Fear Not

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writers: Micca Campbell and Amanda Waldroop

Did you know that the phrase, “fear not,” is in the Bible 365 times? That’s one for every day of the year! Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries.

One day Johnny was helping his mom make dinner. She asked him to get a can of soup from the pantry, but he was scared. “It’s dark in there,” he cried. His mother said, “Its okay. Jesus will be in there with you.” Johnny walked hesitantly to the door and opened it. He peeked inside, saw it was dark, and said, “Jesus, if you’re in there, would you hand me a can of soup?”

Maybe the next time we’re frightened, we need to remember Jesus really is with us; that He wants to give us what we need and help us face our fears. Jesus promised to never leave us so let’s face our fears with courage today as we cling to one of those “fear not’s” from the Bible. To learn more about trusting God visit Proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

“No Need to Fear,” January 3, 1007, Online Daily Devotion

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

God Is Faithful

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

If I really believe God is faithful and trustworthy, why do I sometimes doubt Him? Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. The Bible says God is faithful beyond our imagination. But, I start to doubt Him when He isn’t faithful on MY terms. I want God to act according to my requests, my standards, and my time frame.

But is God a genie in a bottle? Can I rub a magic lamp and call out my wishes demanding He bring instant results? Sometimes I’d like for that to be the case. How about you? Have you ever said in frustration, “I cried out to God last night and He didn’t help me?”

When things don’t turn out the way we’d like we can be tempted to doubt God’s faithfulness. But, we need to remember that God’s help always comes. However, instead of always getting what we want He will give us exactly what we need.

For more encouragement visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

“Old Faithful”,January 15, 2007, Online Devotion

Getting Over The Blues, by Leslie Vernick

Short-Cuts

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

Why’s traffic moving so slowly? I need to find a short cut! Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. My turn lane was backed up for a mile! So, I decided to take a short cut. However, when I went down a different street, I discovered traffic on that road was backed up too and I had to wait even longer! How frustrating!

Have you ever felt like God was moving so slowly that you needed to look for a short cut around His delays? Maybe you’ve asked Him to make your husband a Godly man, but your husband doesn’t even want to go to church. Or maybe you’ve prayed for a husband, and God hasn’t made progress in years. So you started looking for a short cut to Mr. Right! One thing I remembered that day is that my short cuts often cause longer delays! I need to trust God’s timing and His plans. You know, there’s one short cut I can recommend –a short cut to encouragement at Proverbs 31 Ministries. We’re just a click away at Proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

What Happens When Women Walk in Faith, by Lysa TerKeurst

Life’s a Beach!

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

I’m hot. I’m thirsty. Can’t we just go home? Hi I’m Lysa TerKeurst with Proverbs 31 Ministries. Just listening to my kid’s comments, you would have thought we were in a work camp digging ditches somewhere. The reality was we were on vacation at the Beach! Oh, how their complaining got on my nerves. But instead of giving into my frustration I decided to point out to my kids that everything in life has good parts and bad parts. Yes, it was hot and being sandy can get uncomfortable but instead of putting our focus there, why not focus on the beauty of the beach, the amazing sound of the ocean, and how fun riding the waves can be. Before long, we were laughing and playing again. Everything in life has its ups and downs. It’s up to us where we focus our attention and that will determine whether we’re down in the dumps or living large and laughing. For more life encouragement visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at Proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

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

5 Fun Summer Activites for Families, June 2005 ETC

Living Life on Purpose by Lysa TerKeurst

Heavy Suitcases of Expectations

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

Did you bring any baggage into your marriage? Hi, I’m Renee Swope with Proverbs 31 Ministries. Most of us enter marriage with a long list of expectations. Imagine if each of our expectations was a suitcase. There’s one suitcase labeled “make me happy.” Another called “do things my way.” And another labeled “be romantic.”

Some expectations are met, but many aren’t. And we end up feeling disappointed. What we anticipated as a lifetime journey hardly gets started because we’re worn out from unpacking! So what do we do with this load? We need to let go of it for good! In the Bible, Jesus invites us to give him our heavy loads. He says, “Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-burdened, and I will give you rest.” Jesus invites us to put down our suitcases, and pick up only the load He gives us. As we do this, our marriages will become a blessing instead of a burden and we’ll discover the joy, peace, and intimacy God planned for marriage. For more encouragement, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at Proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:
Crazy Little Thing Called Love, by Art and Lysa TerKeurst

What Every Husband Needs, by Melanie Chitwood

Motherhood: A Matter of Choice

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

The other day I decided to really make my kids happy and take them to an amusement park…a kid’s greatest joy and potentially a mother’s worst nightmare. Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst with Proverbs 31 Ministries. I walked into the park and it was more packed than I’d ever seen it. The sun was beating down, the lines were really long, and the cost of refreshments was outrageous. I prayed, Lord, please give me the strength today to keep a good attitude and make this a fun and memorable day for my kids. And do you know that God answered my prayer…I really enjoyed myself. I’m convinced being the kind of mom that God wants us to be… a mom of joy, peace, patience and wisdom is a matter of choice not chance. Ask God to help you choose to be a great mom to your kids and He will honor your prayers! For more perspective changing motherhood advice visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at Proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:
The Mommy Manual, by Barbara Curtis

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

Lord, What Should I Do?

By Micca Campbell

“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” Colossians 3: 15-17(NIV)

Devotion:
Let’s be honest. When it comes to making decisions, we tend to base them on our emotions and our thoughts. This is what I call using our “feelers” and “thinkers.” You’ve done it. I’ve done it. Haven’t we all said something such as, I’m just not “feeling” it, so I’m not going to send my kid to that school. Or what about, I ” think” it’s the right thing to do.

I’m not saying that emotions and thoughts are entirely wrong; they’re just not entirely reliable. However, the principles of God are. So we need to trade in our indicators for God’s indicators. In today’s key verse, God lays out a map that will help us make good decisions based on His reliable principles.

First, our key verse tells us to let the word of Christ dwell in us. The truth of God is whatever God is saying to you. When you hide God’s Word in your heart, the Holy Spirit will use it to guide you in decision making. So before you decide who to date, what to do for a living, or which house to buy, listen to what God says first. Then compare what you think is right to what God says is right in His Word. The proverbs warn us that “there is a way that seems right to man [and woman] but the end is death” (Proverbs 14:12, NIV). God’s way always leads to a good decision and a great life.

Second, we’re told to let the peace of Christ rule or reign in our hearts. The Greek word for rule is the word we would use for referee. A referee is someone who wears a whistle. If the ball is about to go out of bounds, the referee blows the whistle. You and I have a heavenly referee, the Holy Spirit, who gives us a great deal of freedom to live our lives. The Christian life is not a restricted journey. We are free to live and move and make choices. Although, when we are about to step out of bounds, the Holy Spirit blows his whistle as a warning. That warning comes often in the form of a lack of peace.

Finally, today’s verses tell us that whatever we do, to do it in the name of the Lord. If I can’t take the name of Jesus and stamp it on what I’m about to do, say, or where I am about to go without embarrassment or apology, then its best to back off. It’s not worth it, whatever it is. If you and I have the nature of Christ living in us then it doesn’t make sense for either of us to do something that isn’t consistent with His nature. So, if we can’t stamp His name all over the decision we’re about to make, then we should not do it.

Some of us today have families in trouble, and we’re trying to figure out which way to go. Others may be struggling emotionally or with financial decisions. There are those who are facing their career ahead, and others who are facing their retirement. Decisions need to be made. Yes, you have feelings and thoughts about these situations. They are not entirely wrong; they’re just not entirely trustworthy. Only the principles of God are entirely dependable. So take God’s map and let the spirit of God walk you through it. He’ll lead you in the way you should go.

Dear Lord, I don’t want to do anything that I can’t put Your name on. Thank You for providing a way for me to make good decisions while glorifying Your name. As I meditate on Your Word, speak to my heart and guide me with Your peace. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
Listen to Today's Radio Show

Application Steps:
Begin studying and meditating on God’s Word today so that He can speak to your heart about any situation you face. Remember to compare what you think to what God says. Wait for peace, and be sure that you can stamp His name on it. If you can, then go for it!

Reflections:
What is you method for decision making? How has your method been a benefit to you?

How will following God’s principles for decision making benefit your life?

Who do you think is wiser when it come to the decisions you need to make in life: you or God?

Power Verses:
Psalm 32:8, “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you.” (NIV)

John 16:13, “But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come.” (NIV)

Isaiah 58:11, “The Lord will guide you always; he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame. You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail.” (NIV)

Luke 1:79, “to shine on those living in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the path of peace." (NIV)

Hold Me Daddy

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

Tears were streaming down my face. I couldn’t hide the pain any longer. Hi, I’m Renee Swope with Proverbs 31 Ministries. One Sunday I found myself sobbing during church. I’d been struggling with hurts that I’d kept bottled up inside and now I was struggling to hold it together in front of the people around me. I thought the songs would distract me, but they only melted the walls around my heart, so I closed my eyes. And in that secret place with no one else in view, I sensed God’s presence in a powerful way.

Like a little girl standing at her father’s knees I felt my arms go up as if to say, “Hold me Daddy.” That’s what I needed – to come to my Father, God, and let Him know that my heart hurt. It was a risk because others could see me. But it didn’t matter anymore. I needed to be held. Maybe that’s what you need. God is waiting to hold you with His love and help you through the pain! For more encouragement, visit proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

Tips for A Strong Willed Child, February 2005 ETC

Discipline That Child

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

Have you ever seen a child acting up so badly that you almost felt compelled to step in? Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. A few days ago I was getting off an airplane when a three year old threw himself on the aisle floor and refused to move. The Dad begged the child to move but it was no use. Red faced with humiliation, the father somehow managed to hoist the screaming boy under his package filled arms and wobble off the plane. I desperately wanted to tell that Dad what a wise woman once said when one of my kids acted this way, “Your child’s foolishness is not your fault. But it is your responsibility to correct it when it occurs.” Discipline was not only what this testy toddler needed, but also what he wanted. It does a lot for a child’s security for the parent to be the parent. For more thoughts on the important job of raising kids, visit Proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:
Don’t Make Me Count to Three, by Ginger Plowman

Being Available

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

Do your husband’s requests for your time and attention feel like invitations or interruptions? Hi, I’m Renee Swope with Proverbs 31 Ministries. When you were dating your husband, did you drop everything if he called spontaneously and wanted to have dinner together? What’s your response now that you’re married?

Here are some scenarios: You finally have time to work on your scrapbook, but your husband wants to go for a walk. Your husband’s watching football. You see it as a great time to run errands, but you know he’d love you to watch the game with him.

Being available tells our husbands we value them. Here are 3 ways to show your husband you want to spend time with him! Plan a date and tell him whatever he wants to do is great with you. Schedule time for your hobbies or errands when he’s at work or when he’s spending time with the kids. When he asks you to do something with him, respond with an enthusiastic, “That’s a great idea!” For more suggestions on how to love your husband, log on to Proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

What Every Husband Needs, by Melanie Chitwood

"Love the Ones You're With" by Renee Swope August 11, 2005 Devotion

Tub Time

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

Ahh, there’s nothing like a relaxing bath to get away from the stress of the day. Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. At the end of the day when my head’s clouded from to-do lists I let the scented bubbles wash away the worries. As I soak I often think back on my day. Though I might have burned dinner, got frustrated with one of my kids or forgot to return a phone call, bath time always helps me reflect on this important thought: this life I am living is a privilege. I want my attitude to reflect that.

If someone observed me today would they say, “Now there goes a woman who really appreciates all she’s been given.” Or would they possibly say, “That woman is so stressed out by what God’s given her, she doesn’t even see her blessings.” So, I soak and reflect and let these questions challenge me. To find out more about keeping God’s perspective on life, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at proverbs31.org.

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

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

Purposeful Living, January 2005 ETC

Loving Discipline

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope

How do I balance between loving my child and disciplining him? Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. The Bible says that you are loving your child when you discipline him. The key is to correct your child lovingly. One mom shares from a child’s perspective what every parent needs to know.

· I need to know the difference between right and wrong so please correct me when I do something wrong and tell me what I could have done differently.
· If you are angry with me today, please don’t be mad at me tomorrow.
· If I’m misbehaving and you’re going to punish me, please take me to a room where there is privacy.
· Please treat me with respect, especially if my friends are around.
· I hear you say you love me, but what speaks the loudest is the way you treat me when no one else is around.

These are just a few ways you can speak love loud and clear to your kids even while you correct them. For more parenting ideas visit Proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:
Don’t Make Me Count to Three, by Ginger Plowman

Tips for A Strong Willed Child, February 2005 ETC

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

Get a Face Lift

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

Has the wear and tear of life left you looking and feeling much older than you are? Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. One morning, after arguing with my husband, I caught a glimpse of my droopy, sour expression in the bathroom mirror and thought to myself “I need a face lift!”

While some women opt for plastic surgery or botox to combat problem areas, there is another remedy for us to consider when we’re feeling old and ugly. The Bible says God can satisfy our desires with good things so that our youth is renewed. A bad attitude on the inside will show itself on the outside, so getting a true face lift has to start in the heart. A heart lift happens when we spend time with God every day praying and reading the Bible. This strengthens the youthful spirit inside us, created to delight in the gifts God has given us. And, I know feeling better on the inside will help us look better on the outside! For more encouragement, visit us at proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

Who Holds the Key to Your Heart, by Lysa TerKeurst

Helpful Hints for Enriched Bible Study, September 2005 2005 ETC

Accepting Your Child’s Personality

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope

Mom, I don’t want to go, I just want to stay home! Hi, I’m Renee Swope with Proverbs 31 Ministries. Do you sometimes have to coerce your child into going to a family gathering or birthday party? Sure, he could be acting stubborn. But, what if he really doesn’t like crowds? The truth is your son may prefer quiet activities over ones with lots of noise and lots of people. God created each of our children with certain personalities that determine where they feel most comfortable. Some children love parties because they love friends and fun. Others enjoy games because they love competition. And lots of kids are more comfortable at home in their own space, where it’s quiet. Rest assured there’s nothing wrong with a child who chooses solitude. Sure, our introverted kids need to learn how to socialize but they also need quiet times at home. As moms, it’s important that we understand our children’s unique personalities. For more ideas to help you understand the unique children God has given you, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

Your Child's Personality, May 2005 ETC

Personality Plus for Parents, by Florence Littauer

A Casserole-type Family

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

Chicken, noodles, carrots, some seasonings, cheese and – Voila! – Dinner is served! Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. When my family’s schedule is extra busy, I’m thankful for casseroles. They save a lot of time and, you know, when I think about, my family is a lot like a casserole.

The seven individual personalities in my home are an interesting mix of colors, shapes, and flavors – kind of like a casserole! Each one of us looks and acts differently from the other. Occasionally, my “mother knows best” attitude makes me want to clone them all into “little Lysa’s”. But then I’m reminded that God created each of these precious people differently because, mixed together, we’re delightful! To change one of us would ruin the flavor of our family.

Do personality struggles drive you crazy and make you want to change some of your family members? Well, to learn more about how to enjoy each other’s differences visit us at proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:
Personality Plus, by Florence Littauer

Your Child's Personality, May 2005 ETC

Because We're His Children

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Jill Tracey

The diapers, the feedings, the laundry! Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. A friend of mine recently had her first child and says absolutely nothing could’ve prepared her for how hard it would be to transition from a career to caring for a little person who can’t do anything for herself. But, as my friend cares for her baby she’s also learning a lot about God’s love. Having to feed, bathe, and change her daughter reminds her that we’re as dependent on God as a baby on her parents.

Everyday God provides food, shelter, clothing, and everything we need. He also cleans up our messes. And, too often, He does it all without even a “thank you” from us. My friend says that gazing at her newborn helps her understand just a little bit about why God would do all of this for us when most of the time we just cry out for more. The Father of the universe has an amazing love for you and me, simply because we’re His children! For more encouragement, visit proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

Jehovah-Jireh Part 1 by Susanne Scheppmann, March 17, 2006 Devotion

Do You Know Him?

Lost on the Trail

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Amanda Waldroop

Do you ever feel like you’ve lost your way when it comes to following Jesus? Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. A friend was hiking recently when she came to a split in the trail. She couldn’t remember which way to go and ended up choosing the wrong road. After about 20 minutes, she realized she’d chosen a path that could lead her face to face with a hungry grizzly bear. So, she immediately turned around and retraced her steps.

Life is like that isn’t it? Sometimes we know the correct path to take, and take it. But sometimes the trails are unfamiliar and we have to guess. And still other times we know which path to follow but deliberately choose the wrong one. God’s Spirit acts as an internal radar that helps us choose the right paths in life and detects dangers along the way when we don’t. It also helps us have the wisdom to turn around immediately once we realize our mistakes. Are you living a life guided by God’s Holy Spirit? To find out how, visit proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:
What Happens when Women Walk in Faith, by Lysa TerKeurst

Knowing God by Micca Campbell, August 12, 2005, Devotion

You’ve Got a Friend!

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Jill Tracey

Remember, no matter what, you’ve got a friend! Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. My friend, Jill, was recently traveling with her three-month-old when she got a reminder of God’s faithful friendship. Checking on her baby napping in the Pack and Play, Jill noticed Alyssa’s eyes were open and trouble was brewing! The look on Alyssa’s face said she didn’t know where she was or what was going on and that a huge cry was about to erupt. But then Alyssa saw one of her favorite stuffed bears and all of a sudden something clicked inside her little mind that said, “There’s my faithful friend!” Her frown became a big, toothless smile. It reminded Jill that in tough times when we feel like we don’t know where we are or what’s going on, we can look for a glimpse of God, our faithful friend, who’s waiting to turn our frown into a smile and help us through our struggle. If you’d like to develop a friendship with God visit proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:
Show me the Way, by Gwen Smith (CD)

A Cool Conversation with God, by Melissa Taylor, July 14, 2005 Devotion

Your Rebellious Child

Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writers: Renee Swope and Micca Campbell

Have your plans for your child’s life turned out the way you’d hoped they would? Hi, I’m Renee Swope with Proverbs 31 Ministries. Recently, my friend Micca’s plans for her son crumbled. At eighteen, he rebelled against his parents and God.
Micca’s first reaction was grief. She blamed herself. Then sorrow turned to anger. She was mad at her son for rejecting God. Then she panicked. Micca was determined to change her son, so she confronted every rebellious attitude with disapproval. That only made him angrier and more rebellious. Micca asked God for direction and was reminded that He knows how it feels to be rejected by His children. But, God also allowed His son to die for us even as we rebelled against Him. We still face the consequences of our bad choices, but God never stops loving us. So, Micca has decided to show love to her son no matter what because of what Jesus has done for her. For more of Micca’s story and ideas on how to love your rebellious child, visit proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:
My Most Precious Treasure by Micca Campbell, November 18, 2004 Devotion

The Mommy Manual by Barbara Curtis

Proximity

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Amanda Waldroop

Would you like to feel close to God? Hi I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. A friend of mine attends a church called Proximity. When explaining the name, she refers to a place in the Bible that says, “But now in Christ Jesus you who were once far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.”

There’s no other way to live in close proximity to God except by Jesus’ death and resurrection. He willingly died, shedding innocent blood, so we could have forgiveness from the imperfections that separate us from a perfect God. After His death, Christ was brought back to life. His resurrection means we can have a new life as well.

In the Bible King David says, “But as for me, it is good to be near God.” Have you, like David, acknowledged that closeness to God is good and necessary for experiencing new life? To find out more, click on “Do You Know Him?” at proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:
Breathe, by Keri Wyatt Kent

Do You Know Him?