Encouragement for Today

[Judy Harder]

 August 5, 2011

When Good Isn't Always God's Best
Glynnis Whitwer


"Submit to God and be at peace with him; in this way prosperity will come to you." Job 22:21 (NIV)

I always thought I would be a professional woman. I'd gone to college, bought the briefcase, suit and heels, and planned my future. Although I wanted children, I envisioned them complementing my life, much like a pretty piece of jewelry. Little did I know God had a completely different agenda.

In a span of four years, my husband and I had three little boys. All active.

I just about lost my mind. Seriously. I remember grocery shopping alone with them...once. Four-year-old Joshua promised he would walk next to me, which of course he didn't. So there I was, chasing Josh, with two-year-old Dylan trying to climb out of the cart to follow and baby Robbie screaming because he hated being confined. I felt like climbing over the cart, and running down the aisle screaming myself.

From that day on, I embraced bribery with no shame. If it got me through a shopping trip, I tried it.

But it wasn't just shopping that did me in. I dragged my three little boys places I saw other mothers take their children. Only their little ones sat quietly, playing nicely with small toys. My boys however, saw an adventure waiting to happen everywhere we went. If they were quiet, that meant trouble. I lost track of the number of meetings and events I left in tears, angry at what seemed like limitations on the life I thought I was supposed to have.

During those early years of parenting, I tried to regain my old life, and find the old Glynnis, but it just wasn't happening. My personal goals slammed into reality on a daily basis, leaving me frustrated and questioning what I thought was my calling.

With a college degree, wasn't I supposed to be pursuing a career? Didn't God want me to use my administrative talents in the church? Wasn't I supposed to volunteer to lead women's ministry, direct vacation Bible school, head up an outreach program and sing in the choir? If so, why couldn't I do it all anymore?

I had been going a hundred miles an hour my own way. And not once did this God-following girl stop to see if I was letting Him lead. I didn't ask for His priorities. After all, my responsibilities and choices were all "good" things. And, God had equipped me with talents to do them. But there was a problem I ignored — they weren't God's assignments for me at that time.

It took a mini earthquake in the form of a cross-country move to get my attention. With that move, God took away all those "good" things. For a time, I rebelled in my heart. I blamed my husband for taking me out of God's will as I saw it.

My life felt empty, with nothing left. When I finally stopped feeling sorry for myself, I looked up and saw there was something: a loving husband and three precious little boys.

In my determination to serve God the way I always had, I missed that He had changed my mission field. No longer was it focused outside my home. God showed me that my first line of ministry was to my husband and children. This realization rearranged my priorities and changed my relationship with God and my family.

I learned that good things aren't always my assignment. And just because I can do something doesn't mean I should. Those three little boys are now teenagers, and God added two girls to our family six years ago. He also added back in career and volunteer responsibilities that I do from home. But one thing has not changed: I must seek God's will for my life in this season...because this season isn't last season, and good isn't always God's best.

Dear Lord, thank You for loving me in spite of my stubborn and determined ways. I'm sorry for the times I've neglected to seek Your will for me. Help me to become a woman who submits her dreams and goals into Your loving hands. You have never failed to bring me joy and satisfaction when I do so. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
P31 Woman magazine

Glynnis is celebrating the release of her newest book, I Used to Be So Organized. If you'd like to order a copy, click here.

Visit Glynnis' blog for a giveaway of her latest release, I Used to Be So Organized.

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!

Application Steps:
Is there commitment or responsibility in your life that has stopped bringing you joy, or adds stress to your primary relationships? If so, ask God if it's time to release this responsibility.

Reflections:
What fears do women have when it comes to submitting their dreams and goals to God?

What are some of the benefits to embracing the season (and inherent limitations) I am currently in?

Power Verses:
Romans 12:2, "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is — his good, pleasing and perfect will." (NIV)

1 Corinthians 10:23, "'I have the right to do anything,' you say — but not everything is beneficial. 'I have the right to do anything'— but not everything is constructive." (NIV)

© 2011 by Glynnis Whitwer. All rights reserved.

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

[Judy Harder]

August 8, 2011

The Prayer that Changed My Life
Wendy Pope


"Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us..." Ephesians 3:20 (NIV)

Twenty-two thousand women sat on the edge of their seats as the teacher standing center stage asked, "Do you want to have an insatiable love for Jesus?" Her words hung in the air. Then she answered, "Pray to. If you want an insatiable love for Jesus, then pray to."

Scrambling to find my pen and struggling to spell the word insatiable, I wrote these simple yet powerful words in my conference notebook. The words stung my heart. As they fell from her lips, I knew this was a love for Jesus I did not have.

What I did have was church membership, a lot of church service, and some love. While Jesus was my Savior, something was missing.

I realized I had asked Jesus to be my Savior but not allowed Him to be my Lord. I loved Him for what He did but not for who He was. At age 34, I wanted to cry out this "pray to" prayer. But I wondered, "What must God think of me?"

Service to Him had been my life. Dedication to my church was paramount. But love? How could I not really love Jesus? Certainly He would be disinclined to hear such an elementary prayer from a grown woman who'd been a Christian much of her life.

My thoughts were misguided. It was a prayer God wanted to answer immeasurably more than I could think or imagine. He wanted me to have an insatiable love for Him!

The speaker's challenge that day became a lifestyle of prayer for me. Over time the emptiness in my heart was filled with a love for Jesus I had never known. My heart not only praised Him for what He had done in my life, but now loved Him for who He was: my Lord.

My obedience and service started to flow from a heart of love instead of duty. Lies that once shaped my life and negative feelings about myself where shattered by the honesty and power of His Word. The security of knowing Him as Lord gave me what I had been looking for my whole life. I found freedom in knowing who I am and courage to live like it's true.

The promise and power of today's key verse proved faithful in my life, changing me forever. Today, I want to challenge and invite you the same. Do you want to love Jesus with an insatiable love?

If you want to, then pray to.

Humble yourself before the Lord and ask Him to help you love Him. He will give you immeasurably more than you can imagine. Over time the emptiness in your heart will be filled with a love for Jesus you have never known. Your heart will praise Him for what He has done and for who He is—your Lord. If you want to, pray to.

Dear Lord, I want to love You with an insatiable love. Answer my prayer immeasurably more than I can think of or imagine. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
Do You Know Him?

The prayer that changed Wendy's life gave her an insatiable love for Jesus and opened doors for her to surrender her life in ministry. God has uniquely gifted Wendy to teach a daily online Bible Study on her blog. Visit today and sign up to receive her daily posts at Walking with Women through the Word.

Wendy wrote about the changes God made in her life as she prayed the "pray to" prayer in her book, Out of the Mouths of Babes. Read it today to see what God can do when you "pray to."

Living Free in Christ: Experiencing Life as it was Meant to Be (CD) 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!

Application Steps:
Commit to "pray to." Pray the "pray to" prayer until you begin to experience Him every day. Journal the changes God is makes in you life.

Reflections:
What is the Lord teaching me through today's devotion?

How will I respond to this "pray to" challenge?

Power Verses:
Psalm 54:2, "Hear my prayer, O God; Give ear to the words of my mouth." (NIV 1984)

Psalm 69:13, "But I pray to you, LORD, in the time of your favor; in your great love, O God, answer me with your sure salvation." (NIV)

Romans 8:26, "In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans." (NIV)

© 2011 by Wendy Pope. All rights reserved.

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

[Judy Harder]

 August 9, 2011

It Just Takes One
Marybeth Whalen


"But the gift is not like the trespass. For if the many died by the trespass of the one man, how much more did God's grace and the gift that came by the grace of the one man, Jesus Christ, overflow to the many!" Romans 5:15 (NIV)

"I just wanted to tell you," she said. "It just takes one." She knew we had our house up for sale and wanted to offer me a word of encouragement. She had also recently been through having her house on the market and knew what I was facing.

As she grabbed my hands in her own, she looked at me earnestly and said. "It just takes one person to come along and love your house and want to buy it. Hang onto that when you get overwhelmed. God will send that one."

I have thought about what she said to me, and how this Truth applies in many aspects of my life. God will send that one. The one person who can best encourage me. The one person who will provide the answers I am seeking. The one nugget of Truth my soul is craving. The one bit of hope when everything seems desperate around me.

What is that "one" thing you are waiting for God to send you right now? Maybe it is that one test result you are waiting for. Maybe it is that one check you need desperately to show up in the mail so you can make it to payday. Maybe it is that one affirmation you need to hear, but rarely do.

Do you believe that God will send that one? Do you walk in that belief, even when circumstances around you say otherwise? Do you focus on what is happening, or God's promises?

God's most wonderful promise came through the One who could be tempted yet sinless, Lion yet lamb, human yet God. God's plan for redemption came through His one and only Son.

It just took one—one sacrifice, one resurrection, one hope for eternity. Humanity cried out for restoration and God responded by sending that One.

"It just takes one," the woman told me. And that is true, even in this broken, fallen world. So many times that "one" seems far away, so insurmountable, that we despair of ever seeing it come to pass.

Make today the day that you live believing in that one thing happening—whether it is a sold sign in your yard or healing in a relationship; turn to the Creator of all things with whatever is on your heart. Spend today reflecting on that one sacrifice He made on your behalf, because of His unfailing love for you. Trust Him to do what is best for you—whatever His answer may be—and live in expectation of the abundant life He has promised.

Dear Lord, help me to trust in You to send the answers I need. Help me to take my eyes off my circumstances and focus solely on You. Thank You for the sacrifice of Your precious Son so that I could have salvation. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
Do You Know Him?

She Makes It Look Easy by Marybeth Whalen.

For more encouragement from Marybeth and to view all of her resources click here.

Jesus Lives: Seeing His Love in Your Life, by Sarah Young

Application Steps:
In your journal, write a letter to God telling Him about that one thing your heart is crying out for. Offer the letter up to Him with a prayer of sacrifice and humble surrender. Reaffirm your trust in Him.

Reflections:
What is God teaching you through your time of waiting? How can you best use this time? In what ways is it making you stronger spiritually and in your relationship with Him?

Power Verses:
Acts 15:11, "No! We believe it is through the grace of our Lord Jesus that we are saved, just as they are." (NIV)

Romans 5:12, "Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all men, because all sinned." (NIV)

Romans 5:10, "For if, while we were God's enemies, we were reconciled to Him through the death of His Son, how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through his life!" (NIV)

© 2011 by Marybeth Whalen. All rights reserved.

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

[Judy Harder]

 August 10, 2011

Beat Up or Built Up?
Renee Swope


"What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?" Romans 8:31 (NIV)

One morning I woke up feeling beat up by discouragement. My mind was being bullied by thoughts of doubt: I can't do it all! I am not cut out to be a wife, a mom, a daughter, a speaker, a writer and all the other things God has called me to. My thoughts were against me, and my feelings were too.

As I lay in bed feeling completely inadequate, my radio alarm came on. Suddenly my thoughts were interrupted by Twila Paris singing to me. With confident assurance, she spoke truth to my soul, telling me this was no time for fear, but a time for faith and determination. She challenged me not to lose my vision or be carried away by my emotions, but to hold on to all that I had hidden in my heart, and all I believed to be true. Then she reminded me of the most important truth of all: God is in control. [1]

As I heard these words, my thoughts aligned with God's truth. It changed my whole perspective. I went from feeling afraid to feeling determined and from feeling out of control to knowing God is in control.

We have the choice either to let doubt beat us up or to let God's truth build us up.

If we have Christ in us, we have full access to God's power and His promises to live with a confident heart. But it won't just happen because it's possible. We have to take action.

When my alarm came on that morning, I was so glad I'd set my radio to that station the night before, so I would wake up hearing encouraging music and truth. Just like I tuned into that station, we need to get intentional about tuning our thoughts into God's thoughts toward us, every day.

In the same way a radio has AM and FM frequencies, so do our thoughts. They are either AM (against me) or FM (for me) thoughts. The truth is, we are often our worst critics and have a lot of AM thoughts.

And if our thoughts are against us, our feelings will be too.

So, the next time you get those feelings of uncertainty and self-doubt, stop and ask the Holy Spirit to show you what you are thinking that is making you feel that way. Then compare your thoughts about that situation to God's thoughts, which are reflected in Scripture. Do they match? If not, find a promise in God's Word to replace the lie that has filled your heart with doubt. Here are few to get your started:

• When doubt comes against me, saying I'm weak and all alone, I will focus on the truth that God is for me! I can be strong and courageous because the Lord my God is with me. He will never leave me nor forsake me. (Deuteronomy 31:6, NIV)

• When doubt comes against me, saying I'm not good enough for a certain role or position, I will remember that God is for me! He says I am His masterpiece, created to be new in Christ so that I could do good things He planned long ago. (Ephesians 2:10, NIV)

Lord, Your Word says I am a chosen woman, a royal priest, a holy daughter, a woman belonging to You. Help me remember that You are calling me out of the darkness of my doubts so that I can tell others about the Light I've found in You. Thank You that You are with me to fight for me against my enemies of insecurity and inadequacy. In all these things, I am more than a conqueror through Him who loves me. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
For more AM/FM thoughts visit the FREE resources page on Renee's website. That way, when doubt tries to beat you up, you'll have God's promises to build you up instead!

A Confident Heart: How to Stop Doubting Yourself & Live in the Security of God's Promises. If you'd like to find out more or order a copy, click here.

Join over 25,000 women who have gone on Renee's "7-day DOUBT Diet" — it includes a week's worth of FREE devotions from her book, A Confident Heart. To sign up for "7-day DOUBT Diet," click here.

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. Therefore, we are extremely grateful for each and every purchase you make with us. Thank you!

Application Steps:
When feelings of self-doubt come, write down the AM (against me) thought you are thinking and look for a FM (for me) promise in scripture to replace the lie that has filled your heart with doubt. Click here for a list of more AM/FM thoughts.

Reflections:
What area of my life—as a woman, mom, wife, friend, daughter, housekeeper, professional, leader, etc.—do I currently have the most "against me" thoughts in?

How can I get intentional this week about replacing my AM thoughts with FM—God is for me—thoughts from His Word?

Power Verses:
1 Peter 2:9, "But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light." (NIV)

Deuteronomy 20:4, "For the LORD your God is the one who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies to give you victory." (NIV)

Romans 8:37, "No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us." (NIV)

[1] "God Is In Control," © 1993 by Twila Paris. All Rights Reserved. From He Is Exalted: Live Worship CD.

© 2011 by Renee Swope. All rights reserved.

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

[Judy Harder]

 August 11, 2011

The Slippery Slope
Lysa TerKeurst


"...to open their eyes and turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God..." Acts 26:18 (NIV)

Have you ever felt yourself pulled into a forbidden but exciting situation? You sense red flags but convince yourself you can handle it. "I'm just having a little fun. This won't ever amount to anything. It just gives me a little something to look forward to."

That's the way a friend of mine felt when a nice guy at work started paying attention to her. Her marriage was hard and she was tired of trying so much. She found herself putting extra effort into getting dressed in the morning and being more than willing to work late.

She felt a spark in her heart every time he came near. Soon, they were talking in secret. Texting in secret. Meeting in secret. And down the slippery slope she went.

The slippery slope has one major tell tale sign—things are done in secret.

The minute we start hiding things from those who love us, doing things in a sneaky way, lying or telling half-truths, and figuring out ways to cover up evidence of our activities—we're on the slippery slope. And we're headed downhill fast.

Satan is the master of darkness. As long as he can keep us operating in our dark secrets, we are deceived. In the Message, Acts 26:17-18 we are reminded:

"'I'm sending you off to open the eyes of the outsiders so they can see the difference between dark and light, and choose light, see the difference between Satan and God, and choose God. I'm sending you off to present my offer of sins forgiven, and a place in the family, inviting them into the company of those who begin real living by believing in me.'"

Oh sweet friend, we need to see the difference between dark and light and choose light. We need to bring our choices out into the light of Jesus so He can expose the truth. Only then can we truly discern the difference between being led by Jesus or deceived by Satan.

Things done in secret are an indication of being led by Satan. That's a strong statement but one worth really considering.

Satan keeps dangers off our radar screen and blinds us to the harsh realities coming our way. My friend was blinded. And when she finally woke up to the deception, the devastation horrified her.

If you're keeping secrets today, bring them out into the light:

• Find a trusted Christian friend and ask them to help you hold your choices up to the truth.

• Get honest with people who love you.

• Build accountability measures in your life.

• Ask Jesus for help, forgiveness, and a clear understanding of how to put on the brakes and throw things in reverse. Let His truth speak louder than the feelings that are begging you to keep things hidden. Like the end of verse 18 says, "begin real living by believing in me."

The path to real living—the living that will sustain you and lead you to a true discovery of real love, real provision and real satisfaction—is found only by following Jesus.

Dear Lord, protect me from the darkness of Satan today. Help me to bring my choices into Your light, because only You can expose the truth. You are the only way. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
If you are tempted to hide your struggles with food, or other pleasures that pull you away from God, don't miss Lysa's book: Made to Crave. Also, you'll want to consider doing the 6 week Bible study using this DVD set: Made to Crave DVD by Lysa TerKeurst

If you enjoy Lysa's devotions, be sure to sign up for notes of encouragement she sends out from her blog by clicking here. They are free and great for passing along to friends.

Lysa will be speaking in more than 40 cities this year. Click here to see her schedule. She would be honored to meet you.

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!

Application Steps:
If you're keeping secrets today, bring them out into the light. Find a trusted Christian friend and ask them to help you hold your choices up to the truth. Get honest with people who love you. This can be the beginning of lasting change for you.

Reflections:
Jesus can resurrect everything brought down by Satan. He is the lifter of my head, the redeemer of my circumstances, and the One who can set me back in flight.

Power Verses:
1 Peter 2:9, "But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light." (NIV, 1984)

John 3:19, "This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but people loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil." (NIV)

Ephesians 5:8, "For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light." (NIV)

© 2011 by Lysa TerKeurst. All rights reserved.

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

[Judy Harder]

August 12, 2011

Unlovable
Samantha Reed, Executive Assistant


"Many waters cannot quench love; rivers cannot wash it away." Song of Solomon 8:7a (NIV 1984)

"I'm unloveable."

How many times has this thought consumed your mind? It swirls powerfully, like muddy rapids. Thrashing heart and mind round and round like a toy boat in a damaging river of doubt, fear and lies.

The "I'm unlovable" thought often tosses us from one painful situation to the next.

Rejection from a parent leads to a heart desperate to fill the void that leads to an unloving abusive relationship. A broken heart is patched up with food that leads to weight gain that makes us feel less than beautiful and unworthy of love.

The bruised parts of our hearts can lead us down dark alleys littered with regrets and sadness.

I don't assume to know the tongue lashings, torturous words or deeds, and taunts you've endured. I don't know what rejections, rudeness, or raw aches have slayed your heart. I don't know what choices you've made—what choices were made for you—that pushed you into the roaring rush of this river that tries to drag you down with lies and pain.

I only know this—you will drown in that river unless you grab hold of this safety rope: You are loveable.

Yes. You. You are loveable.

There is an all loving Creator who is sovereign. This is a big word with bigger meaning: all powerful. He had the choice to concoct you in His mind. He had the option to create you. He had the wherewithal to call you by name. He didn't have to.

He could have said,
Nah, I know how that one turns out.
Depression and doubts are her go-to's instead of Me.
Guys are allowed to violate her body.
Her marriage falls apart.
Her relationship with her parents isn't good.
Her kids can't stand her.
She's frumpy.
She's not worthy of My time or talent.
She's not lovable.

But He didn't. No.

Instead, He said,
I know how that one turns out.
She trusts me despite her teetering emotions and difficult circumstances.
She redeems her past to inspire purity in young girls.
She encourages and invests in other's marriages.
It's My delight to be her Father and call her My daughter.
Her knees hit the ground in fervent prayer for her children.
She's beautiful.
She's worthy of my Son's life and death.
She's so lovable, I call her Mine and nothing she does—nothing that happens to her—can take My love from her.

I don't know why you don't feel you're lovable. Or what lies come trying to convince you that your past, your actions, your shame, your guilt disqualifies you from love.

What I do know is this: you are worthy of love. You are loveable. And you are qualified as a child of God. But don't take my word. Take His...

This is what the LORD says: '[Insert your name] who survives [insert what makes you feel unlovable] will find favor in the desert; I will come to give rest to [her].' The LORD appeared to us in the past, saying: 'I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with loving-kindness. I will build [Insert your name] up again and you will be rebuilt.'" (Jeremiah 31:2-4a, NIV 1984)

Dear Lord, I praise you for I am fearfully and wonderfully made! Thank You for knowing me fully and loving me completely. Please help me know...truly know...I am loveable. Thank You for the freedom You give from the hurt and lies. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
Do You Know Him?

Partner with us and Compassion International to share God's love and lift a child out of the "I'm unlovable" river. Click here to sponsor a child!

In her book, A Confident Heart, Renee Swope shows us how to live in the promise of God's Love, and find security knowing that HIS LOVE will never fail, even if we do. Click here to find out more.

Visit Samantha's blog for more encouragement and enter to win a copy of A Confident Heart by Renee Swope.

Application Steps:
Write a love letter to the Lord, thanking Him for all the ways He has shown His love to you. Remind yourself of these ways God has shown His love for you when you feel unlovable.

Reflections:
What sin, shame, doubt or fear am I holding onto that cause me to feel unlovable?

Do I need to forgive someone, or myself, for what happened that left me feeling unlovable?

Power Verses:
Micah 7:18, "Who is a God like You, who pardons iniquity And passes over the rebellious act of the remnant of His possession? He does not retain His anger forever, Because He delights in unchanging love." (NASB)

© 2011 by Samantha Reed. All rights reserved.

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

 

[Judy Harder]

 August 15, 2011

Why You Should Hang Up Your Robe
Glynnis Whitwer


"However, I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me..." Acts 20:24 (NIV)

My first instinct was to leave the clean, folded clothes on top of the dresser. Granted, my arms were filled with freshly laundered items, so it would have been difficult to open the drawer while balancing the stack. I had an excuse for leaving them on top. Didn't I? Instead, I pushed past my instinct, took 30 more seconds, and placed the clothes neatly in the drawer.

This tendency to not complete a task happens with surprising regularity. I toss my bathrobe on the bed, drape jeans on the tub, and set the television remote on the nearest counter top. However, sometimes, when I'm a bit more self-aware, I take the few extra steps needed to actually finish the task.

Years ago, I realized my practice of stopping short of finishing what I started led to a cluttered home and office. Back then, I had a multitude of unfinished tasks that I just lived with. It wasn't all simple things like putting away clothes, but included larger tasks like leaving a wall half painted.

Starting a project is fun, and usually involves a burst of energy. Then, that energy wanes as I approach the finish line. Instead of pushing to complete the task, assignment or project with excellence, I lean towards settling for good enough. Unfortunately, when I settle for "good enough" consistently, I learn to live with mediocrity. And accepting mediocrity is far from where God wants me to be. You see, finishing what we start is more than a good organizational or home management skill. It's also a spiritual discipline.

As I identified the tendency to settle, I realized it affected me in a variety of ways throughout my life. In the past I accepted a distant relationship with God rather than one of intimacy. I've limited my understanding of Scripture to a surface level. My relationships with others have gone no deeper than, "Hi, how are you doing?" Instead of pushing to explore the fullness of what God offers in all areas, it is easier to stop short. Perhaps it's safer. Simpler. And with less personal discomfort or inconvenience.

Interestingly, it's actually been somewhat easy to address this issue. I admit the tendency within myself to settle, and I get firm with myself about it. Now, when I would prefer to leave the dryer full of clothes, or emails half typed, I say to myself, "Finish what you start." I make a conscientious decision to finish the task at hand before I move on to something new. Obviously, there are some projects that require more effort, but this works on many of my issues.

I'm not sure of all the reasons for stopping short of finishing with excellence, but I do know the results. I end up with unfulfilled commitments, open loops and shallow relationships. That's a far cry from the life Jesus came to bring, which is full and abundant. Not a partial life, but one lived with pushing to the limits and exploring the outer reaches.

Maybe that seems a deep principle to pull from putting clothes in a drawer or a dirty bowl in the dishwasher. However, the discipline of finishing well is one that is woven through my life...or it's not.

So I guess I'll take the extra step and actually hang up my robe. It's one more stitch in this tapestry of finishing well that God is trying to create in my life.

Dear Lord, thank You for demonstrating finishing well through the life of Jesus. I know Jesus could have stopped short of paying the price for my salvation. But He didn't. For that I will be eternally grateful. Please help me push through mediocrity in my life and explore the fullness You long to bring. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
Visit Glynnis' blog for tips on ways to address the loose ends in your life and a giveaway of her new book, I Used to Be So Organized.

I Used to Be So Organized: Help for Reclaiming Order and Peace by Glynnis Whitwer

P31 Woman magazine Senior Editor, Glynnis Whitwer

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!

Application Steps:
Identify one home or office task that would take you less than 30 minutes to finish. Commit to finishing this in the next five days.

Reflections:
What are some reasons I avoid finishing certain tasks?

Could procrastination reflect a deeper spiritual issue for me?

Power Verses:
John 19:30, "When he had received the drink, Jesus said, 'It is finished.' With that he bowed his head and gave up his spirit." (NIV)

Genesis 2:2, "By the seventh day God had finished the work he had been doing; so on the seventh day he rested from all his work." (NIV)

© 2011 by Glynnis Whitwer. All rights reserved.

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

[Judy Harder]

 August 16, 2011

Greater Love
Luann Prater


"Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends." John 15:13 (NIV)

I'm a killer. Yes, you read that right. I'm laying it out there and admitting it. Although, it's probably not what you think ... I've been a friendship-killer for much of my life.

I've wondered if it is from my dysfunctional home life as a kid. We moved annually, which meant a different school every year until I was a teenager. For an extremely shy girl this was terrifying. Dread and cold sweats came the night before I had to face another new classroom, new stares, new whispers and new giggles.

The layers built up; I figured it didn't really matter if classmates liked me because I probably wouldn't be there long anyway. Occasionally I would open up just a bit. Then Mom would say, "Pack up," and along with the boxes, my heart would seal up too.

It just hurt too much to hope that friendships could ever last. I was certain they couldn't, so I killed them before they ever developed deep. End it now before I'm too invested, was my mindset.

Maybe you know exactly what I'm talking about. We can fool ourselves into thinking that we don't need to open up and risk the pain of rejection or the devastation of potential loss.

Girlfriend, let me tell you what I discovered. The apostle John paints a portrait of a warm, real Jesus. Through that portrait Jesus reached out to me. He came into my heart and at that moment the love of the Savior began changing my life. I now have a greater love. I have found the same living water that Jesus offered to the woman at the well in the gospel of John.

It's been a spring welling up to eternal life! And I've discovered that when you begin to live that effervescent life, it becomes contagious! The joy that bubbles up from the inside cannot be hidden. Others are drawn to you and wonder how you can have joy in all circumstances.

And then it happens. Friendships develop. The old me would shut down, walk away or sabotage a relationship. I just didn't think I had what it takes to keep a friendship alive and healthy. And I don't, but God does. The new me embraces friends!

Maybe you've struggled with friendships. God crossed our paths today on purpose. He is asking us to take a risk. Let your guard down and love, as He loved us.

Dear Lord, thank You for loving me and teaching me how to welcome friends into my life with a greater love. Open my mind to see beyond myself today and take the risk of relationships built on You. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
Do You Know Him?

Visit Luann's blog and Encouragement Café!

When a Woman Meets Jesus: Finding the Love Every Woman Longs For by Dorothy Valcarcel

God's Purpose for Every Woman a Proverbs 31 Ministries Devotional Book

Application Steps:
Read John 4. Ask God to open your heart to His greater love. Slip on your God goggles and look for hurting hearts around you today.

Reflections:
What relationship does God want to grow in my heart?

When will I take the risk?

How can I reach out to someone with greater love today?

Power Verses:
Matthew 19:19b "...love your neighbor as yourself." (NIV)

Luke 6:27 "But I tell you who hear me: Love your enemies and do good to those who hate you." (NIV)

© 2011 by Luann Prater. All rights reserved.

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

[Judy Harder]

 August 17, 2011

Is God Enough?
Melissa Taylor


"And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:19 (NIV 1984)

Is God enough? It's a question that my circumstances bring me back to quite often. Over a lifetime I've concluded not only is God enough, but He has to be enough.

It takes effort on my part to make sure my heart is staying in this truth.

As a young child, I didn't realize my need for God, but I did realize I had a need that was not fulfilled. I was sexually abused when I was seven years old. My dad left our family when I was eleven. Both circumstances left me devastated, and I didn't understand how God could bring healing at that time. I spent many years trying to heal myself and make myself feel better.

Nothing was enough to meet my needs. Nothing worked.

As I grew older, I moved from being a Christian who simply believed to becoming a Christian actively seeking and following Jesus. And my life began to change.

Because I was having direct conversations with God and consistently reading His Word, I was challenged. I learned that when the hard knocks came, and they would, I needed to ask one question in order to move on: "Is God enough?"

When a friend betrays me, is God enough?

When I need to forgive what seems unforgivable, is God enough?

When my child has issues out of my control, is God enough?

When my marriage is on the brink of destruction, is God enough?

When I am not forgiven by another, is God enough?

When my mom is dying of cancer, is God enough?

When others don't recognize my value, is God enough?

When I struggle professionally, is God enough?

When someone I love uses words to hurt me, is God enough?

When I am in debt and don't know how I'll pay my bills, is God enough?

When my past haunts me, is God enough?

When my health declines, is God enough?

When I am let down and disappointed in my life, is God enough?

The last time I asked "Is God enough?" I opened a box of personalized Bible verses someone very special had given me. Reading verse by verse out loud silenced the thoughts paralyzing me with self-doubt.

I discovered the answer I always came to when I asked "Is God enough?" Yes He is.

Nothing here on earth is guaranteed. If I lost everything, I'd be okay because no one can take away my Jesus. Whether I live in a mansion on a hill or a shack in the swamp, I have my Jesus. Whether the world is for me or against me, I have my Jesus. When I am knocked down, I get on my knees and find my Jesus.

When life becomes more than you think you can handle, don't quit. And certainly don't believe the lie God is not enough. Instead, ask yourself, "Is God enough for me? Then plant His Word deep in your heart so you'll always have the ready answer, that yes He is. He is enough for me, for you: "And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus." (Phil. 4:19)

Dear Lord, help me to realize and remember the secret to being content in all circumstances is You. Help me to be aware of Your presence in my life at all times. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
Visit Melissa's blog to sign up for her free online Bible study! Join Melissa as she leads a community of online friends to learn how to stop doubting ourselves and start living in the security of God's promises based on Renee Swope's new book, A Confident Heart. All are invited!

Enter to win an autographed copy of A Confident Heart, by Renee Swope by clicking here to visit Melissa's blog

A Confident Heart: How to Stop Doubting Yourself and Live in the Security of God's Promises by Renee Swope

The Women's Devotional Bible

Application Steps:
Honestly assess if God is enough in your life. Do you find yourself needing or wanting more? Remind yourself that God knows you inside and out. He loves you no matter what and He always will.

Reflections:
What can I do today to remind myself that God is enough?

Is there a situation in my life that I need to turn over to the Lord?

Power Verses:
Psalm 33:4, "For the word of the LORD is right and true; he is faithful in all he does." (NIV 1984)

Isaiah 46:3b-4, "You whom I have upheld since your were conceived, and have carried since your birth. Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you." (NIV 1984)

© 2011 by Melissa Taylor. All rights reserved.

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

[Judy Harder]

August 18, 2011

My Triple-Braided Cord
Karen Ehman


"A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken." Ecclesiastes 4:12 (NLT)

I've been embattled in a knock-down, drag-out fight for over a quarter-century now. Sometimes, I feel the little daily battles that are part of this clash completely defeat me, leaving me helpless and hopeless. And I feel alone in my battle.

What is this battle that consumes me? It is one that many women face. My constant, decades-long skirmish is with food. Or rather with my desire for food. Bad foods. Wrong foods. Or just vast quantities of food.

A few years back, I felt I'd come to the end of my rope. Severely overweight and reeling from seven different medical conditions, I finally determined to do something decisive for fear I might wind up like my aunt. She died unexpectedly of a heart attack when she was only in her early forties. I had just celebrated my 40th birthday, was the same size my aunt had been, and shared many of her medical issues.

So one day with desperate determination, a pair of hand-me-down walking shoes, and my trusty calorie counter in hand, I set off to religiously follow a weight-loss and exercise regimen. And follow it I did — to the T! Eleven months later, I'd dropped over 100 pounds. All my health conditions disappeared without any medication and I felt better than I had in my twenties. I boldly determined that never, EVER again would I let that weight creep back on.

Fast forward three years. One snowy Christmas eve, my husband's company gave him notice of a layoff. It lasted for nearly 9 months. Money was tight. The future looked bleak. I was worried and teetering on the brink of depression. I hate to admit that, sadly, I again turned to food instead of to God. I made it my comfort; my distraction; my friend.

However, this familiar "friend" quickly became my archenemy. Over the course of those 9 months, I gained back over a third of the weight I'd lost! Now entrenched in the thick of the battle again, I was weary and weak; embarrassed and embittered. However, one day God sent me today's key verse. He whispered in my soul's ear that I needed to stop fighting the battle alone. Time to call in the troops!

I phoned my friend Lysa and asked her if she would not only pray for me, but allow me to "weigh-in" with her once a month to let her know if I'd lost or gained. She too has fought the same battle and was gracious and willing to be my second strand, watching my back and enabling me to conquer.

Another friend, who also has fought weight issues, sensed how much my regain was bothering me. On one of my darkest days, she took my chin in her hand, looked me squarely in the eye, and told me I was beautiful and that I needed to stop allowing Satan to beat me up. Shari became my third strand. She committed to pray for me, and I started emailing her each month with a report from the front lines of my battlefield.

Knowing these "I've-been-there" sisters were both rooting, as well as praying, for me has made an immense difference.

Whether it is extra weight on our thighs or excess baggage in our souls, we women all face heated, hard battles. Our key verse today teaches us to decide not to wage war all alone.

God wants us to enlist another strand or two to strengthen one another in the fight to overcome strongholds and worship Him alone. Satan shudders when God's gals band together, with Jesus at the forefront, to courageously face the battle before us.

Dear Lord, forgive me for the times I try to wage war alone. Guide me to someone who will come alongside of me and encourage me not to give up in my quest to glorify You. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
Visit Karen's blog today to find out more about an opportunity for encouragement, connection and accountability as you face your unique battles.

Made to Crave — Satisfying Your Deepest Desires With God, Not Food by Lysa TerKeurst

A Confident Heart: How to Stop Doubting Yourself and Live in the Security of God's Promises by Renee Swope

Share a good laugh and find solid truth with Dear Bathroom Scale

Application Steps:
What areas of battle can you identify where you might need to "call in the troops" for back-up support?

Reflections:
Have there been times in my life when my connection with other women allowed me or a friend to do something that we could never have accomplished alone?

Power Verses:
Matthew 18:19-20, "Again I say to you, if two of you agree on earth about anything they ask, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them." (ESV)

© 2011 by Karen Ehman. All rights reserved.

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