Encouragement for Today

[Judy Harder]

August 2, 2012

When I Want to be Mean
Lysa TerKeurst


"So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness." - Colossians 2:6-7 (NIV 1984)

I looked at the text message in complete disbelief. Why couldn't this person see how insensitive and hurtful they were being?

I don't know who made up the saying, "Sticks and stones may break my bones but words can't ever hurt me." Either they had nerves of steel or they lived on a deserted island with no other people. Because not only do words hurt me, but they make me want to fight back and be mean, too.

Have you ever had a little situation with someone where you just knew you were right and they were wrong? Or at least you could make a really good case for your side of things?

Oh how I have this burning need to state my case in these kinds of situations. It's like an inner attorney rises up desperate to defend my rights and get the other person to see things my way. This is pretty normal, right?

Yes. But normal doesn't always mean good. Especially in light of today's key verse.

Colossians 2:6-7 reminds me, "So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness." (NIV 1984)

I should live rooted in Jesus' teaching and overflow with thankfulness. The opposite of this is when I'm rooted in self-centered opinions and overflowing with grumbling. I need to let God show me how to see things from this other person's side and gain a different perspective. In doing so, I will be strengthened and taught.

Colossians 3:12-14 reminds me, "... as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity." (NIV 1984)

My job isn't to fix this person or make them see my side of things. My job is to obey God by offering an extension of the forgiveness I've been given. But I can also stay healthy in this situation by remembering forgiveness doesn't mean giving this person access in my life that sets me up for destructive patterns.

Finally, Colossians 3:17 reminds me, "And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord, giving thanks to God the Father through him." (NIV 1984)

Everything I do and say tells a story of who I serve. If I act out of anger and spite, I give in to the ways of the enemy, spreading his darkness. If I honor the Lord with my actions, I serve to further the Name of Jesus and spread His light.

At the end of the day, honoring God leads to good things. Anything else leads to confusion, emotional exhaustion and a lack of good things.

I processed the text message mentioned above with my husband. He said something that brought much clarity. "Lysa, you know when you've taken the high road, God blesses you. You've seen these blessings over and over as you've made choices that honor God. So chose a blessing today and save yourself the emotional turmoil of trying to prove you're right."

He's a smart man.

I know this isn't easy stuff. I'm having to live it in the midst of feeling hurt. But I'm also feeling more at peace being able to see another perspective—a healthier perspective—a biblical perspective. And I'm really excited about the blessings that are surely coming my way.

Dear Lord, You know the hurtful words and actions that have been pummeled my way. Please give me Your strength to not retaliate, but instead to react based on Your Truth. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
Whether right or wrong, learning to control our reactions is sometimes difficult. In Lysa's new book, Unglued, she shares personal experience and scriptural wisdom to help us make healthy decisions with our reactions. Click here to order your copy today!

The accompanying Unglued Bible Study will help you understand what the Bible says about better ways to react. To order your copy, click here.

Are you ready to start learning to make wise choices in the midst of raw emotions but don't want to start it alone? On August 23rd at 8 p.m. EST we'll be hosting a FREE UngluedWebcast with a powerful message from Lysa TerKeurst to get you going. We'll also be featuring the radio personalities from K-Love! Please join us at www.klove.com. No makeup, shoes or preparation required. Sign up for the Unglued webcast email reminder here.

Reflect and Respond:
Are you struggling with an insensitive or down right mean person? Choose one inconvenient truth to pray and live out of.

At the end of the day, honoring God leads to good things. Anything else leads to confusion, emotional exhaustion and a lack of good things.

Power Verses:
James 1:19-20, "My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires." (NIV)

© 2012 by Lysa TerKeurst. All rights reserved.

[Judy Harder]

 August 3, 2012

Choice Points
T. Suzanne Eller


"And your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, 'This is the way, walk in it,' when you turn to the right or when you turn to the left." Isaiah 30:21 (ESV)

According to recent statistics, I made 5,000 decisions today. Seriously?

Well, I made a decision to get out of bed. I made a choice to put on my tennis shoes and run at 6 a.m.

I chose peanut butter Cheerios™ over oatmeal. I decided which bills to pay. What to make for dinner. Whether to answer a phone call. Which clothes to wear. Whether the plants needed watering or if they could wait another day. I chose to fill up the small car instead of the gas-guzzler.

I may have made more than 5,000 decisions today!

Some of our every day choices are random, others weighty, but many of our decisions are choice points. Choice points are seemingly insignificant decisions yet they lead us in one direction or another.

I choose whether to react in anger, or respond with understanding to my husband.

I choose whether or not to create drama with a friend who hurt my feelings.

I choose time with my Heavenly Father, or push that time to another day . . . again.

I choose whether or not to say those words that cause my child pain.

Recently I was on a mission trip and the team was exhausted after nearly six days of intense travel. We had missed a train and stood on the platform in the moonlight. It was nearing midnight and cold and wet. Our next ministry event was early in the morning.

The coordinator walked over. "I'm so sorry," she said. "I didn't mean for it to work out this way."

There I stood at a choice point.

I could share my frustration. I could explain that my sleep tank was on empty. I could say nothing, while sighing with a martyred expression.

As she waited for my reply, I reminded myself what a privilege it was to to be there. That ease and comfort were never offered our Savior, and Iosing a little sleep was nothing in comparison to anything He went through. I reminded myself that everyone around me was just as tired as I was.

"I'm fine," I said, "In fact it's been an amazing day and I can't wait to see what God does tomorrow."

She grabbed me and pulled me in a huge hug. "Thank you, Suz."

I wish I could say I handle every choice point that way, but sometimes I fail. It's my prayer that I'll remember how much those choice points matter. You see, they don't just affect me; they affect those within the vicinity of my decisions, throwing them into a choice point of their own.

In the 5,000 decisions you make today, how many of them will be choice points?

How will your response affect the people around you?

What can you do differently as you make the next 5,000 choices tomorrow?

Dear Lord, I sometimes feel overwhelmed by all my choices, and it makes me cranky. Today as I make my 5000 decisions, walk with me, remind me of how my choices affect others and help me choose wisely. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
Do You Know Him?

Visit Suzie's blog for encouraging verses and tips to help you make wise choice points and a giveaway of Lysa TerKeurst's new book, Unglued.

Unglued: Making Wise Choices in the Midst of Raw Emotions by Lysa TerKeurst

30 Days to Taming Your Tongue and accompanying Workbook by Deborah Smith Pegues

When you purchase resources through Proverbs 31 Ministries, you touch eternity because your purchase supports the many areas of hope-giving ministry we provide at no cost. We wish we could, but we simply can't compete with prices offered by huge online warehouses. Therefore, we are extremely grateful for each and every purchase you make with us. Thank you!

Reflect and Respond:
Keep a journal this week of choice points. Note those that lead you in the wrong direction. Are there common themes?

If you were overtired, how can you implement rest?

If you were trying to live a packed life with your spiritual tank unfilled, will you stop and fill it up?

Power Verses:
Proverbs 16:9, "The heart of man plans his way, but the LORD establishes his steps." (ESV)

Philippians 4:8, "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things." (ESV)

© 2012 by T. Suzanne Eller. All rights reserved.

[Judy Harder]

August 6, 2012

The Opinion Blender
Amy Carroll


"Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing." Proverbs 12:18 (NIV 1984)

I stood in exhausted shock after the first women's ministry event I coordinated. I was the hero of the day, and I couldn't quite take it all in. After waving good-bye to the gushing attendees, I looked at my friend Peggy and said, "I have no idea what to do with all of that praise."

She smiled wickedly. "Don't worry. The criticism is coming."

She was right.

When in a position of leadership of ANY kind—pastor, speaker, women's ministry director, Sunday school teacher, mother, project manager, executive—you will be thrown into the world of opinions. They'll swirl you around like a blender, and if you're not careful, they'll totally spin you silly, chop up your self-confidence and make you into a soupy mess.

Author and pastor Mark Driscoll has been quoted as saying, "Pastors (insert your position here) have lots of foes and lots of fans but very few friends." That's a truth that resonates with many types of leaders. I personally struggled with identifying who were my foes, fans and friends. When I received feedback, it varied from constructive criticism to harsh critiques to sweet compliments. Talk about leaving my head and heart spinning!

Some wisdom gained along the way has helped me navigate the opinion blender with more insight and grace.

Dealing with Criticism
Pastor Perry Noble gives this sage advice, "If you listen to the criticism, you'll think you're worse than you are. If you listen to the praise, you'll think you're better than you are. If you listen to your friends, you'll stay on the tight rope of balance."

I've struggled with wild swings of thinking I must be the pits to thinking I've finally got it all together. Both extremes are dangerous places. Instead of living on the fringes of shame or pride, I'm learning to turn off the opinion blender and rest in God's truth about me, as well as the counsel of people who care about me.

I surround myself with truth-telling friends who love me deeply despite my flaws, but also have a clear view of those flaws. They're the ones who don't shrink back from telling the truth, but who stir love, kindness and gentleness into the hard things I need to hear. They celebrate my successes and mourn my defeats.

Processing Praise
My friend Jane, a gifted worship leader and singer, paraphrased a quote from Corrie ten Boom when she passed on her secret to receiving praise. "I take each compliment as a flower, and at the end of the day, I give the bouquet to Jesus."

Her advice has helped me respond to praise. Because I want to respect the giver without seeming flippant about their kind words, I'm not comfortable saying, "Give Jesus all the glory" every time someone says something nice. But I want Jesus to get all the glory.

Now, I simply say "thank you" and receive the "flower" gratefully. At the end of the day, I gather each compliment in my mind and gratefully give Jesus the beautiful bouquet in prayer. It's not only a joy to return to Jesus what is His, it's a sure way to hit the "stop" button on the opinion blender in my head.

If you're in leadership, I want to encourage you. You're not as bad as your foes say. You're also not as wonderful as your fans say. (Smile). The truth is somewhere in between.

Like me, you're not perfect, so learning to receive helpful criticism is part of growth. Welcoming praise as encouragement and then passing Jesus the compliment helps us calm the swirl of the "opinion blender." And most importantly, both help us remember we are loved servants of God on a journey to being like Jesus.

When His Truths permeate us, His opinion becomes the one that gives faithful guidance, soothes our hearts and settles our souls.

Dear Lord, help me find the balance of truth in how I receive both criticism and praise. I want to learn from legitimate criticism and return the praise to You. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
Do You Know Him?

Gain valuable wisdom about leadership and speaking from Amy Carroll through Next Step Speaker Services.

Visit Amy's blog for more insight on giving praise that counts.

For the Write Reason and The Reason We Speak General Editor Marybeth Whalen

Reflect and Respond:
Who has "earned the right" to tell you hard truths?

How can you be this kind of faithful friend to others?

Power Verses:
Proverbs 15:12, "A mocker resents correction; he will not consult the wise." (NIV 1984)

Proverbs 15:31, "He who listens to a life-giving rebuke will be at home among the wise." (NIV 1984)

© 2012 by Amy Carroll. All rights reserved.

[Judy Harder]

 August 7, 2012

Criticism Hurts
Lysa TerKeurst


"The tongue of the wise adorns knowledge but the mouth of the fool gushes folly." Proverbs 15:2 (NIV)

It was one of those voicemails that left me rubbing the sides of my head wondering, "Why me? Why today?" I was blindsided by the criticism and felt this would be the perfect time to find a hole and crawl into it.

Criticism hurts. No matter who you are, how many people are encouraging you, and how happy you felt before you got "that call" or "that email," one drop of critical yuck spreads fast and furious.

Oh how I wish I had a little "criticism antidote" to make it all better. I don't. But I do have a little sermonette I preach to myself when criticized.

When someone criticizes, I've got to quickly discern if they are trying to help me or hurt me.

No criticism is fun, but it can be helpful if it is from a wise person speaking words that are truly intended to help us. Proverbs 15:2a says, "The tongue of the wise adorns knowledge ..." To me, a wise person is someone who:

• Cares enough about me to get their facts straight and isn't speaking out of assumption.

• Has talked to God and reflects a gentle, caring tone in their communication.

• And wraps their criticism with grace and humility.

This kind of criticism is given with the intent of sharing helpful wisdom that is constructive rather destructive.

If the criticism is destructive and hurtful, I must remember the second part of Proverbs 15:2b, "... but the mouth of the fool gushes folly." The definition of folly is a "lack of understanding or sense."

We need to remember this kind of harsh and unnecessary criticism says a lot more about their insecurities than our inadequacies.

We can't fix whatever hurt caused them to lash out. But we can decide to stay calm and not compound the hurt. "A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger."(Proverbs 15:1 NIV)

No matter what kind of criticism we get—helpful or hurtful—it still stings. And we might not feel like being calm at first. When I returned the call that left my heart racing and my head pounding, I didn't feel like being calm. I had to choose to be calm despite my feelings. I'm learning that staying calm is as much of a gift to myself as it is to the one criticizing me.

Dear Lord, I know You are not a God of condemnation and criticism. Teach me to hold my tongue and trust in You when I am hurt by those around me. I want to be able to take the criticism that is helpful and leave the criticism that is hurtful, but I know that only through You can I do this without the weight of condemnation. Thank You for Your gentle conviction and patience with me. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
Sometimes it can be really hard to keep our emotions in control when we feel like we are being attacked with criticism. Lysa's new book, Unglued, is releasing today! In it she shares personal experience and scriptural wisdom to help us make better decisions with our reactions. Click here to order!

The accompanying Unglued Bible Study will help you understand what the Bible says about better ways to react. To order your copy, click here.

We'd love to share a chapter of Unglued with you! Click here to read a section of this life-changing book and hop over to the Unglued website. It's a great resource to help equip you in making lasting changes.

Are you ready to start learning to make wise choices in the midst of raw emotions but don't want to start alone? On August 23rd at 8 p.m. EST we'll be hosting a FREE UngluedWebcast with a powerful message from Lysa TerKeurst to get you going. We'll also be featuring the radio personalities from K-Love! Please join us at www.klove.com. No makeup, shoes or preparation required. Sign up to receive an email reminder here.

Reflect and Respond:
What criticism is God calling you to lay aside right now? If you are criticizing others, how is God calling you be an encourager instead of a criticizer?

"Staying calm is as much of a gift to myself as it is to the one criticizing me."

Power Verses:
Romans 15:4, "For whatever things were written before were written for our learning, that through patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope." (NKJV)

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

© 2012 by Lysa TerKeurst. All rights reserved.



August 8, 2012

When Aggravation Accumulates
Lysa TerKeurst


"Be angry, and yet do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, and do not give the devil an opportunity." - Ephesians 4:26-27 (NASB)

I opened the door and smiled, "Four large pizzas, right?"

The look on the pizza guy's face told me the many teenagers in my back yard were about to be disappointed.

"Ummm, well, actually there's only two. Let me check your ticket ... oh, yeah you're supposed to have four. Give me 20 minutes and I'll be back with the other two." He explained.

I took the two he had and said, "No problem. The kids can start on these and have round two when you get back."

As I walked into the kitchen, my husband Art gave me a funny look. "I thought you ordered four pizzas."

"Yeah, the delivery guy forgot two but will be back in a few minutes. No big deal," I quipped with a shoulder shrug.

Art tilted his head. "You didn't even ask for a discount or coupons?"

"I felt bad for the guy. It's not a big deal to ask the kids to wait a few minutes," I replied with a smile.

Remembering the way I'd reacted earlier during a little "growth opportunity" we'd had, Art said, "Wow. I'd like to have that kind of grace."

Ouch. His point was well made. I'd gotten aggravated with something Art had done and let him know.

Why is it I'm so quick to give a gentle answer to a stranger but spew on those I love? I think it's because of accumulated impact.

This was the only time I'd ever seen the pizza guy. My emotions toward him were completely neutral. When he made a mistake, I was able to let it go.

But I have a history with Art. We do lots of life together. If I let aggravations collect, my emotions ratchet up creating more and more tension. Then, when something happens, I find it much harder to brush off and offer grace.

Accumulated aggravations equal accumulated impact.

Therefore, it's crucial I don't collect aggravations. I've heard many times: "Do not let the sun go down on your anger ..." (Ephesians 4:26) I know it. But honestly sometimes I ignore it. I collect aggravations because I'm too tired to talk. Or, I don't want to deal with it. Or, I try to convince myself it's not a big deal to go to bed mad.

But when I keep reading one more verse, Ephesians 4:27, I understand why I should deal with little aggravations when they are still little. They might not stay little long. Why? Because verse 27 finishes with a strong warning, "... and do not give the devil an opportunity."

Yikes.

The devil is just waiting for an opportunity. I picture him hissing, "Go to bed mad ... go to bed mad ... oh yes go to bed mad and give me an opportunity." That just sends shivers down my spine.

As it well should.

I love my husband. I get aggravated with my man. But I love him. So, I certainly don't want to open the door of opportunity for the devil to turn little aggravations into big ones.

I put down the pizza and kissed Art's cheek. "I love you and I'm sorry I didn't give you that kind of grace."

To which he replied back with a big smile, "I still think we should have asked for a discount or coupons."

Like I said, I love my man!

Dear Lord, I really want to follow Your example and live a life full of grace. Sometimes it is so hard to show grace to those closest to me. Help me. I don't want to give the devil any opportunities in my marriage, my relationships with my children, or in my friendships. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
Do you want to stop accumulating aggravation and start showing more grace to those around you? Lysa TerKeurst's new book Unglued, shares wonderful wisdom to lead you in making those changes. Click here to order your copy today!

Nothing changes us like Scripture. The accompanying Unglued Bible Study is a great resource to get us into the Word of God, and help us choose better reactions. To order your copy, click here.

We'd love to share a chapter of Unglued with you! Click here to read a section of this life-changing book and hop over to the Unglued website. It's a great resource to help equip you in making wise choices in the midst of raw emotions.

Reflect and Respond:
Think about the equation, accumulated aggravation = accumulated impact. Choose one relationship in your life. In what ways has allowing yourself to accumulate aggravations resulted in a lack of grace and possible strain in that relationship?

What actions can we take to safeguard our relationships against the devil's attempts to create conflict and separation?

Power Verses:
Colossians 4:6, "Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone." (NIV)

1 Peter 5:8, "Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour." (NIV)

© 2012 by Lysa TerKeurst. All rights reserved.

[Judy Harder]

 August 9, 2012

Exploding
Melissa Taylor


"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)

I was in shock as I watched the explosion! Rude and venomous words were screamed out; words you don't want your child to hear. When the Little League umpire made a game-deciding call the coach didn't like, the coach made sure everyone knew how much he disagreed.

He got in the baseball commissioner's face expressing his irate opinion in no uncertain terms. To drive his point home, he marched over to the other coach and began to shout in his face too. This man had come completely unglued, spewing his anger on everyone around him.

The coach's lack of self-control and harsh words brought down two teams, their parents, and officials. His uncontrolled verbal explosion caused a ripple effect and ruined what should have been a great day for many people.

Maybe you've been caught in the path of an exploder too. One minute you're at a happy family gathering, and before you know it, a feud between your uncle and cousin escalates into a shouting match. One of them storms out, everyone else is stressed out and sad, and the day is ruined.

Perhaps you're at work ready to tackle the day only to be met by a disgruntled boss. He barks a few negative words and suddenly you are left walking on eggshells.

Possibly the explosive actions that make you tense are from someone closer, like a spouse or a child.

Or maybe the harsh behavior is coming from . . . you.

Our key verse, Ephesians 4:29, tells us to use our words to build others up. If we continue reading in Ephesians 4, we are told that we should also "Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice." (vs. 31) Yet too often we react before considering this truth or a better response.

Sometimes curbing our anger and choosing calm words isn't what we want to do, or at times even feel capable of doing. Whether we are on the receiving end of the explosion, or the giving end, we have a choice in what words and tone we use.

God's Word encourages us to respond in a more gracious, effective and self-controlled way. By doing this, not only will our lives have less stress and more peace, but we will also be building up instead of tearing down those around us.

Dear Lord, help me think about how my words and actions affect those around me. I want to honor You in all I say and do. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
Sometimes it can be really hard to keep our emotions in control when life doesn't go the way we want it to. In Lysa TerKeurst's new book, Unglued, she shares personal experience and scriptural wisdom to help us make godly and healthy decisions with our reactions. Click here to order today!

The Unglued Online Bible Study with Melissa Taylor is a community of women who will join online to dig deeper into the Word and further into lasting peace. Sign up today to join this encouraging community!

For tips on dealing with the difficult people in your life and for a chance to win an Unglued Bundle (book and DVD), visit Melissa's blog.

Reflect and Respond:
Think ahead and plan ways you can react the next time you are faced with a difficult person or situation.

Are you able to keep your emotions in tact or do you battle the need to be heard and be right?

Power Verses:
Ephesians 4:31, "Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice." (NIV)

Proverbs 15:1, "A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger." (NIV 1984)

© 2012 by Melissa Taylor. All rights reserved.

[Judy Harder]

August 10, 2012

Turning Complaining Into Praise
Wendy Pope


"It is good to praise the Lord ... For you make me glad by your deeds, O Lord; I sing for joy at the works of your hands." - Psalm 92:1-4 (NIV 1984)

A few months ago I noticed the climate in my home had changed. It seemed nothing was good enough, attitudes were negative and a lot was being taken for granted. Appreciation had turned to complaint and contentment to displeasure. My family was snippy and short in our treatment of one another.

One day I had had enough and declared, "This has got to stop!"

The Lord whispered the word praise to my heart and showed me we had become praise-less. On the way home from my kids' school I issued the following decree: "From today forward we are going to be a grateful family, thanking God for everything He does. Whether the blessing is big or small, direct or indirect, we are going to praise Him."

I purchased a small notebook and placed it and a pen on our TV stand. Later that day, I peeked inside and was delighted to read my daughter had recorded the first praise. "I made brownies today. Dance Central and Kinect gives me a way to exercise inside." The days followed with more praises recorded from our whole family.

• Mrs. Macedo, my English teacher
• Selling 31 boxes of Girl Scout cookies
• Daddy's job
• Family devotions this morning
• 85 boxes of Girl Scout cookies sold
• Erin is spending the night
• My ticket was thrown out of court (This was my personal favorite)

The more we gave thanks, the more our attitudes changed.

In today's key verse, the psalmist teaches us that praising God is good. There is something mysteriously powerful about giving glory to the Lord. The joy created by my family's praise transformed the once unpleasant climate to one that is now warm and accepting, appreciative and complimentary.

Is our home always full of compliments and kindness? No, we are human and can easily fall back into complaining. But our family's praise book has made us more aware of God's goodness and we give praise more readily. We've experienced how good it really is to praise God.

Every day gives us opportunities to worship God, whether they seem minute or mighty. Through praise, our burdens don't seem so heavy and our life becomes a sweet fragrance to those around us.

Try it. Try praising God for the parking space close to the door or the one far away because you have the opportunity to enjoy being outdoors. Praise Him for the kindness of the bank teller. Praise Him for the opportunity to wake up and hear creation's symphony of praise, even if it is 5:00 am on a Saturday and the dog woke you up.

Give praise today. It's good for you and will transform you and others.

Dear Lord, I want to sing a song of praise everyday in response to Your goodness. Prick my heart to praise You in the minute and the mighty. You are worthy! In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
Would you like to bring the message of this devotion to the women of your church? Click here to find out more about considering Wendy Pope as your next retreat / key note speaker.

Visit Wendy's blog for a glimpse at her family's "Praise Book."

31 Days of Praise by Ruth and Warren Myers

Living Free in Christ CD teaching by Wendy Pope

When you purchase resources through Proverbs 31 Ministries, you touch eternity because your purchase supports the many areas of hope-giving ministry we provide at no cost. We wish we could, but we simply can't compete with prices offered by huge online warehouses. Therefore, we are extremely grateful for each and every purchase you make with us. Thank you!

Reflect and Respond:
What can you praise God for today? Read all of Psalm 150 aloud and praise God each time He pricks your heart to do so.

Purchase an inexpensive notebook. Declare a decree of praise and record all of God's goodness to you.

Power Verses:
Psalm 96:2, "Sing to the LORD, praise his name; proclaim his salvation day after day." (NIV)

Psalm 96:4a, "For great is the LORD and most worthy of praise." (NIV)

Psalm 150:6, "Let everything that has breath praise the LORD. Praise the LORD." (NIV)

© 2012 by Wendy Pope. All rights reserved.

[Judy Harder]

 August 13, 2012

Disappointment
Lysa TerKeurst


"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." Romans 8:28 (NIV)

The other day a friend asked me if I ever get disappointed. I said yes and threw out a spiritually sound answer. Then the next day it happened. A really big disappointment whacked me upside the head and sent my heart sinking. I'd been asked to be part of a really big event—one of the biggest of my life—and then things fell apart.

Invited, thrilled, excited, honored, and included, turned into . . . uninvited, bummed, saddened, disillusioned, and left out. And while I still had solid spiritual perspectives to hold on to, my flesh just needed a minute to say, "Stink!"

Because sometimes things do stink. And disappointments come up that make us doubt God really does work for our good, like today's key verse reminds us.

Right when I wanted say "stink" a few more times, I spotted a bowl that'd been sitting on my dining room table for weeks. My daughter Brooke found some caterpillars a while back, put them in a bowl, and had been holding them hostage ever since. I mean she'd been lovingly admiring them underneath a layer of cellophane.

Wouldn't you know that those caterpillars formed cocoons inside that unlikely environment. And then, as I was muttering, "Stink!" I glanced across the table to that bowl and sucked the word back down my throat.

The cocoons were empty.

Expecting glorious butterflies, I was confused when I got right over the bowl and closely examined the product of my little girl's hopes for new life.

Moths.

I just had to chuckle. Yet another thing in my day that wasn't quite right.

Or was it?

When Brooke spotted the moths, she was beyond thrilled. Grabbing my hand, she led me outside, ripped off the plastic barrier, and watched the beauty of tiny wings beating . . . beating . . . beating . . . and finally fluttering into flight.

Hmmmm.

As I watched Brooke's sheer delight, I realized she couldn't have cared less if they were moths or butterflies. Creatures that once only knew the dirt of the earth had just been given the gift of flight. Reaching, soaring up, up, and away.

And with that realization, this simple creature pulled up the corners of her mouth into a smile.

I decided to take one step away from disappointment and take one step toward the good God was working through the loss of the speaking event. I don't know why that amazing opportunity was offered to me, only to be taken away. But I do know this . . . I'd rather rejoice in what is and what will be, than wallow in what isn't. After all, disappointment only stings as long as I let it.

Dear Lord, thank You for Your mercies and patience in this journey of imperfect progress. Forgive me for allowing disappointment to capture my heart so easily. Adjust my perspective and help me to see the things You have brought to life in me. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
Sometimes it can be really hard to keep our emotions in control on a daily basis. In Lysa's new book, Unglued, she shares personal experience and scriptural wisdom to help us make right, godly and healthy decisions with our reactions. Click here to order your copy today!

Want to know what kind of reactor you are? Wish you could be equipped to better handle disappointment and conflict in your relationships? On August 23rd at 8 p.m. EST we'll be hosting a FREE Unglued Webcast with a powerful message from Lysa to get you going. We'll also be featuring the radio personalities from K-Love! Please join us at www.klove.com. No makeup, shoes, or preparation required.

Sign up to receive an email reminder about this FREE webcast by clicking here.

The accompanying Unglued Bible Study will help you understand what the Bible says about better ways to react. To order your copy, click here.

Reflect and Respond:
Think of a disappointing situation and the way you reacted to it.

How might the perspective, "Disappointment only stings as long as I let it," have changed your initial reaction?

Power Verses:
Romans 5:5, "And hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us." (ESV)

Colossians 3:23-24, "Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ." (ESV)

© 2012 by Lysa TerKeurst. All rights reserved.

Proverbs 31 Ministries
616-G Matthews-Mint Hill Road
Matthews, NC 28105
www.Proverbs31.org

[Judy Harder]

August 14, 2012

Dear God, Where Are You?
Lysa TerKeurst


"God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble." Psalm 46:1 (NIV)

"Mom, I didn't make it. Please pray for me. I just feel confused about God."

I felt my daughter's deep hurt as clearly as if it were my own. I know what it feels like to want something so badly and have that dream shut down. That door closed. That opportunity slipped away.

She had been talking about trying for this special achievement at summer camp for 3 years. But she wasn't old enough to try until this year, her 4th year at camp.

She met every challenge and could see the goal in sight ... until it was time for her to light a large campfire with only three matches, one small square of newspaper, and a few sticks of wood.

She struck the first match and held it to the newspaper but it didn't ignite. She struck the second match and held it to the newspaper. It still didn't ignite.

She stared at the third and final match. Knowing a big part of the challenge was teaching the kids how to communicate with God and fully rely on Him, she'd been praying through every stage. But now, she didn't just pray—she cried out to God.

"Please help me, God. Please," she mouthed as she struck the third match. She held the flame to the paper and watched in complete disbelief. The matchstick burned but the paper did not.

As the final match burned out, she lowered her head in defeat.

Nine girls tried for this highest honor of finishing the challenge. Three girls didn't make it, including my daughter.

When I picked her up a week later, she asked if we could process this situation. What bothered her most wasn't not getting the camp honor. What bothered her most was not experiencing God's power like the other girls.

They all had stories of God answering their cries for help in amazing ways through the challenge.

"Mom, I didn't get that with God. Why?"

It was one of those questions you don't want to mess up in answering.

I asked her to recall every step of her challenge so we could intentionally look for God's hand. I listened intently for anything unusual and unexplainable.

When she got to the fire, I found it. There was no reason her newspaper shouldn't light. None at all. Everyone else's paper lit.

"Honey, that can only be explained by God intervening. He was there. He was listening. And we just have to trust there was some reason you shouldn't have continued that challenge. We may not know that reason, but we can certainly trust God was protecting you ... loving you ... revealing His power to you."

She put her head on my shoulder, "You really think so Mom?"

I whispered, "I know so."

I know so because I trust the truth God has given me. Truths like these are anchors that hold me to the reality of who God is.

He is the One in whom I find comfort and reassurance: "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." John 16:33 (NIV)

He is right here with me in the midst of my trouble, I am not alone: "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble." Psalm 46:1 (NIV)

He is the One who can use my tears to water the soil of my heart so that it can one day be a harvest of joy: "Those who sow with tears will reap with songs of joy." Psalm 126:5 (NIV)

Yes, I know deep hurt. But I also know deep hope. So, I whispered it again, "Yes, sweetheart, I know so."

Sometimes God's power is shown as much in preventing things as it is in making them happen. We may never know the why. But we can always know and trust the Who.

Dear Lord, thank You for knowing what I need and what I don't—even when I don't agree. Teach me to trust You and look for Your hand in every situation. Help me see Your 'yes' and 'no' as protection and guidance. Today, I choose to trust You. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
Sometimes it's hard to understand why God prevents something when we want Him to provide it. If you're looking for a friend to help you process your emotions in the hard times, Lysa does this in her gut-honest new book, Unglued. Click here to order your copy.

Nothing changes us like Scripture. The accompanying Unglued Bible Study is a great resource to get us into the Word of God and help us choose emotionally healthy, Godly reactions. To order your copy, click here.

We would love for you to join us for the Unglued Bible Study. Proverbs 31 Ministries is starting an Unglued online Bible Study hosted by Melissa Taylor and Lysa TerKeurst on Sunday, September 23rd. Don't worry, this Bible Study won't require you to leave your house, change out of your pajamas, or even put on makeup! Click here to sign up.

Reflect and Respond:
Look back at a situation where you felt God didn't answer your prayers. Can you see His power in not allowing your prayer to be answered? Be specific. It's important to acknowledge God's provision and protection.

Write out your prayers today. Focus on trusting who God is and not why He is choosing not to answer or delaying His response. Remind yourself, "God's power is shown as much in preventing things as it is in making them happen."

Power Verse:
Psalm 145:18, "The LORD is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth." (NIV 1984)

© 2012 by Lysa TerKeurst. All rights reserved.

[Judy Harder]

August 15, 2012

Lord I Want to Know You
Renee Swope


"Those who know your name trust you, O Lord, because you have never deserted those who seek your help." - Psalm 9:10 (GW)

I had heard great things about her, but it wasn't until we worked in the same office that I really got to know her. Yet, there were certain traits I only discovered by "doing life" with LeAnn, like her dry sense of humor and her unique way of making each person feel noticed and loved.

As our friendship deepened, LeAnn became someone I could depend on. But honestly, I only discovered she was dependable when I needed to depend on her and she came through for me.

I've found that our relationship with God grows closer in the same way. We may have heard things about God, but we won't really know Him until we spend time with Him - talking, listening and observing who He is and depending on Him.

We learn to trust His heart by interacting with Him and experiencing His character in personal ways.

In the book of Judges, chapter 6, an angel of the Lord appeared before Gideon and told him that he was going to become a mighty warrior and defeat a huge army of his enemies. But Gideon didn't believe him.

You see, Gideon only knew about God. He had heard of His faithfulness in others' lives, but he didn't know God personally.

And it's hard to trust someone you don't know.

Gideon told the angel of the Lord, "If now I have found favor in your eyes, give me a sign that it is really you talking to me. Please do not go away until I come back and bring my offering and set it before you."

And the Lord said, 'I will wait until you return.'" (Judg. 6:17-18 NIV)

When Gideon brought his offering, the angel of the Lord touched it with the tip of his staff and fire flared from the rock, consuming it. Then Gideon realized it was in fact the angel of the Lord and exclaimed, "Alas, Sovereign LORD! I have seen the angel of the LORD face to face!" (v. 22b NIV).

Up to this point, Gideon had called Him "Lord." But now he used the word "Sovereign" to describe His Lord because he had experienced God's sovereignty.

Another layer of confidence was built when Gideon witnessed God's power.

Gideon must have looked terrified, because immediately, "the Lord said to him, 'Peace! Do not be afraid. You are not going to die'" (v. 23 NIV). I love what Gideon did next: "Gideon built an altar to the Lord there and called it The Lord Is Peace" (v. 24a NIV).

God had revealed His character by demonstrating His power and by giving Gideon peace to help him overcome his doubts and fears.

Gideon not only knew about God, now he was getting to know Him personally. He would learn that it's much easier to trust someone you know—someone you have experienced life with in a personal way.

Just like my friend LeAnn, my relationship with Jesus has grown closer over time and I've come to love Him as I have experienced His love for me. I've learned to depend on Him and trust Him deeply as I've come to know His heart and His character.

We will not know God as Jehovah Rapha, our Healer, until we experience and recognize His healing in our lives, whether spiritually, emotionally, mentally, or physically. We cannot know Him as Jehovah Jireh, our Provider, if we are not in need. We will not know Him as Jehovah Nissi, our Banner, unless we need Him for victory.

We will grow in our relationship with Jesus and our confidence in Him will deepen as we live in the promise of today's key verse: "Those who know your name trust you, O Lord, because you have never deserted those who seek your help." (Psalm 9:10 GW)

Dear Lord, I want to know You for who You really are. I desire to trust and follow You more and more each day. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
If you want to grow in your intimacy with Christ and learn to live in the security of Who He is and who you are in Him, don't miss Renee Swope's book: A Confident Heart: How to Stop Doubting Yourself & Live in the Security of God's Promises.

Visit Renee's FREE resources page on her website for an expanded list of God's names.

Connect with Renee on Facebook for more life-changing perspectives and promises from God's Word!

Reflect and Respond:
Keep a list of several of God's Names to remind you of who God is. It also helps to say His names out loud and thank God for being each of these things for you; to say, Lord, thank You that You are ...

Emmanuel: My God with Me (Matt. 1:22 - 23)
El Roi: The God Who Sees Me (Gen. 16:13 - 14)
El Sali: God of My Strength (Ps. 42:9)
Jehovah Rohi: The Lord My Shepherd (Ps. 23:1)
Jehovah Shammah: The Lord Is There for Me (Ezek. 48:35)

For a list of more of God's names click here.

Power Verse:
Proverbs 18:10, "The name of the Lord is a strong fortress; the godly run to him and are safe." (NLT)

© 2012 by Renee Swope. All rights reserved.

[Judy Harder]

August 16, 2012

When People Drive You Crazy
Luann Prater


"If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone." Romans 12:18 (NIV)

Live at peace with everyone? Easier said than done, right? Especially when that one person is pushing their agenda (and your buttons) and becomes upset if you don't embrace it. But our key verse, Romans 12:18, encourages us that as far as it depends on us, we're to live at peace with everyone.

One way God's helped me do this is regularly placing 'grinders' in my life. Grinders are those people who grind you until all of your shine is worn away! They drive you crazy and drive you far away from their friendship.

Not long ago I met Sue at a friend's house. She followed me from room to room and decided she must become my best friend. We didn't have much in common but that didn't stop Sue from calling, texting and emailing—first occasionally, then constantly.

For some reason, she thought I could fill a hole in her life. Unfortunately, it began to wear a hole in mine.

When I didn't have time to talk or respond she became agitated and hurt. It was obvious this friendship was capsizing and in need of a check up.

When a relationship like this one begins to wear me out, absorb my life, or create chaos, I try to check three things:

Have I listened with compassion and responded in love? It's important to evaluate my own behavior to see if I am contributing to the toxic relationship. Every situation has many factors and owning my part is key.

Set limits. People can only get in your space if you leave the door open! Decide what is healthy for you and draw a line there. How much time can you reasonably give? What are you willing to sacrifice to invest in this relationship? Pray that God will help you establish boundaries. Discuss and define them with your grinder.

Know when to walk away. Our key verse clearly says if it is possible, live at peace. That means there may be times when it's not possible. We may need to part ways for a season. God can redeem anything and often He brings folks back together after a time of separation.

As for Sue, I asked myself if I'd listened with compassion and responded in love. I prayed for God to highlight my behavior and point out any flaws in my reactions. He showed me some boundaries I needed to set with Sue in order to live at peace with her.

I took her to lunch and apologized for not being clear with the limits and time constraints in my life. We prayed together and asked God to fill the empty places in both of our lives. She appreciated the honesty and promised to honor our newly set boundary lines. Instead of sinking, our friendship became a sweet treasure.

Confronting difficult people is hard, but important, so you can control how much of a negative impact they have on you. And to live at peace with them. Our first step is adjusting our focus on the Prince of Peace and then our own behavior.

Want to take a personal challenge with me? Instead of avoiding our 'grinders'—let's grind to a halt, drop to our knees and pray for our friends today.

Dear Lord, how easy it is to fall into relationships that absorb our strength. Refocus our attention on You and how You want us to behave. Teach us how to set healthy boundaries in all of our relationships. May we always reflect Your Son. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
God's Purpose for Every Woman, a compilation of Encouragement for Today Devotions by Proverbs 31 Ministries authors

Visit Luann's blog and listen to her Encouragement Café radio show for loads of fun and spiritual application for real life!

Stress Point by Sarah Francis Martin

For more daily encouragement, visit our P31 Facebook page.

Reflect and Respond:
Write down a list of 'grinders' in your life and take time to pray for them.

Walk through the 3 steps above for each person who grinds you.

Power Verses:
Job 42:10, "After Job had prayed for his friends, the Lord made him prosperous again and gave him twice as much as he had before." (NIV 1984)

Proverbs 16:7, "When a man's ways are pleasing to the Lord, he makes even his enemies live at peace with him." (NIV)

© 2012 by Luann Prater. All rights reserved.