Unwrapping His Christmas Presence

Renee Swope

"The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and you will call Him Immanuel, God with us." Isaiah 7:14 (NIV)

Plans for the perfect Christmas danced across the stage of my mind. My mom, my brother and my husband’s parents were coming to see us. Plus my dad and his wife would be here Christmas day, and JJ's brother and family were coming too. Inviting our out-of-town families to our home for the holidays for the first time was a dream come true. The fact that they could all come at some point between Christmas and New Years was just short of a miracle.

I’m so embarrassed to admit this, but by the time everyone got here I couldn’t wait for them to leave.

In the midst of all the preparations, I’d gotten tangled up in Christmas lights and unrealistic expectations. It all started when my husband and sons petitioned for blinking colored lights on the tree. We don't do colored lights on the tree. I am a "white lights" kind of girl, I insisted. But then JJ suggested our decorating decisions should be a "family activity" that year. Who was this man and why had he not brought this up in pre-marriage counseling? I wondered.

The control freak in me started to freak out. Don't get in the way of my perfect Christmas with white lights that make me and my home feel peaceful.

Further attempts to have the perfect house, perfect menu and perfect table settings were stealing my holiday joy. This being my first time hosting a holiday dinner, I’d failed to notice that my Christmas place mats didn't coordinate with my everyday cloth napkins, and I didn't have festive napkin rings. Worst of all, I didn't know how to cook a turkey.

In the midst of all the holiday obligations I’d placed on myself, I experienced one of my worst Christmas days ever. I had a house full of people, but an oh-so-empty heart.

As I walked through my living room picking up wrapping paper, I wondered why my dreams of the "perfect Christmas" hadn't come true. Many of the elements seemed to be in place: kids running around with remote control cars, adults on the couch snoring to the tune of Jingle Bells, and grown men playing sidewalk hockey in the driveway. We'd lit Advent candles and set out the nativities. Still, something was missing.

Trying to escape the holiday noise, I went upstairs to my bedroom and sat down on the floor in my walk-in closet. Taking a deep breath, I opened my Bible to read the Christmas story in Luke chapter 2. Slowly, I let each word remind me of that first Christmas night and God’s promise that came true in Bethlehem. “She gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped Him in cloths and placed Him in a manger…" Luke 2:7 (NIV).

A cross reference led me to Isaiah 7:14: "The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and you will call him Immanuel, God with us."

Closing my eyes, I pictured Mary wrapping baby Jesus. Her hands carefully folding each corner of cloth. Like a beautiful bow on the perfect Christmas gift, she placed a kiss on his forehead.

That’s when I realized what had been missing. In the hustle and bustle of creating the perfect Christmas, I’d forgotten to unwrap the perfect gift, the most important gift of all, the gift of Immanuel, God with us.

Bowing my head, I opened my hands and my heart, and unwrapped God’s presence in my closet that day. I invited Jesus to bring calm to my anxious heart. To bring His perspective to my expectations and to help me enjoy the gifts of my family that were waiting downstairs. Simply pausing to acknowledge and thank Jesus for being with me brought peace to my heart unlike anything white lights and matching table settings could ever bestow.

It ended up being the perfect Christmas after all!

Dear Lord, no matter how busy life gets or how lonely I feel this Christmas, I want to unwrap the gift of Your presence each day. Help me to see You, hear Your voice speak to my heart, and pay attention when You lead me with Your peace and perspective. I seek Your purpose in all of my plans. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
Do You Know Immanuel, God with us?

Unwrapping His Presence, a Christmas Message on DVD by Renee Swope

Living and Leaving a Legacy – Two Session Conference on DVD by Renee Swope

Visit Renee’s Blog to download a free Christmas prayer that is guaranteed to prepare your heart and home for the holidays! And enter to win her Christ-Centered Christmas give-away worth over $35!

Visit Renee’s Facebook Page where she will be sharing ideas to keep Christ in Christmas every day in December!

Shop With Us for Christmas!

When you buy Christmas gifts through Proverbs 31 Ministries, you touch eternity! Your purchase supports the many areas of life-changing ministry we provide at no cost. Although we’d love to offer huge discounts, we simply can’t compete with online warehouses. So, we are extremely grateful when you shop with us. Thanks and Merry Christmas!

Application Steps:
Make a list of expectations and preparations that could steal your focus this Christmas. Place the list in a gift box and wrap it in a prayer, asking God to give you His perspective and peace for everything you listed. If you start getting anxious, remind yourself that each assignment and challenge is wrapped in God’s peace. Trust Jesus and thank Him that no matter what comes your way, He is with you!

Reflections:
What days might be most challenging this month? How can I plan time on those day to be with Jesus each morning, sitting with Him, soaking in His perspective and peace before my busy day starts.

Power Verses:
Isaiah 26:12, "Lord, you establish peace for us; all that we have accomplished you have done for us.” (NIV)

John 14:27, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (NIV)

© 2010 by Renee Swope. All rights reserved.

Living in the Hear and Now

Renee Swope

"My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me." John 10:27 (NIV)

I sat on the couch looking out the window, wondering what the future held. Some opportunities were on the horizon. My excitement, mixed with the fear of getting over-committed, ignited a rapid firing of thoughts: What would I say yes or no to? What was God calling me to do? How would I figure out His plans and purpose for my schedule?

Wondering and worrying wasn't getting me anywhere, so I decided to start praying. I wrote questions in a notebook: "Lord, what should I say yes to? Where do You want me to spend my time? Will You please show me Your plans for me this coming year?"

I wanted a sneak peek into God's calendar so I could adjust mine. Instead, I sensed Him telling me not to worry about tomorrow but to live each day in the hear and now.

I'd done pretty well when it came to listening to God in the big things. It was when God called me to small acts of obedience behind the scenes that I was most challenged. A few weeks after my conversation with God and my commitment to listen more closely for His voice, I noticed my husband's side of the closet was a mess. I thought about how J.J. enjoys things being orderly, although it's not his natural inclination.

I remembered how frazzled he seemed the day before. Then I sensed God whispering to my heart, "One way you could really love J.J. and bring peace to his world would be to organize his side of the closet."

"He's a grown man; he can organize his own side of the closet. I have two kids, two dogs and myself to keep up with. Have you seen our garage and attic?" I thought.

"Did you hear Me? Are you going to obey Me now?" God's Spirit nudged.

Just that week I had read the parable of the talents in Matthew 25, and realized my attitude was like that of the third servant. He had not been entrusted with much and he buried his talent in the ground. Maybe he thought, "I wasn't given much so why even worry about being faithful with it? I'll just take it easy on this assignment. The master probably won't notice."

Sometimes I saw my role as a wife, daughter, mother and friend as "average" responsibilities - one-talent kind of assignment. Plenty of people have the same assignments, I thought. Without realizing it, I let myself slip into being selfish, inconsiderate or impatient here and there. But God wanted my willingness in every area of my life - hearing and acting on His promptings in my heart throughout my day.

Why does God want moment-by-moment, day-by-day obedience? Because He wants us to trust Him.

Obedience means actively exchanging our will for His. God knows it is hard for us to hear His voice and follow His plans for our tomorrows when we are not willing to obey Him in our todays. But He promises that when we are faithful with the little things, He will "put us in charge of many things" and give us a deeper joy than we have ever known (Matthew 25:21, NIV).

God is so patient as we learn to trust Him in the big and little things in life. And it's in our relationship with Him that we find the purpose, direction and meaning we're looking for. When we live in the "hear and now" our calling and our calendar begin to reflect our love for Him, not our need for fulfillment or the desire to be important in anyone's eyes but His.

By the way, I reorganized my husband's side of the closet. I’m almost sure I heard God chuckle and felt the warmth of His smile. May He smile on you today as you commit to live in the hear and now - acting on what you hear and living it out now.

Dear Lord, when You look at the assignments You've given me, do You find me faithful? Am I living and listening the way You want me to? Sometimes I fall into the trap of waiting for a better tomorrow or an easier assignment so that I can be faithful. Help me trust You. I want to reflect Your heart and extend Your hands today. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
Renee's talking more about listening to God and learning to recognize His voice at http://www.reneeswope.com/. And she's giving away a book that's helped her follow through on her promise to live in the hear and now. Enter to win by clicking here.

The Power of a Purpose Driven Mom (CD) by Renee Swope

Shaped with Purpose Workbook; Practical Guide to Discovering God's Purpose for Your Life and message on CD, by Renee Swope

For more everyday encouragement, connect with Renee on Facebook

What Happens When Women Say Yes to God by Lysa TerKeurst

________________________________________

When you purchase resources through Proverbs 31 Ministries, you touch eternity! Your purchase supports the many areas of life-changing ministry we provide at no cost. Although we wish we could, we simply can't compete with prices offered by huge online warehouses. Therefore, we are extremely grateful for each and every purchase you make with us! ________________________________________

Application Steps:
Is there an area of your life where God is calling you to slow down, listen for His voice, and trust Him daily instead of running ahead of His plans?

Ask God to help you listen, recognize, and act on His gentle whispers as you go throughout your day. Visit Renee’s interactive website for more encouragement and ideas on how you can distinguish God's thoughts from yours.

Reflections:
Do I desire to live in the "hear and now" - listening and obeying God in everything, believing I will discover His plans for tomorrow through my faithfulness today?

What roles and relationships has God entrusted to me? (mom, daughter, friend, classmate, wife, sister, etc.) How can I be more faithful in the little things in them?

Power Verses:
1 John 2:5, "If anyone obeys his word, God's love is truly made complete in him." (NIV)

Matthew 25:21, "You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things." (NIV)

© 2010 by Renee Swope. All rights reserved.

Rebuilt

Amy Carroll

"Such confidence as this is ours through Christ before God. Not that we are competent in ourselves to claim anything for ourselves, but our competence comes from God." 2 Corinthians 3:4-5 (NIV)

"Are you sure you're ready to have a tiger by the tail?" mom asked with a big grin. That was her first response when my then-boyfriend Barry asked my parents if he could marry me. It still makes me laugh, because I was certainly a strange mix of rule-following, first-child with a wide streak of sassiness and fierce independence. I'm still not sure Barry had any idea what he was getting into when he said, "I do."

That was over twenty years ago, so when Barry asked an unexpected question during our family vacation this year, it opened my eyes to some of God's difficult work in my life. Barry and I sat on the deck overlooking the ocean talking in low voices about the topics that concern many of us--finances, parenting, plans for the future... Suddenly, Barry asked his startling question.

"If you could change one thing about me, what would it be?"

My mind went blank except for the thought, "Whew! This is a really loaded question." At first I didn't want to answer (why ruin a great evening?), but I finally answered, braced myself and re-asked the question, "What would you change about me?"

I had a pretty good list going in my mind of what I thought he'd say--I wish you weren't so critical. I wish you wouldn't talk so much. I wish you would cook dinner more often.

What he actually said surprised me. "I want you to get your confidence back. When I married you, your favorite phrase was, 'I'll do it myself!' I've watched you lose your confidence over the years, and I want you to have it back." He replied.

A move, a couple of friendships with bad endings and struggling to find a place in my new home town had knocked the stuffing right out of me. I had fought and lost against my own tendency toward comparison, perfectionism and an overdeveloped sense of responsibility. Little by little, I became convinced that I couldn't and that I wasn't. My confidence was shaken and then it crumbled.

But sometimes things have to be torn down before they can be rebuilt.

Was it God's plan that I would move, fail in some friendships and beat myself bloody trying to be somebody else? No! He did, however, use this bad place to bring me to a better place. God began rebuilding in me about a year ago, but He capped it off when I got home from our She Speaks conference this year. There He spoke to me over and over again about trusting my life to His control. The scripture in my Sunday school class the following Sunday was our key verse today, 2 Corinthians 3:4-6: "Such confidence as this is ours through Christ before God. Not that we are competent in ourselves to claim anything for ourselves, but our competence comes from God. He has made us competent as ministers of a new covenant--not of the letter but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life." (NIV)

I started with, "I can do it," but God brought me to "He can do it in me." He has brought me out of my own power, which is so limited and flawed, to being dependent on the infilling power of His Spirit. Confidence in myself has very limited power whereas confidence in Him brings limitless possibilities.

I know that I'll still have days of struggle with confidence, but my rebuilt and renewed sense of confidence is now firmly in Christ. It's a beautiful place to be.

Dear Lord, I have depended on myself so many times and fallen short. My confidence has been shaken. Rebuild me by helping me to put my full confidence in You. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
Do You Know Him?

It's No Secret: Revealing Divine Truths Every Woman Should Know by Rachel Olsen

Visit Amy’s blog for more encouragement today!

What Happens When Women Walk in Faith by Lysa TerKeurst

Read our free encouragement, Healing in Hurting Times

________________________________________
When you purchase resources through Proverbs 31 Ministries, you touch eternity because your purchase supports the many areas of hope-giving ministry we provide at no cost. We wish we could, but we simply can't compete with prices offered by huge online warehouses. Therefore, we are extremely grateful for each and every purchase you make with us. Thank you! ________________________________________

Application Steps:
Journal a prayer thanking God for His limitless power and capabilities. Ask God to fill you with His power while giving up your own.

Reflections:
Am I truly dependent on God, or do I rely primarily on myself?

Where is my focus when I am struggling with confidence?

Power Verses:
Ecclesiastes 3:1, 3, "There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven…a time to kill and a time to heal, a time to tear down and a time to build…." (NIV)

Philippians 3:3, "For it is we who are the circumcision, we who worship by the Spirit of God, who glory in Christ Jesus, and who put no confidence in the flesh…" (NIV)

© 2010 by Amy Carroll. All rights reserved.

Divine Design

Lynn Cowell

"The wise woman builds her house, but with her own hands the foolish one tears hers down." Proverbs 14:1 (NIV)

Boiling point. That is what I had reached as I sat on the floor in my office thinking, "How did I get here?" Was it the discovery of a third needed root canal in my son's mouth only one week before he started college? Maybe it was the discussion of who was going to take over his room when he left? It was also my daughter's new job which required me to provide transportation right in the middle of the day. I guess at that point it didn't really matter. I could feel a slow boil in my heart and I feared an explosion was nearing the surface.

Proverbs 14:1 instructed me that morning with exactly what I needed to hear, "The wise woman builds her house, but with her own hands the foolish one tears hers down" (NIV).

The choice was and is mine: to be part of the divine design or the devil's demolition. My kids don't make me blow up. My husband doesn't cause me to feel exasperated. Proverbs makes it pretty clear, it's my choice.

That is a lot of power. I think, at least in America where for years women have fought for equal rights, we've missed this enormous amount of power that we have held since Eve was created: the power to build a home.

We hear of women who build innovative businesses and women who build influential ministries, but how about women who build solid homes, investing in lifelong marriages and raising up godly children as the next generation? Proverbs says this woman is wise. Never mind what society says is valuable and praiseworthy. This power is of utmost importance. This tremendous power that is within us is the power to build or destroy and we, the women of the home, hold it.

Learning to wield this power isn't something that just happens. Jesus gives insight in Matthew 12:34 when He says that out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks. Our mouths are one of our primary tools. So, what is the mouth's source? Our heart.

That is why we have to be so careful what we allow to linger there. Is it positive thoughts about our kid's, their behavior, their future, their friends? Do we think good things about our husbands throughout the day, thankful for their hard work, grateful for their companionship?

If our mouths are currently being used to tear down instead of build up, it's time for a heart overhaul; time to get the thoughts that we dwell on lined up with the good that is right under our roof.

Friend, I hope you will join me, inviting the Holy Spirit to empower you today to build your home. Look for ways to invest and opportunities to hold back those words that tear down. He wants to make us builders. Let's say "yes"!

Lord, I want to build today. I can see what this day holds: driving in carpool, washing dirty clothes, making another supper and learning third grade math…again. Open my eyes and shut my mouth when my actions are leaning toward destruction. May I choose inspiration, not irritation. Make me a builder empowered by your Holy Spirit with strength and wisdom. Thank You for this incredible opportunity. May I make You proud! Amen.

Related Resources:
The Mom I Want to Be: Rising Above Your Past to Give Your Kids a Great Future by T. Suzanne Eller

Would you like more ideas on how to build a bridge to your child’s heart? Stop by Lynn’s blog for an opportunity to win her teaching CD on doing just that.

What a Husband Needs from His Wife by Melanie Chitwood

She's Gonna Blow! Real Help For Dealing With Mom Anger by Julie Ann Barnhill

________________________________________

When you purchase resources through Proverbs 31 Ministries, you touch eternity because your purchase supports the many areas of hope-giving ministry we provide at no cost. We wish we could, but we simply can't compete with prices offered by huge online warehouses. Therefore, we are extremely grateful for each and every purchase you make with us. Thank you!________________________________________

Application Steps:
Start a Bible study with some friends or neighbors choosing to focus on either marriage or raising kids. Click here to find some great studies to help you get started.

Visit our Everyday Life section to read more encouraging articles on family life.

Reflections:
What time of the day do you find most difficult when it comes to being a woman who builds and invests positively in your family?

In addition to spending time in prayer and reading God's Word, what do you need to do to be successful in building up your home: accountability with friends, more sleep, a better diet, exercise?

Power Verses:
Proverbs 14:8, "The wisdom of the prudent is to give thought to their ways, but the folly of fools is deception." (NIV)

© 2010 by Lynn Cowell. All rights reserved.

Where Your Treasure Is

T. Suzanne Eller

"Don't store up treasures here on earth, where moths eat them and rust destroys them, and where thieves break in and steal." Matthew 6:19 (NLT)

I was on my own at 17. I worked two jobs while attending a small community college and eventually left college because I ran out of funds. Three years later I married my husband. Over the next few years babies were born, with medical expenses incurred. Then I got sick: Cancer. It probably won't surprise you that because of these circumstances, there was a huge need in my life for financial stability.

I pinched pennies. I calculated paychecks to the last dime. I made lists of our debt month after month, figuring out how to pay them off quicker. I think financial gurus would say I was on the right track, but can I be honest? In the midst of my calculations and my overwhelming need for security, pinching pennies became not just a means to meet my goal and take care of our family, but it started to reflect my heart spiritually in the area of giving.

Even after I was secure. Even after our financial status was stable.

We tithed. We gave to others, even sacrificially. But my heart wasn't in it. As I placed a tithing envelope in the offering, I thought: What about our savings? Shouldn't we be building it? What about buying something new for us? Our car is older. The miles are racking up.

Friends would have been surprised at the battle that raged inside me. I was ashamed of it. They would have called me generous, but I knew the truth. I had worked so hard for such a long time that I had come to count on Suzie. I obeyed God in this area, but did I trust Him?

I desperately wanted a generous heart, no matter how much was in our bank account. The first thing I felt God asking me to lay down was worry. As I prayed, I went back to all the times God had liberally cared for me. As an unsure young girl alone at 17, His love led me day by day. As a young mom overwhelmed at times, He wrapped me in security and grace. As a 31-year-old woman diagnosed with cancer, He filled me with faith that could only come from Christ.

My confidence in Him had nothing to do with money, but rather His presence in my life. I put worry down, asking for the strength to abide in Him instead of fear.

The second thing I felt God asking me to lay down was resentment. Oh, Father, such a hard word. Are you sure that is the condition of my heart? And yet, there it was. Hidden from others, but clear as day to me and my Savior.

It's been years since that pivotal moment between me and Jesus. Recently I was talking with one of my daughters. "Remember when you used to worry about money?" she asked. I nodded, smiling. "You seem to be so different, Mom, and yet I know that you and Dad live on a strict budget, especially now that he's back in school. Do you have money I don't know about?" she teased.

Yes, baby, I do. But it has nothing to do with my bank account. It's a different kind of treasure, one that acknowledges how rich I am to have food on the table, a car that starts every time I turn the key, a family that loves me like crazy, and faith that runs deep. It's a treasure that is nestled inside, that is filled with joy when I drop off books at a shelter, or send a check to sponsor my beautiful Compassion International child, or respond to God's leading to give more than a tithe. It's a treasure that is a deep confidence in who God is.

In many ways I'll always be that 17-year-old girl wanting to be secure, but I've found a different kind of security. I may never be wealthy, but believe me when I say this: I'm rich beyond belief. I'm blessed, blessed, blessed.

Dear Jesus, You see my heart. You know my fears, insecurities, and hunger for stability. I pray I will see the vast riches around me, things others might not see as wealth, but in the end they are the most priceless. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
Do You Know Him?

The Woman I Am Becoming by T. Suzanne Eller

Visit Suzie’s blog where she’s giving away a few copies of her books and offering a unique challenge.

Learning to Live Financially Free is a great book for you and your husband, and Raising Financially Savvy Kids (CD) for your children. Both by Marybeth and Curt Whalen

Application Steps:
List the things that money provides for you.

List the things you provide for yourself.

List the things God provides for you.

In each, describe your heart condition. Is it in balance with today's scripture (Matthew 6:19-21)?

Reflections:
Temptation to depend on wealth is insidious, but the real problem lies with attitude rather than with the amount of possessions we have. ~Anonymous

Power Verses:
Matthew 6:25-27, "That is why I tell you not to worry about everyday life--whether you have enough food and drink, or enough clothes to wear. Isn't life more than food, and your body more than clothing? Look at the birds. They don't plant or harvest or store food in barns, for your heavenly Father feeds them. And aren't you far more valuable to him than they are?" (NLT)

© 2010 by T. Suzanne Eller. All rights reserved.

The Pearl's Price

Rachel Olsen

"When he discovered a pearl of great value, he sold everything he owned and bought it!" Matthew 13:46 (NLT)

Famous jeweler Pierre Cartier purchased the Fifth Avenue mansion that is now his New York jewelry store for $100 cash. Plus a double strand of matched natural pearls.

Natural pearls, as opposed to cultivated ones, are rare and valuable. That double strand Mr. Cartier paid with in 1917 was valued at $1 million!

A few years ago I decided I wanted a strand of pearls – they're just so classy, and a staple of southern accessorizing. I quickly discovered the retail mark-up at brick-and-mortar jewelry stores can be three times as high as an online retailer. That's money I could save to spend on other things. But then again, I'd have to buy the strand sight-unseen when buying online. Could be risky.

What's a gal to do? Pay full retail with the assurance of getting something of quality, or save some money to spend on another desire and risk receiving something of little worth in return? Maybe even risk getting something counterfeit.

This is really the question of our lives.

What is worth "paying retail" for? Jesus tells us the Kingdom of God is—see what I mean in Matthew chapter 13. Here Jesus compares the Kingdom of God to a pearl of superb quality:

"Again, the Kingdom of Heaven is like a pearl merchant on the lookout for choice pearls. When he discovered a pearl of great value, he sold everything he owned and bought it! (vs. 45-46)." Jesus compared His kingdom to jewelry—this is a God after my own heart.

The pearl merchant that Jesus spoke of searched single-mindedly for quality treasure. He wasn't swayed by just any pretty round gem; he was looking to invest in the best. It was his quest. And when he found it, he didn't hesitate to pay full retail price—to go after it with sacrificing gusto.

I admire him—ready to invest all he had once he found a treasure worthy of such sacrifice. He knew what was most valuable, and he stayed after it. He boldly invested all he had, and was happy with that decision. I want to be a woman like that—a woman decisively investing my life in the Kingdom of God without waver and without regret.

Yet there are so many distractions. Shiny things in the marketplace catch my attention. Esteemed things in our culture tempt me to seek glory. Fun things in my life make me feel good and forget my former focus.

Bible commentator Matthew Henry writes, "All the children of men are busy … one would be rich, another would be honourable, another would be learned; but the most are imposed upon, and take up with counterfeits for pearls.… Jesus Christ is a Pearl of great price … in having him, we have enough to make us happy here and for ever."

Do we truly believe that Jesus is enough to make us happy—not just in eternity but here as well? Are you willing to bank everything on the notion that Jesus Christ is the supreme pearl? That's the underlying question of the parable of the pearl buyer, and the underlying question of our lives.

I never did buy that strand of pearls; instead I'm seeking to live as if Jesus is the choicest pearl anyone could find. I want to settle it in my heart that any sacrifice I make for Him or His Kingdom is worth more than the time, money, or effort it may require of me.

I'm choosing to put on Christ as my million-dollar, double strand pearl necklace, day after day. Yes, friends, I'm sporting some biblical bling.

What about you—are you willing today to sell out to the one true thing worth selling out to?

Dear Lord, You are superb, supreme and of surpassing value! Help me remember that today and act accordingly. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
Click here to claim the Already Paid-for Pearl of Great Price for yourself.

Want to win a custom Lisa Leonard Designs necklace with your name and a pearl charm? Come to Rachel’s blog for a chance to win this fabulous necklace and a copy of her new book It’s No Secret: Revealing Divine Truths Every Woman Should Know.

It’s No Secret: Revealing Divine Truths Every Woman Should Know by Rachel Olsen
________________________________________
When you purchase resources through Proverbs 31 Ministries, you touch eternity because your purchase supports the many areas of hope-giving ministry we provide at no cost. We wish we could, but we simply can't compete with prices offered by huge online warehouses. Therefore, we are extremely grateful for each and every purchase you make with us. Thank you! ________________________________________

Application Steps:
What do you know Jesus has been asking you to do that you haven't done? Make the effort and do it. Pay the Pearl's price.

Reflections:
What are you tempted to sell your life out to more than Christ? And what is it's real worth?

Power Verses:
Mark 8:35, "For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me and for the gospel will save it." (NIV)

© 2010 by Rachel Olsen. All rights reserved.

When People Let You Down

Melanie Chitwood

"Trust in Him at all times, O people; Pour out your heart before Him; God is a refuge for us." Psalm 62:8 (NASB)

Disappointment feels like a heavy rock sinking to the bottom of my spirit. I've felt disappointed in many situations – a business opportunity that didn't pan out, a writing door that didn't open, and a relationship that broke my young heart.

The heaviest disappointments for me, however, stem from people. And not just any people; people who I'm closest to. People who turn out to be not at all what I hoped they'd be, or not who I thought they were.

I know I'm not alone in wondering how to deal with people who let me down. Just this week a friend said with a choke in her voice, "I wish my mom and I could be closer, but I don't think we ever will be." Another woman said with despondency, "My husband and I just don't talk." I've heard the edge of bitterness in women's voices as they vow never to trust again because of a friend's betrayal. And most of us have swallowed the hopelessness that comes with a broken heart, "I thought he was the one."

I've tried different ways to handle disappointments in relationships. One way is to ignore the disappointment, to shut it in a box and hope the lid holds. Another way is to gloss over it with a quick statement such as, "People will let you down, but God never will." True, but does this really help me process the hurt?

One morning in my quiet time I was pouring out my sadness, anger and disappointment about a close relationship. As the tears slipped down my face, I begged God to show up. What do I do with all this? Show me and I'll do it because what I've been doing is not working.

Clear as a bell ringing in my spirit, Jesus said, Grieve.

Really? I questioned. I remembered that Jesus knew all about disappointment – Peter's denial, Judas' betrayal, and the disciples falling asleep during His anguish before His crucifixion (Matthew 26). I remembered people in the Bible who were well acquainted with people they loved letting them down, such as Joseph or Job. I felt reassured that Jesus wouldn't misunderstand my sadness as a lack of faith.

So I cried, feeling every ounce of the disappointment. I told God all the things I wish were different about this relationship, all the things I thought this person had done wrong, and what I wish this person would do differently.

After the winds of grief subsided, I was done. Grieving was the bridge I had to cross to move beyond the disappointment. On the other side I found myself in a place where I could embrace the relationship for what it is, not what it's not.

On the other side of grief lies a place where we can consider how to respond to the person who disappointed us. There are a number of possible responses. Sometimes we need to talk to the person or get godly counsel. Other times we may need to create healthy boundaries, or we may need just to let it go. Only after we've allowed ourselves to grieve, however, will we know how to respond to this person in the way that God wants. Then the words, "People will let you down, but God never will," will be truly comforting, not just empty words.

Dear Lord, I'm so thankful that when it feels like no one else understands, You do. You understand about being disappointed in people but You loved them in the midst of that. Lord, I want to follow Your example. I'm thankful You know this sadness is a part of healing from the pain of disappointment. Give me guidance in handling this -I trust that You can bring good out of this. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
Visit Melanie’s blog What Matters Most

Struggling with disappointment in your marriage? Consider Melanie’s books What a Husband Needs from His Wife and What a Wife Needs from Her Husband

The Friends We Keep: A Woman's Quest for the Soul of Friendship by Sarah Zacharias Davis

Share in God’s grace with our free resource, Just a Little Heart Cleaning

Application Steps:
Be honest with yourself as you consider someone who has let you down. Have you grieved over the disappointment? Take time to be alone, to be sad, and to cry if you need to. Let go of bitterness, anger, hurt and unforgiveness. Then ask the Holy Spirit to give you discernment about what to do next in this relationship.

Reflections:
Have I unsuccessfully tried to deny that I am hurt or angry by this disappointing relationship?

Is it possible that I've depended on this person more than God?

How does God what to use this disappointment in my life?

Power Verses:
Psalm 42:11, "Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God." (NIV)

Psalm 94:19b "When I was upset and beside myself, you calmed me down and cheered me up." (MES)

Lamentations 3:23, "…Great is your faithfulness." (NAS)

© 2010 by Melanie Chitwood. All rights reserved.

The God of Learning

Marybeth Whalen

"Bel bows down, Nebo stoops low; their idols are borne by beasts of burden. The images that are carried about are burdensome, a burden for the weary." Isaiah 46:1 (NIV)

Education is important. None of us would disagree with that. But how important is it and what role is it to play in our lives, especially as parents?

This has been a conflict for me as I have made my peace with the need for a good education for my children with my own desires for them to be "the best." While I recognize that education opens doors, I also wonder if perhaps I haven't at times fallen out of step with what God wants me to stress as a parent.

I will admit that I have valued academics over character growth at times.

A friend of mine once said, "Bible is not on the test." I asked her what she meant. She said that she always tells her children that, no matter what they score on standardized testing, she reminds them that there are things that can not be measured with grades or charts. My friend reminded me that our children's character growth and commitment to the Lord are more important than any grade, yet which gets more attention in our society?

In today's verse, Nebo, the god that burdens the Babylonians, is the god of learning. My breath caught in my throat when I read that note in my Bible. God pointed out in scripture that the god of learning burdened the people who worshiped it. I know the god of learning has burdened me during the time I have been a parent.

Whether I was a young parent making sure I exposed my child to all the right things to get them ready for kindergarten; a homeschool parent striving to provide all the right academic curriculum for my young students; or a mom of a public school kid pushing them to make the grades and try harder, I have felt the burden of making a god out of learning.

As parents we should care about our children's performance and grades. We should care about sending them to the right schools and their academic futures. But more than that, we should care about them growing closer to God. I want to give my children a hunger for His Word and ignite in them a passion to chase after Him. But as my friend said, none of that is on the test. At least, not any test the world devises.

With my eye on eternity, I can remove the burden of the god of learning by refocusing on the one true God, and helping my kids to do the same.

Dear Lord, as a parent I want my kids to know You first and foremost. Help me to keep my priorities in perspective and to not put too much stress on academics. Help me to find the balance between doing everything as unto You (including learning) and inspiring my children to follow hard after You. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
P31 Woman magazine

Learning To Live Financially Free by Curt and Marybeth Whalen

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

Visit Marybeth’s blog

For more great parenting ideas, read our free resource Full-time Job

Application Steps:
If you have children, set aside time today to read a Bible story or turn on some praise music.

Praise them for the character qualities you see in them and not their academic achievements or shortcomings.

Reflections:
What place does learning have in your life? Has it become a god to you? To your children? How can you topple that idol in your life and put God first?

Power Verses:
Luke 2:52, "And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man." (NIV)

Isaiah 46:7, "They lift it to their shoulders and carry it; they set it up in its place, and there it stands. From that spot it cannot move. Though one cries out to it, it does not answer; it cannot save him from his troubles." (NIV)

© 2010 by Marybeth Whalen. All rights reserved.

Do You Have a Dream?

Lysa TerKeurst

"If you are faithful in little things, you will be faithful in large ones…" Luke 16:10 (NLT)

Do you have a dream to do something? In my early twenties, I started and failed at five different jobs before helping start Proverbs 31 Ministries. Lately, I've been getting many emails asking how I helped start this ministry. I always wish I could reveal three well defined steps that led me to this place where I'm at today doing what I know I was made to do. But my journey was not well defined nor were there easy steps. I stumbled here.

My friend who asked me to join her in getting this ministry off the ground named it. I was with the ministry for close to four months before it occurred to me that maybe I should read Proverbs chapter 31 in the Bible. I had never done that.

I had an argument with God after reading Proverbs 31, telling Him all the reasons He had definitely called the wrong gal to be part of a ministry named after a woman who truly had it all together.

At that point in my life, I had one child who made me cry every day with feelings of being completely overwhelmed and a struggling marriage.

But God.

I love those two words when you put them together.

He makes a way where there is no way. He loves to use unlikely people so He gets all the credit for any good that comes from their frail and faulty efforts. I'm convinced He wasn't looking for the most qualified person, He was simply looking for a woman who would dare to say yes to Him.

So, how in the world did God ever grow this ministry from the tiniest seed to where it is today?

I'm convinced my job all along was never to figure out how to grow the ministry or how to run a successful ministry. My job all along was to simply be obedient to God. My job was obedience, God's job was results. That's true no matter what we're pursuing - be it a job, a spouse, a calling or a dream.

I had to be obedient to God in the small things and the big things. Some days as a woman in ministry my big job was to change diapers with a good attitude and apologize to my husband for acting so stubborn. Other days it was to have coffee with a woman and simply listen to her heart. Still other days it was to write an article that would only be read by 35 readers of our small little newsletter at the time.

You see God never let this ministry outgrow my capacity to be obedient to Him.

As I put together a team, I looked for people who had the same passion to say yes to God. As He found me and my team faithful with the little things, bigger opportunities came. It hasn't been easy and we certainly have not been found to be obedient every day, but we've been determined to never give up.

Proverbs 31 Ministries unfolded very, very slowly. This ministry has been 17 years of waking up each day, lifting up our willingness to be obedient to God that day, and simply following wherever He leads us with a "yes" heart.

If you feel a tug at your heart to pursue some sort of a dream, let it unfold slowly. And realize you can start today. Simply ask God to place that one obedience-assignment in front of you today and say yes. Who knows what could possibly start from there…

Dear Lord, no matter what the dreams are that You've placed on our hearts, may we be found obedient in the small things first. And help us to remember our job is to be obedient to You and then You will take care of the results. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
Visit Lysa’s interactive website today for a list of three crucial things every woman following a dream should know…click here.

Lysa is speaking in over 40 cities this year and she’d love to meet you! To check for a city near you, click here. Next month Lysa will be in Atlanta at Charles Stanley’s church and then at the Fresh Grounded Faith conference in Seattle, WA. Click here for more information on Atlanta and here for more information on Seattle.

And if you’d like to move from just going through the motions with God to having a thriving relationship with Him, consider getting a copy of Lysa’s latest book, "Becoming More than a Good Bible Study Girl" by clicking here.

Application Steps:
If you are following a dream, keep track of the things God teaches you along the way either through a journal or another remembrance marker.

Reflections:
What are you hoping to gain by reaching your dream? If your ultimate goal is a richer relationship with God, you will never be disappointed.

Power Verses:
Proverbs 3:1-3. "My son, do not forget my teaching, but keep my commands in your heart, for they will prolong your life many years and bring you prosperity. Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart." (NIV)

© 2010 by Lysa TerKeurst. All rights reserved.

Timely Gifts

Lynn Cowell

"Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows." James 1:17 (NIV)

Yesterday was my birthday and birthdays mean gifts! My family is very good about gift-giving and tends to give me something I might have mentioned that I like, but really wouldn't buy for myself. Whatever they choose, they always pick just the right thing at the right time. Several years ago…ok, many, many years ago…for my sweet 16 birthday, my parents gave me a unique keychain with a key to their car. I loved it! That key represented freedom and independence. Exactly what I was craving at that time. It was the right gift at the right time.

If my parents had given me that same gift when I was six, it would have been very strange and inappropriate. At six, I would have wondered what it was for and how to use it. My parents knew what to give and when to give it.

In James 1:17 we are told that God our Father gives good gifts to us, His children. Not only does He give good gifts, but He knows perfectly what to give and when to give it. His gifts are not spur of the moment because He forgot that a special day was on its way. His gifts are all about perfect timing.

When I was five, I couldn't reach my jacket that was hanging on the last peg just above the cement steps that led to our basement. I called out for help, but refused to wait. A tumble down those steps produced a black eye that stayed for a very long time. I didn't trust that those who loved me would come and do what I needed when I wanted it.

Many of us are asking God for help. We are crying out for something we need. The key is, can we wait patiently, trusting that His timing is perfect? Can we trust that He has our best in mind and is working on our behalf?

Sometimes we grow impatient. We want what we want and we want it now. So we make the mistake of trying to get it by ourselves. Have you ever tried to get something by yourself? Is there something in your life that you really want…now?

Is there one thing you feel if you could have, your life would be complete? If you could just have that job at that pay, life would be so much better. If God would just open your womb, the emptiness would finally be gone. If He would just heal your broken, cold marriage, your heart would be joyful. If He would just fulfill that lifelong dream, you would be content. Are you tempted, like me, to get that thing any way you can, even with the possibility you could end up with way more than a black eye?

There are times with all of our prayers He seems to answer "no" or at least "not now." It is here, where our desires intersect His will that we have to trust the Father knows best and every gift comes from Him. Every time, in His time, the gift is good and perfect.

I have seen God's perfect gifts in my life as I have waited on Him. Waited on Him for a husband. Waited on Him to open doors for ministry. Waited on Him to draw my kids to Himself. I see my history with Him and I'm going to choose to keep on waiting for His good and perfect gifts.

Dear Lord, waiting on You is so hard! My heart wants to get things moving, step up and take action. Help me to always bring my desires to You, knowing that You always have my best at heart. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
Order Wendy Pope’s CD What to Do in the W.A.I.T.: Finding Contentment in God’s Pauses and Plans

Visit Lynn’s blog to share and encourage others with your story of when you have waited and seen God’s perfect and good gifts!

My Prince will Come: Getting Ready for My Lord's Return by Sheri Rose Shepherd

When God Says No, Keep Asking offers more free encouragement!

Walking with God in the Quiet Places: Devotions for Women by Various Authors including Lysa TerKeurst

Reflections:
Am I currently in a waiting place? Am I waiting in faith, expecting to see God's good and perfect gift or am I living in a place of frustration because He doesn't seem to be doing things my way in my time?

How can I begin to honor God while I am waiting?

What type of testimony am I writing each day that I am waiting?

Power Verses:
Psalm 27:14, "Wait for the LORD; be strong and take heart and wait for the LORD." (NIV)

Psalm 33:20, "We wait in hope for the LORD; he is our help and our shield." (NIV)

© 2010 by Lynn Cowell. All rights reserved.

Sanctuary Isn't a Great Pair of Jeans

Lynn Cowell

"We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain, where Jesus who went before us, has entered on our behalf…" Hebrews 6:19-20a (NIV)

As I got dressed, the brand name label in my jeans caught my eye: Sanctuary. Really? They definitely are my favorite pair of jeans, but could they really be considered a sanctuary?

This word "sanctuary" keeps showing up in my life. My family recently took a much needed respite away from our busy and demanding schedules. We went to a place whose motto is "Escape completely." That sounded perfect to me.

One morning, I headed to a spot they called "The Sanctuary." Anticipating a great time with the Lord, I found a quiet chair overlooking the peaceful water. Settling in, I had my Bible open and journal and pen in hand when I heard "Excuse me Ma'am. Do you have your Sanctuary card?" Sanctuary card? You've got to be kidding? I have to have a separate card to get into "The Sanctuary?" I picked up my things and found another cozy spot two feet outside of "The Sanctuary" where I didn't have to have the appropriate card to meet with God.

Opening my Bible again I could hardly believe my reading:

"We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain, where Jesus who went before us, has entered on our behalf…" (Hebrews 6:19, NIV).

I had not been allowed to enter "The Sanctuary" two feet away because I didn't have the right card, but because of Jesus, I could enter the true sanctuary…His presence.

The Bible says a true sanctuary is not a place created with comfy chairs, soft music and views of the water. It is a place where the presence of God pours over us like a healing balm and Jehovah-Rophe, our healer, is present.

Combining the many definitions of sanctuary in the dictionary, I created this one: A place in God's presence where I can find shelter or protection from danger or trouble, finding relief and escape, and exemption from liability and prosecution.

The Psalmist spoke of his need for just such a sanctuary throughout Psalm 73:
Surely God is good to Israel, to those who are pure in heart.

But as for me, my feet had almost slipped; I had nearly lost my foothold.

(Sometimes in life, I feel like I'm hanging on the edge. Something has happened; causing me to feel like I'm going to lose it. What are you doing, God?)

For I envied the arrogant when I saw the prosperity of the wicked.

They have no struggles; their bodies are healthy and strong.

They are free from the burdens common to man; they are not plagued by human ills.

This is what the wicked are like—always carefree, they increase in wealth.

(Sometimes in the middle of our pain, we look around at others, and ask – "Why is their life going well? And why isn't this Christian life thing working for me?)

Surely in vain have I kept my heart pure; in vain have I washed my hands in innocence.

All day long I have been plagued; I have been punished every morning.

(He just doesn't get it. Why is his life a mess? Can you relate?)

When I tried to understand all this, it was oppressive to me till I entered the sanctuary of God; then I understood their final destiny.

(In the sanctuary of God, things changed. In the presence of Jehovah-Rophe my healer, I can find relief; escape and exemption from liability and prosecution. I find healing.)

Yet I am always with you; you hold me by my right hand.

You guide me with your counsel, and afterward you will take me into glory.

Whom have I in heaven but you? And earth has nothing I desire besides you.

My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.

But as for me, it is good to be near God. I have made the Sovereign LORD my refuge; I will tell of all your deeds (verses:1-5, 12-14, 16-17, and 23-28).

Sounds like the Psalmist really got it and it doesn't sound to me like a sanctuary can really be a pair of jeans!

Dear Lord, sometimes I feel like I need to escape completely. May the only place I escape to be You. When I feel like I want to run, help me to run straight into Your arms! In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
Do You Know Him?

The Wonder of His Love: A Journey into the Heart of God by Nancy Stafford

When a Woman Meets Jesus: Finding the Love Every Woman Longs For by Dorothy Valcarcel

Find sweet encouragement with our free resource The Shelter

You are My Hiding Place, Lord: Finding Peace in God's Presence by Emilie Barnes

Application Steps:
Want to learn some ways to run into God's presence in the middle of your hectic life? Join Lynn at her blog today for some fresh ideas!

Reflections:
Are you making it a point to come into God's presence, His sanctuary, on a regular basis in order to be refreshed by Him?

When you feel like escaping, what is the thing that you turn to?

If you are not running to Him when you feel like running, what can you do to change that habit?

Power Verses:
Psalm 73:28, "But as for me, it is good to be near God. I have made the Sovereign LORD my refuge; I will tell of all your deeds." (NIV)

© 2010 by Lynn Cowell. All rights reserved.

Sharing Grace

LeAnn Rice, Executive Director, Proverbs 31 Ministries

"Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms." 1 Peter 4:10 (NIV)

Five years ago I took a spiritual gift test and failed! Well, in my assessment, I failed.

I had high hopes that the test would confirm that I have the spiritual gifts of wisdom, discernment, evangelism or mercy. You know…a good, useful gift. A change-the-world kind of gift. I was crushed to discover that I do not possess any of what I perceived as the "good" gifts.

Since I was sure I knew myself better than this silly test, I took it again. I ended up taking the spiritual gifts test five times! Sadly, each one confirmed that I was stuck with the frivolous gift of hospitality. Seriously? I wanted to be a wise sage and soul-winning evangelist, not a hostess!

Shortly after my testing marathon I read today's key verse. Reading it a second time, my eyes lingered over the words "whatever gift." It doesn't say, "Only those of you with the gift of leadership or evangelism go and serve others." As I pondered this verse I came to realize that as a body of Christians we could not accomplish nearly as much if we all had the same gifts. I began to embrace my gift of hospitality and God showed me that He could use my ability to create a fancy meal or decorate a beautiful table to make others feel special. I can administer God's grace through what I thought was fluff!

What gift(s) has God given you? If you haven't yet determined your spiritual gift(s), spend some time thinking about what you do well, what hidden talent you may have, and what you have a passion for. Ask your friends what they think your talents are.

Then ask God how you can use these gifts to share His grace with others. If you are a musician, consider playing at a local retirement center or soup kitchen. If you love to scrapbook, consider organizing memories for someone who is unable to do so for themselves. If you have great computer skills, consider helping women at a shelter put together resumes or teach them computer skills to help them secure a job.

I have learned that my "frivolous" gift of hospitality is not so frivolous after all. Extending hospitality, simple or extravagant, is a tangible way to share God's love and His grace with family, friends, co-workers, and strangers. My prayer is that every day, God will provide me with new opportunities to use the gifts He has bestowed upon me for His kingdom and for His glory.

Dear Lord, thank You that You have gifted each of us differently. Help me to discover the gifts You have given to me so that I may use them to administer Your grace to everyone around me. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
Visit our new site She Cooks today!

Click here for an awesome giveaway and to see how LeAnn is using her gift of hospitality to reach others with the grace of God. Come for recipes, menus, and special event planning, but stay for much more! LeAnn is looking forward to spending time cooking together.

Do You Know Him?

Sharing Grace: Recipes - Family Traditions - Gift Ideas by LeAnn Rice

A Life That Says Welcome, Simple Ways to Open Your Heart & Home to Others by Karen Ehman

Shaped with Purpose Workbook and CD: Discovering Your God-given Gifts, Passions, Personality and Abilities by Renee Swope

Application Steps:
How can I purposefully use my spiritual gifts to share God's love and grace with those around me?

Reflections:
Reflect on 1 Peter 4:9-11a, "Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ." (NIV)

Am I truly being a good steward of the gifts entrusted to me by the Holy Spirit, using them to serve others and to glorify Christ and not merely for my own personal gain or enjoyment?

Power Verses:
Romans 12:4-6a, "Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. We have different gifts, according to the grace given us." (NIV)

1 Corinthians 12:4-6, "There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but the same God works all of them in all men." (NIV)

© 2010 by LeAnn Rice. All rights reserved.

The Treasure of Thrown Away Food

Lysa TerKeurst

"But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ." 1 Corinthians 15:57 (NIV)

If there was ever a secret for unleashing God's powerful peace in a situation, it's developing a heart of true thanksgiving. My son, Jackson, knows this. I came to understand how powerfully he knows this when editing a paper he wrote recently. Jackson hasn't always lived in the safety and security of our home. For the first 13 years of his life, he lived in a forgotten orphanage in the third world country of Liberia, Africa.

Jackson's paper was about the corruption and greed that caused the civil war in his native land. He did a great job recounting the facts of the story. But the difference between Jackson and most other kids explaining a historical event, is before we adopted him - he lived in the midst of the horrific conditions of this war.

During one part of the paper, he described what it felt like to be naked digging through the trash looking for the treasure of thrown away food.

The treasure of thrown away food.

I can hardly type those words without crying. This is my son.

And yet, despite the horrific conditions of his childhood there was an unexplainable thread of peace woven through his recollection of the story. A powerful peace centered in the awareness of God's presence.

The truly thankful person is a truly peaceful person. They have made a habit no matter what to notice, pause and choose.

Noticing something for which to be thankful no matter what circumstance they're in.

Pausing to acknowledge this something as a reminder of God's presence.

Choosing to focus on God's presence until His powerful peace is unleashed.

I doubt any of us will find our treasure in thrown away food today. But will we be a noticer, a pauser, a chooser - a person of thanksgiving no matter what circumstance we're facing? I find this truth about the power of thanksgiving over and over in Scripture. What was the prayer Daniel prayed right before being thrown in the lion's den and witnessing God miraculously shutting the lion's mouths? Thanksgiving.

After three days in the belly of a fish, what was the cry of Jonah's heart right before he was finally delivered onto dry land? Thanksgiving.

How are we instructed to pray in Philippians 4:6 when we feel anxious? With thanksgiving.

And what is the outcome of each of these situations where thanksgiving is proclaimed? Peace.

Powerful, unexplainable, uncontainable peace.

"And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus," (Philippians 4:7, NIV).

One of Webster's official definitions of thanksgiving is: "a public acknowledgment or celebration of divine goodness."

I wonder how we might celebrate God's divine goodness today?

I wonder what might happen if we decide in the midst of our circumstances today to notice, pause, and choose something for which we can truly be thankful….

Dear Lord, will You help me to notice things for which I can be thankful in each circumstance I face today? Will You help me remember to pause and acknowledge this as evidence of Your presence? And will You help me to remember to choose to focus on Your presence until Your powerful peace rushes into my heart and helps me see everything more clearly? Thank You for the reality that being thankful truly changes everything. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
We are writing a thankful journal on my blog today. You can get there by clicking here. Be sure to visit and write down some things for which you are thankful and it will automatically enter you to win a signed copy of my latest book, Becoming More than a Good Bible Study Girl.

I’m speaking in over 40 cities this year and would love to meet you! To check for a city near you, click here.

Get a copy of my latest book, "Becoming More than a Good Bible Study Girl" by clicking here.

The accompanying DVD teaching series can be found by clicking here. It contains 6 sessions lasting 15-20 minutes each on one DVD for only $24.99! Perfect for your Bible study group or as a neighborhood Book Club. The Bible Study workbook can be found by clicking here.

Application Steps:
Start a thankful journal where you daily list five things each day for which you are thankful. Do this for the next 30 days and see how much more peaceful your mindset about life becomes.

Reflections:
What makes you grumpy and steals your propensity to be thankful?

Think of someone in your sphere of influence who is really thankful. Despite the circumstances they face, are they more peaceful? How does this inspire you?

Power Verses:
1 Chronicles 16:34, "Oh, give thanks to the LORD, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever." (NKJ)

1 Chronicles 23: 30, "They were also to stand every morning to thank and praise the LORD. They were to do the same in the evening." (NIV)

© 2010 by Lysa TerKeurst. All rights reserved.

Time for Plan A!

Amy Carroll

"'But the Lord forbid that I should lay a hand on the Lord's anointed. Now get the spear and water jug that are near his head, and let's go.'" I Samuel 26:11 (NIV)

He had the perfect opportunity not once, but twice, yet he waited. Twice David faced a tempting decision. Should he kill the vulnerable king or wait on God's timing? David chose to wait while seemingly living out "Plan B."

David spent years waiting between the time he was anointed as the king of all Israel to the time when he officially wore the title. They were years spent in fields with sheep, in the palace as the reigning king's musician, and in caves on the run from Saul's murderous rage. However, the Psalms record for us that David never lost faith. Instead of despairing that "Plan A" would never surface and come to fruition, David declared, "But I am like an olive tree flourishing in the house of God; I trust in God's unfailing love for ever and ever. I will praise you forever for what you have done; in your name I will hope, for your name is good. I will praise you in the presence of your saints" (Psalm 52:8-9, NIV).

He trusted that God would never waste one moment, circumstance or trial. He steadfastly believed that each incident could be used to bring about God's promise that had been given years before. He held fast to the hope that he would someday be king without taking matters into his own hands.

That day finally came. After lamenting Saul and Jonathan's deaths, David inquired of the Lord, followed His directions and declared himself as king. David was ready to step into God's perfect plan in God's perfect timing. He never looked back to the fields and caves, but rather walked forward into his destiny with all the experience and wisdom God had given him through the many steps it took to get there.

I've had to make similar decisions as I've asked myself these questions: Do I wait for God's promise to be fulfilled in His time or do I work to make something happen in my own strength? While I'm waiting to walk in the fullness of what I believe He's called me to, will I trust Him to use each step along the way for my good and His glory? When it's finally time to move into a new season of promises fulfilled, will I walk forward into that exciting new place or will I look back over my shoulder and choose to stay where it's safe and known?

These are the decisions that have been facing me this year. Over a year ago, I heard God whisper a calling and a promise into my heart. I could look back and see how all my education, previous jobs and experiences have been building blocks for this dream. At times, some of those places have seemed like "Plan B," but they never were. Each step of obedience has brought me to this new place.

In February, I had to make a decision to stay in my job or leave for something new. It's a job that I have been called to in the past, but this time God said "no." He brought me to the realization that choosing this job over the calling would be to choose "Plan B" and furthermore, it would be disobedience. God always calls His children to walk on the "Plan A" path. There may be discomfort, waiting, and trials on this path, but obedience is always "Plan A" and where the blessings lie!

Dear Lord, help me to always walk in Your "Plan A" even when it's hard. I want to make choices in Your perfect timing that lead me forward with You instead of simply staying where it's safe. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
Streams in the Desert by L.B. Cowman

Visit Amy’s blog

What to do in the W.A.I.T: Finding Contentment in God's Pauses and Plans (CD) by Wendy Pope

Check out our radio program, Do I Trust Jesus?

Brokenness, Surrender, Holiness by Nancy Leigh DeMoss

Application Steps:
Take some time for evaluation. List some ways that you can see that God has worked in your past to build your future.

Reflections:
Have you chosen a safe path that is not in obedience to God?

Is being outside of God's will really worth what you're missing in say "yes" to Him?

Power Verses:
Psalm 31:14-15a, "But I trust in you, O Lord; I say, 'You are my God.' My times are in your hands; deliver me from my enemies and from those who pursue me." (NIV)

Psalm 37:18, "The days of the blameless are known to the Lord, and their inheritance will endure forever." (NIV)

Jeremiah 29:11, "'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.'" (NIV)

© 2010 by Amy Carroll. All rights reserved.

Casting Your Cares

Micca Monda Campbell

"And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus" Philippians 4:19 (KJV)

God must have anticipated certain events in the lives of His children that would cause them to become "worry-warts." Even the most mature Christians today are quick to labor under the burden of anxious and excessive care. We worry over personal concerns, family woes, financial woes, cares of the past, and cares for the future.

The Apostle Peter saw this anxious care as a heavy burden and offered us some wise counsel for dealing with it. Peter's advice is to cast all our cares upon God. We are to throw the cares that distract us, wound our bodies and souls, and lay heavy on our hearts, upon the wise and gracious providence of God. You can do that because "he cares for you." (1 Peter 5:7) Isn't that awesome? You and I don't have to carry the burden of our worries. God is willing to release us from our cares, and take our concerns upon Himself.

That sounds great. I have no problem casting my cares upon God. At first, the weight is lifted. That is, until God doesn't respond to my need like I think He should. Then it becomes hard for me to not retrieve the burden.

After I lost my husband, I suffered with severe stomach pain. It was how my body dealt with the stress. I assumed by casting my situation on God and asking Him to carry the burden, my stomach troubles would go away. I also expected to not have the burden of going to counseling once a week and not paying that extra bill. But none of that ceased. I kept having stomach pain, which meant I still needed counseling for my grief. I had also hoped that the counselor would at least ease my debt, instead, she went up on her prices.

What was the point of giving my burden to God in the first place if he wasn't going to make it all go away? I wondered.

The point is this: when you and I cast our cares on God, we are acknowledging that it's His responsibility to care for us. We often forget that God is painting on a large canvas. He sees the big picture. We only see what's happening to us at the moment. That's why God allows events to come into our lives—good things and bad things; things that make sense and things that don't.

What you and I may think is harmful and destructive God can use for our good—to bring us to completion in godly conduct and character. He will allow nothing to happen to us that isn't first filtered through His screen of protection.

Ultimate harm would be if God left our character in the state that He found us in. During turbulent times, you and I have this promise, "We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed" (2 Corinthians 4: 8, 9; NIV). God will not let our hardships destroy us. Though they may be tragic in and of themselves, He will use them for our good.

You and I can cast our worries on God because it's His responsibility to care for us. As we trust Him with the bigger picture of our lives, the weight is lifted and peace washes over our anxieties.

Dear Lord, When hard times come, I will not be afraid. I trust in Your loving care to provide for my family and me. Take my burden, Lord, and replace my worry with peace. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
This devotion was taken from Micca’s book, An Untroubled Heart

Do You Know Him?

Cultivating Contentment message on CD by Micca Campbell

Visit Micca’s blog

Application Steps:
Acknowledge God as your Provider. Talk to Him about your burden and place it in His care. When doubt temps you to retrieve it, remember that God is in control; He loves you beyond measure and is working behind the scene on your behalf.

Reflections:
Why is it hard to let go of your burdens and trust them to God?

What is one way you can wait on God until He shows up with a solution?

Power Verses:
Philippians 4:6-7, "Do not be anxious about anything but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your request to God. And the peace of god, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." (NIV)

© 2010 by Micca Campbell. All rights reserved.

Hold That Thought!

Luann Prater

"Another disciple said to him, 'Lord, first let me go and bury my father.'" Matthew 8:21 (NIV)

In the movie Bolt, a self-centered Hollywood agent constantly tells his child star, "We'll just stick a pin in that." He holds an imaginary push pin in the air and pretends to shove it into an invisible cork board as he says it. He's claiming he'll save that thought/question/request until later and revisit it. But what he really means is, "Get out of here with that request! Not happening!"

The disciple in today's key verse says basically the same thing to Jesus, "Uh, master, hold that thought. Love what you're doing here, want to be a part of it, really I do. Just need to step over here and handle this task first. You understand, right?" The three telling words in this passage are "first let me…"

We are busy, aren't we? If I tell you how busy I am maybe you won't ask me to do something else. Maybe you will think I'm super spiritual because I have so much going on in my life. Don't.
When I am the busiest I really am the most self-absorbed. I'm just being honest here. When there is so much to do often the most important things get shoved to the side or don't make the list at all.

Have you ever said this, "Once I get _____ done, then my life will calm down"? You are not alone. It's an easy habit to develop, but a hard one to break!

Hi, my name is Luann and I'm addicted to activity. Embarrassed to admit it, but got to have a real moment with you. God makes a simple request in my life and yours: "Follow Me." But all too often those four words, "first let me _______," slip past my lips. You can fill in the blank with whatever you put before what Jesus is calling you to. Instead of Jesus telling you, 'let the dead bury their own dead,' maybe He's saying:

"Follow Me, and let the kids wait a minute."
"Follow Me, and let the phone ring."
"Follow Me, and let the dishes sit."
"Follow Me, and reschedule the appointment."
"Follow Me, and let the Facebook and Twitter friends wonder where you are."
"Follow Me, and put everything else on your to-do list after Me. Deal?"

It's time to stop putting God on hold. It's time to stop using everything in our life as an excuse not to do "first things first."

Hold that thought …first let me drop to my knees and pray that God will give me a yearning to put Him first.

Dear Lord, I'm sorry that anything has taken first place in my life besides You. Forgive me and teach me this day to begin with You. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
Do You Know Him?

When a Woman Meets Jesus: Finding the Love Every Woman Longs For by Dorothy Valcarcel

His Princess: Prayers to My King by Sheri Rose Shepherd

Spend Saturday afternoons with Luann on Encouragement Café

Intimacy with God: Establishing a Vibrant Quiet Time and Prayer Time by Tara Furman

Application Steps:
Get in the habit of putting Jesus first by spending quiet time with Him before anything else happens in the morning. Beginning in John, read one verse a day and ask God to reveal something new to you. Then write down the first thing that comes to mind.

Reflections:
What is the most important thing in my life?

When do I put Jesus on the list?

How can I stop putting Jesus on hold?

Power Verses:
Matthew 6:33, "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." (NIV)

Luke 9:62, "No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God." (NIV)

© 2010 by Luann Prater. All rights reserved.