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Daily Devotion

3/31/2016

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Proverbs 31 Ministries
Lysa TerKeurst

“Planning Funerals that Won’t Happen Today”

“My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place, when I was woven together in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.”
Psalm 139:15-16 (NIV)

Several years ago, my then‑teenage son came to me and asked if he could take his brother and sisters to go get ice cream. How fun! How thoughtful! “Sure,” I said, “Let me grab my keys and we’ll go.”

“No, Mom … we sort of want to go just us kids,” he quickly replied.

“Oh,” and that’s about all I could get my mouth to say as my brain started racing and reeling. In my mind, pictures started flashing of a terrible accident, a phone call from the police, planning a funeral and then thinking back to this moment when I could have said No.

And it was that strange sense that everything depended on me and my decisions that made me want to say: No. Absolutely not. You will stay home today. You will all stay home forever. I have to keep you safe.

Why do we moms do that? Most of us live with this gnawing, aching, terrifying fear that something will happen to one of our children. We carry the pressure that ultimately everything rises and falls on whether or not we can control things. And mentally, too often we plan funerals that won’t happen today.

We do it because we know the realities of living in a broken world where car accidents do happen. Tragedy strikes old and young alike. We have no guarantees for tomorrow. And that’s really hard on a mama’s heart.

I stood at the front window of my house chewing my nails and watching as the entire contents of my mama heart piled into one car.

And I realized I had a choice.

I could run myself ragged creating a false sense of control that can’t really protect them. Or, I could ask God to help me make wise decisions and choose to park my mind on the truth.

The truth is:

God has assigned each of my kids a certain number of days.

My choices can add to the quality of their life, but not the quantity. They could be at home tucked underneath my wings and if it’s their day to go be with Jesus, they will go.

Our key verse confirms this: “My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place, when I was woven together in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be” (Psalm 139:15-16).

Jesus conquered death so we don’t have to be afraid of it any longer.

Of course, the death of anyone I love would make me incredibly sad, heartbroken and dazed with grief. But I don’t have to be held captive by the fear of death.

“Since the children have flesh and blood, he (Jesus) too shared in their humanity so that by his death he might break the power of him who holds the power of death--that is, the devil--and free those who all their lives were held in slavery by their fear of death” (Hebrews 2:14-15, NIV).

Death is only a temporary separation. We will be reunited again.

In 2 Samuel 12, when David’s infant child died, he confidently said, “I shall go to him, but he shall not return to me” (v. 23b KJV). David knew he would see his child again-- not just a faceless soul without an identity, but this child for whom he was longing. He would know him, hold him, kiss him and the separation death caused would be over.

I know these are heavy things to process on a Thursday morning. And I certainly don’t claim that these truths will help you never ever fear again. But I do hope these truths will settle your heart into a better place. A place where your heart is consumed with truth instead of fear.

Dear Lord, the fear of something happening to one of my children is so raw. But if I focus on this fear, it will consume me. Instead help me focus on You, so I’ll only be consumed with Your truth, Your love, Your insights and Your power. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

TRUTH FOR TODAY:

Isaiah 26:3, “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.” (NIV)

Matthew 6:27, “Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?” (NIV)
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Daily Devotion

3/23/2016

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Proverbs 31 Ministries
Tracie Miles

“She Got More Likes Than I Did”

“Even before he made the world, God loved us and chose
us in Christ to be holy and without fault in his eyes.”
Ephesians 1:4 (NLT)

“Should I delete my Instagram pic? I only got 12 likes in the first five minutes,” I overheard one of my daughters say to the other.

In typical mom fashion, I took that opportunity to remind them that their beauty, value and self‑worth did not hinge on the opinions, approvals or disapprovals of others, much less how many “likes” they received on a picture.

And of course, in typical young adult fashion, I got a couple of eye rolls. But that’s okay. Because every now and then, we all need to be reminded of the truth.

I get where they’re coming from, especially considering today’s online culture. I vividly remember what it felt like as a young girl to long for the approval and acceptance of others. I also remember the insecurities that festered in my heart over feeling like I didn’t measure up or wasn’t accepted by my peers, or by boys.

I remember the painful sting of rejection or being excluded--and that was long before everything was on the Internet.

Unfortunately, those longings for acceptance, approval and love don’t end after high school or even college. Deep‑seated insecurities and the hurt of feeling rejected and unwanted are no less painful as an adult. In fact, those emotions are often personified as we look at others’ social media pages and see how many “friends” they have, how perfect their families look, how awesome their husbands seem to be, how great their lives appear and how many “likes” they get on their photos.

But the truth is, behind those photos, real life happens. And it’s not always pretty or perfect. In fact, those same women we think have it all together or get the most “likes,” probably struggle with deep hidden hurts and the constant unmet need to feel accepted and wanted. To feel loved and treasured, instead of set aside and rejected. To feel we’re enough, instead of inadequate.

I’m one of those women. Maybe you are, too.

But what comfort it brings to read Paul’s words to God’s people in today’s key verse: “Even before he made the world, God loved us and chose us in Christ to be holy and without fault in his eyes” (Ephesians 1:4).

How reassuring to know there is One who always accepts us and thinks we are priceless. But the reassurances don’t stop there. Paul continues by telling believers, “God decided in advance to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to himself through Jesus Christ. This is what he wanted to do, and it gave him great pleasure. So we praise God for the glorious grace he has poured out on us who belong to his dear Son. He is so rich in kindness and grace that he purchased our freedom with the blood of his Son and forgave our sins. He has showered his kindness on us, along with all wisdom and understanding” (Ephesians 1:5-8, NLT).

Whether we are 9‑ or 99‑years‑old, we all want to feel accepted, loved, approved of and liked. Maybe you long for the acceptance and love from a husband, a child, a friend or a community. Maybe there are days when you wonder if you are enough. Days when you lose sight of all the wonderful, unique things about yourself and instead focus on all the wonderful, unique things about everyone else. Everyone else who seems to be more accepted and “liked” than you.

Those are the days when the verses from Ephesians 1 become the perfect poetry to recite in our hearts. They serve as sweet reminders that we have not only been individually chosen by a sovereign God, but that we are also blessed, accepted, forgiven and redeemed. And you can’t get any more “liked” than that.

Lord, thank You for choosing me and loving me despite my flaws. Help me to remember this truth on days when I’m feeling like I’m not enough. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

TRUTH FOR TODAY:

Isaiah 42:1a, “Look at my servant, whom I strengthen. He is my chosen one, who pleases me.” (NLT)

1 John 4:18, “There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear.” (ESV)

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Daily Devotion

3/22/2016

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By Shawna @ DaySpring
“Remembering Holy Week--Its History and Meaning”

“Hosanna to the Son of David! ‘Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!’ Hosanna in the highest.”
Matthew 21:9 (ESV)

And with those words…Holy Week began. As we begin Holy Week and head toward Easter Sunday, let’s remember the events leading to Christ’s crucifixion and resurrection and acknowledge their meaning.

On the Sunday before His crucifixion, Jesus was welcomed into Jerusalem with coats and branches laid at His feet and people praising Him. Those shouting Hosanna, or “save us,” were looking for an earthly warrior to rescue them from the harsh Roman rule.

Today, when we shout Hosanna, we recognize that Jesus came to be our personal Savior, to save us from the penalty of our sins. So on Palm Sunday, as we celebrate Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem, we’re lifting our Hosannas to the only One who can truly save our lives.

Throughout Holy Week many significant things occurred, but the most significant events started on Thursday. This was the evening when Jesus and His disciples met in the upper room to observe the Passover, now known as “The Last Supper.” After washing His disciples’ feet, Jesus held communion with them, also called the Lord’s Supper. He charged His disciples to eat the bread while thinking of His broken body and to drink the wine while thinking of His blood (Luke 22:19-20). Imagine how mystified those men must have been until the events of the next day unfolded.

After praying passionately in the Garden of Gethsemane in the late hours of Thursday night into Friday morning, Jesus was then betrayed by Judas and arrested. Over the next few hours, He was abandoned, falsely accused, beaten, mocked and condemned to death. And those who just a few days earlier were hailing Him as their King were suddenly yelling, “Crucify Him!” How many of us have just given up after experiencing only a fraction of the hatred and opposition He endured? Yet knowing what lay ahead of Him, He stood there silently and humbly.

Wearing nothing but a crown of thorns, Christ was hoisted up on a cross to hang in humiliation and endure an excruciatingly painful death. He was the Lamb of God, the ultimate sacrifice for the sins of the world. “God made Him who had no sin to be sin for us…” (2 Corinthians 5:21 NIV). How great His love for each of us must truly be to have taken the punishment we deserve upon Himself!  We’re like tiny grasshoppers compared to Him (Isaiah 40:22), yet He cared enough to do all that for us. This is why we must never forget how awesome His love is!

At 3 p.m. on Good Friday, Jesus breathed His last and died. He was placed in a tomb, which was sealed shut with a large stone and guarded by Roman soldiers.

Although Holy Week ends on Saturday, praise God the story doesn’t end there! On Easter Sunday morning, the stone that sealed the tomb was rolled away, and Jesus was resurrected (John 20). He overcame death so that those who trust in Him could also overcome death and one day live with Him in Heaven for all eternity.

Holy Week is about remembering the only One who is truly holy - Jesus Christ. This week, let’s take time to gratefully remember and keep alive in our hearts what Jesus, the perfect Lamb and the risen Savior, did for us 2,000 years ago. He came. He died. And He rose again, so we could live in eternity with a loving God who gave His life for us in the greatest way possible.

As we walk through Holy Week, we encourage you to revisit the details of Christ’s crucifixion, death and resurrection. Try reading through Mark 14-16. Take your time this week to read slowly and thoughtfully, as you prayerfully think about each of the events described there and their deep and life-changing meaning for each of us.
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Daily Devotion

3/21/2016

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Proverbs 31 Ministries
Lynn Cowell

“What Should I Pray for My Children?”

“‘What is it you want?’ he asked. She said, ‘Grant that one of these two sons of mine may sit at your right and the other at your left in your kingdom.’”
Matthew 20:21 (NIV)

“You don’t know what you’re asking.”

Have you ever wanted to make this statement to a loved one when their request seemed so big it teetered on crazy?

Jesus did.

After sharing with His disciples that He would soon be killed, the mother of James and John decided this was the right time to ask Jesus for a favor.

Matthew 20:20-21 tells us: “Then the mother of Zebedee’s sons came to Jesus with her sons and, kneeling down, asked a favor of him. ‘What is it you want?’ he asked. She said, ‘Grant that one of these two sons of mine may sit at your right and the other at your left in your kingdom.’”

What a bold woman! She just asked Jesus to make her sons His favorites in His kingdom.

Jesus answered her request in the next verse: “You don’t know what you are asking” (Matthew 20:22a, NIV).

This mom was asking Jesus to make her sons great--to give them the most prominent places in God’s kingdom.

What mom doesn’t want greatness for her children? I have definitely been that bold, even begging Jesus at times “to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine” in the lives of my kids just like Ephesians 3:20 says. These are good, even Biblically correct prayers.

But as I continue to read this chapter, I hear Jesus saying to me, just like He said to James and John’s mother, “You don’t know what you are asking” (Matthew 20:22).

As Matthew 20 continues, Jesus goes on to tell the disciples that as His followers, their life journeys would not be easy. In fact, if becoming great was what they really wanted, Jesus told them there was only one way to obtain greatness: become a servant.

“…whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave” (Matthew 20:26-27, NIV).

My prayers are challenged by Jesus’ words. First, I am stirred by the question Jesus poses to the mother of two disciples. Not only do I hear Him asking, “What is it you want?” but there’s a deeper question: “Why do you want it?”

When I am praying, asking God to do great things for and in the lives of my family, what is my motive?

My reflection took me to one conclusion: the mother of James and John--and this mom--might have something in common. My requests of Jesus, my prayers, are often positioned from pride.

I see pride because I want my kids to succeed because I believe who they are and what they do reflects on me. I’ve made that terrible mistake of equating what they do to how I did as their mom.

Jesus says that to become great in His kingdom, my family, beginning with me, must do one thing: Become a servant. Yes, becoming great has to do with accomplishments, but not the type of accomplishments I may be thinking.

Great accomplishments to Jesus are acts that serve others.

My point today is not to encourage us to stop praying powerful prayers over our families. No, indeed we are to be praying fervently and without ceasing. It’s part of what we do as moms and as investors in the lives of others.

But maybe we need to truly understand God’s definition of great. Keeping a pulse on our hearts’ motives, let’s pray that above all else, the Holy Spirit will empower us to be humble and become servants for Him and others.

And may we pray for God’s best in and for our families for the sake of His kingdom and not for the glory of our own.

Lord, may we become great as You define greatness. Create in us the heart of a servant, choosing to work for Your glory and fame and not our own. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

TRUTH FOR TODAY:

Mark 9:35, “Sitting down, Jesus called the Twelve and said, ‘Anyone who wants to be first must be the very last, and the servant of all.’” (NIV)

Luke 22:26, “But you are not to be like that. Instead, the greatest among you should be like the youngest, and the one who rules like the one who serves.” (NIV)
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Daily Devotion

3/18/2016

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Proverbs 31 Ministries
Glynnis Whitwer

“Does Anyone Appreciate All I Do?”

“But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.”
Matthew 6:6 (NIV)

After finishing a big project at work, I was pretty proud of myself. Although most of my part had been behind the scenes, I hoped someone had noticed. The next few days, I checked and rechecked my emails and texts, waiting for an “atta girl” or “well done” message. But none came.

While I was slightly disappointed, I didn’t make a big deal of it … that was until another person in the organization completed one small task as part of my bigger project and was praised effusively.

Although I joined my thanks in the responses, my heart became very sad when my name wasn’t mentioned.

The lack of notice hurt more than it should have. And over the next few weeks, my feelings got hurt with increased intensity, and I began to wonder if anyone appreciated all I do for them. It started at work but spread to home.

When my kids left shoes in the living room I’d just picked up, or my husband didn’t say thank you for dinner, the hurt grew.

When I finally broke down in tears one afternoon, I realized something had gotten mixed up. Why did my heart get bent out of shape when I didn’t get the praise and acknowledgement I thought I deserved?

As I took some time to think this through, it seemed like somewhere over the previous months, my desire to serve my Savior was overshadowed by a desire for approval from others.

Jesus taught on this very topic in Matthew 5 and 6. He gathered His disciples for a lesson on life in His Kingdom, which was radically different from the dusty streets of Galilee they knew. In this world, we do look to others for approval. But it’s very different in the Kingdom of God.

Jesus wanted His disciples to understand an important truth: God is always watching. Whether our work is on a public stage or done in the quietness of our homes, God sees. And when we do things with a heart to serve Him, He rewards us with His pleasure.

However, when we work with impure motives or just to gain others’ approval, that is our reward … temporary and superficial.

It seems our heart motive makes the difference. Jesus cut right to the core issue in Matthew 6:1: “Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven” (NIV).

The Jews were all about parading their righteousness in public hoping to be noticed, including praying with great spectacle. Jesus addressed that specific issue in our key verse, “But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you” (Matthew 6:6).

Jesus wasn’t saying don’t ever pray out loud; He was giving us the key to break our desperate need for approval. According to Jesus, we receive God’s approval in the secret places, when no one else knows what we’ve done.

As I looked back over that time when my feelings were hurt consistently, I realized I hadn’t spent much time in secret places with God. I hadn’t sought His approval.

I managed to read a few Bible verses before bed and whisper a few prayers during the day. But the truth was I’d neglected time with my Heavenly Father. I’d exchanged His whispers of approval for the inconsistent and unfulfilling approval from people.

I needed to get alone with God, quiet the world’s feedback, so I could hear His voice.

And when I did, I realized that one word of approval from God is worth more than a hundred “atta-girl” comments.

The next time disappointment creeps up when I’m overlooked, or I think, “Why not me?”--I’ll see it as a little warning. It’s my reminder to go back to that secret place. To spend time with God alone.

That’s where I’ll get the acceptance my heart really wants.

Heavenly Father, thank You for seeing what I really need and want. The approval of people never satisfies. Help me to see it as a poor substitute for Your approval--which brings me true joy and meaning. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

TRUTH FOR TODAY:

Galatians 1:10, “Obviously, I’m not trying to win the approval of people, but of God. If pleasing people were my goal, I would not be Christ’s servant.” (NLT)

1 Corinthians 3:13-14, “Their work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each person’s work. If what has been built survives, the builder will receive a reward.” (NIV)
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Daily Devotion

3/16/2016

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Proverbs 31 Ministries
Alicia Bruxvoort

“Why Dreaming Small Might Be the Secret to Living Your Biggest Dream”

“I have asked one thing from the LORD--it’s all I seek: to live in the LORD’s house all the days of my life, seeing the LORD’s beauty and constantly adoring his temple."
Psalm 27:4 (CEB)

I was curled up with my Bible by the window when I heard the pitter patter of slippered feet. My young son stumbled down the stairs with his blue blankie in one hand and his tattered stuffed dog in the other. I moved the Bible in my lap to the broad arm of the leather chair where I sat, and my littlest boy snuggled up beside me in the morning hush.

Joshua crawled on my lap, and I buried my nose in the soft nest of his tousled hair. I breathed in the subtle scent of little boy--a fragrant mix of yesterday’s backyard dirt and last night’s sleep. And together, we watched the sun’s pink fingers pierce the dark before dawn. We swapped sleepy chatter about school friends and soccer games, recess plans and superheroes.

Then when my son grew quiet, my eyes roamed back to the Bible still lying open beside me. My early bird rested his head on my shoulder, and I read King David’s ancient overture to the metronome of my son’s rhythmic breathing.

“I have asked one thing from the LORD … it’s all I seek:”

“What does it say?” my boy murmured as he pointed to the holy writ marked with a streak of yellow highlighter.

I put voice to the verse I’d just consumed in silence.

“I have asked one thing from the LORD … it’s all I seek:”

“Who wrote that?” Joshua asked.

“King David,” I replied.

“The one who killed the giant?”

“Yep,” I answered.

“The one who fought all those battles and lived in the palace and was a really really important king?” my little guy questioned, his sluggish posture now taut and alert.

“That’s the one,” I nodded, smirking at my son’s growing enthusiasm.

“Oh,” he said with a reverent sigh. “That David must have really loved God.”

“Why do you say that?” I asked.

“Cause he could’ve asked for anything … And all he asked for was more of God.”

My pensive one squirmed in my lap. Then, in a small, apologetic whisper he admitted, “I think I would’ve asked for something else.”

My stomach lurched at my son’s honesty, and I leaned low to tuck my words in his ear. “Me too,” I conceded. “Me, too.”

The morning sun was peaking above the treetops and the clock above the mantle ticked a steady warning that soon the big yellow bus would be chugging up the hill.

But before I climbed the stairs to wake the rest of my children for school, I cuddled my small son and wondered if I’d been dreaming in the wrong direction.

What if the secret to a large life isn’t found in dreaming big, but in dreaming small?

Inarguably, King David accomplished “big things” in his lifetime. He slew a giant, conquered nations and ruled a dynasty. In fact, the reality of this hero’s life probably far surpassed the dreams he’d entertained as a lowly shepherd boy caring for his father’s sheep.

However, if we read between the lines of his story, we see that the king’s colossal quest wasn’t for big fame or glory, but for a small gap between God’s heart and his.

“I have asked one thing from the LORD — it’s all I seek.”

When all was said and done, David’s burning desire was to enjoy the presence of His Lord. His greatest wish wasn’t for gain, but for loss. And when this mighty king chose to lose himself in the Lord, he found the secret to living the life of his dreams; a life large enough to be remembered for generations to come (Matthew 1:6-18).

“Hold me closer,” Joshua murmured as he twined his bony legs around mine. I pulled my son closer to my heart and diminished the space between us.

Then I closed my eyes and asked my Heavenly Father for one small thing.

Dear God, Shrink the gap between Your heart and mine and grow within me a giant love for You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

TRUTH FOR TODAY:

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

Psalm 73:28a “But as for me, how good it is to be near God!” (NLT)
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Daily Devotion

3/15/2016

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Proverbs 31 Ministries
Sheila Walsh

“God Thinks You’re Beautiful”

“Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I entrust my life.”
Psalm 143:8 (NIV)

I looked out of the window as our plane began its descent. The sky was a glorious collage of pink and gold as the sun began to set. I knew a 2‑hour drive awaited me, so it would be dark by the time I got to my hotel.

As I made my way to baggage claim I checked the information sheet I’d been given for the following morning’s event, to remind myself of the names of the couple who were kind enough to pick me up. I’ll call them Jean and Stan. They were waiting by carousel 4 with big smiles and a sign with my name on it.

“It’s so kind of you to do this,” I said.

“Our pleasure,” Stan replied. “We love to drive and we love to make new friends!”

The baggage carousel began to move and I watched for my bag. One by one the other passengers picked up their suitcases until all that was left was a lone sneaker going round and round, forlorn and unclaimed.

I took my baggage tag to the agent and asked her if she could see where my bag had gone.

“I’m afraid it’s still in Dallas,” she said. “We don’t have another flight due in tonight but we can get it to you in the morning.”

I had a problem.

The following morning, I was attending a church conference and all I had were the jeans I had traveled in. I knew the other ladies would have brought their prettiest outfits to wear and I didn’t want to look like I’d just climbed off my horse!

I asked Jean if we would pass a mall on the way to the hotel.

She said no, but we’d pass a large well-known chain store if I wanted to give that a try. I said, “Lets go for it, Jean!”

Well, apparently there had been several school proms, two weddings and a big sale at the store the previous week, so there was nothing left in my size. The only dress I could find was two sizes too big (better than too small) and made for a much taller woman, but I bought it anyway.

The following morning I got up, and before I stepped out of bed I reminded my heart, as I do every morning in life, of my favorite verse to begin the day, “Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I entrust my life” (Psalm 143:8).

I treasure this verse. The psalmist speaks of God’s unfailing love, not ours--for we will fall and we will fail, but God never will.

I showered, put my dress on and surveyed myself in the full-length mirror.

“Well, Lord!” I said out loud. “What do you think?”

What I heard in my spirit was the gentle voice of my Father saying, “Beautiful!”

In that moment every chaotic emotion fell into place as I remembered whose I am and the undeserved privilege of being a child of the King, a partaker in His grace and mercy.

I didn’t hit a fashion home run that day, but I had a deeper sense of the value our Father places on us … on the days we like what we see in the mirror and the days we don’t. It was a gift to have some of the things I normally rely on stripped away to lean on Christ and Him alone.

I don’t know what you see when you look in the mirror.

I don’t know what you depend on to feel okay about yourself.

But I do know this … if every time you catch your reflection you would remind yourself that you are a beloved daughter of the King above all Kings, peace would flood over you like a river … even if your dress is two sizes too big!

Heavenly Father, thank You for thinking I’m beautiful no matter what reflection the mirror tosses back. Help me remember that You don’t see as the world sees, but You see with eyes of love. I want to see myself, and others, with those same eyes. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

TRUTH FOR TODAY:

Romans 5:1-2 “Therefore, since we have been made right in God’s sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us. Because of our faith, Christ has brought us into this place of undeserved privilege where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look forward to sharing God’s glory.” (NLT)
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Daily Devotion

3/11/2016

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Proverbs 31 Ministries
Shelly Faust

“Swing Like No One is Watching”

“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”
Deuteronomy 31:6 (NIV)

Week after week I watch my boy strap on his helmet, grab his bat and walk trembling to the batter’s box. Each time the ball comes, he stands paralyzed, unable to move. Starting Little League baseball as a rookie 10-year-old can be quite intimidating, especially in a small Texas town where most of your teammates have been playing since birth.

But something about this night feels different. I watch him strap on his helmet, grab his bat and walk--still trembling--to the batter’s box. He digs his cleats in a little deeper, grips his bat a little tighter and stares with a determined focus at the pitcher. This time when the ball comes, he sends it flying into the outfield.

This new baseball mama wants to jump over the strategically placed barrier fencing between us and tackle #21 as he slides into third base. But wisdom (and my husband) encourage me to practice restraint. So instead, I yell like a crazy woman from my side of the fence.

What made this night different?

I can’t say for sure, but maybe my boy decided he finally felt ready. Or maybe, as evidenced by his still trembling knees, he felt afraid but decided to push through the fear that kept him paralyzed all season, frozen in the ready position. Maybe he decided to swing the bat like he did every evening at home in the absence of his peers and opponents.

Maybe he decided to swing like no one was watching.

The truth is, my boy isn’t the only one who has stayed frozen in the ready position by fear and intimidation. I have too often given in to this enemy who wars against purpose and potential. I have sometimes walked to first base but rarely have I risked it all at the chance to get in the game and bring my teammates home.

Maybe you can relate. You’ve trained, prepared and spent intimate moments with Jesus about this thing you’ve been called to do, but your arms and feet just won’t move. It feels too big, too risky.

Like trusting God with your marriage.

Leading a Bible study.

Sharing Jesus with your neighbor.

Or writing a book.

The Words from our own Coach, God Almighty, challenge us to “be strong and courageous.” They command us to “not be terrified or afraid,” and remind us “the LORD your God goes with you.”

Whatever the assignment before us, no matter the opposition against us, God is always with us. And the opposing team is put on notice when we choose to act even when our knees tremble.

Two innings later as my boy steps up to bat, we hear a voice from the outfield nervously yell, “Big hitter!” and the whole team takes a step back.

The enemy goes scrambling when we choose courage over fear.

When we believe God will do what He says He’ll do, we can do what we’ve been called to do.

When we swing the bat like no one is watching, preparation and purpose explode in God’s power.

Dear Lord, Thank You for creating me with purpose and empowering me to do the things You’ve called me to do. When fear tries to intimidate me and my knees start to tremble, remind me that You are with me. Let courage and strength be my companions. Help me push past every obstacle preventing me from playing my part in Kingdom-building here on earth. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

TRUTH FOR TODAY:

Isaiah 41:10 “Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.” (NLT)

Joshua 1:9 “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not be terrified or dismayed (intimidated), for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” (AMP)
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Daily Devotion

3/10/2016

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"In Pursuit of Peace"

Have you ever been in the middle of a perfect moment? Maybe you've sat around the table after a great meal, enjoying the warmth of your family. Maybe you've sat in rays of sunshine, watching your kids play outside under a blue sky. Have you ever reached that beautiful place of contentment, your heart utterly satisfied, and then all of a sudden an unsettling thought drops into your head and disrupts everything? You remember your finances, the pressure from your job, or maybe that fight you had with your spouse the other night. Just when you thought you could have a moment of peace, it seems to flee as swiftly as it came. 

Paul gives us a bit of instruction regarding peace in Colossians 3:15 (NIV): "And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful." We are called to let the peace of Christ rule. That means whatever is true for you, whatever circumstances might be your reality, the greater reality is the peace you are called to in Christ. Let the peace of Christ rule.

The Easter season is coming up. Beyond all the gift baskets, egg hunts, and family gatherings, we get to celebrate the most beautiful gift ever given. Jesus loved us so much, He laid His life down on our behalf. As you walk into church or spend time with family or friends this Easter, give yourself a moment to rest in the fact that Jesus died to give us eternal life. He paid for us to live free of fear, to come close, to be in relationship with Him and to have peace. Reflect on what He’s done, lift up a thankful prayer, or connect your heart with His in some way because when He made that sacrifice, He had you in mind. No matter the busyness of this new season, His peace is not out of reach.

So how do we let the peace of Christ rule? 

1. Pray. It seems simple, but sometimes we forget it's an option. It's always a good idea to hand problems over to God. After all, He makes sure the earth rotates on its axis at the perfect speed and holds stars in the galaxies across the sky. In addition to all that, He invites us to hand over our problems. Philippians 4:6 says, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." What is the qualifier for talking to God about a problem? Does it have to be something really big? Nope, it says every situation. If it makes you anxious, you can give it to God.  

2. Find out what God thinks. Ask God what He thinks about your situation. Dig into your Bible and see what He says. Chances are, your problem is not something that's unexpected or unfamiliar to Him. If you dig deep enough in the Word, you might even find a story similar to yours. Dysfunctional family dynamics, leaders with bad tempers, and lack of finances are all situations people faced in the Bible. When you ask God to show you what He thinks, He has a way of putting things into perspective. 

3. If it's not peace, kick it out. If a thought comes into your head that's not peaceful, you have permission to kick it out. In 2 Corinthians 10:5, it says, "we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ." You have the privilege of choosing what kind of thoughts fill your mind. They can be full of peace or full of fear. Hopeful or discouraging. Go back to the truth found in His Word, and replace your uneasy thoughts with His peace. 

4. Go after peace in your relationships. What's more important? The words you're trying to get across or the person you're talking to? When peace rules in your relationships, it takes priority over being right. This can be a tough one during the family get-togethers when that same family member brings up that same argument about that same thing you've talked about five hundred times. You might have to lay down your arguments, for the sake of protecting your relationship with the person you're talking to. Listen, love, and seek to understand the people around you. God will bring people into your life that listen, love, and understand you. 

5. Be thankful. Because Paul went on to say this after instructing us to let peace rule in our hearts, it's probably a good idea to practice. Giving thanks is another tool to put things in perspective for us. If you focus your mind on all you have instead of all you lack, you'll start feeling more content with your life. Also, the very things involved in your anxiety, like family, finances, or your spouse, are probably also the things you're thankful for. Take a minute to switch from worrying about these things to letting yourself feel how thankful you are for them. 

Whatever it might be that brings you anxiety, the truth is, there is no area of your life the peace of Christ cannot rule over. The One who spoke peace to the waves can calm any storm inside of you. It's not always an easy thing to let go and give things to Him, but it's always a good thing. If you find yourself losing perspective, with problems appearing as insurmountable mountains in your path, remember that the God who conquered death is on your side. Remember that nothing will ever separate you from Him. When you make Jesus Lord of your life, your sins are forgiven and can't be held against you any longer because of what Jesus did. Instead of death, we've been given eternal life. Let the depth of that truth settle and bring rest to your heart this Easter season and in all the seasons to come.

by Andrea @ DaySpring
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Daily Devotion

3/9/2016

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Proverbs 31 Ministries
Chrystal Evans Hurst

“When You’re Not Ready for the Season of Life You’re In”

“Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God.”
Ruth 1:16b (NIV)

It’s official … I’m the mother of the mother of a child. Just call me the #MMC.

I hope you understood what I’m trying to say because I can’t bring myself to say the “G” word yet.

My daughter and her husband graced us with their daughter the day before Christmas. Yes, our new little princess is beautiful. Yes, I feel all of the love in the world for her. Yes, her birth was wonderful and beautifully surreal.

But her birth means a change in seasons for me. And I’m not ready.

But it doesn’t matter because she’s here, and I’m officially a gr … Mother of a mother of a child.

Seasons change, don’t they? Life shifts.

One day you can describe yourself and your life one way, and the next day that description can totally change.

Sometimes those shifts are welcomed and celebrated. Other times those shifts are regarded with a bit of anxiety. Life is always changing.

Maybe the changes you’ve recently experienced or anticipate in the near future have you so excited you can’t stand it. Or maybe those changes are making you so nervous that you shake a little in your boots every time you think about them.

Either way, life has seasons--some of which we are ready for and some we simply don’t think befitting or suitable for who we think we are or what we think our life should look like.

I don’t think Ruth expected her season of widowhood.

A young girl gets married expecting to be happy, to have a family, to live together for a long time. Instead, as we read in Ruth 1:3‑5, Ruth faced a childless, widowed and destitute existence after her husband passed away.

There was no one to ensure financial security, nuclear community or generational progeny. Her future was not what she expected, and her identity shifted as a result.

Maybe your season in life has shifted unexpectedly.

Young wife. Now widowed.
Working. Now unemployed.
Healthy. Now ill.
Married. Now divorced.
Calm. Now stressed.
Comfortable. Now stretched.

Not all shifts in seasons are negative. Some simply push us into places that require a major adjustment in our hearts, mind or will.

Employed. Now the promotion is more than you bargained for.

Childless. Now motherhood is the hardest thing you’ve ever done.

Single. Now marriage is not as straightforward or simple as you thought it would be.

Content. Now God has led you to a place where dependence on Him means discomfort or uncertainty and forces you to grow in your faith.

Unbeliever. Now you know Jesus Christ, but reading the Bible is like reading a foreign language and you’re frustrated trying to figure out this Christian thing.

The book of Ruth is the story of girl who trusted God with the unforeseen, the unanticipated and the surprising. She teaches us that by embracing the changing seasons of life and the circumstances that God allows, we can come to see God in a new light as we walk through new situations.

Yet as we see in today’s key verse, Ruth tackled her new season head on. Even though her shift in season was unexpected, life-changing and unsettling, she embraced it.

She moved fully into the season of life God allowed, trusting that in the end it was God who was her Sustainer and Provider. She trusted Him with her identity, her station in life and the direction of her story. And in trusting Him she learned that new seasons, even the unexpected ones, can lead to the most beautiful places.

What does it mean to be a gr … grandmother?

I have no idea.

But I do know that Ruth’s decision to walk with bravery and boldness into a new season paved her way to be the grandmother of King David and ultimately in the lineage of Jesus Christ.

Even though I probably will forever consider myself to be 27, I think embracing this new life-changing, redefining season of my life will allow me to see what God looks like as I walk fully in this place. And I might even be surprised by the impact He allows me to make in His power.

What does it mean for you to be widowed or a wife, unemployed or promoted, divorced or in a blended family, financially strapped or financially responsible, a new Christian or a seasoned saint?

I don’t know.

But I do know we should walk boldly into the seasons that God allows, trusting that He will show us how to maximize each moment we have there.

Dear God, I don’t know how to handle the season I’m in. Please show me how You would have me to operate in this place and give me strength to move forward in a way that brings You glory. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

TRUTH FOR TODAY:

Proverbs 31:25 “She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.” (NIV)

Psalm 33:11 “The counsel of the LORD stands forever, The plans of His heart from generation to generation.” (NASB)
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