Encouragement for Today

[Judy Harder]

May 8, 2009

Cast and Present

Melissa Taylor

"Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall."  Psalm 55:22 (NIV)

Devotion:

We were driving home from my mom's house when it happened again.  I glanced in my rear view mirror and saw my son Hayden.  His eyes were fluttering and his face was pale.  I could tell he would be out in a matter of seconds. 

My husband stopped the car and I crawled quickly to the back, shouting Hayden's name.  His body went limp.  Although he was only out for about twenty seconds, it seemed like an hour.  This was the third time Hayden had passed out in the last two weeks.  I was so scared about his condition.  He had some tests scheduled, which hopefully would tell us and the doctors what was going on.

What was causing him to pass out?  Would the doctors be able to help him?

The next morning I opened my Bible study book, eager for some time with God.  I could not believe my eyes.  The title of the lesson was The Great Physician.  Immediately I felt a sense of comfort and peace over me.  I know the Great Physician well.  And I trust Him.  At that moment I was no longer worried about Hayden.  I knew he was in very capable hands, the mighty hands of the Great Physician.  Regardless of what happened, I know the Great Physician had great plans for Hayden, no matter his condition.

The Great Physician is here for all of us.  He wants us to come to Him for healing.  How stubborn we can be sometimes.  I remember once when I was sick.  I needed to go to the doctor but didn't feel like making an appointment, passing hours in a waiting room, and spending money on a prescription.  I figured I would feel better eventually.  I put it off each day until I was so sick I could hardly get out of bed.  Finally I went to the doctor.  He diagnosed me with strep throat, administered a very painful shot, and I was better within twenty four hours!  If only I had gone sooner I would have saved myself a lot of trouble!

The same is true with the Great Physician.  How many times do I worry for days or try to solve a problem on my own?  When I finally release it to Him, I think, Why didn't I turn it over to Him a long time ago?

God's Word tells us to "cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall" (Psalm 55:22).  It also reads, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God" (Philippians 4:6).

We aren't supposed to fix ourselves.  We aren't supposed to worry and fret.  We are supposed to "cast" and "present."  Cast our cares and burdens to God, and present our requests to Him.  When we do what His Word tells us to do, we can then experience peace and comfort (Philippians 4:7).

I'm happy to report that Hayden is fine.  I can hear him in the next room right now talking and laughing with his little sister.  I'm so thankful for the laughter.  I'm so thankful for the Great Physician who has given me a peace so that I can enjoy the laughter.

Dear Lord, in our lives there will be times of trial and fear.  Remind us to cast our cares and present our requests to You, and leave them there.  Thank You for the peace only You can give.  In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

Do you know the Great Physician?

Little Blessings from a Big God: Finding More of God through the Lives of Your Children by Michelle Medlock Adams

Walk with Me Today, Lord: Inspiring Devotions for Women by Emilie Barnes
Visit Melissa's blog
Application Steps: 

The next time you find yourself carrying more than you can handle, cast and present.   

Reflections: 

When was the last time I asked the Great Physician for help?

Is there a burden I am carrying that I need to give up?

Power Verses:

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

Matthew 6:34, "Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself.  Each day has enough trouble of it's own." (NIV)

© 2009 by Melissa Taylor. All rights reserved.

Proverbs 31 Ministries

616-G Matthews-Mint Hill Road

Matthews, NC 28105

www.proverbs31.org

[Judy Harder]

May 11, 2009

What if Jesus Walked in Your Church?

Glynnis Whitwer

"For where two or three have gathered together in My name,
I am there in their midst." Matthew 18:20 (NAS)
         
Devotion:

Singing in the worship band gives me a unique viewpoint of our church on Sundays. On my assigned weeks, I stand on stage waiting for the service to begin. People are still filing in as the pre-recorded music stops and the worship leader steps up to the microphone to welcome the congregation. The lights dim as the tap of the drumsticks signal the band to begin.

Soon the swell of the music and a chorus of voices -- young and old -- fill the room. By the second song, the house lights are completely off and the only lights shining in the room are on us. Except for the back door. And that's where I face.

Each time the door opens to let in latecomers, outside light shines brightly for a brief moment. From where I stand, it's like a spot light. It's so bright, and so far away, that I can't see the faces of those who come in late. But every once in awhile I dream ... sort of one of those awakening dreams. But this one feels real. I dream that Jesus walks in.

In my mind, I see Him walking up the aisle. No one notices Him because their eyes are focused on the words on the screen, or they are closed in worship. He slowly looks left then right. He keeps on walking toward the front. Finally, He reaches the steps below me and slowly ascends them. When He gets to the top of the stage, He turns to receive the worship that is being offered Him.

I wonder what Jesus feels as He looks out over the flock of people. Is He pleased? Is He frustrated that so many minds are on today's lunch? Does He want to reach out and grab the hands that are raised in worship?

Sometimes I long to see Jesus walk in my church so desperately, I can feel my heart pound. Can you imagine what would happen? Can you imagine how people would grab their friends with diseases and go running toward Him? Can you imagine parents carrying their hurting children to Him? The press of people would be intense. Those with addictions, emotional hurts and illnesses would stretch out their hands just to touch Him. People would drop to their knees in adoration.

Before I "awake" and realize it is only a dream, I remember the words of Jesus: "For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them" (Matthew 18:20). And I realize that Jesus has come to my church. He is there to receive my worship. He is there to touch the hands of the broken hearted. He longs to heal those who are hurting.

Unfortunately, many times I'm simply hoping that God will "show up." As if He might be too busy to stop by my church that day. Yet by Jesus' very own words, He is already there. My waking dream is a reality. Maybe Jesus doesn't stand next to me, but He's in the room. I need that truth to soak into my heart every time I gather with other believers.

The same Jesus who healed the blind man and raised the dead, has come to our church this week.

Dear Lord, thank You for the amazing reality of Jesus. Thank You that I can count on Your Word to be true, and for You to be present whenever two or more believers are gathered. Help me to really understand what this means, and to have this truth revitalize my worship and prayers. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

Do You Know Him?

Submit a Prayer Request

Worship: Nearing the Heart of God by Brian T. Anderson and Glynnis Whitwer

Visit Glynnis' Blog

Application Steps: 

Take a few moments and close your eyes. In your mind, picture your church sanctuary and Jesus walking in and sitting down next to you before the service starts. Imagine Him saying, "Hello" and wrapping His arms around you. Just enjoy that feeling for a moment.

Reflections: 

How would our church services, or small group meetings, change if Jesus were physically present in the room?

If Jesus was coming to your church this Sunday, who would you bring? What would you ask Him to heal?

Power Verses:

Matthew 14:14, "When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them and healed their sick." (NIV)

Mark 2:2, "So many gathered that there was no room left, not even outside the door, and he preached the word to them." (NIV)

© 2009 by Glynnis Whitwer. All rights reserved.

Proverbs 31 Ministries

616-G Matthews-Mint Hill Road

Matthews, NC 28105

www.proverbs31.org

[Judy Harder]

May 12, 2009

What's Your Story?

T. Suzanne Eller

Here is another story Jesus told: "The Kingdom of Heaven is like a farmer who planted good seed in his field." Matthew 13:24 (NLT)
       
Devotion:

I perched on the top of my car. Water rolled the vehicle down the swollen creek. How in the world did I get in such a mess? I had spoken in Tulsa. As I drove home, rain pelted my car. I listened to the scratchy radio blaring wicked weather warnings.

Maybe you should stop. I ignored the still, small voice.

It's only an hour, I reasoned. Surely I'll be fine.

I was only five miles from home when I rounded a corner and heard a whoosh. The engine cut out. I opened the car door and water poured in. I slammed it shut. I tried to start the car, but it would not start. I tried again. And again. I heard a terrible clunk. I turned the key to battery power position and managed to get the window half-way down. I looked into the inky darkness and what I saw took my breath away. The creek that bordered the road had taken over and my car was in the middle of it. Water poured in around the bottom of the car door, covering my feet, my ankles, then my knees. I grabbed my purse and my Bible. I pulled off my heels and wrangled through the window. Finally, I sat on the top of the car and it started to float.

God, I prayed. Help me.

Bright lights flashed at the edge of the water, about 50 feet away. A long Buick, made sometime in the '70's, plunged into the water and chugged toward me. It looked like Heaven to me. That is, until the guy rolled down his window.

"Jump in!" he said. "Hurry!" He and his buddy wore T-shirts with cut-out sleeves. He had a pack of cigarettes rolled in a bandana around his tattooed arm.

I looked at the water. I looked at the Buick ... I jumped.

I love telling this story. I can tell it and hear the audience roar with laughter. Humor is such a gift. I can tell the story and share how important it is to listen to the quiet voice of the Holy Spirit. I can use it to illustrate how God can use the most unlikely angels to rescue you.

You see, we all have life-baskets filled to the brim with stories. I picture Jesus sitting with the disciples sharing the parables. I think about my own mother telling me what it felt like when she finally grasped God's grace. I hear Lysa TerKeurst sharing her story of adopting her two precious sons from Africa.

The question is, have you told your story lately? Maybe your life-basket contains stories about hard times, or moments when you felt alone, or perhaps good times like when God became so real that it transformed you. Somewhere there is someone who will identify with that story, and perhaps find encouragement, or hope, or maybe just a good belly laugh.

Dear Jesus, I am a witness. A story unfolded and written by Your hand. Give me courage to tell it to someone who needs to hear it. Thank You for being the Author of every chapter of my life. In Jesus' Name, amen.

Related Resources:

Do You Know Him?

Listen to Today's P31 Radio Show to hear more about God's unexpected treasures lying within you!

The Woman I Am Becoming: Embrace the Chase for Identity, Faith, and Destiny by T. Suzanne Eller

Visit Suzie's blog where she offers a giveaway and tips on communicating your story.

Application Steps:

Look at your life basket. What stories do you find?

What was impossible to see when you were in the midst of that story?

What do you see now clearly?

Ask God to show you someone who needs to hear that story.

Reflections: 

Stop comparing your story to any one else's story. You are unique. Give God the pen and let Him write the next chapter.

Power Verses:

John 1:6-8, "There came a man who was sent from God; his name was John. He came as a witness to testify concerning that light, so that through him all men might believe. He himself was not the light; he came only as a witness to the light."

© 2009 by T. Suzanne Eller. All rights reserved.

Proverbs 31 Ministries

616-G Matthews-Mint Hill Road

Matthews, NC 28105

www.proverbs31.org

[Judy Harder]

May 13, 2009

Failing Forward
Renee Swope

"The steps of a [woman] are established by the Lord, and He delights in [woman] way. When [woman] falls, [woman] will not be hurled headlong, because the Lord is the One who holds [woman] hand." Psalm 37:23-24 (NASB)

Devotion:

I admire, maybe even envy, people who aren't afraid to fail. You know, those people who see personal setbacks as another goal to conquer. People who don't even consider defeat when they blow it.

I wish I were that kind of person. But honestly, I am not always so courageous in the face of failure.

Failure is painful. It's embarrassing. And sometimes it makes me want to give up, mainly on myself.

God is teaching me a lot about failing. In fact, He is giving me a little push these days, to fail forward.

This week He's been challenging me to determine in my heart and mind that I am a work in progress and move forward even when I have a setback. He is reminding me that I am a woman who is becoming all He created her to be.

A woman who is growing.

A woman who is getting better and better each day.

A woman who is not perfect - but who tries to surrender to God's perfect love and perfect power at work in her.

Failing forward.after I shoot harsh words across the room to "shoosh" my child when he announces that the yogurt in our near empty refrigerator has expired and there is nothing to eat! That is, after I'd just opened the large container of perfectly good yogurt, eaten some myself and served it to his brother for a snack.

Failing forward...after I criticize my husband and realize I failed to honor my man, again. Instead I've added to an already stressful day for the husband and father who just brought home groceries.

Failing forward...after I let myself be "too busy" to take the time to encourage, sit with, talk to, and listen to my always-giving-and-forgiving-mom who stopped by unexpectedly this afternoon.

Failing forward...after I tell God that a certain ministry assignment is too stinkin' hard so I can't do it because surely I don't have what it takes.

Every time I fail to be the woman God calls me to be, or the woman I expect myself to be, God reminds me of the progress we've made. Because, even though I may not be who I want to be, I am not who I used to be!

And I get that much closer to who I am meant to be every time I fail forward.


Dear Lord, I am so thankful that with Your help, I can fail forward!! I don't have to see my setbacks as a step back. In fact they can lead me forward if I let them. Today, I will take Your hand and trust Your heart as You pull me back up again and use my failures to help me become the woman You created me to be. In Jesus' Name, amen.

Related Resources:
Shaped with Purpose Workbook and CD by Renee Swope


Youniquely Woman: Becoming Who God Designed You To Be by Kay Arthur, Emilie Barnes, and Donna Otto

Beyond the Shadow of Doubt: Learning to Live Confidently in Christ, Message on DVD by Renee Swope

Visit Renee's Blog for practical ways we can fail forward with God's help in the areas where we most often feel defeated.

Application Steps:

List one or two areas of your life where you have felt like you were failing. Then ask God to show you how you can take one step forward with His help. And also ask Him to show you the progress you've made and how you are becoming the woman He created you to be.

Let Renee know how she can pray for you today by clicking here.

Reflections:

Do I allow failure to discourage me and make me feel like I'll never move forward or make progress?

Am I willing to believe God's promise in today's key verse: That the LORD establishes my steps, and delights in my ways. And even when I fall, I don't have to be hurled headlong, because the LORD is willing to hold my hand?

Power Verses:
Proverbs 24:16a, "...though a righteous man falls seven times, he rises again." (NIV)

Psalm 73:26, "My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever." (NIV)

© 2009 by Renee Swope. All rights reserved.

Proverbs 31 Ministries

616-G Matthews-Mint Hill Road

Matthews, NC 28105

www.proverbs31.org

[Judy Harder]

May 14, 2009



Am I Messing Up My Kids?

Lysa TerKeurst



"Neither this man nor his parents sinned," said Jesus, "but this happened so that the work of God might be displayed in his life." John 9:3 (NIV)

         

Devotion:

Okay, moms, let's get gut honest today. Have you ever had these thoughts tug at the corners of your mind: What have I done wrong? Am I messing up my kids?

I've had two in-depth conversations this week with friends and the same theme wove throughout both conversations. Our kids sometimes struggle and when they do, often our first thought is What have I done wrong as a mother? So many of us moms worry that we are somehow messing up our kids.

Certainly good can come from a healthy assessment of how we're doing in our crucial role as moms. However, when the question comes in the form of a personal assault rather than a call to action over a specific area of improvement - it's not healthy.

It's paralyzing. It's draining. It's defeating.

It's evidence of a hole in the spiritual filter of our mind.

My friend, Holly, and I have been doing something since the beginning of the year that has become an absolute delight to my day. I've been determined to fill my mind with the truth. I figure the more truth I have crowded into that tiny little space I call my mind, the more untruths will get crowded out.

So, we've been taking a book of the Bible and going through it slowly - reading one chapter a day. Then we discuss what spoke to us the most.

The other day, before my conversation with one of my friends, I read John 9. One verse jumped out at me and seemed to swirl in my thoughts constantly. John 9:3, "'Neither this man nor his parents sinned,' said Jesus, 'but this happened so that the work of God might be displayed in his life.'" The way this verse kept bumping into my conscious thoughts let me know it was crucial that I think on it - pray through it - and let it seep into some deep places needing this truth.

Later I was talking with my friend and heard little hints of that question - "What have I done wrong as a mother?"

What a delight it was to have that verse right on the top of my mind. Like a healing balm, I soothed my friend with the truth that what her son is going through right now has nothing to do with her mistakes or even his for that matter. God is helping her son work through some fears that will eventually be a mighty display of spiritual depth in his life.

Sweet sister, have you caught yourself asking lately "What have I done wrong as a mother?" Maybe, some adjustments need to be made.

Or maybe, this line of thinking should be redirected with a different question - "How might God work in this situation so that His work can be displayed in my child's life or in my life?" Either way, remember this truth - you are loved by God and so is your child!


Dear Lord, help me process my motherhood journey using the filter of Your truth and nothing else. In Jesus' Name, Amen.



Related Resources:

Visit Lysa's blog to take the "Motherhood guilt quiz" and learn practical ways to overcome this.



The Bathtub is Overflowing but I Feel Drained by Lysa TerKeurst



Real Moms, Real Jesus by Jill Savage



Application Steps: 

Find a godly friend who can help you process your struggles with your child without condemnation. Ask this friend to spend some time praying with you and for you. Then offer to do the same with her. You'll know you've found the right friend to do this with when she's not afraid to admit she has some of the same struggles as you.



If you're having a hard time finding a friend who will be honest and vulnerable, ask God to bring this type of friend into your life. In the meantime, check out my blog. I think some of my motherhood stories will make you feel right at home. I'm in the trenches with you sister and I'd love to encourage you in your motherhood journey.



Reflections: 

Is there something your child has struggled with lately that made you feel like you've done something wrong as his mother?



Prayerfully ask God if there is any thing you can do better as a mom. Also, ask Him to help you see all that you've done right as a mom and how to accept that some of your child's struggles have nothing to do with your actions at all.



Then, spend some time in prayer asking God how He is working in this situation.



Power Verses:

John 3:17, "For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him." (NIV)



2 Timothy 1:13-14, "What you heard from me, keep as the pattern of sound teaching, with faith and love in Christ Jesus. Guard the good deposit that was entrusted to you--guard it with the help of the Holy Spirit who lives in us." (NIV)





© 2009 by Lysa TerKeurst. All rights reserved.



Proverbs 31 Ministries

616-G Matthews-Mint Hill Road

Matthews, NC 28105

www.proverbs31.org

[Judy Harder]

May 15, 2009

Pick Me!

Tracie Miles

"...so in Christ, we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. We have different gifts, according to the grace given us."

Romans 12:5-6a (NIV)
   
Devotion:

So I said to God, "Absolutely not. Is there a plan B?"

That was my answer to God many years ago, when I heard Him impress upon my heart, quite loudly I might add, that He was calling me to speak and write. Until that divine moment, I had never desired to serve in those capacities. Although I served in other areas within my church, I wasn't ready to serve in such a way that would cause me to take risks, make sacrifices, and put my heart on the line for all to see.

Do you remember as a child, when the teacher asked "Who wants to clean the board," or, "Who wants to be the line leader?" All the kids would jump up and raise their hands, while yelling out in unison, "Me! Me! Pick me! Pick me!" Then the teacher would carefully choose someone, and the chosen child would beam with pride as they quickly assumed and carried out their role with great enthusiasm.

I imagine that God wishes we would be a little more like school children at times. As a child, when given a possible opportunity to lead in any capacity, we didn't stop to think how long the act of service would last. We didn't care so much what would be required of us ... would it cost us anything, or if there might be something else that we would rather do.

As adults, we tend to over-analyze everything and as a result, we find ourselves procrastinating, which causes our desire to serve to wane. When God called me to be a speaker and writer, I wasted several years trying to pretend that I did not really understand God correctly, or hoping that He would have sympathy for my fears and hesitations and give me an easier task. Oh, how He would have been so pleased if instead I had responded with, "Pick me Lord! Yes, pick me!"

When God calls us into service, often the timeliness of our response is a measure of our faith. Procrastination is a sign that we are not trusting that God will lead the way and guide our paths. Procrastination leads to confusion and indecision, giving the enemy an opportunity to work at convincing us that we are unworthy, unqualified and incapable of carrying out God's will. As a result, we become paralyzed with fear, doubts and insecurities.

Stepping out in faith requires us to fully rely on God, and not on our own assessments of our abilities. Philippians 4:13 reads "I can do everything through him who gives me strength."

Do you believe it? Is God is calling you to a task that is beyond what you think you are capable of; one that may require you to make sacrifices and choose God's plans over your own? Are you willing to say, "Pick me!" and then depend on His strength and sovereignty to carry out His will?

Dear Lord, give me ears to hear Your voice and to know when You are calling me to serve. Help me to put my faith in You, and not in my own abilities. Fill me with a desire to serve in whatever way You have ordained for my life, and bless me with the opportunity to use the spiritual gifts that You have equipped me with. Help me to have confidence to move forward in faith because of who You are, not because of who I am. Pick me Lord! In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

Do You Know Him?

For more encouragement about determining God's will for your life, visit Tracie's blog

Check out our She Speaks Conference

God's Purpose for Every Woman: A P31 Devotional Gen Eds. Lysa TerKeurst & Rachel Olsen

Application Steps: 

Pray for God to make His will known to you, and to give you the desire to step out in faithful obedience to it.

Reflections: 

Has God been calling me to a task that I am running from?

What can I do to take that first step towards obedience?

Power Verses:

Colossians 3:23, "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men." (NIV)

Romans 8:28, "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." (NIV)

© 2009 by Tracie Miles. All rights reserved.

Proverbs 31 Ministries

616-G Matthews-Mint Hill Road

Matthews, NC 28105

www.proverbs31.org

[Judy Harder]

May 18, 2009

Greener Pastures

Micca Monda Campbell

"He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside the still waters, he restores my soul." Psalm 23:2-3 (NIV)
       
Devotion:

What kind of pressured situations do you face? Is it the constant stress of trying to make ends meet? Perhaps discontentment is the villain that adds pressure to your life? For me, it varies. I feel most stressed in being a wife and mother. There are days where it seems that everybody needs me all at once! Do you ever feel like the whole world is gathered at your door demanding your time and attention?

The most stressful hour of the day for me is shortly after the kids arrive home from school. It's when the chaos begins. There is homework to do, dinner to prepare, and baseball and dance practice to attend. When the pressure is more than I can handle, I panic. I panic because I don't have enough of me to go around! Suddenly, it's as if horns pop out of my head knocking my heavenly halo to the ground. This is what's called, "blowing your top." It happens when you and I are under pressure.

Something else happens when we feel the demands of life pressing in as well. We become annoyed by the very people we love most. I don't want to live this way, and neither do you.

The truth is the pressure and responsibility of caring for so many can drain me. I get tired and worn out. David got tired too. His job was just as stressful as ours as he protected, guided, and tended to his sheep. How did David manage? He looked to his Good Shepherd for rest and the Lord provided. "He makes me to lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside the still waters, he restores my soul" (Psalm 23:2-3).

It's important for us to rest, but do we? Can we? Perhaps you find it difficult to sleep at night because of the stress that plagues you. Sometimes, I lie awake making out my to-do list in my mind. In the morning, I wake up as tired as when I went to bed. The real problem is I didn't get enough sleep. The average person needs seven to eight sound hours of sleep a night, but most people only get five, six or seven hours of restless sleep. When we have insomnia we may turn to faulty methods for rest such nightcaps. Sometimes exhaustion takes over in the form of a cold or flu and we're forced to rest.

God has a better plan to relieve our stress. The Lord leads us to "lie down in green pastures" in order to revive and refresh us emotionally, spiritually, and physically.

Whenever I think of green pastures, I think of warm summer days when my dad and I would lie down on the soft green grass in the yard. We didn't have a care in the world. We simply rested and discussed the floating clouds hanging in the sky. Perhaps your green pasture is a quiet moment in your favorite chair, a walk on the beach, or curling up in bed with a good book.

The truth is, God never put us in charge of everything, just certain assignments. While the stress and pressures of our duties can deplete us, God has not left us empty. He desires to refill all of our dry places so we have supply for tomorrow. The secret is stealing away with God to places of unending rest.

Dear Lord, I often feel guilty taking time for myself. Today, I understand that this is Your plan for me. Help me to rest. Guard my time and help me manage my responsibilities so that I can renew myself emotionally, spiritually, and psychically each day. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

Piecing It All Together CD by Micca Campbell

An Untroubled Heart by Micca Campbell

Visit Micca's blog

Application Steps: 

Where do you find relaxation--in a bubble bath; by taking a walk; gardening; visiting a spa or taking a nap? Plan to rest each day even if it's only 10-15 minutes. It will do wonders for your stress and recharge your batteries.

Reflections: 

Are you getting enough downtime to recharge? If not, how can you change that?

Do you sometimes feel guilty when you do rest? Could this be a sign that you're doing too much?

Power Verses:

Palms 62:1, "My soul finds rest in God alone; my salvation comes from him." (NIV)

Matthew 11:28, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." (NIV)

© 2009 by Micca Campbell. All rights reserved.

Proverbs 31 Ministries

616G, Matthews-Mint Hill Road

Matthews, NC 28105

www.proverbs31.org

[Judy Harder]

May 19, 2009

Trusting God During Difficult Times

Susanne Scheppmann

"For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations." Psalm 100:5 (NIV)

Devotion:

Horrified, I placed the phone back in its charger. My mind reeled. What could I say to one of my dearest friends after this new tragedy had struck? First, she experienced the loss of a fourteen-year-old son to brain cancer. Now her eldest son, only eighteen, had been discovered mugged and murdered. Incomprehensible.

She asked, "Why?" I had no answer other than, "I don't know, but I cling to the factual knowledge that God is good, regardless. Tragedies in this life are beyond our understanding this side of heaven."

I believe Jesus is good, and that knowledge sings from the depths of my soul. This nugget of truth is more precious than life itself to me. We have been taught and recognize that faith is not something we can necessarily see, hear, feel, taste, or touch. It is stepping out of our comfort zones and trusting God--regardless of how we feel emotionally. The Bible explains, "Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see" (Hebrews 11:1, NIV).

The true story of Horatio G. Spafford demonstrates this type of faith in God's goodness. Spafford wrote the familiar hymn, "It is Well with My Soul" in 1872 after his four daughters drowned, soon after his own financial bankruptcy. He, somehow, held onto the fact that despite the outward circumstances, God was good. He wrote, "And Lord, haste the day when my faith shall be sight." He knew that his faith was not in vain, and that someday he would see the meaning and purpose of all the tragedy surrounding his life at that moment.

For myself I think my greatest lesson of faith has been in the acknowledgement that God is good--all the time. Oswald Chambers wrote, "Faith by its very nature must be tested and tried. And the real trial of faith is not that we find it difficult to trust God, but that God's character must be proven trustworthy in our own minds."

There will always be moments of uncertainty. I find comfort in the words written by David Jeremiah in My Heart's Desire:

You may sometimes feel awkward and uncomfortable, and find yourself saying, "Is this really true? I don't see anything in it. I don't hear God's voice. I don't feel His presence." There are days like that for all of us. The pursuit of God has no shortcuts. You simply must keep walking, keep seeking, and keep yearning. Keep at it, and you won't be disappointed.

God is good, even as I mourn with my friend. I have witnessed her grief, anger, and doubt. But throughout the passing months, I have watched her cling to Jesus with hands wet with tears. My friend believes God is good all the time even when she can't feel it with her emotions. Her faith rests in the fact, "The Lord is good and his love endures forever."

Dear Lord, grant me the faith to know that You are good all the time, even during the most difficult circumstances of this life. When I am weak, lift me up. Enable me to accept the love and comfort from others who love me, but let me rely on Your everlasting love for me. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

Birds in My Mustard Tree by Susanne Scheppmann

Trials for Today, Treasures for Tomorrow: Overcoming Adversities in Life by Janet Eckles

Visit Susanne's blog

If you are in the Dallas metro area, you're invited to be in the studio audience for the appearance of P31's own Lysa TerKeurst on the LIFE Today show with James & Betty Robison, one week from today on May 26 at 7 p.m.  Tickets are free, but you must reserve your seat. Call 817-354-3655 or email audience@loi.org.  The studios are located at 1801 West Euless Boulevard, Euless, Texas 76040.

Application Steps: 

Memorize one of the Power Verses below to repeat and remind yourself of God's goodness during difficult times in your life.

Reflections: 

What situations in my life do I feel are out of my faith-comfort zone?

Do I believe that God is good all the time?

Power Verses:

Psalms 91:2, "I will say of the Lord, "He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust."(NIV)

Deuteronomy 31:8, "The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged." (NIV)

Psalms 27:5, "For in the day of trouble he will keep me safe in his dwelling; he will hide me in the shelter of his tabernacle and set me high upon a rock." (NIV)

© 2009 by Susanne Scheppmann. All rights reserved.

Proverbs 31 Ministries

616-G Matthews-Mint Hill Road

Matthews, NC 28105

www.proverbs31.org

[Judy Harder]

May 20, 2009

Father, Comforter, Disciplinarian

Melissa Taylor

"...but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.  They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."  Isaiah 40:31 (NIV)       

Devotion:

Have you ever opened a book and read a passage and been amazed because it was exactly what you needed to hear?  And you felt like it was written and sent just to you on that day at that moment? Some may call it a coincidence, but I call it a gift from God! 

Last night I did not sleep. I recently had surgery on my left foot. Yesterday the doctor gave me the green light to put full weight on that foot again. For the first time in three weeks, I walked using that foot. I was so happy not to use crutches or limp around that I got a little carried away.  Last night I awoke in such great pain, I cried.  Finally I took some pain medication, but I never could go back to sleep.

This morning I am absolutely exhausted! I'm tired physically, mentally, and emotionally. I'm tired from no sleep. I'm tired of trying so hard to function. I'm ready to run and I can't. I'm frustrated. I'm weak. I'm what Isaiah calls "weary." 

This morning I opened my devotion book for a healthy dose of God's Word. I was overjoyed when I read the words from Isaiah.  It was exactly what I needed to hear: "My strength will be renewed because I have hope in the Lord."

I have hope in the Lord because He is my Father. I can trust Him and count on Him to keep His Word.  My heavenly Father is always with me, something my earthly parents can't be.

I have hope in the Lord because He is my Comforter.  My foot may hurt and my emotions are unbalanced. I don't feel very comfortable at the moment, but I am comforted.  My Comforter supplies me with the love, peace, and hope I need to know I'm going to be okay.

I have hope in the Lord because He is my Disciplinarian. I have to admit, this isn't my favorite characteristic of Him. But I know without it, I'd be out of control!  I need a strong hand to guide me and keep me in line. I actually feel safe and secure because my Father disciplines me.  I know it is through that discipline that I am strengthened. I also know He disciplines me because He loves me.

I may be weak today, but what a great place to be. It draws me closer to the One I need most. My Father, my Comforter, my Disciplinarian.

Dear Lord, I have found my hope in You!  Thank You for being there to provide for me as my Father, Comforter, and Disciplinarian.  In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

The Woman I am Becoming by T. Suzanne Eller


Self Talk Soul Talk by Jennifer Rothschild

Visit Melissa's blog

Application Steps: 

If you are exhausted, drained, and ready to quit, read Isaiah 40:28-31. 

Rest in knowing that the Lord will renew your strength.

Reflections: 

Where do I go for hope and comfort?

Maybe I need to have more time with God today.

Power Verses:

Isaiah 40:28-31, "Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary; and his understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like an eagle; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk, and not faint." (NIV)   

© 2009 by Melissa Taylor. All rights reserved.

Proverbs 31 Ministries

616-G Matthews-Mint Hill Road

Matthews, NC 28105

www.proverbs31.org

[Judy Harder]

May 21, 2009

Embracing Who I Am

Lysa TerKeurst

"But the angel said to her, 'Do not be afraid, Mary, you have found favor with God.'"

Luke 1:30 (NIV)

Devotion:

Ten years ago I sat in a seminar listening to a very organized mom talking about how she parented her kids. She was an amazing woman; a super mom in my eyes.

I held up my feeble efforts with my three toddlers and determined I stunk as a mother. I thought that maybe if I went home and imitated her, I could enter into the world of super moms.

I mentally listed out what I discerned must be her secret to success and set about to be just like her. But it didn't take me long to become absolutely miserable. I mentally beat myself up for not having what it obviously took to be a great mom. What was wrong with me?

I begged God to make me just like her - that really good mom. And then one day in Bible study I read the story of Mary, the teenage mother of Jesus. My heart beat fast as I realized she didn't meet the standard of super mom I'd set for myself.

Somehow, just as she was, God chose her to be Jesus' mother. And the only qualification that she seemed to have was her willingness.

I made the choice to try and let go of all those expectations I had for myself as a mom. I let go of the comparisons to other moms. I laid down the measuring stick of perfection. And I simply bowed my head and gave God my willingness.

Slowly, I started to see my own unique qualities as a mom instead of always focusing on the places I felt I fell so short.

I may not be the most organized mom, but I'm a fun mom willing to drop my to-do list in the name of spontaneity.

I may not do sit-down devotions with my kids every morning, but I'm good at helping my kids see God working in situations all throughout our days.

I may not sew a lick, but I know where to find an alterationist that is the bomb.

I may not always keep my cool in the everyday aggravations of life, but throw something big at me and somehow I'll be the calmest person in the room.

Sure, I have a lot of room for growth in my mothering. God and I work on things daily. But over the past ten years I've learned how to embrace who I am and the beauty of living fully as me.

And while I still fall short at times, I'm finally learning that being fully me is so much better than an imitation version of someone else.

I have the exact qualities God knew my kids would need in a mother. So, each day I hold up my willingness and ask God to make me the best version of me I can be.

Dear Lord, I admit that I am dependant on You in every area of my life, as a mother, a wife, a co-worker, a daughter, and a friend. Help me to understand the depth of Your love for me. Thank You for being familiar with me in all my ways. Thank You for laying your hand upon me. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

If you are in the Dallas metro area, you're invited to be in the studio audience for the appearance of Lysa TerKeurst on the LIFE Today show with James & Betty Robison, Tuesday, May 26 at 7 p.m.  Tickets are free, but you must reserve your seat. Call 817-354-3655 or email audience@loi.org.  The studios are located at 1801 West Euless Boulevard, Euless, Texas 76040. Lysa would love to see you there.

Visit Lysa TerKeurst's blog

The Bathtub is Overflowing but I Feel Drained by Lysa TerKeurst

Application Steps: 

Have you ever struggled with this?

How can you keep yourself from falling into the comparison trap?

How will you begin to embrace the person God created you to be?

Reflections: 

Whether it's in the arena of motherhood, or your workplace, or one of the many places we unfairly compare ourselves to others -

-          realize your great qualities and be fully you

-          realize how much God loves you

-          realize He created your inmost being

-          realize He has laid His hand upon you

-          realize His right hand will hold you fast

-          realize His promises never fail

Power Verses:

Joshua 21:43-35, "So the Lord gave Israel all the land he had sworn to give their forefathers, and they took possession of it and settled there. The Lord gave them rest on every side, just as he had sworn to their forefathers. Not one of their enemies withstood them; the Lord handed all their enemies over to them. Not one of all the Lord's good promises to the house of Israel failed; every one was fulfilled. " (NIV) 

© 2009 by Lysa TerKeurst. All rights reserved.

Proverbs 31 Ministries

616-G, Matthews-Mint Hill Road

Matthews, NC 28105

www.proverbs31.org