Careless Words Are Costly

Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

Careless words can be costly. Hi I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. “A landmark study suggests friendships between women are special. They shape who we are and who we are yet to be. They soothe our troubles, fill the emotional gaps in our marriage, and help us remember who we really are.”

What a gift! Why would we ever want to trade the beauty of all that friendship offers for just a few careless words?

The Bible says, “Don’t let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.” Oh how this challenges me to really think about the words I speak. My words should be helpful, considerate, and encouraging.

My friendships are special and worthy of my very best words. For more friendship encouragement visit Proverbs31.org.

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Moms Desperate for God

Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

Being a mom can leave me feeling desperate for God’s help! Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries.

After having three little boys within five years, my friend Glynnis felt overwhelmed but a little embarrassed that she didn’t know what she was doing.

She was so relieved when her church offered a parenting class but she wanted more! The problem was there wasn’t anyone to lead a whole parenting program, so Glynnis’ pastors asked her and her husband to help.

Although they didn’t feel qualified, they were desperate to try anything to get support. And they even told people they weren’t perfect parents. But when they shared their struggles openly, they got Godly advice and practical ideas that really helped them God wants us to be honest with Him and with others when we feel overwhelmed and need help. We don’t have to wait until we’re desperate – we can go to God each day and ask for what we need!

For more encouragement log on to Proverbs31.org.

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All Caulked Up

Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

Is it really that important to read the Bible everyday? Hi I’m Lysa TerKeurst with Proverbs 31 Ministries. I was reminded of how crucial it is for me to read the Bible everyday through a set of rather strange circumstances. A couple of years ago the toilet in our upstairs bathroom overflowed causing part of the kitchen ceiling below to collapse. What a mess!

The repair man told us that the reason the water escaped and caused so much damage is that the caulking was old and cracked. He re-caulked the bathroom and encouraged us to maintain this regularly. Would you believe just one year later that same toilet overflowed? Only this time no water escaped and no ceilings fell in. The caulking was secure.

God’s words are like caulking in my brain preventing damaging thoughts from running rampant and making me feeling like me to read the Bible everyday, it’s crucial.

For more encouragement, visit Proverbs31.org.

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Encouragement for Today

When God Shows Up

Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

My son was feeling discouraged and there was nothing I could do to help! Hi, I’m Renee Swope with Proverbs Ministries.

It’s so hard for me when my kids feel down. I try to encourage them with a funny story or a favorite snack. But sometimes, nothing helps. Sometimes all God wants me to do is pray and ask Him to be there for my child.

When this happened the other day, I prayed that God would show up in some way to encourage my son’s heart. I didn’t know it, but my son was praying the same thing. Late that afternoon we were driving somewhere when Andrew noticed the sun setting. It was absolutely brilliant. And angled next to it, there was this delicate golden ring that looked like a halo. I had never seen anything like it.

Andrew said, “That is my sign. I prayed that God would give me a sign that He is with me and He did!”

Let’s ask God to show up today and watch to see how He does. For more encouragement, visit Proverbs31.org.

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Worn Out

Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

Sometimes I get so tired and grumpy I find myself snapping at everyone. Ever been there? Hi I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. We don’t want to act that way and yet constant demands can make emotions high and spirits low. One day I was asking God to help me. Suddenly the word thanksgiving popped into my head. So, I started listing things that I’m thankful for.

It felt a little silly. I wanted some deep theological truth to chew on and ponder. I wanted a big lightning strike of revelation. I wanted an instant fix. But here I was in this basic exercise.

And something amazing happened. The more I verbalized what I was thankful for, the less cloudy my heart felt. Now when I start feeling stressed out and snappy, I make myself start listing off the things I’m thankful for. And it’s amazing what thanksgiving will do to redirect a worn out woman. For more visit Proverbs31.org.

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Helping A Child Who Worries

Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

What do you tell a child who is feeling anxious? Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries.

My son just told me that he didn’t want to have ANY anxious thoughts today – he didn’t want to worry about me being here when he gets home from school, or about his teacher liking his science project.

I remembered some words from the Bible that encourage us to take every thought captive and make it obedient to Christ. Well, that seemed like a really hard concept for a kid so I tried to put it in terms he could understand.

I told him, “When you have a thought that makes you feel anxious, catch it like it’s a baseball.” I then cupped my hand like I was holding a ball and told him to look at it and ask, “Is this something Jesus would say to me?” If the answer is no, then throw that thought back into the outfield!

He smiled so big and said - Thanks Mom - as though all his worries were gone.

For more encouragement, visit Proverbs31.org.

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Priorities

Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

It’s so easy to say that I make reading my Bible a priority every day but, if I’m honest, sometimes life’s demands distract me. Hi I’m Lysa TerKeurst with Proverbs 31 Ministries. Have you ever struggled making time for daily Bible reading? Well, I learned a great lesson through something I taught my daughter. Day after day, I would have to remind her to feed our dogs.

Then one day it occurred to me to implement a rule in her life that would hold her accountable. “Brooke, you aren’t allowed to eat your breakfast until you’ve fed the dogs theirs.” This rule worked! And it made me think about a rule I needed to implement. “Lysa, you aren’t allowed to turn on your computer until you’ve read God’s word first.”

And, it’s a great rule for me. What’s something you find distracting you and keeping you from spending time with God? Maybe this simple rule could help you as well. For more ideas on connecting with God, go to Proverbs31.org.

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Listening to God

Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

I just love having coffee with my friend Holly. I guess it’s because she loves to listen! Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. I used to feel bad that Holly could get me to do most of the talking when we’re together, but then I realized she’s most comfortable listening. And it’s a gift. After we’re together, I always feel appreciated and encouraged.

On my way home I decided to give that same gift to God next time we’re together. I want Him feel loved, appreciated and listened to! What if after I spent time with God, He thought to Himself, “Wow, Renee really listened! She asked what I have been thinking about. Even when I tried to get her to talk about herself, she turned it around and asked about me. Then she spent 10 minutes telling me what she appreciates that I’ve done. Renee was more interested in me than she was in herself.”

Wouldn’t it be amazing if God felt loved and listened to after spending time with us? For more encouragement in listening to God, visit Proverbs31.org.

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Staying Connected

Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

Are you and your husband connected like a completed puzzle, or do you feel totally disconnected? Hi, I'm Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Remember the days before you were married when you went on dates and talked for hours about what was going on in your life? Well, why not do that now by setting aside time each week to connect? My husband and I try to plan time together each week. Sometimes we go out for dinner and some weeks we simply sit on the couch and talk. Usually we just catch up on things we’ve been thinking about or plans we want to make. It’s amazing how disconnected we feel when we miss our dates. Just like other couples, we struggle to balance our priorities that pull us in different directions and can leave us scattered like puzzle pieces on a table. Is it time for you and your husband to reconnect? Try getting some talk time this week. And, if you need more encouragement, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at proverbs31.org.

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Overcoming Failure

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

I’ve found the best way to overcome failure is to do something I’m good at! Hi I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Recently someone criticized the way I did something and I started feeling inadequate and discouraged.

Finally, I decided to do something constructive – something I knew I was good at. I took the emotions that made me feel like a failure and poured them into something God has equipped me to do well. I marched into my laundry room and folded towels, socks and shirts for my family. Then I planned our menu for the week, wrote it on our calendar and went grocery shopping.

I know that sounds simple, but by doing something physical and something for others, I replaced my negative emotions with positive steps of action. I took my eyes and my energy off something I didn’t do well and put them into a goal I knew I could achieve. I overcame my failure – and my laundry got done! For more encouragement, visit proverbs31.org.

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Even if I Don’t Love What I’m Doing

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

The other day we had to have our septic tank pumped- yuck! Hi I’m Lysa TerKeurst with Proverbs 31 Ministries. My husband and I agreed that performing this particular job would never make it onto our top ten list of desired careers. However, when we met the man that came to do the job, we were inspired.

Right off the bat he told us that though he has some yucky conditions in his line of work, he approaches each day determined to bring God joy by the way he does his job. Art came in from talking with him and told me that they’d just had an amazing conversation. He prayed with us and for us and left us feeling quite challenged. It reminded me that even if I don’t always love what I’m doing, I can do it with a love for others… because of God’s love for me. If our septic guy can do it I can too!

For more everyday life encouragement, log on to Proverbs31.org.

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Wonderful Counselor

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Melanie Chitwood

When life gets me really down, I need more than a friend. I need a Wonderful Counselor! Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. One morning as I read my Bible, God encouraged me that I was not alone as I faced different challenges. He reminded me that Jesus is my Wonderful Counselor.

I love that this is one of the names for Jesus in the Bible. When I don’t know how to be a good mom to my sons or more supportive of my husband, Jesus is my Wonderful Counselor. When I want to offer help to my friend or a family member whose life seems to be coming apart, Jesus is my Wonderful Counselor.

He’s the one I can turn to to talk about these challenges and gain wisdom and insight.

So, maybe its time we get know Jesus as our Wonderful Counselor and take whatever concerns or challenges we face to Him. For more ideas on how to do this, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at proverbs31.org.

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The Next Dr. Phil

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

I might be living with the next Dr. Phil. Hi I’m Lysa TerKeurst with Proverbs 31 Ministries. I have two sons that truly never argue. Now, before you paint unrealistic pictures of perfection for my household, know that I have other kids that more than make up for their brothers’ lack of disagreements. But Mark and Jackson don’t struggle with this. So, the other day I asked my son Jackson about how he and Mark get along so well.

His reply was quite simple. He said, “Mom, if Mark does something that gets on my nerves I just tell him that I don’t like him doing that. And then he says okay and stops doing it.”

Wow. That’s good advice. We seem to make all this relationship stuff so complicated. So, maybe I need to interject a little less complication- a little more gentle honesty- and some very basic listening skills. Thanks son.

For more relationship encouragement log on to Proverbs31.org.

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Using Your Gifts

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

Has God given you a gift that’s still in its original packaging? Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Recently a friend shared how she was hesitant to volunteer in her church because she didn’t think she had any gifts to offer. I helped her make a list of her abilities. She likes to encourage people and work with details.

We brainstormed ways she could give those gifts away. Since she’s encouraging and likes details she notices little things people do well. So she started telling people when she saw things others may not notice. She also started sending a note each week to a leader in her church describing how God appreciates the way they serve their community.

Do you have the gift of encouragement? A little note can mean so much to someone who may feel forgotten or discouraged. No matter what gifts you have, God wants you to open them up and give them away! For more ideas, visit Proverbs31.org.

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Your Dreams

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

I’m an ordinary woman. Dirty dishes, piles of laundry, and carpools greet me every day. Hi I’m Lysa TerKeurst with Proverbs 31 Ministries. Most days I wake up with peace in my heart because, despite the realities of daily life, I’ve found the purpose for which God created me. I’m living out the dreams He tucked in my heart.

God created me to be a wife, a mother, and a friend. He also created me to speak His truth and invite others to live a life that makes a difference for Jesus.

What’s your dream?

Maybe the day to start following the dreams God put in your heart is today. But, things may not change dramatically. The path to a fulfilled dream is filled with ordinary days brimming with ordinary chores… surrendered to an extraordinary God.

Oh, and if your dream has anything to do with speaking, writing, or leadership in women’s ministry, find some encouragement at Proverbs 31.org.

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Listening Out Loud

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

I was trying to listen to God, but it was so quiet - I got distracted! Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. When I listen to a friend, her voice keeps me focused on what she’s saying, but when I listen to God, I can’t hear Him audibly so my thoughts will often interrupt my listening.

The other day I decided to listen to God out loud. I asked Him questions out loud and then said out loud what I sensed His Spirit saying to me. I know it sounds crazy but it was powerful! The things I heard God speaking to my heart were verses I’ve read in the Bible, things Jesus said to His friends, and things that reminded me of God’s unchanging character. I didn’t say what I wanted to hear. I truly listened for God’s voice in my heart and then repeated it out loud.

I ended up having the most amazing day filled with joy and peace because His Words were etched in my memory. For more ways to listen to God, visit Proverbs31.org

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Fear- LESS

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

Having 5 kids I know the fear moms face on a daily basis that something might happen to one of their children. Hi I’m Lysa TerKeurst with Proverbs 31 Ministries. I know fear’s paralyzing affects; how it makes you want to tuck your kids under your wing and never let them leave your side. But I also know this isn’t how God wants us to handle our fears. It wouldn’t be healthy for my kids to never spread their wings and fly.

So, I read God’s truth found in the Bible. And, I use the words about His protection as I pray. I verbalize my trust in God. And I make the choice to rest in the assurance of His promises.

The minute fear starts to creep in and haunt my heart, I repeat this cycle. Does it mean that nothing bad will ever happen to my children? No. Does it mean that my heart can finally find peace past the fear that could consume me? Absolutely!

For more encouragement log on to Proverbs31.org.

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Leading So Kids Will Follow

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Michelle Weber

I get so excited when I actually see God working! Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. The other night my friend, Michelle, saw God work in her family.

As everyone sat down to dinner, the whining started. “I need a new notebook;” “When can I re-do my room?”

Rather than lecturing on needs vs. wants, Michelle started talking about the great day she’d had. It was nothing out of the ordinary but she simply talked about how thankful she was for each normal thing. Then she asked her daughters what they were thankful for.

There was a long pause at first, but after a little thought, they got on a roll: “I’m thankful Mom jumped on the trampoline with us,” “I’m thankful Bella didn’t get out of the yard again,” and, “I’m thankful Emily didn’t get hurt at practice.” Now they were getting somewhere!

You know, our children usually reject lessons they hear in our lectures so like my friend, Michelle, let’s lead the way and bring them along with us.

For more parenting encouragement, visit proverbs31.org.

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More Than Winning

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

A couple of weeks ago, my daughter Ashley had a gymnastics meet that didn’t go so well. Hi I’m Lysa TerKeurst with Proverbs 31 Ministries. She fell on almost every event. She scored well below her expectations and I thought there would be lots of tears at the awards ceremony. But, much to my surprise, she bounced up to me and exclaimed, “Mom, did you see I landed my vault on my feet. That’s a good thing about today.”

She then flitted off with her teammates to get ice cream. One of the other moms grabbed my arm and complimented Ashley’s good attitude. That compliment meant more to me than a neck full of gold medals. Do I want Ashley to win? Yes, of course. She had worked so hard to prepare for this meet. But, my heart still swelled with joy because seeing a good attitude displayed in the face of adversity- well that’s simply priceless. For more encouragement, click on everyday life at Proverbs31.org.

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Little Words Make a Big Difference

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

Little things we say can make a big difference! Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. My neighbor Janet had no idea how much her words would encourage me at a time when I needed them.

Janet came to my front door thirty-minutes after I left a thank you note at her house. When I opened my door, she told me it was the best thank you note she’d ever gotten and that I had a writing gift I needed to use.”

I was confused. It was only a thank you note afterall. But later that day I replayed Janet’s words in my mind and wondered if God wanted me to encourage more than one friend with my writing. Janet continued to use little words and big prayers to make a difference in my life. Eventually I wrote my first study guide to give away to 500 women at our church.

God used Janet’s words back then. I wonder how He could use mine and yours today? For more encouragement in everyday life, visit Proverbs31.org.

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It's Still a Good Day

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

Sometimes when little things don’t go my way I can make a really big deal out of it. Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst with Proverbs 31 Ministries. I’m not proud of this fact so I’ve started making the choice to say a simple statement that often diverts a bad attitude. And the statement is this, “If this is the worst thing that happens to me today, it’s still a pretty good day.”

Boy does this put things into perspective. I guess it’s an everyday way to do a little heart check up. The Bible tells us that we should intentionally make our minds think of things that are good, true, excellent, and praiseworthy. The more I think about things like these, the more my perspective seems to stay in check. So, what aggravation are you facing today? If that’s the worst thing that happens- I bet you could say it’s still a pretty good day too.

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

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Making Time

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Rachel Olsen

How can I find time to spend time with God? Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. And, I don’t know about you but I’ve come to the conclusion that I’ll NEVER actually find time for God; I have to make the time because there’s always something or someone else needing my attention or calling my name.

I’ve learned that making time for God is a choice and a matter of discipline. Someone once said, “A lazy man does not, will not, can not pray, for prayer demands energy.” What a simple but profound statement, reminding me that when I don’t spend time with God, it’s usually because I don’t want to expend the energy on it.

So, I need to make time in my day to be with God, to read the Bible and pray. In fact, I’m going to challenge myself this week to spend time with God every morning before I head to work. Do you want to take this challenge with me? Let me know on our radio blog, at proverbs31.org!

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Blue Satin Shoes

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

Recently at my youngest daughter’s choir performance, I scanned the row of neatly dressed children in uniforms and black shoes. But then some blue satin shoes, three sizes too big, caught my attention. Hi I’m Lysa TerKeurst with Proverbs 31 Ministries.

My husband noticed the shoes at the same moment and leaned over to whisper, “What is our daughter wearing?”

It appears she had decided that her outfit needed a little ‘pizzazz.’ In that moment I had a choice to get all caught up in the I’m such a bad mom dialogue… “good moms know what kind of shoes their daughter has on before she clunks across stage.” Or, I could see it as a funny memory we’ll enjoy talking about forever.

As a mom I’m learning to let only God’s truth define me and my kids. So, if you see me in the grocery store this week wearing some blue satin shoes of my own, just high five me. For more encouragement log on to Proverbs 31.org.