Friday, May 27, 2011
Friday, May 27, 2011 - Lonely
5:30 prayer
5:55-7:00 a.m. P90x Legs and Back
Thanks Tanya Banks for working out with me ALL Week..You Rock
9:30 a.m. Devotion
Friday, May 27, 2011 Send to a Friend More Free Newsletters
May 27, 2011
Lonely
Amy Carroll
"Turn to me and show me your favor, I am lonely and hurting." Psalm 25:16 (NIRV)
Lonely. It's not a word I thought I'd ever use to describe myself, but that's just where I was.
For many years after a hard move, I felt alone.
I had always had close friends, and the absence of intimate friendship left me feeling sore-hearted. I longed to have someone who could meet me for coffee spontaneously or help me expend some of my many daily words on the phone. I craved a woman who "got me" and would both listen and share.
Over time, I learned a lot about re-establishing friendships, and most days I feel connected and content. Recently, though, I read an editorial published in USA Today that included information from a fascinating but sad study. This study published by the American Sociological Review cited statistics that showed half of Americans only have two close friends. Even more heartbreaking is that one out of four Americans say that they don't have any close friends.
Not a single one. That's a lot of lonely souls and hurting hearts.
So, how can we be part of solving this epidemic problem?
If you're lonely...
Here's the advice that I gave myself over and over during my lonely days, because I believed they were true. When you don't have a friend, BE the friend to others that you would like to have.
There were things I told myself over and over during my hard time. "Amy," I'd say...
• "Would you love a friend who takes time to show that she cares by picking up the phone and asking about your day? Then pick up the phone and ask about someone's day."
• "Would you love a friend who keeps confidences and is trustworthy? Then be trustworthy."
• "Would you love a friend who asks you to go shopping (or to the movies, or for a walk...) at the spur of the moment? Then ask someone to go along when you go do those things."
It's easier to stay isolated sometimes than to reach out, especially if you've been hurt or disappointed many times. I know too well. But I want to encourage you to reach out, show love and care about others.
God taught me so many things during my loneliness. I learned to be more dependent on Him. I learned to appreciate the friendship of my family more. I took a hard look at some things that weren't so wonderful about myself and really worked to change those things.
During lonely times of life, be intentional about connecting to God and others. There's so much to be learned in these times.
If you're not lonely...
Remember today that many people are lonely. Remember one in four women would say she doesn't have a single close friend. Think about it in terms of your neighborhood. If there are 40 women who live near you, 10 of them believe that they don't have a friend in the world. Could God be calling you to be that friend?
Look for ways to open your circle of friends to new people. Watch for that new woman at church sitting by herself, the woman at work who eats lunch alone, or the neighbor who never seems to be invited. Reach out to someone new today, and be part of one less life feeling lonely today.
Dear Lord, You are the friend who is closer than a brother. In this time of loneliness and seeming friendlessness, show me how precious friendship with You can be. Please teach me everything that I need to learn in this phase of life. Would you also prepare a friend for me and prepare me to be a trusted, valued friend? In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Application Steps:
If you are lonely, take a step to be around people with whom you have things in common. Sign up for a class, join a book club or attend a women's small group at your church.
If you have a close circle of friends, plan a Silver and Gold get together. (Remember the old Girl Scout song? "Make new friends but keep the old. One is silver and the other gold!")
Reflections:
Is God truly my best friend? Have I let Him be enough for me? What could He teach me about friendship with Him through loneliness?
When is the last time I included someone new into my circle of friends?
Power Verses:
Proverbs 17:17, "A friend loves at all times. He is there to help when trouble comes." (NIRV)
Ecclesiastes 4:10, "Suppose someone falls down. Then his friend can help him up. But suppose the man who falls down doesn't have anyone to help him up. Then feel sorry for him!" (NIRV)
5:55-7:00 a.m. P90x Legs and Back
Thanks Tanya Banks for working out with me ALL Week..You Rock
9:30 a.m. Devotion
Friday, May 27, 2011 Send to a Friend More Free Newsletters
May 27, 2011
Lonely
Amy Carroll
"Turn to me and show me your favor, I am lonely and hurting." Psalm 25:16 (NIRV)
Lonely. It's not a word I thought I'd ever use to describe myself, but that's just where I was.
For many years after a hard move, I felt alone.
I had always had close friends, and the absence of intimate friendship left me feeling sore-hearted. I longed to have someone who could meet me for coffee spontaneously or help me expend some of my many daily words on the phone. I craved a woman who "got me" and would both listen and share.
Over time, I learned a lot about re-establishing friendships, and most days I feel connected and content. Recently, though, I read an editorial published in USA Today that included information from a fascinating but sad study. This study published by the American Sociological Review cited statistics that showed half of Americans only have two close friends. Even more heartbreaking is that one out of four Americans say that they don't have any close friends.
Not a single one. That's a lot of lonely souls and hurting hearts.
So, how can we be part of solving this epidemic problem?
If you're lonely...
Here's the advice that I gave myself over and over during my lonely days, because I believed they were true. When you don't have a friend, BE the friend to others that you would like to have.
There were things I told myself over and over during my hard time. "Amy," I'd say...
• "Would you love a friend who takes time to show that she cares by picking up the phone and asking about your day? Then pick up the phone and ask about someone's day."
• "Would you love a friend who keeps confidences and is trustworthy? Then be trustworthy."
• "Would you love a friend who asks you to go shopping (or to the movies, or for a walk...) at the spur of the moment? Then ask someone to go along when you go do those things."
It's easier to stay isolated sometimes than to reach out, especially if you've been hurt or disappointed many times. I know too well. But I want to encourage you to reach out, show love and care about others.
God taught me so many things during my loneliness. I learned to be more dependent on Him. I learned to appreciate the friendship of my family more. I took a hard look at some things that weren't so wonderful about myself and really worked to change those things.
During lonely times of life, be intentional about connecting to God and others. There's so much to be learned in these times.
If you're not lonely...
Remember today that many people are lonely. Remember one in four women would say she doesn't have a single close friend. Think about it in terms of your neighborhood. If there are 40 women who live near you, 10 of them believe that they don't have a friend in the world. Could God be calling you to be that friend?
Look for ways to open your circle of friends to new people. Watch for that new woman at church sitting by herself, the woman at work who eats lunch alone, or the neighbor who never seems to be invited. Reach out to someone new today, and be part of one less life feeling lonely today.
Dear Lord, You are the friend who is closer than a brother. In this time of loneliness and seeming friendlessness, show me how precious friendship with You can be. Please teach me everything that I need to learn in this phase of life. Would you also prepare a friend for me and prepare me to be a trusted, valued friend? In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Application Steps:
If you are lonely, take a step to be around people with whom you have things in common. Sign up for a class, join a book club or attend a women's small group at your church.
If you have a close circle of friends, plan a Silver and Gold get together. (Remember the old Girl Scout song? "Make new friends but keep the old. One is silver and the other gold!")
Reflections:
Is God truly my best friend? Have I let Him be enough for me? What could He teach me about friendship with Him through loneliness?
When is the last time I included someone new into my circle of friends?
Power Verses:
Proverbs 17:17, "A friend loves at all times. He is there to help when trouble comes." (NIRV)
Ecclesiastes 4:10, "Suppose someone falls down. Then his friend can help him up. But suppose the man who falls down doesn't have anyone to help him up. Then feel sorry for him!" (NIRV)
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Thursday, May 26, 2011 - Nothing Taste as Good as Peace Feels! - A must read
5:13 a.m. Prayer
6:00-6:45 P90x Cardiox
7:00 Devotion
Nothing Tastes as Good as Peace Feels
Lysa TerKeurst
http://devotions.proverbs31.org/2011/02/nothing-tastes-as-good-as-peace-feels.html
“… seek peace and pursue it.”
Psalm 34:14 (NIV)
Nearly two years ago I set out on what I thought would be a three-month fast from sugar to lose weight. Here I am today and I’m still fasting from sugar. And I can honestly tell you, I never thought this would be possible for me.
As a matter of fact, at the beginning I mourned over giving up sugar for three months. Big, crocodile tears dripped from my eyeballs on many a day during the early part of this journey. We’re talking the ugly cry. I was breaking up with a lifetime love affair with sugar. And, excuse the pun, it’s really hard to break up with something when it is really sweet.
However, in all honesty, sugar wasn’t being sweet to me. It was sweet to my taste buds, but it was not sweet when it made my energy level skyrocket and then crash. It was not sweet to my attitude which went south every time I hit a sugar low. It was not sweet to my complexion nor to the ever increasing size of my backside.
Most of all it was not sweet to the battle that raged in my brain.
Before my sugar fast, I was constantly bouncing between feeling deprived and guilty. All. The. Time. I was either feeling deprived because I was trying to watch what I ate or feeling guilty because I’d slipped back into the ‘eat whatever I want’ phase. Deprived. Guilty. Deprived. Guilty. I couldn’t stop this incessant bouncing until I stopped the sugar.
I realized after fasting from sugar for a month, my cravings started to release their awful grip on me. The sting of sacrifice started to not sting quite as much. Slowly, I made the choice to change one fundamental thought.
In my new book, “Made to Crave,” I reveal the switch that changed everything. I switched from feeling deprived to feeling empowered.
Don’t read over that too quickly.
I can now look at my kid-friendly pantry laden with treats galore and not sigh. I can walk by the bakery counter at Starbucks and say “no thank you.” I can go to a party without being riddled with “pitiful me” thoughts about how unfair it is that everyone else is living it up sugar style.
Instead of being sad that I can’t have something, I feel so thrilled to be courageous enough to say no. Shifting from feeling deprived to empowered is the most crucial change I’ve made on this journey. And it’s what made me decide to keep going past the three month mark.
So, am I still fasting from sugar to lose weight? No. I lost my excess weight and reached a healthy place a year ago. Now my goals have nothing to do with a number on the scale. My goal now is peace.
Peace.
And I can assure you, no treat in this world tastes as good as this peace feels.
Dear Lord, help me to see how the temporary sting of sacrifice will be worth the peace I will find in You. Please help me to have the courage to say no to things that distract me mentally, spiritually, and physically. I long to be empowered with Your strength and Your peace today. I admit I need You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Related Resources:
If you have been stuck in a rut with your healthy eating attempts, there are 3 crucial things scientists have discovered that you must know- click here to visit Lysa’s blog today and be empowered to change!
Sign up for a FREE webcast with Lysa based on her new book: Made to Crave. For more information, click here.
If this devotion resonated with you, don’t miss Lysa’s new book: Made to Crave.
Also, you’ll want to consider the 6-week Bible study using these additional resources: Made to Crave DVD and the accompanying Made to Crave Participant’s Guide by Lysa TerKeurst
Visit Lysa’s new website at www.MadetoCrave.org for additional information on this project as well as fun freebies and encouraging videos to help you overcome struggles to find lasting peace.
6:00-6:45 P90x Cardiox
7:00 Devotion
Nothing Tastes as Good as Peace Feels
Lysa TerKeurst
http://devotions.proverbs31.org/2011/02/nothing-tastes-as-good-as-peace-feels.html
“… seek peace and pursue it.”
Psalm 34:14 (NIV)
Nearly two years ago I set out on what I thought would be a three-month fast from sugar to lose weight. Here I am today and I’m still fasting from sugar. And I can honestly tell you, I never thought this would be possible for me.
As a matter of fact, at the beginning I mourned over giving up sugar for three months. Big, crocodile tears dripped from my eyeballs on many a day during the early part of this journey. We’re talking the ugly cry. I was breaking up with a lifetime love affair with sugar. And, excuse the pun, it’s really hard to break up with something when it is really sweet.
However, in all honesty, sugar wasn’t being sweet to me. It was sweet to my taste buds, but it was not sweet when it made my energy level skyrocket and then crash. It was not sweet to my attitude which went south every time I hit a sugar low. It was not sweet to my complexion nor to the ever increasing size of my backside.
Most of all it was not sweet to the battle that raged in my brain.
Before my sugar fast, I was constantly bouncing between feeling deprived and guilty. All. The. Time. I was either feeling deprived because I was trying to watch what I ate or feeling guilty because I’d slipped back into the ‘eat whatever I want’ phase. Deprived. Guilty. Deprived. Guilty. I couldn’t stop this incessant bouncing until I stopped the sugar.
I realized after fasting from sugar for a month, my cravings started to release their awful grip on me. The sting of sacrifice started to not sting quite as much. Slowly, I made the choice to change one fundamental thought.
In my new book, “Made to Crave,” I reveal the switch that changed everything. I switched from feeling deprived to feeling empowered.
Don’t read over that too quickly.
I can now look at my kid-friendly pantry laden with treats galore and not sigh. I can walk by the bakery counter at Starbucks and say “no thank you.” I can go to a party without being riddled with “pitiful me” thoughts about how unfair it is that everyone else is living it up sugar style.
Instead of being sad that I can’t have something, I feel so thrilled to be courageous enough to say no. Shifting from feeling deprived to empowered is the most crucial change I’ve made on this journey. And it’s what made me decide to keep going past the three month mark.
So, am I still fasting from sugar to lose weight? No. I lost my excess weight and reached a healthy place a year ago. Now my goals have nothing to do with a number on the scale. My goal now is peace.
Peace.
And I can assure you, no treat in this world tastes as good as this peace feels.
Dear Lord, help me to see how the temporary sting of sacrifice will be worth the peace I will find in You. Please help me to have the courage to say no to things that distract me mentally, spiritually, and physically. I long to be empowered with Your strength and Your peace today. I admit I need You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Related Resources:
If you have been stuck in a rut with your healthy eating attempts, there are 3 crucial things scientists have discovered that you must know- click here to visit Lysa’s blog today and be empowered to change!
Sign up for a FREE webcast with Lysa based on her new book: Made to Crave. For more information, click here.
If this devotion resonated with you, don’t miss Lysa’s new book: Made to Crave.
Also, you’ll want to consider the 6-week Bible study using these additional resources: Made to Crave DVD and the accompanying Made to Crave Participant’s Guide by Lysa TerKeurst
Visit Lysa’s new website at www.MadetoCrave.org for additional information on this project as well as fun freebies and encouraging videos to help you overcome struggles to find lasting peace.
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Wednesday, May 25, 2011 - Do you need to try something different?
5:15 a.m. Prayer
6:00 a.m. -6:46 P90x Chest Bicep Triceps
7:00 a.m. Devotion
"He said, 'Throw your net on the right side of the boat and you will find some.' When they did, they were unable to haul the net in because of the large number of fish." John 21:6 (NIV)
Have you ever done the same thing over and over with no success? I have. Whether it was trying to make our money work without a budget or trying to make our marriage work without following a biblical model, I tried to do things the same way over and over, hoping for success just one of those times. I came up empty every time.
But then God got my attention, showing me other things to try—a different way than what I'd been doing on my own. God's way worked much better.
In today's verse Jesus suggests that the disciples—who hadn't caught any fish—put their net on the other side of the boat. When I read this my mind flickered back to the times in my life when I'd been completely unsuccessful in what I was doing—and how I had to throw my net to the other side of the boat before I could bring in a catch. When I did, my net was full.
I can still remember feeling the elation that came with seeing my "catch." Those full nets that came from listening to and obeying Him are a visual of living life "to the full" like Jesus spoke of in John 10:10.
Perhaps you too are in a place of trying the same thing over and over but it never works. Your net comes up empty. You struggle with feeling like your debt will never get any smaller. Or you can't seem to grow your savings account. That promotion feels out of reach. Maybe your relationships just never seem to improve. And that stupid scale won't budge no matter what you do.
Whatever the situation you find yourself in, you are struggling with that nagging feeling that something needs to change. Maybe it's time to try the other side.
When the disciples came up empty, Jesus urged them to try something different. He showed them that they didn't have to keep doing things the way they always had. And He gave them specific direction as to how to achieve the success He had in mind for them.
He wants to fill your net, but perhaps He wants you to take a bigger risk, reach outside of your comfort zone, and trust His ability instead of your own. Most of all He wants you to seek out His voice, listening hard for His direction as to where your nets need to go, trusting that wherever He tells you to put them, His direction is perfect. Try the other side. Abundance is waiting there.
Dear Lord, You know what's not working in my life. You know where my net needs to go. Help me to see it and to trust fully in You as I throw my net to the other side. Please make Your directions clear to me as I listen for Your voice. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Related Resources:
Do You Know Him?
She Makes It Look Easy by Marybeth Whalen. A novel for every woman who has looked at another woman's life and said, "I want what she has," She Makes It Look Easy reminds us of the danger of pedestals and the beauty of authentic friendship.
Living Financially Free: Hard Earned Wisdom for Saving Your Money and Your Marriage by Marybeth and Curt Whalen
Visit Marybeth's blog where she's sharing a Psalm for moms and more encouragement for your day.
Spend some time journaling about your situation and what's not working about it. If there's something God's been whispering to your heart that you've been resisting, investigate that further through prayer and listening to Him.
Reflections:
Why do I think I keep doing things that don't work? Why am I resistant to throw my nets to the other side? What's keeping me from trying something new?
Power Verses:
Luke 5:5, "Simon answered, 'Master, we've worked hard all night and haven't caught anything. But because you say so, I will let down the nets." (NIV)
Isaiah 43:19, "See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland." (NIV)
6:00 a.m. -6:46 P90x Chest Bicep Triceps
7:00 a.m. Devotion
 | May 25, 2011 Try the Other Side Marybeth Whalen |
Have you ever done the same thing over and over with no success? I have. Whether it was trying to make our money work without a budget or trying to make our marriage work without following a biblical model, I tried to do things the same way over and over, hoping for success just one of those times. I came up empty every time.
But then God got my attention, showing me other things to try—a different way than what I'd been doing on my own. God's way worked much better.
In today's verse Jesus suggests that the disciples—who hadn't caught any fish—put their net on the other side of the boat. When I read this my mind flickered back to the times in my life when I'd been completely unsuccessful in what I was doing—and how I had to throw my net to the other side of the boat before I could bring in a catch. When I did, my net was full.
I can still remember feeling the elation that came with seeing my "catch." Those full nets that came from listening to and obeying Him are a visual of living life "to the full" like Jesus spoke of in John 10:10.
Perhaps you too are in a place of trying the same thing over and over but it never works. Your net comes up empty. You struggle with feeling like your debt will never get any smaller. Or you can't seem to grow your savings account. That promotion feels out of reach. Maybe your relationships just never seem to improve. And that stupid scale won't budge no matter what you do.
Whatever the situation you find yourself in, you are struggling with that nagging feeling that something needs to change. Maybe it's time to try the other side.
When the disciples came up empty, Jesus urged them to try something different. He showed them that they didn't have to keep doing things the way they always had. And He gave them specific direction as to how to achieve the success He had in mind for them.
He wants to fill your net, but perhaps He wants you to take a bigger risk, reach outside of your comfort zone, and trust His ability instead of your own. Most of all He wants you to seek out His voice, listening hard for His direction as to where your nets need to go, trusting that wherever He tells you to put them, His direction is perfect. Try the other side. Abundance is waiting there.
Dear Lord, You know what's not working in my life. You know where my net needs to go. Help me to see it and to trust fully in You as I throw my net to the other side. Please make Your directions clear to me as I listen for Your voice. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Related Resources:
Do You Know Him?
She Makes It Look Easy by Marybeth Whalen. A novel for every woman who has looked at another woman's life and said, "I want what she has," She Makes It Look Easy reminds us of the danger of pedestals and the beauty of authentic friendship.
Living Financially Free: Hard Earned Wisdom for Saving Your Money and Your Marriage by Marybeth and Curt Whalen
Visit Marybeth's blog where she's sharing a Psalm for moms and more encouragement for your day.
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:Spend some time journaling about your situation and what's not working about it. If there's something God's been whispering to your heart that you've been resisting, investigate that further through prayer and listening to Him.
Reflections:
Why do I think I keep doing things that don't work? Why am I resistant to throw my nets to the other side? What's keeping me from trying something new?
Power Verses:
Luke 5:5, "Simon answered, 'Master, we've worked hard all night and haven't caught anything. But because you say so, I will let down the nets." (NIV)
Isaiah 43:19, "See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland." (NIV)
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Monday, May 23, 2011 - Divine Delays
5:13 a.m. Prayer
5:20 a.m. Meditation
5:45 a.m P90x
"The LORD is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth. He fulfills the desires of those who fear him; he hears their cry and saves them." Psalm 145:18-19 (NIV)
My schedule was tight and I was out of make-up, so I planned to pick up my favorite foundation at the local mall, leaving room to still arrive on time for my friend's annual Christmas tea. As I prepared to leave, the Lord whispered to my heart, Don't go to the mall; go to the make-up store near your home.
But Lord, I argued, I have my friend's Christmas tea and the mall is on the way. What You're asking me to do isn't convenient. I will have to go out of my way and I will be late for the tea. And You know how important punctuality is to me!
After more arguing, I reluctantly obeyed and went into the corner make-up store.
I knew the young woman working. She's not only pleasant, but quick and efficient with her customers. Lord, maybe this inconvenience won't interrupt my schedule too much after all.As I entered the store, the familiar woman greeted me and offered to help with my purchase. I told her what I needed and added that I was in quite a hurry to be on time for my Christmas tea.
Quickly and efficiently she found the needed product and walked me to the register to check out.
This was easier than I thought, I said to myself as she handed me my purchase. Then it happened... the reason I had been led to go out of my way.
"I know you're in a hurry, and I will only keep you one more moment." The young woman shared. "I'd like to ask that you pray for me and my struggling marriage as you drive to your Christmas tea. I don't think my marriage can be saved."
In that moment I sensed the Lord, This is why I wanted to interrupt your busy schedule.
I placed my purchase on the counter, held her hands and prayed. As the Lord guided my words, the young woman began to sob, her tears landing softly on my hands. When I said "Amen," she hugged me tightly and whispered, "Of all the people I've asked to pray for me, you're the first one to stop and do so. Thank you. I've been very discouraged, and had thought no one would ever respond to my request. In fact, I had given up all hope that God even heard my cries for help."
I reminded her of today's key verse, "The LORD is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth. He fulfills the desires of those who fear him; he hears their cry and saves them." (Psalm 145:18-19, NIV)
She thanked me for my time, adding that she would begin to dig into God's Word for more strength and encouragement. The store began to fill with customers. There was one more hug and an exchange of phone numbers as I left for the tea. Since that day we have talked and prayed together on several occasions and we plan to continue. Each time she and I talk, it's a reminder that when I listen and obey the Lord's promptings, I experience the joy of His presence in a powerful way.
God's divine delay taught me that being used by the Lord for His glory in the life of others far outweighs arriving on time.
Dear Lord, thank You for loving me enough to use me for Your purposes and glory. Teach me to listen and obey without reservation or hesitation. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Related Resources:
Visit Zoe's blog for more encouragement today.
Desperate Prayers, Divine Answers, a free online article from P31 Woman magazine
His Princess: Prayers to My King by Sheri Rose Shepherd
What to do in the W.A.I.T. message on CD by Wendy Pope who shares how we can find contentment in God's pauses and plans.
Application Steps:
Examine your relationship with the Lord; are you allowing the busyness of life to crowd out His small quiet voice?
Reflections:
Am I listening to and obeying the Lord's promptings in my life?
Do I tend to ignore God's whispers when they might inconvenience me?
Power Verses:
Deuteronomy 31:6, 8, "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. The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged." (NIV)
Luke 12:6-7, "Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? And not one of them is forgotten before God. Why, even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not; you are of more value than many sparrows." (ESV
5:20 a.m. Meditation
5:45 a.m P90x
 | May 23, 2011 Divine Delays Zoe Elmore |
My schedule was tight and I was out of make-up, so I planned to pick up my favorite foundation at the local mall, leaving room to still arrive on time for my friend's annual Christmas tea. As I prepared to leave, the Lord whispered to my heart, Don't go to the mall; go to the make-up store near your home.
But Lord, I argued, I have my friend's Christmas tea and the mall is on the way. What You're asking me to do isn't convenient. I will have to go out of my way and I will be late for the tea. And You know how important punctuality is to me!
After more arguing, I reluctantly obeyed and went into the corner make-up store.
I knew the young woman working. She's not only pleasant, but quick and efficient with her customers. Lord, maybe this inconvenience won't interrupt my schedule too much after all.As I entered the store, the familiar woman greeted me and offered to help with my purchase. I told her what I needed and added that I was in quite a hurry to be on time for my Christmas tea.
Quickly and efficiently she found the needed product and walked me to the register to check out.
This was easier than I thought, I said to myself as she handed me my purchase. Then it happened... the reason I had been led to go out of my way.
"I know you're in a hurry, and I will only keep you one more moment." The young woman shared. "I'd like to ask that you pray for me and my struggling marriage as you drive to your Christmas tea. I don't think my marriage can be saved."
In that moment I sensed the Lord, This is why I wanted to interrupt your busy schedule.
I placed my purchase on the counter, held her hands and prayed. As the Lord guided my words, the young woman began to sob, her tears landing softly on my hands. When I said "Amen," she hugged me tightly and whispered, "Of all the people I've asked to pray for me, you're the first one to stop and do so. Thank you. I've been very discouraged, and had thought no one would ever respond to my request. In fact, I had given up all hope that God even heard my cries for help."
I reminded her of today's key verse, "The LORD is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth. He fulfills the desires of those who fear him; he hears their cry and saves them." (Psalm 145:18-19, NIV)
She thanked me for my time, adding that she would begin to dig into God's Word for more strength and encouragement. The store began to fill with customers. There was one more hug and an exchange of phone numbers as I left for the tea. Since that day we have talked and prayed together on several occasions and we plan to continue. Each time she and I talk, it's a reminder that when I listen and obey the Lord's promptings, I experience the joy of His presence in a powerful way.
God's divine delay taught me that being used by the Lord for His glory in the life of others far outweighs arriving on time.
Dear Lord, thank You for loving me enough to use me for Your purposes and glory. Teach me to listen and obey without reservation or hesitation. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Related Resources:
Visit Zoe's blog for more encouragement today.
Desperate Prayers, Divine Answers, a free online article from P31 Woman magazine
His Princess: Prayers to My King by Sheri Rose Shepherd
What to do in the W.A.I.T. message on CD by Wendy Pope who shares how we can find contentment in God's pauses and plans.
Application Steps:
Examine your relationship with the Lord; are you allowing the busyness of life to crowd out His small quiet voice?
Reflections:
Am I listening to and obeying the Lord's promptings in my life?
Do I tend to ignore God's whispers when they might inconvenience me?
Power Verses:
Deuteronomy 31:6, 8, "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. The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged." (NIV)
Luke 12:6-7, "Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? And not one of them is forgotten before God. Why, even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not; you are of more value than many sparrows." (ESV
Tuesdsay, May 24, 2011 - I Wanted to See God's Faithfulness
5:13 a.m. Prayer
5:30 a.m. Meditation
5:45 a.m. - 6:45 Plyometrics
ay 24, 2011
I Wanted to See God's Faithfulness
Holly Good, Assistant to Lysa TerKeurst
"You hear, O Lord, the desire of the afflicted; you encourage them, and you listen to their cry." Psalm 10:17 (NIV)
My heart pounded. My teeth clenched. My hands gripped the arms of my chair. I was in the midst of watching a stressful soccer game my 15 year old son was playing in on a beautiful weekend afternoon recently.
His team had a history of unpleasant experiences with this aggressive team. Every season, each game with this team inevitably spiraled into intense rough and rude behavior, language that would make your hair stand on end and a sideline of coaches and parents that made the actions on the field seem minimal.
As we drove the hour long commute to the game, I encouraged my son to play clean and to represent God well. He asked me to "keep praying" as he got out of the car and walked toward the field.
I realize it was only a soccer game, but I started to pray and I didn't stop. I prayed for safety. I prayed for good attitudes. I also selfishly prayed that we would finally win a game against this team.
I watched with a grateful heart as my son huddled his teammates together to pray before they embarked on the field.
I begged God, again, to let them win this game. I wanted to see His faithfulness. I wanted my son and his teammates to learn that when you pray and seek God, you will win.
But winning isn't always the way God chooses to show His faithfulness. What a lesson for my son — what a lesson for me.
The game began, and as expected, the players got increasingly aggressive and the intimidating tactics started to build.
"Please show your faithfulness God," I prayed.
The shoving ensued, the language flew and the opposing coaches screamed beyond reason. I wanted to leave, yet I knew I needed to stay to support my son.
Our team lost a very difficult game that day. They were frustrated and extremely disappointed.
As we drove home, I tried my best to encourage my son, but deep in my heart and mind I found myself wishing God would have stepped in. I wanted God to show His faithfulness on the field that day. I wanted them to win the game. I wanted my son to see that God heard and answered his prayers.
We trust in a God who protects, guides, listens, and always understands the hows and whys behind every intricate detail. I reluctantly admit that after this particular game, it took me quite awhile to recall these truths and in turn relay them to my son.
God shows His faithfulness in ways we do not see. I am often reminded of this when I read Isaiah 55:9, "As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts." I had to remind myself that His answers are not always immediately evident.
His love, strength and power unfold in ways we may never fully comprehend. I desperately wanted God to show Himself faithful on the field that day. But winning isn't the only way He shows His faithfulness.
He heard and answered our prayers, just not necessarily in every way we wanted. No one was injured. Everyone returned home safely.
God was faithful. He surely was.
How might God be showing His faithfulness in your life today?
Dear Lord, thank you for your faithfulness, even during the times I cannot see it. I know you are always there — loving me and protecting me. Please help me to trust in you and your perfect path for me today. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
5:30 a.m. Meditation
5:45 a.m. - 6:45 Plyometrics
ay 24, 2011
I Wanted to See God's Faithfulness
Holly Good, Assistant to Lysa TerKeurst
"You hear, O Lord, the desire of the afflicted; you encourage them, and you listen to their cry." Psalm 10:17 (NIV)
My heart pounded. My teeth clenched. My hands gripped the arms of my chair. I was in the midst of watching a stressful soccer game my 15 year old son was playing in on a beautiful weekend afternoon recently.
His team had a history of unpleasant experiences with this aggressive team. Every season, each game with this team inevitably spiraled into intense rough and rude behavior, language that would make your hair stand on end and a sideline of coaches and parents that made the actions on the field seem minimal.
As we drove the hour long commute to the game, I encouraged my son to play clean and to represent God well. He asked me to "keep praying" as he got out of the car and walked toward the field.
I realize it was only a soccer game, but I started to pray and I didn't stop. I prayed for safety. I prayed for good attitudes. I also selfishly prayed that we would finally win a game against this team.
I watched with a grateful heart as my son huddled his teammates together to pray before they embarked on the field.
I begged God, again, to let them win this game. I wanted to see His faithfulness. I wanted my son and his teammates to learn that when you pray and seek God, you will win.
But winning isn't always the way God chooses to show His faithfulness. What a lesson for my son — what a lesson for me.
The game began, and as expected, the players got increasingly aggressive and the intimidating tactics started to build.
"Please show your faithfulness God," I prayed.
The shoving ensued, the language flew and the opposing coaches screamed beyond reason. I wanted to leave, yet I knew I needed to stay to support my son.
Our team lost a very difficult game that day. They were frustrated and extremely disappointed.
As we drove home, I tried my best to encourage my son, but deep in my heart and mind I found myself wishing God would have stepped in. I wanted God to show His faithfulness on the field that day. I wanted them to win the game. I wanted my son to see that God heard and answered his prayers.
We trust in a God who protects, guides, listens, and always understands the hows and whys behind every intricate detail. I reluctantly admit that after this particular game, it took me quite awhile to recall these truths and in turn relay them to my son.
God shows His faithfulness in ways we do not see. I am often reminded of this when I read Isaiah 55:9, "As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts." I had to remind myself that His answers are not always immediately evident.
His love, strength and power unfold in ways we may never fully comprehend. I desperately wanted God to show Himself faithful on the field that day. But winning isn't the only way He shows His faithfulness.
He heard and answered our prayers, just not necessarily in every way we wanted. No one was injured. Everyone returned home safely.
God was faithful. He surely was.
How might God be showing His faithfulness in your life today?
Dear Lord, thank you for your faithfulness, even during the times I cannot see it. I know you are always there — loving me and protecting me. Please help me to trust in you and your perfect path for me today. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Thursday, May 19, 2011 - Women Judging Women
7:00 a.m. Prayer
7:15 a.m. Devotion
7:30 a.m. P90 Arms
May 19, 2011
Women Judging Women
Lysa TerKeurst
"God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble..." 1 Peter 5:5 (NIV)
How differently might our lives be if we women didn't have to fear the harsh criticisms of other women? Might we be willing to step out a little bolder for Jesus? Might we be willing to be a little more vulnerable? Might we live our lives a little less guarded?
Oh sweet sisters, women judging other women must absolutely break God's heart. The crazy thing is when we judge others, we elevate ourselves past the ability to recognize our own propensity to sin in the very area we are criticizing. Show me a woman who is leveling a judgment against another person, and I will show you a woman who is wrapped in sin herself.
If it's not the very same sin she's criticizing, it will be a sin just as dangerous — pride.
It is a subtle shift that Satan invites us into. Voicing criticisms against others will coat the eyes of our soul with smut so thick, we become blinded to our own sin. Pride and self-righteousness will detour us from God's best path and lead us on a treacherous journey of denial. We'll deny our own sinfulness. We'll deny our own need for grace.
Those who can't see their own desperate need for grace, refuse to freely give grace to others.
Now, if you're like me, you may be tempted to start making a mental list of those who you have felt judged by and you started praying a few sentences back: "Please let so and so read today's devotion. Oh I hope she sees herself in this and gets a whammy of conviction."
But, let's stop making that mental list and receive this message personally. Even if we aren't naturally critical people, this is an area we can all grow in.
I recently read a wonderful quote outlining a beautiful plan when we feel tempted to judge someone else. Francis Frangipane in his book Holiness, Truth, and the Presence of Godsays, "Anyone can pass judgment — but can they lay down their lives in love, intercession and faith for the one judged? Can they target an area of need and rather than criticizing, fast and pray, asking God to supply the very virtue they feel lacking? And then persevere in that love — motivated prayer until that fallen area blooms in godliness? Such is the life Christ commands we follow!" (pg.11)
I know just posting this devotion will not suddenly make the world tip on it's axis and shake all of us women into breaking the cycle of criticisms and judgment. However, maybe, it will be a start. If it causes even one of us to fall in front of Jesus in repentance and allow Him to wipe clean our spiritual eyes — it will be a great start. Now, let me be that one.
Dear Lord, may I first fall in repentance into Your loving arms of grace. Thank You for the harsh ways I have been judged lately for it has made me so aware of how hurtful this can be. Forgive me. I am a woman who desperately needs grace — therefore, I should be a woman who freely offers grace. When I am tempted to be critical of someone else, help me hold my thoughts and my tongue. Instead of voicing those things, help me bring them to You in honest, sincere and heartfelt prayers. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
7:15 a.m. Devotion
7:30 a.m. P90 Arms
May 19, 2011
Women Judging Women
Lysa TerKeurst
"God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble..." 1 Peter 5:5 (NIV)
How differently might our lives be if we women didn't have to fear the harsh criticisms of other women? Might we be willing to step out a little bolder for Jesus? Might we be willing to be a little more vulnerable? Might we live our lives a little less guarded?
Oh sweet sisters, women judging other women must absolutely break God's heart. The crazy thing is when we judge others, we elevate ourselves past the ability to recognize our own propensity to sin in the very area we are criticizing. Show me a woman who is leveling a judgment against another person, and I will show you a woman who is wrapped in sin herself.
If it's not the very same sin she's criticizing, it will be a sin just as dangerous — pride.
It is a subtle shift that Satan invites us into. Voicing criticisms against others will coat the eyes of our soul with smut so thick, we become blinded to our own sin. Pride and self-righteousness will detour us from God's best path and lead us on a treacherous journey of denial. We'll deny our own sinfulness. We'll deny our own need for grace.
Those who can't see their own desperate need for grace, refuse to freely give grace to others.
Now, if you're like me, you may be tempted to start making a mental list of those who you have felt judged by and you started praying a few sentences back: "Please let so and so read today's devotion. Oh I hope she sees herself in this and gets a whammy of conviction."
But, let's stop making that mental list and receive this message personally. Even if we aren't naturally critical people, this is an area we can all grow in.
I recently read a wonderful quote outlining a beautiful plan when we feel tempted to judge someone else. Francis Frangipane in his book Holiness, Truth, and the Presence of Godsays, "Anyone can pass judgment — but can they lay down their lives in love, intercession and faith for the one judged? Can they target an area of need and rather than criticizing, fast and pray, asking God to supply the very virtue they feel lacking? And then persevere in that love — motivated prayer until that fallen area blooms in godliness? Such is the life Christ commands we follow!" (pg.11)
I know just posting this devotion will not suddenly make the world tip on it's axis and shake all of us women into breaking the cycle of criticisms and judgment. However, maybe, it will be a start. If it causes even one of us to fall in front of Jesus in repentance and allow Him to wipe clean our spiritual eyes — it will be a great start. Now, let me be that one.
Dear Lord, may I first fall in repentance into Your loving arms of grace. Thank You for the harsh ways I have been judged lately for it has made me so aware of how hurtful this can be. Forgive me. I am a woman who desperately needs grace — therefore, I should be a woman who freely offers grace. When I am tempted to be critical of someone else, help me hold my thoughts and my tongue. Instead of voicing those things, help me bring them to You in honest, sincere and heartfelt prayers. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
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