Thank you note Dilemma

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

I want to get better about consistently writing thank you notes, but sometimes I feel like such a failure in this area. Hi I’m Lysa TerKeurst with Proverbs 31 Ministries. Every birthday I vow to get better about writing thank you notes. I really appreciate it when someone gives me a gift or does something thoughtful for me. I just don’t always remember to sit down and write a note to express my appreciation.

So, the other day while I was spending some time with God, I asked Him to help me with this. Instantly couple different people popped into my mind that I should send a note to. I pulled out the stationery, wrote the note, and sent them that very day. Maybe if I asked God a couple times a week who needs to receive a few words of gratitude from me, it could really help with my thank you note dilemma. It worked this week anyhow.

For more life encouragement check out our free daily devotions by visiting Proverbs 31 Ministries, at Proverbs 31.org.

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What Happens When Women Say Yes To God, By Lysa Terkeurst

Made To Crave, by Lysa Terkeurst

The Stuff Pile

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

Sometimes I let a pile of stuff sit in my house so long that I just kind of become numb to it! Hi I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries and my most recent pile was in my bedroom. Somehow my bedroom had become a catch all for misplaced stuff. And do you know what I learned when I cleared out the things that didn’t belong? Stuff is a stealer.

Having all that stuff in my room stole space that could be used for a bedroom that functions well. It stole my peace of mind. It stole a feeling of serenity. If I’d had any idea what I was allowing all that stuff to take from me, I would have cleared it out a long time ago. Take it from this naturally disorganized woman who has seen the light at the end of the junk pile- cleaning it up is so worth the effort! Now I’m off to tackle the pile in my kitchen!

For more ideas on home organization, click on “Today’s Show” at Proverbs 31.org.

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What Happens When Women Say Yes To God, By Lysa Terkeurst

Made To Crave, by Lysa Terkeurst

Where Has My Time Gone?

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

Today I decided not to do some things I really needed to do! Instead I spent time with my family just having fun. Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Every day I have a choice. Will my schedule be determined by laundry that’s piling high, deadlines that are getting closer and projects that have been waiting for months, or will I set aside time to spend with my family?

It’s so easy to get swept up into what I need to get done. But, at the end of the day, I wonder where my time has gone, and what my kids and husband have been doing while I was on the computer or cleaning for hours.

God wants me to love and enjoy my family! Not just clean up after and work around them. So today I stopped doing so much and got intentional about being with them. We sat on the porch talking and went for a walk. At the end of the day, I loved knowing where my time had gone. For more encouragement visit proverbs31.org.

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Hand Painted Sign

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

Recently I was startled by a sign on the side of a back country road. Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. The large, white, hand painted sign said. “Repent! The day of Jesus is coming. Repent of your sins today!”

I must admit, this frustrated me. I rolled my eyes and thought who is going to read that sign and want to change their life? I wanted the sign to talk about Jesus’ love, or forgiveness or second chances.

But then I was humbled by my hard hearted assumption that the sign was meant for other people. When in reality, I think the sign was meant for me that day.

A needed reminder that I fall short. I need to make time to say I’m sorry and make some changes. So, I guess I was wrong- that sign was pretty effective after all.

For more visit Lysa’s blog at Proverbs 31.org.

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I Lost Myself In The Process

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

A few weeks ago I stumbled into a conversation that shocked me. Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. A woman I greatly admire was out to eat with her grown kids. I complimented my friend about how great her kids have turned out. Suddenly, her face dropped, her expression changed, and I could see emptiness behind her eyes.

"Yes my kids turned out great and I loved raising them. But, I lost myself in the process."

I paused and thought, ‘how do we fully embrace motherhood but not lose the other parts of us?’ We’re surrounded by moms who work and moms who stay at mom. I’ve learned that one size does not fit all. But one God does. He creates a beautiful work in and through each of our lives.

And we’ll be most fulfilled when we embrace every part of the unique life God has planned for us. For more visit Proverbs 31.org.



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

Working From Home

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writers: Glynnis Whitwer

Did you know that over 50 million people will work from their homes this year? Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries.

Many of us are now working from home, either telecommuting or running a home-based business.

Working at home can be great, but I also know it can be hard. I’ve found that for success, I first needed to set up a workspace outside my bedroom so at bedtime I’m not thinking about all the things I still have to do. Also, I invested in good desk and office equipment. The kitchen table worked for a while, but my back suffered because it’s not the right height for a keyboard. And, an accountant helped me figure out what expenses are tax-deductible.

I’ve learned to schedule separate times for work and home tasks so I don’t neglect either. And because I have kids, I also trade out play dates with other moms when I need uninterrupted work time. Working from home offers great freedom, but it also takes work to make it work!

To learn more about working from home, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at Proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

Connect with Renee on her Blog and Facebook

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

Check out Renee's other Resources at P31

Get Real

Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Jill Tracey

Being honest about our struggles can be scary! Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries.

A friend of mine has been struggling with depression and is tired of hiding it. She’s been overwhelmed with all she wants in life...to be healthy...have a second child...and follow God more faithfully.... Not seeing progress in these areas was taking its toll, ESPECIALLY after she turned 40. She started getting really down on herself and getting irritable really easily.

So she decided to talk with a Christian counselor, and it really helped her. She’s learned that trying to make changes can be good; but when that desire comes with a ton of self doubt and defeat, it can only lead to anger and depression. So far, things are looking up. But, she HAS decided to stop trying to act like she’s got it all together when she feels like she’s falling apart!

I think it’s important for all of us to be real with each other? Tell me what YOU think. Click on Renee’s blog at proverbs31.org.

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

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Gaps

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

Do you feel like you always have an issue to deal with? Me too.

Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst with Proverbs 31 Ministries. Does it ever seem like everyone else is gliding through life while you’re hitting every possible pothole? I can so relate! Issues are everywhere in my life. Issues with my kids. Issues with a friend. Issues with time management. And then there are the bigger issues that beg me to crawl in bed and wish the world away.

Some days I feel like all I that I ever do is run from issue to issue trying like mad to fill in my never ending gaps.

But these gaps can be good in an upside down, crazy kind of way. They’re a constant reminder of my desperate need for God. Anything that keeps me close to God can’t be all bad right? Don’t let your gaps get you down my friend. And, take comfort in knowing, you’re definitely not alone.

For more click on Lysa’s blog at Proverbs31.org.

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

Too Busy For Quiet Time

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

Is it really that important to spend time with God every day? Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst with Proverbs 31 Ministries. God knows how busy my life is, so if I just toss up a few quick prayers that should suffice right?

It’s so easy to let life crowd out time for prayer and Bible reading. That’s why I have to decide before my day even starts that spending time with God is the most important investment I can make all day. It’s the best investment I can make in my marriage and in my kids’ lives. It’s the best investment I can make in my friendships and in myself.

And I always find that after even just a few quiet minutes with God, my mindset is healthier, my attitude more positive, and my ability to extend grace is increased. To find some ideas on how to spend time with God, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries on-line. And, be sure to click on Lysa’s blog at Proverb31.org.

Related Resources:

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

You're Not The Boss Of Me

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

When I was a little girl, I never liked to be bossed around. Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst with Proverbs 31 Ministries. As a matter of fact, I distinctly remember wondering who was the boss of all the bosses? That’s who I wanted to be.

I sure wish I could bottle up some of that tenacity when it comes to eating healthy. I’d do well to put my hands on my hips and remind my taste buds, “You’re not the boss of me.”

I need to remind myself when I think I want that unhealthy food option that only my taste buds want that.

God gave me taste buds which leads me to believe I’m supposed to enjoy eating, not to sabotage my life.

I’ve trained myself to enjoy healthy options. And you know what amazes me? I now crave what I’ve trained my taste buds to enjoy.

For more ideas on taking control back from your taste buds, click on Lysa’s blog at Proverbs31.org.

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Made to Crave, by Lysa TerKeurst

Falling Face First

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

Yesterday, I tweeted, “We are only as weak as our strongest link.” It wasn’t a typo. Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst with Proverbs 31 Ministries.

The minute I start feeling absolutely confident in my own strength is the minute I am desperately weak, and I don’t even realize it.

I was reminded of this recently right before I stepped on stage to speak to 4500 women. One minute I was walking backstage to get my microphone and the next minute I was on the ground with my face pressed into the cement floor. Yes, I fell. And it hurt!

As I walked on stage, I felt so incredibly vulnerable. But God used that weakness to touch those women’s hearts in a way my confidence never could!

What strength could trip you up today? Ask for God to give you spiritual ears to hear any direction or correction He whispers.

For more, click on Lysa’s blog at Proverbs31.org.

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Made to Crave, by Lysa TerKeurst

How Do You Do It All?

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

How do you do it all? Hi, I’m Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries, and I DON’T do it all!

The other day a friend asked me, Renee, with two teenage boys, an three year old with special needs, and a busy job, how do you do it all …I quickly told her / I don’t do it all – at least not all at the same time.

I always have more projects on my list than I can ever finish. And, Im terrible at estimating how much time it will take to get something done. But there are things I do that help me balance my life.

First, I depend on a list to remind me what needs to get done. Second, I try to delegate as much as I can to my kids and share the load with my husband.

Finally, I give myself a lot of grace! I have to be ok with NOT getting everything done every day. So, that’s how I do… or actually DONT DO - it all!

For more encouragement visit proverbs31.org, and click on Renee’s blog.

Related Resources:

Connect with Renee on her Blog and Facebook

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

Check out Renee's other Resources at P31

One or Two Verse Day

Radio Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

Do you ever feel overwhelmed when you sit down to read your Bible? There’s so much there, where do we start? Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst with Proverbs 31 Ministries.

It’s tough, but the best time for me to spend time reading is in the morning. I gather up my Bible and my computer, and pull myself away from my bed. Sometimes the urge to crawl back under the covers almost takes over, but I try to see the Bible as my love letter from God.

Recently I haven’t been reading chapters at a time. Some days it’s just one verse. One verse that I savor, letting it sink deep…interrupting me, rearranging me, redirecting me.

Through His love letter, God reminds me to pause. Pause to serve, give, encourage. Pause…to say thank you.

For more ideas on getting the most out of reading the Bible, click on Lysa’s blog at Proverbs31.org.

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Becoming More Than a Good Bible Study Girl, by Lysa TerKeurst

Finding Contentment

Radio Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Renee Swope

Doesn’t it seem like the more we buy for our kids, the less thankful they are? Hi, I'm Renee Swope for Proverbs 31 Ministries.

Psychologists say that a constant supply of gifts can create a sense of entitlement in children, causing them to focus on what's coming next, rather than on what they already own.

The Bible calls this discontentment - never being satisfied, no matter how much we have. So, how do we help our kids learn to be content?

First, we can help them enjoy what they already have by reading books with them; playing board games and talking walks with them while they rollerblade or skateboard in the neighborhood. We can also find ways as a family to help others who are less fortunate.

And finally, we can make it a regular habit to talk as a family about what we're thankful for, not just at Thanksgiving. As we focus on what we have instead of everything we don't, contentment can be a permanent part of our homes. For more ideas on finding contentment, visit Proverbs 31 Ministries at proverbs31.org.

Related Resources:

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

Check out Renee's other Resources at P31

Oh The Portions!

Hostess: Renee Swope
Contributing Writer: Jill Tracey

It’s been a crazy day! With dozens of errands and work projects I feel like I am living on the go.

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

In the midst of my hurries, I forgot my healthy lunch at home so I had to eat out. So, I decided to order the SMALL combo to at least attempt “healthy.” Well, when I got my order they gave me a HUGE drink that would have been considered a large soda a few years ago. I asked to make sure and the lady helping me said, "Oh, yeah, that's a small. Our medium and large are a LOT bigger than that!"

I can't BELIEVE how large the drinks and food servings are these days. And then we wonder why we all struggle with our weight! It's crazy!!! I did make at least ONE wise dietary choice, though. I threw away half the fries!

So, how do you keep your family healthy in this world of generous portions? Share your ideas with me when you click on Renee’s blog at Proverbs31.org!

Related Resources:

Connect with Renee on her Blog and Facebook

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

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Rest

Hostess: Lysa TerKeurst
Contributing Writer: Lysa TerKeurst

I know taking time to rest is essential but life doesn’t always cooperate. Hi I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. Life is busy. Schedules are jam packed. So many things feel absolutely essential. But are they really?

I’ve been feeling challenged lately to rest more. Not just getting more sleep but having a more restful, peaceful attitude throughout my day. I just found I had gotten into this habit of rushing everywhere I went. I rush to the store. I rush to get my kids from school. Then I rush them to get their homework done, get through dinner, and finally rush to get them in bed.

Why all the hurry? Maybe I need to cut some things from our schedule? And really do it this time… Wanna join me? How have you found ways to make rest a priority?

Or do you struggle with this just like me? Hey click on Lysa’s blog at Proverbs31.org and we’ll talk about it.

Related Resources:

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

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.

Related Resources:

Visit Lysa's Blog

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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:

Connect with Renee on her Blog and Facebook

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

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.

Related Resources:

Connect with Renee on her Blog and Facebook

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

Check out Renee's other Resources at P31

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.

Related Resources:

Visit Lysa's Blog

Check out the P31 Woman Magazine

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

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