What Could I be Missing?

Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

I wonder if I ever miss out on something God wants to give me because I’m not in a place to receive it. Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries.

Recently I was trying to connect with my son’s teacher to give her a wedding gift before she moved away. No matter how hard we tried, something would go wrong and we’d miss each other. Finally, we decided to meet at her apartment on the day she was moving.

Well, when I got there, she was gone. I didn’t have her phone number with me, so I couldn’t call her. After waiting a while, I went home and found a message on our voicemail saying she’d gone to lunch and stayed longer than she’d planned.
It’s not that she didn’t want the gift - it’s just that she wasn’t in a place to receive it.

You know, I’m sure there are some gifts God wants to give me. Sometimes I just have to make sure my heart is in a place to receive them.

For more, visit Proverbs31.org.

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Everyday Life Encouragement, Hearing God, by Rachel Olsen

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A Simple Prayer

Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

I’ve found something that gets me going in the morning that’s even better than coffee! Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst with Proverbs 31 Ministries. Recently I started saying a very simple prayer when I wake up and I’m amazed at how it’s changed my mornings! Here’s what I say: “Lord I want to see You. I want to hear You. I want to know You. So I can follow hard after You.”

This prayer isn’t a magic formula. It just expresses my desire to really experience God. I want to see Him working in and through me. I want to hear Him speak to my heart. I want to know Him- not just about Him. And, I want to follow Him no matter what happens.

When I verbalize my heart’s desire this way, something inside of me shifts and I’m ready for the day. For more, click on Lysa’s blog at Proverbs 31.org.

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Free devotion, Praying the Word of God, by Wendy Blight

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Parenting on My Knees

Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

I woke up at 2:15 this morning and couldn’t get back to sleep. Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries.

My mind was tossing and turning with concerns and prayers for my son who's going through a hard time. It's all part of being the mom of a teenager. I’d prayed for him before he went to bed, asking God to be real to my son. I’d asked God to protect his heart and mind and to help us navigate this new parenting phase as our son becomes the man God created him to be. I fell asleep praying and woke up praying.

I know I can't talk my child out of how he's feeling. I can't give him a promise from the Bible and expect it to make him happy. I can't deny or figure out what he's going through. The best thing I can do is pray, and love him. And pray some more. I have a feeling I'm gonna be parenting on my knees a lot these next few years.

For more parenting encouragement, visit Proverbs31.org.

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Everyday Life Encouragement, Spiritual Warfare and Praying for Your Kids, by Jennifer Leigh Ryan

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Jesus Everyday

Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

It sounds good to have the kind of peace Jesus promises in the Bible. But, is it really possible in the midst of real life? Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Overflowing laundry bins, rushed carpool schedules, a call from one child who forgot their lunch and another who forgot their homework. Oh and by the way don’t forget that you signed up to take dinner to a friend tonight--- which means a trip to the grocery store.

Whew! I don’t know about you, but what I need in my day…is a little peace. And, I’ve found the only way I can have peace despite my circumstances is when I intentionally set aside time to read my Bible and ask Jesus to help me.

He’ll give us the comfort we’ll need. I guess we can think of it as the gift of His peace, packaged up just for us. For more, log on to Proverbs 31.org.

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P31 Magazine

A Friend’s Permission

Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

I got an email from a good friend this week, strongly encouraging me to take some time off from work to finish a project I’ve been trying to get to for months! Hi, I’m Renee Swope with Proverbs 31 Ministries. Lysa knew I’d had a very stressful month. I'd been traveling a lot and just couldn’t keep up with life and family and work. She was concerned because she knew I was frustrated by the fact that I’d had to keep postponing this project. It seemed like one unexpected need after the other just kept coming up. She also knew it would be hard for me to take time off work to do something I really “wanted” to do instead of something I “needed” to do.Ya know, sometimes we need a friend who’ll give us permission to do something for ourselves. As soon as I read Lysa’s email I knew it was what I needed to do. It was permission from a friend and direction from God to take a break and do something I enjoy.

For more thoughts on friendship visit Proverbs31.org.

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Free Devotion, An Unhurried Life, by Glynnis Whitwer

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Love is a Choice

Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

Before I got married, I prayed that my husband and I would always feel in love. Boy was I naive! Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Now don't get me wrong, I love my husband. But the ooshy gooshy feelings aren't always there in the pressures of everyday life. During the past 17 years, there have been times when we’ve had to make the choice to hang on when our FEELINGS of love were down to just the tiniest of threads. Other times those love feelings were strong and it seemed inconceivable that they’d ever unravel. Most days, our love has been a choice to retie the knots that bind us. The beautiful thing about making the choice to love is the feelings often catch up, rush in, and take us by surprise. Yeah, love is a good choice! For more visit Proverbs31.org.

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P31 Magazine

She Smiles

Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

When you think about all you have going on this week, do you have anything planned that makes you smile? Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries.

The other day I was reading about the Proverbs 31 woman. Among all her great qualities, one thing I love is that that Bible says she “smiled at the days ahead.”

It made me wonder how I can make sure I have something to smile about in the midst of my busy week. It’s so easy to let my days get filled with tasks and my heart gets buried in busyness. I have to schedule time to stop all my running around and do something fun, sometime I can look forward to like shopping with friends, playing games with my kids, or going on a date with my husband.

So what do you enjoy doing that you haven’t done in a while? Is there something fun you can plan in the next few days that you will look forward to – something that will make you smile at the days ahead?

For more encouragement, visit Proverbs31.org.

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Free devotion, Connecting with Friends, by Renee Swope

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Delighting Ourselves in the Lord

Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

I got a phone call this week that I'd been waiting to get for more than 15 years! Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. And while I'm thrilled, I'm painfully aware of the potential for disappointment as well. You see this call was full of possibility without any guarantees.I had to wonder; why is it so difficult when I build something up in my mind and then it all falls apart? My guess is that it’s because I think what I’m hoping for will finally fulfill me. So, what if this call gets my hopes up only to get another “no” answer?

Well, then I’ll have to see it as a gift. Maybe it’s God’s way to protect me or provide something better, or just part of the process of growing me closer to Him. It’s not easy- but I have to remind myself everyday to put my total trust only in God. For more, visit Proverbs31.org.

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P31 Magazine

From Doubt to Dependence

Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

Do you ever doubt yourself with thoughts like “I’m not good enough” or “I’m not smart enough?” Hi, I’m Renee Swope with Proverbs 31 Ministries.

I recently surveyed over 1200 women about their self-doubts. Ninety percent said they often think things like, “I can’t do that.” ”I’m not good enough,” or “I’m not gifted enough.”

I’ve definitely felt that way and I used to beg God to take away all my doubts but, so far, He hasn’t.

Over time I’ve realized that instead of taking them away God uses my self-doubts to help me depend more on Him. When doubt fills my thoughts, I start to feel stuck. The only thing that helps me get unstuck is when I turn to God for help. It helps me to be honest with Him about how I’m feeling. Then I look for verses in the Bible that give me confidence.

Struggling with doubt can lead us to depend on God to help us stop listening to self-critical thoughts and start listening to His thoughts instead.

For more encouragement, click on Renee’s Blog at Proverbs31.org.

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Extreme Temptation

Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

I’m really good at avoiding temptation…as long as I stay away from the things that tempt me! Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. I've been on a very strict eating plan for several months now. It’s been challenging for sure- But, while I was on vacation this past week it became almost unbearable!

In a moment of extreme desperation, I realized I was relying on my own strength, a strength that’s failed me before and would fail me again. I had to grab hold of God's strength and invite His power into the situation. So, I gave God control by saying promises from the Bible how He wants to help us in our struggles.

You know it’s still really hard at times but I’m so glad God is helping me. For more encouragement visit Proverbs31.org.

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Saying Yes, Saying No

Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

How do we decide what to say yes to and what to say no to? Hi, I’m Renee Swope with Proverbs 31 Ministries.

I’m convinced that one of the main reasons our lives get out of balance is because we have a hard time saying no. It just comes natural for us to be multi-taskers and people-pleasers. I don’t think I know any woman who doesn’t want to be there for everyone she knows whether at work, or church or friends. And I’m right there with her. I don’t wanna disappoint anybody. And for some reason I feel like I have to be it all and do it all.

But the truth is – I can’t. So, I’m learning to say no to a lot of requests for my time. That way I’ll have the energy and emotion I need to give to those closest to me. I know I’ll disappoint someone but I won’t be as likely to disappoint those I love most - which includes God and my family.

For more ideas on balancing life visit Proverbs 31.org.

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Notes in My Bible

Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Melissa Milbourn

Do you ever write notes in your Bible? Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst with Proverbs 31 Ministries. Now, I have to admit I was hesitant when I first thought about marking up my Bible. But I’ve found it really makes my time reading the Bible so much more meaningful.

As I read verses that seem to apply to something I’m going through or that touch my heart in some way, I underline them and make notes in the margin. Doing this makes the Bible seem so personal- like God is speaking directly to me about my life. And you know what--- He is! Recently I even found a verse in the Bible where God clearly instructs us to write down everything we’re learning from him.

Now when I go back and look at the verses I’ve underlined and notes I’ve written my faith is strengthened as I remember all the many ways God has met with me personally.
For more encouragement visit Lysa’s blog at Proverbs31.org.

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More than a Story

Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

Sometimes I wonder if my kids think the Bible is just another storybook. Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries.

I had to smile and thank God one afternoon when He showed me that wasn’t the case. You see my son Joshua, who was eight at the time, told me he was writing a book. It was about a little boy who got stung by a jellyfish and was afraid to go back in the ocean. Josh said that night the boy read about David in the Bible and asked God to give him courage, and the next day he went swimming.

Joshua’s fourteen now and I pray all the time that God will keep showing him the Bible offers hope for everything we face. Just like the boy in his book, I pray my son will go to God and read His Words for courage when life stings. I pray he’ll know that the Bible isn’t just a collection of stories, but a collection of God’s promises and principles to guide us through life.

For more encouragement, visit Proverbs31.org.

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Peace

Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

Here’s a news flash: whether you have one child or five some days get a little wacky! Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst with Proverbs 31 Ministries and I’m sure that’s not really earth shattering news for you. But, isn’t it good to know we’re not alone? I don’t know about you but there are some days where I feel all I do is bounce from one situation to the next.

So, how do we find peace? I know when I take the time to pray and study my Bible in the morning; I’m prepared to face life. Those days I don’t start off with Jesus…well, my reactions are more harsh, my perspectives a little more self-centered, and my emotions a lot more on edge.

If my heart has been prepared with God’s perfect help, it produces a peace that helps me handle everyday- even the wacky ones. Do you need encouragement as a Mom? Find some by clicking on Lysa’s blog at Proverbs 31.org.

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Just Enough Light

Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

When I’m going through something really hard, I want God to show me how it’s all going to work out! Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries.

I realize that me seeing how God’s gonna take care of things ahead of time requires very little faith, but that’s just how I feel sometimes. Like recently we’ve sensed God leading our family to adopt a baby from Ethiopia. We’re so excited but I’ve also been concerned about all the changes this will bring. I haven’t had a baby in a really long time!

The other day I was telling my husband about my worries and how I want God to show me how all the pieces are gonna fall together. JJ reminded me that sometimes God gives us just enough light for the step we’re on. When we take that step, He gives us light for the next step, and then the next.

Is God asking you to take a step of faith? I know it can be hard. If you’d like some encouragement, click on Renee’s blog at Proverbs31.org.

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Stabbing Words

Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

Why are girls SO mean? Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. I remember being in middle school and feeling the sting of a classmate's stabbing words. This girl was vicious. Without any care at all for my feelings she tossed her cruel words out to anyone who’d listen. Well, it's been a long time since I've walked the halls of that middle school. But sadly, I’ve noticed that being mean is NOT just an issue with teenagers!

It’s easy to get caught up in judgmental thoughts and harsh attitudes towards others. But, you know, whether it's about the people on the front of the tabloids or a friend who’s done something we don’t understand... no matter what, we were made for more than cheap words of judgment.

Imagine how much hurt would vanish if we committed ourselves to saying positive and encouraging words TO each other and ABOUT each other every day. For more ideas on giving up gossip, visit Proverbs31.org.

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A Little Goes a Long Way

Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

I love to start my day with a 30-minute jog. Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries.

Some mornings, I don’t have 30 minutes to spare so I don’t go running. I figure if I can’t jog for 30 minutes, I might as well not go at all. Well, yesterday I didn’t run and by 3 o’clock I had a headache and felt terrible. I only had 15 minutes left before my kids got home from school, but I knew the exercise would make me feel better. So I went running even though I only had a little bit of time.

Afterwards, I felt great! That little bit went a long way.

Ya know, the same thing happens when it comes to reading my Bible. Some mornings I only have a little bit of time so I decide to wait until later. But, by the afternoon I can really feel the difference in my attitude and emotions.

Now I realize that no matter how little time I have, I need to use it! Because a little goes a long way!

For more encouragement, visit Proverbs 31.org.

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What I Do Know

Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

Have you ever wanted to ask God, “why is this happening?” Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. I like to live stories that have inspirationally tidy endings. I like to walk through a struggle, see the good from it, label my lesson, and pack it away. But some things unfold in messy heaps leaving us frustrated and waiting. So, what do we do with those lingering struggles that can be hard to understand?When I don’t have the answers, I have to make the choice to settle my mind with what I do know. I do know God is a God of protection, provision, and promise. So that's where I must intentionally park my mind, my emotions, and my trust. I can pack up my run away questions and hand them over to my perfectly capable and all wise God every time. For more daily insights, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries and click on Lysa’s blog at Proverbs 31.org.

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How Can I Do It All?

Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

If you ever figure out how to get everything done…Please tell me your secret! Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries.

Sometimes my life is more than I can manage. It’s usually because I’ve overcommitted or expected too much of myself and I’ll start feeling like I can’t keep up with everyone or everything!

Do you ever feel like that?

Recently I decided to slow down and apply something I’ve read in the Bible about acknowledging God in all my ways. Each week I try to take time to sit with my calendar and ask God to help me plan my days. I need Him to show me His priorities and help me figure out what’s realistic for me to get done.

Now when I write out my schedule, I also leave room for any unexpected plans God might have for me. And if I can’t do everything I planned for one week, then the next week I plan less and ask God to help me again.

For more ideas on balancing life, visit Proverbs31.org.

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Free devotion, Her Children Arise and Call Her Busy, by Sandy Cooper – She Speaks Graduate

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The Crucible of Perseverance

Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

When I was in college I took an economics class that confirmed my decision NOT to major in business. Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. I couldn't process the micro or macro economic principles. Nothing connected and I was failing. So, I called my Step Dad and pleaded my case for dropping this nightmare class. But, he said, "No, Lysa. If I let you drop this class, I’d be doing you a terrible disservice. There are lessons that can only be learned when you're placed in the crucible of perseverance." It’s true. I know I find myself too often avoiding challenge for fear of failure. Some things may not be easy for us and we may never learn to do them perfectly. But, perfection comes from strengths we knew we had. Perseverance comes from tapping into something inside us we're surprised we had. And that’s worth discovering.

For more encouragement visit Proverbs 31.org.

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Rain, Rain…Go Away!

Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Jill Tracey

So, how’s the weather where you live?

Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries.

Not too long ago we went through this strange pattern of weather. One day it would be sunny, a little breezy, and gorgeous. The next day it would rain and thunderstorm all day. Then the next day would be beautiful again and the day after that…back to chilly and stormy.

It went on like that for more than a week, which made it hard to plan outside activities. But, I also noticed how much the weather affected my mood from day to day. On the days that were beautiful, sunny and warm, I had so much energy. And on those dark, cool, wet days… I could have slept all day if I had the chance.

Does the weather ever affect you like that? What about your kids? And, how do you handle it? I’d love to hear your suggestions and your rainy day family ideas as well. You can email them or blog them through the Proverbs 31 Ministries web site at Proverbs31.org.

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The Impact of a Teacher

Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

I’m not sure if school teachers realize just how much they shape the lives they touch. Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst with Proverbs 31 Ministries. Recently my middle school daughter Ashley was happily cutting, taping, painting and turning a couple of 2 liter bottles into the shell of a rocket.
Her hands had a steady confidence and her heart was full of wonder.

This is the same girl who pulled the covers over her head and told me she was done with school just a few short months ago. That was before Mrs. Lacado's class. When Ashley felt she couldn't, Mrs. Lacado assured her she could. When Ashley had but a spark of success, Mrs. Lacado fanned it into a burning passion for learning. You know, I’d be so excited if God chose to use me today to be His voice of truth, compassion, and assurance, just like Mrs Lacado. For more, visit Proverbs 31.org.

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