader's attention.  After giving the issue considerable thought, the fourth scholar admitted, "I have personally preferred my mother's translation."  The others scholars chuckled, but as he explained, "Yes, she translated it.  She translated each page of the Bible into life.  It is the most convincing translation I ever saw."

You have probably heard people say, "My life is an open book."  Well it certainly is with children.  They are reading about life from every page.  They are finding answers to many of life's questions:  "How, as a wife, am I supposed to love and honor my husband?"  "How am I supposed to spend my money?"   "How should a Christian act?"

Not only are children reading the pages of our lives to learn what a Christian looks like, but they also are reading us to draw conclusions about what God is like.  Think back to your own childhood.  How did you perceive God?  In your eyes, was He a harsh taskmaster who sat in the clouds, looking down with disdain every time you made a mistake?  Did He carry a big stick, ready to whip you into shape?  Did He keep a big score book where He made notations when you did something bad and gave you red check marks when you did something good?

Or did you see Him as a loving Father with children clamoring around His feet and climbing into His welcoming lap?  Did you see Him as a Daddy who tucked His children in at night and listened to them talk about anything and everything?  Did you see Him as being not mad but hurt when you made a mistake?

As the authors of the Parent Factor say, "Whether they have been loving or aloof, kind or harsh, supportive or neglectful, parents have played a major role with forming your view of God...  The result can be wonderful or tragic." 

Children are reading the pages of our lives to see what a Christian is supposed to look like. A self-righteous, boastful Sunday school teacher was preaching to his class on the importance of exemplary living.  With his head held high and chest thrust out, he strutted back and forth across the room. He asked, "Now, children, why do people call me a Christian?"

There was a moment of silence.  Then one boy raised his hand.

"Yes?" asked the teacher.

"Probably because they don't know you very well," responded the boy.

They had read the pages of the teacher's life and he had come up wanting.  Here's a poem I'd like us to consider:

You are writing a gospel, 

A chapter each day. 

By deeds that you do, 

By words that you say. 


Men [children] read what you write, 

Whether faithless or true. 

Say!  What is the gospel, 

According to you?' 

(Author Unknown)

Let's Pray
Dear LORD, I know people are watching me to see what a Christian is like.  I know that I am an ambassador for You.  That really scares me a little.  Today, help me to be cognizant that others are watching.  Help me to represent You well today.  Help me to show the world that You are a loving, caring, Father who treasures His children and wants the best for them.

In Jesus' Name,
Amen

Now It's Your Turn
Think back to your childhood. Do you have any preconceived ideas about God that are a result of how you saw your earthly parents?

Whether your parents were wonderful or wanting, they are, or were, still human and have feet of clay.  When it comes to our Heavenly Father, we need to take our earthly parent's face off of the Almighty God.  He is the only perfect parent.

Now, as an ambassador for Christ today, I want you to go about the business of representing Him well today!

More From The Girlfriends
Today's devotion was adapted from Sharon's book, Being a Great Mom, Raising Great Kids.

Motherhood isn't easy.  If it was, it wouldn't start with something called labor!  If you are a mom who could use some encouragement for the most important job you will ever love, then this is the book for you.  And if you know a mom who needs some encouragement today, what a great gift!  Sharon will even personalize it for you.  Just log on to her website and check it out.  While you're there, view an encouraging video as she cheers moms 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