Missing the Forest for the Trees

Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writers: Lysa TerKeurst with Amanda Waldroop

Are you guilty of not seeing the forest for the trees? Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Sometimes I get so caught up in following the rules that I slip into the mode of looking at but not really seeing my children. I tend to focus so much on surface issues, catching every mistake they make, that I forget to look at the heart behind their actions.

Once my daughter wrote a paper using bad spelling and poor grammar. I got so caught up in the mechanics of her mistakes that I didn’t really read the message of her paper. She had written about wanting to go to Africa and work in an orphanage.

Yes, spelling and grammar are important, but in light of eternity what really matters is her heart. So, I’m trying to take time now see beyond the surface more often. Let me encourage you to capture a moment today where you really see someone else. Look beyond their mistakes to see their heart.
For more encouragement, visit proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

The Bathtub is Overflowing but I Feel Drained; by Lysa TerKeurst

“Be Your Child’s Greatest Cheerleader”, ETC Aug 2004

Goal or Desire?

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Amanda Waldrop with Renee Swope

What’s the difference between a goal and a desire? Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Author Donna Otto asks this challenging question in her book, Secrets to Getting More Done in Less Time.

She defines goals as things you or I alone, with God’s help, can make happen – like losing weight. She says that a desire, however, is something we want, but usually involves the cooperation of other people or circumstances to make happen. It’s easy to confuse the two. Often the goals we set really are desires and, if the other person involved fails us, we feel defeated.

She suggests that we break free from defeat by setting goals – things that we alone can accomplish. For example, if we desire healthy marriages, we can make it our goal to be good wives. We can rest in knowing we accomplished our goal and we let God fulfill our ultimate desire by working with our husband and our circumstances. For more encouragement in pursuing your goals and desires, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at Proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

Secrets to Getting More Done in Less Time by Donna Otto

“Purposeful-Living”, ETC Jan 2005, by Marie Ogram

A Parent’s Goal

Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writers: Lysa TerKeurst with Amanda Waldroop

As parents, our job isn’t simply to raise children but to raise God-loving adults. Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. In order to learn to love and respect God, our kids need to learn to love and respect us as parents. And, in order for this to happen, it’s sometimes necessary to discipline them for making poor choices.

Of course we want to extend grace to our kids because we recognize that we so desperately need it ourselves. But, we have to be careful to balance grace with discipline when it’s needed. For example, if my son breaks something, I’ll forgive him, but chances are he’ll have to pay to have it repaired or replaced.

One of the best things I’ve discovered about discipline is that it allows me to transfer the stress of poor choices back to the one who made them. It’s freeing for me as a mom and very memorable for the child. And, hopefully it helps him make wiser choices next time.

For more parenting ideas, visit proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

The Bathtub is Overflowing but I Feel Drained; by Lysa TerKeurst

Do As I Do, Free Devotion by Kristy Tolley

God’s Silence

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Amanda Waldrop with Renee Swope

Do you ever feel like God isn’t answering your prayers? Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Sometimes I pray and ask God for something and He seems silent.

Author Priscilla Shirer says that even though God is more than able to act, sometimes He demonstrates His power and strengthens us by His silence.

I’m sure there are many reasons for God to remain silent. Sometimes His timing is simply different than mine. Other times, I think He wants me to realize that I’m praying simply to get something from Him rather than to be close to Him. The hard part is when I’m doing my best to follow him and I expect Him to reward me with an immediate and clear answer. Often though, I discover that the solution isn’t found in His answer to my problem but in the time I’ve spent with Him trying to find the answer. If you’re walking in God’s ways but still can’t hear His voice, don’t lose heart – trust that He hears you and He’ll respond in His perfect timing. For more encouragement visit Proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

He Speaks to Me, by Priscilla Shirer

“Hearing God”, ETC Oct 2004, by Rachel Olsen

The Greatest Choice

Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writers: Lysa TerKeurst with Amanda Waldroop

When I’m having one of those days…you know the ones I’m talking about. A day where I feel like I stink at everything, there’s a Bible verse that really helps turn things around. Hi I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. “You didn’t choose me, but I chose you.”

Amazing isn’t it? God formed our hearts and knows us intimately. He knows the dark places, the secrets and the things we won’t tell anyone else - and He chose us anyway. Have you ever thought about God seeing those parts and loving you regardless?

This truth has freed me because I know God chose me in spite of all my flaws. There is nothing I can do that will make Him change His mind about me.

Spend some time thinking about this truth and then ask yourself these questions, “What’s my response to God choosing me?” And “What difference does this make in the way I feel about myself?” For more on this, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

The Bathtub is Overflowing but I Feel Drained; by Lysa TerKeurst

Born to Be, Free Devotion by Marybeth Whalen

Decorating on a Budget

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Amanda Waldrop with Renee Swope

I love to decorate…and re-decorate my home! But I don’t have an unlimited budget so I have to get creative with what I already have. Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. I recently read that the secret to affordable decorating is “creative seeing: learning to see new possibilities in your old stuff, beautiful uses for your ordinary stuff, and easy transformations for stuff you like but don’t know what to do with.”

To save money, I try to pick out accessories, and materials that are timeless and multi-functional. I’ve also discovered that I need to reduce junk by weeding through it. My trash may be someone else’s treasures. I also look in magazines for ways to use older things so I can creatively decorate my home with something I already have. I also try to recycle things that have multiple purposes like baskets and glassware and fabric.

For more ideas on how to design your home on a budget by reducing, reusing, and recycling, log on to Proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

Designing Your Home on a Budget by Emilie Barnes and Yoli Brogger

Money Lessons, Free Devotion by Sharon Glasgow

Keeping Your Head Up

Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writers: Lysa TerKeurst with Amanda Waldroop

It’s hard to keep your head up when the world’s gettin’ you down! Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. If you’re feeling a little run down today, you’re not alone. We’ve all been there. And, since I find myself in this spot often, I’ve realized things are a lot better for me and my family if I can take a little time to get refreshed and refocused. Here are some things that work for me:

I watch a funny show or talk with a friend who makes me laugh. Then I don’t take myself so seriously. I take a Bible break and dig into a special verse and try to unearth its hidden treasures.
Another thing I like to do is read a book that challenges me to think on a deeper level. Or, I head to my favorite bookstore, grab a cup of coffee and explore all the different books. And, finally, a good chick flick always does the trick. I laugh, cry, and run home to kiss my hubby.

For more ideas, log on to proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

The Bathtub is Overflowing but I Feel Drained; by Lysa TerKeurst

“Coming Out of the Dark”, ETC Feb 2004, by Mary Southerland

Don’t Fail to Plan

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writers: Amanda Waldrop and Renee Swope

I know the saying, “When you fail to plan, you plan to fail!” And, I don’t like to fail! But I’m also not crazy about planning! Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries.

Recently I was re-organizing our walk-in attic space and didn’t really have a plan. I just started pulling out boxes and old toys and was going to rearrange them along the way. I quickly realized the mountains of boxes in our hallway were going to block my progress. I didn’t have enough space to complete my task. I learned that if I want to get organized, I’ll need to do some planning first.

Organizing expert Donna Otto says that prior to organizing we “need to learn the skills of organization.” This includes making a list of materials we’ll need, allotting enough time and space to do the job, and enlisting the help of others before we begin. Once we have a plan in place - organizing can actually be fun! For more ideas to help you make the most of your busy life, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at Proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

Secrets to Getting More Done in Less Time, by Donna Otto

“Daily Planning Guide”, ETC Jan 2005, by Marie Ogram

A Little Goes A Long Way

Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writers: Lysa TerKeurst with Amanda Waldroop

How can I fit time with God into my busy life? Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. I ask myself that question a lot and I have a feeling that maybe you ask yourself the very same thing.

But you know I’ve found that spending time praying and reading the Bible shouldn’t be something on my to-do list to check off and forget about. I can live out daily adventures with God. I can always talk to Him and look to the Bible for direction. But one thing I know for sure no good comes out of me mentally beating myself up about this.

Many of us have believed at one time or another that if we don’t have hours to spend on our knees then we shouldn’t bother praying at all. But if we have just 5 minutes, we can give those 5 minutes to God. If we find a block of 30 minutes one day, we can give that to God. A little bit of time goes a long way! For more encouragement in your relationship with God, visit Proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:
The Bathtub is Overflowing but I Feel Drained, by Lysa TerKeurst

Encouragement for Today Free Email Devotions

“Margin”, ETC April 2005, by Rachel Olsen

Working Yourself Out of a Job

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writers: Jill Tracey

Are you working yourself out of your job as a mom? Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Recently my friend, Jill, started weaning her daughter Alyssa. It was hard for her to see this special time end but she was comforted by friends who said the bond with her daughter would continue. She also knew that this is just one of the first steps toward working herself out of a job as a mom.

Jill realized the day is coming when Alyssa will need to make her own way in the world and her job is to give her daughter the tools she’ll need. So, right now Alyssa’s learning to feed herself. Soon she’ll be solving math problems, making her own lunch, and her own decisions. And, one day, if Jill has done her job, Alyssa won’t be dependent on her help anymore. While this makes her a little sad, Jill told me it’s a privilege to help lead her child into adulthood. So, how do you feel about working yourself out of a job as a mom? For more encouragement visit Proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

The Mommy Manuel, by Barbara Curtis

Child Labor, Part 1, Free Devotion by Lysa Terkeurst

The Family Tool Kit

Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writers: Lysa TerKeurst with Amanda Waldroop

Here’s a great idea for a bumper sticker: “Choose Well, Live Well!” Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. My friend Michelle has made it her motherhood goal to not just celebrate her kid’s achievements, but to celebrate their good choices. She believes a child’s choices reflect their character.

When Michelle’s daughter learned to ride her bike, her dinner that evening was served on the Family Honor Plate; a plate that only goes to those who show good character. Her daughter knew that she was getting the honor plate not because she learned to ride her bike, but because she had an amazing attitude and didn’t give up. Even if even if she hadn’t learned to ride her bike, her choice to persevere would’ve prompted this reward. Michelle believes it’s not only her job, but her privilege to instill character in her children by rewarding choices, not performance. To learn more about strengthening your family relationships, log on to proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

The Bathtub is Overflowing but I Feel Drained,; by Lysa TerKeurst

Family Enrichment Toolkit Created by Michelle Weber

“Be Your Child’s Greatest Cheerleader”, ETC Aug 2004

Temper Tantrums

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writers: Jill Tracey and Renee Swope

Have you ever felt like throwing a temper tantrum? Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. When my son was a toddler he developed the habit of throwing himself on the floor when things didn’t go his way. It just about drove me crazy! My husband and I tried to be patient and teach him ways to tell us what was wrong. In time he learned, but initially his natural instinct was to start fussing until he got his way.

I’m embarrassed to admit it, but there’re times when things aren’t going my way that I throw my own version of a temper tantrum. Now, I don’t lie on the floor and kick my feet, but it does come out in the way I talk to my husband or kids in a harsh tone, or when I hurry through the house in rushed chaos. Sometimes I wonder what God must think of my own little temper tantrums. I am so glad He’s patient and always willing to teach me how to ask for what I need. How about you? If you’d like help in turning to God for your needs, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

Breathe, by Keri Wyatt Kent

“Anger Management”, ETC March 2004, by Rachel Olsen

Rejoice With Her

Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writers: Lysa TerKeurst with Amanda Waldroop

Isn’t it hard to celebrate with a friend when she’s getting something YOU really want? Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Whether you’d really like to get married and your roommate just got engaged, or you’re longing to be a mom and your best friend just told you she’s pregnant, it can be difficult to be happy for other who are experiencing the very things you’ve hoped and prayed for.
It’s no wonder that the Bible has to tell us to “rejoice with those who rejoice”.

In her book Small Acts of Grace, Alice Gray says, “Whenever I’ve made the effort to look beyond my own desires and cheer for another, I have almost always received the gift of encouragement for myself as well.” So, even if it takes everything in us, let’s try rejoicing with those who have a reason to celebrate – even when we don’t. Who knows, maybe it will make our happiest moments that much sweeter.

For more encouragement, log on to proverbs31.org.


Related Resources:

Small Acts of Grace by Alice Gray

Friendship: The Love Training Ground, Free Devotion by Glynnis Whitwer

Balancing Priorities

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writers: Jill Tracey and Renee Swope

The PTA wants you to be President, your church needs help in the nursery, and your boss wants you to work more hours. Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Sometimes it seems like everything and everyone wants to be a priority. But, if we put everything on the front burner, the stove’s gonna tip over!

So, how do we decide what should come first in our lives? The Bible describes a woman who was great at keeping her priorities straight. She’s best known as the Proverbs 31 woman. Now, I know, her long list of accomplishments can be very intimidating. But, when I studied her life I discovered that she wasn’t praised for all she did each day, but for who she loved along the way. She put God first, her husband second, her children third, and her home career followed. When these were taken care of, she reached out to her community, sharing with those in need. Her life has helped me determine my priorities each day. If you’d like encouragement in balancing your busy life, visit Proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

A Woman’s Secret to a Balanced Life, by Lysa TerKeurst and Sharon Jaynes

“Purposeful-Living”, ETC Jan 2005, by Marie Ogram

“Margin”, ETC April 2005, by Rachel Olsen

Rude or Respectful?

Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writers: Lysa TerKeurst with Amanda Waldroop

There is nothing that embarrasses me more than if one of my kids acts rude or disrespectful. Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Respect is really important in our family. One thing my husband and I want our children to see that their actions are not just a reflection on them but our whole family as well. We’ve found that respect is something that must be taught with great consistency. When asked a question we expect them to respond with real words not grunts or groans under their breath. We’ve also shown them how to answer the phone politely, and give a nice firm handshake when being introduced to others. Now, trust me this is a process and our kids are not perfect so, we’ve also clearly explained the consequences of disobedience. And the consequences are memorable enough that the next time respect seems like a more appealing choice. For more ideas on developing Godly character in your kids, visit Proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

The Bathtub is Overflowing but I Feel Drained; by Lysa TerKeurst

“10 Ways to Keep the Lines of Communication Open With Your Kids”, ETC Aug 2004

God is in the Details

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writers: Jill Tracey and Renee Swope

Sometimes I wish I could hire someone to help manage all the details in my life! Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Recently I felt overwhelmed with everything I needed to take care of that day. Then I thought about the story of Noah and the Ark and remembered how God helped Noah with the enormous amount of detail involved in his building project. First, God gave Noah the dimensions for the Ark because He knew exactly how much room would be needed for Noah, his family, and all the animals that would be on board. God knew the flood was coming and they’d be in the Ark for nearly two years so He told Noah how much food and supplies he’d need to keep everyone healthy.

So why do I have trouble trusting God with the details in my life? Next time I feel overwhelmed, I’m going to put my projects and responsibilities in the hands of the One who can take care of them much better than I can! For more encouragement in trusting God with the details in your life, visit proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

Living Life on Purpose, by Lysa TerKeurst

Trust Me, Free Devotion by Wendy Pope

Is it Possible to See God?

Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writers: Lysa TerKeurst with Amanda Waldroop

Is it possible to see God? Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Take a moment and think about all the things your eyes have focused on today. If you’re driving, hopefully they’re focused on the road in front of you. Or perhaps you’ve had to concentrate your vision on the safety of your children. Maybe your eyes have obsessed over the disastrous state of your home. Well, while your physical eyes have had things they’ve had to concentrate on, what have your spiritual eyes been looking at?

Our spiritual eyes are the eyes of our heart. And, we can keep them focused on God even when our physical eyes have to look in twenty different directions all at once! God knows our limits, our desires, and our hearts. We can trust Him as we focus the eyes of our heart in His direction, and allow Him to redefine the way we view all the stuff our physical eyes have to look after every day!

For help in learning to trust God, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

The Bathtub is Overflowing but I Feel Drained; by Lysa TerKeurst

Fixing My Eyes, Free Devotion by Amanda Waldrop

God is a Parent

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing writers: Melanie Chitwood and Renee Swope

Is being a good parent one of your top priorities? Do your kids feel loved by the hugs, snuggles and kisses you shower on them? Hi, I’m Renee Swope with Proverbs 31 Ministries. As much as I love motherhood, I’m the first to admit that being a mom, like anything else, can be the best of times or the worst of times. When your little boy spontaneously hugs you and says you’re beautiful, you feel like being a mother is the greatest job ever. But when your teenager daughter has a bad attitude and acts ungrateful, you might wonder why you’re trying so hard.

It helps to remember that God is a parent, too. Throughout the Bible He is called our Father. The Bible says He sees everything; He knows what we need before we ask Him and provides for our daily needs. What comforting reassurances from our heavenly Father, as we try to be the best parents we can be here on earth.

For more encouragement, visit proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

He Speaks to Me, by Priscilla Shirer

A Different Daddy, Free Devotion by Susanne Scheppman

God is Watching

Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writers: Lysa TerKeurst with Amanda Waldroop

We’ve all had that feeling that someone’s watching us. Well, someone is! Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. The Bible says that God’s eyes are “everywhere, keeping watch.” But, it’s not like some scary scene out of a suspense novel. God watching us is actually a positive thing!

I know, sometimes I wish God didn’t see everything because sometimes I’m embarrassed by my harsh words or immature behavior. But, the Bible also says His eyes are on those that love him and His ears listen to their prayers. So, God’s ability to see and know everything can be an awesome benefit to our lives. I love knowing that He’s watching over my family. And, I can rest in knowing that He’s aware of everything that goes on around me. He isn’t a disconnected, unfeeling God. He’s an essential part of my life each and every day. If you’d like to know more about experiencing God’s involvement in your life today log on to proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

The Bathtub is Overflowing but I Feel Drained, by Lysa TerKeurst

The God Who Sees, Free Devotion by Wendy Pope

Home Sweet Home

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing writers: Melanie Chitwood and Renee Swope

Would your family describe the temperature of your home as cold or warm and loving? Hi, I’m Renee Swope with Proverbs 31 Ministries.

If you’re like most women one of your many jobs is taking care of your home. The thought of that used to make me think of laundry that never ends and a kitchen that never stays clean. But then I realized my focus doesn’t need to be on my housekeeping but on my heart.

My heart serves as a thermostat that sets the temperature for the rest of my home. I can establish a climate that’s peaceful or chaotic, loving or cold. Here are some ways I try to create a welcoming atmosphere. I try to smile a lot and give lots of hugs. I watch my tone of voice and light candles to create a warm and cozy feeling. And most importantly, I try to spend time with God each day. When I do, He gives me His perspective and His presence, which is the most effective climate control in my home. For more ideas, visit proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

The Mommy Manual, by Barbara Curtis

What a Husband Needs from His Wife, by Melanie Chitwood

“Connection Rituals”, ETC April 2004 , by Rachel Olsen

The Ever-Present Sun

Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writers: Lysa TerKeurst with Amanda Waldroop

On a recent flight, God reminded me that He’s always there even when I can’t see Him. Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. When my plane took off the sky was gray and the day was cold and dreary. But, as the plane broke through the clouds, I was astounded to see that the sun hadn’t gone anywhere, it was bright, warm and gleaming for miles.

The people on the ground didn’t have the same perspective. All they could see was a bleak, sunless sky. But, if they could have risen above the clouds like I did they could have experienced the same glorious sunshine. Isn’t that how it is in our relationship with God sometimes? The clouds of our circumstances can seem to roll in and block Him out of our lives. But, just like the sun, God hasn’t gone anywhere. Maybe we just need His help to break through those clouds and bask in the light of His love.

For more encouragement, visit proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

The Bathtub is Overflowing but I Feel Drained; by Lysa TerKeurst

A Sunny Perspective Devotion by Lysa TerKeurst

Blinded by the Light

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writers: Jill Tracey and Renee Swope

Ever notice how a bright light can be both beautiful and blinding? Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. I was driving to work the other morning and enjoying the beautiful sunshine peeking over the roofs of the homes in my neighborhood. The trees were glowing in its light and everything looked clean and new. Then the beams of the beautiful sunshine I’d just been admiring bounced off some windows and right into my eyes - making it hard for me to drive. Funny how the brilliant light I’d thought was so pretty became a harsh glare.

Jesus called Himself the Light of the world. Like the sun, He makes things clean and new. But, when His truth shines on an area of my life that needs to be worked on, His light can seem harsh and offensive. I’m so glad Jesus’ Light is never intended to blind us but to guide us each step of the way! To learn more about following Jesus, the Light of the world, log on to proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

He Speaks to Me, by Priscilla Shirer

The Morning Star Rises, Free Devotion by Luann Prater