God Dances Over Us!

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Jill Tracey

Have you ever watched your kids while they were sleeping? Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. When my son started sleeping through the night, I actually missed him so I’d sneak into his room just to look at him for a while. I would feel overwhelmed with love and my heart filled with joy as I watched my son sleeping. You know, God must feel something similar for His children. The Bible says He dances and sings over us! What a great reminder for those days when nothing’s going right; when I feel like the whole worlds against me and nobody understands what I’m going through. I hope the next time I have one of those days I’ll remember the love I felt watching my child sleeping and remember there’s a God who loves me even more than that! There’s a God who sings and dances because of me! If you could use more daily reminders of how much God loves you, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

“The Goodness of God”, by Susanne Scheppmann, July 31, 2006 Devotion

“The Love of A Father”, by Micca Monda Campbell, February 7, 2006, Devotion

No More Pity Parties!

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

Are you guilty of throwing too many PITY parties? Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Recently I decided I was worn out from entertaining life’s frustrations, and it was time to invite a new guest – praise! When we get distracted by all that’s wrong in our lives, we start to take for granted all that’s good. Everything that’s good in our lives comes from God, and we need to thank Him for them. Start by listing some good things in different areas of your life like your relationship with God, your marriage, your kids, your home, your friends and so on. Spend some time praising God by thanking Him for each good thing. If you can’t find the good in something, ask God to show you even the smallest things you can be thankful for. Make it a habit to look at your list and update it often. Use it as a starting place to celebrate our God who is so very good! For more positive ideas, log on to proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

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

“Picture Perfect” by Lysa TerKeurst – February 23, 2006 Devotion

“An Attitude of Gratitude” by Micca Campbell – November 2004 ETC

Love the Ones You're With

Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

When you're with the ones you love, do you love the ones you're with? Hi, I'm Renee Swope with Proverbs 31 Ministries. There’re times when I'm with my family but my mind is somewhere else, getting things done! Recently I was watching a movie with my family. It looked like we were spending quality time together. I was there physically, but, I was returning phone calls and emails mentally. I looked at the clock to see how many hours before bedtime, when I could tackle my to-do list, and noticed the silhouette of my son’s face. I was struck by how grown up he looked! How quickly ten years have passed! It made me think, it won't be long before he's counting down the hours until I go to bed, so she can get on the phone with his friends. That's when I recognized the gift of being with the ones I love and loving the ones I'm with, while they're still with me! For more ideas on making the most of motherhood, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at Proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

“Love the Ones you’re With” by Renee Swope, August 11, 2005 Devotion

Mining for Gold in the Heart of Your Child (Chart and CD) by Renee Swope

The Bathtub is Overflowing but I Feel Drained by Lysa TerKeurst

Family Prayer Time

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

Establishing a regular family prayer time can have an incredible impact on your marriage, your kids, your church, and your world! Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. The Bible says, “Where two or three come together in my name, there I am with them.” God promises to hear and answer our prayers when we get together with others to spend some time talking with Him. What better way to do this than in your own home with a regular family prayer time? You can get started by praying with your spouse about issues in your marriage. Then, bring the kids on board by discussing and praying for things going on in their lives. You might even want to learn about and pray for different countries and the people who live there. Family prayer time is a great way to strengthen the bonds of love both inside and outside your home. If you’d like more ideas on prayer with your family, visit www.proverbs31.org

Related Resources:

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

“Persevering in Prayer” By Cheri Fuller - January 2006 ETC Corner

“Giving Jesus Our Best” by Glynnis Whitwer – December 23, 2005 Devotion

The Perfect Gift for a Friend

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

Do you need a gift for a friend that won’t cost much? Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. My friend, Danielle, told me how a friend of hers had given her a great gift! She invited Danielle to her house even though she didn’t have time to clean it. This woman takes great pride in keeping an immaculate home so Danielle was honored that she was allowed to see what her friend thought was a total mess. Danielle saw her friend’s imperfections – and it gave her permission to be transparent with her own shortcomings. Isn’t that what true friendship is about–letting our guards down and getting real with each other – whether we have a messy house or even a messy heart. So, next time you need a gift for a friend - don’t spend a dime, simply invite her into your home and your life when it’s not all put together – that just might be the best gift you could give her! For more ideas on being a good friend, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at www.proverbs31.ortg.

Related Resources:

“Friendship: The Love Training Ground” by Glynnis Whitwer, March 10, 2006 Devotion

“Why Not Her?” by Glynnis Whitwer, August 29, 2005 Devotion

Traveling Together by Carla Worley

I Love Smelly Shoes!

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

Have you ever thanked God for smelly shoes? Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Now, smelly shoes may not make you feel thankful at first, but maybe they will when you think about God watching over the little sweaty feet that fill them. The Bible says, “He set my feet upon a rock and made my footsteps firm.” God cares about where our feet take us, and He wants us to honor Him with our steps.

We use our feet to get us where we need to go. They take us wherever we point them— good, bad, right or wrong. The next time you trip over a pair of stray shoes lying around the house, instead of getting frustrated, let it remind you to pray for the feet that go in them. Where are those feet taking your loved ones? Are they making good choices with each step? Are they honoring God with their wherever they go? Ask God to direct each and every footstep. For more ways to pray for your family, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

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

“Love Initiates” by Glynnis Whitwer – February 4, 2005 Devotion

“Children Are A Blessing” by Tracie Miles – May 11, 2006 Devotion

When God Says No!

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Sharon Hodde

“Why is God punishing me!?” Hi, I'm Renee Swope with Proverbs 31 Ministries. Sometimes, when tough things happen or I simply don’t get the things I want, it’s easy to think God’s punishing for me something I did wrong. But the Bible says that God uses these times to help us grow. Think about how parents teach their child. They don’t let her raid the cookie jar before dinner, and they make her eat vegetables she doesn't like. They don’t do these things because she needs to be punished. They do it because they love her. Teaching her good habits now will help her make good decisions later. In the same way, God lets us go through hard times, or says “no” to something we ask Him for - because He loves us. The adversity can make our trust in Him stronger, and it helps us to make right choices in the future. To learn more about trusting God’s when He says “no,” or to sign up for our free daily devotions, visit Proverbs 31 ministries at proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

What Happens When a Woman Says Yes to God by Lysa TerKeurst

Encouragement for Today

Keeping Hurt Feelings in Check

Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

Have you heard the expression, “Hurt people, hurt people?” Hi I’m Lysa TerKeurst with Proverbs 31 Ministries. When someone hurts my feelings it can ruin my whole day. I find myself getting withdrawn. I snap at my kids. I’m short with my husband. Why is it so hard to step back from a hurtful situation and recognize it as one incident and not a life defining moment?

This is something I’ve decided to work on. When someone says something hurtful, I’m going to ask myself if any part of their statement was justified. I want to learn the truth of the situation and let the untrue parts go. I also need to pray and ask God to remind me of His constant love and forgiveness for me. I’m not a bad person and the one hurting me isn’t either. We’re both humans in need of the grace that God so freely gives. Lastly, I must forgive this person before bitterness has the chance to set in and rob my joy. For more encouragement, log on to Proverbs31.org.

Related Resources

Sandpaper People, by Mary Southerland

“Are You Struggling?” ETC Jan 2005, by Rachel Olsen

You’re a Can Do Kid!

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

I can’t! I can’t! Hi, I’m Renee Swope with Proverbs 31 Ministries. I’m convinced there’s a disease of doubt and my son had it a few years ago. “I can’t,” he cried, when I tried to help him swim under water. “I can’t,” he screamed every time I asked him to read a word! I decided to try something Jesus did with his friend, Peter. I gave my son a new name! “Andrew,” I said, “beginning today, you are my ‘CAN DO KID’. You are no longer allowed to say “I can’t” because Andrew, there are so many things you can do! That night I showed Andrew how to set the table - one plate and fork at a time. Then I watched him complete each setting. He was so proud and when he finished, he said, “Mommy, I can do it!” Recently I offered to help him feed the dog. “I don’t need help mom.” He said, “I’m a CAN DO KID!” For more ideas to help your children overcome doubt visit us at Proverbs31.org.

Related Resources

You’re a Can Do Kid Devotion by Renee Swope

Wise Words for Moms, by Ginger Plowman

Organization for Messies

Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

I have found that disorder drains while order invigorates. Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst with Proverbs 31 Ministries. I don’t know how it happened but my office was a disaster area. I wanted a tidy space in which to work but getting from this complete mess to organization seemed overwhelming. Do you have a space in your home like this? Well, take heart there is hope. Here are some things that helped me conquer the clutter monster: First, get an organized friend to help give you a new vision for your space. Then, invest in the necessary storage bins, files, and supplies. Now remember, get rid of anything that’s not absolutely necessary

And, add a few touches that reflect your unique personality. Once you take pride in this area you’re more likely to keep it tidy. For more ideas to improve your everyday life, log on to Proverbs 31 Ministries at Proverbs31.org.

Related Resources

Cleaning Up the Clutter, by Emilie Barnes

“Organizing Paper Clutter in Your Home”, ETC Jan 2004, by Sharon Glasgow

Your Single Friends

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Jill Tracey

Have you lost a great friend just because one of you got married? Hi, I’m Renee Swope with Proverbs 31 Ministries. Sometimes it feels like there’s an unwritten rule that married women can only be friends with married women and single women with singles. But is a shopping trip out of the question just because one of you is married? Can you no longer “veg out” together with a carton of ice cream and your favorite chick flicks? Sure, you’ll have to start earlier in the day now so you’re not up ‘til 3 a.m., but it doesn’t have to end! If you’re married, invite your girlfriend to dinner. You never know, maybe your husband can give her some advice on that guy she’s dating. If you’re single, don’t forget your married friends on girls night out. They love their husbands, but they need time with you as well. Our girlfriends are so important, whether we’re single or married. To learn more about being a great friend or to sign up for our on-line encouragement groups, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:
A Woman’s Secret to a Balanced Life, by Lysa TerKeurst

Proverbs 31 Online Communities

Thoughts, Quotes and Scriptures on Mentoring,” ETC October 2004:

Working With Children At Home

Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Writer: Glynnis Whitwer and Lysa TerKeurst

Working from home can sound like a dream until we have a nightmare of a day. Hi I’m Lysa TerKeurst with Proverbs 31 Ministries. The truth is, as much as we love being near our kids; it can make working at home challenging. Here are three helpful ideas that my friend Glynnis Whitwer shares in her new book: “work@home”.

First, Invest in independent activities: Before you plop your son in front of the television set, spend some time shopping for learning activities he can do alone. Just as a teacher plans her day, plan your child’s day with things he can do.

Second, Create clear rules: Make sure your children know the rules about how to act when you are working. If they have a question, let them know the appropriate way to interrupt you. Anticipating situations and defining appropriate behavior should help alleviate many issues.

And finally, Take frequent breaks. Give your children some undivided attention. Even a 10-minute break will help fill their “love tanks.”

For more ideas log on to Proverbs31.org.

Related Resources

Balance that Works When Life Doesn’t, by Susie Larson

work@home:A Practical Guide for Woman Who Want to Work from Home
by Glynnis Whitwer

“Great Tips For Organizing Paper Clutter in Your Home”, ETC Jan 2004,
by Sharon Glasgow

Finding Christ in Our CHAOS

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Marybeth Whalen and Zoe Elmore

Do your days ever feel like a maze of confusion filled with CHAOS? Hi, I’m Renee Swope, with Proverbs 31 Ministries. My friend Zoe created an acrostic to give her a different way to think of CHAOS: Christ’s Hope Amidst Our Situations. When her life starts to feel chaotic, she thinks about this alternative: Instead of giving into the chaos, look for the hope that Christ offers you that day. Too often, we get tunnel vision - seeing only the craziness. We get blinded by the CHAOS and miss the fact that Jesus promises to be with us and help us daily. God has a perspective change for each of us if we will only focus on Him and not our situation. He can bring us peace and rest for our souls. He doesn’t want our lives to be ruled by CHAOS. So, let’s change the way we think about CHAOS today. Let’s look for Christ’s Hope Amidst Our Situations instead. To learn more about defeating CHAOS in your life, visit Proverbs31.org.

Related Resources

“Confidence in Chaos,” Online Devotion by Zoe Elmore

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

What Happens When Women Walk in Faith, by Lysa TerKeurst

The Gentle Art of Kindness

Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

Sometimes in the rush of my hectic days, I find myself forgetting the gentle art of kindness. Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst with Proverbs 31 Ministries. I’ve discovered that being kind is becoming so rare that people really notice it when it happens these days. Simple things like letting that car over in traffic, helping a young mom manage getting her kids and groceries to her car, giving a compliment, or making dinner for a friend just because.

All of these things help us practice being a servant and make us more like Jesus. And it speaks volumes when our kids watch us model what we’re trying to teach them. Do you want to know the quickest way to infuse great joy into your life today? Look around… there is a whole world of opportunities to model Jesus to others by practicing the gentle art of kindness. For more inspiration log on to Proverbs31.org.

Related Resources

What Happens When Women Walk in Faith, by Lysa TerKeurst

Influence and Adversity, by Zoe Elmore

Getting Over Life’s Hurdles

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Glynnis Whitwer

I watched the Olympic race in stunned amazement. How could this happen? Hi, I’m Renee Swope with Proverbs 31 Ministries. The world's top ranked woman tripped over the first hurdle and fell to the ground. Just one mistake, one misjudgment, and her chances of winning were over! Life is so much like a race and we need help to get over life’s hurdles. Our hurdles pop up at the most surprising and inconvenient times! The good news is – our hurdles don’t surprise God! The Bible tells us how to run the race God has marked out for us. We need to get rid of everything that hinders us and we need to keep our eyes on Jesus, not our hurdles! John Derby once said, "When we keep our eyes on Jesus, nothing is easier; when we are not looking at Him, nothing more impossible." We’re here to help you get over today’s hurdles - If you need some encouragement visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at www.Proverbs31.org.

Related Resources

“The Hurdle Race of Life,” by Glynnis Whitwer - November 9, 2004 Devotion

What Happens When Women Walk in Faith, by Lysa TerKeurst

How do I love you?

Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

How do I love you? Let me count the ways… Hi I’m Lysa TerKeurst with Proverbs 31 Ministries. I was thinking about “ways” to love my husband the other day. You know, it’s easy to throw him a quick ‘I love you’ as he walks out the door to work or as we end a phone conversation. But how have my actions been speaking ‘I love you’ lately? I know the things that make him feel loved but have I been making the extra effort to do those things?

Simple things that speak volumes of love especially to him like cutting up a fresh pineapple for him, a back rub, matching his socks or making his favorite meal. In my fast pace life with a hectic schedule sometimes I get stuck on autopilot in my marriage. But, I don’t want a so-so marriage. I want a great marriage. Therefore, I must take time, make time, to invest energy and effort into it. For more ideas on ways to strengthen your marriage, log on to Proverbs31.org.

Related Resources

Capture His Heart, by Lysa TerKeurst

What a Husband Needs from His Wife, by Melanie Chitwood

“Marriage 101”, ETC Feb 2004, by Mary Southerland

Listening to Your Child’s Dreams

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Marybeth Whalen

Has your child ever told you about a dream he just had? Hi, I’m Renee Swope with Proverbs 31 Ministries. My son woke up one morning and told me he’d had the best dream ever! While he told me the details, I listened closely and realized what he was telling me. Though it seemed like just another childhood dream from just another night, he was actually sharing his heart. Isn’t that what every mom wants - a relationship with her children where trust is built and dreams are shared? How can we make sure our children share their hearts with us? Well, we can listen when then have something to say. We can stop what we’re doing and concentrate. We can respond with thoughts of our own and examples from our lives. By doing this, we’re not just hearing their words, we’re hearing their dreams and peeking inside the secret places of their hearts. For more ideas on becoming the best mom you can be, check out our web site at http://www.proverbs31.org/.

Related Resources:
Mining for Gold in the Heart of Your Child, by Renee Swope

“10 Ways to Keep Lines of Communication Open with Kids,” ETC August 2004

Thanking God for Saying No

Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

When is the last time you thanked God for saying no? Hi I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. A few years ago my husband and I were moving full steam ahead with a major life decision. We had prayed about this and watched every door open. We just knew that this was God’s plan for us. Then suddenly the doors closed. We were stunned and to be honest a little hurt. My feelings tugged at my heart to ask God why but there seemed to be no explanation at the time.

Now, looking back though, I am rejoicing that God closed those doors so definitively. It makes so much sense in light of what only God could see was coming into our lives. Have you questioned God over a no answer recently? Why not try praising Him for protecting you from what only He can see. For more life encouragement, log on to Proverbs31.org and be sure to sign up for our free daily devotional, “Encouragement for Today.”

Related Resources

What Happens When Women Walk in Faith, by Lysa TerKeurst

Trust Me, by Wendy Pope

What Color Are Your Eyes Today?

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

What color are your eyes today? Hi, I’m Renee Swope with Proverbs 31 Ministries. My eyes are hazel, so they change colors. If I wear brown my eyes look brown, but if I wear green they look green. I wish it were only my clothes that turn my eyes green. Unfortunately, some days my eyes turn green with envy! The other day my friend bought new furniture and suddenly I wanted some too! Then a neighbor got a new SUV. Now my minivan feels old fashioned! You know there is a way to guard against the green-eyes of greed and the Bible says it is based on what we wear. God tells us to clothe ourselves with humility, and patience. When I wear humility, I give up my right to get more stuff. And when I put on patience, I choose to wait on God’s provision without doubting His love for me. He knows stuff doesn’t satisfy and greed, well it only turns our eyes green! For more information on guarding against envy, visit us at www.Proverbs31.org.

Related Resources

"A Green-Eyed Saint" by Susanne Scheppmann - November 15, 2004 Devotion

“Attitude of Gratitude,” ETC November 2004

“Material Girls,” ETC March 2005

The Heart of Your Child

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

Do you ever find yourself being critical of your child? Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. One of the hardest truths I’ve confronted is my need for perfection from my kids. Why do I want them to be perfect? Well, if I’m honest, it’s because I think it reflects on me as their mother. As a result, I sometimes overlook efforts put forth by my kids if things don’t meet my standards.

When I lay my self-centeredness aside, my children’s insecurities often disappear and they display courage I didn’t know they had. My kids feel more secure when they know I have connected with them on a heart level.

Practice focusing on the heart of your child. Dig past the stuff on the outside. Encourage them. Ask questions. Pray with them and listen. I bet you will begin to really hear their hearts.
For my ideas on being a good mom, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

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

Mining for Gold in the Heart of Your Child, Chart and CD by Renee Swope

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

Power Tools

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

Have you ever thought of yourself as a power tool? Hi, I’m Renee Swope, with Proverbs 31 Ministries. My husband bought some new tools to fix a few things around the house. I was watching him build some shelves and thought about how God uses us as tools to build His house. I know someone who’s good at digging below the surface of problems to discover what’s wrong. I call her a drill! Do you know someone who nails down a plan and gets things done? She’s a hammer! What about those people who always have words of wisdom. I call them “levels” - they always straighten things out. What’s neat is that we all have gifts that can be used as tools in God’s hands. No matter what you’re good at, God wants to use you! The Bible says we are all being built into a house where God can live - so let’s get out our power tools and start building!! To learn more about discovering your gifts, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:
Getting in S.H.A.P.E Workbook

Personality Plus, by Florence Littauer

“SPIRITUAL GIFTS: God's Dynamic Provision for His Church,” ETC September 2004