"Great Wonders"

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By: Kristen Sigmon

“Purify yourselves, for tomorrow the LORD will do great wonders among you.” Joshua 3:5 (NLT)

Hope. Preparation. Promise.

Joshua spoke this before the Israelites crossed over into the land God had promised them. They had heard about this Promised Land but didn’t know what to expect. Little did they know the abundance God would provide there. It would be a great change from the wilderness they had been traveling in for decades.

We are much like the Israelites; we don’t know what to expect in the future. We know God has good things for us (Jeremiah 29:11, John 10:10), but we have a choice: Believe God, prepare ourselves for what He has in store, and step out in faith when He calls us to, or NOT believe God’s got something good in store, and be cynical, complacent, lazy, and disobedient. The Israelites chose the first and God is calling us to do the same.

As Christ-followers, we’re called to purify ourselves, or set ourselves apart, for God. We do this because we love God and because we know the purer our lives are, the more clearly we’ll reflect Christ to a hurting world (2 Timothy 2:21).

Purification is preparation for what is to come, preparation for seeing God do amazing things.

In my life, as I’ve set myself apart for God, I’ve seen God do amazing things. I haven’t always gotten everything I wanted, but I’ve gotten all I’ve needed and more. I haven’t gotten a boyfriend, but I’ve found true satisfaction & fulfillment in Jesus as my first love. I haven’t gotten a ton of best friends, but I have a reconciled and deeper friendship with my best friend. I followed God to seminary, and though I have a hefty student loan payment, I also have incredible memories, special friends, and new healing in my life … and God has provided financially.

What do you believe God has in store for your life? Amazing things or just average? What you believe will determine how you live your life. I choose to believe God has amazing things ahead.

I leave you with some principles that have helped me and may help you embrace all that God has for you:

+ Know God’s Word, which is Truth (John 17:17).

+ Talk to God daily. And leave space for Him to talk to you.

+ Let go of anything that distracts you from loving God with all of yourself.

+ Pursue God-sized dreams. Believe Him for what seems impossible. Don’t settle for less that His best.

+ Follow God where He leads you, even if it seems crazy or hard.

+ When life gets tough, keep looking up; things will get better if you don’t give up.

+ Find godly friends and mentors. They’ll encourage you to keep going when you want to give up. They’ll also challenge you to become more like Christ.

+ Be thankful in all circumstances (1 Thessalonians 5:18). When hard times come, remember God’s faithfulness and goodness in the past.

+ Let God be the love and passion of your life.

+ Prove your love for God by loving others.

Father God, Thank You for Your promises, including that You have a great future in store for my life. Remove anything in my life that would keep me from stepping into this reality. Help me to be thankful in the hard times and the good times, and to never give up. I want to know Your Truth, believe Your promises, prepare myself for what You have in store, and step out in faith when you call me to. Be glorified in my life in greater ways than I can imagine. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

GO DEEPER:

Ponder: Jeremiah 29:11, “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the LORD, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’” (NIV)

Apply: Choose one or two of the above principles to focus on in 2011, or come up with your own. Write it down and pray about it. Invite God to do the work He wants to do in your life.

Read: God Girl: Becoming the Woman You’re Meant to Be by Hailey DeMarco

Listen: One Pure & Holy Passion

Share: What is a dream you have for your life?

© 2010 by Kristen Sigmon. All rights reserved.

www.radrevolution.org

A Division of Proverbs 31 Ministries

Rad Rev News!

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Hey beautiful ladies!


Something really big is happening here at Radical Revolution.


Radical Revolution is transitioning from being a division of Proverbs 31 Ministries. Beginning, January 1st, 2011, Proverbs 31 speaker and author, Lynn Cowell, will be taking over the site in association with Proverbs 31. Lynn has an incredible passion for teens – that’s you guys!


Lynn lives in Charlotte, North Carolina were she loves writing and speaking as well as hiking, anything with peanut butter and chocolate together, and sushi. She loves hanging out with girls and has a new book being released April 1st titled His Revolutionary Love: Jesus' Radical Pursuit of You. She's been writing for Rad Rev for a couple of years, but is looking forward to connecting with you even more.


What does this mean for you?


Well, if you are subscribed to the site already (see right hand column of the page), you will still continue to receive weekly posts as posted on the website. They may look a little different from what you’re used to, but the content will be the same.


Lynn and her “Rad Rev” team will post a weekly devotion and weekly vlog (that’s a video log for those of you who haven’t heard of this).


Questions?


If you have any questions, you may direct them to Executive Director of Proverbs 31 Ministries, LeAnn Rice at leann@proverbs31.org.


A message from Radical Revolution’s Coordinator, Kristen Sigmon:


Ladies, it has been my wonderful pleasure to serve you here at Rad Rev these past three years. I always hate goodbyes, but sometimes they are necessary in order for us to step out into what God has for the next chapter of our lives.


To the wonderful Rad Rev team I’ve gotten to work with over the past few years, thank you all SO MUCH for how you’ve contributed your time, prayers, and writings to this ministry. We definitely could not have done it without you!


To all of our readers, God has a wonderful plan for each of you. So many of you have inspired and encouraged me, and there are many more of you whom we’ve never heard from. My prayer is that our ministry over the past three years has impacted your life and relationship with God in a beautiful way.


I’m so excited that Lynn is stepping in and taking over Rad Rev!! She is a great encourager and teacher, and most importantly she loves you guys and she loves the Lord. You will be incredibly blessed by her, so stick around! She and her team have great things in store for Rad Rev in 2011!


Girls, thank you for the privilege of serving you here at Rad Rev. And now, I want to leave you with this prayer from Ephesians:


“I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know Him better. I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe…” (Ephesians 1:16-18)


Love and blessings,
Kristen

+ + +

Now, on to the final devotion of 2010... "Great Wonders"

"New Beginnings"

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By: Emily Watkins

“I know, O Lord, that a man's life is not his own; it is not for man to direct his steps.” Jeremiah 10:23 (NIV)

Making daily to-do notes is a habit of mine, and New Years is the best time for coming up with gigantic resolution lists! Oddly enough, though I am tempted to get out my notebook and write down my goals for the New Year, I’ve felt God speaking to me: “Stop! Wait a minute! What about Me?” He wants me to take into account His plans for my life in the coming year. How can I think I am wise enough to “direct my steps” anyway (Jeremiah 10:23, Proverbs 20:24)? After all, haven't I given my life to Him? Haven't I asked Him to reign in my heart?


In His kindness God reminded me of my weakness and dependency on Him. Creator of everything, He knows the beginning and end of all things. In comparison to His wisdom, mine is a tiny grain of sand.


I don't want to hold my future, which was never mine in the first place, in a tight grip. Jesus told His disciples, “whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for Me will find it” (Matthew 16:25, NIV). I want God to be in the driver's seat.


My prayer for this coming year is: “Lord, here I am, Your servant; this year is in Your hands.”


This fall, I started college. One chapter of my life had ended and another has begun, bringing a mix of emotions. Similarly, as we look to the New Year, sometimes we have mixed emotions. We don’t always want to leave behind the familiar, but at the same time we’re excited and hopeful for what the future holds.


Thankfully, God desires to guide us on this adventure of life. I encourage you to invite God into your plans and ask Him to lead you as you look ahead into the New Year. May we not lean on our own understanding, but instead trust Him with all our heart and allow Him to direct our steps. May we love the Lord with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength while we wait for His perfect timing on everything in our lives.


We are just in the beginning of our walk with Christ and there is so much more that God wants to show us! May he reveal more of Himself to us in 2011 as we completely surrender to Him and to His plans for this New Year!


Father, thank You so much for a new year and a new beginning. Thank You for the blessings of family, friends, and the sacrifice of Your Son. Lord, I give You my heart this year – for that is all You desire. I trust in You to direct my steps. Thank You that no one whose hope is in You will ever be disappointed (Psalm 25:3)! In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

GO DEEPER:

Ponder: Philippians 1:6, “…He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus” (NIV).


Apply: Surrender the new year to the Lord and ask God to give you a greater understanding and hunger for Him. Instead of making a list of New Year's resolutions, ask God to speak to your heart and reveal His plans for this year. Write down anything you hear Him saying to you.


Read: For Such a Time As This by Lisa Ryan


Share: What do you like about new beginnings?

© 2008, 2010 by Emily Watkins. All rights reserved.

Emily Watkins is a freshman at the University of South Carolina and a former missionary kid in Poland. Her favorite food is strawberries and cheese, and she loves spending time with friends and family, riding her bike, writing, drawing with colored pencils, and learning about new cultures and places. Emily’s greatest passion and desire is to worship God, which she does by serving her community, praying for others, and modeling Christ’s excellence at work and in school. For several years, Emily has also had dreams about going to Africa, and so she plans on using her studies in international business to one day help improve living conditions in poor countries. But for now, she is enjoying her new college life in Columbia, her wonderful friends and family, and all the surprises the Lord brings to her each day.

www.radrevolution.org

A Division of Proverbs 31 Ministries

Merry Christmas!!

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Merry Christmas!!!

From the Radical Revolution Team

We love you and hope this Christmas brings many blessings

for you and your family and friends!!

www.radrevolution.org

A Division of Proverbs 31 Ministries

"Mary"

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By: Angela Parsley

“And Mary said: ‘My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed, for the Mighty One has done great things for me— holy is his name.’” Luke 1:46-49 (NIV).

Mary of Nazareth. She was a young, ordinary girl chosen by God for an extraordinary task – to be mother to the Savior of the world, Jesus Christ. There was nothing that would make the world think she was special. She was not royalty. She was not wealthy. However, she loved God and followed Him, and that’s what matters most to God. She was favored by God. The angel Gabriel told her so (Luke 1:30). Can you imagine?! What a huge blessing. And did you realize that she was your age?


I wonder if she ever felt like it had been a dream. After all, she was not married, only engaged. What a scandal that could be. Would the townspeople try to stone her? That, after all, was the punishment for adultery (Leviticus 20:10). What would her parents think of her? What about Joseph, her fiancé? Would he believe such a wild thing?


When the angel Gabriel visited, he also told her that her relative Elizabeth was pregnant (which was another supernatural circumstance in itself because she was older and supposedly barren). So the first thing Mary did was to go and visit Elizabeth. After all, they had much in common at this time. It would be good for them to spend some time together. When Mary arrived, Elizabeth confirmed Mary’s pregnancy. How did she know? Mary was not showing yet, nor had she yet said anything. However Scripture tells us the Holy Spirit revealed it to Elizabeth.


Mary then sang this praise to God that we find in our key verse for today. The verses that follow are so beautiful. Simply put, Mary praises God for the great thing He has done by giving her, a virgin and ordinary young woman, the opportunity to carry the Savior of the world. There was much she could be concerned about, like adversity and judgment from others for being unwed yet pregnant. Instead of fretting over it all, though, she praised God. She had a child-like faith and trust that should serve as an example to us.


Like Mary, God also has an extraordinary plan for your life. If you love Him with everything you are, just as Mary did, and follow Him where He leads you, as Mary did, He will use you to make a big difference in the world too!


Father, thank You so much for sending Jesus to us, for breaking the silence and sending Your Son, the One and only who would redeem the world. We are so privileged. Thank You for Your lovingkindness. We praise You Lord as Mary did. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

GO DEEPER:

Ponder: Matthew 1:19-21, “Because Joseph her husband was a righteous man and did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly. But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, ‘Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins’" (NIV).


Apply: Read all of Luke 1. Take some time to reflect on this miraculous story of the birth of our Savior.Read Mary’s words of praise and take some time praising God for things in your life.


Read: Life Style: Radical Perspectives from Radical Women in the Bible, by Whitney Prosperi


Share: Have you ever had people react negatively when you took a stand for God?

© 2008, 2010 by Angela Parsley. All rights reserved.

Angela Parsley lives in Hixson, Tennessee and she wants to visit Israel, Africa or any Caribbean island some day. She loves to sing and dance and got the chance to sing in NYC. Her most embarrassing teenage moment involves bushy hair, uncool glasses and braces. Memories of Angela’s teenage years are giving her life to Christ at age 12, spending hours on the phone and slumber parties. Her favorite verse is Acts 17:26-28 because it tells her that God has planned every life and wants to use them to greatly impact their generation.

www.radrevolution.org
A Division of Proverbs 31 Ministries

* Wearing a Scarf *

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By: Hannah Arrowood

Wrap it or Tie it? That is the question…

No – I am not talking about your Christmas presents, today we are going to address the ins and outs to wearing a SCARF!

Scarves are by far one of my most favorite accessories. You can do so much with a great scarf – and they do not even have to be expensive. I just recently was at Big Lots in my home town and found scarves for $5. WOW! I bought one in a turquoise, fuchsia and of course black. They are fantastic.

So the question remains – how do you wear a scarf? I have been asked numerous times over the past several weeks, “just how do you get it to wrap that way?” Here is the answer.

A couple of tips for you to remember:

Q – What is the right length for a scarf?

A – Scarves do come in all different lengths. The right length for you will depend on your body frame size. Stand completely straight in front of a full length mirror. When you place the scarf around your neck, and cup your hands – the scarf’s end should touch your palms. (Notice the image)

Q – How do I wear it?

A – See the example provided, that lists instructions. I have provided 4 different options. This should get you started. Be creative though … wrap yourself up.

Instructions:

I hope this helps with your winter wardrobe! Wrap up with confidence now!

© 2010 by Hannah Arrowood. All rights reserved.

As author and speaker, Hannah Arrowood desires to change lives. Hannah is founder of Designed2Shine, a ministry focused on teen girls and the issues of purity and modesty. As a Christian Image Consultant, Hannah strives to encourage the next generation to faith inspired beauty. Hannah is transparent with life situations and passionate about impacting the next generation for Christ. She is happily married to Jeff, and the mother to two beautiful girls.

For more information visit, www.hannaharrowood.com.

www.radrevolution.org
A Division of Proverbs 31 Ministries

Bible Giveaway Winners!!

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And the winners of their very own Bible from last week's giveaway are...

Claire, Age 14 from Frankenmuth, MI


AND


Diana, Age 13 from Grapevine, TX

Congrats ladies! We hope you enjoy reading through your new Bibles in 2011!!



Please send us an email at RadRevolution@proverbs31.org BY Monday, December 27 to claim your prize!

"Use Me, Lord"

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By: Autumn Sisk

“I am the Lord’s servant, ‘Mary answered. May it be to me as you have said.’” Luke 1:38 (NIV)

Mary thought of herself as an average Jewish girl. When the Angel of the Lord visited her, the Bible says she was troubled by the words the Angel used in meeting her: “Greetings you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.” (NIV) I’m sure she thought it was a dream. She must have thought to herself, “Why would God find favor with me? I’m only a poor teenager from a tiny town in the middle of nowhere, and I’m not beautiful or well-educated.” She may have even asked the angel if he had the right Mary (it was a common name in that day!).

I believe most of us would react the same way if God sent His angel proclaiming that we were highly favored and God had big plans for us. Mary may have been caught by surprise, but she eagerly accepted with gratitude God’s assignment for her. She knew it would be tough. Her reputation would be tarnished when her family and neighbors found out she was pregnant before she was married. She knew convincing Joseph that she had not been unfaithful to him would be challenging, as well (but God took care of that for her).

Mary knew it would not be easy for her or her fiancée. But above all, Mary wanted to do God’s will and accepted whatever He asked her to do for Him. She saw it as an honor to do God’s work.


She decided in her heart no matter how difficult the task, she would work for God with all of her strength. She also realized if He asked her to do something for Him, He would see her through it. God used her to bring about the greatest gift mankind has ever known, Jesus.


We may not be given a task as tough as giving birth to the Messiah but God has big plans for all of His children. We just have to be willing to accept His calling for our lives, whether it’s moving to a foreign country to do mission work or starting a Bible study with neighbors who don’t know Him. It could be anything, as we see from Mary’s story, and it will require us stepping out of our comfort zone.


Mary accepted God’s call for her life. That is what I want to do, and I can’t wait to see the amazing things God is going to do through me! Are you willing to do the same?


Dear Heavenly Father, thank You so much for Your servant Mary. I want to be like her in spirit and obedience to your call. I ask that You make me attentive to Your plans for my life and give me the strength to follow Your ways. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

GO DEEPER:

Ponder: Isaiah 41:9-10, “You are my servant; I have chosen you and have not rejected you. So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” (NIV)


Apply: Begin to pray and ask God to open your eyes and heart to His plans for your life. Ask God to give you a great desire to serve Him no matter the cost.


Read: Totally God’s 4 Life: A Devotional by Megan Clinton


Share: Have you ever heard God ask you to do something for Him? What was your reaction to His call?

© 2009-2010 by Autumn Sisk. All rights reserved.

Autumn Sisk lives in Atlanta, Georgia and has been a competitive tennis player since high school. She enjoys leading a Bible study for teenage girls and wants to one day visit Jerusalem. She is addicted to watching and cheering for the Atlanta Braves and also loves watching the Disney channel on T.V. Her favorite Bible verse is Colossians 3:17 because knowing how much Jesus loves her inspires her to live her life for Him.

www.radrevolution.org
A Division of Proverbs 31 Ministries

5 Ways to Be a Wise Teen

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By: Debra Weiss

“For wisdom is better than rubies, and all the things one may desire cannot be compared with her.” Proverbs 8:11 (NKJV)

Imagine if you had the ability to know what to do in every situation you ever faced. From your dad’s temper and fights with your best friend to dating dilemmas and more, imagine having the knowledge to know what to do in every single instance without fail.



There is a way you can know one hundred percent how to handle each set of circumstances. Sound like a fantasy? It’s not. It’s called wisdom.


When I was a teenager, my mom made me promise I would read a chapter of Proverbs every day. It wasn't a huge request and it was something my mom seemed to feel strongly about so I did it.


I didn't really understand what I was reading but day after day, I read. I began to notice that Solomon, the author of Proverbs, spoke on four topics frequently: wisdom, knowledge, understanding and discernment.


I began to pray that God would give me wisdom since it seemed to be a really big deal to Solomon. I've now been praying that same prayer for years. I have Christian mentors and friends frequently tell me that I seem to have wisdom beyond my years.


Merriam-Webster.com defines wisdom as the “ability to discern inner qualities and relationships.” Having wisdom is to have insight and discernment on what to do in any given situation.


Where do you get wisdom? You can’t just walk into a fast food restaurant and say, “I’d like two chocolate milkshakes, a burger, and oh yeah, a side order of wisdom.”


How can you be a teenager full of wisdom in today’s society? I’ve found five simple steps for being a teenager filled with wisdom.


1. Confess. Regular confession keeps us in tune with God. Sin in our lives often blocks our interest in hearing God’s voice. Be quick to confess your sins and accept that God remembers them no more.


2. Stay humble. Acknowledge that God is Supreme Ruler of the universe. No one deserves more respect, praise or adoration than Him. Stay humble by being quick to give the glory in everything you do and say to God and God alone.


3. Ask for wisdom. The only true source of wisdom is God. Look at what James, an early Christian had to say about wisdom: “But if any man among you is without wisdom, let him make his request to God, who gives freely to all without an unkind word, and it will be given to him.” (James 1:5, Bible in Basic English)


4. Read Proverbs. If you want to be wise, reading Proverbs daily is a must. The book of Proverbs written by Solomon contains many wise sayings that are relevant to our lives even today.


5. Have the right attitude. B.J. Hamrick, editor of RealTeenFaith.com says, “Being wise is really a matter of the heart. If the servant is like his master, knowing Jesus and drawing near to Him is what makes us wise.”


Ultimately, wisdom is the result of a teenager that loves Jesus and seeks His will above all.

© 2010 by Debra Weiss. All rights reserved.

Debra lives outside of Charleston, SC. She enjoys journaling, road trips, good music, learning new things, lemon filled Krispy Kremes, and hanging out with friends and family. She loves worshiping God because when we worship God, we are acknowledging that He is Supreme Ruler of our lives. After growing up in a Christian home, at the age of 13, she decided to be an atheist. Yet God searches after each prodigal relentlessly. When she was 16, she rededicated her life to Jesus Christ and has been seeking Him ever since.

www.radrevolution.org
A Division of Proverbs 31 Ministries

Giveaway: Teen Devotional Bible

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Give yourself the gift of getting to know God better in 2011!

Enter to win this Teen Devotional Bible by answering this question:

If you won this Bible, what would be the first thing you would want to read?

When you answer, include this information for your entry to be valid: First Name, Age, and City/State that you live in.


Giveaway winners will be posted next Tuesday, December 21 so check back to find out if you won!

Entries must be received by 12:00 midnight (EDT) on Friday, December 17, 2010 AND must include your answer to the question, first name, age and city/state you live in to be eligible. You must enter the giveaway by leaving a comment on the Radical Revolution site, and you must be between the ages of 12 and 18 to enter. Visit the Radical Revolution site on Tuesday, December 21, 2010 to find out who the winners are.

http://www.radrevolution.org/
A Division of Proverbs 31 Ministries

"Christmas: Crushed or Content?"

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By: Lynn Cowell
Proverbs 31 Speaker

“Don’t run up debts, except for the huge debt of love you owe each other. When you love others, you complete what the law has been after all along….” Romans 13:8 (Message)

In recent years, I’ve heard the T.V. blare out the news that the credit crunch would definitely affect the Christmas spending. Credit card companies are lowering credit limits and raising interest rates. Maybe you have heard your parents or the news talking about the economy and how things in America just aren’t that great right now. When I heard this news program, I pictured many American families beginning to worry. Where will the money come from to keep up with the way we have grown accustomed to celebrating Christmas?

Is there any possibility, though, that this could actually be a good thing?

Overspending during the holiday season is a joy robber. Why? Because it causes us to stress about money and the hole of debt we have fallen into because of buying so many Christmas gifts. In years past, you might have sensed stress in your family during this season for this very reason.

Romans 13:8 encourages us to owe no one anything except love. How does this relate to Christmas? Take my sister and her family as an example. Gifts of love were what they gave last Christmas. They all chose one family member’s name. In addition to a boughten gift, they also wrote a letter of love to the receiver. Tears of love, healing and forgiveness came as they read their letters out loud. As the tears flowed, she celebrated in her heart their best Christmas ever. The boxes may have been the fewest, but their love was the most!

How about your family as this Christmas season approaches? Could your family to adopt a new way of showing each other how much you really love each other this Christmas?

Dear Lord, Thank You for giving your Son as the ultimate gift to us. Please help me this Christmas to focus on You and help my family to do the same! In Jesus’ name, Amen.

GO DEEPER:

Ponder: 1 Timothy 6:6, “But godliness with contentment is great gain.” (NIV)

Apply: Plan one gift to each of your family members that costs very little but says the world about how you love them.

Share: What is one thing I would like to receive this year that money can’t buy? Is this something you can give to someone else?

© 2008, 2010 by Lynn Cowell. All rights reserved.

Lynn Cowell lives in Charlotte, NC with her family. They enjoy hiking, football, rugby, white water rafting, fast pitch softball and music.


Lynn loves hanging out with girls and challenging them to run hard after Jesus; to discover Him as the purest lover of their heart and to find that He completely fills every corner and every desire. He alone.


For more from Lynn, visit her blog at www.lynncowell.com and connect with Lynn on Facebook at Lynn Martin Cowell.

www.radrevolution.org
A Division of Proverbs 31 Ministries

Song: Yearn

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"How lovely is your dwelling place, O LORD Almighty!
My soul yearns, even faints, for the courts of the LORD;
my heart and my flesh cry out for the living God."
~Psalm 84:1-2


Lord, create in our hearts a greater desire and passion for You. Make us Your God Girls.

If you can't see the video, click here.

"Yearn" by Shane & Shane

Holy design
This place in time
That I might seek and find my God
My God

Lord, I want to yearn for You
I want to burn with passion
And over You
And only You

Lord, I want to yearn for You
I want to burn with passion
Over You
And only You

Lord, I want to yearn

Your joy is mine
Yet why am I fine?
With all my singing and bringing grain
In light of Him

I want to yearn for You
I want to burn with passion
And over You
And only You

Lord, I want to yearn for You
I want to burn with passion
And over You
And only You

Oh, You give life and breath
And in You we live and move
That's why I sing

Lord, I want to yearn for You
I want to burn with passion
And over You
And only You

Lord, I want to yearn for You
I want to burn with passion
And over You
And only You

Lord, I want to yearn

www.radrevolution.org

A Division of Proverbs 31 Ministries

* These Boots Are Made for Walking... *

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By: Hannah Arrowood

Do you get excited about a pair of boots, or is it just me? I must confess – I love boots. I get so excited when it becomes cold enough to wear my boots. So today, I thought we would spend some time talking about boots! Boots can add major bonus points (if there were such a thing) to your outfit, especially this season! If you have a great pair of leggings, sweater and boots – BAM, you are ready to head out – styled head to toe.

I will tell you, one of the hardest things for me to stomach is the COST of boots. When I think boots, I think expensive – but it does not have to be. A lot of places (including Payless, pictured below) – have great choice when it comes to boots.

There are so many choices: ankle boots – knee high boots – black boots, brown boots – red boots (I have a pair of red boots that are fabulous – I can’t wear them with much…but oh so cute), suede boots - leather boots – we could go on forever.

My youngest daughter is 7 (will be 8 in January). Her favorite pair of boots is her Sketchers Cowgirl boots. She wears them ALL THE TIME. It never fails, when my daughter comes tromping down the stairs for school, my husband glances over my way as if to say, “are you going to let her wear that”? I just laugh and tell her how cute she looks and we go on our way. Style, as you hear me talk about so often is personalized! My daughter LOVES her boots, and once told me that if people make fun of her, that is a sin – and she does not care! WOW – what confidence in her personal style…

Last but not least, let’s talk comfort. Boots ARE made for walking – so make sure the boots you select are comfortable to do just that.

© 2010 by Hannah Arrowood. All rights reserved.

As author and speaker, Hannah Arrowood desires to change lives. Hannah is founder of Designed2Shine, a ministry focused on teen girls and the issues of purity and modesty. As a Christian Image Consultant, Hannah strives to encourage the next generation to faith inspired beauty. Hannah is transparent with life situations and passionate about impacting the next generation for Christ. She is happily married to Jeff, and the mother to two beautiful girls.

For more information visit, www.hannaharrowood.com.

www.radrevolution.org
A Division of Proverbs 31 Ministries

Giveaway Winners!!

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And the winners of last week's giveaway are...


Libbi H. of Greeley, Colorado


AND


Courtney of North Carolina


Each of you has won any one book in our resource department (up to a $15 value) to give as a Christmas gift!


Click here to visit our resource department & choose an item.


Contact us at radrevolution@proverbs31.org by next Tuesday, December 14 to claim your prize!

"After His Heart"

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By: Audrey B.

“…I have found David son of Jesse a man after My own heart…” Acts 13:22 (NIV)

I would like to reword this verse, “… A girl after My own heart.” How do describe a girl after God’s own heart? A girl after God’s own heart is the girl who is a friend when you need one and who stands up even when it’s not “popular.” She represents 1 Corinthians 13:4: “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud” (NIV). All she wants to do is share God’s love with others. She’s not perfect, and she doesn’t try to be.


As God’s daughters He begs us to become girls after His heart! He knows that a girl after His heart wants to be challenged in her faith. She knows God’s not going to let her go and that God thinks she’s beautiful. He wants her to never stop wanting more, to never stop seeking God, to never stop deepening her faith. She has such a passion in her heart for God and His ways that she can’t describe it. She just shares it. She knows she is a sinner and needs Christ’s forgiveness. She is saddened when she sees people who live without God, for she knows they are lonely no matter what they say. She admits her struggles and fears and asks God to point out her flaws no matter how painful. She‘s learned to pray, “Thy will be done,” instead of telling God her plans, for His ways are best.


Do you want to be a girl after God’s own heart? Don’t let the “list” above intimidate you! All you need to do is be a girl who loves God and wants to be more than just “luke-warm” (Revelation 3:15). God girls can become luke-warm too, but aren’t happy with it and work to change. Everything above comes as you grow in the Lord! It won’t happen overnight; it takes perseverance.


Think on what being a Gods girl means, then fill in the blank with your name. Remember being a girl after God’s heart isn’t like being in some exclusive club; instead, it’s a shared passion for Christ!


I, ______________, am a girl after God’s own heart.


Dear Heavenly Father, I come before You now asking You to bestow upon me a deeper passion for You. A passion that will never stop wanting to grow, and when I do stop, I ask that You would renew my strength so that I may make it through that dark time. Help me to always keep You top priority in my life. Thank You God for listening to me. Thy will be done. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

GO DEEPER:

Ponder: 1 Corinthians 13:4, “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.” (NIV)



Apply: Make a point to spend a few minutes in prayer each day asking God to help you grow in Him.


Read: God Girl: Becoming the Woman You’re Meant to Be by Hayley DiMarco


Share: Do you honestly think about God much in your day to day life or are you guilty (as am I) to push him aside during the week? How will you change that?

© 2010 by Audrey B. All rights reserved.

Audrey B. lives in Florida and loves peanut butter cup ice cream. When it comes to music, Natalie Grant and Britt Nicole are her fave artists. She looks forward to learning French some day and loves lime green and orange anything. Her favorite family tradition is going to the mountains with her family to cut their own Christmas tree. Jeremiah 29:11 speaks to her heart because she knows God has a great plan for her!

http://www.radrevolution.org/
A Division of Proverbs 31 Ministries

"Never Alone"

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By: Debra Weiss

“Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you’."
Hebrews 13:5 (NKJV)

It should have been a peaceful spring day. Lately my life had felt anything but peaceful. I was stressed and worried as I stood in the sandy play area at my local church. God seemed far away from my problems, almost as if He’d just vanished when I need Him most.


"Debbie, I can't see you," my ten year old sister, Jessie said with panic in her voice. Jessie’s fear stopped me from contemplating my own problems and forced me to focus on her dilemma.

Jessie was perched at the top of the biggest slide in the park. At first, she'd liked the idea of sliding down this slide. Now that she was at the top, she wasn't so sure she wanted to go down.

This was a covered slide and had several steep curves. From the top where my sister sat, all she could see was darkness and she was frightened.

I knelt down in front of the slide so my voice would carry up to her, "Listen, this is where faith comes in. Sometimes we have to go into the darkness. I know you can't see me but you have to trust that I'm here just the same."

In a timid voice, Jessie asked, "You're there?"

"I’m right here," I said. "Now, come down. I won't go anywhere."

Just like Jessie, I’d been facing darkness and I felt abandoned. Instead of trusting God to catch me, I gave into fear.

For the first time, I wondered if perhaps God wanted me to walk in faith, trusting that He was there, even if I couldn’t see Him.

Are you facing a dark situation where it seems that God has forsaken you? It can be hard when we face a scary situation and we feel alone.

Our emotions don’t always tell the truth. Our emotions will say, “God has left you.” Yet God, who cannot lie, will never leave us. That’s one thing you can always count on.

Wherever you are, trust that God is still with you, even if you can’t see Him in your present darkness.

God, thank You that You give me the promise that You will never leave me. You are always faithful. Always here. I ask that You would remind me to trust You, even when You seem to far away. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

GO DEEPER:

Ponder: Matthew 1:23, "Look! The virgin will conceive a child! She will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel, which means 'God is with us.’” (NLT)

Apply: Next time you feel like God isn’t near, pray and ask God to help you trust His word and not your fickle emotions.

Read: Rain on Me: Devotions of Hope and Encouragement for Difficult Times by Holley Gerth

Listen: Never Alone by Barlow Girl and Safe by Phil Wickam

Share: How can you trust God when He appears to have left you?

© 2010 by Debra Weiss. All rights reserved.

Debra lives outside of Charleston, SC. She enjoys journaling, road trips, good music, learning new things, lemon filled Krispy Kremes, and hanging out with friends and family. She loves worshiping God because when we worship God, we are acknowledging that He is Supreme Ruler of our lives. After growing up in a Christian home, at the age of 13, she decided to be an atheist. Yet God searches after each prodigal relentlessly. When she was 16, she rededicated her life to Jesus Christ and has been seeking Him ever since.

www.radrevolution.org
A Division of Proverbs 31 Ministries