Worst Mommy Ever

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst and Amanda Waldroop

Are you having a “worst mommy ever” day? Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. It was supposed to be a fun weekend until my husband had to go out of town unexpectedly, leaving me with our five kids and their hectic schedules. My stress level on the rise, I forgot to feed the boys before their soccer game. So, I sped to a drive-thru to pick up breakfast. I hit a pothole pulling out of the parking lot which caused the drinks to spill everywhere. And before I knew it, a few unmentionable words spilled out of my mouth right in front of my kids! Later, I called a friend sobbing to tell her what a bad mother I was. She said:
Lysa,
1) Apologize to them
2) Ask God for forgiveness
3) Let Him change your attitude.
4) And get over it.

If you’re having a bad day, realize just because it started out that way doesn’t mean it has to finish that way! For more encouragement as a mom, visit proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

The Bathtub is Overflowing, But I am Feeling Drained, by Lysa TerKeurst

An Encouraging Word, January 2004 ETC

U- turns

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

Oh no, I missed my exit! I guess I’ll have to make a U-turn!” Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Have you ever been driving so fast or been too distracted to see that you missed your turn? That’s happened to me a lot while I was driving, but also as I’ve been going along in life. I’ve gotten distracted by worries and I’ve also been so caught up in my wants and my needs. I’ve mapped out my own life journey and I’ve gotten lost in it! That’s when I realize I’ve missed God’s path. BUT I don’t have to keep going! I can make a U-turn, and SO CAN YOU! All we have to do is talk to God; ask Him to show us how to turn around. The Bible says, “Trust in God with all your heart and don’t lean on your own understanding. Acknowledge Him in all your ways, and He will make your path straight!” Now that’s a promise! For more of God’s promises for your life journey, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at Proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

Running On Empty, by Aaron Chambers

"Legally Blind" by Gwen Smith, November 18, 2005 Devotion

Try A Little Tenderness

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

I love the scene in the movie Shrek where Donkey gives Shrek some advice on winning Fiona’s heart. He says, “You’ve got to, got to, got to, try a little tenderness!” Hi I’m Lysa TerKeurst with Proverbs 31 Ministries and if you’re a husband, Donkey’s words can teach you a lot about how to treat your wife. Tenderness goes a long way with a woman. So, why not try a little tenderness with your wife today? Maybe stop and get her some flowers on your way home from work or write a simple note telling her three things you love about her. Or, my favorite tip, take a sticky note and write the word perfect on it. Then place it on top of the numbers on her bathroom scale so that’s what she’ll see the next time she weighs herself. These things take very little time or money but will speak volumes of love to your wife in a very tender way! If you’d like more ideas on how to treat your wife, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at Proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:
Capture Her Heart, by Lysa TerKeurst

Marriage 101, By Mary Southerland – ETC, February 2004

What’s Wrong with This Man?

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

Are the things that drew you to your husband beginning to drive you apart? Hi, I’m Renee Swope with Proverbs 31 Ministries. In marriage we’ll experience countless situations where the differences between a wife and a husband are glaringly evident. But you know, God planned our differences. The Bible says He created male and female.

If God designed us to be different, we can trust He did so for our good. But it doesn’t always feel that way, does it? Sometimes the differences in our husbands make us think, What is wrong with this man?

There are two approaches to our differences. First, we can magnify them by focusing on the negative. Then we can try to change or fix our husbands, which creates a barrier between us. OR we can accept those differences and recognize God as the designer of our husbands. When you begin to feel frustrated with your husband’s “maleness,” ask God to give you patience, understanding and love for the way He created your husband. Need more encouragement for your marriage? Visit Proverbs31.org

Related Resources:
“Spouse!” by Susanne Scheppmann – February 10, 2005 Devotion

Capture His Heart, by Lysa TerKeurst

What Every Husband Needs, by Melanie Chitwood

Everyday Thankfulness

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

I woke up this morning to the most beautiful scene. Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Birds were singing just outside my window, the sun was starting to appear over the horizon and my kids were all sleeping. My heart welled up with thankfulness and I thought, “God, when’s the last time that I thanked you for the simple, everyday things I so often take for granted?” Immediately, I started thanking Him for my home that is safe, my kitchen stocked with food, for the health of my kids, and my car that gets us where we need to go. Now don’t get me wrong…life’s not perfect. After I thanked God I had to ask Him for some help with some things as well. But how it filled my heart with joy to first recognize all the good ways God had already provided for me. If you’d like some daily encouragement for your life journey be sure to visit Proverbs 31 Ministries today at Proverbs 31.org.

Related Resources:

Living Life on Purpose, By Lysa TerKeurst

An Attitude of Gratitude by Micca Campbell, ETC November 2004

Better Caught Than Taught

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

Mom, how am I supposed to learn to use kind words when you don’t use them with me? Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries, and, yes, my son actually said that. I’d answered the phone during “no phone” time. When I hung up, I remembered I needed to take a shower so we could leave in 45 minutes to meet friends. I rushed to get ready and shouted to Joshua to finish homework and put things away before watching a video. Once I was ready, I came hurrying downstairs and discovered two boys in front of the tv, and papers strewn across the table. I threatened they’d never watch television again and rushed them to the car!

That’s when my son asked that piercing question. And, you know, he’s right. If I can’t be patient and use kind words under pressure, how will my children learn to do so? I need to show them how and I need God’s help! Parenting can be hard but we’re not alone!! For more encouragement as a mom, visit us at Proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

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

Treasures of Truth by Renee Swope - August 25, 2005 Devotion

Friendship Choices

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

“I want to quit school!” Oh such delightful words to hear from my twelve year old! Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Growing up is hard to do especially in those ‘tween years. But this is also a time when life long perspectives on important issues are formed. So, we as parents have to be ready with advice that offers comfort, confidence and connection. It turned out my daughter was having some problems with her girlfriends. So, I hugged her, prayed with her and gave her some tips on dealing with friends when they hurt your feelings. A few days later she got in the car after school and said, “Mom, I’ve decided you have a choice with your friends. You can either deal with their quirks or stop hanging around them.” I replied back, “Now there’s a friendship lesson for girls young and old!” Speaking of friends, we consider you a friend and we’d love to have you visit us at Proverbs 31 Ministries. So log on to proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

Sandpaper People, by Mary Southerland

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

Wise Up, by Rebecca Ingram Powell

Hearing the Coach’s Voice

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writers: Renee Swope and Melissa Taylor

I hear so many voices every day! How do I know which one is God’s voice? Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. My friend, Melissa, learned how to hear God’s voice while watching her son, Hayden, play soccer. Usually Hayden played offense and scored lots of goals, but this time he was assigned to guard the goal. The game was close. One dad shouted, “Hayden, kick the ball, follow through”. The coach yelled, “Hayden, back up. Play your position.” Another dad said, “Come on #9, chase that ball, go for the goal.” Shouting above the crowd, the coach said, “Hayden, listen to me!” Hayden looked upset. After the game Melissa asked what was wrong. Hayden said, “I couldn’t decide who to listen to! I couldn’t tell which one was the coach’s voice.”

Listening for God’s voice can be like that. Like Hayden, we need to stop, look toward our coach by reading the Bible and then do what He says because God knows what’s best for us! To learn more about hearing God’s voice, visit us today at proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

Hearing The Coach’s Voice Devotion by Melissa Taylor

Encouragement for Today FREE email Devotions – Sign Up Today

What Happens When Women Say Yes To God, Lysa TerKeurst

Choosing My Words

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

Why is it that I can be so kind to strangers and then - just seconds later - impatient and unkind to those I love most? Hi I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Unfortunately that old saying is true, “Familiarity breeds contempt.” But I don’t want short fuses, quick tempers, and rushed conversations to be the legacy I build with my family. The Bible tells us to be “quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.” My reactions to my family are a matter of choice not chance. I have to not only desire to be kind to the ones I love, but I have to choose to do so. I have to think about my words before I speak and ask myself, “Am I being quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry?” Well, I know, it’s up to me to make it happen! For more family building ideas visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at Proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

30 Days to Taming Your Tongue, by Deborah Smith Pegues

"If Mama Ain't Happy" by Susanne Scheppmann, May 16, 2005 Devotion

Growing a Reader

Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

Help! My child doesn't know how to read! Hi, I'm Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. When my son was in 2nd grade he struggled with learning to read. As I tried to help him learn, I learned a few things myself about growing an avid reader. Nothing instills a love of reading in a child more than reading together. Even if you're not much of a reader yourself, once you start reading with your kids, you'll find yourself having a lot of fun. Another powerful influence for children to learn to read comes from seeing their favorite people reading on a regular basis. Let your kids see you reading your Bible, the newspaper, or a favorite book every day. Your child's confidence in reading will also grow each time they experience success! And success comes from re-reading favorite books. Instead of saying, "We've read that one already," try saying, "Oh that's your favorite, let's read it again." For 15 ways to grow a reader, visit the radio section of our website at proverbs31.

Related Resources:

”15 Ways to Grow a Reader”

“Family Read-Alouds”

Five Star Families, by Carol Kuykendall

I’m Tired of My Husband

Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

I was saddened by what my friend was sharing. She was tired of her husband so she was leaving him because she found the man she dreamed of being with. Hi I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. I was stunned by my friend’s decision. But just two years later I ran into this friend and was even more stunned by her confession. With tears in her eyes she admitted that fairy tales don’t exist. Every relationship feels thrilling at the beginning but then real life happens and marriage is hard work no matter who you are married to. When I asked her to tell me about her new husband she just kind of smiled and said, “Well, he’s hairy.” How telling that what was once so irresistible that she traded everything for it, had now been reduced to one word…hairy?! I’m convinced that in marriage the grass isn’t greener on the other side. The grass is greener where you water and fertilize it. For more helpful ideas on not just surviving but thriving in your marriage, log on to Proverbs 31.org.

Related Resources:

"A Biblical Perspective on Marriage" by Lysa TerKeurst - February 13, 2006 Devotion

Capture His Heart, by Lysa TerKeurst

What Every Husband Needs, by Melanie Chitwood

Divisive or Decisive?

Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Marybeth Whalen

My husband likes to discuss something and make a decision. I like to discuss something, discuss it some more, and, a few days later, discuss it again! Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. This difference can be frustrating for both of us and is common in marriage. Generally, men tend to be more black and white, while women lean toward the gray areas. We want to weigh our options, dwell in possibilities, and consider every aspect. And, sometimes we can take this to the extreme. By over analyzing a situation we can become indecisive and damage our relationships with loved ones and with God. God wants us to be resolute in our convictions. The Bible says God will give us perfect peace when we confidently trust in Him. Are you struggling with a tough decision in your life right now? Ask God to help you make the decision He wants you to make. And when He does, you’ll experience peace that comes from having a confident heart. To learn more about trusting God, visit proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:
"A Steadfast Heart" by Marybeth Whalen, May 11, 2005 Devotion

Journey of a Woman's Heart (4 tape set) by Renee Swope

“Intermission” by Sharon Jaynes, November 8, 2004 Devotion

God’s Love Story for Us

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

Don’t you adore a good love story? You know, the kind that make your heart race. Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. I love stories where there’s an attraction between a man and woman, but circumstances pull them apart. Then, they come together at the end with a kiss sealing the deal for a lifetime. Why do these stories move us? Because God designed our hearts for an eternal love story. But, sometimes we lose sight of it and serve God out of duty, not delight. He becomes just another thing on our never ending to-do list. His life-giving principles get reduced to another set of rules we have to follow. Trying to spend time with God becomes another source of guilt and stress. So how do we capture the eternal love our souls were designed for? By remembering that no matter what life brings, God is with us! To learn how to discover the romance your heart was made to find, log on to proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

“How the Story Ends” by Lysa TerKeurst – June 12, 2006 Devotion

“God’s Purrfect Love” by Janet Burke – February 20, 2006 Devotion

What Happens When Women Walk in Faith, by Lysa TerKeurst

When You Think About God

Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

When you think about God, what do you see? Hi, I'm Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. One time I asked this question to a group of women. First, I had them close their eyes and think about God. Then they took turns describing what they saw. One woman saw someone like King Triton from Little Mermaid. Another saw a friendly man like Mr. Rogers. Nicole said she simply saw hands. Later, Nicole told me she was just beginning to search for answers about God. While driving home, I prayed that one day Nicole would see more than just hands. Then I realized those weren't just hands. They were God's hands reaching out to Nicole inviting her to trust Him. I wonder, “What do you see when you think of God?” Is He reaching out His hands offering His love and forgiveness to you? Are you ready to respond? If you'd like to begin a relationship with God, click on “Do You Know Him? at our website, Proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

Do You Know Him?

“Our Image of God” by Renee Swope, October 19, 2005 Devotion

Who Holds the Key to Your Heart? by Lysa TerKeurst

The Pineapple Lesson

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

Let’s face it…a pineapple is only sweet to eat if you know how to get inside it! Hi I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries and for years I didn’t have a clue about how to cut up a pineapple so I could enjoy the wonderful treat beneath its tough outer skin. So, unless someone else was serving it, I simply settled for the canned version. At least I knew how to operate my can opener! But one day I watched a friend accomplish what I thought impossible. She didn’t miss a beat as she sliced and diced with ease. Watching her gave me courage to try it on my own. And, finally, I was able to help myself to the yummy fruit. Studying the Bible can be just like getting into that pineapple. Until you know how to do it, discovering God’s truths straight from the source can be a little intimidating. But, oh how sweet it is. If you need a friend to show you how to dig in to God’s word, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at Proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

“Got Wisdom?” by Rachel Olsen - April 28, 2006 Devotion

“Close To You” by Marybeth Whalen - April 5, 2006 Devotion

Living Life on Purpose, by Lysa TerKeurst

P31 Woman Magazine

Do Something for Yourself Every Day

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Jill Tracey

What’ve you done for yourself today? Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries and I want you to be honest. Have you done anything today just for you? I’m not talking about an hour long hot stone massage – although that would be good. But, have you taken even a moment to do something you want to do? With all we do for others it’s easy to put ourselves on the back burner. That’s also an easy way to burn ourselves out. So, I’m trying to do something for me every day. Maybe it’s extra time reading the Bible and listening to music. Or maybe it’s painting my toenails, reading a chapter of the novel that’s been on my nightstand for weeks, or watching my favorite design show. The point is that when I take 20, 30, or even just five minutes for myself, I’m much more willing and able to give all the other minutes away. For more encouragement in your many roles as a woman, log on to www.proverbs31.org

Related Resources

“Spring Into S.H.A.P.E.” by Micca Monda Campbell, May 30, 2006 Devotion

“Give A Mom A Minute,” by Trish Berg - ETC November 2005

The Bathtub is Overflowing, by Lysa TerKeurst

Time-Out for Moms, Part 1

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Amanda Waldrop

I think I need a time-out! Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. We moms all have days when our attitudes aren’t what they should be. And, it’s easy to let our emotions control us and operate based on how we’re feeling. If we’re feeling happy, patience isn’t a problem. But, if our stress level rises our patience can easily slip. If we feel organized, we can be stable. But, if things are misplaced, it’s easy to feel out of control and fly off the handle. This roller coaster of emotions is hard on everyone.

I’ve found the only stabilizing force when I’m experiencing emotional chaos is to take a time-out and ask God to calm me down. To allow God to give me what I need when I’m feeling off-balance is a daily discipline. I have to rely on His strength, power, control and provision. To find out more on how to live a balanced life in today’s busy world, log on to proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

“Give Mom A Minute”, by Trish Berg – ETC November 2005

Bathtub is Overflowing, by Lysa TerKeurst

The P31 Woman Magazine

The Power of Music

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Jill Tracey

The other day I was listening to a 70’s and 80’s station and was shocked that I knew almost every word to almost every song! Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. My memory perplexed me. How can I remember songs I haven’t heard in years but not remember what I need to get at the store on the way home? That’s the power of music. You probably remember the songs you grew up with as well. When I thought about it I realized why it’s important for my husband and me to carefully monitor what our kids hear. Some of the lyrics I was able to belt out were not words I’d want to hear my children singing. I’m so glad they’re growing up with a radio station that plays positive music that reinforces what we’re teaching them about life and God’s love for them. It’ll be fun in 20 or 30 years to see what songs they’re still able to sing along to. For more encouragement, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at proverbs31.org.

Related Resources
Because, CD by Gwen Smith

“Do As I Do” by Kristy Tolley - May 24, 2006 Devotional

“Witness the Work of God To Your Children” by Glynnis Whitwer - June 8, 2005 Devotional

Calling All Single Women!

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Amanda Waldrop

Are you a single woman who feels like your life is on pause while you wait for God’s plan to unfold? Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries and I want to help you celebrate your singleness! Now, depending on how you feel about being single, that might frustrate you. I know I’ve always been waiting for what I thought should be next in life instead of being content where I am. When I was young I wanted to grow up. When I was single I wanted to be married. When I was married I wanted to buy a home. When we moved in I couldn’t wait to start a family. I think longing for what’s next is natural. God designed us to change. But, speaking from experience, it’s unhealthy when we focus solely on what we think should have happened by now. God wants to give us His peace, perspective, and purpose in every season of life, even if it lasts longer than we’d like. If you’d like some encouragement for your season, log on to proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

“What’s Your Value?” by Glynnis Whitwer - May 31, 2005 Devotion

“Why Do I Exist?” by Lysa TerKeurst - June 15, 2005 Devotion

Beautiful in God’s Eyes, by Elizabeth GEorge

Finding Balance

Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

Is your life out of balance? Hi, I'm Renee Swope with Proverbs 31 Ministries. The other day I was putting clothes away when I heard a loud noise downstairs. I ran to see what had happened and discovered my washing machine banging against the wall in our laundry room. My son had loaded it with several pairs of jeans and sweatshirts that moved to one side, knocking it off balance. You know, sometimes my life is like that. I overload my schedule with too many things and knock myself out of balance. And, then I find myself wanting to bang my head against a wall. That's when I have to sort through the load and ask God to show me what I need to remove from my calendar completely or what needs to be put a little lower on my to-do list. Are you looking for ways to balance your life? Proverbs 31 Ministries would love to help – that is what we’re here for – to bring God's peace, perspective, and purpose to your busy life. For more ideas, visit us at proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:
“Confidence in Chaos”, by Zoe Elmore, April 10, 2006 Devotion

“Toppled By the Pressure” by Zoe Elmore, January 13, 2006 Devotion

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

Living Life on Purpose, book and journal set by Lysa TerKeurst

The Art of Being Thankful

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

The art of thanksgiving is one we should pass on to our kids. Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. I’m not talking about the holiday with turkey, but rather an attitude of thankfulness. Like most parents, I want the words thank you to fall easily from my children’s lips. But, since I know my kids will do what I do, not just what I say, I decided to take a look at how thankful I am. I found that even though I’m incredibly blessed, I usually forget to openly express my gratitude. So how can we help our kids and ourselves adopt a thankful attitude?

First, we need to remember to thank God for everything. Then, we need to intentionally verbalize our “thank yous”. Finally, we need to let our kids know that we expect a thankful attitude from them. By doing this, our homes will start to overflow with love and thankfulness! For more ideas on being thankful, log on to Proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

“Thank You” by Susanne Scheppmann – May 5, 2005 Devotion

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

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

Staying Connected

Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

Are you and your husband connected like a completed puzzle, or do you feel totally disconnected? Hi, I'm Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Remember the days before you were married when you went on dates and talked for hours about what was going on in your life? Well, why not do that now by setting aside time each week to connect? My husband and I try to plan time together each week. Sometimes we go out for dinner and some weeks we simply sit on the couch and talk. Usually we just catch up on things we’ve been thinking about or plans we want to make. It’s amazing how disconnected we feel when we miss our dates. Just like other couples, we struggle to balance our priorities that pull us in different directions and can leave us scattered like puzzle pieces on a table. Is it time for you and your husband to reconnect? Try getting some talk time this week. And, if you need more encouragement, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

Capture His/Her Hear, set by Lysa TerKeurst

“Prayers for Your Marriage”

The Dangers of Over Parenting

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

Are you in danger of overparenting your child? Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Some people refer to the overparenting woman as a “helicopter mom” who hovers over her child’s every move. She calls the teacher to complain about every grade below an A, and can be found at the source of everything her child does and is. Her child’s success is what matters most to her.

Parenting experts warn that this type of behavior sends children the message that they’re loved for what they do, not simply for who they are. It also makes them feel like they can’t succeed on their own. And, as they grow up, statistics show they may be at higher risk for anxiety disorders and depression, and more likely to lead less directed lives as adults. And, this parenting style can also cause marital problems. Are you hovering over your children? If you think you might be in danger of overparenting your kids, log on to proverbs31.org to find out God’s plan for you to have a balanced life.

Related Resources:

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

“Weaving a Robe of Success” by Van Walton – July 4, 2006 Devotion

“A Legacy of Prayer” by Mary Beth Whalen – June 27, 2005 Devotion