Bring It To Me

Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Marybeth Whalen

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

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

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

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

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

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Become A Good Delegator

Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

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

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

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

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

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What Happens When Women Say Yes To God, by Lysa TerKeurst

Trust Him

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

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

Hi, I’m Renee Swope with Proverbs 31 Ministries

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

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

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

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

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Emotional Stability In Our Kids

Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

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

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

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

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

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What Happens When Women Say Yes To God, by Lysa TerKeurst

Am I Messing Up My Kids?, by Lysa Terkeurst

Can I Have A Timeline?

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

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

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

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

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

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

For more, visit Proverbs31.org.

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Have You Given Up?

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

Have you ever resigned yourself to just not being able to do something? Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries.

I know I’ve done this way too often. With a simple, "I can't," I brush off a possibility without even thinking. This is when I need to remind myself of something I used to think I couldn’t do, but now I can, like running.

Four years ago I forced myself to exercise and started running, but I use that word loosely. At first all I could do was slowly jog from one mailbox to the next on a country road by my home. But eventually, I was able to run further and further without crying and feeling like my lungs were on fire. It's still an effort and there are still days I don't want to do it. But I love how I feel afterwards. And, believe me; if I can get to this point…anything’s possible with God’s help!For more encouragement, visit proverbs 31.org.

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What Happens When Women Say Yes To God, by Lysa TerKeurst

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.

Related Resources:

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Order Renee’s book, “A Confident Heart.”

Check out Renee's other Resources at P31

Also check out our new Christmas book by Karen Ehman and LeAnn Rice, Untangling Christmas

Let's Dangle Our Feet Today

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

Have you ever been listening to a song when the words jump out, and say "listen to me right now?!" Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst with Proverbs 31 Ministries. That happened to me yesterday. I was in the middle of listening to a song about rest. I’m not opposed to rest. But life can be busy, you know?

Hello deadlines. Hello school work. Hello empty fridge and dirty laundry.

So I’m singing this song about rest by Anita Renfroe and this phrase comes along: "dangling my feet off the edge of nowhere.” I don’t think I do that. Rest for me is scheduled and on purpose. Letting whimsy into my world isn’t something I’m good at.

But the words about dangling my feet grabbed me. So, I've decided to CHOOSE to walk without pretense or hurry today. I will try to slow down. I will try to live in the moment. Just for today. For more proverbs31.org.

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What Happens When Women Say Yes To God, by Lysa TerKeurst

A Cup of Christmas COCOA

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Tracie Miles

One thing I love at Christmas time is a cup of hot cocoa. Hi, I’m Renee Swope with Proverbs 31 Ministries. Here’s one way the word ‘COCOA’ can help us remember some important aspects of Christmas.

●C is for CHRIST. He’s the reason for Christmas!
●O is for ORNAMENTS. As we decorate our tree, let’s remember to decorate our hearts and homes with God’s love.
●C reminds us to CELEBRATE. It’s easy to get focused on giving, but let’s not forget to celebrate all that God has given us!
●O is for OVERJOYED! Instead of getting overwhelmed with our schedules, let’s get overjoyed by remembering why Jesus was born.
●And A is for ABUNDANCE! In the abundance of presents and people, let’s remember that what we really need is the abundant life Jesus promised through a relationship with Him.

Oh, and next time you have a cup of cocoa, pull up a chair and visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at Proverbs31.org.

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Healthy Christmas Boundaries

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

For me, today will consist of laundry, homework, and a to-do list for Christmas that’s never-ending. Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries and, like you, I've come to the realization that Christmas is coming in fast motion.

And it’s so easy to let myself get all in a tizzy and start steam rolling ahead determined to get everything perfectly checked off my list. But because of those unrealistic expectations I put on myself each year, tensions always run high, finances get tight, and my emotions usually flow more than I’d like.

I’m going to ask myself one simple question each day this holiday season, "What can I realistically do without losing my Christmas joy?” This is my goal this year. Smile, breathe and only take on what I can handle. Care to join me? For more encouragement click on Lysa’s blog at Proverbs31.org.

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What Happens When Women Say Yes To God, by Lysa TerKeurst

Check out the new book Untangling Christmas, by Karen Ehman and LeAnn Rice

Feeling Bullied

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Gary Morland with Renee Swope

Sometimes I feel like I am being bullied by my own thoughts! Hi, I’m Renee Swope with Proverbs 31 Ministries!

I don’t know about you, but there’s one thought that tends to creep in and act like my own private bully! He always shows up when I have tons of things to do and have to do all of them at the same time and it’s gonna be a huge challenge. Or when I get tired or discouraged; that is when he starts bullying me.

He doesn’t say it out loud, but I hear it, and if I’m not careful, I believe it. He tells me a very simple, very subtle lie.

“You are what you do. If you fail in this, then that’s who you are.”

Funny thing is, I don’t hear that when I succeed. And it would be a lie if I did. The truth is, I am not what I do. I’m not a success because I get it all done. I’m not a failure when I don’t! And neither are you!

For more encouragement, visit Proverbs31.org.

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Dealing With The Past

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

Let’s face it; dealing with the junk from our past can be tough. Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst with Proverbs 31 Ministries.

I spent a lot of years living in a huge rut because of some difficult circumstances in my life. But nothing good grows in a rut. It just stays muddy and worn out.

So, eventually, I had to make the choice to face each situation and stop asking, “Why me?” Instead, I have to make myself say…now that this is my reality, God, what good can come from it?

And good has come despite the abandonment, abuse, loss, and rejection. I have found peace. I have a story that gives hope to others in tough circumstances that they can get out of the ruts that they’re stuck in. I can see that now and it really helps my trust in Him grow. For more encouragement, click on Lysa’s blog at Proverbs31.org.

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What Happens When Women Say Yes To God, by Lysa TerKeurst

A Picture of Grace

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Jill Tracey

I just read a story that painted a perfect picture of God’s grace.

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

A three year old was watching two older girls playing with helium filled balloons. She told her mom she wanted one too. Without skipping a beat, one of the older girls said, “Here, have mine.”

The pre-schooler’s mom told her to say thank you and to hold on tight. Well, being three, she struggled with that last part and, before long she screamed, “My BALLOON!!” as it floated away.

Before the little girl even had a chance to start crying, the other older girl came right over with her balloon and said, “Here you go!”

What a picture of GRACE! Just like those girls, God gives us a gift. Being human, we mess it up, lose it, or chase it away. But, God comes right back with a second chance to receive the gift He has for us!

For more encouragement, visit proverbs31.org!

Related Resources:

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Order Renee’s book, “A Confident Heart.”

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A Mom's Fear

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

Are you ever afraid that something’s happening to one of your children? Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst with Proverbs 31 Ministries.

For moms, this is our greatest fear. We see our teenage son drive down the driveway and fear grabs our heart. We hear of another child getting diagnosed with cancer and we start asking the what if questions. We watch the news reports on a child that’s been abducted and we hold ours just a little tighter that night.

Having 5 children, I often want to just tuck my kids under my wing and never let them leave my side. But I also know that’s not how God wants me to handle my fears. So, I pray. I read God’s truths. I memorize God’s promises. And I make the choice to walk in confidence. The minute those fears start to creep in and haunt my heart, I have to start the process all over again. For more, click on Lysa’s blog at Proverb31.org.

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What Happens When Women Say Yes To God, by Lysa TerKeurst

A Favorite Gift

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

My mom was about to retire and I wanted to honor her in a really special way! Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries.

I decided to plan a surprise party and create a book of memories for my mom, spanning 65 years of her life. Before the party, I asked family members and friends to send me a written memory along with a favorite photo. After she recovered from the big surprise I gave the album to my mom and I’ll never forget the look on her face or the tears in her eyes. She felt so loved!

That album is one of her most treasured possessions now, because it captures the many facets of her life as a mom, sister, grandma, and friend!

Ya know, making a memory album is a great way to show someone how valuable their life is and how much you love them! It takes extra time but it’s always a great gift.

Have you got any favorite gift ideas? To share them, click on Renee’s blog at Proverbs 31.org.

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Just Jump

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

“I’ll catch you. Just jump!” Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. I have to smile when I remember the game my husband played with our girls when they were little. They would stand on the end of our very tall bed and when Art gave the nod, they would jump to him confident that he would catch them every time.

But they didn’t start out confident. Their first time jumping was nothing but a leap of faith. Art would assure them repeatedly, “I’ll catch you. Just jump sweetheart. I’ll be here.” Eventually, they took the leap. And Daddy was there to catch them every time.

I think that’s the way it is with taking spiritual leaps of faith as well. What’s God been calling you to the edge of lately? Have you heard Him assure you that He’ll be right there? When we make the jump, there’s no sweeter place to be than in the middle of our Heavenly Father’s strong embrace. For more visit Proverbs31.org.

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What Happens When Women Say Yes To God, by Lysa TerKeurst

Simple Holiday Parties

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

Every year I say I want to host a holiday party but I usually don’t because it’s too much work!

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

This year, I’m going to sop talking about it and actually do it! But I don’t want to stress out about having a few friends over. So, I got a few ideas from some people who really know how to throw a party without all the stress. In the book Homespun Memories for the Heart I found over 200 ideas for creating unforgettable moments and simple holiday settings. Some of my favorite ideas were to

● Decorate with cozy things you already have in your home.
● Play soft music in the background to set the mood.
● Light candles for a soft, warm glow
● And Keep the menu simple.

Whether it’s the holidays or another time of year, I think these ideas will help me make any get-together special…but NOT stressful. For more ideas on planning a Christmas gathering that’s successful but simple, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

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Order Renee’s book, “A Confident Heart.”

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Christmas Attitude

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

How will my Christmas attitude be this year? Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries.

Many things used to make me have a bad Christmas attitude but not this year. “It is what it is.” That’s my new motto for the season.

For me to pretend that shopping, decorating, and digging through the attic makes me happy, happy, happy, would be fake, fake, fake. I’ll be honest I don’t like all the extra things Christmas adds to my to do list but I love what the season can be.

The main thing is I love Jesus and I love my family and it’s okay if everything doesn’t get done perfectly. It is what it is and that has helped me turn my Christmas Ugggh into a Christmas Ahhhhh! And I have two words for my shopping list this year - gift certificates. For more encouragement, visit Proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

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What Happens When Women Say Yes To God, by Lysa TerKeurst

Why Wait?

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

I’m grieving the loss of a friend and it’s really hard. Hi, I’m Renee Swope with Proverbs 31 Ministries.

My friend, Kim, was a wonderful mom with three young children who’ll feel the pain of their loss for the rest of their lives. Her death has caused me to ask some tough questions about my own life. Although I know I’ll die someday, I tend to live like I have forever. But I don’t.

So, I’ve been wondering… what’re some things I’d want to do if I were diagnosed with a terminal illness? Would I write letters to my husband and kids telling them how I feel about them? Or make videos for their graduation or wedding days? Would I just want to spend every moment with them that I possibly could?

It’s easy not to think about these things when I don’t have a life-threatening illness. But, why wait? There’s so much I want to say and do, and, the reality is, I’m not guaranteed tomorrow.

I’d love to hear your thoughts. Click on Renee’s blog at Proverbs31.org!

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Totally Grumpy

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

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

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

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

For more thoughts visit Lysa’s Blog at Proverbs 31.org.

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What Happens When Women Say Yes To God, by Lysa TerKeurst

Park Your Mind

Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

I can have such a runaway mind when I focus on my fears and blow them way out of proportion. Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries.

Do you ever struggle with this? Throughout the Bible God instructs us to park our minds on what is true.

Recently my friend, Holly heard me talk about parking your mind on God's truths and decided to write some of our favorite Scripture verses on her back door. So, each morning when I arrive for our daily run I am greeted with huge bold letters, "Park Your Mind" written across her door in permanent marker. Many different Scriptures are colorfully written all over the door reminding us of God's power and presence.

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

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What Happens When Women Say Yes To God, by Lysa TerKeurst

Try Something New

Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

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

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

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

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

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

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Order Renee’s book, “A Confident Heart.”

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