Zoe Elmore

"Live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God."Ephesians 5:2 (NIV)

I could smell the billowing smoke before I even opened the door to our garage; my nose was right, our home was on fire! Literally falling up the stairs I screamed for my husband and son to get out of the house! The firemen arrived and extinguished the flames, then they escorted us away from our home. It was midnight, all the neighbors had returned to their beds, so we took our smoky smelling selves to the nearest hotel.

At our home the next morning, I was greeted by the awful, putrid odor only smoke can leave. That horrible smell had penetrated and permeated everything inside. Even after months of repairs, rebuilding and repainting, the unwelcomed odor lingers and will not soon be forgotten.

In contrast, I fondly recall the warm and inviting fragrances of this joyous season. The heady scent of freshly cut pine boughs intermingled with homemade chocolate-covered cherries and Greek pastries. These are the smells I welcome wafting through our home.

Both smells have distinct characteristics and leave a definite impression. One is overpowering, leaves a negative impression and isn’t something you want to be near. The other is welcoming and inviting and leaves you wanting more.

Have you ever considered the metaphor of fragrance to describe your spiritual life? For believers in Jesus Christ our lives should demonstrate the penetrating influence of Christ. As we allow our lives to reflect His goodness the unique and inviting aroma will be pleasing to Christ and to others.

This priceless fragrance isn’t sold in stores, nor is something you can manufacture. This fragrance is a natural extension of knowing Jesus Christ in a personal relationship. As we abide in Christ we spread the sweet fragrance of His goodness, like a lovely perfume.

Everyday our attitudes, as well as our actions, exude a fragrance. Will it be one that draws others to Christ or deters them from wanting to know Him?

Dear Lord, teach me how to be a sweet fragrance. I pray that You are evident in my life and that others see You and want to know more. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
Do You Know Him?

Visit Zoe’s blog for more encouragement.

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

God’s Purpose for Every Woman: A Compilation of Favorite P31 Devotions by various Encouragement for Today authors. Gen Eds. Lysa TerKeurst and Rachel Olsen

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



Application Steps:
Wear your favorite fragrance today and let it remind you to keep your eyes on what is pleasing to Christ.

Consider the lingering fragrance your life leaves behind.

Reflections:
What are the some of my best characteristics that invite others and welcome them into the family of Christ?

Is God pleased with the fragrance I’m wearing? If not, I will draw near to God and allow Him to redirect me.

Power Verses:
2 Corinthians 2:15, "For we are to God the aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing." (NIV)

© 2010 by Zoe Elmore. All rights reserved.

Labels: God's Perspective, Identity in Christ, Purity, Relationships, Spiritual Growth, Time with God, Trusting God, Walking in Faith

T. Suzanne Eller

"Settle matters quickly with your adversary..." Matthew 5:25a (NIV)

"Do you think we could stop by the auction on the way home from church?" I asked.

Hanging out at auctions isn't my husband's favorite thing, but he said yes. I noted that his voice lacked enthusiasm. "We don't have to go if you don't want to," I said. Then I calmly brought up an event from two months earlier. A time I had felt disappointed.

To be honest, he didn't have a fighting chance.

We arrived at church, tension hanging between us. Worship was wonderful. The sermon was great. But all I could hear was the gentle voice of the Holy Spirit showing me how I had used my words to pin my husband in a corner. I reached for his hand and apologized. He willingly forgave me.

When we think of anger we often think of destructive anger. Words and actions that violate and separate. But that's not how most of us operate. For many, our anger is cool and calm on the outside as we hide the resentment on the inside. Over time it becomes toxic, seeping out in seemingly innocent comments or hidden behind a wall that loved ones cannot penetrate.

Be angry and sin not.

Maybe you push anger down because you believe it is a sin. The reality is that we are going to be disappointed, even in the strongest relationships. Normal families do have conflict. We will get angry at the people we love the most. Anger in itself is not the sin; it's simply an emotion. Anger only becomes toxic when we use it to hurt others or ourselves.

Listen and be slow to speak.

I wasn't angry about the auction, or even my husband's lack of enthusiasm. College classes and other family obligations were taking large chunks of my husband's time. I longed for unscheduled time with my husband.

That was the real issue, something we could work through.

I needed not only to listen to the Holy Spirit to view the real issue, but to listen to my husband's perspective. In spite of my calm demeanor, Richard felt like he was fighting ghosts. My passive aggressive approach made it impossible for Richard to participate in a healthy conversation.

Settle matters quickly.

This incident may seem small, but how many fractured and broken relationships are due to once-small issues that festered under the surface for years? Toxic anger rarely ignites instantly, but simmers as the fire is fed until it burns out of control.

Healthy conflict means that you work through issues immediately, though never in the heat of an argument. It's admitting when we are wrong, and forgiving others for their shortcomings. It's putting yesterday behind us and starting fresh.

Hold up your wounds to the Healer.

Maybe you've been wounded and anger has become your defense mechanism. Are you willing to allow Christ to heal those wounds? When I look at my heart I find scars of old conflicts, but I'm not ashamed of those scars because a scar by its very definition implies healing.

Those marks remind me of the love of Christ, and to never let toxic anger rob me of living and loving fully.

Heavenly Father, I'm angry and I'm hurting. I've let small things become big things that are threatening my well-being, and my relationships. Give me the words to say, and keep the words that I shouldn't say from my lips. I offer my wounds to You today. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

Labels: Balance, Forgiveness, Overcoming, Overcoming Anger, Spiritual Growth, Time with God, Trusting God, Walking in Faith

Lysa TerKeurst

"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind…" Romans 12:2a (NIV)

When I was a young mom, I was desperate for a formula. I truly thought there must be a formula I could plug my family into that would yield great kids. And there were plenty of moms that tried to convince me they had the formula.

"Bottle feed and never let them sleep in your bed."

"Breastfeed until they are 3 and give them the security of sleeping between you and your husband every night."

"Don't ever send them to pre-school. It will be detrimental to their social development."

"Send them to pre-school right away - it's crucial for their social development."

"TV is good."

"TV is bad."

"They must read by age 5."

"Let them take their time learning to read. You'll ruin their love for books if you force them."

"Step in and model healthy conflict resolution when they argue with their siblings."

"Let them handle things on their own."

"Be there 24/7 for your kids."

"Don't be a helicopter mom. Give your kids room to discover who they are without you hovering over them."

Seriously, it's a wonder we moms figure anything out with all the conflicting information and advice we get. I spent the first five years of motherhood convinced I was messing my kids up beyond repair. And it wasn't for lack of trying. Heavens no. I was serious about gathering every morsel of information I could and trying with all my might to decode "the formula."

Well, here's the deal. I now have kids ranging in ages from 22 to 11 and this is my very best advice in regards to the formula. There isn't one.

There is no perfect parenting formula. What works for one kid may not work for another. The seemingly perfect algorithm one family follows could be disastrous for another.

We weren't made to follow formulas. We were made to follow Jesus. Period.

This is true with parenting but it's also true with every other aspect of our lives as well. We were made to follow Jesus' lead in our marriages, our jobs, our ministries, our churches, our friendships, our everything.

In Romans 12:2 Paul so powerfully reminds us, "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."

We weren't made to be robotic followers of this world's formulas. We were made to be transformed into the unique person God appointed to fulfill the assignments set before us. So, on a practical level what does this look like?

It's a simple woman who humbly acknowledges how much she doesn't know about life and readily admits how much she needs Jesus. Not just in spiritual sense…this woman needs Jesus in every way. All throughout her day, she can be heard whispering heart-felt pleas to her Jesus saying, "Show me the way, show me the way, show me the way."

And as she does this, she loosens her grip on all the formulas thrown at her and courageously embraces His gentle voice behind her saying, "This is the way, now walk in it" (Isaiah 30:21).

Dear Lord, help me to follow You and You alone - not a pre-planned formula. Help me to see that I need You more than anything today. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
Visit Lysa’s blog for a list of Bible verses every mom should have.

For more wise advice on becoming the mom you want to be click here to order Lysa’s book: Am I Messing Up My Kids? (This is an updated and expanded version of her book “The Bathtub is Overflowing but I Feel Drained.”)

Becoming More Than a Good Bible Study Girl by Lysa TerKeurst. The best gift you can give your family is the gift of becoming a godly woman.

Becoming More Than a Good Bible Study Girl DVD set

Lysa will be speaking in over 40 cities this year and she’d love to meet you! To check for a city near you, click here.


Application Steps:
We weren't made to be robotic followers of this world's formulas. We were made to be transformed into the unique person God appointed to fulfill the assignments set before us. So, on a practical level what does this look like for you?

Reflections:
What formulas (if any) have you been following or holding onto?

Please pray over each of them to discern if they are in accordance with God's plan for you and your family.

Power Verses:
Matthew 4:19, "'Come, follow me," Jesus said, "and I will make you fishers of men.'" (NIV)

Romans 8:5, "Those who live according to the sinful nature have their minds set on what that nature desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires." (NIV)

John 10:27, "My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me." (NIV)

© 2010 by Lysa TerKeurst. All rights reserved.

Labels: Balance, God's Perspective, Overcoming, Parenting, Time with God, Trusting God, Walking in Faith

Melissa Taylor

"Train up a child in the way he should go. Even when he is old he will not depart from it." Proverbs 22:6 (NASB)

"I'm not joining Facebook and I'm not texting you. Don't text message me either. If you want to tell me something, you'll have to speak to me! You kids don't know how to have conversations anymore," said the grandfather.

His granddaughter replied, "But Grandpa, you are missing out on so much in my life." Grandpa said sternly, "I don't care."

This conversation, which I overheard, stuck with me for days. I bet Grandpa did care. He just didn't know how to relate to his granddaughter, and new technology probably scared him. I admit it scares me too. I'm not fond of change, but I have to face the facts: the world is changing, with or without me.

When my children were younger, breakfast time consisted of a meal, devotion, and Bible reading together. I didn't work outside the home like I do now, so I had time in the morning to devote just to my kids. Now my time is much different; not only do I have to make sure the kids are ready, but I have to be ready too. There are six people running around, fighting for two bathrooms, grabbing a quick bite to eat, and racing out the door. I miss the simpler times when we weren't so busy. I especially miss the intentional time spent teaching my children what I consider most important: God's Word. It seemed so much easier to "train up a child" when they were younger.

Watching my son, Hayden, with his lightning speed thumbs typing out text messages on his cell phone one evening, a thought entered my head. Would it make a difference if I text my kids a Bible verse each day? Quickly I dismissed the thought, thinking it silly to send a message to their phones, when they really should be reading God's Word for themselves. Then I thought of Grandpa. His refusal to his granddaughter and her reply about him missing out on her life saddened me. I decided I didn't want to be like Grandpa.

Texting my kids a verse each day may not radically change their lives, but then again it might. I wondered, Would Jesus text if He were here today?

While on earth, Jesus used language His audience understood, depending on where He was and the culture of that area. His purpose and message did not change, but His delivery and presentation sometimes did. He did whatever it took to reach the people. He walked, rode, sailed, and taught at homes, hillsides, banquets, and dinner tables. I bet if it had been possible back then, He would have texted too.

It's been about six months since I started texting Bible verses to my children. Usually I get a response like "thanks" or no response at all, but sometimes I'll receive a verse back. I send them all the same verse so if the opportunity arises, we can all talk about it together. Texting works for us because I am speaking their language. The message hasn't changed, but the delivery has for the purpose of effectiveness. My son, Dylan, even shared with me that sometimes he forwards the verse to a friend or two.

Texting may not be my favorite way to communicate, but if it ministers to my kids, I don't want to refuse it. It's just one more way I can continue to "train up" my children. Is there a way God is calling you to change in order to communicate more effectively with someone in your life?

Dear Lord, change is hard for me, but if there is a way You'd like for me to change for the sake of another, then I will try. With Your help all things are possible. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
Do You Know Him?

Visit Melissa’s blog and find out how you can receive Melissa’s “Top 10 Ways to Connect with Your Children.”

Authentic Parenting in a Postmodern Culture by Mary E. DeMuth

Family Driven Faith: Doing What it Takes to Raise Sons and Daughters Who Walk with God by Voddie Baucham, Jr.

Parenting Your Teen and Loving It: Being the Mom Your Kids Need by Susie Davis

Application Steps:
Think of one way you can change to better connect with someone in your life.

Reflections:
As a mom, am I doing my best to connect with my kids?

Am I stubborn like Grandpa or willing like Jesus?

Power Verses:
Psalm 119:105, "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path." (NIV)

Matthew 19:26, "With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible." (NIV)

Proverbs 31:28-29, "Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: 'Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all.'" (NIV)
　
© 2010 by Melissa Taylor. All rights reserved.

Labels: God's Perspective, Mentoring, Parenting, Prayer, Time with God, Walking in Faith

Renee Swope

"My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me." John 10:27 (NIV)

I sat on the couch looking out the window, wondering what the future held. Some opportunities were on the horizon. My excitement, mixed with the fear of getting over-committed, ignited a rapid firing of thoughts: What would I say yes or no to? What was God calling me to do? How would I figure out His plans and purpose for my schedule?

Wondering and worrying wasn't getting me anywhere, so I decided to start praying. I wrote questions in a notebook: "Lord, what should I say yes to? Where do You want me to spend my time? Will You please show me Your plans for me this coming year?"

I wanted a sneak peek into God's calendar so I could adjust mine. Instead, I sensed Him telling me not to worry about tomorrow but to live each day in the hear and now.

I'd done pretty well when it came to listening to God in the big things. It was when God called me to small acts of obedience behind the scenes that I was most challenged. A few weeks after my conversation with God and my commitment to listen more closely for His voice, I noticed my husband's side of the closet was a mess. I thought about how J.J. enjoys things being orderly, although it's not his natural inclination.

I remembered how frazzled he seemed the day before. Then I sensed God whispering to my heart, "One way you could really love J.J. and bring peace to his world would be to organize his side of the closet."

"He's a grown man; he can organize his own side of the closet. I have two kids, two dogs and myself to keep up with. Have you seen our garage and attic?" I thought.

"Did you hear Me? Are you going to obey Me now?" God's Spirit nudged.

Just that week I had read the parable of the talents in Matthew 25, and realized my attitude was like that of the third servant. He had not been entrusted with much and he buried his talent in the ground. Maybe he thought, "I wasn't given much so why even worry about being faithful with it? I'll just take it easy on this assignment. The master probably won't notice."

Sometimes I saw my role as a wife, daughter, mother and friend as "average" responsibilities - one-talent kind of assignment. Plenty of people have the same assignments, I thought. Without realizing it, I let myself slip into being selfish, inconsiderate or impatient here and there. But God wanted my willingness in every area of my life - hearing and acting on His promptings in my heart throughout my day.

Why does God want moment-by-moment, day-by-day obedience? Because He wants us to trust Him.

Obedience means actively exchanging our will for His. God knows it is hard for us to hear His voice and follow His plans for our tomorrows when we are not willing to obey Him in our todays. But He promises that when we are faithful with the little things, He will "put us in charge of many things" and give us a deeper joy than we have ever known (Matthew 25:21, NIV).

God is so patient as we learn to trust Him in the big and little things in life. And it's in our relationship with Him that we find the purpose, direction and meaning we're looking for. When we live in the "hear and now" our calling and our calendar begin to reflect our love for Him, not our need for fulfillment or the desire to be important in anyone's eyes but His.

By the way, I reorganized my husband's side of the closet. I’m almost sure I heard God chuckle and felt the warmth of His smile. May He smile on you today as you commit to live in the hear and now - acting on what you hear and living it out now.

Dear Lord, when You look at the assignments You've given me, do You find me faithful? Am I living and listening the way You want me to? Sometimes I fall into the trap of waiting for a better tomorrow or an easier assignment so that I can be faithful. Help me trust You. I want to reflect Your heart and extend Your hands today. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
Renee's talking more about listening to God and learning to recognize His voice at http://www.reneeswope.com/. And she's giving away a book that's helped her follow through on her promise to live in the hear and now. Enter to win by clicking here.

The Power of a Purpose Driven Mom (CD) by Renee Swope

Shaped with Purpose Workbook; Practical Guide to Discovering God's Purpose for Your Life and message on CD, by Renee Swope

For more everyday encouragement, connect with Renee on Facebook

What Happens When Women Say Yes to God by Lysa TerKeurst



Application Steps:
Is there an area of your life where God is calling you to slow down, listen for His voice, and trust Him daily instead of running ahead of His plans?

Ask God to help you listen, recognize, and act on His gentle whispers as you go throughout your day. Visit Renee’s interactive website for more encouragement and ideas on how you can distinguish God's thoughts from yours.

Reflections:
Do I desire to live in the "hear and now" - listening and obeying God in everything, believing I will discover His plans for tomorrow through my faithfulness today?

What roles and relationships has God entrusted to me? (mom, daughter, friend, classmate, wife, sister, etc.) How can I be more faithful in the little things in them?

Power Verses:
1 John 2:5, "If anyone obeys his word, God's love is truly made complete in him." (NIV)

Matthew 25:21, "You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things." (NIV)

© 2010 by Renee Swope. All rights reserved.

Labels: Balance, Confidence, Contentment, God's Perspective, Identity in Christ, Overcoming, Spiritual Growth, Time with God, Waiting On God

Lysa TerKeurst

"One thing God has spoken, two things have I heard: that you, O God, are strong, and that you, O Lord, are loving." Psalm 62:11-12a (NIV)

We moms should never build the stability of our identity on the fragility of our kid's choices.

Have you ever felt like a failure as a mom because you got a not so great call from the principal's office? Me too. On the flip side, have you ever felt like the greatest mom ever because your child got some special recognition? Me too. So, let me say it again just so this crucial truth can sink in a little deeper. I'm repeating it for no other reason, sweet sister, than the fact I need this message. So, forgive me if this devotion preaches a message only to myself.

We moms should never build the stability of our identity on the fragility of our kid's choices.

I've got five amazing kids. I really do. They are wildly funny, imaginative, moody, opinionated, strong, weak, happy, sad, good and sometimes not so good. In other words they're pretty normal. And while I've done everything in my power to raise them to turn out amazingly awesome - and they very well might turn out amazingly awesome - there aren't any guarantees.

Sometimes bad parents raise terrific kids.

And sometimes terrific parents raise kids that chase bad things their whole life.

So, what's a mama to do?

Embrace the process. Learn from the process. Let God speak to us during the process. And see the process of raising kids as an ongoing opportunity to invest beyond ourselves.

We get to love our kids like crazy. Pray for them faithfully. Talk to them regularly. Listen to them tenderly. Model honesty and integrity. And point them to Jesus at every turn.

We get to do all that.

And tucked within these privileges is the reward. As long as I look for the reward within the process, I won't misplace my expectations. I have to rest in the assurance that God sees everything I invest in these kids.

And He will use every step of this process for good. The process will be good for me. And this process will good for my kids. It will be good. But this process won't always make me feel good or look good.

If I always expect my kids to make me feel good or look good, I am setting us all up for failure. My kids were never meant to carry the weight of a mama's need for validation. I can't let their failures send me to bed. And I can't wear their successes like mommy medals of honor.

Motherhood is tough you know?

It really is.

However, it's also our only opportunity to reach into the generations to come and make a difference. So, an imperfect but wonderful difference I will make.

Dear Lord, help me to embrace the privilege and process of motherhood. I see parenting as an opportunity to invest beyond myself. But I also admit that I really need Your help. Please guide me so that I can model You every day in every way. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
Visit Lysa’s blog for a chance to win the ultimate mom gift. You don’t want to miss this!

For more gut honest and wise advice on being the mom you want to be, check out Lysa TerKeurst’s book Am I Messing Up My Kids?

Lysa’s best-selling book, Becoming More Than a Good Bible Study Girl, is helping women know how to better understand and apply the Bible. Every mom should read this!

Becoming More Than a Good Bible Study Girl DVD set

Lysa will be speaking in over 40 cities this year and she’d love to meet you! To check for a city near you, click here.

Application Steps:
If we always expect our kids to make us feel good or look good, we are setting ourselves up for failure. Be honest with yourself and think of some ways you may be doing this. Spend some time resting in God's daily assurance. See your parenting as an opportunity to reach into the generations to come. Reflections: Am I consistently pointing my family to Jesus? How am I doing this?

Have I misplaced any of my expectations?

Power Verses:
2 Corinthians 1:5, "For just as the sufferings of Christ flow over into our lives, so also through Christ our comfort overflows." (NIV)

Ecclesiastes 3:11, "He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the hearts of men; yet they cannot fathom what God has done from beginning to end." (NIV)　
　
© 2010 by Lysa TerKeurst. All rights reserved.

Labels: Balance, Confidence, God's Perspective, Identity in Christ, Overcoming, Parenting, Patience, Spiritual Growth, Time with God, Trusting God, Waiting On God

Lynn Cowell

"The next day Jesus decided to leave for Galilee. Finding Philip, he said to him, 'Follow me.'" John 1:43 (NIV)

Illuminating a small circle just in front of our feet, the flashlight provided safety and direction for only our next step as Rose and I took our pre-sunrise walk. Anxiety eventually gave way to comfort as we discussed the day ahead. We knew the light would lead us in the right direction. We just had to take the next step...

Taking the next step is something Jesus recommended a very long time ago. "Come and you will see." "Follow me." These were the words Jesus spoke to the disciples as He called them. He didn't sit them down and reveal what the next three years would hold. He knew they would be overwhelmed; possibly even turn around. He chose to keep it simple. "Follow me" was all He said. Take the next step...

As a teen, I wanted to know my future. Will all my dreams come true? What college will I attend? Will I work in a church; marry a pastor? Will I live in Iowa near my family? Jesus knew the answers to those questions all along. I didn't go to college. I don't work in a church, nor did I marry a pastor. He knew. In wisdom, He chose to reveal only enough light for me to take the next step.

Sometimes, I catch myself wishing again that I could see my future. I get wrapped up in fear or worry. Career worries: Will I still have this job in five or ten years? Mom worries: Will my children marry spouses passionate about Jesus? Marriage worries: Will my husband and I enjoy a long retirement together? I can spin around issues that really don't have anything to do with this day, with my next step.

Jesus knows. He knows which answers are "yes" and which ones are "no." He knows when and where to reveal to me my next step. My part is simply to take the next step in obedience.

When I was younger, I did not understand those times when He said "no" were stepping stones to His amazing "yes." I learned in the dark that when I step forward in trust and obedience, blessing is down the path. I also had to learn that even those pathways that held pain where part of the process. They were stepping stones in my journey of choosing obedience over worry, fear and control.

Now, when fear and doubt surface in the dark I silence the "what ifs." I remember Jesus' words, "Follow me," and get back on the path that is flickering just ahead-and simply take the next step…a step of trust. I ask Him what I need to do for just today. I walk away from worry by expressing my concerns to Jesus and trust His ability to take care of each and every step.

Dear Lord, the dark can be frightening. Jesus, sometimes my ability to trust seems so much smaller than the step I need to take. Help me to build a history with You. A history of seeing You will help me trust You over and over and over again. I want that. I put my trust in You. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

Application Steps:
Purchase a spiral notebook and write on the front "My History with God." Document areas in your life where unrest lies. Leave space under each entry for room to record God's care for you in these areas. One day, this will be your testimony to pass on!

Life for teens can be confusing. Many choices come their way, yet often there is not enough light in their lives to guide them to the right decision. Would you consider investing in the life of a teen through mentoring? Lynn is sharing with teens today the benefits of being mentored at www.RadRevolution.org. Join in the conversation!

Reflections:
What areas in my life feel out of control, like I'm walking in the dark? Do I feel alone or am I aware of God's presence with me?

Have I had trustworthy people in my life in the past? How have these relationships influenced my ability to trust God?

Power Verses:
2 Samuel 7:28, "O Sovereign LORD, you are God! Your words are trustworthy, and you have promised these good things to your servant." (NIV)

Psalm 9:10, "Those who know your name will trust in you, for you, LORD, have never forsaken those who seek you." (NIV)

Psalm 13:5, "But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation." (NIV)

© 2010 by Lynn Cowell. All rights reserved.

Labels: Balance, Confidence, God's Perspective, Identity in Christ, Overcoming, Overcoming Fear, Patience, Perseverance, Spiritual Growth, Time with God, Trusting God, Waiting On God, Walking in Faith

Wendy Blight

"Faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ." Romans 10:17 (NIV)

Law school. Two words that scare some and impress others.

I gave three years of my life to the study of law…compiling facts, reading case law, applying that law, and making arguments. I spent hour after hour in the law library. Researching, studying, and writing consumed my every day. My hard work paid off when I made law review.
It paid off again when I passed the bar.

It paid off again upon graduation when I walked through the doors to begin my first day at one of the largest, most prestigious firms in downtown Dallas.

It should have been the best time of my life, but instead it felt empty, without purpose. I found no joy, no satisfaction in what I did every day. I spent so much time and invested so much money to get to this place. Something was missing.

What I felt in the depths of my soul was the cry of a dying faith…hunger pangs of a weary soul. I had filled myself full of worldly knowledge, yet I had starved myself of spiritual knowledge.

Friend, do you feel that way as you read my words? Do you feel empty, dry, and weary? Faith feeds on the Word of God. Without a steady intake of God's Word in our lives, we grow weaker and weaker. I tried to feed my faith on a two minute devotional in the morning…maybe a few times a week…if that.

When we starve our faith, we move farther and farther from our Father's heart. We find it hard to trust Him. Sometimes we avoid worshiping Him. We feel guilty. We feel alone. Listen to words from our Father's heart:

• "Faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ." Romans 10:17 (NIV)

• "Jesus answered, 'It is written: Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.'" Matthew 4:4 (NIV)

• Blessed is the one whose "delight is in the law of the Lord, and on His law [she] meditates day and night. [She] is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever [she] does prospers." Psalm 1:2-3 (NIV)

Faith feeds on the Word of God. Our faith has no life apart from what we receive from the Word. I came to the realization that I needed to alter my diet. I needed to feed on something other than case law and legal memoranda.

God drew you to this devotional today. Ask Him why. Has the Lord pricked your heart? Does my story strike a chord with you? With all my heart, I encourage you to not ignore His Word to you today.

Let's be like the blessed one in Psalm 1 who meditates on God's Word day and night. Will you commit with me today to memorize one scripture? To start, find a verse, maybe one from this devotional, and memorize it. You will be putting "faith food" into your heart and mind.

Throughout the next few days, feed on that verse, speak that verse, and share that verse. Watch what God will do.

God will bless your obedience. Your obedience will bear fruit. You will prosper.

Wait and watch and see!

Dear Lord, today I feel weary, empty, and so very far away from You. Please come near, feed me with Your Word, revive my dying faith. Make me like the tree planted by streams of water, yielding fruit and prospering in all I do. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
Do You Know Him?

Visit Wendy’s blog and share your memory verse with her. She would love to pray for you.

Hidden Joy in a Dark Corner: The Transforming Power of God's Story by Wendy Blight

All Things Wise and Wonderful: Applying God's Wisdom in Everyday Life (E-Book) by Wendy Blight

Proverbs 31 Ministries’ offers many Bible studies! Shop online today for one that fits you.

Application Steps:
Pick a verse from the devotional or your own verse and commit to memorize it this week. Please stop by my blog and share your verse with me. I would be honored to pray for you as you take this step.

Reflections:
What is it that takes your time and keeps you from being in God's Word on a consistent basis?

What one step can you take to spend more time with God in His Word? Commit to take that step.

Power Verses:
Matthew 4:4, "Jesus answered, 'Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.'" (NIV)

© 2010 by Wendy Blight. All rights reserved.

Labels: Balance, Identity in Christ, Overcoming, Perseverance, Spiritual Growth, Time with God, Waiting On God

Application Steps:
Satan is a master of keeping that cost hidden until it's too late. Be honest with yourself and think of some of the costs that you have had to endure in your life. Consider coming to grips with these costs and telling your friends, children and others about what you have learned.

Reflections:
How can I, right now where I am, make a different decision with a situation in my life that has a cost?

Have I taken the time to consider the cost?

Have I taken the time to help a friend, my child or my spouse think through considering the cost of their choices?

Power Verses:
2 Corinthians 2:4, "For I wrote you out of great distress and anguish of heart and with many tears, not to grieve you but to let you know the depth of my love for you." (NIV)

Proverbs 4:23, "Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life." (NIV)
　
© 2010 by Lysa TerKeurst. All rights reserved.

Labels: Balance, God's Perspective, Identity in Christ, Overcoming, Spiritual Growth, Time with God, Walking in Faith

Marybeth Whalen

"Show me your ways, O Lord, teach me your paths; guide me in your truths and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long." Psalm 25:4-5 (NIV)

When I was a kid, I had tapes of the music I liked. When I was in college, I had CDs. The point was, when I liked a song, I had to buy the whole tape or CD to get that song.

Sometimes you could buy the cassette single and sometimes you could get lucky enough to tape it from the radio. (Anyone else remember sitting by the radio waiting to catch your favorite song so you could hit record?) But for the most part, you had to buy the whole enchilada.

A funny thing happened when you bought the whole tape or CD, though. Not always, but a lot of the time you found other songs you liked by that artist. Your eyes were opened to other possibilities. (Hang on... I am going somewhere with this...) You discovered a song that you felt like no one else knew about but you because you didn't hear it on the radio. It became personal because it wasn't popular. It was what you found when you were looking for something else.

Now music has changed. One of my kids hears a song and within moments they can get online and have it downloaded to their iPod for $1. No trip to the mall with your hard-earned money, no waiting for your mom to have time to drive you. Just a few clicks and press play. And you also don't have to buy anything you didn't want or know about. You just got what you wanted, when you wanted it. It has revolutionized the music industry. But is it necessarily better that way?

I spent time last week going back through old songs I loved, many of which were songs that were never popular, that most people never heard of. I found them because I had bought the whole tape of some band's latest release. I like them so much because they weren't popular, therefore they didn't get overplayed. They felt mine.

How often I want my faith the way I want my iPod—instant gratification without having to wade through the unknowns. I want what I want when I want it. Point click and play. I don't want God to require me to buy the whole album—to deal with the parts I don't know or like, to take the time to listen to things I might not want to hear.

And yet, I gained a lot from wading through the stuff I never would have tried without being forced. There were unexpected treasures to be found, surprises I ended up valuing more than what I originally set out to find. I wanted to be a mother but I didn't want the sleepless nights and being stretched to the point of breaking. I wanted to be married but I didn't want to learn how to get along with another person day in and day out, to discover what sacrifice really means. I wanted to be a novelist but I didn't want to have to work so hard to make it happen. I wanted to lose weight but I didn't want to exercise daily or control my cravings. I wanted what I wanted, and God used those desires to build my character along the way, and draw me closer to Him in the process.

Call me old school (you wouldn't be the first) but I don't want an iPod faith. Just because it's more convenient or faster doesn't mean it's the best way. Sometimes being open to what you weren't expecting is the best way to find what you were looking for all along.

Dear Lord, help me to remember when You ask me to wait it is for my best. Help me to trust in the process You're taking me through. And help me remember that You are on the other side of every trial, waiting with a new perspective, a new vision, a new hope. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
Visit Marybeth’s blog

The Mailbox by Marybeth Whalen

Teach this lesson to your kids with Van Walton’s From the Pound to the Palace

Share this lesson with your teens with Alex and Brett Harris’ Do the Hard Thing

Re-visit this lesson yourself with Susanne Scheppmann’s Birds in My Mustard Tree: How to Grow Your Faith

Reflections:
What are some things God has required you to go through that you would have chosen to skip if you could? Are you grateful for them now?

Power Verses:
Psalm 31:3, "Since you are my rock and my fortress, for the sake of your name lead and guide me." (NIV)

Psalm 143:8, "Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul." (NIV)

© 2010 by Marybeth Whalen. All rights reserved.

Labels: Balance, God's Perspective, Overcoming Fear, Spiritual Growth, Time with God, Trusting God, Waiting On God

Rachel Olsen

"If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him." James 1:5 (NIV)

Have you read the dramatic story of Daniel the Israelite becoming a key consultant to Babylon's king? Let me tell you about it - it's found in Daniel chapters 1-2.

Daniel was considered a wise guy—in fact, among the wisest in the ancient nations of his time. He'd been taken to Babylon by King Nebuchadnezzar's administrative assistant following Israel's loss to the Babylonians. He was forced to serve their king as an advisor. As part of what I call the "Babylonian Geek Squad"—a group of magicians, astrologers, and enchanters the king relied on to make decisions, solve problems and offer predictions.

Only these guys were not who anyone should seek wisdom from. They may have been smart, they may have had some pedigree or skills, but they lacked true wisdom. Can you imagine Daniel lumped in with the pagan wizards and fortune tellers?

Daniel did his best to keep himself pure before his God under these circumstances. The Bible says because he did, God gave him "an unusual aptitude for learning the literature and science of the times. And God gave Daniel special ability in understanding the meanings of visions and dreams" (Dan. 1:17). The Bible also says that in all matters requiring wisdom and judgment, the king found Daniel's advice to be "ten times better than that of all the magicians and enchanters in his entire kingdom" (v. 20).

One night the king had a nightmare. When none of the astrologers, magicians, or enchanters could interpret his dream, he sent an angry decree for all his royal advisors to be killed. When Daniel learned of this he asked God for wisdom to interpret the dream. God granted it, sparing Daniel's life and the rest of the Babylonian Geek Squad.

Read carefully Daniel's response to God's provision:

Praise the name of God forever and ever, for he alone has all wisdom and power. He determines the course of world events; he removes kings and sets others on the throne. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the scholars. He reveals deep and mysterious things and knows what lies hidden in darkness, though he himself is surrounded by light. I thank and praise you, God of my ancestors, for you have given me wisdom and strength. (Dan. 2:20–23)

After Daniel explained the dream—and the fact that both the dream and its interpretation were provided by Yahweh—King Nebuchadnezzar bowed before Daniel honoring him and his God. He lavished Daniel with gifts, promoted him to head of his advisors and made him a ruler over the providence of Babylon.

Daniel staked his life and security on his access to God's wisdom. And it secured him.

Mind if I ask what you tend to stake your security on?

Where do you get your wisdom from? On a daily or hourly basis, what guides your decisions?

Between the tissue-thin pages of your Bible, you too have access to the wisdom and power of God. Just like Daniel. I wonder, are we using it? Do we crack it open beyond Sunday morning or Wednesday night Bible class?

Have you called on God for wisdom today?

The wisdom in the Bible can guide, transform and secure us. Whether your Bible is a $20 paperback or an $80 leather-bound gold-embossed edition, it is the most valuable thing you own. Hands-down!

And there is nothing geeky about treating it as such. So open your Bible and seek out God's wisdom for today.

Dear Lord, I thank You for access to Your wisdom and power. I thank You for the wisdom the Bible shows and for the power in Your son's name. Incline my heart to Your Word and make me wise in Your eyes. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
Do You Know Him?

To learn how you can win a free copy of Rachel’s book It’s No Secret today, visit her blog at www.RachelOlsen.com

We invite you to grow in biblical wisdom with one of God’s girls, check out It's No Secret: Revealing Divine Truths Every Woman Should Know by Rachel Olsen. It includes end-of-chapter Bible studies you can do alone or with a friend.

Application Steps:
Commit to regular reading of the Word of God. Make a plan today for when and where you will read it tomorrow.

Do you feel you need some guidance digging into the Word? Get a copy of Rachel's new book It's No Secret, or follow a Bible reading plan—you can find them online.

Reflections:
What do I tend to think my security is tied to?

Do I treat my Bible as the most valuable thing I own?

Realize that Daniel was placed into a situation that seemed like it would be the farthest thing from God's will. But look how God used him there! What does this say about your current circumstances?

Power Verses:
Proverbs 8:10, "Choose my instruction rather than silver, and knowledge rather than pure gold. For wisdom is far more valuable than rubies. Nothing you desire can compare with it." (NLT)
　　
© 2010 by Rachel Olsen. All rights reserved.

Labels: Confidence, God's Perspective, Identity in Christ, Overcoming, Perseverance, Prayer, Spiritual Growth, Time with God, Trusting God, Walking in Faith

Wendy Pope

"Open my eyes to see the wonderful truths in your instruction." Psalm 119:18 (NLT)

A good Christian should read the Bible.
A good Christian should love the Bible.
A good Christian should understand the Bible.
A good Christian should live the truths of the Bible.

These statements shaped my life and summed up my thoughts about God's Word eleven years ago. In my mind I was not a "good" Christian because none of these statements were true of me. Have you ever made such assumptions about yourself and your thoughts toward the Bible? Do you feel like you can't tell anyone for fear of being judged?

I felt the same way. I truly believed that since I had not attended, nor had any aspirations of ever attending seminary, I was automatically disqualified from understanding the Bible. Therefore, if I did not understand the Bible how could I discover its truths and apply them to my life?

I did not love the Bible. I carried it with me to church. I believed it to be the inerrant and infallible words of God. I also opened the Bible to look up verses so I could fill in the blanks for my Bible studies. However, there was not a desire on my part to know the Bible better. How could I attend church for 30 years, call myself a Christian, and not have a desire to read and know the Bible? What was wrong with me?

All this changed in 2006 when I decided I was going be a "good" Christian and read the entire Bible. With all the self-determination I could muster, I set out to spend the year reading the Bible. I was going to make myself love and understand God's Word so I could be a "good" Christian. What I learned in the first year of reading the Bible was amazing and life-changing. All my wrong assumptions were made right through the light and love of God and His Word.

Did I learn spiritual truths that I could apply to my life? Yes. Did I understand everything I read? No. I learned God's Word is full of rich life application written to produce God's best in my life, however I should not pressure myself to understand it all in one reading. God desires for me to continue to read His Word so He can reveal to me its meaning when He is ready to teach me.

My mind wanted my heart to love God's Word. So, did I fall deeply in love with God's Word the first time I read it? Not right away. If that shocks you, imagine how I felt. The question is better asked in this way: Did I fall deeply in love with wanting to know God and His Word more intimately? The answer is a resounding yes. The love for His Word has developed and deepened over the time that I have invested in reading and studying it.

Of all the lessons I learned the first year I read through the Bible, I suppose the most valuable was I do not want to be a "good" Christian. Gasp. No, I did not nor do I want to be a "good" Christian. Gasp again. The word good is defined as satisfactory in quality, quantity, or degree.

Never do I want to be satisfied with the quality and quantity of my life as Christian. Never do I want to be a "good" student of God's Word, one who is a satisfied with her quality and quantity of time in it. I have made a commitment to learn, live, and love God's Word by reading year after year until Jesus comes.

Would you like to join me in 2011?

Dear Lord, thank You for leaving Your Word for us to learn, live, and love. It is our guiding light in our dark world. Will You help to make a commitment to read Your Word daily? I don't want to be a "good" Christian. I want to be a Christian who is never satisfied in my relationship with You and my knowledge of Your powerful, life-changing Word. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
Do You Know Him?

The One Year Chronological Bible

Visit Wendy’s blog to find out how to be part of the amazing online study of The One Year Chronological Bible. Read testimonials of those who have been involved in this study for 2 years. And get to know Wendy face-to-face as you listen to her talk about how this specific Bible has changed her life and her love for God’s Word.

Out of the Mouths of Babes by Wendy Pope

Application Steps:
Pray about making the commitment to read though the Bible in a year. After God confirms your prayer, purchase The One Year Chronological Bible from Proverbs 31 Ministries.

Read Psalm 119.

Reflections:
What are my fears about reading through the Bible?

Am I satisfied with the quantity and quality of time with the Lord?

Power Verses:
Psalm 119:32, "I will pursue your commands for you expand my understanding." (NLT)

Psalm 119:37, "Turn my eyes from worthless things, and give me life through your Word." (NLT)

Psalm 119:105, "Your Word is a lamp to guide me and light for my path." (NLT)

© 2010 by Wendy Pope. All rights reserved.

Labels: God's Perspective, Identity in Christ, Overcoming, Spiritual Growth, Time with God, Trusting God, Walking in Faith

Marybeth Whalen

"Then David continued, 'Be strong and courageous and do the work. Don't be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord God, my God, is with you. He will not fail you or forsake you. He will see to it that all the work related to the temple of the Lord is finished correctly.'" I Chronicles 28:20 (NLT)

I pushed the computer aside, convinced that the task I was attempting was impossible. I couldn't fathom completing the work I had ahead of me and I needed a mental break. Picking up a Christian book I was reading, I carried it upstairs to the treadmill, deciding to pound out my frustration and read at the same time. I had no idea I was about to have my own personal revival.

Several pages into the book I read today's verse. Have you ever had a verse jump off the page at you? Well, this one did. I thought back to my frustration with the work I was facing earlier and felt God speak to me through this verse. Quit telling me how impossible the task is and just do the work, He said. Don't forget I will show up each time. Not so you can boast about your abilities, but so you can boast in Me.

After my time on the treadmill, I raced downstairs to email a friend of mine who I had complained to earlier that day. I told her how the verse had ministered to me, and how I was going to simply do the work. She wrote back that she had been praying for God to speak to me about the task that was overwhelming me. I had a new motto as I recommitted to the task at hand: Do the work. Whenever I started to get discouraged or overwhelmed by the hugeness of the task, I reminded myself: Do the work—three little words that got me through one of the biggest challenges of my life. Perhaps you need to hear those three little words today.

Are you facing a challenge in your job? Do the work.

Does your marriage need to be rebuilt? Do the work.

Are you worried about your ability to be a good mother? Do the work.

Are you dealing with a personal hardship that just seems too big to overcome? Do the work.

Are you struggling with debt and financial issues? Do the work.

Do you want to eat healthier, commit to regular exercise or lose weight? Do the work.

Is there a dream that God has planted in your heart that seems too big for you? Do the work.

Make no mistake: sometimes the work will be hard. Note that our verse today didn't say "Lay around and hope things get better." The challenge we face is not in focusing on how hard the work is, but in seeking the God who has promised to show up as we work. We offer our best efforts and trust that He will multiply them. We will see Him supply the words, the resources, the energy, the time, the patience, the grace we need. But first we must do the work. Just like the priests had to first step into the water before the Jordan could part in Joshua 3:15-16, so we must begin working before we can see the solution appear.

What work do you need to start doing—or keep doing—no matter how discouraged or disheartened you feel? I pray that you will see Him at work on your behalf today as you do the work He has called you to do. Do the work, and He will be with you.

Dear Lord, help me to look to You and not to the hugeness of the work I have ahead of me. Help me not to be afraid or discouraged. I thank You for Your promise that You are with me and that You will not fail me or forsake me. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
Need a compelling reason to buy yourself a new book this fall? Or want to get an early jump on Christmas shopping? For the rest of this week only, we are offering a 31% discount on all of our resources! Click here to visit our P31 online store and save big on titles you’ve been wanting to read!

The Mailbox by Marybeth Whalen

Learning to Live Financially Free by Marybeth and Curt Whalen

The Complete Guide to Getting & Staying Organized by Karen Ehman

Application Steps:
Spend time journaling about a challenge you are facing in your life. What work can you do today towards that challenge?

Reflections:
What discouragement or fear keeps you from doing the work? How can you avoid those crippling feelings?

Power Verses:
Haggai 2:4, "But now be strong O Zerubbabel, declares the Lord. Be strong, O Joshua, son of Jehozadak, the high priest. Be strong, all you people of the land, declares the Lord, and work. For I am with you, declares the Lord almighty." (NIV)

Ephesians 6:10, "Finally, be strong in the LORD and in his mighty power." (NIV)

© 2010 by Marybeth Whalen. All rights reserved.

Labels: Balance, Overcoming, Perseverance, Time with God, Trusting God, Waiting On God

Rachel Olsen

"If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. If we claim we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and his word has no place in our lives." 1 John 1:9-10 (NIV)

I remember the day I realized I have Adam's Disease. It took me awhile to notice—in fact, most people with this debilitating condition don't ever recognize it. But the best doctor I know pointed out its symptoms, and though I hated to admit it, I've frequently displayed them.

Could it possibly affect you as well?

Adam's Disease is an insidious condition that interferes with the patient's ability to grow. It does this by preventing the patient from admitting and taking responsibility for their sin. Take a look at the first confirmed case:

Then the man and his wife heard the sound of the LORD God as he was walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and they hid from the LORD God among the trees of the garden. But the LORD God called to the man, "Where are you?"

He answered, "I heard you in the garden, and I was afraid because I was naked; so I hid."

And he said, "Who told you that you were naked? Have you eaten from the tree that I commanded you not to eat from?"

The man said, "The woman you put here with me—she gave me some fruit from the tree, and I ate it." (Genesis 3:8-12, NIV)

What we have here is a textbook case of acknowledgement-avoidance and blame-shifting. Classic traits of Adam's Disease.

Adam hid because he sinned. He did the very thing God personally commanded him not to, and he knew it. He ate the fruit. He held it to his mouth, bit in, chewed, felt the juice dripping from his chin—and then his eyes were opened. Opened to what he had done, and opened to how miserable it feels to disconnect from God.

Trying to change the subject and avoid talking about his sin, Adam said he was hiding because he was naked. Nakedness … a lesser offense. A problem, not a sin. A state that wasn't really his fault. After all, he didn't make himself naked. God did.

And that's where the second most prominent feature of Adam's Disease kicks in: blame-shifting. After trying to minimize the severity of their sin, the patient enters a frenzied state of denial and begins casting blame. He searches for a scapegoat. God will do; other people work even better, particularly those who are not without sin either. So the patient shfits attention away from themself by leveling accusations (no matter how old) on others.

If those of us suffering from Adam's Disease are skilled orators or experienced arguers, these tactics often work for us. The problem is, we walk away from the confrontation feeling victorious rather than convicted. We actually talk ourselves into feeling self-righteous after sinning.

However, without conviction there is no repentance. Without repentance, there is no grace to change. Without change, there is no growth. Only future sins to be committed, glossed over, denied and forgotten. And in the process we don't realize how miserable we truly are – how sick our souls become.

The doctor that pointed all this out to me, the Great Physician, said He could heal me of this disease if I would come to Him with a humble heart, confess and be cleansed. He showed me that confessing my sin rather than concealing it would set me free. And He showed me it will not hurt to say, "I'm sorry."

For those outside the faith, Adam's Disease is fatal. For followers of Christ, it is completely curable. So, could it be you? Could you suffer with this tendency too? My best girlfriend advice - make an appointment with your Great Physician for a check-up today.

Dear Lord, today I am willing to say that I am a sinner in so many ways. And I don't like to admit responsibility for my poor choices and harmful actions. Please cleanse me of all unrighteousness and empower me to live humbly in Your grace. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
If this devotion struck a chord with you, you’ll want to read chapter 10 – “Crave a Clear Conscious More than Clear Skin” – in Rachel’s new book It's No Secret: Revealing Divine Truths Every Woman Should Know

We were made to live free from Adam’s Disease! Visit Rachel’s blog today to talk about it. She is also giving away a copy of her book It's No Secret: Revealing Divine Truths Every Woman Should Know.

Application Steps:
Quiet yourself in prayer and ask the Holy Spirit to search your heart and show you any sin problems you need to confess. Then enjoy the spiritual vitality that you'll experience afterwards!
Reflections:
How willing am I to admit my mistakes? To God? To my boss? To my spouse? To my friends?

Do I shift blame as a knee-jerk reaction?

Do I resist saying, "I'm sorry"?

Power Verses:
James 4:6b, "God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble." (NIV)

© 2010 by Rachel Olsen. All rights reserved.

Labels: Balance, Confidence, God's Perspective, Identity in Christ, Overcoming, Purity, Spiritual Growth, Time with God, Trusting God, Walking in Faith

Lysa TerKeurst

"’For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’" Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)

Five years ago I sat beside my youngest sister and listened as she boldly rejected my views of God. She’s always been a free spirit, much too non-conventional for traditional religion.

"Good thing I’m not into religion," I gently replied.

She twisted her face as if half expecting a lightening bolt to strike us both. "But you ARE religious."

I laid my head against the back of the lounge chair, closed my eyes to the sun now washing over me and simply replied, "Nope."

Deciding to let my statement just sit for a while, I decided not to clarify unless she asked. And ask she did.

That’s when I explained that I follow God not a list of rules. I am passionate about getting into the Bible - God’s teachings - and letting the Bible get into me. I no longer evaluate life based on my feelings. Instead, I let my feelings and experiences be evaluated in light of God’s Word.

I have watched God chase me around with rich evidence of His presence and invitations to trade apathy for active faith. But I had to make the choice to see God. Hear God. Know God. And follow hard after God.

Then I took my sister’s hand and told her I’d be praying for God to mess with her in ways too bold for her to deny.

Fast forward over five years later. My sister walks into one of her professor’s office and sees one of my books on her bookshelf. I don’t think she really believed anyone actually read my books. But there it was. And it messed with her.

She later went home and poked around my blog a bit where she found a clip of my testimony. Again, it messed with her. One verse in particular messed with her so much that she let the possibility that God exists slip into her heart.

A few days later she went and had Jeremiah 29:11 tattooed on the back of her neck. And she started calling wanting to talk to me. About life. About tattoos. And about God.

Last Thursday, I stood in the middle of the Atlanta airport praying for this precious girl who had called asking for those prayers. She had called. She had asked. And that’s the miracle of our Jesus. He is the God of the impossible.

I wonder what might happen if we dared to ask God for the impossible just a little more often. I’m up for it? Are you?

Dear Lord, use me today to reach the heart of one. I want to trade any apathy I may have today for active faith. Lead me, and I will follow. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
Visit Lysa’s blog for a chance to win a book and video package called “Sun Stand Still” by Pastor Steven Furtick. These great resources address how to pray for those things that seem so impossible. Plus, you can leave your prayer requests and our prayer team will pray for you!

Lysa will be speaking in over 40 cities this year and would love to meet you! To check for a city near you, click here.

Learn how to study the Bible in a fun and relevant way on your own by reading Becoming More Than a Good Bible Study Girl by Lysa TerKeurst


Application Steps:
Read the book of John over the next several days. Let the truths of Jesus’ life resonate in your mind and soul. As you read and ponder each verse daily, let your feelings and experiences be evaluated in the light of God’s Word.

Reflections:
Have you made the choice to see God recently? Hear Him? Take the time to know Him? And follow hard after Him?

How can you, right where you are, choose to see the rich evidences of God? How can you show this to someone else who needs to hear it?

Have you asked God for the impossible lately?

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

Colossians 1:9, "For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding." (NIV)

© 2010 by Lysa TerKeurst. All rights reserved.

Labels: Balance, God's Perspective, Overcoming, Time with God, Trusting God, Walking in Faith

Beth Webb Hart, She Reads Featured Author

"You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous man, though for a good man someone might possibly dare to die. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." Romans 5: 6-7 (NIV)

I came face to face with grace in the wee hours of a summer night at the tender age of eighteen. I had just returned home from my first year of college, and after making a series of bad and destructive decisions, I could barely stand to be in my own skin. My mother, a new Christian, sensed my despair, and she sat me down late one night when the house was quiet and insisted that I tell her what was wrong.

Weary and depressed, I told her everything – all of my wrong-doings and the darkness which was consuming my heart as a result. She cried as any mother would. And I cried because I was ashamed and sorry, and I knew there was nothing I could do to turn back the clock and make things right. When the last tissue was frayed to bits, I looked up expecting her to write me off for good. It was certainly what I deserved. However, when our eyes met, her face softened, and she straightened up and said, "Jesus loves you, and He forgives you." Then she walked across the room, embraced me and added, "And so do I."

Grace. There it was. In an instant I felt the full weight of the truth proclaimed on the church marquee signs along the southern back roads of my childhood: "Jesus Saves," "Washed in the blood," and "There is a Redeemer." Jesus had sacrificed His life, not while I (or the rest of mankind) were well-behaved girls and boys, but while we were downright bad ones. Imagine.
"Thank you," I prayed as I stepped into the light. I could almost feel the rewiring of my heart, the restoration of my soul and the redirection of my very life.

Now it has been more than twenty years since that summer night, and I sometimes I wonder if I extend grace more often than not to the people around me. Do I keep a list of grievances against those who have hurt me? Do I habitually tally the debts I'm owed in terms of my time, my money and my service? Do I give family, friends and even that stranger on the city street who zips into the parking place I've been waiting patiently for (with my blinker on, I might add) the benefit of the doubt? How I wish I could say the answer was yes.

In my new novel, Love, Charleston, three tight-knit cousins in their late thirties find themselves living lives far different than the ones they daydreamed about as young girls growing up together in downtown Charleston. Anne, a bell ringer at a historic church, has never found love while Lish, a successful doctor, is blind-sided by an illness just as her husband's affection begins to wane. Lastly there is Della, a struggling writer, who begins to doubt the simple scrape-by life she and her sculptor spouse have chosen. It takes a miracle of grace to provide a joyful ending for these three Charleston women, and the resolution does not come without a willingness to reach out and love each other in the midst of the tough times.

Here are the questions my characters (and I) continually ask ourselves: How can we put grace in its proper place? How can it form the foundation of our everyday actions? How can we keep it in our very bones so that we don't wind up like the unforgiving servant in Matthew 18:21-35 who throws a debtor into jail just moments after the merciful king has cancelled his debts and set him free?

Dear Lord, thank You for loving me while I was a sinner. Help me not to grow numb to Your sacrifice, and show me how to extend Your grace to others. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
Visit She Reads for a chance to win a beautiful St. Michael’s Gates necklace, the children’s book Of Mice and Bells, and copies of Beth’s new novel Love, Charleston.

Confessions of an Adulterous Christian Woman: Lies that Got Me there, Truths that Brought Me Back by Lyndell Hetrick Holtz

The Woman I Am Becoming by T. Suzanne Eller

For more encouragement, read our free resource, Love is Powerful.

Application Steps:
Think of the person in your life who could never pay you back for a nice lunch or dinner. Prepare a lovely meal and invite them over.

Think of someone who has hurt or insulted you over the last year. Do something kind for them.

Reflections:
Do you, in your heart of hearts, believe that your good works keep you in good standing with God? Why must you get rid of this notion in order to fully receive His love?

Look around. Whose life appears to be a mess? Also, whose life seems picture perfect by the world's standards? Could a little unmerited favor and love set both of these folks free?

Power Verses:
John 15:12, "My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you." (NIV)

Ephesians 4:32, "Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." (NIV)

Matthew 5:7, "Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy." (NIV)

© 2010 by Beth Webb Hart. All rights reserved.

Labels: God's Perspective, Overcoming, Spiritual Growth, Time with God, Trusting God, Walking in Faith