Totally Grumpy

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

Yesterday I acted really ugly. I was impatient. Rushed. And totally grumpy. Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries.

My daughter needed new athletic shoes so off we trotted to our local shoe store. It should have been a wonderful bonding time but instead I quickly found myself being snappy and frustrated. I was caught off guard with the high price tag of the shoes, and things just went down hill from there.

Seeing this situation as a gift for which to be thankful never entered my mind. Seeing my daughter as a gift for which to be thankful never entered my mind. Seeing the fact that she is healthy and able to be involved in athletic activities never entered my mind. It wasn’t wrong for me to feel frustrated. But my response could have and should have been different. For more thoughts visit Lysa’s Blog at Proverbs 31.org.

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If Only You Knew

Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

Sometimes I know God wants more of me but I’m not always sure how to give it to Him. Hi, I'm Renee Swope with Proverbs 31 Ministries.

I used to wonder how I could give anything to God. Then I read a story in the Bible about a woman who went to a well to get water. Jesus was there and asked her to give Him a drink. She asked how she could give Him anything since they were from different regions that hated each other. Jesus replied…If only you knew…

He said that if only she knew who she was talking to, and what offered her – she’d ask Him and He would supply the very thing He was asking for - He’d give her living water.

That showed me that when God asks for my heart, my hopes, my plans – I simply need to remember who’s asking me and respond by asking HIM to give me – His heart, His hopes, His plans. He only asks us to give what He is willing to supply. For more encouragement, visit proverbs31.org.

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His Way

Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

The other day my husband joked that he thought I was a little “hormonal.” And, I didn’t really appreciate it at the time! Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst with Proverbs 31 Ministries. I was having one of those weeks. Ever had one of those?

I had let my frustration level mount to the point where everything was bothering me. It had been a week packed with deadlines, appointments for the kids, and getting ready for my sister to come for a visit.

There are many ways I can choose to react when I’m stressed out. I can say "it's my right to be frustrated," or, I can choose to let God teach me His way in that moment. His way leads me to look at an annoying situation and say, “You know if this is the worst thing that happens to me today, it’s still a really great day.” And what a perspective change that can be for this sometimes very hormonal woman!

For more, click on Lysa’s blog at Proverbs 31.org.

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Believing God

Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

How would today be different if I really BELIEVED God? Hi, I'm Renee Swope with Proverbs 31 Ministries. Sometimes my emotional ups and downs make we wonder if I really believe God’s promises in the Bible. I know I believe in Him, but do I BELIEVE HIM?

If I actively BELIEVE God today, then I’ll trust He’s working all things out for good - even though big expenses have drained our savings account and our air conditioner just broke.

If I BELIEVE God today, I won’t be anxious when little inconveniences get in my way. Instead I’ll turn to Him for peace and I’ll thank Him in advance for helping me accomplish what has to be done.

If I truly BELIEVE God, then I’ll go to bed on time tonight, because God doesn’t want me to stay up late working. The Bible says He wants to give me the gift of rest.
So, what will your day be like when you choose to believe God? For more encouragement visit proverbs31.org.

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Do You Like Yourself?

Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

Do you like yourself? Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. It’s a really awkward question don’t you agree? But isn’t it so easy for us to pick ourselves apart and focus on those things that are not very appealing? When we do this we become hyper self-focused and take our eyes off of Jesus and His plans for us.

We can sometimes spend years trying to hide or fix what we think are personal flaws. But, wouldn’t our time be better spent learning how to make peace with who we are so those feelings of insecurity don’t become a distraction to how we live?

Jesus wants us to see ourselves as a package of unique qualities that He sees as necessary for the life He wants us to live. Yes, we might still feel insecure at times but, Jesus can take everything we give over to Him and turn it around for His good purposes.

For more encouragement visit Lysa’s blog when you visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at Proverbs31.org.

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Oh, the Portions!

Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Jill Tracey

It’s been a crazy day! With dozens of errands and work projects I feel like I am living on the go.

Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. In the midst of my hurries, I forgot my healthy lunch at home so I had to eat out. So, I decided to order the SMALL combo to at least attempt “healthy.” Well, when I got my order they gave me a HUGE drink that would have been considered a large soda a few years ago. I asked to make sure and the lady helping me said, "Oh, yeah, that's a small. Our medium and large are a LOT bigger than that!" I can't BELIEVE how large the drinks and food servings are these days. And then we wonder why we all struggle with our weight! It's crazy!!! I did make at least ONE wise dietary choice, though. I threw away half the fries!

So, how do you keep your family healthy in this world of generous portions? Share your ideas with me when you click on Renee’s blog at Proverbs31.org!

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How Difficulties Affect Us

Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

Just because we want to live for God doesn’t mean we won’t face difficult times. Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. The difference being a Christian should make is in how difficulties affect us or how we react to them. Even when life gets cloudy and uncertain we have an anchor of truth for our souls through prayer and reading the Bible. I don’t say this as the trite Christian answer. I know that God’s truth really helps!

The Bible says that people who follow God’s words are like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came, the waters rose, and the winds blew and beat against the house; yet it didn’t fall, because its foundation was built on the rock!

The rock in this story is God’s truth. It’s during hard times that reading God’s words AND following them will give us peace and security! For more encouragement visit Proverbs 31.org.

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Feeling OLD

Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Jill Tracey

Exactly how did THIS birthday get here SO fast?! Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. A friend of mine just had her last birthday in her 30’s and is freaking out a little.

She told me there’re so many things she’d always want to do before she turns 40. Visit the Grand Canyon, learn Spanish, lose those extra pounds. And, now she’s realizing that she only has ONE YEAR to do these things before the big 4-0.

Of course my friend realizes she’s already accomplished a lot and God’s given her so much. But, I think the knowledge of how quickly the years are passing has caused her to panic a little.

It’s so easy to get caught up in feeling OLD, isn’t it? And, there’ll always be things we want to do but just haven’t got around to. There are days I struggle with it too. How about you?

Find some daily encouragement at Proverbs31.org!

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Memories of My Typewriter

Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

Want to keep your kids engaged in what you’re saying? Tie it to a story from your life. Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Once my dad brought home a typewriter that I would sit at for hours typing word after word. I shared this with my kids recently and told them how this was an important clue God used in my life to eventually reveal His purpose for me. I became a writer. Like the Bible says “God had a plan for me.”

My kids loved that story and remained engaged in our discussion about what plans God might have for their lives. I think that’s why Jesus taught with stories. While it may be difficult for a child to recall a passage they just read in the Bible, most can specifically recall the details of a story.

So, why not tie a Scripture verse to a story from your life and see if it helps your kids remember. For more, visit Proverbs31.org.

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I Want to be Here and There

Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

Ever wish you could be in lots of places at once? Hi, I’m Renee Swope with Proverbs 31 Ministries.

Last week I couldn’t stop thinking about everywhere I wanted and felt like I needed to be! I was packing to go spend the weekend with a friend who's going through a terrible marriage break-up. I really wanted to go but there were also so many things that made me want to stay home.
My in-laws were coming to town for a visit. My friend Kim called to tell me her tumors had grown and that they’d found new ones. I wanted to drop everything to go be with her. And my kids had started asking why I was leaving.It’s so hard to want to be in several places at once, doing things that really matter. I guess these are times when I just need to be where I am and trust God to be where I can’t be. Even though that can be really tough!

I’d love to hear your thoughts. You can share ’em with me by clicking Renee’s blog at Proverbs31.org.

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Rest

Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

I know taking time to rest is essential but life doesn’t always cooperate. Hi I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Life is busy. Schedules are jam packed. So many things feel absolutely essential. But are they really?

I’ve been feeling challenged lately to rest more. Not just getting more sleep but having a more restful, peaceful attitude throughout my day. I just found I had gotten into this habit of rushing everywhere I went. I rush to the store. I rush to get my kids from school. Then I rush them to get their homework done, get through dinner, and finally rush to get them in bed.

Why all the hurry? Maybe I need to cut some things from our schedule? And really do it this time… Wanna join me? How have you found ways to make rest a priority?

Or do you struggle with this just like me? Hey click on Lysa’s blog at Proverbs31.org and we’ll talk about it.

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Bring It to Me

Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Marybeth Whalen

Sometimes I just want to shout, “I can’t DO THIS!”

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

The other day my friend’s son called out to her, “Mom, I can't do this!" He was working on his math in the den and she was in the kitchen washing dishes. So she told him, “If you can't do it just bring it to me."Right then, she thought, isn’t that how God responds to me when I’m overwhelmed?

He says, "If you can't do it, just bring it to Me."When I’m hurting, again God says, "If you can't do it, just bring it to Me."And when I’m confused? "If you can't do it, just bring it to Me."What a great reminder, huh? When I think I can't do something, I can bring it to God. I can take what little I can do and put it in His hands. Then I can watch Him take my meager efforts and turn them into something He can do.

To learn more about trusting God, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at Proverbs31.org.

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Become a Good Delegator

Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

When I start to feel like I can’t get everything done in my daily routine, it’s time to take an honest assessment. Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst with Proverbs 31 Ministries. I divide my tasks into three categories: Stuff only I can do, Stuff someone else can do under my guidance, and Stuff I can hand off to someone else.

Knowing the difference between these three categories has been life-transforming for me. There are lots of household chores my children are perfectly capable of handling so I don’t hesitate to get their help.

Sometimes I just have to honestly ask myself: Are there things in my life that can be delegated to others? Am I willing to ask for help? Do I need to look outside my home for someone who can help?

And, I always try to remember to pray about a creative solution when I’m looking for some relief. For more visit Proverbs31.org.

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Trust Him

Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Marybeth Whalen with Renee Swope

When God asks me to do things I don't understand, I have to decide if I’m going to trust Him or question Him.

Hi, I’m Renee Swope with Proverbs 31 Ministries

Sometimes God asks us to do things that seem unnecessary, or crazy. Like the time in the Bible when Jesus was asked to pay a tax and He responded by telling Peter to go catch a fish.

Miraculously, the exact amount needed for the tax was found in the mouth of the fish Peter caught. Now, Peter had a moment where he had to decide to accept Jesus' instructions or question them. Jesus could’ve produced the money in many different ways, but He wanted Peter to be involved.

So, when there’s something God’s asking me to do that doesn't make sense…the choice is mine. Ignore Him or trust Him.

I’m really trying to learn that I can trust that God has a plan — even when I don’t understand it.
For more encouragement, visit Proverbs31.org.

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Emotional Stability in Our Kids

Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

Whether they realize it or not, our children are looking to us for their emotional security. Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst with Proverbs 31 Ministries.

If we blur the rules based on a child’s emotional responses we are like shifting sand – unstable and ineffective.

I know this. But in the midst of everyday life it’s so hard. Kids can wear down our resolve to stick with what we know is right.

So, I have to remind myself that it’s good for the parent to be the parent. I’m not supposed to be my kids’ buddy or entertainment director… I’m supposed to be an authority in their lives. Also, I have to give myself a break when I need it. I’m much more likely to give in to them when I’m worn out. Putting these things in place helps give my kids emotional security and me emotional sanity! For more of the mom encouragement we all need, click on Lysa’s blog when you visit Proverbs31.org.

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Can I Have a Timeline?

Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Suzie Eller with Renee Swope

Sometimes I wish God would give me a timeline! Hi, I’m Renee Swope with Proverbs 31 Ministries!

Wouldn’t it be great to know that in one year, you’ll be here…five years from now you can expect this?

I don’t know about you, but for me the past several years have been filled with a lot of stuff I wasn’t prepared for. Some things were really hard, but there were also amazing moments like celebrating my mom being cancer-free and watching my first-born become a teenager.

I think God doesn’t give us a timeline is because He wants us to find purpose right where we are. In fact, the Bible says we should “number our days” so that we’ll gain a heart of wisdom.

So, yeah, I’ll always have lists and goals. But, I’m learning that my timeline will develop as I go along. I’ll ask God for wisdom and direction, but I won’t always know what’s coming -- and that’s okay!

For more, visit Proverbs31.org.

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Park Your Mind

Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

I can have such a runaway mind when I focus on my fears and blow them way out of proportion. Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Do you ever struggle with this? Throughout the Bible God instructs us to park our minds on what is true.Recently my friend, Holly heard me talk about parking your mind on God's truths and decided to write some of our favorite Scripture verses on her back door. So, each morning when I arrive for our daily run I am greeted with huge bold letters, "Park Your Mind" written across her door in permanent marker. Many different Scriptures are colorfully written all over the door reminding us of God's power and presence.

When I read those verses out loud it helps me put my fears in perspective. I’m convinced the more we fill our minds with God's truths, the more crowded out our fears will become. For more, visit Lysa’s blog at Proverbs31.org.

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Try Something New

Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

You know I’m always telling my kids to be willing to try new things. But, maybe I need to be a little more open myself! Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries.

Recently I spent a weekend with some friends who are on this crazy kick of eating only all-natural, healthy food. When we woke up the first morning, they informed me that we would not be drinking coffee; we would be drinking hot herbal tea. My caffeine-addicted body screamed – what?

I was searching for danishes and donuts when they announced we’d be eating poached eggs. I’d never eaten one of those! And in case you don’t know what that is - basically it’s a steamed egg. I wrinkled my nose and voiced my complaints but then I heard my own mommy voice say, “Don’t be afraid to try something new. “

And you know what; I’m now an official fan of poached eggs! But, I have to say I still enjoy my morning cup of coffee!

For more encouragement, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at Proverbs31.org.

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Valley of Grief

Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

I’ve been bombarded recently with the stark reality of people's fears coming to pass. Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. I have a friend dying of brain cancer. I have another friend who is nearing retirement and has been swindled out of his entire life savings. I’ve read three blogs recently that have told the tragic story of losing children. My heart breaks over these losses. Maybe you’re in a season of loss right now. I can remember going through loss and being SO angry.

Over time I’ve learned that God Himself comes to us personally when we’re afraid or grieving. Even when we can't process what life throws at us, we can know that God stays with us in our grief. He never leaves no matter how messy our grief gets. Somehow just knowing that helps me. For more encouragement, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at Proverbs31.org.

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Making Adjustments

Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

Our family’s getting ready for a huge life change and I’m so excited but…also a little overwhelmed! Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries.

As we get ready to adopt a little girl from Ethiopia I have to admit there are times when I have doubts about how things will work out. My schedule’s already really FULL with taking care of my family, working, and other commitments.

Adopting a baby means one more person who’ll need my time and attention. Of course I can’t wait to give it to her! But I have wondered what my life will look like once she’s here.

Do you ever feel like that? Has God brought new commitments into your life that require major adjustments to your schedule? I’m right there with you. I honestly don’t know what’s going to happen. But, I’m so glad that I do know that God is real and waiting for me to ask for His help!

For more encouragement, visit Proverbs 31.org.

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Trust Was the Word of the Day

Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

Last week I was up most of the night with a very sick child. Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. My daughter Ashley was supposed to be competing in a State Gymnastics Meet the next day. I know in the grand scheme of life, skipping the Meet pales in comparison to many more serious matters. But, to her this was a really big deal. One that she had worked SO hard to prepare for. And now her body was too weak to attend. So trust was the word of the day. But sometimes trust is HARD. Especially when it means taking a completely different route than what we were expecting. Are you going through some tough times right now? Are you full of questions but short on answers? Maybe we’re just supposed to say, “God I don’t like this and I don’t understand but still I trust You and that’s enough.” For more encouragement visit Proverbs 31.org.

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