Jesus Wants to Help

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

If there’s one thing that living forty years has taught me, it’s this: EVERYONE has issues. Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst with Proverbs 31 Ministries. We like to identify our shortcomings, form them into a club, and mentally beat ourselves.

If you’re like me and one of your issues is with your weight, you know what I mean. But, no matter what issue we’re dealing with, Jesus wants to help us. He really does. But we’ve got to stop beating ourselves up and determine to follow His lead.

For me, eating healthy eating has been one of the best spiritual journeys of my life. Probably one of the richest lessons I’ve learned has been realizing the amount of mental and spiritual energy I wasted for years just wishing things would change. I finally found the courage to admit I’ve craved food more than God. I identified my shortcoming and asked God for His strength to make a change. If you’re trying to get healthy right now, be inspired by clicking on Lysa’s blog at Proverbs 31.org.

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Made to Crave by Lysa TerKeurst

Raising A Manly Man

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

Are you trying to raise your son to be a Godly man? Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. It’s no secret that mothers struggle with how to raise boys! Those of us with sons agree that having positive male role models is invaluable. But that isn’t always possible. So whether you’re a single mother guiding your son to manhood, or a married mom who needs a little encouragement, author Rick Johnson has a few tips. In his book, That’s My Son, Johnson helps mothers look for ways to encourage Godly character.

“For instance, when you tell a man he’s brave, you help him become brave. So, tell your son all the things you want him to be. Say things like: ‘You’re so courageous. That was very honest! You’re a hard worker!’ Remind him of these qualities, while instilling them in him.”

For more ideas on raising kids with character, visit Proverbs31.org.

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My Big Ankles

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

I have a high school memory that haunted me for years. Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst with Proverbs 31 Ministries. There was a boy I totally had a crush on.

One day he told me that he thought I was pretty cute, but it’s too bad I have bad ankles or otherwise we might be able to go out. Excuse me? Big ankles? Well, although the memory can still sting at times, I eventually matured past my ankles bothering me.

Healthy eating and exercising gets our bodies into better shape, but we’re not supposed to find the satisfaction our souls desire from our looks. These days, I’m learning to thank God for making me just the way He made me. After all, I’ve never twisted my big ankle, and that’s a good thing! I realize the only true satisfaction we can find is to simply honor Him with the bodies He gave us!

If you’re trying to get healthy right now, be inspired by clicking on Lysa’s blog at Proverbs 31.org.

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Made to Crave by Lysa TerKeurst

How Will They Remember Me?

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

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

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

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

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

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

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

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150 lbs

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

A few years ago, I was in an exercise class when the gal next to me said she could hardly believe her sister now weighs 150 pounds. Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. That scandalous weight was my goal weight.

Like many women, I’ve struggled for years confusing my sense of worth with the number on my scale.

Finally I dedicated my healthy eating journey to God - every bite. And, after a LOT of hard work and prayer, I’m now able to step on the scale and see the numbers as an indication of how much my body weighs, not as an indication of my worth. So when I think back on my friend’s comment, I can smile. Because I am no longer defined by a number. If you’re trying to get healthy right now, be inspired by clicking on Lysa’s blog at Proverbs 31.org.

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He’s Coming Back!

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope and Van Walton

I love coming home after a long trip, and my dog Chelsea likes it even more!!! Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. We just got back from a long vacation and couldn’t wait to pick up our pooch from my mom’s house. I can’t tell you how happy she was to see us. She barked. She ran circles around us and her tail couldn’t stop wagging. She wouldn’t let us out of her sight!

My mom told me that Chelsea constantly watched the door, waiting for us to come back. In the meantime my mom fed her, walked her, and gave her lots of attention.

You know, Jesus promised that He’s coming back for those who love and follow Him. And, He’s left us in the care of His Holy Spirit, our friend and counselor. But in spite of that, I can’t wait to see Jesus when He returns. I have a feeling I am going to run and leap and dance for joy. I’ll sit at His feet and never let Him out of my sight! For more encouragement, visit Proverbs31.org.

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Christmas All Year Long

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

Is it possible to celebrate Christmas all throughout the year? Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Amidst the seemingly endless shopping and cooking and wrapping it seems like Christmas lasts and lasts. But before we know it we’ll inevitably be packing Christmas up and putting it away. I can’t help but ponder how great it would be if we could keep the Christmas spirit all year long. Minus the hustle and bustle of course!

This year I’m going to trying to let some Christmas linger throughout the year. For instance, the feeling of joy, kindness, and love. Family togetherness. My willingness to give so freely. The extra courage to share Jesus. Remembering to tell those we love just how much they mean to us. And most of all may we all carry with us throughout this year a growing love for Jesus… the real reason for this season!

And, hey, we’d like to give you a gift. Sign up for our free daily encouragement emails by visiting Proverbs 31 Ministries at proverbs31.org.

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The Gift Giver

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope and Rachel Olsen

I can’t wait to watch my family open their gifts from me on Christmas morning! Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries.

I love to see their faces light up with surprise and a sense of knowing they’re loved. I bet that’s how God feels when we enjoy the gifts He’s given us. Christmas is the perfect time to remember some of the gifts He’s given to me.

He’s given me peace: Jesus said, “My peace I give you.”

He’s given me physical life: The Bible says “God formed man from the dust and breathed into him the breath of life.”

He’s also given me eternal life: "God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.”

And He’s given me rest: Jesus says, ‘Come to me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.’ Now that’s a gift I can really use this time of year!

For more ways to thank God for His gifts, visit Proverbs31.org.

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But I Don’t Want to Wait

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

Timing can be frustrating. When it isn't right, you have to wait. And waiting’s hard. Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Last night my daughter Brooke had a friend sleep over and I let them bake a cake.

Soon there was whipping and stirring and giggling and tasting.

But it’s hard to smell a cake baking and not want to rush the process. The directions said how long to let the cake bake. But it smelled done, and it looked done.

So, the bakers talked an older sister into removing the cake from the oven. They flipped it out of the pan, covered it with icing and grabbed two plates.Suddenly, the cake became a sink hole. It just couldn’t hold up under the weight of its undone center.

There's a lesson there. I need to wait for God to say the timing’s right before I force things to happen on my own and then watch them collapse! For more, log on to proverbs31.org.

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A Parent’s Love

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Jill Tracey

Sometimes I wonder if anyone notices all the hard work I do. And then I remind myself that God always does!

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

A friend of mine was with her husband and daughter, spending time with two other families. The kids decided to put on a show for the adults. As you can imagine, it was more chaos than show. One boy played a set of drums, another played a tambourine. And another just ran around making his own kinds of noise. In the middle of it all, my friend’s daughter sang very softly into a toy microphone. Although everyone else was distracted, my friend focused intently on her daughter and heard every single word.

It reminded her that no matter how chaotic her world may be, God is her Father and He focuses intently on even her smallest attempt to make a difference.

You know, sometimes being a parent helps us understand God’s love in a whole new way! For more, visit proverbs31.org.

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This script was written by Jill Tracey, radio consultant for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Catch Jill and her husband, Jeremy, each weekday on Doing Life with the Traceys from 3-7 pm (CT), on www.wcicfm.org. Or, follow Jill’s blogs at Doing Life with the Traceys and Tell Me It’s Not Too Late.

Connect with Renee on her Blog and Facebook

Check out our Resources at P31

Find more free encouragement on our Everyday Life page

An Ordinary Window

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

About a year ago I woke up to the strangest sight. Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Etched in the condensation on my window were two perfect circles. They were joined at the center and looked like wedding bands. I couldn’t figure out how they got there.

On about the fourth morning of staring at this phenomenon there was a kind of urgency pulsing through my chest. It was a conviction to love my husband more intentionally. Not just in the convenient ways but in ways that take more thought and effort.

So, I made plans for a priority overhaul. And, for a few days, I did great. But then…the distractions of life. The circles soon disappeared and so did my resolve.

Well, the circles are back! Maybe, just maybe, Love of the most Divine kind has reached down to touch an ordinary window. For more encouragement, visit proverbs31.org.

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Out of Breath

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

Whew, I’ve been running so hard I’m out of breath!! Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries.

I’ve been running all week…running errands, running carpool, running to the store for a friend, running to Bible study and then running home to fix dinner for my family.

The other day I was so out of breath from all my running around I could barely get words out to tell my kids it was time for bed. Later that night, I was reading my Bible and came across these words “Breathe life into our lungs so we can shout Your name O Lord.”

I love that God knew just what I needed and He reminded me that it’s important to take a deep spiritual breath.

You know, we all need rest and renewal. Sometimes we just need to slow down and ask God to breathe HIS life into us again. For ideas on how you can slow down, catch your breath and let God breathe His life into your lungs, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries and click on Today’s Radio Show at proverbs31.org.

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Caught in the Rain

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

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

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

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Christmas Book Basket

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

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

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

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

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

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Mom on a Journey

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

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

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

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Simple Love

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Holly Good

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

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

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

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Taking Back Christmas

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Jill Tracey

Is it time to take back Christmas? Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries.

My friend Jill and her family were heading home one night when her 3 year old asked her to sit in back with her. And, as soon as Jill hopped in the back seat, Alyssa said, "Mommy, let's PLAY!"

Since it was getting close to Christmas, Jill suggested they act out the Christmas story. In her very best Angel voice, Jill said, "Mary! You’re going to have a baby who is God's Son. His name will be Jesus and He’ll save the world!"

Alyssa replied, "I don't have time, Angel. I'm TOO BUSY!"Jill cracked up! She knew exactly where Alyssa had heard those words before. But then she realized it was more than a funny line, it reflected that she been TOO BUSY too often. That night, Jill decided it was time for some changes.

Find out what she did and the difference it made by reading her article “Taking Back Christmas” Just click on Everyday Life at proverbs31.org!

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Visit our Everyday Life page

This script was written by Jill Tracey, radio consultant for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Catch Jill and her husband, Jeremy, each weekday on Doing Life with the Traceys from 3-7 pm (CT), on www.wcicfm.org. Or, follow Jill’s blogs at Doing Life with the Traceys and Tell Me It’s Not Too Late.

Connect with Renee on her Blog and Facebook

Check out our Resources at P31

A Rare and Treasured Gift

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

So, what’s on your shopping list this Christmas? Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries.

I’ve been looking for the perfect gift for my husband and kids this year. I was going to ask them for a wish list and even thought about asking their friends for suggestions. But one day I was cleaning house and found my answer.

I discovered several hand-written notes while I was dusting. There was a stack of birthday cards on my husband’s bedside table. Each one had words written by my sons and me describing what we loved most about him. In my son’s room I noticed a folded up piece of paper on his dresser. One of his teachers wrote a not to encourage him. My youngest son had a letter on his desk that his dad gave him months ago.

You know, words really can be a treasured gift. So, I’ve decided that’s something I definitely want to give my family for Christmas Is there someone in your life who needs the gift of your written words? For more ideas, visit Proverbs31.org.

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Waking Up Worried

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

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

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

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

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Holiday Decorating

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

If I ever forget that we all have different personalities, I just have to look down my street at Christmastime! Hi, I’m Renee Swope with Proverbs 31 Ministries. Some neighbors simply hang a wreath on the front door. Some hang bows on columns and light candles in windows. Others can’t seem to put enough stuff in their yards. First there are the three giant sized inflatable characters. Next, a dozen candy canes lining the sidewalk. Then out come the five trillion lights, and, oh MY, the house is certainly, um…festive.

I sometimes catch myself thinking critical thoughts about others holiday decorations. Have you ever done that? I try to remind myself that God has given us different personality styles that affect the way we operate - and decorate - differently. Some like to make a loud statement. Others prefer simplicity. Instead of wishing they would decorate like I do, I want to learn to appreciate our differences the way Jesus does and celebrate the many expressions of Christmas! For more holiday encouragement, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at Proverbs31.org.

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Invite Tradition into Your Home

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

If caring for our families was like baking a cake, love would be what makes the cake sweet, and tradition would be the icing on top!

Hi, I'm Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries.

Establishing meaningful traditions in our homes draw families closer together and creates wonderful memories. And, there's more! Traditions are essential in helping our children know their place in the world. Everyone's born with a desire to belong. If a child gets that need met at home, he won't wander outside the safety of the family to try to find belonging. That's where tradition comes in. Special family traditions do more for our kids’ sense of belonging than anything else. When a child knows he can count on celebrating life's victories and occasions in special ways with his family, he'll think of home as a safe and wonderful place where he always belongs.

For ideas on establishing some great family traditions visit proverbs31.org.

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Christmas without Overspending

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

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

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

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Dealing with a Loss

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

The holidays can be hard, especially when you've experienced a great loss.

Hi, I'm Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries.

Have you lost something this year? Maybe it's your job, your health, or a loved one. A loss can leave you feeling alone and empty. It can seem as if everyone around you is getting on with their lives while you're suffering alone. You might try to fill that emptiness by throwing yourself into busy holiday preparations. But, in the quiet times, your loss can overwhelm you. If you're feeling empty today, I have good news for you. Jesus wants to move into the space that was created by your loss. You may have filled that space with negative feelings, but Jesus wants to replace your sadness with comfort. Jesus wants to fill the emptiness in your life. If you'd like to know more about Him, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at proverbs31.org.

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