Christmas without Overspending

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

One way I want to honor Jesus this Christmas is by not overspending! Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Sometimes I get so caught up in the hustle and bustle of shopping that I lose focus on what Christmas is all about. This year, I want to focus on Jesus and sharing His love with my family and friends instead of all the money we’re spending. I’ve learned the hard way that the secret to not overspending is to plan ahead.

So my husband and I are going to sit down and set up a holiday budget within our financial means. We’ll include costs for extra food, decorations, gift-wrap, and travel. We’ll also make a list of everyone to buy gifts for and determine how much to spend on each person. I am going to carry that list in my purse and stick to it! Now, if I can only remember to send those out-of-town gifts early to avoid rush delivery charges! For more ways to honor Christ this Christmas, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries and click on Everyday Life at Proverbs31.org.

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An Ordinary Window

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

About a year ago I woke up to the strangest sight. Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Etched in the condensation on my window were two perfect circles. They were joined at the center and looked like wedding bands. I couldn’t figure out how they got there.On about the fourth morning of staring at this phenomenon there was a kind of urgency pulsing through my chest. It was a conviction to love my husband more intentionally. Not just in the convenient ways but in ways that take more thought and effort.So, I made plans for a priority overhaul. And, for a few days, I did great. But then…the distractions of life. The circles soon disappeared and so did my resolve. Well, the circles are back! Maybe, just maybe, Love of the most Divine kind has reached down to touch an ordinary window. For more encouragement, visit proverbs31.org.

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Christmas Book Basket

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

It can be so hard to come up with a creative gift idea for the kids in my life. Hi, I'm Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries.

I was hoping to find some new ideas for Christmas and came across an idea in the book “Homespun Gifts from the Heart.” I read about giving a Christmas Book Basket. I know…most kids don't jump up and down at the idea of getting a book for Christmas; but that's where a little creativity comes in handy.

The idea was to create a gift basket based entirely around the theme of a book. For instance, if a child likes Winnie the Pooh: Pick out a favorite Pooh book, then add a stuffed pooh, some honey, a box of biscuit mix, and a bag a candy. Nestle the gifts in a basket lined with red gingham napkins - and you have a great gift. Who wouldn't love an afternoon filled with hot biscuits, sticky honey, and Winnie the Pooh?

For more creative Christmas gift ideas, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries on-line at proverbs31.org.

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Caught in the Rain

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

Last week I got caught in a rain shower without an umbrella. To make matters worse, I was on my way to speak in front of a crowd of people. Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst from Proverbs 31 Ministries. My hair got frizzy, my clothes were wet, and my notes got smeared. I was so frustrated I started questioning if God even cared about me.

Why couldn’t I just take it all in stride? It’s not always the big things along my journey with God that get me off track. It’s a culmination of little daily aggravations. So I’ve decided to stop seeing annoying interruptions in my daily routine as inconveniences. I have to make the choice to see them as reminders to keep my eyes on Jesus. The funny thing is, later that same day I saw the most beautiful rainbow and I thanked God for His obvious presence in the midst of my rainy interruption. For more encouragement visit Proverbs31.org.

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Know Whose You Are

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Melanie Chitwood

We may know who we are, but do we know whose we are? Hi, I’m Renee Swope with Proverbs 31 Ministries. Melanie chuckled as she listened to her five-year-old give a very detailed answer when someone at church asked his name. He said, I am “Zachary Patrick Chitwood, son of Scott Joseph Chitwood.” Melanie wasn’t sure why Zachary responded that way. She’d certainly never heard this answer before, but she liked it! It let her know that Zachary knew whose he was!

Melanie’s story is a great reminder for me. The truth is sometimes I forget who I belong to. I forget that God alone gives me my identity instead of my past, my feelings, or others’ disapproval. And, you know, the more I grow in my relationship with Jesus, the more I understand that those other definitions are not the truth. The truth is: I am Renee Swope, a daughter of God! For more encouragement click on Everyday Life at Proverbs31.org.

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Mom on a Journey

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

One of my number one jobs as a mom is to remain calm. Don’t panic, don’t panic! Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. The truth is, I’m a mom on a journey. A mom who doesn’t have all the answers and a mom who doesn’t always hold to her conviction to remain calm.

I wish I could claim to be an expert on this topic. If only I had a fool proof solution tucked in my back pocket. But that’s the beauty of a journey. It allows for treasures to be accumulated along the way, and I’ve learned a thing or two. I’ve learned to be aware of the triggers that chip away at my resolve. Triggers come in all forms. Too little sleep. Too tight of a time schedule. Too little planning. Too little time with God. Being aware of these triggers and doing my best to eliminate them keeps my emotions from escalating and my temper from flaring. For more everyday life encouragement, visit Proverbs31.org.

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The Rescuer

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Tracie Miles

Have you ever witnessed a miracle? Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. My friend Tracie was searching her attic for a box when her 18 month old slipped through a hole in the attic floor and fell 15 feet onto a concrete floor. But her descent ended with an unexplainable miracle as she bounced off the floor as if she’d landed on a big pillow. Tracie ran downstairs and discovered that her daughter only had a small bump on her forehead, but not a single broken bone. The doctors couldn’t explain what happened. There’s no explanation for this miracle but God’s hand at work. He rescued Tracie’s daughter from death.

And you know what? He’s performed this miracle for you and me, too! When we begin a relationship with Jesus, He rescues us from eternal death with the hope of heaven. So, if we’ve accepted Christ as Savior, we have witnessed a miracle! For more encouragement, visit Proverbs31.org.

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Simple Love

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Holly Good

I think maybe I should actually listen to my nine-year-old a little more often. Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst from Proverbs 31 Ministries. During my usual hustle and bustle afternoon schedule, I picked up by daughter Brooke from an after school tutoring session. As we headed home she pleaded with me to stop and visit a friend of mine.

To be honest, I didn’t feel like stopping. I needed to get home, fix dinner and begin our busy evening routine. Reluctantly, I gave in to Brooke after her third “please mommy, please.” As we entered my friend’s home, Brooke joyfully ran to greet her with a smile, a big hug, and kiss on the cheek. She then happily planted herself right on her lap.

This impromptu visit turned out to be the highlight of my friend’s day. I hope I can remember my daughter’s gentle lesson of simple Christ-like love. For more encouragement, visit Proverbs31.org.

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How Will They Remember Me?

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

I recently went to a friend's funeral. It was hard – but it was also beautiful! Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries.

I've been thinking about my friend Anne, and the legacy she’s left behind. Anne always chose to love everyone she met. She pointed to God in every waking moment and impacted the lives of people God placed around her. Throughout her life, and even through her battle with cancer, she reflected God's grace.

Anne chose a song called “Remember Me” to be played at the end of her funeral. As I sat there listening and crying, my friend challenged me to think about my own legacy and to ask, "How will others remember me?"

Will I choose to love? Will I point to God no matter what?

Anne taught me that leaving a legacy is about moment by moment choices I make each day – the way I LIVE truly determines what I’ll LEAVE behind!

To learn more about a living and leaving a legacy of love, visit proverbs31.org.

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Waking Up Worried

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

I know things are bad when I start the day overwhelmed with worry! Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. I woke up this morning with that pit in your stomach feeling. We’re waiting for test results from an MRI my daughter had on her shoulder.

When I woke up with this dread in my heart, I could only think of four words to pray, “God, please help me.” Inside those simple words were the cries of a mom for wisdom to know how to help navigate a precious 13- year-old’s heart past whatever the results will show. She’s a gymnast and has high hopes with her sport.

Through prayer and Bible reading I came to realize that the greatest things are not found in achieving the goals we desire. The best things are found in experiencing God along life’s path and trusting that no matter where He leads, His route is always the best. For more encouragement, visit Proverbs31.org.

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How Do I Respond?

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

How do I respond when someone makes me mad? Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries.

There once was a city divided by a great wall. The people on one side hated those who lived on the opposite side. So one night they decided to gather all the trash they could find on their side of the city and threw it over the wall - leaving a mound of garbage for their neighbors to wake up to.

The next morning the recipients of the garbage held a meeting and devised a plan. That night they gathered beautiful things and threw them over the wall. Flowers and anything beautiful they could find were tossed in a heap on the other side. And above the mound of beautiful things they hung a note that said: "Each man gives what he has.”

So, what do I give in return when someone offends me? When someone cuts me off in traffic or treats me rudely? Do I throw an insult their way or do I offer something beautiful like a smile?For more encouragement, visit Proverbs31.org.

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Be There

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

Now, I’m all for multi-tasking but sometimes it gets me into trouble! Hi I’m Lysa TerKeurst with Proverbs 31 Ministries. Recently, while getting gas, I was trying to do so many things at once that I almost pulled away with the nozzle still attached to my car! Multi-tasking really does help me cross more things off of my to-do list. But, I’ve found it’s not a good habit when I’m with my family. A wise friend once said to me, “Lysa when you’re with those you love - be there.” So, when my husband comes home from work, I get off the phone. When I pick my kids up from school, I give my full attention to the details of their day. And each morning I try to take time to read the Bible and talk to God first; even before throwing in a load of laundry or checking my e-mail. Then I can say with confidence to those I love, I’m really here for you. For more encouragement, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at Proverbs31.org.

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Helping Siblings Serve Together

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

The first four men Jesus called to follow Him were two sets of brothers! Was that a coincidence or was it part of God's plan? Hi, I'm Renee Swope for Proverbs31 Ministries.

Based on how intentional God is throughout the Bible, it's unlikely that it was a coincidence that Jesus’ first four disciples were siblings!

The Bible describes how these brothers, and a small group of friends, impacted their world with God’s love! What an amazing picture of siblings serving side-by-side.

It’s unusual to see brothers and sisters serving together. Parents often encourage each child to explore his individual interests – which is a good thing. But often as kids grow up, their lives take them away from each other. So, what would happen if we looked for ways for our children to serve together?

This holiday season, our family’s going to do just that! Maybe it’ll start a world-changing mission, just like it did with those first brothers who walked with Jesus. For more encouragement, visit Proverbs31.org.

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Those We Rely on

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Holly Good

You know, sometimes it’s easy to overlook those people we barely know, yet rely on every day! Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Last week I was on my morning run with my friend Holly when we stopped to talk to her son’s bus driver. There had been a slight scheduling glitch that Holly was hoping to solve.

As we continued on our run, we discussed how nice the bus driver had been. We then took a few moments to pray for her and thanked God for the safety she provides each day. She serves in a vital role that I’ve often overlooked. I couldn’t help but think of all of the people in my life I rely on, yet so often forget to appreciate. This obviously includes family, but also teachers, co-workers, friends, clerks, doctors, and babysitters. Who could we pray for, send an encouraging note to or perhaps show some appreciation for today? For more everyday life encouragement, visit Proverbs31.org.

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Looking for Love

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

Sometimes when you look for love, you’ll actually find it!

Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. I’ll never forget the day I found the love I was looking for!

I’d been struggling with depression for years. One day I was walking around my college campus thinking about my life and wondering why I felt so empty;

I thought about my dreams of marrying my high school sweetheart – dreams that crumbled because I expected him to be everything I needed.

I thought about my professors and friends whose approval I so desperately wanted.

I thought about how hard I’d worked to graduate with honors to prove my worth.

I wondered why none of it was enough. Then God whispered to my heart a thought I’d never had: "Renee, all you’ve ever wanted is unconditional love. But, you’ll never find the love you need in anyone but ME!”

That’s the day I found the love I’d been looking for! To learn more about God’s unconditional love, visit proverbs31.org.

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Embracing our Differences

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

Do you ever wonder why your teenager acts the way they do? Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. I think I have mistakenly assumed that since my teen daughter is strong willed like I am, that she must be in the process of becoming just like me. So, I have been trying to get her to see life and do life my way for years.

But recently a friend opened my eyes up to the fact that my daughter is designed by God to become her own unique person. And despite my frustrations with how different we are, he chose me to be her mother. As her parent, there are still many life lessons to be taught. But our differences don’t necessarily mean that she is always wrong and I am always right. I’ve learned to step back and ask God to give me the wisdom I need to help shape and mold her into the young woman He intends for her to become. For more mom encouragement, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at proverbs31.org.

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Finding Contentment

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

Doesn’t it seem like the more we buy for our kids, the less thankful they are? Hi, I'm Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries.

Psychologists say that a constant supply of gifts can create a sense of entitlement in children, causing them to focus on what's coming next, rather than on what they already own.

The Bible calls this discontentment - never being satisfied, no matter how much we have. So, how do we help our kids learn to be content?

First, we can help them enjoy what they already have by reading books with them; playing board games and talking walks with them while they rollerblade or skateboard in the neighborhood. We can also find ways as a family to help others who are less fortunate. And finally, we can make it a regular habit to talk as a family about what we're thankful for, not just at Thanksgiving. As we focus on what we have instead of everything we don't, contentment can be a permanent part of our homes. For more ideas on finding contentment, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at proverbs31.org.

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Off Kilter Days

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

Yesterday was one of those off kilter days for me and my family. Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. I was just plain frustrated. Several things I’d asked the kids to do around the house were either done half-heartedly or not at all.

My natural response in these situations… well… let’s just say isn’t always positive. But even when everything in me wants to scream, I’ve learned that never makes things better. I can choose the way of ‘it’s my right to be frustrated’… Or I can choose to let God teach me His way.

His way leads to calmly finding a solution without all of the anger and frustration. His way leads me to be able to creatively teach my kids instead of emotionally escalating. And the best part about His way? Instead of feeling guilty about my reactions, it leaves me feeling empowered and encouraged. It’s not easy being a mom, so if you’d like more motherhood encouragement and practical help, visit Proverbs31Ministries at Proverbs31.org.

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Desperately Determined

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

I’d been trying to find my son’s teacher since the last day of school. Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries.

This teacher was really special so I wanted to personally deliver her wedding gift before she got married and moved away. Finally, we made plans to meet. She gave me directions and said to call when we got there.

When we got there I realized I’d forgotten her phone number. I didn’t have her apartment number either. There we sat in front of a three-story building with 24 apartments to choose from!

So, I got my husband and two sons to go door-to-door, while I drove around in case she came out another building.

The next day I told some friends about my desperate search. Some laughed, a few confessed to their own acts of desperation, but one reminded me that Jesus was just as determined to find us! Compelled by love alone, He wanted to personally deliver the gift of His life and His love to us! For more encouragement visit Proverbs31.org.

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Practical Help from a Friend

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

Isn’t it great when your friends love you in practical ways? Hi I'm Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Recently, Shelly shared with me how her friend Amy loved her in a very helpful way.

Shelly and her family had been traveling out of the country almost two weeks. And if you've ever left home for a trip like this you know the hardest part is returning to an empty pantry and a fridge full of out of date food. So, her friend Amy prepared a delicious dinner that was waiting for them when they arrived home from their trip.

Amy had also stocked Shelly’s fridge with a few essentials for the next morning so she wouldn’t have to worry about running to the grocery store.

Hearing this challenged me to take a moment to think of a unique way I can love a friend or neighbor in a practical and supportive way. For more daily encouragement and ideas on being a great friend, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries on-line at Proverbs31.org.

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