The McDonald’s of Money

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

Do your children have any idea where money comes from? Hi, I'm Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. When my son Joshua was a toddler, he used to think we could order money at McDonald’s along with our french fries and hamburgers. After all, he’d seen me drive up to the ATM machine when I needed a little cash, so why couldn’t I order some money for that toy he wanted. Here are some things we tried to help our kids understand how money is earned and spent. First, bring home a paycheck in cash. Then divide the money into categories and put it in envelopes to show where the money goes each month. For example, pull out 10% to give back to God. Then create envelopes for monthly expenses such as the house payment, groceries, and the power bill. My kids are always surprised to see how little is left each month and they seem to better understand how much it takes to provide for our family. If you'd like more tips on parenting with purpose, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at proverbs31.org.

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Money Lessons, Free Online Daily Devotion, August 23, 2005, by Sharon Glasgow

A Legacy of Prayer, Free Online ETC Devotion, June 27, 2005, by MaryBeth Whalen

Cents and Sensibility, by Bethany and Scott Palmer

Mountains or Molehills?

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

The other day I was in the grocery store parking lot when a minivan pulled into the space in front of me. The mom was obviously frustrated and the kids weren’t helping matters much. Hi I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. A few seconds later the Dad pulled up and opened the minivan door to greet his family. The mom never even looked at him as she got out and started marching toward the store. Her husband called out to her but she never turned to acknowledge him. I could identify with her obvious feeling of frustration but seeing this interaction broke my heart. How many times have I made a mountain out of a molehill and treated my husband with utter disrespect? Probably more than I’d care to admit. God, will you help me to be really careful with how I treat my husband? Help me to get over the small stuff and have a better perspective of how very fortunate I really am. For more life encouragement log on to Proverbs31.org.

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Becoming the Woman of His Dreams, by Sharon Jaynes

The First Desperate Housewife, Free Online Daily Devotion, June 6, 2007, by Micca Campbell

Divisive or Decisive?

Radio 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.

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A Steadfast Heart, Free Online Daily Devotion, May 11, 2005, by MaryBeth Whalen

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

Gracious Words

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

The other day I was eating in a restaurant and every time our server came to our table she had something kind to say. Hi I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. I was amazed by her gracious attitude and I found that it was quite contagious. So, I challenged myself to make a conscious effort to make my words a gift to each person that I came in contact with for the rest of that day. In a world that promotes tearing others down to build yourself up, we can make a difference by using our words to bless and encourage others. Let’s look at those who we come in contact with today as people who need a kind word or two. I’ve found that in giving kind words to others, it makes me feel great as well. Proverbs 31 Ministries offers encouragement everyday on-line. If you’d like to receive our “Encouragement for Today” E-mail just log on to Proverbs 31 Ministries at Proverbs31.org.

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30 Days To Taming Your Tongue, by Deborah Smith Peques

Healthy Hearts Are Happy Hearts, Free Online Daily Devotion, November 8, 2006, by Lysa TerKeusrt

The Perfect Gift for a Friend

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

Do you need a gift for a friend that won’t cost much? Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. My friend, Danielle, told me how a friend of hers had given her a great gift! She invited Danielle to her house even though she didn’t have time to clean it. This woman takes great pride in keeping an immaculate home so Danielle was honored that she was allowed to see what her friend thought was a total mess. Danielle saw her friend’s imperfections – and it gave her permission to be transparent with her own shortcomings. Isn’t that what true friendship is about–letting our guards down and getting real with each other – whether we have a messy house or even a messy heart? So, next time you need a gift for a friend - don’t spend a dime, simply invite her into your home and your life when it’s not all put together – that just might be the best gift you could give her! For more ideas on being a good friend, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at Proverbs31.org .

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Friendship: The Love Training Ground, Free Online Daily Devotion, March 10, 2006, by Glynnis Whitwer

Why Not Her?, Free Online ETC Devotion, August 29, 2005, by Glynnis Whitwer

Traveling Together: Thoughts on Women, Friendship and the Journey of Faith, by Carla Worley

I Love This!

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

Four loads of laundry, thaw out frozen meat for dinner, pull the weeds out front, water the ferns out back, fill out the permission slip for next week’s field trip, and don’t forget to make that doctor appointment! Hi I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Let’s see where were we, oh yes, my to do list. Getting groceries is a must, fill the car with gas, volunteer at the school, get coffee with kids after school, and call out those spelling words. Gymnastics for this one and soccer for that one, quickly make tacos for dinner. Bath time, bedtime and hugs all around, say prayers, turn off the lights-- whew another day is done. Yes, I’m tired and admittedly sometimes frustrated. But if I can get past seeing these things as items on my to-do list and onto the blessing it all represents…I am thankful, truly thankful. For more encouragement, click on Everyday Life at Proverbs 31.org.

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A Busy Woman’s Guide to Prayer, by Cheri Fuller

And the winner is… Free Daily Devotion

What Sapped My Strength?

Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Tracie Miles

Ever wake up after a full night’s sleep and still feel tired? Hi, I’m Renee Swope with Proverbs 31 Ministries. Not too long ago I woke up feeling groggy, empty, and sad. I didn’t have a reason to be discouraged, but my heart felt heavy. Then, I felt a tugging at that heavy heart to read my bible. As I opened it, I felt God leading me to a place that says, “My strength was sapped as in the heat of summer.” I realized the temperature outside wasn’t what was stealing my joy; it was my lack of strength. In my busyness, I hadn’t been taking time to read my Bible and talk to God. So, God’s strength inside me had started to fade and my own strength just wasn’t enough. I was so glad my joy and peace returned after spending time with Him that morning. He began to renew my strength. If you want to learn more about experiencing God’s peace and strength in the midst of your busy life, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at proverbs31.org.

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Breathe by Kari Wyatt

"Why Should I Know God’s Word?” Devotion by Melissa Taylor

“The Face of God” Devotion by Marybeth Whalen

Tackle it Today!

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

Have you ever had a project that really needed to get done but you just couldn’t find the motivation to get started? Hi I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. My project was cleaning out the bonus room which, in reality, had become a junk room. Something had to be done but every time I put this task on my to-do list, the pang of dread would lure me to find excuses to avoid it. Then one day it occurred to me I was being held hostage in my home by a bunch of junk. I couldn’t even tell you what was in that room. Finally, I marched into the room armed with 4 little helpers and a whole box of trash bags. Two trips to Goodwill and one trip to the dump later, the room was cleaned out! The lesson I learned? I just had to get started and the progress I made motivated me to finish the job! For more encouragement click on Everyday Life at Proverbs31.org.

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Cleaning Up The Clutter, by Emilie Barnes

But Will It Make Me Happy?, Free Online Daily Devotion, June 7, 2007, by MaryBeth Whalen

Saner Family Travels

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

How will we survive another eight-hour drive to the family reunion? Hi, I'm Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. I used to dread family reunions because we have to travel so far. So, we found a few ways to keep our kids content on long car rides. When they were little, we brought a rimmed cookie sheet along for each of them to hold on their lap. They also had a small bag of their favorite toys, paper, crayons, card games and letter magnets. The cookie sheet rim would keep everything from falling off and it was magnetic. To keep older kids from saying, "ARE WE THERE YET?", we found a simple solution. Before we leave home, each one gets a roll of quarters. If someone complains or causes a fight; he has to pay me 2 quarters. When we reach our destination, they can spend remaining quarters on a special treat. These ideas help us drive for miles while our kids plan for purchases or play happily in their seats. For more family fun ideas, visit Proverbs31.org.

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Five Star Families, by Carol Kuykendall

Stop the Grumbling, Free Online Daily Devotion, August 1, 2006, by Glynnis Whitwer

Happy Trails - Family Style, Free ETC Corner Devotion, July 2006, by Amy Carroll

Riding the Wave of Emotion

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

I’ve discovered a life-changing truth when it comes to my crazy emotions. Hi I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries and what I’ve found is that I can make good decisions despite my feelings. You see, I used to try to feel my way to decisions. The problem with this is that my feelings can be fickle at best and lead me astray at worst. But now I’ve learned that I have a choice when it comes to the attitude I have and the emotions I express. And this choice does not have to be based on the circumstances that come my way. For example, if my husband says something that hurts my feelings, I have a choice to get swept up in a tirade of emotion and assumption or to simply say, “Hey hon…that remark hurt me. Can you clarify what you meant?” This helps me get to the root of the issue without my emotions unnecessarily escalating. For more relationship ideas click on Everyday Life at Proverbs31.org.

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The Five Languages of Apology, by Dr. Gary Chapman and Jennifer Thomas

A Yeah Day, Free Online Daily Devotion, May 24, 2007, by Wendy Pope

Follow the Leader

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope with Sharon Glasgow

Ever get in a fight with your husband about how things should be done? Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. I’ll admit I have my own ideas about how things should be done: how to raise and discipline our kids; how and where our money should be spent; what activities to be involved in and what should be on my “honey do” list this weekend.

It feels like the world is always telling me to do things my way. Well, being independent isn’t a bad thing. But it makes it hard for me to make decisions with my husband or to follow his lead.

So, what do I do? I’ve learned that when I don’t agree with my husband’s ideas or requests, I need to trust God’s plans by biting my tongue, listening to my husband’s words, and honoring him with mine. I’ve been surprised many times when I did these things and then later realized God was leading my husband in the right direction after all! For more marriage encouragement, visit Proverbs31.org.

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In His Dreams, Free Online Daily Devotion, November 30, 2006, by Sharon Glasgow

Capture His Heart, by Lysa TerKeurst

What a Husband Needs from His Wife, by Melanie Chitwood

How Serious is Sin Really?

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

A little white lie here, a little bit of gossip there…how bad are these things, really? Hi I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Recently, I was reading in the Bible about Judas, the disciple that betrayed Jesus for 30 pieces of silver. It said Judas bought a field with that money. Ironically, it was the same field where he eventually hung himself. His wrongdoings caught up with him and had deadly consequences. While our selfish acts may not lead us to the same end as Judas, what the Bible calls sin always causes our hearts to be pulled further and further away from God’s best. So, I need to stay on guard every day by reading the Bible and asking God to reveal to me anything that’s pulling my heart away from Him. For more encouragement click on Everyday Life at Proverbs31.org.

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6 Habits of Highly Effective Christians, by Brian T. Anderson and Glynnis Whitwer

White Noise, Free Online Daily Devotion, January 23, 2007, by Susanne Scheppmann

False Advertisement

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Micca Campbell

I’m guilty of false advertising! Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. My friend Micca was stirring chocolate syrup into a glass of milk when she noticed the label said “Genuine Artificial Flavor.” What looked and tasted real was artificial! “This is false advertisement!” she said.

Micca said it made her think about how sometimes she displays something artificial in place of genuine faith in God. Although she knows the right words to say and how to pray a prayer that sounds convincing, Micca said her faith can be artificial.

Sometimes I feel that way. How often do I fight with my family on Sunday mornings as we pull into church and then smile as we get out of the car? And, isn’t it easy to camouflage gossip with prayer? “Did you hear about Susan? We need to pray for her!”

God doesn’t want us to pretend. Genuine faith reflects a changed life and it’s our best advertisement for Jesus. For more encouragement, visit Proverbs31.org.

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False Advertisement, Free Online Daily Devotion, July 5, 2007, by Micca Campbell

6 Habits of Highly Effective Christians, by Brian T. Anderson and Glynnis Whitwer

You Complete Me!

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

I love a good movie but I have to be careful not to let them affect my thinking! Hi I’m Lysa TerKeurst with Proverbs 31 Ministries. There’s a part in one famous movie where the leading man looks at the leading lady and says, “You complete me.” Wow! What a line! A typical conversation between my husband and me doesn’t contain words that are quite so moving. Did you pick up the dry cleaning, how much was the power bill this month, and even our usual love you…love you too- don’t measure up to “You complete me.” But the reality is I don’t have to hear those smooth, Hollywood words when my husband lives out a much stronger message of love, integrity, and faithfulness everyday. I just need to remember how very lucky I am. And, if I’m dying for dramatic words to be spoken in my marriage, then I can certainly make my husband’s day by saying them to him. For more marriage encouragement, log onto Proverbs31.org.

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Capture His Heart, by Lysa TerKeurst

Surrendering Your Marriage, Free Online Daily Devotion, September 5, 2007, by Melanie Chitwood

Muscles

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Melissa Taylor

I just read an article that said once you hit 40, you start to lose muscle. Well, I recently hit 40, so I panicked! Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. The article said, “Muscle loss slows metabolism and weakens our bones.” I’d better start exercising!

You know, the same is true of our spiritual muscles. Our spiritual muscles are our heart and mind and, to keep them fit, we have to exercise them by reading the Bible, praying, and keeping a godly perspective in everyday life. If we stop doing these things, our spirit grows weak because we don’t have the strength we need to handle life without fear, worry, insecurity, and uncertainty.

When I don’t exercise my spiritual muscles, these weaknesses creep back into my life and I forget the awesome power I once had. So, work, family, or busyness can’t be an excuse. I’ve got to do what it takes to keep my spiritual muscles strong! For more encouragement, visit Proverbs31.org.

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Muscles, Free Online Daily Devotion, July 09, 2007, by Melissa Taylor

A Busy Woman’s Guide to Prayer, by Cheri Fuller

Helping the World

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

Have you ever seen the pictures of people in developing nations and thought, “I should do something to help but I don’t know what?” I’ve felt that way, too. Hi I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Recently, on a trip to Ecuador, I had a chance to talk with a mother of five, living in a two room shanty on the side of a mountain. I asked what the hardest part of her life was. With tears in her eyes she said that carrying food and laundry up and down the mountainside was crippling her back. I asked about a donkey and was told that she’d never be able to afford such a luxury. I found out that to get a donkey for this family would be $150. I thought, “I might not be able to save every hurting family in the world but I can get a donkey for this one.” For more ideas on changing the world by helping those around us, log on to Proverbs31.org.

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Small Acts of Grace, by Alice Gray

Open For Service, Free Online Daily Devotion, June 14, 2007, by Tracie Miles

Keep on Shining

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Melissa Taylor

If I’m supposed to be a light why do I sometimes feel so dim? Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Jesus said we are the light of the world and that we shouldn’t hide our light but put it on a stand for everyone to see.

I used to have trouble thinking of myself as the light of the world. But then I realized I’m not the light. Jesus is the light in me. Then I asked myself some questions. Does His light shine through me for others to see? Sometimes yes, but sometimes, no. So, what are the things that hide His light? Things like: Focusing on myself, Worry, Concern about what others will think, busyness and not spending time with God so He can recharge His light in me.

There’ll always be something to keep my light from shining. So, I’m trying to focus on Jesus instead of myself. That way others can see God’s power in my life and be drawn to His Light in me! For more encouragement, visit Proverbs31.org.

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Keep On Shining, Free Online Daily Devotion, July 19, 2007, by Melissa Taylor

A Busy Woman’s Guide to Prayer, by Cheri Fuller

Older Woman

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

When did I become the older lady? Hi I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. The other day a friend of mine informed me that we had graduated from the status of younger woman to that of older woman. Not that we’re that old in years but we’ve lived through and survived the season of sippy cups and training pants and have arrived at a place where we just might have a nugget or two of wisdom to share. The next generation of moms is now looking to us for advice and it’s our responsibility to be there for them. Do you have some new moms in your sphere of influence that you could encourage? Even if you just say, “Hey, I made it through the sleepless nights and two year old temper tantrums, and you can too. Here are some things that worked for me…” you could be a lifesaver for someone who’s just entered the world of mommyhood. For more encouragement click on “Everyday Life” at Proverbs31.org.

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Finding A Mentor, Being A Mentor, by Donna Otto

Women: Friend or Foe?, Free Online Daily Devotion, January 31, 2007, by Rachel Olsen

Planted by Water

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Glynnis Whitwer

Andrew ran into the kitchen, grabbed a pot, filled it with water, and ran outside. Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. I found my son sprinkling water on the petals of my drooping flowers. He didn’t realize that the plant needed to be watered at the roots.

Sometimes I try to nourish my faith on the surface instead of at the root. I’ll sing songs at church while thinking about where to go for lunch afterward. I’ll listen to my pastor’s message and think about how much my husband needs to hear it. And I’ll read my Bible on the run without spending time to let the words really sink in.

The Bible says we’re like a tree that needs to be planted by water so our roots grow deep and get the nutrients they need. So I want to plant myself in God’s presence by spending time reading my Bible and praying each day. A sprinkle of water didn’t help my flowers and a sprinkle of Truth isn’t enough for me. For more encouragement, visit proverbs31.org.

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Planted by Water, Free Devotion by Glynnis Whitwer

God Calling, by A.J. Russell

Boundaries

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

My dogs have a great life, yet given the chance they might push past the boundaries of our fence and run away. Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Champ and Chelsea have a pond to swim in, a field to run in, all the food they need, and owners who love and care for them. Yet, I’ve noticed both of them looking longingly on the other side of our fence. It’s as if they’re saying, “All this is nice but we are certain there’s something better out there.” Little do they know that outside our fence awaits dangers they can’t even fathom. But I guess I can’t blame them for something I’m guilty of as well. How many times have I been tempted to step just outside of what I know to be God’s best? God, thank you for the boundaries that you have set up for me. And, help me to trust you enough to stay safely inside. For more encouragement, log on to Proverbs31.org.

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Becoming A Woman Who Listens To God, by Sharon Jaynes

Missing The Fireflies For The Trees, June 13, 2007, Online Daily Devotion

No Matter What

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: MaryBeth Whalen

I’m trying to define the “no matter what’s” in my life. Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Recently, a friend challenged me to come up with a list of no matter what’s after hearing Dave Ramsey say that he taught his kids to establish no matter what’s in dating. And, she realized this principle could be applied to many of life’s situations.

Here are a few of my friend Marybeth’s no matter what’s: In the area of finances, she and her husband determined to never go into debt again, no matter what. In their marriage, they’re committed to each other, no matter what. And, most importantly, she seeks to have God’s perspective everyday, no matter what. This means relying on Him no matter what.
God can use our no matter what’s to shape us into who He wants us to be. And, who knows? Maybe He’ll use us to help someone else form their own list of no matter what’s. For more encouragement, log on to proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:
No Matter What, Free Online Daily Devotion, July 23, 2007, by Marybeth Whalen

The Air I Breathe, by Louie Giglio

Thank You!”

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

Yesterday I spent several hours catching up on writing thank you notes. Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. "Hours?” you say. Yes, hours. I was quite behind.

What spurred on this thank you marathon? Well, I’ve felt challenged lately to make a better effort to remember to thank people. So, it started by thanking those that remembered my birthday. It felt so good that after I got through my birthday list I wanted to keep going. So, I asked God who else I might need to thank. He kept bringing people to mind so I kept writing.
My hand was quite tired by the time I signed, sealed, and mailed the last card but my heart was incredibly full of joy. Do you need a little boost in your day? Well, grab a pen and ask God who might need a thank you note from you.

For more joy boosting ideas visit Proverbs 31 Ministries and click on Everyday Life at Proverbs 31.org.

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What Happens When Women Say Yes to God; by Lysa TerKeurst

Small Acts of Grace, by Alice Gray

www.LysaTerKeurst.blogspot.com