Honesty - the Best Policy

"The simple step of a courageous individual is not to take part in the lie. One word of truth outweighs the world." Alexander Solzhenitsyn

Being a honest person is something we must all strive for. I say "strive" because I know how hard it is to stay honest. Or maybe I should say how easy it is to be dishonest. All it take is chaining one word in a sentence when repeating someone's words. Or maybe it is not telling the "whole truth". These are "easy" ways that we become dishonest and our image of "trustworthiness" can slowly fade away.

Will Do

1. Confess your sins to God
2. Believe that you are forgiven by God
3. Be honest with God about your true feelings
4. Respect others by being honest with them
5. Respect yourself by being honest when no one is watching
6. Be generous
7. Trust that God will meet all your needs

To Do

1. Go somewhere for a day or weekend and reexamine yourself
2. Write down 5 areas that need improving on when it comes to honesty in your life
3. Balance your checkbook
4. Answer honestly on your tax returns and other important documents
5. Give honest feedback and compliments to your friends
6. Always pay your fair share on things - maybe a little more at times 
7. Go to someone you wronged and make it right

Bible Verses to Remember

1. James 1:22
2. Luke 6:47
3. 2 Corinthians 4:2
4. Proverbs 16:11
5. Isaiah 58:11
6. Isaiah 33:15-16

"Our lives improve only when we take chances - and the first and most difficult risk we can take is to be honest with ourselves." 

            Walter Anderson

Family

I had every intention to blog yesterday morning. However, God had a different plan. My alarm never went off...or it did and I turned it off not knowing it. What was so strange about it was that I actually needed the sleep! I didn't wake up "late" just not as early as I wanted to. God spoke to 2 dear ones of mine and they both texted me, randomly, in the morning. I never get texts in the morning! I believe it was God waking me up from a much needed sleep!

"A family is a place where principles are hammered and honed on the anvil of everyday living." Swindoll

Today's devotion was about family. I am such a family person! Luckily, my hubby is as well. We both love spending time with family and enjoying their company. The times we spend with them are full of memories and we can't wait to have a family of our own soon. (not too soon - don't jump to conclusions people) *tee-hee*

The bottom line is family is important to us, and family is important to God! There are times when I can't imagine my life changing or falling apart but as I look at everyone around me I see their lives slowly fading. I try not to, but I can't help but thinking, "what if that happens to us?" I'm sure they didn't see this coming either. I'm sure everyone was once in love and full of dreams and never imagined falling apart and now they are divorced. I'm sure that parents don't raise their children thinking they will fall into drugs or depression or whatever. So how do we stay away from this? How do we really protect our families?

Well, I don't know that right answer. I wish I did. I want to save my future family from these heartaches. What I do know is that God can hold people together. He is the glue and the string and the tape...whatever you need - He is it! I think that if God is in the middle of a relationship, a family, that really nothing can come in and screw it up. I think that if God is the core, the middle, the foundation and He is the top priority then everything will be just fine.

Will Do

1. Trust God to provide for and protect family
2. Honor your spouse
3. Enjoy your specific privileges in your family (mother, daughter, husband, son, etc)
4. Cultivate thoughtfulness, tenderness, and empathy
5. Be positive and encoring

To Do

1. Create a family tree
2. Spend an evening going through old pictures of family
3. Do a family project for the community
4. Write your family members letters 
5. Give lots of hugs
6. Plan family vacations

Bible Verses to Remember

1. Genesis 18:19
2. 1 Thessalonians 5:11
3. Proverbs 24:3
4. 1 Timothy 5:4
5. Proverbs 29:15
6. Psalm 115:14
7. Exodus 20:12
8. Proverbs 22:6
9. Colossians 3:21
10. Romans 14:19
11. Psalm 22:30-31
12. Joshua 24:15

"Loving relationships are a family's best protection against the challenges of the world." 

            Bernie Wiebe 

Creative Acts

"Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain and artist once he grows up." Pablo Picasso

Creativity is something that we all have. You may not think that you have this "talent" but you do! God created us to be creative. Now the task at hand is to find out what your creative art is.

So where to start and how do we find it? Well, you can start by these simple guidelines:

• Step into the unknown with courage - don't be afraid to try new things!
• Pay attention - realize when you are interested in something and grasp it
• Trust the process - sometimes is doesn't "feel" of look like art...just keep going and see what happens
• Practice, practice, practice - Practice makes perfect
• Become the student - don't try and "teach" yourself...just learn and be open to learning

I have confidence that we are all creative. I love creating and using my imagination to bring things together. Event planning, decorating, singing, gardening...many things to explore!

Will Do

1. Believe that using creativity is a gift to God
2. Understand that learning comes from success and failure
3. Be open to new ideas
4. Have courage to start something, learn something, and enjoy something new
5. Give credit for trying
6. Approach things with creative passion
7. Let go of expectations and just enjoy

To Do

1. Read Genesis 1
2. Go to a craft store and become inspired
3. Do things from a creativity workbook
4. Visit a museum, art gallery, or theatre
5. Do one small creative act today
6. List 20 things that you enjoy doing - do them!
7. Make a creativity journal

Bible Verses to Remember

1. Romans 12:6
2. Galatians 6:4-5
3. Genesis 1:27
4. Colossians 3:23
5. Psalm 139:16
6. Ephesians 2:10
7. 2 Corinthians 5:17

"To live a creative life, we must lose our fear of being wrong."

            Joseph Chilton Pearce 

Wants and Desires

"Man finds it hard to get what he wants, because he does not want the best; God finds it hard to give, because He would give the best, and man will not take it." George MacDonald

Are we really wanting what is best for us? Are we really thinking it through all the way to the end and seeing the bug picture? God can! Are we being selfish with our hopes, dreams, and desires or are we wanting something that is reachable, achievable?

God know what is best for us. He can see the entire picture and knows what will truly make us happy. Why not really focus on connecting with God - then everything else should fall into place.

Will Do

1. Dare to dream big dreams because we have a big God
2. Be willing to work hard
3. Have patience with delays and problems
4. Commit wholeheartedly to achieving a goal
5. Trust God to guide
6. Trust in God's perfect timing
7. Be thankful for blessings

To Do

1. Write down a cherished goal and break it down into steps to accomplish
2. Do the first item on your list
3. Make a collage that represents your dreams
4. Take a class that will give you a new skill for your dreams
5. Call some friends for a time of encouragement 

Bible Verses to Remember

1. Isaiah 65:24
2. Hebrews 6:19
3. 2 Corinthians 5:1
4. Hebrews 10:35-36
5. Proverbs 13:19
6. Hebrews 10:23
7. Psalm 37:4

"What can be hoped for which is not believed?"

            Saint Augustine 

In Sadness There's God

"Heaven knows we need never be ashamed of our tears, for they are rain upon the blinding dust of earth, overlying our hard hearts." Charles Dickens

There are times in life with sadness creeps in and likes to camp out within us. These are the times when our world is shaken a bit and we become overwhelmed and buried.

Sadness is one of those things we have all experienced. The difference is how we all handle it and coming to the realization that we need help.

I can remember times of great sadness in my life. There were times where all I wanted to do was keep to myself and just shut the world out. This is what a lot of us seem to do, but we need to realize that in times of sadness that is the last thing we should do. We need to lean on others and on God for support. We need to know that we will get through the sadness and the light at the end of the tunnel will only get brighter is we keep moving.

Will Do

1. Remember that God is with us in our sadness
2. Trust that God will comfort
3. Believe God's promises
4. Commit yourself to taking care of your health
5. Rest in God's care
6. Look for the small blessings that continue to surround you

To Do

1. Make some time to get together with a friend for some prayer, comfort, and encouragement
2. List 20 things you are thankful for
3. Memorize Romans 8:28
4. Take a nap when you feel overwhelmed 
5. Make homemade soup for dinner when you are feeling down - it's comforting
6. Make an appointment to speak with a pastor if you need extra help
7. Reread a favorite novel that makes you happy

Bible Verses to Remember

1. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4
2. Psalm 31:7
3. Hebrews 4:16
4. Psalm 119:50
5. Psalm 91:15
6. Psalm 73:26

"The tearful praying Christian, whose distress prevents his words, will be clearly understood by the Most High."

            C. H. Spurgeon

Go On, Laugh

"One filled with joy preaches without preaching." Mother Teresa

Laughter really is the best medicine. Sometimes there are too many terrible things going on at once and all I can do is laugh at it all. It get me through those crazy times.

The Bible reminds us that laughter and joy com from God. When we begin to lose sight that God is the reason for our joy we become sad, depressed, on edge, etc. We start thinking that possessions, other circumstances, and other sources our the reason for our joy and laughter. We start to pull apart from our source. We need to remember that God is the source for joy!

Will Do

1. Remember that God is the source of joy
2. Trust that God Can renew joy, even in the midst of sorrow
3. Wait patiently for joy to be renewed
4. Be expectant
5. Be thankful for every moment
6. Be willing to plant seeds of joy in your own life and the lives of others

To Do

1. Meditate on Sarah's story of joy in Genesis
2. Buy someone a small gift that is unexpected
3. Buy some fresh flowers
4. Make a meal for someone
5. Send a postcard to 5 people
6. Take a long walk or do a vigorous workout - de-stress
7. Write about a time when God did something unexpected in your life that brought joy!

Bible Verse to Remember

1. 2 Corinthians 5:7
2. Psalm 118:24
3. Romans 15:11
4. John 15:11
5. Psalm 51:12
6. Psalm 126:5
7. Luke 1:46-47
8. Philippians 1:18
9. Genesis 21:6

"Christ is not only a remedy for your weariness and trouble, bet he will give you an abundance of the contrary, joy and delight."
            Jonathan Edwards
           

Go Out and Play

"It is the heart that is not yet sure of its God that is afraid to laugh in His presence." George MacDonald

Play! It is a must and really good for the soul. Many adults don't make time for play. They find it unnecessary and unproductive. However, God tells us to be like little children. Do you think He meant only with certain things? I know that children LOVE to play. That's what they live for. So what made us think we could get out of playing? If we are to really be like children, then I'm pretty sure that's an order to play!!!

Find some time to do something you love. Spend it without regret and don't worry about anything else!

Will Do

1. Be open to playful moments
2. Remember that play is an essential
3. Value play as a way to renew body, mind, and spirit
4. Look for ways to move your body in joyous ways
5. Laugh more
6. See God at play in nature
7. Enjoy life with all of my senses
8. Use play to release creativity

To Do

1. Sing a happy song
2. Shop with your best friend
3. Put your favorite music on!
4. Start a new project - or finish an old one
5. Sleep in and have breakfast in bed
6. Take your "other half" on a romantic, playful date
7. Sign up for a class that will get your body moving and having fun

Bible Verses to Remember

1. Psalm 16:11
2. Matthew 11:19
3. Psalm 24:1
4. Matthew 11:25
5. Psalm 34:8
6. Psalm 118:24
7. Psalm 89:15
8. Luke 14:11
9. Proverbs 15:30
10. Galatians 5:1
11. Psalm 68:3
12. John 15:11

"Humor is a prelude to faith and laughter is the beginning of prayer."
            Reinhold Niebuhr

Wisdom

"Accumulated knowledge does not make a wise man. Knowledgeable people are found everywhere, but we are cruelly short of wise people." Michel Quoist

Wisdom...we all think we have it at times, we all lack it most of the time, and we all wish we had it more all of the time!

God promises to grant us His wisdom if we just ask. I know that at times, especially the times we need wisdom, we aren't always remember to stop and seek God's wisdom. So,the solution? Ask for it when you aren't desperate, in the moment. If you begin to ask God for wisdom on a regular basis maybe it will be there when you need it the most!

Will Do

1. Be open to new ideas
2. Seek God's wisdom and guidance
3. Enjoy hearing stories of others' experiences
4. Be thankful for the lessons I have learned from mistakes
5. Realize that failures and problems are opportunities to grow
6. Allow my heart to be childlike
7. Be thankful for all my experiences

To Do

1. Meditate on Proverbs
2. Spend an afternoon with someone older whom I admire
3. Have a conversation with a young girl about how she views God
4. Read a book that offers advice about something I want to learn about
5. Learn something new through a class, travel experience, book
6. Join a woman's Bible study group

Bible Verses to Remember

1. 1 John 4:1
2. 1 Corinthians 1:30
3. Proverbs 9:10
4. Job 32:8
5. Psalm 119:73
6. James 1:5
7. Psalm 25:5
8. James 3:17
9. Psalm 19:7
10. Proverbs 12:15
11. Job 28:17-18
12. 1 Corinthians 3:18

"One of the greatest pieces of economic wisdom is to know what you do not know."
            John Kenneth Galbrath

Health and Fitness

"Half the spiritual difficulties that men and women suffer arise from a morbid state of health."              Henry Ward Beecher

Of course this morning's devotion was about fitness and keeping your body healthy. Of all the things it could have been, I got to read about exercising and staying fit.

I have to stay, I've been pretty lucky in life. My metabolism has made up for all the times I didn't want to exercise and go to the gym. I know that exercise just isn't for the outward appearance, but for the inner being as well. I need a healthy heart, muscles, and other organs need the exercise as well.

So, after reading this morning's devotion I realize that I need to work out. I need to say fit and healthy - not for me, but for God. He made this body, He dwells in it, and He wants me to! So, I am now inspired to create an exercise schedule - and stick to it!

Will Do

1. Remember that my body is a temple of God
2. Be consistent in an exercise program
3. Be aware of my body's needs
4. Enjoy what God gave me
5. Think of my health as a treasure to be guarded
6. Be more in tune with my body's needs

To Do

1. Go to bed early - get enough rest
2. Take a long walk to stretch and renew
3. Buy plenty of fruits and veggies 
4. Do some strength training
5. Make an appointment with a doctor to get a check-up
6. Eat fruit instead of a sugary snack
7. Find a fun exercise program that will be fun and exciting

Bible Verses to Remember

1. Exodus 15:26
2. Proverbs 4:22
3. Proverbs 15:19
4. Psalm 103:2-3
5. Mark 5:34

"Even the best diet combined with the most potent vitamins will never tune up your muscles the way good exercise will."
            Covert Bailey

Pray without Ceasing

"In the morning prayer is the key that opens to us the treasure of God's mercies and blessings; in the evening, it is the key that shuts us up under His protection and safeguard." Henry Ward Beecher

Prayer is such a must in our lives! It is definitely something that we need to have all day, every day.

Last year my hubby and I got to experience one the THE BEST speakers while being youth sponsors on a Mission Trip. His name is Keith Gray. He is truly inspirational and an amazing speaker! In the evenings he would really bring the word of God alive and inspire many to dig deep into their own Bibles and find the amazing stories that he was telling. In the mornings he would do something that I felt was such a blessing. He would teach us how to have a relationship with God. Keith knew how vital it was to have such a deep relationship with God, but also knew that the youth didn't always know how to do that. He would give small tips to the youth, and to us adults as well, and he would give guidelines and pointers. One of the lessons was on prayer. He let us know that prayer was never to cease. He let us know that the morning prayer was more like "Hey God, please stick with me all day". When praying this prayer it didn't end there for the rest of the day. It ended with "okay God, I'll talk to you soon"!

Prayer is something that will get us through our days. Prayer is something that I'm still learning how to do without ceasing. I want to  live each moments remembering that God is there - always!

Will Do

1. Open up your heart to God in prayer
2. Remember that God loves us
3. Have a childlike attitude with God
4. Be honest with yourself and with God
5. Be aware that God is with us all day
6. Worship God with your whole heart
7. Make prayer a priority
8. Know and understand that your whole life can be a prayer

To Do

1. Set aside a time for prayer
2. Worship with other believers at church
3. Join a prayer group
4. Start a prayer journal
5. Buy a daily devotional for mornings and evenings
6. Memorize a Psalm and pray it to God

Bible Verses to Remember

1. Philippians 4:6-7
2. Psalm 55:17
3. Hebrews 4:16
4. Matthew 6:6
5. Acts 16:13-14
6. Psalm 86:6-7
7. Psalm 130:6
8. Isaiah 65:24
9. 1 Thessalonians 5:17
10. Psalm 3:4-5
11. 2 Chronicles 6:19
12. Nehemiah 1:11

"It is possible to offer fervent prayer even while walking in public or strolling alone, or seated in your shop...while buying or selling...or even while cooking."
            John Chrysostom

Meditation - Think on These Things

"Spiritual reading does not mean reading on spiritual subjects, but reading any book that comes to hand in a spiritual way, which is to say, listening to the Spirit, alert to intimations of God." Peterson

This morning I read about meditation and how it is vital to our spiritual health.

It doesn't take much to meditate:

• A good book - maybe the bible
• A walk in nature - or maybe just around the block
• A comfy chair, some inspirational music, and a cup of coffee

There are so many options for a time of meditation. Those were just a few of my favorite.

Will Do

1. Be open to new insight
2. Allow God to speak to the heart 
3. Be still and listen to God
4. Contemplate the meaning in the events of daily life
5. Have a teachable heart and a childlike attitude
6. Leave expectations behind and meditate with an open mind
7. Nurture intimacy with God

To Do

1. Set aside a time for meditation
2. Take your Bible or a book on a walk 
3. Buy a notebook for a meditation journal
4. Create a place in your home for meditation
5. Seek out a spiritual classic book
6. Listen to scriptures on tape in the car
7. Take a short break in your afternoon for a mental refreshment. 

Bible Verses to Remember

1. Joshua 1:8
2. Luke 2:19
3. Psalm 111:4
4. 1 Corinthians 13:9
5. 1 Corinthians 8:7
6. Psalm 4:4
7. Ephesians 4:26

"In the rush and noise of life, as you have intervals, step home within yourselves and be still. Wait upon God, and feel his presence; this will carry you evenly through your day's business."
            William Penn

Money vs. Richness

"If you want to feel rich, just count all the things you have that money can't buy." Author Unknown

Money...can't live without it. It is so hard to understand the love-hate relationship with this green paper.

Money has always seemed to be an issue in my life. The relationship with this smelly, old, wrinkled up stuff has definitely been bitter-sweet. But the truth is we all need it.

When my hubby and I first got married (which wasn't that long ago) we began reading "The Treasure Principle". This was a little book given to us from our home church as a gift for tithing through the years. We were in desperate need to find a devotional book, had not money to buy a new one, and decided to read it! God works in mysterious ways...I knew that He had planned for us to read the little book all along. We gained such a blessing, understanding, and perspective from this little book. It really showed us the relationship we should have with money.

Now, my hubby's in Dental School at Loma Linda University....can I say EXPENSIVE? I also put myself through college with the help of government and private loans. So, to sum it up, we'll be in a lot of debt when we're all done here. But the truth is, God will provide. He will make a way. I can trust that He has a plan and will work on it until it is completed!

Will Do

1. Value integrity about financial gain
2. Trust God in times of need
3. Thank God for the things you have
4. Be willing to seek out help with sorting out finances
5. Be generous and share the gifts God has provided you with
6. Look for opportunities to give to God's work
7. Ask God's guidance in all money matters
8. Know that personal value does not equal dollar value

To Do

1. Make a list of 20 things that you are grateful for
2. Consult a financial advisor, if necessary
3. Open a savings account
4. Give 10% to God
5. Invest in a class that will provide you with new skills
6. Pay off your debts or work up a plan to do so

Bible Verses to Remember

1. 2 Corinthians 9:8
2. Proverbs 31:16
3. Romans 14:7-8
4. Proverbs 11:28
5. 1 John 2:7
6. Matthew 7:20
7. Proverbs 16:16
8. 1 Timothy 6:10
9. James 2:15-16
10. 1 Corinthians 4:1-2
11. 1 Timothy 6:17-19

"A man that depends on the riches of this world is rotten and full of worms." Martin Luther

Valuing Life

"'To believe in God means to take sides with life and to end our alliance with death. It means to stop killing and wanting to kill, and to do battle with apathy which is so akin to killing." Dorothee Soelle

There are so many things that we can be valuing in life. For me there is a long list that I can think of off the top of my head:

• My family
• Friends
• Home
• Food
• Job
• Money to pay the bills

Just to name a few...

It was odd that I read about valuing life today. Just yesterday I found myself putting a lot of things into perspective. It is so easy to get caught up in the mundane things in life and not see the big picture. I found myself putting my life and its events into perspective and it was shocking to me. I make such a big deal about the unnecessary and forget about the essentials. I need to put my life into perspective more often!

Life is something to value. God made it beautiful and has given us so many things to be thankful for!

Will Do

1. Pay attention to life
2. Be receptive and present in the moment
3. See God in all details (just try it)
4. Be curious about life and all its mysteries
5. Open your hear to God's grace
6. Be aware of small moments of grace and little epiphanies (this is what happened to me yesterday)
7. Be aware of what is going on inside

To Do

1. Make time to appreciate life during the day
2. Go for long walks in nature
3. Buy a rose just to admire the beauty that God put in it
4. Read Psalm 148
5. Read a book about nature
6. Spend time apart from a loved one in order to savor and appreciate who they are
7. Treat yourself to a new flavor of ice cream or ethnic food to enjoy the new discoveries

Bible Verses to Remember

1. Genesis 1:31
2. Psalm 139:14
3. Luke 12:27
4. Matthew 8:22
5. 2 Chronicles 5:13
6. Proverbs 28:14

"At the back of our brains, so to speak, there is a forgotten blaze or burst of astonishment at our own existence. The object of the artistic and the spiritual life is to dig for this submerged sunrise of wonder."
            G. K. Chesterton

True Beauty

"Taking joy in life is a woman's best cosmetic." Rosalind Russell

I know we've all heard that "beauty is only skin deep". We've all learned that who we are on the inside will determine our outward appearance.

As we get older, this become even more true. There are a number of people that I truly admire and find beautiful. These people all hold one thing in common - they are genuine and have hearts of gold. So, what do I mean by "hearts of gold"? These people are kind-spirited. They have every one's best interest at heart and they seek to find the joy in life. These people are my mentors. These people are who I strive to become.

To be truly beautiful we must seek the heart of God and understand that the fruits of the spirit are great for the soul and the skin!

Will Do

1. Remember that although appearances are distracting, God sees the heart
2. Live life from the heart
3. Cultivate my your spirit by spending time alone with God
4. Appreciate beauty and creativity
5. Remember that kindness and compassion are great beautifiers
6. Enjoy your femininity - don't take yourself too seriously
7. Be aware of others that may be struggling

To Do

1. Read the story of Esther - I recommend watching the movie "One Night with the King"
2. Speak a kind word instead of gossiping
3. Take an exercise class
4. Read a good book
5. Become a sponsor to some youth that are in need of a mentor
6. Go shopping for clothes that are flattering, comfortable and expressive
7. Leave an extra tip for the women in your day who help you

Bible Verses to Remember

1. 1 Peter 3:3-4
2. Proverbs 31:30
3. Proverbs 14:1
4. Ephesians 5:4
5. Psalm 1:1-2

"Goodness in the heart works its way up into the face and prints its own beauty there."
            Anonymous

You Are Not Alone

"When you have closed your doors and darkened your room, remember never to say that you are alone, for you are not alone; God is within, and your genius is within." Epictetus

It is so easy to feel lonely at times. Even if you are in a crowd of people, or in a classroom of screaming children, there are times when loneliness creep in and your feel abandoned. This is something that is common and everyone has felt this way before.

Today's devotion was about loneliness and the solutions to getting past that awful feeling. First, you must understand that you are never actually alone in your loneliness. God is always there. He is waiting for you to call on Him and spend time with Him! Second, never allow the pain of loneliness to close your heart. Sometimes we are so caught up in our feelings of loneliness that we don't realize the many people around us willing to spend time with us. Don't let the negative feelings push out the possibility of a positive one.

And last but not least - remember that you never have to stay lonely. God is always there and so our the many people around you that are willing to talk when the times get tough!

Will Do

1. Be quiet and listen to God's whispers 
2. Remember that God is always with you
3. Trust that loneliness will pass
4. Choose to have a positive attitude vs. a self-pitying one
5. Be willing to ask for help
6. Be compassionate to others who may be lonely
7. Open up your heart to share greater intimacy with God

To Do

1. Invite someone over for coffee, tea, or dinner
2. Carry a pictures of someone who loves you to remind you when you need to know you are loved
3. Listen to worship music
4. Call a friend or send a card to someone you miss
5. Take a long walk in the sunshine, rain, wind - no matter the weather!
6. Read some scripture aloud
7. Volunteer at church or in the community

Bible Verses to Remember

1. Hebrews 13:5
2. John 14:18
3. Psalm 9:9-10
4. Deuteronomy 31:6
5. Psalm 142:4
6. Matthew 14:23

"The soul hardly  every realizes it, but whether he is a believer or not, his loneliness is really a homesickness for God."
            Hubert van Zeller

Making Choices

"One's philosophy is not best expressed in words; it is expressed in the choices one makes. In the long run, we shape our lives and we shape ourselves." Eleanor Roosevelt

Everyday we make choices that shape our lives a little bit more. Choices as small as what time we will leave for work (on time or early), or big choices like dealing with finances or relationships. All choices make a difference and will affect our lives in some ways.

Luckily, we don't have to make these choices alone! God has created us to be strong and courageous and to trust in Him. He will always be with us - helping us make these choices.

Will Do

1. Make choices that honor God
2. Have a positive attitude
3. Remember that when you have not chosen the situation, you can still choose your response
4. Be thankful for the choices you are able to make
5. Be open to God's guidance
6. Be respectful of others and their choices
7. Be honest about what is truly important

To Do

1. Get a daily planner and use it!!!
2. Write out goals for the week, month, year
3. Set a simple goal and follow through on it
4. Wait 24 hours before making an important decision
5. Read an inspirational biography
6. Write down your accomplishments for the day

Bible Verses to Remember

1. 1 John 3:8
2. Proverbs 11:27
3. Psalm 16:5
4. Psalm 119:30
5. Hebrews 13:6
6. Proverbs 29:25
7. Psalm 27:11
8. Mark 4:40
9. Micah 6:8
10. 1 Corinthians 10:31
11. 2 Timothy 1:6-7, 13-14
12. Matthew 17:7

"Every act is an act of self-sacrifice. When you choose anything, you reject everything else - just as when you marry one [man] you give up all the others."
            G. K. Chesterton

Providence

"Providence is an old-fashioned word with a timeless meaning."

I loved that line in my devotional book this morning! I know that we don't hear the word "providence" very much anymore, but I still think that it is understood and believed in still today!

It wasn't too long ago that I blogged about providence and God's and His angels interacting in our lives. I find it true that God shows up in the most unexpected ways. It can be Him pulling you out of a car, or a card with some money in it when times are tough. However big or small the action might be, I still believe that it is God interacting with His people. He loves us and he can't keep His hands off us! *tee-hee*

"Sometimes providences, like Hebrew letters, must be read backward."
            John Flavel

Faithful Guidance

"I am satisfied that when the Almighty wants me to do or not to do any particular thing, he finds a way of letting me know." Abraham Lincoln

Being led by God is something that I think many people desire. What is hard about that is not always knowing what God wants or what He wants you to do.

Today's devotion was about God's guidance. How we as His children should trust Him and follow in faith. It also touched on how we know it is really God's will and not our own.

This is something that I needed today...I needed to be reminded that God is going before me and He has a plan for me - all I have to do is follow. I will put one foot in front of the other and listen for where I need to go next.

Will Do

1. Seek God's wisdom on a daily basis
2. Trust that I will be guided because it is God's pleasure to lead me
3. Let go of my agendas and allow God to surprise me
4. Be attentive to God's leading through circumstances and the counsel of others
5. Be willing to wait until I feel ready to decide and feel good in my decision
6. Be open to new ideas and new way of doing things
7. Step out in faith, knowing God will direct me on step at a time

To Do

1. Write down all options and weigh your pros and cons
2. Write about how you are feeling in a journal
3. Make an appointment with a counselor when problems seem too big
4. Go to bed early to be clear headed and rested
5. Copy a promise from the Bible and tape it somewhere you'll see it every day
6. Step back from making decisions and take time to relax 

Bible Verses to Remember

1. James 1:5
2. 1 Kings 19:11-12
3. John 16:13
4. Psalm 37:23
5. Proverbs 3:5-7
6. Proverbs 16:9

"Hang this question up in your houses - "What would Jesus do?" and then think of another - "How would Jesus do it?" For what Jesus would do, and how he would do it, may always stand as the best guide to us."
            C. H. Spurgeon

Values vs. Priorities

"The serene silent beauty of a holy life is the most powerful influence in the world, next to the might of the Spirit of God." Blaise Pascal

When I think about the concept of values and morals, I see to squeeze them together with priorities. After reading today's devotion, I realize that it takes morals and values to come up with priorities. Priorities can change over time, but your values are what's concrete and constant. Everything that you do is based on what your values are. If you are a selfish person at heart, then your actions will display this inner-belief.

My parents used to always say, "actions speak louder than words". When I was really young I wasn't sure what that meant. As I grew older, and wiser, I began to understand the meaning of the common phrase but never as much as I get it now! Whatever your heart's desire is, whatever you believe and value, will show in your life. You will never "cheat" out of this one...it's kinda just going to happen and you will start wearing your morals and values on your sleeve.

So what is it that you value most? If you are embarrassed of people knowing what that is then maybe it is time to change it. If it is too embarrassing to "show and tell" then it is probably something that isn't the best thing to be putting at the top of your list.

Remember, whatever you value will determine your actions and the way you live your life. God loves you and wants you to value what is important, pure, safe, honest and He will help you to do just that!

Will Do

1. Listen for God's guidance to help make the right decisions
2. Be honest with yourself
3. Choose things that will reflect your highest values
4. Make wholehearted choices
5. Realize that priorities change, values are the motivation for choices
6. Cultivate loyalty in friendship

To Do

1. Look at current priorities and see if they reflect your values
2. Meditate on Psalm 15
3. Eat fruit instead of a doughnut; go for a walk instead of being a couch potato
4. Balance your checkbook
5. Do a Bible study on character traits
6. Set a goal and make small steps to reach it
7. Spend time with encouraging friends

Bible Verses to Remember

1. Psalm 15:1-2
2. Hebrews 13:16
3. Psalm 25:9
4. Titus 2:7
5. Psalm 78:72
6. Proverbs 28:5

"I'd decided that I would make my life my argument. I would advocate the things I believed in terms of the life I lived and what I did."
            Albert Schweitzer

Inner Strength

"Nothing is so strong as gentleness; nothing so gentle as real strength." Saint Francis De Sales

Strength is something that the women of God truly have. This is not the same strength as being able to lift weights or do a thousand push-ups. This strength comes from within. A type of strength where we can endure things, understand things, use our talents wisely. This is the strength I'm referring to.

Esther showed great strength when she put her life on the line in order to marry the King and ask for her people to be set free.

Mary showed great strength when she risked her life by agreeing to carry the Son of God when she was a single woman. Not only was is strength that it took to risk her life and marriage, but also strength to know that she would be the one to raise Jesus.

There are so many stories of strength from the women of the Bible. There are also many stories of other women of God that we can look too for our own inner strength and hope.

Will Do

1. Understand that true strength comes from God
2. Have strength to be kind, compassionate and faithful
3. Choose to live in God's strength by faith
4. Stand firm in what you believe
5. Work with natural strength to use your talents
6. Remember to be a servant and reflect God's love
7. Remember - when we are weak, God is strong for us

To Do

1. Volunteer to help those in need
2. Take a class to learn something new to enhance strength or talent
3. Enhance your exercise routine with strength training
4. Read a book about the lives of strong women
5. Make a list of your personal strengths and weaknesses
6. Examine your beliefs about femininity and strength 

Bible Verses to Remember 

1. Proverbs 31:17
2. Isaiah 41:10
3. Ephesians 6:10
4. Psalm 37:16-17
5. Philippians 4:13
6. Deuteronomy 33:5
7. Romans 5:4

"Because of an emphasis on strong men, we sometimes overlook the mights women in the Bible, but they are there. These were not quiet retiring ladies who never let their thoughts be known. They did not wait to respond to action: they created the action."
            Barbara Cook

Open Arms

"Hospitality binds the world together." Joan Chittister

When I hear the word "hospitality" I usually think of warm welcomes, hugs, feeling at ease instead of awkwardness, and feeling like you are a part of something when you thought you wouldn't be. I'd like to think that I'm a hospitable person. I love to entertain and have invite people over and make them feel welcome. I also try my very hardest to make sure people feel at ease and comfortable. I tend to worry too much if I think others aren't at ease or having a good time.

On the other hand, maybe I'm not so much a hospitable person. I love doing things for those I'm close with, but I'm forgetting about all the other people out there. I need to work on that aspect of it and we'll be good to go.

Jesus was the best example of hospitality. He welcomed others and showed love to even the lowest people. He showed us the greatest ways to make others feel loved and wanted!

Will Do

1. Be open to new ideas
2. Look for the positive in people
3. Be open to new ideas for reaching out to others
4. Remember that we're loved by God and have unique gifts to offer
5. Care about people who live with you and visit your home
6. Concentrate on helping others having a good time

To Do

1. Invite some friends over
2. Join a hospitality group
3. Buy a cookbook with ideas for entertaining
4. Invite a missionary or Christian worker over for dinner
5. Pamper a friend with a celebration
6. Visit a shut-in or nursing home
7. Bake a batch of cookies or bread and share with others

Bible verses to remember

1. Hebrews 13:2
2. Proverbs 24:3-4
3. Romans 12:13
4. 1 Peter 4:9
5. Malachi 2:10
6. Galatians 5:14
7. Matthew 25:40
8. 1 Peter 1:22
9. Hebrews 13:16
10. Psalm 133:1
11. Matthew 25:35

"I learned early on that setting a table is so much more than just laying down knives and forks. It is creating a setting for food and conversation, setting a mood and an aura that lingers long after what was served and who said what is forgotten."
            Peri Wolfman