The Family Tool Kit

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

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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The Bathtub is Overflowing but I Feel Drained by Lysa TerKeurst

Mining for Gold in the Heart of Your Child (CD and Character Chart) by Renee Swope

Be Your Child’s Greatest Cheerleader, Free devotion by Van Walton

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

When You Don’t Know What to Pray: How to Talk to God about Anything by Linda Evans Shepherd

His Princess – Prayers to My King by Sheri Rose Shepherd

Rejoice With Her

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

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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Small Acts of Grace by Alice Gray

Greater Love: An Easter Miracle on Main Street, Free devotion by MaryBeth Seal

The Friends We Keep: A Woman’s Quest for the Soul of Friendship by Sarah Zacharias Davis

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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Mining for Gold in the Heart of Your Child message on CD by Renee Swope

Moving with Kids: Trivia Guide, Free devotion by Renee Swope

The Five Love Languages of Children by Gary Chapman & Ross Campbell, M.D.

Rude or Respectful?

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

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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Am I Messing Up My Kids?...and other Questions Every Mom Asks by Lysa TerKeurst

Keep Communication Open with your Kids, Free devotion by Leigh Gray

Mining for Gold in the Heart of Your Child (CD and Character Chart) by Renee Swope

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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Get Over It and Get On With It by Michelle McKinney Hammond

Anger Management for Moms, Free devotional by Rachel Olsen

Love Your Neighbor as Yourself - Blessing Your Neighborhood through Love & Prayer by Mary Lance V. Sisk

Is It Possible to See God?

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

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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Becoming More than a Good Bible Study Girl by Lysa TerKeurst

Lead Me Lord, Free devotion by Wendy Blight

Jesus Lives: Seeing His Love in Your Life by Sarah Young

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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Helping Siblings Serve Together, a free devotion by Glynnis Whitwer

Sponsor a child with your children or sibling through Compassion International

Family Driven Faith: Doing What it Takes to Raise Sons and Daughters Who Walk with God by Voddie Baucham Jr.

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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Leading Women to the Heart of God by Lysa TerKeurst

Do You Hear Him Calling, Free devotion by Tracie Miles

Becoming the Woman God Wants Me to Be: Guide to Living the Proverbs 31 Life by Donna Partrow

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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Do You Want to Get Well ?, Free devotion by Wendy Blight

What Happens When Women Walk in Faith by Lysa TerKeurst

The Woman I Am Becoming by T. Suzanne Eller

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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Becoming More than a Good Bible Study Girl by Lysa TerKeurst

A Sunny Perspective, Free devotion by Lysa TerKeurst

The Air I Breathe: Worship as a Way of Life by Louie Giglio

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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God’s Purpose for Every Woman by various Encouragement for Today authors, Gen. Ed. Lysa TerKeurst and Rachel Olsen

Learning Contentment, Free devotion by Amy Carroll

Authentic Parenting in a Postmodern Culture by Mary DeMuth

A Parable for Your Child

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

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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The Bathtub is Overflowing but I Feel Drained by Lysa TerKeurst

Why Don’t We Pray Together?, a free devotion by Holly Good

Love Notes in Lunchboxes by Linda Gilden

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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Room Enough For Jesus Free devotion by Micca Campbell

His Princess, Love Letters from Your King by Sheri Rose Shepherd

What Happens When Women Say Yes to God by Lysa TerKeurst

Following Instructions

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst

Contributing Writers: Lysa TerKeurst with Amanda Waldroop

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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The Bathtub is Overflowing but I Feel Drained by Lysa TerKeurst

The Gift of Prayer, Free devotion by Renee Swope

Into the Word, Free devotion by Rachel Olsen

A 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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Love Notes for Family Folks, Free devotion by Sara DuBose

Mining for Gold in the Heart of Your Child by Renee Swope

Am I Messing Up My Kids? by Lysa TerKeurst

Good Money Management

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst

Contributing Writers: Amanda Waldroop

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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Accepting Ourselves

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope

Contributing Writers: Jill Tracey

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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Two Left Feet, Free devotion by Susanne Scheppmann

The Woman I Am Becoming by T. Suzanne Eller

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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Authentic Parenting in a Postmodern Culture by Mary E. DeMuth

The 7 Hardest Things God Asks a Woman to Do by Kathie Reimer and Lisa Whittle

Legally Blind (Re-record)

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope

Contributing Writers: Renee Swope with Gwen Smith

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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In Search of a Zesty Life, Free devotion by Rachel Olsen

A Woman's Secret to a Balanced Life by Lysa TerKeurst and Sharon Jaynes

Where are My Keys?

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst

Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

I could feel my pulse starting to race as I left the mall and realized my keys were not in my purse. How could this be? Hi I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. In that moment things looked pretty bleak but then I realized something important. While I had no control over this situation and the great aggravation it was causing, I did have control over my reaction. This is something I’ve felt challenged to work on lately so I made the choice to put on a smile and stay calm. Eventually I found a security man who graciously helped me. It took a while but we eventually found my keys. As I thanked him, he smiled and told me that he could tell something was different about me. Suddenly I realized that my lost keys were not an aggravation but an opportunity to share Jesus with this man. If you’d like more encouragement on finding God’s perspective for your life, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at proverbs31.org.

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Please Interrupt Me, Free devotion by Lysa TerKeurst

Love Your Neighbor as Yourself by Mary Lance V. Sisk

Time Flies

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope

Contributing Writers: Jill Tracey

Why can’t time fly when I’m not having fun? Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. The other day I was running on the treadmill and was sure I’d been huffing and puffing for at least 15 minutes. When I checked the timer only five minutes had passed! I was so disappointed! Why does time go slowly when I’m exercising and fast when I’m talking on the phone, playing with my kids, or watching a good movie? I guess it’s true…time only flies when you’re having fun!

As I continued jogging, I started to wonder about my time with God. Does it fly by or drag on? Do I see reading my Bible and praying as things I have to do, or do I enjoy spending time with God? Honestly, it depends on the day. In any case, whether it’s easy or hard to get started, I do always feel better when I’m done, just like after my workout! For more encouragement, sign up for our free devotions at proverbs31.org.

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Keeping Myself in the Bible, Free devotion by Renee Swope and Jill Tracey

Becoming More Than a Good Bible Study Girl Curriculum and Leaders Guide by Lysa TerKeurst