Friday, August 31, 2007
Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurstContributing Writer: Jill Tracey
When it comes to conflict, the “I’s” have it! Hi, I’m Renee Swope/Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. When you’re arguing with your spouse or one of your children do you use “I” statements or “you” statements? I find it much easier to say things like, “You’re not listening to me”, “It’s YOUR fault!” But, those statements don’t get our relationship very far. So, I’ve been trying to focus on myself during a conflict. Although it takes more effort to say things like, “Maybe I’m not being clear”, “What have I done to upset you?” …in the end we usually clear up our disagreement faster without resorting to yelling at each other. So, it’s really our choice…the “I” statements or the “you” statements. But, when it comes to what’s positive and healthy for our relationships with our loved ones, the “I’s” win it every time! For more encouragement, visit proverbs31.org.
Related Resources:
30 Days To Taming Your Tongue, by Deborah Smith Pegues
Addicted To Self, March 15, 2007,Online Devotion
God’s Purpose for Every Woman Devotional Book,
Edited by Lysa TerKeurst and Rachel Olsen
Thursday, August 30, 2007
Radio Hostess: Renee SwopeContributing Writer: Mary Beth Seal and Amanda Waldroop
When your husband faces difficult times, Tammy Wynette said it best: stand by your man. Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Though our husbands may come across like they’re strong and resilient to life’s difficulties, they’re just as human as we are. They have feelings and emotions and experiences struggles that may shake them to the core. When this happens, our best bet really is to stand by our men!
We can stand firm in our emotions when theirs are being strained. Though they may experience anger, depression, or anxiety we can choose not to take their bad moods personally.
We can also stand firm in our faith because God is ultimately in control and will provide what we need – even when our husbands can’t.
And, we can stand firm in our marriage vows by assuring our husbands that we will stand by them through any struggle.
For more encouragement to help you to stand by your man, visit Proverbs31.org.
Related Resources:
“Stand By Your Man,” June 5, 2006, Online Daily Devotions
What a Husband Needs from His Wife; by Melanie Chitwood
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurstContributing Writer: Amanda Waldrop
If your kids are grown you might feel like nobody needs you anymore, but you’re wrong!! I need you! And, my friends need you. Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. With families splitting apart, job changes, and women living away from extended family members, many women lack the proper knowledge to carry out tasks that were once so naturally passed down from mothers and grandmothers.
So what can you do? My friends and I would love for you to come alongside us and offer help and wisdom you’ve gained through life’s journey. Don’t feel intimated by feeling insecure or inadequate. Remember God isn’t looking for perfect people to serve Him, He’s simply looking for someone who will say yes. When you step out and help a young woman in need not only will she be encouraged but I bet you’ll find you are also wonderfully blessed. To learn more about mentoring, log on to proverbs31.org.
Related Resources:
Mentoring: Moments or Meetings?, Free Devotion by Renee Swope
Finding a Mentor, Being a Mentor by Donna Otto
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
Radio Hostess: Renee SwopeContributing Writer: Micca Campbell and Renee Swope
God promises to bring good out of our bad situations. Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Several years ago, a spider bit my friend’s neighbor, causing her to lose most of her vision. Her first question was, “Why God?”
Her husband, who wasn’t a Christian, encouraged her not to sink into depression. His confidence surprised her, so she decided to trust God.
Soon after, the church she worked for terminated her job. Heartbroken, she looked for a new church. She noticed that not being on staff at church allowed her to enjoy the service more. One Sunday, her husband said he wanted to go to church with her. That day he gave his life to Christ. After battling the “why God?” syndrome, she realized God’s plan for good during her struggle – and it far outweighed the bad!
If the “why-God” syndrome plagues you, remember God always has a way of bringing the best from the bad things in life! You can trust Him for good things to come. For more encouragement, visit proverbs31.org.
Related Resources:
“Expressions of Joy,” February 16, 2006, Online Daily Devotion
Reinventing Your Rainbow, by Tracie Miles
Monday, August 27, 2007
Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurstContributing Writer: Amanda Waldrop
Are we too grown up to live boldly for Jesus? Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. In her book, He Speaks to Me, Priscilla Shirer tells a story about a girl named Ryan. While at a speaking engagement, Priscilla noticed Ryan dancing, clapping, and singing wildly during the music. Afterward, she found out that Ryan is autistic.
Priscilla was touched by Ryan’s child-likeness. She couldn’t have cared less that her style of worship didn’t impress people. It wasn’t tainted with religious pomp or flair and she didn’t pay attention to anyone else around her – she just gave all she had to God.
Are we too refined to approach God with a childlike enthusiasm no matter what others might think? I think I sometimes fall into this category. I have to remember I’m never too old to live boldly for Jesus and to show excitement for all He’s done for me!
For more encouragement, log on to proverbs31.org.
Related Resources:
He Speaks to Me: Preparing to Hear from God, by Priscilla Shirer
God’s Abundance, July 12, 2006, Online Devotion
Friday, August 24, 2007
Radio Hostess: Renee SwopeContributing Writer: Susanne Scheppmann and Renee Swope
I have a hard time concentrating or sleeping without WHITE NOISE! Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Do you ever use white noise to block out irritating distractions? We can buy machines that play white noise as a sleeping aide or CDs that provide sounds to help us stay focused at work.
Though it can be helpful in some areas, white noise in our spiritual lives can be damaging! White noise can come from our long to-do list, people’s expectations, or simply the urge to return emails and can drown out God’s voice asking us to slow down and spend time praying or reading our Bibles so He can speak to us.
Maybe if we look for ways to create some silence in our days we’ll be able to hear God’s voice above the white NOISE! For more encouragement in listening for God’s voice each day, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at Proverbs31.org.
Related Resources:
White Noise by Susanne Scheppmann, a free Daily Devotion
Streams in the Desert: 365 Daily Devotions by L.B. Cowman, Edited by Jim Reimann
Thursday, August 23, 2007
Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurstContributing Writers: Lysa TerKeurst and Amanda Waldroop
Hey, mom! Let’s stop letting our children’s bad choices define who we are as mothers! Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Every kid falls short of perfection, so how do we stop beating ourselves up over this?
First, we can refuse to compare our kids with someone else’s. Each child is different and should be parented accordingly.
Also, when our kids mess up, we can communicate the consequences for their actions so the pressure for them to act appropriately falls on them, not on us.
Finally, when our kids sometimes act irresponsibly, we can remember that all kids do from time to time. It doesn’t mean we’re bad moms. A good mom’s job is simply to love her kids, correct them, and model godly attitudes and actions. I don’t know about you but this takes a lot of weight off MY shoulders!
For more encouragement, log on to proverbs31.org
Related Resources:
Raising Godly Kids: The Pocket Guide for Parents
Pop Goes the Weasel – free online devotion
Raising Good Kids, December 27, 2006, Online Devotion
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
Radio Hostess: Renee SwopeContributing Writer: Tracie Miles and Renee SwopeSometimes my family gets so busy we forget to take out the trash! Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. One morning we woke up to the smell of stinky trash our dog had strewn all over the kitchen. It smelled horrible! If only we hadn’t neglected that minor chore.
As I picked up the trash, I thought about other areas of my life I may be neglecting. During times when I can’t seem to keep up with everything and everybody, I can allow trash to build up in my heart – such as unforgiveness, anger, resentment, and jealousy.
Yesterday’s problems and last week’s disappointments can litter our thoughts and make a big mess. Just like my overturned wastebasket, our emotional garbage leaves a horrible odor when it spills on the people we love most. Let’s ask God to empty any trash that may be accumulating in our hearts today! For more encouragement, visit proverbs 31.org.
Related Resources
Running on Empty, by Arron Chambers“Make Rest, Not War”, August 31, 2006, Online Devotion
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurstContributing Writer: Tracie MilesThe weather this time of year can be so unpredictable – one day it’s hot, and the next day it’s cool. I wonder if God ever feels that way about me and my faith in Him. Hi I’m Lysa TerKeurst with Proverbs 31 Ministries. It seems like one day I’m all excited and on fire for God, and the next day I’m cold and bitter because circumstances in my life have changed. When my faith feels cold, is it because God’s glowing love has moved away from me, or because I’ve moved away from God? Well, God never changes, so I can be sure HE didn’t move! Instead, I’m the one who’s allowed my faith to be shaken by life’s ups and downs. Have you experienced a few cold days lately when it comes to your faith? The things that always help me find warmth again are reading the Bible and talking honestly to God in prayer.
For more encouragement on keeping your heart on fire for God, visit proverbs31.org.
Related Resources:
What Caused My Fire To Lose Its Glow, May 25, 2006, Online DevotionWomen’s Devotional Bible
God’s Purpose for Every Woman Devotional Book,
Edited by Lysa TerKeurst and Rachel Olsen
Monday, August 20, 2007
Radio Hostess: Renee SwopeContributing Writer: Tracie Miles and Renee SwopeWhen my youngest son gets mad at me, he withholds his kisses! Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Andrew usually bars me from his affection as an act of retaliation when I’ve disciplined him or said no to something he wanted. It’s one of the only ways he can retaliate without getting into trouble! As much as I want his sweet little kisses, I know he needs to learn that he can’t have everything he wants.
Recently Andrew’s retaliation made me wonder - Do I ever withhold my prayers, my gratitude, or even my affection toward God because I’m upset that things haven’t gone my way? Just as I know what’s best for my children, I’m learning to trust that my Heavenly father knows what’s best for me. To keep myself from feeling separated from HIM and missing out on HIS affection, I’m learning to spend time with God and shower my love on Him no matter how I feel about what He’s doing or not doing in my life! For more encouragement, visit proverbs31.org.
Related ResourcesWhat Happens When Women Walk In Faith, by Lysa TerkeurstGutter Free Online DevotionGod’s Purpose for Every Woman Devotional Book,
Edited by Lysa TerKeurst and Rachel Olsen
Friday, August 17, 2007
Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurstContributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst with Amanda Waldrop
Experiencing God is the most exciting part of following Christ! Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. As I’ve traveled the country speaking at conferences, people constantly tell me they want more out of the Christian life – a relationship with God where they recognize His voice and live in expectation of His activity. What I’ve discovered is this requires obedience.
God reveals Himself to all of us, but sometimes we don’t pay attention because we haven’t learned to recognize an encounter with Him. Encounters with God cause change - change in our plans, change in our perspectives, and most importantly change in us. I know, change is hard. But if we step out in obedience and embrace change, we will experience God. And honestly, there’s no greater joy!
For more, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at proverbs31.org
Related Resources:
What Happens When Women Walk in Faith by Lysa Terkeurst
“Making Prayer A Priority”, May 28, 2007, Online Daily Devotion
God’s Purpose for Every Woman Devotional Book
Thursday, August 16, 2007
Radio Hostess: Renee SwopeContributing writers: Melanie Chitwood and Renee Swope
Do you ever feel guilty when you say no? I do! Hi, I’m Renee Swope with Proverbs 31 Ministries. Have you ever agreed to do something but then later regretted your decision because you already had way too many commitments?
Sometimes we fall into the trap of thinking that being a Christian means being nice, not making waves, and saying yes to everything, even if it kills us! When we try to do it all, we get stressed out and overwhelmed and usually take it out on the ones we love most. God never intended for us to do it all. Instead, He wants our decisions to be based on His plans.
Let’s ask God to show us His priorities for our calendars. Then when we’re asked to do something, we can decide based on whether or not it’s part of God’s plans for our lives. Not only will this help us say “no” without guilt, it’ll help us say “yes” with complete confidence! For more encouragement, visit proverbs31.org.
Related Resources
Women Who Do Too Much, by Sprinkle
“The Plate Spinner”, August 3, 2006, Online Devotion
God’s Purpose for Every Woman Devotional Book
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurstContributing Writer: Amanda Waldrop
Wouldn’t it be nice if there was a never-fail instruction guide for parenting? Well, there is! Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. God has given us a blueprint in the Bible for raising the children He’s entrusted to us. But, according to the authors of The Pocket Guide for Parents, we can’t teach our kids what we haven’t learned ourselves. So, to raise godly kids, we have to become godly parents by taking hold of God’s amazing grace for ourselves and receiving His forgiveness for our mistakes. Then, as we study the Bible and apply its principles to our lives we can develop other characteristics of a godly life such as Goodness, Knowledge, Self-control, Endurance, and Love.
If we establish ourselves in the things of God as parents, I don’t think it’ll be long before we see our kids following in our footsteps.
For more encouragement, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at proverbs31.org.
Related Resources:
The Pocket Guide for Parents: Raising Godly Kids; by Multiple Authors
“Becoming A Woman Of Influence”, April 25, 2006, Online Devotion
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
Radio Hostess: Renee SwopeContributing writers: Melanie Chitwood and Renee Swope
When you walk in the door, does your house say, “Welcome Home!” or, “Whoa, what happened here!?” Hi, I’m Renee Swope with Proverbs 31 Ministries.
Taking care of our homes doesn’t mean we have to spend every minute slaving away in the kitchen. But, we can create a welcoming atmosphere for anyone who comes through our door.
Here are some practical ways to control the chaos and bring calm to our homes:
Y First, we can get rid of junk every few months by filling up a Goodwill bag with things we haven’t worn or used in a year.
Y We can get our kids involved by having them label bins for toys in their rooms or play areas.
Y Finally we can be wise with our time by limiting the hours we spend on the phone or watching TV.
Cleaning really isn’t that difficult unless we put it off until it’s a huge mess! Caring for our home will bring our families and us peace - making it our favorite place to be. For more encouragement visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at proverbs31.org.
Related Resources
Restoring Order To Your Home, by Vicki Morris
“An Atmosphere of Faith”, March 24, 2006, Online Devotion
Monday, August 13, 2007
Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurstContributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst with Amanda Waldrop
We’ve all heard of “Yes Men” but I’m really excited to be a “Yes Woman” for God! Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. The job of a woman who says “yes” to God is this: whatever God says do, do it! This is the invitation your soul is longing for. It’s an invitation to experience Him to the fullest. There’s a tug in every heart and a stirring in every soul for more, but fear can often keep us from venturing outside our comfort zone. Yet in the unknown is where we experience God’s awesomeness.
Our circumstances don't have to be perfect in order for us to be women who say yes to God. We don't have to have a perfect religious attitude or all the answers to religious questions. We simply have to be willing to let go of the excuses and fears in our hearts and give God the answer He longs to hear, "Yes, Lord." For more encouragement, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at proverbs31.org.
Related Resources:
What Happens When Women Say Yes to God; by Lysa TerKeurst
Open for Service, June 14, 2007 Online Daily Devotion
Friday, August 10, 2007
Radio Hostess: Renee SwopeContributing writers: Melanie Chitwood and Renee Swope
Would your husband say you’re COMPLETELY loyal to him? Hi, I’m Renee Swope with Proverbs 31 Ministries. The Bible says when a marriage begins a man and woman leave their fathers and mothers to be joined to each other. This means we need to be completely devoted to our husbands.
So, how do we live this out in our marriages? By letting our husbands know we choose them before any other person or activity. When our parents ask us to visit we can get into the habit of checking with our husband to make sure he doesn’t have other plans in mind. We can also limit our phone calls and visits with extended family and friends. And when we’re upset about something, we can turn to our husbands before picking up the phone to call a girlfriend.
Developing complete loyalty to our husbands pleases God and strengthens the bond we share with them as well. Proverbs 31 Ministries is here to support you in your marriage. For more encouragement, visit proverbs31.org.
Related Resources:
What A Husband Needs From His Wife, by Melanie Chitwood
“The Marriage I’ve Always Wanted”, March 16, 2007, Online Devotion
Thursday, August 09, 2007
Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurstContributing Writers: Lysa TerKeurst and Amanda Waldroop
Have you ever let someone else’s discouraging words keep you from following a dream? Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Let’s face it: We’ve all been scarred by negative comments made by people in our past. For me, it was my father rejecting me, causing me to lose hope that I would ever be lovable to any man. This insecurity put me on a destructive path of relationships and affected my marriage for years.
What negative words have people spoken to you that have crippled your hope in God’s ability to do great things through you? Don’t give up! When you’re confronted by a discourager, don’t let him or her derail you from your dream. Ask God to send people to encourage you and to offer advice as you follow the path He’s put you on.
If you need some encouragement right now, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at proverbs31.org.
Related Resources:
30 Days to Taming Your Tongue; by Deborah Smith Pegues
Get Over It and On With It, By: Michelle McKinney Hammond
“An Encouraging Word”, ETC Jan.2004
Wednesday, August 08, 2007
Radio Hostess: Renee SwopeContributing writers: Melanie Chitwood and Renee Swope
No, you can’t have more candy. No, you can’t play until you finish your homework. And, NO, you can’t stay out past midnight. Hi, I’m Renee Swope with Proverbs 31 Ministries.
If you’re a mom, it’s easy to feel like the rule-keeper who spends her day saying “no” to her kids. But, despite what the kids think, saying “no” is not a mom’s favorite thing to do!
Of course there will always be rules to follow and enforce, but let’s look for ways to say “yes” sometimes - especially when it comes to laughing and having fun with our families.
Here are a few ideas to help us say “yes” to fun and laughter in our homes:
Serve ice-cream sundaes – and only ice cream sundaes – for dinner.
Watch old family movies and giggle at how much everyone has changed.
Turn on some music and dance!
Have a family game night and play charades.
Proverbs 31 Ministries is here to help you as mom. For more ideas on having fun with your family, visit proverbs31.org.
Related Resources:
Five-Star Families: Moving Yours From Good to Great, by Carol Kuykendall“Love The Ones You’re With”, August 18, 2006, Online Devotion
Tuesday, August 07, 2007
Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurstContributing Writers: Glynnis Whitwer and Amanda Waldroop
When it comes to spending do you have a margin for financial emergencies? Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. I love a bargain, but sometimes I buy so many bargains that I can spend every last penny on stuff I don’t need. Then I don’t have anything left for the things I DO need let alone for any unforeseen emergency. Sure, I may have stocked up on turkey-themed plates for Thanksgiving next year…but I forgot to leave something to buy the milk my family needs today. Have you ever found yourself in this situation? Maybe, like me, you need to learn to spend your money within the margins by creating a budget for the things you need each month. With a little planning before our shopping trips we can make sure we have enough for our necessities, some of our wants, and we can set something aside in case of an emergency. If you’d like help creating your margins, log on to proverbs31.org.
Related Resources:
“
A $5 Wallet”, January 29, 2007 Online Devotion
Five-Star Living on a Two-Star Budget, by: Margaret Feinberg and Natalie Nichols Gillespie
Monday, August 06, 2007
Radio Hostess: Renee SwopeContributing writers: Melanie Chitwood and Renee Swope
Most Monday mornings I dread looking at my LONG to-do list! Hi, I’m Renee Swope with Proverbs 31 Ministries.
One Monday my to-do list was especially long because I’d been out of town for the weekend. My husband was home that day with his own to-do list – and I was an essential part of it. You see, he needed to take his truck in for repairs, and then needed me to take him to run his errands. What about my errands? I thought.
He was leaving the next day for a business trip and this was his only chance to get some things done. So, I said a quick prayer for God to change my heart and help me be a giver rather than a taker.
Marriage gives us lots of opportunities to be selfless instead of selfish. When facing this choice we can ask God to give us His heart, so we can be the helpers our husbands need. Proverbs 31 Ministries wants to cheer you on in your marriage, so visit Proverbs31.org.
Related Resources:
What A Husband Needs From His Wife, by Melanie Chitwood
“The Marriage I’ve Always Wanted”, March 16, 2007, Online Devotion
Friday, August 03, 2007
Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurstContributing Writers: Lysa TerKeurst and Amanda Waldroop
Being a single mom is the hardest job in the world! Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. My friend Cindy grew up without a father. Her mom filled the roles of breadwinner, mechanic, doctor, cook, and everything else. If you’re in Cindy’s mom’s shoes you know the difficulties of being a single parent.
Perhaps you battle with depression or anxiety. Perhaps you cry when your children aren’t looking because of financial burdens or lack of companionship. Cindy told me her mom dealt with all of this and more. But she trusted God to give her the ability to care for her family. She prayed with her children every night and loved them as best as she could even when times got tough. In fact, Cindy says watching her mother’s sacrifices helped her to learn to trust God with her life. So, if you’re a single mom, hang in there. You ARE making a difference. And, if you could use some extra encouragement for your extraordinary job visit proverbs31.org.
Related Resources:The Single Mom Praised; Proverbs 31 Daily Devotion 1/11/07
Thursday, August 02, 2007
Radio Hostess: Renee SwopeContributing writers: Melanie Chitwood and Renee Swope
Recently, I was talking to my husband and no matter how hard I tried to explain myself he just didn’t understand me! Hi, I’m Renee Swope with Proverbs 31 Ministries.
Do you ever feel like you just want to be understood? Maybe a friend has hurt your feelings and you want somebody to know how you feel. Or maybe you and your husband have been fighting constantly without resolving anything, and you need someone to talk to.
Well, here are some comforting words from the Bible, “Jesus understands.” Whatever you’re thinking; whatever you’re feeling, Jesus understands. He’s only a prayer away. He wants you to pour out your heart to Him. You don’t have to pretend you don’t feel sad, discouraged, or angry. He wants to hear how you’re feeling. Draw close to Him and know that whatever you face today, Jesus understands. For more encouragement, visit Proverbs31.org.
Related Resources:
The Best of the Proverbs 31 Ministry, by selected authors, edited by Glynnis Whitwer “His Plan is to Love You”, March 13, 2007, Online Devotion
Wednesday, August 01, 2007
Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurstContributing Writers: Susanne Scheppmann and Amanda Waldroop
Do you have trouble trusting God to help you during a crisis? Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. You know, sometimes it’s hard to remember that God is always faithful, even when He doesn’t do what I want when I want!
At Yellowstone National Park the great geyser, Old Faithful, can always be counted on to erupt, but not always on man’s timetable of every 96 minutes. In fact, after an earthquake, the time between the geyser’s eruptions is longer. But even when it’s not at the expected moment, the geyser got its name because it’s always faithful to release its spray.
Well, just like Old Faithful, I’ve found that God sometimes increases the time between my so-called earthquake and His rescue. By allowing a longer time span between crisis and aid, God brings me to a place where I must depend on Him, believe in Him and rely on Him.
To learn more about God’s faithfulness visit proverbs31.org.
Related Resources:
Old Faithful; Proverbs 31 Daily Devotion 1/15/07 (see devotion to make this stronger)
Getting Over The Blues, by Leslie Vernick
