A Little Goes A Long Way

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

How can I fit time with God into my busy life? Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. I ask myself that question a lot and I have a feeling that maybe you ask yourself the very same thing.

But you know I’ve found that spending time praying and reading the Bible shouldn’t be something on my to-do list to check off and forget about. I can live out daily adventures with God. I can always talk to Him and look to the Bible for direction. But one thing I know for sure no good comes out of me mentally beating myself up about this.

Many of us have believed at one time or another that if we don’t have hours to spend on our knees then we shouldn’t bother praying at all. But if we have just 5 minutes, we can give those 5 minutes to God. If we find a block of 30 minutes one day, we can give that to God. A little bit of time goes a long way! For more encouragement in your relationship with God, visit Proverbs31.org.

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Beyond a Shadow of Doubt

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

"Things will never change. Nothing’s going to get better. I can’t do this.”Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries and…those are some depressing thoughts, aren't they? But oh how quickly they find their way into my thinking. These are the whispers of doubt that make me feel hopeless.

Doubt keeps us from believing things can get better. I’ve found that doubt and hope can’t live in my heart at the same time. Without hope of things getting better - doubt wins every time. But I’ve discovered that, with Jesus, all things are possible and the most likely place for change - is in me! You see, the God of hope wants us to live beyond the shadow of doubt. With confidence, He tells us:

"Things are about to change - see I am doing a new thing." "I am working all things together for good, because you love me and live according to my purpose." "All things are possible for those who believe in Me."

For more encouragement from Proverbs 31 Ministries, visit Proverbs 31.org.

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The Family Tool Kit

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writers: Lysa TerKeurst

Here’s a great idea for a bumper sticker: “Choose Well, Live Well!” Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. My friend Michelle has made it her motherhood goal to not just celebrate her kid’s achievements, but to celebrate their good choices. She believes a child’s choices reflect their character.

When Michelle’s daughter learned to ride her bike, her dinner that evening was served on the Family Honor Plate; a plate that only goes to those who show good character. Her daughter knew that she was getting the honor plate not because she learned to ride her bike, but because she had an amazing attitude and didn’t give up. Even if even if she hadn’t learned to ride her bike, her choice to persevere would’ve prompted this reward. Michelle believes it’s not only her job, but her privilege to instill character in her children by rewarding choices, not performance. To learn more about strengthening your family relationships, log on to proverbs31.org.

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Praying God’s Word

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

My conversations with God used to feel kind of flat. I didn't know how to pray so I didn’t pray that often.

Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. I really didn't know what to say to God when I was struggling or when friends were going through hard times. I wanted my prayers to be filled with power and faith to believe that God was big enough, and cared enough, to accomplish what I was asking for.One day a friend told me about the power of making the words we read in the Bible into a prayer. She said that when we pray using God's own words, we’re praying for what God wants. I really liked that idea. It gave me a sense of direction.The Bible says that the words we read in it are alive and active. So, when we use words from the Bible as a guide for prayer, we can expect those words to become active in the person's life that we're praying for. For ways to pray using God’s words, visit Proverbs 31.org.

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Praying God’s Word, free devotion from Renee Swope

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Rejoice With Her

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writers: Lysa TerKeurst

Isn’t it hard to celebrate with a friend when she’s getting something YOU really want? Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Whether you’d really like to get married and your roommate just got engaged, or you’re longing to be a mom and your best friend just told you she’s pregnant, it can be difficult to be happy for other who are experiencing the very things you’ve hoped and prayed for.

It’s no wonder that the Bible has to tell us to “rejoice with those who rejoice.”

In her book Small Acts of Grace, Alice Gray says, “Whenever I’ve made the effort to look beyond my own desires and cheer for another, I have almost always received the gift of encouragement for myself as well.” So, even if it takes everything in us, let’s try rejoicing with those who have a reason to celebrate – even when we don’t. Who knows, maybe it will make our happiest moments that much sweeter.

For more encouragement, log on to proverbs31.org.

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My Son Was Right!

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

It’s so easy to point out where our kids are wrong, but what about when they’re absolutely right? Hi I’m Renee Swope with Proverbs 31 Ministries. We’ve just been through a very busy couple of months. We sold our house, bought a new house, and survived all that moving entails. Once we finally got settled in, I had tons of work to catch up on which kept me in my home office working at the computer a lot

My sons have been great during the transition but the other day, my youngest reached a breaking point. “Mom, I feel like we haven’t been spending any time together lately.”

Now, I could’ve reminded him of all my hard work and why I’d spent so much time in my office, but I knew he was right! So I paused, looked into his adorable eyes and replied, “You’re absolutely right, Andrew.” I thanked him for being God’s reminder that it’s important for us to be together and have fun. The next day we planned a family dinner and game night. Thanks Andrew!

For more motherhood encouragement, visit Proverbs 31.org.

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Rude or Respectful?

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writers: Lysa TerKeurst

There is nothing that embarrasses me more than if one of my kids acts rude or disrespectful. Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Respect is really important in our family. One thing my husband and I want our children to see that their actions are not just a reflection on them but our whole family as well. We’ve found that respect is something that must be taught with great consistency. When asked a question we expect them to respond with real words not grunts or groans under their breath. We’ve also shown them how to answer the phone politely, and give a nice firm handshake when being introduced to others. Now, trust me this is a process and our kids are not perfect so, we’ve also clearly explained the consequences of disobedience. And the consequences are memorable enough that the next time respect seems like a more appealing choice. For more ideas on developing Godly character in your kids, visit Proverbs31.org.

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An Unhurried Life

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope with Glynnis Whitwer

I’m drawn to un-hurried people. I'm sure it's because I wish I was like them. Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Unhurried moms take time to explain to their kids where they’re going. Hurried moms tell their children to get in the car - they'll find out soon. I bet children of unhurried moms learne more about their cities and sites.Unhurried women take time to chat with a sales clerk, and brighten her day. Hurried women rush in and out, glancing at their watches if there's a delay. I think sales clerks see a little of Jesus in the unhurried woman.You see, Jesus chose to put people over His schedule. Although He had more to accomplish in three years than we can imagine accomplishing in a lifetime, the Bible never mentions Jesus being in a hurry. He always made time to hold a child, touch a sick man or talk to a woman in need.

I want to live an unhurried life like Jesus. For some more ways to do just that, visit Proverbs 31.org.

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Is it Possible to See God?

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writers: Lysa TerKeurst

Is it possible to see God? Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Take a moment and think about all the things your eyes have focused on today. If you’re driving, hopefully they’re focused on the road in front of you. Or perhaps you’ve had to concentrate your vision on the safety of your children. Maybe your eyes have obsessed over the disastrous state of your home. Well, while your physical eyes have had things they’ve had to concentrate on, what have your spiritual eyes been looking at?

Our spiritual eyes are the eyes of our heart. And, we can keep them focused on God even when our physical eyes have to look in twenty different directions all at once! God knows our limits, our desires, and our hearts. We can trust Him as we focus the eyes of our heart in His direction, and allow Him to redefine the way we view all the stuff our physical eyes have to look after every day!

For help in learning to trust God, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at proverbs31.org.

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Where Does My Help Come From?

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

I need help! But where can I find it? Hi, I’m Renee Swope from Proverbs 31 Ministries. There are days when I am so jealous of the Proverbs 31 Woman – the Bible says she had servant girls –and I could surely use some help around here!

The other day I was grumbling a little to God about needing some help and He reminded me that my help comes from HIM!

In the Bible. King David said, “I lift up my eyes to the hills— where does my help come from? My help comes from God, the Maker of heaven and earth.”

We all have areas of our lives where we need help, but sometimes I forget that God offers the help I need! These words remind me that when I feel overwhelmed and like I can’t go on, instead of only asking for help, I can remind myself of where my help comes from. My help comes from God! He is the maker of Heaven and earth. For more encouragement, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at Proverbs 31.org.

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God is Watching

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

We’ve all had that feeling that someone’s watching us. Well, someone is! Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. The Bible says that God’s eyes are “everywhere, keeping watch.” But, it’s not like some scary scene out of a suspense novel. God watching us is actually a positive thing!

I know, sometimes I wish God didn’t see everything because sometimes I’m embarrassed by my harsh words or immature behavior. But, the Bible also says His eyes are on those that love him and His ears listen to their prayers. So, God’s ability to see and know everything can be an awesome benefit to our lives. I love knowing that He’s watching over my family. And, I can rest in knowing that He’s aware of everything that goes on around me. He isn’t a disconnected, unfeeling God. He’s an essential part of my life each and every day. If you’d like to know more about experiencing God’s involvement in your life today log on to proverbs31.org.

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I Hate to Be a Burden

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

My email was supposed to be a prayer request, but it started out sounding more like an apology. Hi, I’m Renee Swope from Proverbs 31 Ministries. I needed friends to pray, but I hesitated to ask. I didn't want my request to be a burden for anyone.

My husband was having health problems and a biopsy done that week, but I wasn’t sure if it was going to be anything serious in the end. I just knew that I didn’t want to walk through it alone or in my own strength. Fifteen minutes after I sent the email several friends started telling me they were praying. Not only did they pray - they thanked me for sharing what was going on and for letting them be there for me.

For someone who hates to impose on others, I need to remember that asking for prayer isn't about putting burdens on my friends. It's about letting them walk by my side down a path that I was never intended to walk alone. For more encouragement, visit Proverbs 31.org.

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The Ever-Present Sun

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

On a recent flight, God reminded me that He’s always there even when I can’t see Him. Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. When my plane took off the sky was gray and the day was cold and dreary. But, as the plane broke through the clouds, I was astounded to see that the sun hadn’t gone anywhere, it was bright, warm and gleaming for miles.

The people on the ground didn’t have the same perspective. All they could see was a bleak, sunless sky. But, if they could have risen above the clouds like I did they could have experienced the same glorious sunshine. Isn’t that how it is in our relationship with God sometimes? The clouds of our circumstances can seem to roll in and block Him out of our lives. But, just like the sun, God hasn’t gone anywhere. Maybe we just need His help to break through those clouds and bask in the light of His love.

For more encouragement, visit proverbs31.org.

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Starting My Day with Jesus

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

I woke up this morning with a looong TO DO list consuming my thoughts. Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. I hadn't even opened my eyes before the line items on my TO DO list started begging for my attention. My list had categories AND sub-categories. TO DO around the house, TO DO while running errandsTO DO for the kids and JJ, TO DO for workScrolling down my mental list was not a good way to begin my day, so I decided to roll over and start again.

"Good morning Jesus.” I whispered. “How are you today?" I just had to smile at myself and wonder if God was hoping I’d ask. His peace came over me as I lay there talking to Him.

Why don't I do this every morning? It was such a great way to start my day - talking to Jesus before my eyes even opened. And listening to His thoughts before I tackled mine. For more ideas on starting your day with God, sign up for some free daily encouragement at Proverbs31.org.

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A Parable for Your Child

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writers: Lysa TerKeurst

My kids won’t want to meet Jesus unless they see the reality of Him in my life. Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. One thing I’ve discovered over the years is that for my kids to learn who Jesus really is and the difference He can make in their lives, they first have to know the differences He’s made in mine.

One way I help them see how a relationship with Jesus has changed me is by sharing my life stories. As I tell these stories over and over I’m able to point out God’s hand at work – shaping me along the way for my life today.

Some children struggle to remember a passage of scripture but can often recall the details of a story. I think that’s why Jesus taught with parables. So, if you’re trying to help your kids learn who Jesus really is, maybe you can start by sharing stories of who He is to you. For more ideas on leading your children to Christ, log on to proverbs31.org.

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Where Has My Time Gone?

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

Today I decided not to do some things I really needed to do! Instead I spent time with my family just having fun. Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Every day I have a choice. Will my schedule be determined by laundry that’s piling high, deadlines that are getting closer and projects that have been waiting for months, or will I set aside time to spend with my family?

It’s so easy to get swept up into what I need to get done. But, at the end of the day, I wonder where my time has gone, and what my kids and husband have been doing while I was on the computer or cleaning for hours.

God wants me to love and enjoy my family! Not just clean up after and work around them. So today I stopped doing so much and got intentional about being with them. We sat on the porch talking and went for a walk. At the end of the day, I loved knowing where my time had gone. For more encouragement visit Proverbs31.org.

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Following Instructions

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writers: Lysa TerKeurst

How good are you at following instructions? Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. As a mom, I often find myself in the role of a teacher. I love teaching my kids how to do new things whether that means instructing them on how to tie their shoes or on how to figure out a difficult math problem. I try to guide them according to what’s right and rejoice with them when they succeed. But my instructions will only help them if they’re willing to follow them.

Our Heavenly Father is a teacher too, and the Bible contains His instructions for us. If we’re willing to receive it’s teaching the Bible can help us succeed in doing what’s right and best for us. But, just as we discipline our children when they disobey - if we refuse to listen to God, He might discipline us. So, let’s be teachable today and enjoy the good things that come from following God’s instructions! For more encouragement, log on to proverbs31.org.

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Little Flower

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writers: Tracie Miles and Renee Swope

Does it seem like picking on each other is your kids’ favorite pastime? Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. My friend Tracie was recently telling me how her children’s days can turn into one fight after another. After one very irritating morning of sibling rivalry, Tracie took her daughter aside and told her that her brother is like a little flower, and if she would water him with love all day long, instead of aggravating him, he would flourish, and his love for her would grow.

Tracie’s story got me thinking about the fact that my sons are also like flowers and I’m responsible for watering them with love everyday, so they can flourish and grow. My words are like seeds that take root in their hearts and blossom through their actions and attitudes. That gave me new motivation to be a good example in every area of my life, so all the little flowers in my home will bloom to their fullest potential. For more encouragement on nurturing your children, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at Proverbs 31.org.

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Good Money Management

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

I don’t know about you, but I’m always game for some tips on saving money! Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries and like most moms I’m continually looking for ways to save money on all the things my family needs.

In her book, Dollars and Sense, Cynthia Sumner lists numerous ways you can save money:

Shop off-season, and save a bundle. When looking for something specific, call stores and ask
for prices to save time, money, and gasoline. If you need to save money, declare a “no
spending” month except on the absolute necessities.

And, when it comes to some of those out-of-the-blue expenses, Cynthia has some tips for those as well like:

In gift giving, be creative not compulsive.

Challenge your property tax bill if you think it’s too high.

And, finally, ask for generic versions of drugs prescribed by your physician.

For more money saving ideas, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at Proverbs31.org.

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The Best Bargain, a free devotion by Rachel Olsen

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Accepting Ourselves

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

When you look in the mirror, do you like what you see? Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. A friend of mine lived most of her life with a gap between her two front teeth. She was convinced that it was the first thing people saw when they met her. Several years ago, someone gave her the opportunity to have the gap fixed and she was thrilled! The surprising thing was that it took a while for her friends and family to notice the difference.

Isn’t it funny how we spend so much time focusing on our flaws that we think everyone else is doing the same thing? It’s more likely that they’re so focused on their own flaws that they hardly notice ours. So, if you’re criticizing yourself today, remember that other people see all of you, not just your flaws. Besides, the Bible says you are fearfully and wonderfully made. Perfect? No, but definitely wonderful! For more encouragement, log on to proverbs31.org.

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The Real Me

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

I always chuckle when I hear someone introduce me as an author and speaker. I know I’m just a carpooling mom of 5 whose husband is happy if I can simply manage to have clean clothes in his drawer every morning! Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries.

To be honest, some days when I think about all that needs to be done, I start feeling overwhelmed. Can you relate? If so, here’s a little prayer that helps me. God, I dreamed my whole life of being a wife and a mom. But sometimes it’s hard to have so many constant demands. Will You help me know what needs to be done and what can be put off until later? Will You speak to my heart when I’m overwhelmed by my tasks and not attentive enough to my family? And, will You please help me to be the wife and mom You want me to be? If this is your desire as well, Proverbs 31 Ministries would love to encourage you at proverbs31.org.

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Legally Blind

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

How well can you see things? Hi, I'm Renee Swope with Proverbs 31 Ministries. My friend's sister, Elise, is legally blind. She can see, but not with clarity. When she wakes up in the morning she needs her glasses just to see the clock on her nightstand. She sees the red lights, but the numbers are blurry.

Thankfully, I don't have trouble seeing with my eyes, but there are times when I look at life with blurred vision. I need help knowing which direction to take and what decisions to make. I guess you could say that I need "God Vision"! Just like Elise needs her glasses to see the world, we need God to give us wisdom and the ability to see things the way He sees them - not just through our own temporary circumstances. Have you asked God to help you see life through His perspective? If not, we'd love to give you some free daily encouragement. Sign up for our email devotions today at proverbs31.org.

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