Immediate Love

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Tracie Miles

After years of begging for a pet, Morgan’s parents finally gave into their kids’ pleading and bought a hamster. Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries.

Morgan’s heart immediately filled with love for this little creature, named Peanut, who she didn’t even know existed a few days earlier. With every waking moment, Morgan cared for Peanut’s needs and gave him the love and attention he wanted. Their adoption of this little hamster showed the whole family how quickly we can love something, even though it’s done nothing to deserve our love.

You know, God’s love for us is the same. He waits for us to find Him, then showers more affection on us than we ever thought possible. If we can love an adopted pet in such a short time after they come into our home, just imagine how much more our Heavenly father wants to lavish love on us when we come into His family.

For more reminders of how much God loves you, visit Proverbs31.org.

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Who Needs to Meet Jesus Through our Lives?

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

Isn’t it amazing that God chooses to work through us to reach the people in our lives? Hi I’m Lysa TerKeurst with Proverbs 31 Ministries.

Recently I had the privilege of speaking at a very special event. There were many things about this night that were wonderful- the décor, food, and the music.

But it was the obvious presence of God that took my breath away.

The women who organized the event had all invited friends and family members who didn’t have a relationship with Christ. I'm sure some of them were nervous about inviting their friends to a church event. But God took their efforts and did something BIG!

Ninety women started an eternal life-saving relationship with Jesus!

I was deeply impacted by this evening. And, I was challenged. I wondered who is in my sphere of influence that might need to meet Jesus. Maybe I need to step out and invite someone to a special event at my church and leave the results to God.

For more encouragement log on to Proverbs31.org.

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I Want What I Want!

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

Ever heard your child say something like…I want what I want, when I want it? Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries.

Those were the words of three-year old Molly who was growing more determined every time her mom told her “no!” Boy can I relate! I want what I want, when I want it! And I’m not alone.

The Bible tells us of a woman named Sarah who wanted to have a baby. And, God promised to give her one. But Sarah was beyond child-bearing years so she decided to help God out by insisting that her husband have a child with her servant.

Well, Sarah eventually got what she wanted, but it wasn’t what she wanted after all! She was miserable and blamed it on her husband and her servant.

Sometimes we take things into our own hands because we think God can’t handle them, or at least not the way we want Him to. Today, let’s choose to trust God to give us what He wants, when He wants to. For more encouragement, visit Proverbs31.org.

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The Greener Grass

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

I think about this statement often, "The Grass isn't greener on the other side. The grass is greener where you water and fertilize it." Hi I’m Lysa TerKeurst with Proverbs31 Ministries.

This challenges me to think, "How have I been watering and fertilizing my marriage recently?" Worth pondering I think! Especially since I’m celebrating my 15th wedding anniversary this year.

We’re going out to dinner. Somewhere cheap and fast, as we've got a whole clan of kids that’ll need help with life shattering emergencies--- such as what color did Hannah Montana wear on her show today? Who played with who on the playground? And, can we spot our teenage son a little gas money?

Anyhow, we’ll have a few stolen moments to celebrate our very rich lives. All because two people fell in love and make a choice most days to stay that way. If you’d like some ideas on loving your husband and helping your marriage thrive, log on to Proverbs 31 Ministries and click on Everyday Life at Proverbs31.org.

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What A Husband Needs From His Wife by Melanie Chitwood

You’re Not Alone Mom

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

A friend of mine recently told me that she wished she enjoyed being a mom as much as I do. Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries.

The truth is, I haven’t always enjoyed being a mom. I used to get so discouraged when my kids were little. Especially when they developed a mind of their own and wouldn’t listen to me. I looked at other moms who seemed to know what they were doing and wondered, “What is wrong with me?”

Other moms had children who listened when they told them no. I wondered why my child wouldn’t keep his hands to himself in the grocery store. And how could I get him to stop whining when I told him we weren’t buying anything from the toy aisle? I wondered why no one told me it would be so hard!

Do you feel discouraged today? If so, you’re not alone. The truth is being a mom is one of the hardest jobs on earth but it’s also one of the most important!

For more encouragement, visit Proverbs31.org.

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Pre-order Renee’s book, “A Confident Heart.”

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Knowing Where to Start, free devotion by Renee Swope

A Walk to Remember: Living and Leaving a Legacy of Faith, Message on DVD by Renee Swope

Friendships Breathe Life

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

Last night I received an e-mail from a friend whose mom has an advanced stage of cancer. Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries.

There really aren't any words to describe the pain that seeped through the words in her e-mail. It broke my heart.

We women need each other. We need to love, support and encourage each other. This world has plenty of things that can make us feel lonely and afraid.

So why not be the kind of person whose face is one of the first a friend sees when she closes her eyes in a time like this? The more we are this kind of friend, the more of these kinds of friends we'll attract. And when everything else is stripped away- it's our friendships that breathe life- reminders of truth- hope- and real help- back into our world. Will you join me in making a commitment to start loving others more fully?

For more encouragement visit Lysa’s blog at Proverbs31.org.

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The Plastic Knife

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope with Sylvia Basham

Have you ever cut brownies with a table knife and made a mess out of them? Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries.

I recently learned of a new way to cut brownies, and keep them in tact, while they're still warm. And you can have nice squares of chocolate with smooth edges too - when you cut them with a plastic knife.

Now that I know plastic knives have a special ability to cut warm brownies, I use them specifically for that purpose. I don't try to cut cardboard, steak, or wood with them. That’d be misusing their giftedness.

You know, God created us with unique abilities, too. But it’s so easy to compare ourselves to other women and wish we had their abilities! That’s when I misuse my gifts and try something I’m not cut out to do. And just like cutting using the wrong brownie knife, I end up with a mess.

So, instead of trying to be something I’m not, I’m learning to be content with the abilities God’s given me! For more encouragement visit Proverbs31.org.

Related Resources

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Pre-order Renee’s book, “A Confident Heart.”

Check out Renee's other Resources at P31

A Tip of Influence

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Holly Good

Don’t you love it when you do something that causes a positive chain reaction? Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries.

Last weekend I was traveling in a shuttle bus from my hotel to the airport. I mindlessly tipped the driver a few dollars as he pulled my bags from the back of the van.

After I did this, I noticed several other passengers around me who were waiting for their bags suddenly scramble in their wallets to tip the helpful driver as well. I couldn’t help but think how our seemingly small acts can influence others. Today my simple tip started a chain reaction that was obviously a positive outcome for this hardworking shuttle bus driver.

This challenged me to stop and think about how my actions, reactions, and words on ordinary day can truly have an impact on those around me. For more encouragement visit Lysa’s blog at Proverbs31.org.

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Needs or Wants

Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Jill Tracey

I’m trying to teach my kids the difference betweens wants and needs but sometimes I get in the way!

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

I’d love to blame our consumer based society for my kids’ imbalanced sense of need; but I often call things NEEDS that are really just wants. “I need a new purse. I need some shoes to go with my outfit. “

So, instead of saying I NEED I’m trying to say: “I’ve had this purse for two years. I’d like to buy a new one if we have it in the budget.” It’s not an earth shattering change…but it helps me realize a purse is not a NEED.

What I NEED is Jesus, water, healthy food, and good relationships with my husband and kids. A new purse is the icing…no, it’s the sprinkles on top of the icing on the cake of life!

I wonder if I change my own thinking that’ll I can help my kids change theirs!

For more on balancing your priorities, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at Proverbs31.org.

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

What Makes Me Feel Loved?

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

Recently I asked my son what makes him feel loved and his answer showed me something I’d never thought about! Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries.

Andrew’s answer was simple. He said that me being with him and me being there for him is what makes him feel loved. I was surprised by how simple it was and it made me wonder - If God asked me what makes me feel loved by Him, what would I say?

I thought about it and then I realized the very same things that make my son feel loved by me - are the things that make me feel loved by God!

It’s knowing that God’s always with me, and always there for me. That He cares about me, and He’ll never leave me. It’s the promises He’s made and kept that remind me of His love again and again.

So, have you ever thought about what makes you feel loved by God?

To learn more about God’s love for you, visit Proverbs31.org.

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Connect with Renee on her Blog and Facebook

Pre-order Renee’s book, “A Confident Heart.”

Check out Renee's other Resources at P31

Bring on the Clothes

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Holly Good

Last week a friend told me that her kids have done their own laundry for years. Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. I thought this was a great idea because it’s a basic life skill we should all be able to do. But at the same time I just had to know her secret for keeping this family chore on a regular self sustaining schedule.

She admitted that she still needs to remind her now young teen to do his laundry. But several years ago she thought of something simple and fun to keep him doing it week after week. She lets him drop his dirty clothes from the loft on the second floor down to the first floor where they fall right at the entrance to the laundry room. It saves him the time of carrying it downstairs and its fun for him to send it sailing.

What an easy way to keep a rather dull chore from being too monotonous! For more ideas and encouragement visit proverbs31.org.

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Follow Me

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

When Jesus said, “Come and follow Me” did He mean that for us, today? Hi, I’m Renee Swope with Proverbs 31 Ministries.

Jesus said Come Follow Me, to men who could actually follow Him physically. Yet I want to be a woman who accepts His invitation and follows Him spiritually - every day!

Now, that hasn’t always been my attitude. My desire to follow God came after years of following my own plans, which eventually failed. I ended up in a pit of despair after a broken engagement, a job loss and a pile of debt I couldn’t get out of!

I finally surrendered my plans and told God I wanted Him to start leading my life.

And you know what? He did! Each time I committed to follow Him, He’d lead me to promises in the Bible to comfort my hurts and wisdom to make good choices. And step-by-step I eventually learned to follow God.

For more encouragement, visit Proverbs31.org

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Pre-order Renee’s book, “A Confident Heart.”

Check out Renee's other Resources at P31

Pushed to That Place

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

If I had a dollar for every time I’ve blown it with the words I speak, I could buy several plane tickets to somewhere warm and tropical. Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. The other day at a coffee shop I saw a woman with two small children getting very frustrated, a situation I’ve found myself in many times.

I couldn’t help but hear her berate her husband when he arrived. He was always late, he was inconsiderate, he didn’t care about the stress she’d faced that day.

Then I noticed the look on her husband’s face. I recognized the look because I’ve seen it on my husband’s face when I’ve caught him off guard like this.

So I’ve decided to try to make a change. I’ve even made a list of words from the Bible to memorize so they can help me the next time I get so frustrated. Then maybe I won’t blindside my husband by putting all the blame on him!

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

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The Day I Almost Quit

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

I’ll never forget the day I almost quit being a mom. Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries.

It’d been such a hard day with two fussy toddlers! After I put them down for an early nap, I searched for pink construction paper so I could write “I QUIT” on it and turn in my “pink slip” when my husband got home!

Well, I couldn’t find the paper so I stood there crying. That’s when I told God,” I can’t do this. Being a mom is just too hard!”

I sensed Him whisper to my heart: “You’re right, Renee. In your own strength and with only your perspective, you can’t do this.” It was a new starting place for me. When I admitted to myself and God that I couldn’t, He reminded me that together “we” could! He showed me that with His strength and guidance, I could become the mom He created me to be, the mom my kids needed me to be, and the mom I wanted to be!

If you need some encouragement, visit Proverbs31.org.

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Pre-order Renee’s book, “A Confident Heart.”

Check out Renee's other Resources at P31

Seem So Small

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

Recently I was thinking about all of the seemingly small things that can cause great destruction. Especially when it comes to marriage. Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst with Proverbs 31 Ministries. Careless words, slightly disrespectful attitudes, complaining about our finances can all seem so small.

Each of these seemingly small things can so easily and tragically wedge itself into the core of a marriage and send it slipping towards destruction.

I can’t mindlessly assume that my marriage is coasting along okay and that little problems can’t topple even the most stable of legacies. So today I’ve decided to focus on my words. I’m going to ask God to interrupt my mouth at every turn. I’m going to hold my tongue against saying anything careless. And I’m going to intentionally use my words as gifts to my husband today and nothing else. For more encouragement visit Lysa’s blog at Proverbs 31.org.

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Who Holds the Key to Your Heart? by Lysa TerKeurst

Rejection Hurts

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writers: Tracie Miles and Renee Swope

Nobody likes me…everybody hates me! Hi I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries.

Isn’t it easy to feel “unloved” when we’ve been rejected? Rejection can come from a boss, a loved one or even one of our children. It usually makes us feel like less of a person and we start thinking everybody feels the same way about us.

The Bible tells us God will never reject us. Jesus said we should only seek His approval because His acceptance can’t be earned or lost! I love knowing there’s nothing I can do to make God reject me. I know that for certain because I’ve gone to Him for forgiveness and acceptance through His Son, Jesus. Jesus took the pain and rejection of man when He died on the cross for our sins. Because His did that, we can know we are loved and accepted by God, no matter what anyone else thinks!

To know more about experiencing God’s love, visit proverbs31.org.

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Pre-order Renee’s book, “A Confident Heart.”

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Iron Sharpens Iron

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Glynnis Whitwer

Every good cook knows a dull knife can be more dangerous than a sharp one. Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries.

A dull blade can actually do a lot of damage because it’s harder to use. Not only does it require more force but it’s also harder to control. That’s why a dull blade can slice a finger quicker than a tomato.

A knife can’t sharpen itself. You need something else made of steel to make the blade sharp. It’s the same way with people. The Bible says: “You use iron to sharpen iron, and one friend sharpens another.” A wise friend can make us wiser. A loving friend can expand our capacity to love.

And, whether we’re sharpening a blade or ourselves, it’s always done for a purpose. Sharpening a knife makes it useful. In the same way, we’re sharpened in order to do the work of God more effectively and efficiently.

To learn more, log on to proverbs31.org.

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Free Devotion, A Yeah Day, by Wendy Pope

Reinventing Your Rainbow, by Tracie Miles

Shattered Trust

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writers: Tracie Miles and Renee Swope

Has someone ever shattered your trust? Hi I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Isn’t it hard to trust someone who’s betrayed you?

My friend Tracie recently checked the history on her child’s computer. Unfortunately, she discovered her daughter had visited some websites that she wasn’t very happy about. Tracie wasn’t only upset about things her daughter had seen, but also felt like she couldn’t trust her anymore.

When someone breaks our trust, it takes time to build it back. So, what can we do? We need to tell God about our hurts and also acknowledge that we’ve broken His trust before, too. And, we need to thank God for His forgiveness so we can forgive the one who’s hurt us. We eventually need to talk with the person and forgive them. We also need to be honest about our feelings and explain that it will take time to trust again.

For more encouragement in all of your relationships, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at Proverbs31.org.


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Pre-order Renee’s book, “A Confident Heart.”

Check out Renee's other Resources at P31

Rejoicing Over Me?

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Van Walton

Did you know God rejoices and sings because of you? Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries.

The other night I entered my daughter’s room. Peace and calm hovered over her as she slept - a vast difference from the energy that sparked around her in the midst of her active day.

I thanked God for this precious child and asked Him to watch over her. As I turned to leave I realized that I didn’t want to. I relished the time just listening to her breathe while I took in every feature of her innocent face. Oh how I love this girl! Before I knew it I was singing to my sleeping daughter.

If you’re a mom I’m sure you’ve had moments when your kids made your heart swell with overwhelming love. God feels the same way about us! The Bible says God delights in His children and He loves us simply because we are His.

For more encouragement, visit proverbs31.org.

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Free Devotion, Know Whose You Are, by Melanie Chitwood

Beautiful in God’s Eyes, by Elizabeth George

Dealing With Difficult Personalities

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Amanda Waldroop

"She did it again!" "What'd she do?" I asked. Hi, I'm Renee Swope with Proverbs 31 Ministries.

My friend told me her sister-in-law had just planned another family get-together without asking for her input. Ever been there? We all know people who seem like they want to control things.

You know, the desire to control is actually part of a God-given personality type. It can be a strength if used wisely, or a weakness if taken to the extreme. So, what do we do with the controllers in our lives? We can focus on their strengths while drawing clear boundaries.

Maybe you're not a good organizer. Isn't it comforting to know there's someone nearby who's great with details? Depend on them for things they're good at and be gentle but honest if they get too pushy. And bring your own touch by offering to do what you're good at, like decorating or cooking one of your specialties.

For more encouragement on getting along with difficult people, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at Proverbs31.org.

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Connect with Renee on her Blog and Facebook

Pre-order Renee’s book, “A Confident Heart.”

Check out Renee's other Resources at P31

More than I Imagined

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

I remember being a little girl looking out into the world and just… wondering. Hi I’m Lysa TerKeurst with Proverbs 31 Ministries.

As a child I counted how many years left before I would be grown. I closed my eyes and imagined what my life might be like...What would I be when I grew up?

Who would love me?Would I have children?Yesterday I stood at the front window of my house and peeked out at all that had come to pass. Though at times my life can be messy and chaotic...I can honestly say from the bottom of my heart...this is more than I could have ever hoped for or imagined.

And I remembered these words from the Bible:"Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us, to Him be the glory..."

For more encouragement click on Everyday Life at Proverbs 31.org.

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Free Devotion, Open For Service, by Tracie Miles

Self Talk, Soul Talk, by Jennifer Rothschild

Keeping Myself in the Bible

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing writers: Jill Tracey

Is your to do list so long that the thought of adding one more thing makes you want to scream? Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries.

With all I have to get done each day, it’s easy to let my time with God and reading the Bible fall by the wayside.

After all, my kids won’t go hungry if I’m don’t read my Bible and I won’t be charged a late fee if I don’t finish a certain number of chapters. But, when I don’t read my Bible I don’t have God’s perspective, and then I really get overwhelmed with my to do list!

One thing that’s helped me read my Bible consistently is being in a women’s Bible study group. Doing a Bible Study challenges me to dig deeper into the meaning behind God’s words. When we get together as a group, I get to know women who are going through similar experiences. We share our struggles and we learn a lot from each other.

To find more encouragement for your busy life, visit us at Proverbs31.org.

Related Resources

Connect with Renee on her Blog and Facebook

Pre-order Renee’s book, “A Confident Heart.”

Check out Renee's other Resources at P31

God is in Control

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

“Oh no, not the Camellia bush," I gasped as I opened the front door to my daughter’s little hands full of pink petals. Hi I’m Lysa TerKeurst with Proverbs31 Ministries.

The pathway of pedals she had constructed was beautiful but my bush now looked bare.
However, later that day, my teenage son was going out with friends.

I followed them to the front door with the normal speech - "Don't drive too fast... wear your seatbelt.”

They walked down the front walkway and over my daughter’s flower display, and suddenly I loved the scattered petals at the front door. I smiled thinking about God creating each of these beautiful flowers.

What a reminder it was for this mom of a teenage driver that when I can't control everything around me, everything around me seems to be God’s reminder of just how in control He is.

For more motherhood encouragement, visit Proverbs31.org

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Free Devotion, Getting Caught, by Micca Campbell

i am not but i know I Am, by Louie Giglio