Girlfriends in God

[Judy Harder]

March 8, 2012
Turning Aside to See
Sharon Jaynes

Today's Truth
"Jesus turned and saw her. "Take heart, daughter," he said, "your faith has healed you,"(Matthew 9:22 NIV).

Friend to Friend
All day long God is working in and around us. It is so easy to simply go about the task of living without seeing God's handprints on our circumstances and footprints on our paths. When we see life as a "to do list" to check off, or random acts of fortune to celebrate or misfortune to endure, we miss seeing God and hearing His voice as the scarlet thread that connects the moments and the days of our lives.

Frederick Buechner noted, "All the absurd little meetings, decisions, inner skirmishes that go to make up our days. It all adds up to very little, and yet it all adds up to very much. Our days are full of nonsense, and yet not, because it is precisely into the nonsense of our days that God speaks to us words of great significance..."

When Jesus came to earth in human form, He had a definite plan and purpose.  The Bible tells us, "The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the devil's work,"

(I John 3:.  Another translation says it this way: "The reason the Son of God was made manifest (visible) was to undo (destroy, loosen and dissolve) the works of the devil [has done]" (Amplified).

Even though Jesus' plan and purpose was clearly stated, He welcomed interruptions when His Father placed someone in His path. Jesus turned aside to care for the woman caught in adultery and spoke to the Pharisees about forgiveness. He turned aside to heal a blind man and spoke about the reason the man had been blind from birth. He turned aside to bless children even though the disciples tried to shoo them away.

He turned aside to question who had touched the hem of his garment and spoke words of encouragement and healing to a woman who had been bleeding for twelve years. He turned aside to speak to a curious Zacheaus perched in a tree.  He turned aside to woo a frightened insecure fourteen-year-old girl and welcome her with open arms – me.

Jesus paid attention to the circumstances of those around him as he went from one place of ministry to the next. He noticed a woman mourning in a funeral procession for her only son, a woman drawing water by a well, a lame man lying by a pool and a blind man crying out by the side of the road. To those looking on, they may have seen each of these situations as an interruption in Jesus' busy schedule, but Jesus saw them as divine appointments.

Today, as you go through the tasks of daily living, pay attention to those around you. You never know when someone in your path may be your special assignment from God.

Let's Pray
Dear Lord, I have so much to do today, but nothing is as important as what You have for me to do. Help me to pay attention to the lives around me and recognize any special assignments that You may have for me today.
In Jesus' Name,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
Today, pay close attention to any unusual circumstances that happen your way.

At the end of the day, write down any special assignments that you had from God. Then I'd love to hear about it. Log onto www.facebook.com/sharonjaynes and share your God-moment!

More from the Girlfriends
God is working all around us and in our lives. If you would like to learn more about how to sense God's presence and leading in your life, see my book, Becoming a Woman Who Listens to God. He's got a lot to tell you!

[Judy Harder]

March 9, 2012
The Trust Fall
Gwen Smith

Today's Truth
But when I am afraid, I will put my trust in you (Psalm 56:3, ESV).

Friend to Friend
Our arms were braided across each other's and our hands were locked tightly. As the young girl stood on the tall tree stump above us she looked over her shoulder and saw with her eyes that our formation was tight...that we were ready for her. She heard with her ears that we would catch her...that we would not let her get hurt. Yet the fear that screamed in her head told her not to do it. Not to fall backwards.

Her legs shook and lips quivered. Other campers had gone before her and her cabin mates had successfully caught each one. But this camper hesitated – allowing the looming possibilities of failure and pain to paralyze her from action. The risks just seemed too great.

            She trembled.
            We encouraged.
            She cried.
            We encouraged.

Then, finally, with determination in her heart, she took the plunge. She fell straight backwards onto the safety net of our arms. We bent low to the ground giving way to her fall and caught her with cheers of excitement. She did it! As her trembling legs regained their confidence, she stood tall and beamed from ear to ear – realizing that she had faced her fear. Joy was felt from heart to heart as each of us rejoiced with her.

Mission accomplished. Early in the day, we had trekked across the campgrounds to the "Trust Fall station" as a group of counselors and campers who didn't have a shared experience among us, an unconnected strand of strangers. Now our wooded team-building time had come to an end and we left the trust fall station having bonded deeply as a group of new girlfriends prepared for a fresh journey of fun and adventure.

Each of us took turns at the Trust Fall that day. We all faced a set of scary circumstances and were forced to work through our doubts, tremblings and fears. As a result, we learned valuable lessons and strengthened our relationships.

Since my days of being a camp counselor, I've faced many scary life Trust Falls: financial trials, relationship strains, relocations, sick loved ones, and difficult family matters. I've trembled and I've cried. I've been paralyzed by "what ifs" and "whys." We all go through difficult seasons and trials; times when we want to see the invisible arms of the One who says He will catch us; times when we are afraid to fall into them.

Wherever we go and whatever we face, God is with us – yesterday, today and forever. He bids us to live by faith, not by sight (2 Corinthians 5:7). He wants us to trust Him. He catches us when we Trust Fall,when we live by faith. And to encourage us along the way He spurs us on by sending a cloud of witnesses who testify of His faithfulness. "Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us"  (Hebrews 12:1, NIV).

Today, whether you identify with the shaky young camper on the Trust Fall stump or with the cabin mates who were filled with encouragement for another, God wants you to trust Him...right where you are. It might be scary. Tears might be shed. But God is faithful and can be trusted.

Like the Psalmist, let's choose to say, "But when I am afraid, I will put my trust in you. I praise God for what he has promised. I trust in God, so why should I be afraid?" (Psalm 56:3-4, ESV)

When we Trust Fall from our struggles into the faithful arms of God, we are freed from the fears that paralyze us. Trust Him today, friend. A cloud of Girlfriend in God witnesses are cheering for you!

Let's Pray

Dear Lord,
You are good, loving and faithful – and You know exactly what I'm facing. Please take this burden from me. Help me today to fall into a deeper place of trusting you.
In Jesus' Name I pray,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
What is God asking you to trust Him in or through? Spend a few moments in prayer over this.

Who has been there for you when you faced scary circumstances?  Consider writing her a note or sending her an e-mail of thanks.

Do you have a friend(s) who seems to be struggling to trust God with her tough places? Maybe God wants you to encourage her or him. Perhaps you could write a letter or share a hug – call and pray with her – bless them with a meal or a plate of brownies. Ask the Lord for ideas!

More From The Girlfriends
Today's GiG devotion is adapted from Trusting God by Sharon Jaynes, Gwen Smith, & Mary Southerlandby permission of Multnomah, division of Random House. This is the perfect book for individual study or for gathering a group of friends in what we call GiG Groups. With impactful devotions, study questions, journal pages, free on-line video intros, and an index of trust-building Scriptures...this book is a resource you'll refer to time-and-time again.

Love music? Worship through the songs of Uncluttered. This CD is filled with songs that sweep you away from excess 'life-noise', this music focuses your heart and mind on the one thing that matters: your relationship with Jesus Christ. Order your copy today from iTunes or from www.GwenSmith.net.

Got FACEBOOK?? Let's meet there and do life together on a whole new level: http://www.facebook.com/GwenSmithMusic.

[Judy Harder]

March 12, 2012
The Lesson of the Missing "B"
Mary Southerland

Today's Truth
Romans 12:5 "So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another."

Friend to Friend
Sometimes it is the little things that really get to me. As a writer, I spend a great deal of my time in front of a computer – with which I have a love-hate relationship. I love the convenience a computer offers when it comes to recording the thoughts and truths God gives me to share, but there are times when I would like to throw my laptop into the nearest body of water and be done with it. I can remember the days when I literally wrote out every word of a lesson or devotion because I was terrified of even trying to use a computer. I am anything but a technical guru and could see hundreds – no, make that thousands of hours of work disappearing into some hidden file, going up in virtual flames or being launched into cyberspace, never to be seen again. Why? Just because I hit one wrong key or pressed an incorrect button. However, the day finally came when I realized that the good reasons for using a computer outweigh the bad and decided it was time to take the plunge.

Through trial and error, and the patience of friends who have repeatedly rescued me from more than one cyber disaster, I have evolved into a fairly capable computer operator. I have retrieved lost chapters and lessons, eradicated various viruses, erected firewalls, foiled hackers ... and have come through the fray relatively unscathed.

And then it happened.

I was returning home from a speaking event and decided to use the three hour flight time to work on a writing assignment due the next day. It was one of those unusually sweet and highly productive times when the words come easily and eventually form sentences that actually make sense. I was on a roll – and so was my laptop when the plane suddenly hit an air pocket and dropped what seemed like a mile. I watched in horror as my laptop caught air, crashed to the floor of the plane and slid under the seat in front of me. Fortunately, I had saved my work and desperately hoped the laptop had not been damaged in its fall. When the plane and everyone on board regained their composure, I quickly retrieved the computer and breathed a sigh of relief after a quick inspection that revealed a couple of new, but minor, scratches. 

I opened the computer, ready to resume my work. But then I saw it, the now empty space where the "B" key was supposed to be. Evidently, it had popped off in the fall and was nowhere to be found. I wasn't too concerned. I mean, after all, how important is one little key? There are plenty of other keys from which to choose. They all look pretty much the same. A missing letter or symbol here or there can't be that much of a problem, can it?

As I began my work, I soon discovered just how much of a problem one little missing computer key can be. All of a sudden, it seemed like every other word I needed contained a "B." My frustration level rose as my finger instinctively kept hitting the spot where the "B" was supposed to be and found ... nothing. Finally, I decided I really needed that key and went looking for it. The passengers around me joined in the search, and it was only a few minutes before the person seated in front of me shouted "Got it!" I snapped the missing "B" back into place. In a matter of minutes, I was amazed at how much better the whole keyboard seemed to function now that the lost key was back where it should be.

We all lose our way at one time or another. An unexpected life storm knocks us flat. A bad choice causes us to stumble and fall. We snap under the pressure of a difficult relationship, and no one seems to care or even notice the pain we feel. But then, like a Shepherd searching for that one lost sheep, God turns to us and hears our cry. He lifts us out of the darkness, gives us a safe place to stand and fills our heart with a new song of praise. And He uses people to do it all. In fact, God delights in using people to reach out and minister to other people who are wounded and lost. 

God created us to need each other. We are daughters of the King, sisters in Christ and Girlfriends in God. When one hurts, all of us should feel the pain. When one of us has fallen, we need to reach out, link arms and hold on until the storm has passed. Who needs your love and encouragement? Remember the lesson of the missing "B" and ask God to love others through you ... today. 

Let's Pray
Father, I know You want me to share the love I have found in You. Forgive me for the many times I have been too busy to see the needs around me. Break my heart for those who are in pain and feel hopeless. Encourage them through me, Lord. Fill my heart with Your love so that I can give it away.
In Jesus' name,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
Read Galatians 5:22-23. "But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control."

Make a list of the attributes listed in Galatians 5:22-23. Beside each one, write the name of someone who needs you to live out that quality in their life. Here are a few examples to help you get started:

Love: Jane - my neighbor who is struggling with her teenage son
Joy: Sally - my friend who has just discovered she has breast cancer
Peace: Linda - my friend's sister who is going through a divorce

Make a specific plan for meeting each need. (I will take Jane to lunch.)
Put a time limit on it. (I will take Jane to lunch on Thursday.)
Record your experience in your journal.

More from the Girlfriends
Gwen, Sharon and I were recently able to get together for some long overdue girlfriend time. Yes, we had a total blast! But as we talked and shared, we all had the same burden – to tell you that God really does love you! We want you to know that we love you so much, but that God loves you more!

God's truth is for today. Every time we hear the Word of God, we are then responsible for applying its message. I wonder what would happen if we, as Girlfriends in God, put into action the truth we already know. I have a challenge for us all. This week, let's be "God with skin on" to the people who cross our path each day. That includes that nosy neighbor, irritating boss, difficult child ... as well as our best friend.

I would love to hearwhat God does through you this week because you were willing to step out in obedience. Email me at: mary@marysoutherland.com.

Need help?Beat stress to the punch by getting Mary's book, Escaping the Stress Trap today!

Check out Mary's FREE MPs or visit her online store for great deals on books, CDs,

E-Bible Studies and her DVD, Strength for the Storm.

Join women from across the worldin Mary's Online Bible Study, Light for the Journey. The current topic is "When I Am Afraid" and will help you learn how to face and deal with your fears and live a life of victory.

Need a friend?Connect with me on Facebook or through email. 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]

March 13, 2012
You are Who God Says You Are
Sharon Jaynes

Today's Truth:
"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!" (2 Corinthians 5:17 NIV)

Friend to Friend
There's a game I've watched women play at retreats as an icebreaker activity. Each person has the name of a famous or infamous person taped to her back. Then the women walk around giving each other clues about "who they are."

"You always put off worrying until tomorrow." "You had so many children you didn't know what to do." "You were the queen of soul."

The point of the game is to figure out your identity. Once you guess correctly, you sit down.

One night, as I watched the ladies play the game, I was struck with its similarity to real life. Many times we determine our identity, by what others tell us about ourselves. You are so smart. You are a loser. You are so pretty. You can do anything you set your mind to. You are so ugly. You are so fat. After a while, those messages determine how we see ourselves, whether true or false. It is only a mature person who realizes that just because a person says that you are this or that, doesn't make it true.

One of the greatest blessings of becoming a Christian is receiving a new identity. In the Bible, when God touched and changed a person's life, many times He changed his or her name. He said, "You will be called by a new name that the mouth of the Lord will bestow" (Isaiah 62:2). Saul became Paul. Abram became Abraham.  Sarai became Sarah. Jacob became Israel. Simon became Peter.

Likewise, when you accepted Christ, God gave you a new identity and a new name. If you want to know who you really are, then you need to look in the Bible and see who God says you are. It may be different from what you've heard others say about you, but which do you think is more accurate? Who do you think has a better perception of who you are, your Creator, or other creatures just like yourself? If you are a Christian today, the following verses describe your new identity.

My Identity in Christ

   Matthew 5:13           I am the salt of the earth.
   Matthew 5:14           I am the light of the world.
         John 1:12           I am a child of God.
       John 15:15           I am part of the true vine, a channel (branch) of Christ's life.
       John 15:15           I am Christ's friend.
       John 15:16           I am chosen and appointed by Christ to bear His fruit.
Romans 8:14,15         I am a joint-heir with Christ, sharing His inheritance with Him.                                                         
I Corinthians 3:16        I am a temple of God.  His Spirit dwells in me.
I Corinthians 12:27      I am a member (part) of Christ's body
2 Corinthians 5:17       I am a new creation.
2 Corinthians 5:18,19 I am reconciled to God and am a minister of reconciliation...
Ephesians 1:1             I am a saint.
Ephesians 1:3             I am blessed with every spiritual blessing in heavenly places.
Ephesians 1:11           I am sealed in Him with the Holy Spirit who has been given as a pledge of my inheritance.
Ephesians 2:10           I am God's workmanship created in Christ to do His work that He  planned beforehand that I should do.
Ephesians 4:24          I am righteous and holy.

That is a lot to put on a nametag, but that is your new identity. Neil Anderson, in his book Victory over the Darkness notes, "The reason so many Christians are not enjoying the maturity and freedom which is their inheritance in Christ is because they hold wrong self-perceptions. They don't see themselves as they really are in Christ.  They don't understand the dramatic change which occurred in them the moment they trusted in Him. They don't see themselves the way God sees them, and to that degree they suffer from a poor self-image. They don't grasp their true identity."

In that paragraph, Dr. Anderson described me perfectly. I had no idea who I was, what I had, or where I was in Christ. As God opened my eyes to the truth, I realized that how I saw myself and how God saw me were very different. I decided to start believing God.

How about you? Are you ready to start seeing yourself as God sees you today? After all, it is the truth!

Let's Pray
Dear God, I thank You that I am a new creation in Christ. I admit that sometimes I feel just like the old me and act like the old me, but I believe by faith that I am brand new.  Thank You that my identity is based on my position in Christ rather than my performance on earth.
In Jesus' Name,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
Do have any labels from your past that are in conflict with what the Bible tells you about who you are as a child of God?

Look at the above verses.  Do have a difficult time believing the truth about who you are?

Now here's the big question. Are you going to believe what others have told you in the past or are you going to believe God?

Now, go back up to the list of verses again and read them to yourself a loud.

More from the Girlfriends
Someone once told me that faith is believing that God tells the truth. But many of us don't know the truth about who we are in Christ, what we have in Christ, and where we are in Christ. If you would like to learn more about your true identity as a child of God, and begin seeing yourself as God sees you, check out my book, Becoming Spiritually Beautiful. It is just for you. Also in the site, you can find a handy laminated card filled with verses about your Identity in Christ

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


Girlfriends in God

[Judy Harder]

March 14, 2012
How to Avoid Bankruptcy
Mary Southerland

Today's Truth
Proverbs 25:28 "Like a city whose walls are broken down is a man who lacks self-control" (NIV).

Friend To Friend
It is not enough to acknowledge the presence of negative emotions or even understand why they exist.  We must take action.  If we don't, negative emotions will take control, a dangerous proposition for any woman.  We must not only be able to manage negative emotions in our own lives, we must be able to react correctly to negative emotions produced by the sometimes abrasive behavior of those we call family and friend.  The seeker watches carefully, curious to see what happens when the pressure is on.   

So many women are imprisoned by feelings of inferiority and the results are always disastrous.  Constructive criticism is perceived as an emotional attack.  Jealousy burgeons as others receive the accolades we desperately crave.  Decisions are made and a course of life is determined so that fragile egos are fed, excluding God's plan and purpose.  Comparison reigns as a false idol attempting to validate worth and success. Inferiority crosses over to pride and sin reigns.

On the other hand, we can put negative emotions to work in our lives. Every woman knows that emotions can be like runaway horses. You are trampled by a friend with a hidden agenda, kicked in the gut by a family member, thrown by the lies of a trusted co-worker or crushed by a lack of integrity and character in those in authority over you. Emotions can easily stampede out of control and into sin.

The success of emotional integrity lies in the one who holds the reins.  We must constantly choose to surrender every emotion to the supernatural control of God because when we do, the Holy Spirit empowers that choice, produces control and transforms emotional bondage into emotional freedom.  Learning to control anger is a crucial life lesson and one that we need to master.

The people around us want to see what happens when life pushes our buttons or squeezes our emotions. While God created us with the capacity for emotions, it is our responsibility to control them instead of allowing them to control us.  When Jesus saw money-changers desecrating the temple of God, He was furious!  Yet, He modeled the right way to harness emotions and use them for good. I have heard many Bible teachers and preachers attempt to soften the response of Jesus, but the truth is - He was irate!  I can almost see His face shrouded in plain old fury as He contemplated His options.  If I had been in His place, I can tell you that those wicked men would have been toast!  But before Jesus faced the intruders, He stepped aside to braid a whip - not because He had completed "Whip Braiding 101", but because He was taking the time to harness His emotions. Jesus then used that harnessed anger to drive the money-changers out of the temple, correcting a wrong.  We choose where to invest every ounce of emotional energy we possess.  Like Jesus, we must learn to invest wisely, in order to reap the benefits of healthy emotions, harnessed and trained by godly discipline.

Emotional bankruptcy is too often responsible for the destruction of a life.  We must intentionally monitor emotional withdrawals and the impact they will have on our lives. There are certainly emotional withdrawals that are good, right and ordained by God. I will never forget the night we found a broken and defeated young pastor standing at our front door. With tears streaming down his face, John told us that his wife was having an affair and wanted a divorce. Certain that his ministry was doomed, this precious and gifted servant poured out his pain and defeat. For months, Dan and I ministered to this stellar young man, loving him, encouraging him, making him part of our family while he tried desperately to save his marriage.

When it became clear that his wife was determined to leave him, we repeatedly assured John that God would once again use him for Kingdom work. Today, that once broken young man is married to a beautiful, godly woman who adores him and has two incredible children. The church he now pastors is exploding in growth, changing lives and impacting the world for Jesus Christ!  The time and energy we poured into David was a worthy emotional investment, to say the least, and one of our greatest blessings in ministry.

However, some emotional deposits are not good, right, healthy or God-ordained!  Life is jam-packed with lifeless places in which to invest emotional energy.  There are those who look to us to be their faithful savior or always available crisis manager. That job belongs to God alone!

We all know about bounced checks. For the life of me, I cannot figure out why banks don't adopt my obviously superior philosophy about checking accounts. It goes something like this, "As long as there are checks, there is money."  Sadly, my current bank is rather narrow-minded in this area, so the reality is that my checks will bounce when our bank account is overdrawn and out of balance. The same is true in life.

We constantly need to check our emotional balance, guarding the emotional withdrawals we allow and diligently making consistent emotional deposits.  Prayer, solitude, Bible study, friendships, service, accountability and a guarded thought life are just a few of the deposits that can make the difference between emotional health and emotional bankruptcy.  Emotional imbalance occurs when we operate in our own strength, doing our "own thing" instead of wholly depending upon God and living in the parameters of His will.  When we abandon all that we are to His strength, purpose and power, the Father deposits everything we need to accomplish every good work He created us to do.

Let's Pray
Father, I praise You for giving me the gift of emotions.  Help me learn how to manage and control those emotions so that they are assets instead of liabilities.  I want to become a godly woman of discipline but I can't even start that journey without your power.  I choose to spend time in Your Word and in prayer.  I submit my emotions to You and ask that You use them in my life for Your glory.  And may others see and know You are God.
In Jesus' name,
Amen.

Now it's Your Turn
Take a few minutes to make a list of the top five emotional responses common in your life.  What one of these emotions do you experience the most?

Beside each emotion, write one habit you can incorporate into your life that will enable you to control that emotion.

Identify the activities, relationships or habits that drain you instead of replenish you. Eliminate those that are negative.

Keep an emotional diary for 5 days. Record any emotional outbursts and the reason behind those outbursts.  Surrender each emotion to the power of God.

More from the Girlfriends
Since God created us with the capacity for emotions, He has a plan for those emotions.  And since God never guides where He cannot provide, our emotional integrity is dependent on our obedience to God's plan.  Sounds simple, doesn't it?  Not!  The best way to be ready for emotional struggles is to get ready and stay that way.  Make the choice before you have to.  And know we are right there with you ... walking the same path in pursuit of emotional integrity.

Need help?  Check out Mary's MP3, Getting Good at Being You and learn how to manage emotions, instead of allowing them to manage you.

Join other women across the worldin Mary's Online Bible Study, Light for the Journey. When I Am Afraid is the current series and will help you learn how to face and deal with your fears. 

Need a friend?  Connect with Mary on Facebook or through email. She loves hearing what God is doing in your life!

And if you don't have our new book, Trusting God, get it today and start a new faith adventure in your 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

[Judy Harder]

March 15, 2012
Will You Move Forward or Turn Back?
Sharon Jaynes

Today's Truth
"Then Orpah kissed her mother-in-law goodbye, but Ruth clung to her," (Ruth 1:14 NIV).

Friend to Friend
Have you ever been reading the Bible and suddenly something grabs hold of you so tightly, you know, oh you know, that God has opened your eyes to a new truth? That He has spoken to you loud and clear? Not through someone else, but directly to you? That happened to me this morning and I am compelled to write about it.

It was in the simply story of Naomi,Ruth and Orpah. How many times have I read this story, taught this story, pondered this passage, and yet, God still opened my eyes to something new.

Stand with me on the road back to Bethlehem as Ruth and Orpah are crying because their mother-in-law, Naomi, is headed back to Bethlehem. They both wanted to go with her, begged to go with her, pled to go with her.

But then Naomi said to the girls: "Return home, my daughters. Why would you come with me? Am I going to have any more sons, who could become your husbands? Return home, my daughters; I am too old to have another husband. Even if I thought there was still hope for me—even if I had a husband tonight and then gave birth to sons— would you wait until they grew up? Would you remain unmarried for them? No, my daughters. It is more bitter for me than for you, because the LORD's hand has turned against me!" (Ruth 1:11-13 NIV).

So Orpah turned around and went home. 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 even death separates you and me." When Naomi realized that Ruth was determined to go with her, she stopped urging her." (Ruth 1 16-18 NIV).

Ruth, a Moabite, told Naomi, "Your God will be my God!" God was enough. She didn't care if there was no husband, no future, no provision. She was not turning her back on Naomi. She was not turning her back on the God of Abraham. She was moving forward and trusting God!

There was nothing for Orpah in Bethlehem but God. There was nothing for Ruth in Bethlehem...but God. How many of us look at the future as Orpah did? We look ahead and it looks bleak, so we give up, turn around and go backwards...tuck our tails and go home?

How many of us look at the future, as Ruth did? She saw only God, and continued moving forward? How many of us, like Ruth, believe that God is enough?

I'm going to have to stop and pray right now: "God, I don't see anything positive in this situation. I don't see any hope. But I do see You and that's enough. I'm moving forward...to Bethlehem...to the city whose name means, "House of Bread!"

(If you were sitting here with me as my fingers are flying over the keys, you would hear me preaching. No sweet little devotion today girls. I'm standing on my chair!)

How many of us are willing to be a Ruth? "God I don't see what the future holds. I know others around me don't see any future for me. I have Naomis in my life who tell me to turn around and go home. But God, you are enough. You are more than enough. You are all I need. I'm moving forward. I'm moving toward You!"

Ruth didn't see anything bright in a future in Bethlehem. No husband, no home, no children. All she saw was God. And what did God give her in Bethlehem? He gave her a husband, a home, and children. All she saw was God...and God blessed her in ways that surprised everyone – including her own self.

And what happened to Orpah, the gal who turned around and went back home because she believed Naomi's prediction of a bleak future? Who knows? We never heard about her again.

Let's Pray
Dear God, no matter what anyone tells me today to try and discourage me from following hard after You, I am pressing forward. I am believing in You. I am trusting in You. I am clinging to You. You are more than enough.
In Jesus' Name,

Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
There will always be Naomi-people who try to tell us to turn around and go home. Who tell us that God is not enough. But listen; sometimes it is not a person, but the devil, Satan himself. He will whisper in your ear. "Don't depend on God to meet your needs, go here, go there, your chances are better getting ____________ on your own." You can fill in that blank with husband, children, financial blessing, health, and just about anything.

If you are willing to be a Ruth today and stand with me and say... "God is enough. He is all I need," then log onto my Facebook page at www.facebook.com/sharonjaynesand say,
"God is enough!"

More from the Girlfriends
I'm so fired up right now; all I want is for you to forward this email to a woman who needs to believe that God is enough. If you forward this devotion to at least ten women who need to trust God today, then let me know at Sharon@sharonjaynes.com. I'm going to pick three of you at the end of the day, and send a free copy of Trusting God.

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


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

[Judy Harder]

March 16, 2012
Through The Veil
Gwen Smith

Today's Truth
"Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body, and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near to God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith" (Hebrews 10:19-22).

Friend to Friend
Several years ago, my father was diagnosed with an autoimmune disease that changed the course of his life. My family and I watched in agony as his health faded away and his future evaporated. He was just days away from dying when a donated organ provided a way for him to live. Dad received the gift of life as a transplant recipient.

Tragically, in order for my dad to live, someone else had to die. While our family rejoiced at this priceless provision, another family mourned the passing of one they loved. It was a bittersweet exchange... an amazing gift... wonderful and horrible at the very same time.

There is no greater gift than life. With Easter just around the corner, we will once again consider the brokenness that Jesus endured so that we could receive the beautiful gift of eternal life. So that we can know and experience forgiveness, grace, mercy and the presence of God. The Bible sums it up this way, "God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God" (2 Corinthians 5:21).

God in His sinless perfection is so holy and separated from us that in the Old Testament, only the high priests could enter the Holy of Holies (the Most Holy place where God dwelt) in the temple, and when they did, it was with great trepidation. But some 2000 years ago, Jesus, who lived a perfect life, went to the cross and took on death to mend that separation. Through Him, Scripture tells us that a new and living way was created for us to be reconciled to the holy heart of God.

As Jesus drew His final breath, across the city of Jerusalem – in the temple – the veil that physically separated the Holy of Holies from the Most Holy Place was torn from top to bottom...from God to man. Because Jesus laid down His perfect life for our imperfect lives and then rose from the dead three days later, the barrier between God and man was eliminated. Because of Christ, we can go to God personally, not through a priest in the temple, but through prayer...with confidence of His love for us.

How does this affect you? How does this pivotal moment in history, this "veil renting" influence the way you live? Hebrews 4:16 says, 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.

Have you taken this to heart? Have you asked God to forgive your sins and wipe away the mistakes of your past? The gift of life, through Jesus Christ, is free. Turn to Him now. God is waiting with open arms.  Roman's 10:9 tells us "That 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." No sin is beyond the scope of God's grace!

If you are ready to turn to Him now, call out to the Lord. Pray from your heart: "Dear God, I know that I need do some serious business with You. Would you please forgive me? I believe in Your son, Jesus – that He lived, died, and rose again – all because of Your love for the world. Thank you, Lord. In Jesus' name, amen."

If you prayed that prayer for the first time, or perhaps re-dedicated your heart to God today, would you please email  and let us know. We would love to pray for you.

Girlfriend – let me say this straight: grace deserves a response. Let's go to Him now with worship on our lips... grateful that we are welcome to enter the presence of God. As we do, our hearts are continually renewed, rejuvenated and refreshed.

While studying the book of Hebrews, the Lord inspired me to write this song. Please read the lyric then click the link below to worship along with me:

Through The Veil
by Gwen Smith
(Hebrews 10:19-23)

Through the veil there's a new and living way
Through the curtain, welcome to the Holy Place
Though we once were separated, we are now invited in
Through the veil, through the blood, come to Him
Through the veil, through the blood, enter in

The Holy Place is open, come and worship
The Lamb for Sinner's slain is King of all
We praise and glorify the Lord before His mighty throne
Through the veil, through the blood, come to Him
Through the veil, through the blood, enter in

Through the Veil by Gwen Smith from gwensmithmusic on GodTube.com.

Let's Pray
Dear Lord, You are amazing! Thank you for offering forgiveness and mercy through the great exchange of Jesus. It is a miracle that I can come to You with a heart that is pure. Your love is extravagant.
In Jesus' name,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
• Is there an area of your life that needs 'transplanted?'
• Do you really believe that God can forgive anything you have done? Why or why not?
• Write a response to God. Thank Him for his love and mercy, and then read it to Him as an act of worship!

More from the Girlfriends
LOVE TO WORSHIP? Gwen's song "Through The Veil" is featured on her Unsearchable Live CD. Download Unsearchable, from iTunes, or order the CD from the store on her website.

NEED HEALING for some heart wounds? STRUGGLING to find PURPOSE in the PAIN? God delights to transform lives...including your own. In her book, Broken Into Beautiful, Gwen Smith invites you to experience how the unconditional love of Jesus can change your life. To order the book, go to Amazon or, for a signed copy, visit Gwen's website: www.gwensmith.net.

Love music? Worship through the songs of Uncluttered. This CD is filled with songs that sweep you away from excess 'life-noise', this music focuses your heart and mind on the one thing that matters: your relationship with Jesus Christ. Order your copy today from iTunesor from www.GwenSmith.net.
Got FACEBOOK?? Let's meet there and do life together on a whole new level: http://www.facebook.com/GwenSmithMusic.

[Judy Harder]

March 19, 2012
The Beatitudes of Anger Management Part 1
Mary Southerland

Today's Truth
"In your anger, do not sin" (Ephesians 4:26).

Friend to Friend
Everyone has to deal with anger. The challenge is to deal with anger in the right way. Anger is powerful - an emotional warning that something is wrong. We have been hurt or rejected. Something has changed and we don't like it! 

Anger itself is not sin. We just have to learn to express anger in the right way. Mishandled anger is destructive but anger that is handled correctly can become a tool for good. God's Word is filled with tips for learning to handle anger in a healthy and godly way.

Be still.
Psalm 46:10 "Be still and know that I am God."

If we are busy, it is much easier to ignore or refuse to face and deal with the real source of anger. Anger that is not dealt with in the right way accumulates over time, allowing bitterness to take root and rage to simmer just below the surface of everything we do, say, think or feel. In order to manage anger, we need to incorporate frequent and regular "stops" into our schedules; time set aside to simply be still and hear the voice of God.

Be quiet.
James 1:19-20 "Everyone should be slow to speak and slow to become angry, for man's anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires."

Our first response to conflict is often not a response at all ... but a reaction. We jump in with a brutal rebuttal or a thoughtless correction – which is like pouring gasoline on a fire. An explosion is bound to happen. Our first action should be to stop and think instead of rushing to respond in a way that could escalate tensions or provoke an offensive response from others. Listen to the other person before responding. Try counting to ten before saying anything. This may not address the anger directly, but it can minimize the damage you will do while angry.

Be wise.
Proverbs 25:28 "Like a city whose walls are broken down, is a man who lacks self-control."

Wisdom is doing the right thing at the right time for the right reason. Anger management comes from wisdom rooted in self-control. I love the story of Jesus driving the money-changers out of His Father's temple. In John 2:15, Scripture says Jesus "made a whip out of cords." Don't miss this picture. At the height of His anger, Jesus gathered several cords and braided a whip. I imagine it took several minutes at least to form a whip substantial enough to drive grown men anywhere. I think Jesus was so angry that He knew He needed to cool off, so He deliberately chose to be still, quiet and wise. When we are close to losing control of anger, we need to be wise. 

Be discerning. 
Psalm 4:4 "In your anger do not sin ... search your hearts and be silent."

The longer I work with people the more I realize that there is always a reason for their behavior.  Hurt people – hurt people. When you are angry at someone, ask yourself why. Think back to what led up to the conflict. Was it something someone said to you? Has a past problem triggered your present anger? Give yourself time to consider why you are upset and what you should do to handle it in a way that pleases God.

God created us with the capacity for emotions. That means He has a right plan and a right place for emotions in our lives. Anger management is a spiritual discipline that God honors, blesses and empowers. Tomorrow, we will look at four more ways God gives us to control anger.

Let's Pray
Father, please forgive me when I allow anger to control what I say and do. I want to honor You in the way I manage my emotions – especially the anger in my life. Fill my heart with Your peace. Help me cultivate the spiritual discipline of anger management and learn how to control my emotions instead of allowing them to control me.
In Jesus' name,
Amen.

Now it's your turn
Evaluate the level of anger in your life. Would people who know you well describe you as an angry person? Identity the source of your anger; then make the commitment to face and deal with whatever is causing your anger. Review each anger management tip. Which one jumps out at you as a starting point for learning to control anger in your life? Read and memorize the verse of Scripture listed with that tip. Pray – asking God to show you the steps you need to take today to manage the anger in your life. Record your thoughts and the truths God gives you in your journal.

More from the Girlfriends

Need help?  Check out Mary's MP3, Getting Good at Being Youand learn how to manage emotions, instead of allowing them to manage you.

Join other women across the worldin Mary's Online Bible Study, Light for the Journey. When I Am Afraid is the current series and will help you learn how to face and deal with your fears.

Need a friend?  Connect with Mary on Facebookor through email. She loves hearing what God is doing in your life!

And if you don't have our new book, Trusting God, get it today and start a new faith adventure in your life.

[Judy Harder]

March 20, 2012
The Beatitudes of Anger Management Part 2
Mary Southerland

Today's Truth
"In your anger, do not sin" (Ephesians 4:26).

Friend to Friend
A minister was making a wooden trellis to support a climbing vine. As he was pounding away, he noticed a little boy watching him. The youngster didn't say a word so the preacher kept on working, thinking the boy would leave – but he didn't. Pleased at the thought that his work was being admire, the pastor finally asked, "Trying to pick up some pointers on gardening?" The little boy said, "Nope. I'm just waiting to hear what a preacher says when he hits his thumb with a hammer."

The people around us want to see what happens when life pushes our buttons and anger puts the squeeze on our emotions. While God created us with the capacity for strong emotions, it is our responsibility to control them instead of allowing them to control us. Yesterday, we looked at four ways to manage anger. Here are four more:

Be focused.   
Psalm 37:8 "Refrain from anger and turn from wrath; do not fret—it leads only to evil."

I witnessed the utter strength and beauty of our daughter-in-law as she went through hours of labor during the birth of our twin grandchildren. The pain was excruciating, but Jodi worked through each contraction by doing two things: controlling her breathing and choosing a focus point. We need to do the same when we are angry. Take a deep breath and focus on the peace of God.

Be understanding. 
James 1:19 "Everyone should be quick to listen."

We have two ears and one mouth for a reason—to listen twice as much as we speak. When you find yourself getting angry with someone, take time to listen to what the other person has to say. Make sure you understand their viewpoint. In fact, it might be a good idea for you to repeat it back to make sure you do get the real point. Only then, when you have processed that information and reigned in your emotions, should you offer a reply. Listening for the purpose of understanding plays a significant role in anger management.

Be kind.
Proverbs 15:1 "A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger."       

It had been one of "those" mornings and I was behind schedule in preparing to teach the women's Tuesday morning Bible study at our church. I am fairly certain I did not exude peace and joy as I rushed around. Finally, it looked like everything was ready – everything except my heart. I knew I needed to spend some time alone with God before standing to teach His Word, so I found a quiet room where I could escape for a few minutes of solitude. As I began to pray, the door flew open and crashed against the wall behind it as the husband of one of our group leaders burst into the room. I could tell by the look on his face that he was not happy and that whatever was wrong was definitely my fault. In a very loud and very angry voice, the man began to explain the problem, ending his tirade with the question, "And just what are you going to do about it?" I knew what I wanted to say to the man. I also knew God didn't want me to say it. In a rare moment of wisdom, I faced my accuser with a smile and whispered, "I'll tell you exactly what I am going to do. I am going to do whatever it takes to make you happy."

I was completely unprepared for the man's reaction. His mouth fell open, his eyes widened in surprise - no, make that shock - and he stumbled backwards as if I had hit him. We stared at each other for what seemed like an hour before he finally whispered back, "Thank you." Without another word, the man turned and literally ran out of the room. The most amazing part of this story is that from that day on, he has been one of my strongest encouragers.

The next time someone makes you angry, put a smile on your face. It is hard to stay upset when you are smiling. Smiling is one of the best anger management tips because you can do it anytime, almost anywhere, and to pretty much anyone. The next time you are angry, choose to give a friendly smile of understanding, appreciation, or patience as you listen to the other side of the story.   

Be ready.
1 Peter 5:8 "Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour."

The best way to manage anger is to prevent it in the first place. How? Balance your schedule and priorities so that you will not live in a constant state of frustration and exhaustion. Avoid spending time with angry people. Proverbs 22:24 says, "Do not make friends with a hot-tempered man; do not associate with one easily angered." We really do become like the people with whom we spend the most time. Pray constantly, asking the Holy Spirit to help you cultivate the habits that encourage peace – not anger. Memorize Scripture. The Word of God is a powerful weapon in dealing with and managing our emotions.

Anger is today's emotional epidemic. What does it take to make you angry? Do you have a short fuse or a long one? How many relationships in your life have been damaged by your anger? Remember ... more important than the way you were and more important than the way you are ... is the way you can be. Right now, surrender your anger to God and thank Him for a new beginning.

Let's Pray
Father, I need Your power and strength to help me control my anger. Forgive me for the damage and pain my anger has caused the people in my life. I want my emotional health to honor and please You.
In Jesus' name,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
Review all of the anger management tips we have explored. How can you plug these tips into your daily life? I encourage you to recruit a girlfriend who will hold you accountable for the way you handle anger. Check in with her once a week. Be honest and open about your anger level.  Journal your thoughts ... the truths God gives you ... the progress you make.

More from the Girlfriends

Need help?  Check out Mary's MP3, Getting Good at Being You and learn how to manage emotions, instead of allowing them to manage you.

Join other women across the world in Mary's Online Bible Study, Light for the Journey. When I Am Afraid is the current series and will help you learn how to face and deal with your fears.

Need a friend?  Connect with Mary on Facebookor through email.  She loves hearing what God is doing in your life!

And if you don't have our new book, Trusting God, get it today and start a new faith adventure in your 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]

March 21, 2012
Battling the Three Headed Monster of Inferiority, Insecurity, and Inadequacy
Sharon Jaynes

Today's Truth
"Not that we are competent in ourselves to claim anything for ourselves, but our competence comes from God," (2 Corinthians 3:4 NIV).

Friend to Friend
The three-headed monster of inferiority, insecurity and inadequacy can paralyze a Christian into inactivity and leave her sitting on the bench during the game of life...afraid to get into the game. God's desire is to destroy the monster with the truth and render him impotent in our lives. Satan's desire is to feed him with lies and train him to control our lives. Whom are we going to believe?

Believing the truth about who you are in Christ destroys feelings of inferiority. Believing the truth about where you are in Christ destroys feelings of insecurity. Believing the truth about what you have in Christ destroys feelings of inadequacy.

I do not want you to think I am always victorious and never struggle with the three-headed monster. He still rears his ugly head every now and then. Let me give you one example of how he does it.

Many years ago, I had my first large speaking engagement to about 450 women.  My topic was Unshakable Confidence in Christ. Two weeks before I was to speak to the group, I attended a luncheon. Two ladies, whom I did not know, were sitting at my table. They were talking about a speaker they had recently heard at the church where I would be speaking in a few weeks.

"He was the most powerful speaker I have ever heard," one said.

"I cried all the way through his testimony. Just to think, he had to live with the fact that his son was an arsonist. Oh how God has worked mightily in the family.  The pastor was so moved, he asked him to speak at the Sunday night service. That is highly unusual. I don't think we will ever have a speaker that good again."

On and on they sang the praises of this mighty man of God. They used words like dynamic, powerful, electric, and eloquent. I never mentioned that I would be the speaker for their next meeting. At that point, I wasn't so sure I would be.

As I listened to the ladies, my throat constricted, the tea sandwiches clung to the roof of my mouth, and my heart pounded wildly. Then Satan, the gatekeeper for the three-headed monster, let him out.

"Who do you think you are, going to speak at this event?" he seemed to say.  "Listen to the caliber of people they bring in. This man came from all the way across the country. You are coming from across town. What could you possibly have to say to help these women? If I were you, I'd bow out now before you embarrass yourself."

You know what? Even though I knew it was the enemy whispering in my ear, I started to believe him. After all, what he was saying made a lot more sense than the "My new Identity in Christ" Bible verses I had taped on my refrigerator door.

After the luncheon, I decided to go by the church and purchase a tape of the previous speaker, just to see what I was going to be compared to. I walked into the church, paid my $5.00, popped the tape in the console, and braced myself for the hour of power.

Nothing happened.
I fast-forwarded the tape.
Nothing happened.
I flipped the tape over.
Nothing happened.
The tape was blank.

At that moment, I did not hear the dynamic speaker on the tape, I heard God.

Sharon, you do not need to hear what my servant said to those people two weeks ago. The tape is blank because I do not want you to compare yourself to anyone else. It doesn't matter what he said. I will give you a message for these ladies. I can speak through a prophet, I can speak through a fisherman, and I can speak through a donkey.           

I gave him a message and I have given you one as well. Who are you "performing" for, my child, them or Me? Do not compare yourself to anyone.  You are my child and I am asking you to speak to an audience of One.

It was indeed an hour of power. I didn't bother getting my money back for the defective tape. It was exactly what I needed to hear.

So the next time Satan said to me, "Who do you think you are?" let me tell you what I said. "I am the light of the world. I am the salt of the earth. I am a child of God. I am the bride of Christ. I am a joint-heir with Christ. I have the power of the Holy Spirit. I have been delivered from the domain of darkness and transferred to the kingdom of Christ.  I am chosen of God, holy and dearly loved."

Two weeks later I spoke with confidence, and God blessed us all.

Let's Pray
Dear God, I know that without You I am nothing but an empty vessel. However, because of You, I am filled with the power of the Holy Spirit and have been blessed with every spiritual blessing! I can be confident because of who I am as a child of the King. I can do everything through Christ who gives me strength!
In Jesus' Name,
Amen.

Now It's Your Turn
When is the last time the three-headed monster attacked you?

Where do you think those feelings of insecurity came from?

Do you believe that the power of God lives in You?

Do you think there is any incident in which God would say "I can't?"

I hope you answered no! Look up these two verses and write them down. Post them in a visible place and look at them every time your confidence begins to wane this week.
Luke 1:37
Genesis 18:14

Next time Satan lets the Three-headed monster out of his cage to attack you, what are you going to tell him? Tell me one sentence at www.facebook.com/sharonjaynes.

More from the Girlfriends
This story was taken from my book Becoming Spiritually Beautiful. If you struggle with confidence, then this book, as well as I'm Not Good Enough...and Other Lies Women Tell Themselves, will give you the confidence you need to do all that God has planned for you to do! Hang on to your hat! God's about to do something amazing in your 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