Encouragement for Today

[Judy Harder]

September 9, 2009

So Yesterday

Priscilla Richardson, She Speaks Graduate

"Forever, O Lord, Your Word is settled in heaven." Psalm 119:89 (NASB)

Devotion:

We live in a society that prizes change. Whether it's the most recent dictum of haute couture from the world of fashion, or the latest in technical gadgets, we are enamored with the idea that newer and different is better.

Let the word "change" fall from a politician's lips, and his or her future is suddenly golden. Discontented with the ordinariness of our lives, we are often an easy sell. So much so, in fact, that one of the quickest ways to kill an idea or project is to describe it as "so yesterday."

Obviously, some changes are positive and some are negative. But too much change, or change for the wrong reasons, can leave us scrambling for the higher ground of stability. When we are forced by circumstances to ride those roiling seas of change, to what do we cling to maintain our emotional and spiritual equilibrium?  In Psalm 61:2, David said, "When my heart is overwhelmed, lead me to the rock that is higher than I" (NKJV).                                                                                                                             

Isn't that what we all want - a sense of permanence in a world of change and restlessness? Solid ground when we can't touch bottom? Stillness in place of agitation?

God's Word tells us that all these are possible because of one man, and His name is Jesus. "For he himself is our peace," (Ephesians 2:14, NIV), the One who never changes. The "same yesterday and today and forever" (Hebrews 13:8, NIV). The unshakeable foundation beneath our feet when everything in our world totters (Psalm 40:2).

How comforting to know that our lives are encompassed by an eternally present Christ. He is our Alpha and Omega, our Beginning and our End.  Who He is and what He says stands...

Uncontradicted.

Unoverturned.

Forever.

Long after you and I are considered history and "so yesterday," Jesus will still be. Describing the uniqueness of our God, Eugene Peterson in The Message asks, "Are we not at bedrock?" (Psalm 18:31).

Indeed.                           

Dear Lord, as everything around me changes, may I rest my heart on the firm foundation of Your Word, which never goes out of style or needs revision. May I rejoice in its timeless truth and rest in its awesome strength to transform my sometimes erratic life into a place of peace. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

Sanctuary: A Devotional Bible for Women
Season of Change: Parenting Your Middle Schooler with Passion and Purpose by Rebecca Ingram Powell
Torn Asunder: Recovering From an Extramarital Affair by Dave Carder

The Overwhelmed Woman's Guide to Caring for Aging Parents by Julie-Allyson Ieron
Through a Season of Grief by Bill Dunn and Kathy Leonard
Application Steps:

List the major changes that have occurred in your life within the past year. How have these changes impacted your life?

As you identify your reactions to the changes - disappointment, anxiety, fear, loneliness, grief - spend some time in the Word to see how Jesus, the great "I AM," provides stability for you in the midst of your rocking world.

Reflections:

Can you recall another time in your life when God worked good for you out of what appeared to be a negative change in your life? 

Is it possible to look at an unexpected or negative change in a positive way?

In what way does God's Word provide an anchor for us?

Power Verses:

Isaiah 40:8, "The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God stands forever." (NIV)

John 8:58, "'I tell you the truth,' Jesus answered, 'before Abraham was born, I am!' "(NIV)

Psalm 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 Priscilla Richardson. All rights reserved.

Proverbs 31 Ministries

616-G Matthews-Mint Hill Road

Matthews, NC 28105

www.proverbs31.org
`

[Judy Harder]

September 10, 2009

Mean Girls

Lynn Cowell

"The Lord is good, a strong refuge when trouble comes. He is close to those who trust in him." Nahum 1:7 (NLT)
       
Devotion:

The words on FaceBook glared back at her. "You are so ugly! You are fat, annoying and I hate you!"

Lindsay just sat there, staring at the screen, baffled. "What did I say? What did I do?"

Maybe this has happened to one of your children, or in some way they've faced this type of rejection. Maybe you have felt it yourself. I recently spotted a t-shirt at the mall that read "You're no one until someone talks about you."  What a sad state of affairs.

Growing up in a world where "Mean Girls" and "Gossip Girl" are movie and TV titles, it comes as no surprise that "mean" defines many females today. How can we guard our hearts against this? As a mom, what can we do when our children's hearts are crushed by meanness?

Feeling unaccepted is definitely nothing new. In Song of Solomon 1:5a, we are introduced to a young girl who felt this way: "Don't look down on me because I am dark..." (MSG). She felt rejected. Those feelings are so opposite of what our children want to feel. They want to be accepted!  Matthew Henry concludes about this passage in Song of Solomon that we, as represented by the young girl, are "often base and contemptible in the esteem of others, but excellent in the sight of God."

We counteract the poison of meanness by remembering who we are in God's eyes. I am in. I am excellent in the sight of God. So are you.  Song of Solomon 1:5b reveals the tanned girl's acceptance of this truth; she knows full well that her Lord finds her lovely.  When I know that I am accepted by the Lord, it puts me exactly where I need to be to slough off insults and to help my child do the same.

As a sixth grader my daughter was 5'10". One day as she got off the school bus, I noticed she was holding back a flood of tears. Once again she had been made fun of for her height.

On that day, her youth pastor wasn't there. Her teacher, counselor and small group leaders weren't there either. But her mom was. I began telling her how her Father saw her. Sharing truths like these:

·        "My beloved is mine, and I am His..." (Song of Solomon 2:16a, NKJV).

·        You're beautiful from head to toe, my dear love, beautiful beyond compare, absolutely flawless" (Song of Solomon 4:7b, MSG).
·        "The king is enthralled by your beauty; honor him, for he is your lord" (Psalm 45:11, (NIV).

These are the types of verses I poured back into my daughter that day and continue to remind her of still. I put them everywhere so that together we can read them over and over again. When we feel rejected, these words remind us that we are, in fact, accepted! Let them remind you today.
                                                                                                                                                                       
Dear Lord, help me to be purposeful in putting Your truth about who I am into my heart and mind so that am not swayed by the opinions of others.  And when the time is right, I can pour Your truth into the hearts and minds of my children and friends. When my child feels rejected, help me remind them that in You they are accepted. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

Visit our Radical Revolution site for encouragement for your 12-17 year old and our She Seeks site for your 18-29 year old.

His Princess, Love Letters from Your King by Sheri Rose Shepherd

Authentic Beauty: The Shaping of a Set-Apart Young Woman by Leslie Ludy   

Visit Lynn's blog

Application Steps:

Create a list of verses such as the ones above and below to have on hand to review or to share with your child when they are hurting.

Choose one verse per week and memorize it with your child. You can speak it to them as they are eating their breakfast in the morning, when they come home from school, and before they go to bed.

If you have your own set of "mean girl" stories, share them with your children so they can know you understand and have been there too. When we're vulnerable with our children, we create an atmosphere where they feel comfortable to open up.

Reflections: 

How can I help my child set boundaries so the rejection doesn't continue?

Am I teaching my child to forgive when they are hurt by others?

Do you feel that you have a strong understanding of how Jesus sees you? How can you pursue learning more about His heart toward you?

Do you have young girls or young moms who need to have another woman come along beside them and help them to see this truth?

Power Verses:

Zephaniah 3:17, "The Lord your God is with you, He is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, He will quiet you with His love, He will rejoice over you with singing."  (NIV) 

Zechariah 2:8, "For this is what the Lord Almighty says, '...for whoever touches you touches the apple of his eye...'" (NIV)

© 2009 by Lynn Cowell. All rights reserved.

Proverbs 31 Ministries

616-G Matthews-Mint Hill Road

Matthews, NC 28105

www.proverbs31.org`

[Judy Harder]

September 11, 2009

Shelter from the Storms

Melanie Chitwood

"Trust in Him at all times, O people; Pour out your heart before Him;

God is a refuge for us." Psalm 62:8 (NAS)
       
Devotion:

The thunder and lightning of a powerful storm rattled our house last night.  As rain slashed against the windows and lightning lit up the dark sky, I woke up just long enough to make room for my youngest son and yellow lab to join me and my husband in bed.  I remember thinking with surprise that I didn't even know it was going to storm. 

What a picture of my life lately.  It's been a year of unexpected rain.  Some just drizzles, but others, like the storm hitting me most recently, have rattled windows with wave after wave of thunder and bursts of lightning.

What about you?  Is there stormy weather in your life right now?  Where are you finding shelter from the storms? 

My friends and family have been a shelter for me this year, just like my family was last night as we all huddled together in bed.  They've encouraged and supported me.  And most importantly, they've pointed me to the strongest shelter from the storms, my Heavenly Father. 

As I've turned to Scripture this week, I'm amazed at the number of times it reminds us God is our shelter.  God knows that we will encounter hard times and His Word reminds us that the strongest and safest shelter is God Himself. 

As always we have a choice: get drenched in the rain or seek shelter.  You see, the storms of life can cause us to run toward God, but just as easily they can cause us to turn away.  A whole range of emotions can leave us standing in the rain to get drenched: bitterness, anger, confusion, helplessness, or hopelessness.  If you can relate to these emotions, you might feel badly for having these emotions, but don't let these feelings keep you from God. 

Read the Psalms and you'll see that God can handle every emotion. Negative emotions are not a reason to turn away from God.  They're the very reason to turn to Him, desperately wanting the kind of faith and strength only God can provide.   

Keep turning to God, continue to tell Him in prayer how you feel, and leave your emotions with Him.  As you do, you'll start to feel His nearness, His hope, His promise, and His comfort.  If you find yourself returning to feelings of fear or hopelessness, just go back to God.  Be honest in your prayers.  Acknowledge that you're having a hard time, but that you want to trust Him in your circumstances. Know that He loves you and will consistently and constantly be your shelter from the storms.

Dear Lord, "Hear my cry, O God; give heed to my prayer.  From the end of the earth I call to You when my heart is faint; lead me to the rock that is higher than I.  For You have been a refuge for me, a tower of strength against the enemy.  Let me dwell in Your tent forever; let me take refuge in the shelter of Your wings" (Psalm 61:1-4, NAS). In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

Join us for more Everyday Life encouragement

What a Husband Needs from His Wife by Melanie Chitwood

An Untroubled Heart: Finding Faith that is Stronger than My Fears by Micca Campbell

Fear Less, message on CD by Lysa TerKeurst

Application Steps: 

Find comfort as you read Psalm 61, 62 and 91 today.  Write out and display in a prominent place in your house a particular verse that helps you keep your eyes on God.

Reflections: 

Have you been turning away from God?  Can you turn back to Him today?  He is waiting for you with open arms and a loving heart.  He loves you and wants to be your strength and comfort in the storm you're facing. 

Power Verses:

2 Chronicles 20:12, "... For we are powerless before this great multitude who are coming against us; nor do we know what to do, but our eyes are on You." (NAS)

Psalm 91:1-2, "Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty. This I declare about the Lord: He alone is my refuge, my place of safety; he is my God, and I trust him." (NLT)

© 2009 by Melanie Chitwood. All rights reserved.

Proverbs 31 Ministries

616-G Matthews-Mint Hill Road

Matthews, NC 28105

www.proverbs31.org
`

[Judy Harder]

September 14, 2009

A Good Kind of Reckless

Tracie Miles

       "'Come,' he said.  Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on water and came toward Jesus.  But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, 'Lord, save me!'"  Matthew 14:29-30 (NIV)

Devotion:

A while back, I opened my daily devotion and the theme verse was the passage above.  When I first began reading I thought, "Oh, I know this passage backwards and forwards:  Peter stepping out onto the stormy waves. A great story of faith and keeping focused on Christ."  But in this particular devotion, there was a different focus.  The key word used was "reckless."  It explained we are to be reckless in our faith - not habitual, not routine, not guarded.  Reckless.

Out of curiosity, I looked up the definition of reckless: Utterly unconcerned about the consequences of some action; without caution. If you ask me, reckless doesn't sound like a good thing!  When it comes to acting without caution, usually the consequences are negative, resulting in pain and problems that could have been avoided had common sense been used. 

But when it comes to our faith, acting without caution is an awesome quality. Reckless faith is...

Living out loud for God, regardless of the consequences.

Opening ourselves up to be Christ's hands and feet in situations where most people close themselves off.

Reaching people others have deemed unreachable.

Loving those who are not very lovable and do not return our love.

Forgiving when forgiveness is not justifiable by the world's standards and making others wonder if we have our head on straight.

Changing direction in life because God called us to even if it doesn't make sense.

Reckless faith is being abandoned for Christ, completely surrendered to Him without restraint, and at peace with the consequences of what might happen. 

Peter was reckless in earthly terms.  He jumped onto the sea during a raging storm without a flotation device, into waves big enough to capsize his boat.  However, if you think about it, it really wasn't Peter's earthly actions that were reckless; it was Peter's spiritual faith.

He had reckless faith: Without thinking, without distress over consequences, without anxiety over what might happen, and without concern for what his friends might think, Peter had faith.

Peter had reckless faith.  And we can too!  Reckless faith means doing what God has called us to do, commanded us to do, and prompted us to do - because it brings Him glory. Those who witnessed Peter's reckless faith didn't ooh and aah over Peter.  Instead, like Peter, they fixed their eyes on Jesus.  "Then those who were in the boat worshiped him, saying, 'Truly you are the Son of God'" (Matthew 14:33, NIV).

There are a few times in my life when I've exhibited reckless faith, and found God blessed me immensely as a result. Unfortunately, there are many more times I've chosen to remain safely in my boat.  It is so much easier to stay afloat in the safety of our comfort zone than to step out into stormy waters, putting all of our trust in Christ.

Reckless faith requires a vibrant and intimate relationship with Jesus Christ.  When we climb from the safety boat and exhibit that, we spur those still in their boats to fix their own eyes on Him, and worship the Son of God.

How is God calling you to be reckless for Him today?

Dear Lord, truly You are the Son of God. I know You have called me to reckless faith, but it is hard to step out. Infuse me with courage to climb out of my boat in whatever way You have called me to. Please help me hear You and give me bravery to move beyond my comfort zone. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

Reinventing Your Rainbow by Tracie Miles

Birds in My Mustard Tree: How to Grow Your Faith by Susanne Scheppmann
The Master Plan of Evangelism by Robert E. Coleman

Visit Tracies' blog

Application Steps: 

Read Hebrews 11.

Reflections: 

Has God called me out of my comfort zone?

Have I been paralyzed by doubt or fear?

Do I really believe I can trust God enough for me to be reckless in my faith?

Power Verses:

Isaiah 55:9, "As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts." (NIV)

2 Chronicles 16:9, "For the eyes of the LORD range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him." (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]

September 15, 2009

The Empty Chair

Shari Braendel

"For this reason, since the day we heard about you,

we have not stopped praying for you." Colossians 1:9a (NIV)

Devotion:

What is one thing I would not live without? 

The answer is a team of prayer warriors. 

I surround myself with specific groups of women who pray for me and me for them.  I have a Moms in Touch group at my son's school, an "around the world team" made up of friends in different states, local girlfriends, and P31 sisters.

For years these women have been praying for me.  I have shared my dreams with them, and we have prayed together over God's calling and plans for me.  The power of prayer is amazing, and we've seen God work in unbelievable ways.  Let me share one instance that was undeniably prayer in action. 

About two weeks ago, I was running out the door to my weekly prayer group at school.  Just before I left, my husband reminded me to send an overdue e-mail.  Telling him I'd do it later, he chimed, "There's no time like the present." So I quickly turned on my laptop and as I did, a new email came in.

Have you ever waited on an answer to come through email?  It could be about a job, a test result, or maybe a response from a friend or family member.  Regardless, you know when the answer comes it will impact your life. I was waiting on news about a ministry endeavor.

What I found in that hurried moment was an email telling me there would be a meeting at 10:00 that morning to determine the outcome of the matter.  I was asked to pray that they would seek the Holy Spirit together as decisions affecting the ministry I serve in were made.

Quickly I forwarded the e-mail to my "around the world team" and headed out the door, with emotions running high.  I cried all the way to the school prayer group, where I told them about the 10 o'clock meeting as well.  The girls gathered around me and prayed. 

When I got home, I read the prayers that had come in from my "around the world team." Bev had prayed there would be an empty chair in the room in which Jesus would be sitting, leading the conversation at the meeting. 

Later that afternoon I received a call.  The ministry opportunity was going forward!  I had prayed about this for two years and approached it many different times. Praise God, things had moved forward in ways I never could have dreamed or imagined!

Recently, I met with one of the women who sat in the 10:00 meeting.  She told me the meeting had gone so well it was as if Jesus Himself was right there in the room!  I asked her what I'd wondered: "By any chance, was there an empty chair at the table?"

"Yes, as a matter of fact there was.  We sat around the table with four chairs and there were only three of us."  I imagined Jesus in that fourth spot.

Oh girls, the power of prayer! Believe that God will perform a miracle for you! Never, ever underestimate the power of friends praying.  Find some girlfriends today and commit to praying for each other.
                                                                                                                                                                 
Dear Lord, thank You for hearing our prayers.  Thank You for bringing into our lives other women who lift us up in prayer. You know the plans You have for us, dear Father, and we lift our prayers to You, waiting for Your direction and timing.  In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

Do You Know Him?

Gather and Grow groups are the perfect place to pray with girlfriends!

Divine Prayers for Despairing Parents: Words to Pray When You Don't Know What to Say by Susanne Scheppmann

Visit Shari's blog

Application Steps: 

Pray and ask God who you should invite to be on your team of prayer warriors.

Join a Moms in Touch prayer group at your child's school or start one by going to www.momsintouch.org.

Join the Proverbs 31 Ministries' Prayer Team.

Reflections: 

Do you need a miracle for your marriage, child, job or health?  Pray without ceasing.

Do you have a calling that you need to take to your prayer warriors and spend some time praying over?

Power Verses:

1 Thessalonians 5:17, "Pray without ceasing." (NASB)

James 5:16b, "The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective." (NIV)

© 2009 by Shari Braendel. All rights reserved.

Proverbs 31 Ministries

616-G Matthews-Mint Hill Road

Matthews, NC 28105

www.proverbs31.org
`

[Judy Harder]

September 16, 2009

Finding God in the Laundry Room

By Lara Krupicka, She Speaks! Graduate

"The Lord who delivered me from the paw of the lion and the paw of the bear will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine."

1 Samuel 17:37a (NIV)
       
Devotion:

As I carry a load of clothes into my laundry room, I glance at the breakfast dishes in the sink and the piles of toys in the family room. Here we go again, I think. Another day of cooking and cleaning that will only be repeated again tomorrow. What is the point of it all? Why am I stuck with such a meaningless existence? When will I ever get to spend my days doing things that have a lasting impact?

Everyday life can be so uninspiring at times. I want action and excitement. I want something to happen. But then when it does (like the day the washing machine overflowed into my basement), I get all out of sorts. I have a hard time handling the disruption to my simple routine. This is not the kind of excitement I'm wanting, I think to myself. I grumble and complain my way through the problems that come my way.

When I consider this verse from 1 Samuel, I realize that, unlike me, David had learned the benefit of being faithful in seemingly insignificant work. He did not despise the lonely job of shepherd. Instead day in and day out he patiently watched in the fields, making sure the sheep didn't wander or get eaten. He took his work seriously, and in doing so he trusted God to be with him in the simple task of herding sheep. He didn't say that once he was a mighty warrior like his older brothers were, then he would trust God. He did it right where he was. Then when trouble came to his quiet field, in the form of a lion or a bear, it was God he relied on to come to his aid.

This dependence of David's is what prepared him for one of the turning point moments in his life. He was able to face the giant Goliath with confidence, not because he'd fought in many battles. He could do this because he'd seen God work in the everyday and knew God would show up on the battlefield too.

I still have a lot to learn about dependence on God. Yet I know that as I depend on Him in the routine tasks of my life, He is preparing me for circumstances yet to come. When I turn to Him in the midst of my laundry room troubles, I experience His care for me and I grow in my ability to know that He will "deliver me" from things both great and small. And in my dependence on God, the chores of cooking, cleaning and laundry begin to take on meaning. My life isn't as pointless as it once seemed.
                                                                                                                                                                       
Dear Lord, thank you for being with me today. Help me to see You in the mundane things of my life and show me how You can bring significance to those things. Teach me dependence on You as You taught the young shepherd, David. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Related Resources:

Do You Know Him?

My Heart's at Home: Becoming the Intentional Mom Your Family Needs by Jill Savage

P31 Woman magazine

Practicing Hospitality: The Joy of Serving Others by Pat Ennis and Lisa Tatlock

Application Steps: 

As you engage in the rote tasks of your day, take the time to acknowledge God's presence. Ask Him to be a part of your day and the things that your hands find to do. Take even the smallest problems that arise to God in prayer and ask for His help with them.

Reflections: 

In what area of your life can you begin seeking a greater dependence on God?

How can relying on God bring significance to the everyday things of your life?

Can you think of a time that God "delivered you from the paw of the lion"? How can recalling that help you through other circumstances that you come upon?

Power Verses:

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)

Phil 4:11b, "for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances." (NIV)

Proverbs 31 Ministries

616-G, Matthews-Mint Hill Road

Matthews, NC 28105

www.proverbs31.org
`

[Judy Harder]

September 17, 2009

I Want What She Has

Lysa TerKeurst

"A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones."

Proverbs14:30 (NIV)

Devotion:

Chances are, if you're like me, you've struggled with comparison and envy.

My house looks great until a friend redecorates.  Her clever color combination and crafty restoration abilities have created rooms that look as though they've stepped straight from a magazine.  Suddenly my home feels outdated and plain.

My kids seem great until I'm around someone else's who excel in areas my kids struggle in.  I see her kids quietly reading books that are well advanced for their age and loving every minute of it.  I compare that to mine who would rather have their right arm cut off than to read books that are barely grade level all the while asking me when they can go do something else more exciting.  Suddenly I judge myself for not making reading more of a priority when they were younger and feel like a sub-par mom.

Suddenly all that I'm blessed with pales in the face of comparison.  I'm blinded from seeing what I do have in the face of what I don't have.  My heart is drawn into a place of ungratefulness and assumption.  As I assume everything is great for those that possess what I don't, I become less and less thankful for what's mine.

And here's the real kicker... things for the person I'm comparing myself to are almost never what they seem.  If there's one thing that living 40 years has taught me, it's that everybody has not-so-great sides to their lives.  Whenever I get an idyllic view of someone else's life, I will often say out loud, "I am not equipped to handle what they have, both good and bad."

God has taught me a lot about how to nip a comparison in the bud so it doesn't develop into full blown envy and jealously. 

The statement, "I am not equipped to handle what they have, both good and bad," has been one of the greatest realizations God has given me.  Every situation has both good and bad.  When I want someone else's good, I must realize that I'm also asking for the bad that comes along with it.  It's always a package deal.  And usually if I'll just give something enough time to unfold I can often be found thanking God that I didn't get someone else's package.

One of the first times I came to understand this truth was in middle school when I met a beautiful girl at the Children's Theater in my town.  We were both budding child actors cast in a Christmas play.  During rehearsals I can remember seeing her long dancers legs move in ways my stubby limbs never could.  Her legs were muscular and lean and graceful.  Mine couldn't be described with any of those adjectives.

One day there was an unusual pain in her left leg.  And then a doctor's appointment turned into a battery of tests that turned into a hospital stay that turned into a diagnosis.  Cancer.  A surgery to remove a tumor turned into an amputation turned into a complete life change.  Her world became filled with words no child should ever have to know:  chemotherapy, prosthetics, hair loss, and walking canes.

As a young girl I was stunned by the whole thing.  Especially because I clearly remember night after night after watching her glide across stage, I would ask God for legs exactly like hers. 

... not equipped to handle what they have, both good and bad.

I don't want to paint the picture that every good thing someone else has will end with a tragedy.  That's not the case.  Sometimes others' good things are simply fantastic.  But they are fantastic for them - not me.

...not equipped to handle what they have, both good and bad.

Dear Lord, thank You for only entrusting me with what I have and who I am. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

Visit Lysa's blog for a give-away you don't want to miss!  You could win four copies of Becoming More Than a Good Bible Study Girl to share with your friends.

Today's devo is taken from Lysa's new book just released: Becoming More Than a Good Bible Study Girl.  If you enjoyed this devo, you will want to order the book!

What Happens When Women Say Yes to God by Lysa TerKeurst

Application Steps: 

What I must remember is to consciously make the choice to redirect my thinking when I find myself comparing and wanting. 

Think of something you've wanted that someone else has.  Have you been lured into thinking, "If only I had _______ like that person, my life would be great!"

Now, practice redirecting those thoughts by instead saying:

I am not equipped for their good.

I am not equipped for their bad.

I am not equipped to be them in any way.

I am, however, perfectly equipped to be me.

Reflections: 

When I compare myself to others and start wanting what others have, it quite simply wears me out.  I start feeling weary from wanting and burdened by trying to figure out how to have more, be more, and do more. 

In light of all we've been talking about, isn't it interesting what Jesus instructs worn out people to do?  Look at the power verse below.

Power Verses:

Matthew 11:28-30 finds Jesus instructing us, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." (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]

September 18, 2009

The Six Most Dangerous Words Ever

Glynnis Whitwer

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

Devotion:

A few months ago, I heard the most horrible news report. It was about a couple who owned a python.  One night, the snake escaped from its cage and killed a two-year-old baby. It was heartbreaking.  I kept asking, "Why?"  Of course, those people never thought that would happen to them.

That's where I ended up in my thoughts ... with what I have decided are the six most dangerous words in the English language:

THAT WILL NEVER HAPPEN TO ME!

I don't judge this couple for having the snake. My heart just breaks for them. And my heart breaks for anyone who finds themselves in a devastating situation because they didn't think anything would happen. The hard truth is, every one of us has the potential to make a serious mistake, or a life-altering miscalculation, because we thought we were immune to trouble. Here are examples we see every day:

A woman who enjoys an "innocent" flirtation at work
A kid who gets in the back of a truck
A girl who gets in the car with someone who has been drinking
A couple who moves and stops attending church
A mom who starts an email communication with a man who makes her feel young again

The list goes on and on. Every woman, man and child is a candidate for making a mistake. This is because of our sin-drenched DNA. It's also because we have a tendency to forget this sin-nature, and ignore the fact that we desperately need God's help ... every minute ... every hour ... every day.

When I think "That will never happen to me," I let down my guard. I imagine myself above my circumstances and above the need for God.  It's like I open a door for pride to sneak in.

The reality of this world is we are in a battle. Only many people either don't know that, or forget it. We wake up thinking it's going to be a peaceful day. However, for those who have chosen to follow Jesus, we have an enemy who is preparing for a fight. No wonder we are blindsided by the results of our choices. We are in a fight we don't know about.

A passage in 1 Peter reminds me to be on guard, and gives me hope:

"Turn all your worries over to him. He cares about you. Control yourselves. Be on your guard. Your enemy the devil is like a roaring lion. He prowls around looking for someone to chew up and swallow. Stand up to him. Stand firm in what you believe. All over the world you know that your brothers and sisters are going through the same kind of suffering. God always gives you all the grace you need"(1 Peter 5:7-10a, NIRV).

That last verse is what I hang on to when the sadness of this world threatens to overwhelm me. No one is immune to making a mistake that ends with devastating consequences. No one. It's a call to remember that I need God's help every day.  And that His grace is enough for me.
                                                                                                                                                                     
Dear Lord, I know how desperately I need Your help. On my own, I'm no match for Satan's schemes.  Yet I know You have given me grace to be alert and to stand firm in the face of temptation.  Help me to make the right choice in every situation.  Forgive me when my selfishness or inattention causes You sadness. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

Do you know Jesus invites us to come to Him to repair whatever's broken in our lives?  Hear more and be encouraged by this truth on our Radio Show .

When Your Child is Hurting: Helping Your Child Survive the Ups and downs of Life by Glynnis Whitwer

Confessions of a Good Christian Girl: The Secrets Women Keep and the Grace that Saves Them by Tammy Maltby

Visit Glynnis's blog and browse her other resources here

Application Steps: 

Have you made a choice recently you regret?  If so, take this opportunity to confess that to God and ask for His forgiveness.  Commit to praying for God's strength to stand firm.

Reflections: 

What are some dangerous paths women tread, believing they are immune to making a wrong choice?

What are some habits you can develop to keep you alert to the devil's schemes?

Power Verses:

Psalm 37:23-24, "If the LORD delights in a man's way, he makes his steps firm; though he stumble, he will not fall, or the LORD upholds him with his hand." (NIV) 

Proverbs 2:6, "For the LORD gives wisdom, and from His mouth comes knowledge and understanding." (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]

September 21, 2009

Finding Shelter

Mary DeMuth, She Reads Featured Author

"And I say, 'Oh that I had wings like a dove! I would fly away and be at rest; yes, I would wander far away; I would lodge in the wilderness; I would hurry to find a shelter from the raging wind and tempest." Psalm 55:6-8 (ESV)
       
Devotion:

I'm not normally one to sense family secrets about people's lives, but this time I did. The moment "Sarah" walked through my front door for a Bible study, God whispered to me, "She needs help."

A few weeks later she asked if I could come over and talk.

She welcomed me to an immaculate house and peppered me with questions about how I managed our home. At first I answered her questions directly, but as she kept asking, I realized she was really asking something else: Why can't I be enough for my husband's expectations? She seemed frightened, jumpy.

That day my new friend Sarah confessed that her husband abused her. Emotionally. Physically. Psychologically. I prayed for her, gave her my phone number, and felt her burden in my gut.

She called after a violent episode, her two children crying in the back of her car. "I'm afraid," she told me.

I encouraged her to come over. Nearly at that moment, a friend of mine arrived and, through a series of God-moments, we worked together to get Sarah and her two children to a safe place.

In doing so, we feared for our safety. Her husband stalked us, called us in the middle of the night screaming. During one conversation, my husband asked him, "Why are you in seminary?"

"Because I want to pastor people." He said it as if the answer were obvious.

My husband cleared his throat in the quiet of our room. "If you can't shepherd your own family, you can't expect to shepherd others."

The man erupted, spewing obscenities. "She just needs to learn to submit!" With that, he hung up.

Since this time, we've encountered several hurting women married to men who pursued, or were active in, ministry. These women felt trapped, worried, and afraid. And because their husbands held the position they did, these wives didn't know how to find a safe place.

As a fiction author, I have written a series of novels with the purpose of exposing this kind of pain in Christian families. I didn't write to impugn or to harass, but to shed light on a sad reality. So that silent sufferers wouldn't feel alone. So that redemption could shine on such a dark family canvas.

Do you know a "Sarah"? Whether she is a friend, acquaintance, or the woman you look at each day in the mirror, there is something you can do. Pray fervently that God will give you the wisdom to find shelter. Pray for the courage to tell the truth, or to be a safe place for her to tell the truth. And believe that no one "deserves" punishment, violence, or verbal thrashings by a spouse. Remember that God's heart for marriage is unity, mutual understanding, longsuffering, love that overlooks shortfalls, and camaraderie.

May we all seek God's design for marriage and may those who need to find shelter hurry towards it.
                                                                                                                                                                     
Dear Lord, whether I am a Sarah, or a friend of a Sarah, give me wisdom. Make me aware if You desire for me to take a role in helping someone. I give You everything, including my fears, worries, and stress. Shine Your light on my family, I pray. And lead me to Your safe place. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

Do You Know Him?

Daisy Chain by Mary DeMuth. This book is one of the three fall selections for our recently launched SheReads Fiction Book Club.

Mary will be guest posting on the SheReads blog this week. If you would like to ask questions anonymously or dialogue further about this devotion, she welcomes you there and would love to hear from you! 

When Life and Beliefs Collide: How Knowing God Makes a Difference by Carolyn Custis James

Application Steps: 

If you're a Sarah: Seek solace in a safe friendship and share your story. If you fear for your life or your children's lives, contact your local battered women's shelter.

If you know a Sarah, pray that God would show you how you can be used in her life to help her find shelter from what she is going through.

Reflections: 

Who benefits from me keeping a family secret like this?

How is it loving to allow someone to hurt you or others?

Power Verses:

Ephesians 4:15, "Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every aspect into him who is the head, into Christ." (ESV)

Ephesians 5:11, "Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness but instead, expose them." (ESV)

© 2009 by Mary DeMuth. All rights reserved.

Proverbs 31 Ministries

616-G Matthews-Mint Hill Road

Matthews, NC 28105

www.proverbs31.org

[Judy Harder]

September 22, 2009

Feel The Burn

Luann Prater

"Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize." 1 Corinthians 9:24 (NIV)

Devotion:

Jagged rocks sunk deep into my knee. They left a hole the size of a quarter and deep enough for my mom to wrap her finger in a washcloth and stick it down in it to clean it out!  (How is that for way too graphic?) This 3rd grade bicycle accident left an impression, literally!

My knee always gave me trouble after that.  Bike riding was still possible because I had the leverage of the other leg. I could walk for miles. But running was a different story.  Running a lap in gym class caused my knee to swell the size of a small cantaloupe!  If the teacher insisted I keep running, the knee would go limp and I would fall on the track.

The school nurse told my mom to take me to the doctor.  He drained it, then wrote a note and handed it to my mom. A prescription? No, a note excusing me from EVER taking another gym class....EVER!  Woo Hoo!  I felt like I had just been released from exercise-prison!

What that did over time, however, was clip the wings of this butterfly.  That note was my "get out of jail free card" and I pulled it out whenever exercise was mentioned.  At first I was fearful that my silly weak knee would let me down and embarrass me in front of my friends, so I would just excuse myself from the fun.  Then I just gave up all together, thinking I could never do anything physical beyond walking.

A few years ago, my sweet friend Lysa began running every morning. I remember thinking, I wish I could do that. My neighbor also runs every morning and asked if I wanted to join her.  "Wish I could," I'd say.

Dealing with congestion in our chests one day, my hubby and I decided to go for a walk. Suddenly I blurted, "Let's run and get active enough to break this stuff up!" He looked to see if I was joking, then saw my serious face.  So we ran.

And I liked it!  I didn't even consult my knee!  We made a second lap and I finally felt it -- the burn.

People talk about feeling the burn but I never really "got it."  However, that day the warm sensation in my limp, lazy muscles felt good.  Stretching past the norm made me feel alive.

Complacency is never good, not physically or spiritually.  Fear of what might happen took the drive out of my physical life. Sometimes fear of what might happen can take the power out of my run with Christ.

Are you pulling out your note of excuses, explaining why being an active Christian just won't work for you? Or are you regularly feeling the burn in your walk with Jesus?

My husband and I are running twice a day now. I feel the burn and I'm LOVIN' IT!

Is God calling you to get off the couch and out in the world to make a difference? If so, get up and go with gusto. 
                                                                                                                                                 
Dear Lord, You never sat lazily on the sidelines and watched life happen while You were here on earth.  You were active in the lives of others.  Help me Father to love the burn that comes with stretching my faith. Take my hand Lord and teach me to run! In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

The Uncommon Woman: Making an Ordinary Life Extraordinary by Susie Larson

Making It Real: Whose Faith is it Anyway? by T. Suzanne Eller

Visit Luann's Blog

Listen to Today's Radio Show

Application Steps: 

Stretch yourself today.  What can you do to get off the sidelines of life and get into the race? 

Reflections: 

What excuses have I made to stay in my comfort zone? 

Will I take that first step and decide to run my race with faith?

Who could I share this word of encouragement with to spur them to live an active life with Jesus?

Power Verses:

Hebrews 12:1, "Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us." (NIV)

Proverbs 31:17, "She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks." (NIV)         

© 2009 by Luann Prater. All rights reserved.

Proverbs 31 Ministries

616-G Matthews-Mint Hill Road

Matthews, NC 28105

www.proverbs31.org