A Contented Life

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writers: Amy Carroll and Amanda Waldroop

If you’re looking for contentment, don’t ask God for what you want – ask Him to help you want what you have. Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Isn’t it ironic that the more we have, the more we want? It’ so easy to live beyond our means because we think we need more stuff. We end up spending out of control, landing ourselves knee-deep in debt.

When I experience financial anxiety, I know it’s time to seek contentment in what God’s provided for me. I need to start by thanking God for what I already have, knowing it’s the first step to being faithful with my resources.

When we struggle financially, we have to be careful not to envy those who don’t. And when we aren’t struggling financially, we need to guard our hearts against wanting a position of greater wealth than what God has given us.

God rewards good stewardship and is faithful to supply our needs - and even our wants now and then! For more encouragement, visit Proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

“Learning Contentment,” January 2, 2007, Online Daily Devotion

Six Habits of Highly Effective Christians, by Brian T Anderson & Glynnis Whitwer

Choice, Not Chance

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

Having a great marriage is a matter of choice, not chance. Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Leaving a marriage up to chance is like saying, “I hope we’ll just happen to have good communication, romantic dates, and share the responsibilities of life. “ These things don’t just happen.

If I want good communication, then I have to make sure my husband and I can really talk; not just debrief about the day’s events, but really dream, plan, laugh, and grow together. If I want romance, then I have to describe what that means to my husband. If I want him to long to come home at night, then I need to ask him how I can make our home a place he looks forward to returning to after work.

If I choose to invest wisely in my marriage, I can help it work the way God intended it to. For more marriage ideas, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

“The Marriage I’ve Always Wanted”, March 16, 2007,Online Devotion

Capture His Heart by Lysa TerKeurst

This Crazy Little Thing Called Love Conference Tape Set

A Day of Thanks

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writers: Marybeth Whalen and Renee Swope

You’ve heard of a day of rest…how about a day of thanks? Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Moving from one activity to the next often makes me forget to thank God for everything He does for me. He takes care of my needs, gives me wisdom to solve problems, and sends friends to encourage and comfort me when I need it. He gives me life and the hope of eternal life in Heaven. So, I want to get intentional about saying “thank you.” What about you?

Maybe once a week, or once a month, we can start planning family activities around giving thanks to God. We can play music that helps us say thank you and designate time to read from the Bible about giving thanks to Him. And, we can begin meals with a little time to talk about how we’ve seen God working in our lives and focuse on who He really is – our Creator, our Savior, and our Provider. For more ideas to celebrate God’s goodness in your life, visit proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:
“Saying Thank You,” November 27, 2006, Online Daily Devotion

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

A Manual for Marriage

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

Did your marriage come with batteries included? Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. On my wedding day I carried a lot of expectations with me down the aisle. I thought marriage would automatically make these expectations a reality, but I soon discovered that marriage is like getting a new toy.

Beneath the packaging lies an object with an “on” button that you push only to find that nothing happens. This leaves you confused and disappointed because you were so sure that just getting the toy would bring instant happiness.

But then you discover three little words: “Batteries not included.” The toy only works when the energy it needs to function is placed into it.

Well, I’ve found that marriage is the same. We start by reading God’s instruction manual for our relationships: the Bible. Then, we can look for ways to invest the time and energy needed to make it work.

For more marriage ideas log on to proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

“The Marriage I’ve Always Wanted”, March 16, 2007,Online Devotion

Capture His Heart by Lysa TerKeurst

Don’t Go There

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writers: Wendy Pope and Renee Swope

What’s your greatest temptation? Is it chocolate, shopping, or talking about other people? Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. I’ve noticed that my temptation to do something I shouldn’t do is hardest to resist when I let myself get close to it. Sometimes I simply tell myself, “Don’t even GO there!”

The Bible warns that our spirits are willing to say no, but our flesh is too weak to resist, so we have to take action. If I know temptation is right around the corner, I have to remove myself from it.

If my temptation is chocolate, I have to keep it out of sight. If it’s a great sale at the mall, I leave my credit card at home. If it’s gossip, I avoid being around people who like to talk about others. I’ve found that when I live by the motto “Don’t go there;” I don’t have to regret that I did. For more encouragement visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at Proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

“Lead Me Not Into Temptation,” August 16, 2006, Online Daily Devotions

Worship: Nearing The Heart of God, by Brian T Anderson and Glynnis Whitwer

Saying Yes

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

Since I was a little girl I’ve had a heart for the people in remote parts of Africa, but I never wanted to actually live there. Hi, I’m Lysa Terkeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries and while I prayed for the people of Africa, I would always throw in, “But Lord, don’t send me there!”

Many years later, God said, “Okay, then I will send Africa to you.” Soon afterward, our family adopted two teenage boys from Liberia. Now, I’m always moved by the sight of my boys who just a few years ago were forgotten orphans but now are beloved family members... my sons.

Have you ever felt like you wanted to do something courageous for God but were just afraid to say “yes” to whatever He might ask? Well, I know that feeling but I’m so glad I said “yes” anyway. What will you say? For more insight, take a look at our Encouragement for Today free daily email by logging on to proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

“Don’t Send Me to Africa”, March 26, 2007, Online Devotion

What Happens When Women Say Yes to God by Lysa TerKeurst

Husband Helpers Needed

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

How do you respond when your husband needs your help? Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. My friend Melissa loves helping her husband but she also LOVES being a stay at home mom. Most of her days are filled with carpool, errands, and volunteering at school – which she enjoys!

Last year Melissa’s husband went through a tough time with his business and had to cut his staff. She noticed how exhausted he seemed each day so Melissa asked God what role she should play in Jeff’s life during this time. The words “suitable helper” from the Bible kept coming to mind, so Melissa asked Jeff what she could do. He asked her to be his part time assistant.

That was NOT what Melissa wanted to hear. It didn’t fit into her plans. But, it has brought her more joy than she ever expected – and peace to Jeff’s life. Melissa just had to be willing to be the kind of helper her husband needed. For more ideas on being the helper your husband needs, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

“A Change in Plans,” December 5, 2006, Online Daily Devotion

What a Husband Needs from His Wife; by Melanie Chitwood

Capture His Heart; by Lysa TerKeurst

A New Attitude

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

Being a Christian doesn’t mean you won’t face difficult circumstances; it just means you can face them with a new attitude. Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries.

My pastor recently said that he sometimes only feels as good as his last sermon. I can identify because sometimes I feel only as good as my last interaction with a loved one.

For example, my husband recently asked me where his passport was and when I couldn’t find it, I suddenly felt like an untrustworthy wife. Normally, my reaction would include frustration, short-temperedness, and beating myself up while tearing the house apart, but God’s Spirit prompted me to ask my husband to pray with me about the passport instead. Immediately, I went from feeling like a failure to a wife who faces hardships in a godly way.

To find out more about how God can help you handle life’s troubles with a new attitude, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

Brain Blips, Mishaps, and Feelings of Failure; Proverbs 31 Daily Devotion (April 2007 devo)

Good To Me, by LaTonya Mason

Soul Tattoo

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

As a sign of her undying love, a celebrity tattooed her boyfriend’s name on her arm. Her devotion was “permanent”- until they broke up. Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. After the break up the boyfriend’s name was removed and another one put in its place. So much for everlasting love!

The world is full of unfaithfulness and rejection. When people turn on us we wonder how something that seemed so true became such a lie.

Yet at the lowest moment in our pain, God’s truth can speak hope to our heart. He promises He’ll never leave us. To prove His faithfulness, the Bible says He engraved our names on the palm of His hands. He didn’t use a tattoo needle. It’s a deep scar from nails that pierced His hands just for you and me. No matter what kind of rejection we’re facing today, let’s remember God will never leave us. He’s committed for life! For more encouragement visit proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:
Who Holds the Key to Your Heart?; by Lysa TerKeurst

“The Marks of Love,” October 3, 2006, Online Daily Devotion

Spiritual Priorities for Your Graduate

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Amanda Waldrop

As my sons move into adulthood, I want to give them God’s perspective on success. Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries.

Most of us know that an education isn’t enough anymore. At least one college degree is required for most entry-level positions. Add today’s standard of living, retirement plans, insurance, and we have a generation struggling to heed Jesus’ words: “You can’t serve both God and money.”

The authors of The Pocket Guide for Parents suggest we sit down with our children as they’re getting ready to graduate high school to talk about what it means to put the kingdom of God first in our lives.

We might want to discuss things with them like:
- What’s the right occupation considering their unique makeup?
- How much time should be devoted to work?
- Can you make too much money?

And, we can talk with them about living modestly so they can give to others generously. For more parenting ideas, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:
The Pocket Guide for Parents: Raising Godly Kids; by Multiple Authors

Fears Of A Mom, June 30, 2006, Online Devotion

Share Your Life

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Sharon Hodde

Now that you're married, you never have any problems, never feel lonely, and your husband fulfills your every heart's desire...right?? Hi, I'm Renee Swope with Proverbs 31 Ministries, and you're probably wondering who on earth would believe such a thing! However, there are a lot of young women today who have those expectations of marriage. They’re anxiously awaiting Prince Charming to sweep them off their feet and throw all their cares away. Sadly, this can lead to unrealistic expectations and troubled marriages. So how can you help the next generation of wives prepare for the realities of marriage? A great way to start is to simply be a friend. There are plenty of young women in your workplace, community or church who would love to have an older female friend who’ll share her life-experience and wisdom. God’s taught you specific lessons that He doesn't want you to keep to yourself, so share them! Imagine the difference you’ll make! To learn more about being a great friend, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:
The Perfume of Friendship Devotion by Susanne Scheppmann

Scriptural Prayers for Friendship – Please call 877-P31-HOME for a List

Traveling Together, by Karla Worley

Saying Nothing Can Speak Volumes

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

Have you ever struggled to find the right words when a friend is going through hard circumstances? Hi I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Recently a friend of mine was going through a very difficult time. I felt a lot of pressure to think of just the right advice to give to make her feel better. Surely there was a perfect Bible verse that would shed light on this situation and give her a new perspective. But the reality was, only God could heal her hurt during this time. As I prayed about it, I felt God impressing on my heart to simply cry with her and say very little. So I drove to her house, sat beside her and did just that. I said very little but assured her that no matter what happened, I would be there for her and I would love her. Honestly, I think that’s exactly what she needed. If you are in a place where you could use a little encouragement today, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at www.Proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

“Encouragement for Today,” Online Daily Devotionals

Six Habits of Highly Effective Christians, Brian T. Anderson & Glynnis Whitwer

Menu Planning

Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Glynnis Whitwer

Do you stare at the fridge every night wondering, “What am I gonna make for dinner?” Hi, I’m Renee Swope with Proverbs 31 Ministries. I try to create a menu plan each week. On Sundays, I write each day of the week on a piece of paper. Then I list our family activities for each night. Monday night my husband works late so we have leftovers. Tuesday is soccer practice at 7, so that is a good night for something quick, like a crock-pot meal. Friday night is family night so I plan something special. To help me find ideas, I started going online for new recipes. Another way to make it easier is to cook once for two meals. Bake a chicken on Sunday – and use the leftovers for chicken tacos on Tuesday. My family also loves for me to post our menu on the refrigerator so they can look forward to the delicious dinners, and it helps me remember what my plan is for that evening, in case I’m running late. Our P31 Woman monthly magazine is full of great recipes for your family. To find out more visit our web site at proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

P31 Woman Magazine

ETC September 2005: Meal Swapping ~ Simplify Your Dinnertime Dilemma

Food that Says Welcome, by Barbara Smith

Treasuring Your Friends

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

Life is busy! Between the laundry, grocery shopping, cooking, errands, and taking care of my family it can be hard to find time for my friends. Hi I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. I also know that life without friends is like trying to breath without oxygen. God designed us to have relationships with others who will love, challenge, encourage, and understand us. Here are some ideas for treasuring your friendships today:

Take time to write a short handwritten note just to say you love her. In this day of e-mail a real letter is a treasure.

Be on the lookout for a little gift of encouragement for her. Just something small can speak volumes of love.

Offer to run an errand for her. If you’re heading to the grocery, call and ask if there are a couple of things you could pick up for her that would make her day a little easier.

Friends are treasures so take a little time to treasure your friends today! And be sure to visit us at Proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

The Perfume of Friendship Devotion by Susanne Scheppmann

Traveling Together, by Karla Worley

Fear

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Glynnis Whitwer

Have you ever been so afraid that you literally felt paralyzed by your fear? Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. We’re all afraid of something. It might be public speaking or high places. But, I think we’ve all been afraid of being found out when we’ve done something wrong. The story of Adam and Eve in the Bible is a good example. When they did exactly what God had told them not to, they were so afraid that they hid from God. You and I can often do this as well. When we make wrong choices or think terrible thoughts, we can shrink back from others, and from God, in fear – afraid that they’ll learn the truth about us and reject us. Fortunately, God already knows every wrong choice you’ve ever made and every terrible thought you’ve ever had. And, He STILL loves you very much! Don’t let fear keep you from experiencing a real relationship with Jesus! To know more about this, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:
Who Holds the Key to Your Heart, by Lysa TerKeurst

“The Stronghold of Fear,” by Lysa TerKeurst - April 18, 2005 Devotion

Facing the Hard Times

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

Have you ever faced a time when even the effort to breath seemed too much? Hi, I'm Lysa TerKeurst with Proverbs 31 Ministries. I’ve experienced many times of deep heartache and soul searching - times when I even questioned God. Sometimes God answered my questions - others times He seemed silent. These were some of my darkest days. Now looking back though, I’m actually able to thank God for these hard times. I see how His silence taught me to wait on His timing. My pain drew me closer to God for comfort and I came to know Him more intimately. God tells us in the Bible that His ways are not our ways and His thoughts are not our thoughts. Whether you are struggling through financial loss, sickness or the death of a loved one, I encourage you to trust God in the hard times and rest in the promise that as you draw closer to Him, He will draw closer to you! For more spiritual encouragement visit Proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

Seeing God in All Things Devotion by Melissa Taylor

Get Over It and On With It, by Michelle McKinney Hammond

Getting Over the Blues, by Leslie Vernick

Appreciating Your Husband

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

Are you thankful for your husband? If so, does he know it? Hi, I’m Renee Swope with Proverbs 31 Ministries. Appreciation is one of a man’s greatest needs. Our husbands need to know we appreciate that they provide for us and we don’t take for granted their hard work each day! And they need to hear us say it, over and over. A man who feels unappreciated is kind of like a balloon without air! As his wife, you can help “fill his balloon” with your words of appreciation!

Here are three ways to show your husband gratitude: First, ask God to show you one thing each day that your husband did for you, or your family. Second, be sure to tell your husband specifically what you’re thankful for when he comes home, or as you go to bed that night. Third, if you have children, express your appreciation in front of them - and encourage them to thank their dad, too! Proverbs 31 Ministries is here to cheer you on in your role as a wife. For more ideas, visit us at proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

Wild at Heart, by John Eldredge

"He Knows the Plan" by Renee Swope, June 20, 2005 Devotion

Your Child’s Faith

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Amanda Waldroop

Are you worried because one of your kids still doesn’t have a relationship with Jesus? Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. You spend your life taking your children to church. You read Bible stories. You may even send them to Christian schools – all to help them learn to know Jesus personally – and still, some of them might refuse to believe. It can break your heart to see one of your children run from the God who desperately loves them.

So, how can you find peace when this happens? The Bible says, “Train a child in the way he should go, and when he’s old he won’t turn from it.” I know what you’re thinking, “I’ve DONE that and my child is STILL rebelling!” Oh, my friend, don’t give up… KEEP PRAYING! I’ve seen many rebellious kids who were brought up knowing the Bible return to it as they’ve gotten older. Your prayers are essential in making this happen. For more ideas on planting God’s words in your child’s heart, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

Mining For Gold in the Heart of Your Child (character chart) by Renee Swope

Mining For Gold in the Heart of Your Child,(tape or CD) by Renee Swope

"Witness the Work of God to your Children" by Glynnis Whitwer June 8, 2005

Come Here and Listen

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

“Come here mommy!” My son took my hand and pulled me away. Hi, I’m Renee Swope with Proverbs 31 Ministries. Joshua’s, attempts at getting my attention reminded me of a place in the Bible where God says, “Come here and listen to me! I’ll pour out the spirit of wisdom on you and make you wise.” Just like Joshua, God wants my full attention! He calls me away from distractions to listen to Him. Often I get too busy to stop and listen to God. But without His wisdom, I become paralyzed by indecision and I find myself turning to friends, family, and books for direction. Of course, these are all good resources, but none of them can actually make me wise like God can.

Could you use some wisdom? Is God saying to you, “Come here and listen to me”? The Bible is where you’ll find His wisdom. And, a great place to start is the book of Proverbs. It has 31 chapters – one for each day of the month! For more ideas, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:
"Living in the Hear and Now" - Part 1 by Renee Swope, September 14, 2005 Devotion

Breathe, by Keri Wyatt Kent

Loving Your Unbelieving Husband

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Amanda Waldroop

Are you a Christian woman married to a non-Christian man? Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Many women start a relationship with Jesus after they’re married and are discouraged when they share their faith with their spouse only to discover he doesn’t find it quite as exciting as they do. So how do you deal with this situation?

The Bible tells us how to interact with a husband who’s not a Christian. It says, “Wives, in the same way, be submissive to your husbands so that, if any of them don’t believe, they may be won over without words, by the behavior of their wives.”

Loving and respecting a man who doesn’t believe the same way you do can be difficult and frightening. But the Bible says to do what’s right and to not give in to fear. God promises to protect the believing spouse. So, live a godly life in front of your husband and turn to Jesus for help when things get tough. For more ways to love your husband, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:
"ATTENTION: Helpers Needed!" by Sharon Jaynes, April 28, 2005 Devotion

Capture His Heart, by Lysa TerKeurst

What Every Husband Needs, by Melanie Chitwood

Up Close and Personal

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

I couldn’t believe it! Someone from the neighborhood architectural committee had left a note saying: “Your window sills and front porch need to be painted.” Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries.

First, I was embarrassed! Someone noticed our paint was peeling. Then I was offended! How could they see our windowsills, or front porch, unless they came up close? From a distance, the trim looked fine to me! But, weeks later my husband and I were on ladders - scraping paint. It was in worse condition than we realized. And, if we hadn’t done the repairs, the wood could have rotted. Suddenly, I felt thankful that someone cared enough to look close and tell us we needed some repairs. From a distance you and I probably look like we’re in pretty good condition, too. So we need people in our lives that are willing to come up close, and tell us if they see things in need of repair. Proverbs 31 Ministries wants to help you build friendships based on honesty and trust, so visit Proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

P31 Woman Magazine

"The Shame of It All" by Wendy Pope, June 21, 2005 Devotion