Treasures

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

When my son got home from his grandma’s the other day he was so excited! He’d been entrusted with a special treasure! Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. My mom had given Andrew a crystal pitcher that had belonged to his great grandmother. We talked about why it was a special treasure and how he needed to take good care of it.

It dawned on me that this was a great time to tell Andrew how God says our most valuable treasures are in heaven. I explained that we gain treasures for ourselves in Heaven by doing things that reflect what God treasures most.

Andrew was excited to know that he had treasures in heaven, and he wanted to know how to get more! I told him that the Bible says when we serve and love others - the way Jesus does - God stores those acts of kindness as treasures for us. For more encouragement, click on today’s radio transcript at Proverbs31.org.

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Losing Stuff

Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

Recently my husband and I returned home from vacation only to discover that our camera was missing. Hi I’m Lysa TerKeurst with Proverbs 31 Ministries. And I have to admit I cried. Not so much over the lost camera as over the lost pictures. I know it sounds silly but I was so sad I prayed that God would either help us find the camera or give me a peace about this loss. Later that day, I wrote down what I felt I needed to remember:

First, keep it in perspective.

And, secondly, don’t let this loss take the joy out of the memories of our trip.

Ultimately, the camera and the photos are just stuff. Many people are dealing with situations today that are far beyond this. So, I’m thankful for the memories, hopeful for the return of the camera, but OK if we never get it back.

For more daily life perspectives, log on to Proverbs 31 Ministries and click on Everyday Life at Proverbs31.org.

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Take Out the Trash

Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Paula Friedrichsen

Sometimes unforgiveness can be a lot like smelly trash! Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries.

When an overripe cantaloupe sits around rotting in the bottom of the kitchen trashcan, it starts to stink. Add yesterday’s leftovers and it gets even worse! We wonder, “Won’t someone PLEASE take out the trash?”

You know, unforgiveness in our hearts is a lot like smelly garbage and it can stink up our marriage. Sometimes I keep a running tally of each and every offense, which makes make my heart quickly wreak of unforgiveness.

I’ve found the only way to “take out the trash” in my marriage is to bring my frustrations to God, ask for His perspective of my husband, and “choose” to search for the good in him.

We’ve all found it difficult to forgive in the past—but here’s the good news; today can be a brand new beginning! For more marriage encouragement click on everyday life at Proverbs31.org.

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All for God

Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

What if I chose today to live in a way that’s completely pleasing to God? Hi I’m Lysa TerKeurst with Proverbs 31 Ministries.

You know, God’s never asked me to do great things. All He’s ever asked of me is to allow His greatness to enter me, change things around in me, and be seen through me. So, today I’m making the choice to not settle for “good enough” I won’t let the influences of pride, what’s easiest for me, and what I want overshadow my desire to live for God. Today, I will choose to put others ahead of myself, to resist the temptation to gossip or displease God in any way, and to give everything in my heart to Him.

There are no great people who serve God. Just simple people who every now and then make great choices.

For more encouragement in your relationship with God log on to Proverbs31.org.

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Lean on Me

Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

My family was snow skiing when we ended up on a slope that was way bigger than we expected. Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries.

My son Andrew kept falling and getting hurt. So, I decided to "ski" him down. He stood in front of me with his skis in between mine and wrapped his arms around my elbows. It was crazy, I know! And believe me, we almost died a few times. Seriously, I was screaming, "JESUS help us". And, HE did!

We made it to the bottom, I told Andrew I was proud of him for staying focused and keeping his skis straight so we could make it down. Then he said, "Mom, you did all the work. I just had to lean on you."

It made me think about how God does all the work if we'll stay centered in Him, lean on His strength and let Him guide us along life's path. For more encouragement, visit Proverbs31.org.

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Does Jesus Work?

Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

Can a regular person like me answer the profound question the world is asking? Hi I’m Lysa TerKeurst with Proverbs 31 Ministries. Today’s society is asking…Does Jesus work?

Well, I’m just a country girl with a husband and 5 kids. I’m not a theologian and I don’t have a PhD. I’m just a woman who dared to utter one little word that shifted my heart and set my soul on the adventure I was designed to live. I simply said “Yes” to Jesus. All I have to show the world that Jesus works is my one little "yes" and a story of what happened when an ordinary woman dared to utter it. And it has been enough.

It’s enough for all of us. The only thing we need in order to share Jesus with others is the reality of what He’s done in our lives. The more we learn to live like Him, the more the world will see Him and know that Jesus ABSOLUTELY works!

For more encouragement log on to Proverbs31.org.

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The Gift of Listening

Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

The other night my husband was calling our 13-year-old dachshund to come get a treat, but she wasn’t budging. Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. We joked about Chelsea having “selective hearing” - since it was her bedtime - or perhaps she's going deaf.

My son Andrew looked at me with concerned on his face and said, “Mom, I hope you don’t go deaf like Chelsea when you get old.” I laughingly asked why.

"Cause sometimes you don’t hear me now. Like when you're on the computer and I ask you a question; you don’t hear me.” Ouch, I wasn’t expecting that answer! But instead of drowning myself in guilt, I pulled him close and apologized. I told him from now on I am going to stop what I’m doing and really listen when he talks to me.

Listening is a gift we can give to those we love. It doesn’t cost much. And we give it every time we stop what we’re doing and turn our full attention to them. For more encouragement, visit Proverbs31.org.

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Seeds

Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

It’s amazing what you can learn from something as small as a little seed in its packet. Hi I’m Lysa TerKeurst with Proverbs 31 Ministries. The packet is comfortable. Then the farmer comes along and plucks the seed out and pushes it into a deep, dark, messy place. The seed cries out, "What are you doing? This is unfair."Then the farmer pours so much water over the seed that it breaks apart. It cries out again but the farmer seems cruel and silent.

Just when the seed starts to lose hope a green shoot bursts from the ruins. It grows and blooms and becomes all that it had the potential to become.So, was the farmer mean and cruel? Or did he have the seed's best interest in mind?

Isn’t that like God? He loves us so much that He can see beyond who we are to what we can become.

For more encouragement log on to Proverbs31.org.

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Leaving and Cleaving

Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Jill Tracey

The Bible says to leave our parents and cleave to our spouses – but what does that mean? Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. In the book of Genesis, God describes marriage as a man and woman detaching themselves from their families of origin and attaching themselves to each other.

A co-worker of mine recently discovered she’d never completed this process! She was talking to her mother 4 or 5 times a day and doing things just to make her parents happy. She realized she hadn’t let go of mom and dad so she could completely commit herself to her husband. My friend started a painful process of setting healthy boundaries and balanced priorities. She said it was like cutting roots that had grown strong, thick and entangled, and were much harder to cut because of the years they’d remained attached.

So, I wonder if we still have some leaving and cleaving to do. Chances are it’ll be hard - but definitely worth the work! For more marriage encouragement, click on Everyday Life at Proverbs31.org.

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When the Little Things are Big

Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

Sometimes I catch myself thinking I want to do big things for God but all I’m doing today is running carpool, doing laundry, and cooking dinner — again. Hi I’m Lysa TerKeurst with Proverbs31 Ministries. I believe there are times when God asks us to do big things. But, maybe today God is simply asking us to obey in the small things right in front of us. Running carpool without grumbling - doing laundry and seeing it for the gift it is - and cooking with a heart that’s thankful for everything that’s available to us each day. These things might not seem glamorous or big but they might be the very thing God uses to prepare us for something else. I’m convinced God wants to develop our character to match the way He wants to use us. And, if you’re anything like me, running carpools, laundry, and cooking can definitely provide opportunities for some serious character building.

For more, log on to Proverbs31.org.

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A Heart More Beautiful

Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writers: Sharon Sloan and Renee Swope

My friend, Sharon, was recently hurt by someone else’s harsh words. The criticism didn’t make any sense! Hi, I'm Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Sharon didn’t understand what was happening, so she asked God to help her.

That afternoon while she was fixing snacks, Sharon’s daughter brought her a paper heart that had scissor cuts all through it. Sharon wondered why she’d made it that way. Her daughter said, “Mommy, I made this heart for you. I put cuts in it because I thought it would be more beautiful that way.”

Sharon felt God whisper to her heart, “I’m making your heart more beautiful through the cuts and wounds I’ve allowed you to experience. Be still, be quiet and wait on me.”

Isn’t it amazing how a child’s perspective can reveal God’s love to a hurting mom? If you’ve got a story to share, we’d love to hear it. Post a comment on our radio blog. You can find it by clicking on Radio Ministry at Proverbs31.org.

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Do I trust Jesus?

Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

Sometimes it’s scary to say we want to follow God, no matter what! Hi I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. The minute we do this little scenes start flashing before us. A dirt hut. A life of poverty. Some kind of horrible tragedy to test us. A health crisis that pushes us to the brink. Loss. Pain. Extreme sacrifice.The world tells us, "Look at all you'll have to give up. And there’s no guarantee that Jesus will come through for you. Don't take this God thing too seriously.”Jesus says, "Look at all you have to gain. My love for you is all consuming; I only have your best interest in mind. Make me the center of your heart- and you will light up the world."

Ultimately, for me, it comes down to this: Do I trust Jesus? If so, doing whatever He wants - no matter what it costs me- is better than anything in the world.

For more encouragement log on to Proverbs31.org.

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A Marriage Full of Warmth

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Paula Friedrichsen

These days it’s cheaper and easier to buy a new toaster, TV, or blender, than it is to have the old one repaired! Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. When an appliance or gadget breaks in my house, we usually go out and replace it with a newer model.

Yet when it comes to marriage—newer is not necessarily better. With Valentine’s Day coming up let’s remind ourselves of the benefits of married love. In her book, The Man You Always Wanted, Paula Friedrichsen reminds us that romance novels and chick flicks focus on the thrilling stages of falling in love. But, you know, the early stages of romance don’t compare to the security of a committed relationship!

Married love may not always burn with the heat and passion of that first stage of romantic love, but it also doesn’t burn out easily. And the consistent warmth it provides is there on the coldest days and darkest nights. For more marriage encouragement, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at proverbs31.org.

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Jonah’s Big Fish

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

Sometimes it feels like our troubles are swallowing us whole! Hi I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. I was just reading about Jonah in the Bible and thinking how horrible it would be to be swallowed by a fish and spend days in its belly. But then it occurred to me, if Jonah hadn’t been swallowed by that fish, he would’ve drowned! God used what seemed horrible to save Jonah’s life. So, when we’re facing a really tough situation maybe we could ask ourselves if God could be possibly be using this to save our lives. I don’t know what you’re facing, but I’ve been through enough hard things in my life to know that God can always bring something good from it. And just like Jonah, it’s so good to know that we won’t sit around in the belly of the fish forever- there’s always more to the story than what we can see. So, let’s hang in there and hold on to God’s promise to rescue us! For more encouragement visit Proverbs 31.org.

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Expressions of Love

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

I love to get and give candy, cards and gifts in February. It’s such a fun time to express my heart to those I love most. Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. I’ve been thinking about how I can shower affection on the ones I love. Besides my husband, my kids, my parents and my close friends, I want to find creative ways to show God how much I love Him! It’s hard to give God physical gifts, but we can give him gifts from our hearts. My friend Melissa told me about a Valentine’s Day card she bought for her husband but ended up giving to God instead.

Here’s what it said: In this stressful world, yours is the presence that quiets me, the voice that calms me, the touch that comforts me, the loves that helps me remember what is most important each day. You are everything to me!

What a great way to show God our love; let’s buy HIM a Valentine’s Day card! For more ways to express your love this month, visit proverbs 31.org.

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It’s Not an Issue

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

My birthday was coming up and I knew exactly what I wanted…a new set of luggage! Hi I’m Lysa TerKeurst with Proverbs 31 Ministries.

So, I told my husband my brilliant gift idea. I even said that red would be a great color for because it would stand out on the baggage claim belt. Well, my gift arrived just in time to pack for a trip early the next morning.

However, the three pieces of luggage were in three DIFFERENT SHADES OF RED! Clearly, his definition of the word SET was a bit different than mine.

Well, you'll be proud of me. I smiled and hugged and wiped a tear (though not for the reason he thought!) And I toted that mismatched set with a chuckle in my heart for years! Why? Because in the grand scheme of things- did it really matter? I’m learning that not everything needs to made into an issue and my marriage is better for it. For more marriage encouragement, log on to Proverbs31.org.

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Welcome Neighbor!

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

How many of us actually know our neighbors? Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. These days it seems like families move all the time. I’ve noticed that my neighbors are constantly changing, and most of them don’t have friends or family in the area. So, the closest friend nearby is…me!

I remember what it was like to be new in town. It was lonely and everyone seemed too busy to need a friend. So, I’ve been looking for ways to make my neighbors feel welcomed. Here are some things I’ve done:

First, I acknowledge their presence by simply waving hello. Then a few days later I bring over a basket of cookies with a welcome note tucked inside. I include a list of our favorite nearby restaurants and phone numbers for those that deliver. Sometimes I leave a map of the neighborhood and recommendations for shopping, doctors and dry cleaners. And, oh yeah, I always try to smile when I see them. For more encouragement in your Everyday Life, visit Proverbs31.org.

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Friendship Fun

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

I was talking to my friend, the Gourmet Chef, today. I call her that because she’s always making something wonderful! Hi I’m Lysa TerKeurst with Proverbs 31 Ministries. Two weeks ago it was Baklava. Last week, chocolate covered cherries. I thought those were only made in factories! And, today she was making something fancy with molasses. I said, “Oh yeah, I’ve got a tube of that!”

Obviously, my talents lie outside the kitchen. Sometimes I feel inadequate when I struggle in an area where others are gifted. But I’ve learned to stop beating myself up! I get advice from those who naturally excel in areas where I don’t. And, when I discover something I’m good at I can help someone else. Isn’t that the beauty of friendship? My friend, the Gourmet, often asks for my help with public speaking. And she’s taught me that Molasses comes in a jar and there are some yummy things that can be made with it. For more encouragement log on to Proverbs31.org.

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Immediate Love

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Tracie Miles

After years of begging for a pet, Morgan’s parents finally gave into their kids’ pleading and bought a hamster. Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Morgan’s heart immediately filled with love for this little creature, named Peanut, who she didn’t even know existed a few days earlier. With every waking moment, Morgan cared for Peanut’s needs and gave him the love and attention he wanted. Their adoption of this little hamster showed the whole family how quickly we can love something, even though it’s done nothing to deserve our love.

You know, God’s love for us is the same. He waits for us to find Him, then showers more affection on us than we ever thought possible. If we can love an adopted pet in such a short time after they come into our home, just imagine how much more our Heavenly father wants to lavish love on us when we come into His family. For more reminders of how much God loves you, visit Proverbs31.org.

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Who Needs to Meet Jesus Through our Lives?

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

Isn’t it amazing that God chooses to work through us to reach the people in our lives? Hi I’m Lysa TerKeurst with Proverbs 31 Ministries. Recently I had the privilege of speaking at a very special event. There were many things about this night that were wonderful- the décor, food, and the music.

But it was the obvious presence of God that took my breath away.

The women who organized the event had all invited friends and family members who didn’t have a relationship with Christ. I'm sure some of them were nervous about inviting their friends to a church event. But God took their efforts and did something BIG!

Ninety women started an eternal life-saving relationship with Jesus!

I was deeply impacted by this evening. And, I was challenged. I wondered who is in my sphere of influence that might need to meet Jesus. Maybe I need to step out and invite someone to a special event at my church and leave the results to God. For more encouragement log on to Proverbs31.org.

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I Want What I Want!

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

Ever heard your child say something like…I want what I want, when I want it? Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Those were the words of three-year old Molly who was growing more determined every time her mom told her “no!” Boy can I relate! I want what I want, when I want it! And I’m not alone.

The Bible tells us of a woman named Sarah who wanted to have a baby. And, God promised to give her one. But Sarah was beyond child-bearing years so she decided to help God out by insisting that her husband have a child with her servant.

Well, Sarah eventually got what she wanted, but it wasn’t what she wanted after all! She was miserable and blamed it on her husband and her servant.

Sometimes we take things into our own hands because we think God can’t handle them, or at least not the way we want Him to. Today, let’s choose to trust God to give us what He wants, when He wants to. For more encouragement, visit Proverbs31.org.

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The Greener Grass

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

I think about this statement often, "The Grass isn't greener on the other side. The grass is greener where you water and fertilize it." Hi I’m Lysa TerKeurst with Proverbs31 Ministries. This challenges me to think, "How have I been watering and fertilizing my marriage recently?" Worth pondering I think! Especially since I’m celebrating my 15th wedding anniversary this year.

We’re going out to dinner. Somewhere cheap and fast, as we've got a whole clan of kids that’ll need help with life shattering emergencies--- such as what color did Hannah Montana wear on her show today? Who played with who on the playground? And, can we spot our teenage son a little gas money?

Anyhow, we’ll have a few stolen moments to celebrate our very rich lives. All because two people fell in love and make a choice most days to stay that way. If you’d like some ideas on loving your husband and helping your marriage thrive, log on to Proverbs 31 Ministries and click on Everyday Life at Proverbs31.org.

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