Paula graduated from the Moody Bible Institute in 2005 with a degree in Print Communication. Two weeks later, she began working at Revive Our Hearts, where she currently serves as Writing and Editorial Manager. Her first book, Confessions of a Boy-Crazy Girl, is scheduled to be released September 2013. When she's not blogging, you'll find her hanging out with people indulging her insatiable curiosity by asking lots of questions.
Dannah Gresh's TED Talk releases today, Leslie opens up about her two death penalties, WORLD's Marvin Olasky interviews Rosaria Butterfield, and Nancy DeMoss shares how to be intentional in your faith walk. You won't want to miss it!
Prepare to laugh with us at what Nancy's elementary teachers wrote on her report cards, and then tear up as Nancy recounts the faithfulness of the Lord in her life over the past fifty years.
Have you heard? The Spanish version of Revive Our Hearts officially launches today! Meet the ten staff members, and learn how you can pray for this new outreach.
Call me crazy, but I don’t believe in pursuing guys. (Was that a gasp I
heard?) Yes, you might want to sit down for this. Today, I’m sharing
seven reasons I’ve given God control of my love life.
Biking by the river the other evening, I passed a one-legged man in a wheelchair and realized again that life just isn’t fair. Why should I have two legs to pedal while he is constrained to a chair?
When I asked who they historically
thought Jesus was, the latecomer assumed a frontal attack, asking me
questions ranging from when Israel became a nation to the history of the
translation of the Bible to the crusades to the goddess Isis and her similarities
to the Virgin Mary.
There’s no getting
around it—I can get caught up in the “Who’s Who in Christianity Reunion” when there
are that many “sombody’s” in one room. And I feel it. That tug to do something great. To be someone great. Or at
least to rub shoulders with someone great . . .
You just never know what a day—or a weekend—might hold. I
was gearing up for some much-needed R&R yesterday afternoon when my boss spontaneously
asked if I’d like to LIVE blog The Gospel Coalition’s 2012 National Women’s Conference
today through Sunday. And although my body craved a couple of
around-the-clock-zzzz’s, my soul craved a fresh vision of God even more. And
that is the story of how, less than 24 hours later, I found myself in Orlando, Florida,
home of Sea World, Universal Studios, and just about every other fun theme park
you can imagine.
Shopping for modest clothes--let alone modest swimwear--can be painful. Try shopping for swimwear with your daughters or granddaughters, and you’re already digging through your purse for the Ibuprofen. We'd like to prevent your headache with some super practical swimwear shopping tips.
Last week, walking the sandy Michigan beach in black sundress and straw hat, I felt conspicuously clothed. Surrounded by tummy-touting females, sometimes a woman has to wonder, why not strip down, kick back, and soak up sun's summer rays?
Think of it as a giant wish list. Except . . . better. More than a wistful wish, it's the longing of your heart directed to the God who hears and answers the cries of His people.
On Monday, Dannah Gresh blogged about how she’s not reading Fifty Shades of Grey, and we received over 18,000 site visits in a day! Obviously, books are important to you. We love them, too. While we’re purposefully not reading certain books around here, there are plenty of others that we are devouring!
Nancy Leigh DeMoss takes a short break from teaching on the Song of Solomon in order to update you on what God is currently doing through the ministry of Revive Our Hearts. He is at work!
For years now, we've received requests for more practical resources on biblical womanhood. It's also been Nancy Leigh DeMoss' dream for years. In 2006, when asked "Where do you want to see the ministry ten years from now?"
Are you attending the True Woman '12 Conference in Indianapolis this September? If so, you are being prayed for daily by 150 women from the PAL, GALS, and APAL barracks in the McPherson Unit (a prison for women in Newport, Arkansas) and the Hawkins unit (a prison outside of Little Rock, AR).
Do you ever think you have to be like “that woman” in order to be a “true woman”? Change who you are to fit that cookie cutter shape? Nancy Leigh DeMoss, Mary Kassian, and their friends debunk this myth in this short video. Laugh along with them about some of their own differences—beginning with the ones seen at dinner time!
Logophile or not, you'll appreciate this short video. In it, Nancy's friends get a little boisterous when she drops the word "obstreperous" into the conversation. Click play to learn what this word means, as well as to be reminded of the power of the WORD to transform any and all obstreperous women!
Tupperware! Ovens! Floor wax! Electric washers! Vacuums! Polyester! . . . The message of womanhood in the 1950? You'll be happy when you have your stuff.
Through this precious, twelve-minute movie, you can not only peek inside the Daily's home; you can get to know Paul, Becky, and their five boys. While they're all pretty incredible, one in particular stands out. Titus.
And my favorite part? Carolyn McCulley’s reminder that the best is yet to come! We expect so much here, but it’s just a fallen world. We’re waiting for paradise restored. Waiting in hope, in joyful hope!
Ooo, this is a practical one! Just four minutes long, you’ll catch some of Mary Kassian's travel stories, learn a new German word in the process, and hear about the time a man told her,"Women have no idea of the power of their femininity. When I encounter a feminine woman, it makes me want to rise up and serve her."
There's God's ideal for male-female relationships, and then . . . there's reality. Often, that reality is less than ideal. Sometimes, it's nothing short of horrific! In this six-minute video, Mary Kassian, Nancy Leigh DeMoss, and their friends steer clear of simplistic answers and . . .
Today, you can actually get your hands on True Woman 101: Divine Design by Mary Kassian and Nancy Leigh DeMoss. It looks, feels, and smells great (just like a brand-new book should!). Not only that, TrueWoman101.com also launched early this morning! Be one of the first visitors to this gorgeous new site . . .
Just one short week from today, True Woman 101: Divine Design by Mary Kassian and Nancy Leigh DeMoss will hit shelves everywhere! After combing through the content multiple times, I've gotta tell you, this new study rocks . . .
Hear not only about how the conference weekend went, but about the door Nancy Leigh DeMoss and our team believes God is opening to reach Latin America!
We're thrilled that this weekend's first-ever international Revive Our Hearts Conference in the Dominican Republic sold out a couple weeks ago. Pray that the 3,000 women coming from the DR; Panama; Colombia; Ecuador; Puerto Rico; Chihuahua, MX; and Uruguay would have a transforming encounter with God!
I’d like to propose a toast. Grab a cup of coffee, a can of Pepsi, your Nalgene bottle—any beverage nearby will do—and let’s drink to . . . the best Valentine’s Day yet!
I wish I’d known earlier that God blesses us with friends of all ages! When I graduated college, I floundered for a while. No one had warned me that I wouldn't always have a group of friends just like me.
While the whole running away from God ordeal was pretty embarrassing, I’ve think Jonah's temper tantrum with God in chapter four tops even that. Much to his chagrin and our entertainment, we get to observe the whole thing! It’s almost humorous, until we realize we’re not really all that different . . .
Have you ever caught someone's eye? Gained their admiration and respect? It's quite the high, isn't it? I recently finished reading the book of Daniel, and it left me aching to catch heaven's eye--the way Daniel did!
Happy Friday! As you head into your weekend, check out this game plan for worriers, watch a short video from Nancy, leave a comment for a chance to win the Getty's brand-new Christmas CD, and take a fresh look at the importance of . . . theology!
Here are some excellent thoughts from Pastor Crawford Loritts’ message this morning, as well as a few memories from today—the good, the bad, and the . . . well, random.
Pastor Crawford Loritts dug into the Word for the traits every leader-used-by-God had in common. His findings just might shock you (it’s not exactly what all the leadership books lining Barnes & Noble shelves are touting!).
I’m going to need to touch up my makeup. Nancy Leigh DeMoss didn’t just make me cry; she undid me (in a good way). Or rather, the Holy Spirit did through her . . .
Download the True Woman 101 sampler and get a feel for the bold colors, inviting design, and eye-opening content. Then, sit down with Mary Kassian and Nancy Leigh DeMoss on this video as they fill you in on what this study is all about.
My ears perked up last night as Mary Kassian said of this video shoot, "The ultimate goal isn't to exalt biblical womanhood--the ultimate goal is to exalt Jesus Christ."
As impactful as True Woman ’08 was, and as inspiring as True Woman ’10 was, personally, I think True Woman ’12 is going to be epic! I expect to meet with the living God there, and I hope you will, too!
Meet Carla Harvey, a bright and inspiring wife, mom, and self-admitted “addict” to Revive Our Hearts and Nancy Leigh DeMoss. Hear how her life “exploded” at the True Woman ’08 Conference, and how she’s taken ownership of the True Woman Movement since then.
Read a few excerpts from Nancy Leigh DeMoss’ journals to see how the Lord led her in the process leading up to the beginning of Revive Our Hearts radio.
I will never forget what I witnessed and participated in last week. You’ve probably read the verse that says, “And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need.” But have you seen it in action? I have!
I relate a whole lot to Peter. On his own, he was a fearsome mess. Matthew 26 shows him so knock-knee scared he's cussing and lying out his teeth, saying he never even knew this Jesus-dude. And yet, just weeks later three thousand souls are saved after he preaches one power-packed sermon. What caused this dramatic difference in Peter?
That’s when Nancy did it—dropped the bomb. Knowing how much I wanted to be married, she encouraged me not to live alone. She said that when we live alone, we tend to get set in our ways. Maybe it doesn’t sound crazy to you, but at the time it sounded so . . . counter-cultural! I didn’t like hearing it, and yet, it stuck with me as . . . true.
I thought being a good Christian meant keeping a lot of rules (don't drink, don't have sex before marriage, don't cheat on tests or taxes, don't, don't, don't). So I didn't. And that made me feel good and proud about myself.
Somehow I always knew the standard was perfection. Maybe it's because I am a firstborn. Or maybe it's because I was raised on the Bible. Either way, I knew I didn't measure up to God's holy standard. Sadly, it took me years to realize that Jesus was the source of my perfection . . .
As you celebrate the freedoms others have won for us, I’m also praying Jesus continues to free us up to fully live and enjoy the abundant life He purchased for us through His life, death, and resurrection! With that in mind, here are twenty-two liberating truths to wrap your arms and heart around this Independence Day.
Today I want to share several videos with you. If I could, I’d make some homemade caramel popcorn for you to munch on as you watch (my personal movie tradition) . . .
It all started several months ago when our staff began watching the “Flow” video series by Pastor John Ortberg, who likened life in the Spirit to . . . surfing!
I’ve known something for a while now that has had me really scared, and it’s this: I’m terrified of sharing the Gospel with unbelievers. So terrified that I’ve started telling God “No, I won’t—I can’t—tell them about You.”
The CNN Belief Blog featured an article by Dannah Gresh on May 31 titled “My Take: There’s Nothing Brief About a Hookup.” Last time I checked, there were 758 comments!
“You only have to please one. I still struggle with the people pleasing thing, but that echoes in my head a lot. Accept the fact that you are who you are and minister out of who you are. That frees me up a bunch.”
I asked God to make me one crazy generous giver, and began to compile my third list: a list of people I’ve thought of giving to . . . wanted to give to . . . but never have. Then, I proceeded to have one of the most fun days ever!
The time has finally come. If you had attended a Monday morning prayer time with our team over the past few months, you would have heard me ask many times, “Any update on future True Woman Conferences?”
I thought you’d be interested in reading several prayers Nancy Leigh DeMoss has prayed for herself over and over again through the years. Then, I’d love to hear what prayer(s) you regularly pray for yourself!
You know how a child will take her first two steps and then fall face-first on the ground? To this day, Pastor Chandler has never met a father who exclaims, “Idiot!” when this happens. Rather, he cries, “Get the camera! Get the camera!” He celebrates the steps and sets his daughter back up after her fall. He knows she will just get better and better at walking.
"This is a foreshadowing of Christ, who in Himself is the only One who has the right to take as His own all that spoils and ruins, all our loss, hurt, disaster, alienation, brokenness . . . all our sinful mess of things. He takes our diseases and bears them in Himself."
If seeing Jesus and the Gospel in the Old Testament sounds like just what you need, let’s meet right here on the blog tomorrow and Thursday and enjoy Him together.
Are you feeling over-stimulated, distracted, bombarded on all sides by information and entertainment? Listen in as I talk with Tim Challies about his brand new book, The Next Story: Life and Faith After the Digital Explosion.
You’ve been there, too, I know. You encounter disappointment, heartbreak, or hardship, and think, “God must not love me” or “I’m not worth anything” or “My circumstances will never change—this will go on forever!”
Samaritan’s Purse teams on the ground in Japan are working with Japanese churches to hand out blankets, water, hygiene kits, and other assistance—showing the compassion of Jesus Christ to people who are hurting and grieving.
Yesterday, I went on record to say that I do not believe in pursuing guys (was that a gasp I heard?). Yes, you might want to sit down for this. Today, I’m giving you the final four reasons I have given God control of my love life.
Call me crazy, but I do not believe in pursuing guys. That's right. I have given God control of my love life, and today and tomorrow, I want to tell you why.
Please give a warm, true woman welcome to Karen Waddles, our newest True Woman blogger. I think you’ll love her! Get to know her a bit today with this Q&A . . .
If you’re not feelin’ it, the answer isn’t to make Him prove His love apart from His sacrifice on the cross, but to pour over those moments when He “put skin” to His love and bled and sufferedfor you, in your place.
“I was at my wits end with my husband. We’ve been married just over a year and have had some of the worst verbal, knock-down, drag-out fights of my life! We’re like junkyard dogs with a bone—ain’t NOBODY gonna take from us what we believe is ours."
If you’d seen me—skis and poles flying every which way, kids hurrying
out of my way, grown men shouting over their shoulder, “Are you
okay?”—you would have laughed or cried ‘til you hurt.
Does Scripture memory sound like “just another thing to do” on an already overwhelming to-do list? What if you learned it was one of the greatest weapons with which to battle discouragement and depression in your life? Would that pique your interest a bit more?
My friend, Andrea Salzman, is a whiz when it comes to eliminating
clutter. In fact, she’s come up with a way to make de-cluttering a daily
lifestyle rather than an all-day de-cluttering binge.
Does anyone else out there feel the crush of stuff? Maybe it’s
overflowing dressers, hampers, and closets; a towering pile of bills
stacked precariously on your counter; or just a general sense that if
you don’t maintain control at all moments, your whole world could come
crashing down.
Have you said anything yet today? I ask because a combination
of conversations and books over the last few weeks have made me pause
before writing or speaking so quickly.
"Seven years later, I still fall back into my worry-and-need-to-control bouts every now and then. In these times, it is so reassuring to go back to the journals I wrote during those last months in Orlando. I review my prayers, and my faith is strengthened as I look back and see how God used every delay, problem, and hurdle for good in my life. I have been able to connect the dots between seemingly isolated events, and have been able to see God’s hand through it all; like the weaving of a tapestry."
In this fifteen-minute interview, you’ll hear Tim and Aileen Challies answer questions like "What should a woman do if her husband’s asking her to do things in the bedroom that violate her conscience?" and "Do single women have any hope of getting pure men?"
Meet Stacey Smith and several other prison inmates. You’ll be amazed at
how God can change everything about drug addicts, murderers, those who
want to take their own life, criminals of any kind . . . you, and me!
I started noticing that the incredibly encouraging emails my mom regularly sent me were full of Scripture. They weren’t just hopeful sentiments from a mom, but actual promises from God that gave me something sturdy to cling to.
When Lorna’s husband began drinking heavily, she decided that the answer to her problems was divorcing him. But through an “only God!” encounter, Lorna realized that divorce wasn’t the answer; God was.
If you’d asked 20-year-old Holly Elliff what she was going to do with her life, her answer would’ve been quite different than the way her life actually turned out.
A couple weeks ago, I left my computer and cubicle behind, and hit the streets asking women some tough questions about what it means to be a true woman. While I’m glad I didn’t have to answer these questions on the spot, I will say that there’s a whole lot of confusion amongst women about who we are, why we exist, and what will make us truly happy.
Many of you are already asking if there's a way to listen to the final True Woman '10 Conference in Fort Worth. What if I told you that you could ask us for so much more, and we would give it to you?!
If I were Deborah, and were writing my own bio, I’d want people to know that I was a prophetess, a warrior, a strategist, a leader. But Deborah wasn’t motivated by recognition or fame.
Manhood, womanhood, marriage, and sex are all mini-lessons that tell a watching world the story about the Bridegroom who loved his bride so much that He died to redeem her! Because these are such critical images, is it any wonder that they’re at the center of such a strong battle today?
Karen expressed disbelief, and then despair, as she learned that her family had been victimized by someone they’d known for over 20 years. No one could console her. Night and day she cried, walking from room to room crying out, “Jesus, help us! Help us! Help us!”
In spite of the fact that there are billions of people on this planet, the world watched and cared deeply for number 16 . . . for number 33. Nancy likened this to Christ’s heart for each individual.
Their raw, fragile emotions raged as they waited all Sabbath long before bringing spices to His tomb. When they finally arrived, His body was missing! They looked at each other with hopelessness, confusion, and betrayal . . .
"If Solomon were alive today and we were to ask him how we can honor God in our use of all these social media available to us today, here is how he might respond."
Do you know what God’s Word says about money? About work and rest and food? How about what it says about womanhood? In this video, Kay Arthur encourages you to know what the Word of God says about these areas—and so many more!
I know I can’t be the only one who sometimes feels that God is withholding something good from them. And I suspect I’m not the only one who can become so fixated on what I don’t have that I miss the unexpected ways God’s meeting those very needs.
In this video, Jennifer talks about a darkness we all struggle with—depression. She calls it normal, encourages us not to mask it, and tells us about our God who offers us the grace we need in the darkness.
I just have to do one more post about what God did at the True Woman Conference in Indianapolis. You don't mind, do you? . . . Because God deserves some serious celebration after His answers to countless prayers!
When you whisper, “I choose you, Lord,” “I prefer you, Lord . . . in spite of this pain,” it’s like rubbing salt in the enemy’s wounds. You’re saying that God is worth following based on His merits alone! When they see this, the spirits think to themselves, “Woa. How great her God is to inspire such loyalty.”
Good morning! I prayed for you this morning from Psalm 86—that Your God who is forgiving and good and abounding in love for you would guard your life, bring joy to you on this Saturday, and would give you an undivided heart that you might fear His name.
Thanks for voting! The most votes went to Stacey Smith’s workshop, “Unpredictable Emotions” and Bob Lepine’s workshop, “Food, Beauty, and Control—Three Snares Women Face.” (How did you ladies know I needed to attend these workshops?!)
Bob Lepine courageously went “where angels fear to tread” as he talked to a room full of women this afternoon about the three areas he believes can easily take on an unhealthy, idolatrous nature: food, beauty, and control.
I don’t know if any of you are still awake to even read this, but I suppose it will always be waiting for you in the morning as you sip your coffee. (Do you drink coffee?)
At 9 a.m., a few of us from the Revive Our Hearts team
met in room 309 of the Westin. Over breakfast, we gave our friends from
the Dominican Republic the go-ahead to begin translating and airing Nancy’s radio program in
Santo Domingo, making it our inaugural start in Spanish broadcasting!
Since you agreed to be participants in what God’s going to do here this week, I thought I’d take it a step further and let you participate in the breakout sessions of your choice. Here’s how this will work . . .
If you’re not able to attend, I want to take you behind-the-scenes so you, too, can experience the True Woman Conference (almost) as if you were here yourself! I know it’s asking a lot, but would you—sitting in front of that computer—be a participant in what God’s going to do here?
In this video, Nancy shares how the Lord’s really challenged her to
become more of a true woman of God as she’s grappled with each of the
statements in the True Woman Manifesto.
Meet Stacey Smith, an ex-convict who is now ministering to women in—and out of—prison. As she says in this video, there isn’t a huge difference, as all women have prisons of the heart that they need to be—and can be!—freed from.
Last night I left four pounds of chuck roast simmering in the crockpot
for ten hours. When I woke this morning, a most amazing smell had wafted
around the kitchen corner, up the stairs, under my door . . . and
permeated just about every square inch of the house.
. . . The four creatures who surround God’s throne and the twenty-four elders seated on thrones--well, they look at each other incredulously for a few seconds
and then whisper, “Is that ALL she’s going to ask?!”
While listening to Nancy and Mary talk, I continued pondering how well the movie The Incredibles illustrates several points made by speakers in the True Woman Movement . . .
It’s easy to get hung up on trying to meet a long list of criteria, and
miss the most basic thing. As Pastor Voddie Bauchum shares in this
video, true womanhood looks like . . . Christ!
Did you know that between the next two True Woman Conferences, we’ll need 750 volunteers? It takes a lot of manpower—er, womanpower!—to pull off a couple conferences of this magnitude.
When everything in my feminine heart yearns to be deeply rooted and
secure . . . I can be. Not in my cute home on the corner, but in Him—in
the One who gives me life, the One who is my life.
If you at all enjoy praying or walking, can I encourage you to listen to
this really practical conversation? Or, if you're feeling rather stymied in your prayer life . . . Either way, I think you'll catch a bit of Christ’s heart for the world as you listen to Erin
Davis.
I used to think humility looked something like this: deflecting compliments, staying away from high-profile positions, even talking down on oneself occasionally. But then Moses changed my mind.
I know it may be hard for you to believe, but Kim was not always as sweet as she is today! She is a trophy of God’s grace. But then, so are most of us . . .
I think all birthdays and holidays should be spent together. To me, no present is complete without a mushy card. But Dad’s different. I’m still learning how to communicate love
and respect for him in a way that he understands and desires.
Sarah Newell is a young mom who recently realized that her method of discipline was putting her two-year-old daughter under guilt. Lots has changed, and Sarah now considers discipline a joy!
My boss loves to go home for lunch so he can spend time with his family. He talks to his wife, Carrie, several times a day over IM and the phone, and even brings his kids to work about once a week.
"Blindness is one of those words like cancer, like divorce, like autism, like bankruptcy that we just don’t ever expect to hear, and we certainly don’t expect it to become our word . . ."
Five years ago, this cocky, over-eager college graduate arrived thinking
I would help Revive Our Hearts minister to women. Ha! Turns out I
was the one who was mentored and helped by this ministry.
"Recently I had my fourth kidney stone. Have you ever had one? The pain is unrelenting, consuming, and unresponsive to any 'over-the-counter' pain meds. It's a paralyzing, helpless, hopeless kind of feeling. My initial response to the pain was to focus inwardly and whimper to Jesus for relief."
". . . Her departure ushered in a season of loneliness that I hadn’t
experienced since my college years. My stomach still tightens when I remember those early years at Kansas University."
"I am no less of a woman in my singleness, and when I embrace God’s purpose in my singleness rather than resenting it, I am able to display trust in a sovereign God to the world around me. This type of trust will reveal much about God’s character to the world around me: 'Therefore, a single woman who lives with that final day in view, and finds Christ to be her all in all here, says something very powerfully and very clearly about her Savior.'”
Our team will be rallying women throughout the Southwest and Midwest—bringing plenty of info about the True Woman Conferences, and coming to fire you up about why Now Is the Time for them!
When True Woman ’10 comes to Indianapolis and Fort Worth this Fall, we
want to be sure you can be there! That’s why we’re offering special BIG
savings this Spring.
“Even though I’m in the 'Terrible Two’s' phase of this
whole thing—the phase where I whine and complain and bark out all kinds
of untrue Me Me Me commands when I don’t get my way, I can
already see the Holy Spirit at work."
Erin Roberts was inspired to start memorizing Scripture when she heard Nancy Leigh DeMoss interviewing Nancy Epperson on the subject. Be encouraged to dig in to the Word of God, too, as Erin shares about the new purpose she’s found.
. . . That’s just one of the many reasons it gives me great pleasure to announce the just-released book, Voices of the True Woman Movement. Pull up a chair (or sit down on the corner of my beach towel), and let’s turn the never-before-opened cover and take a glance inside.
I don’t care what she says—I don’t believe Kay Arthur is 76! She’s an absolute dynamo from the crown of her beautiful hair to the sole of her black knee high boots. I’ve heard a lot of passionate speaking from the platform this weekend, but . . . well, nothing compares to the fire that burns within Kay.
Jennifer Rothschild is blind, but it would only be a waste of time for you to feel sorry for her. Sure, there have been times when she has felt she’s “drowning in a Niagra of hopelessness.” But, she’s learned that blindness—and other difficult or tragic circumstances we all encounter—are not what define us. Rather, they refine us.
Be encouraged wherever you are serving today, as Pastor Voddie Bauchum reminds us that there is no role that is too small for God to use to impact the Kingdom!
I was wakened early this morning to the sound of the shower. When I
asked my roomie if she couldn’t sleep, she said, “I’m just getting ready
for the day.” “Umm, my clock says 2:15 a.m.,” I told her . . .
I have a problem. I like to snack. No . . . I think I need to snack. I think it all started when I was a teen. Lovely summer afternoons were spent on my bed with a couple fiction books and a two-pound bag of Wildberry Skittles . . .
True women of God are . . . well, strange! Learn why as Janet Parshall discusses the three hallmarks of these women that are so antithetical to the culture.
Whether you realize it or not, you’re basing your life on some creed or set of beliefs. The way you pick up those toys or respond to those emails or eat reflects what you believe.
The drama continues. Only this time, Eve isn’t the main character—you are. Sin is still seductive. The stakes are still high. The consequences are still devastating. The choice is yours. Will you listen to God’s voice?
"As Jonathan's plans advanced and marriage seemed like the greatest possibility, I found myself asking, 'How can this be? I am so young and unprepared.'"
I had the privilege of "meeting" Laura G De Chavez's only daughter, Sarah, while I was in the Dominican Republic, and I couldn't resist sharing her story with you.
Yesterday I was reminded that love is so much more than a sentiment. The sort of love and compassion that God requires of us was first personally shown to us on the Cross, and it’s this very love that propels us as we love others practically—even at great personal inconvenience.
Wes Ward, our director of media, left for the US today saying, “I have never seen one place where so much of what we do is used so widely, by so many, so deeply, so regularly.” Everywhere we turn there are more stories of how God is transforming individuals, families—even churches—as a result of the True Woman Conferences and Revive Our Hearts resources.
At True Woman '08, the Lord started “tumbling down” everything Cindy believed about life, marriage, and more. In her words, “It’s where God revealed Himself to me. He’s changed my life completely.” He really has!
We were just a few minutes into the interview when it became apparent that we would not be able to continue. Between the neighbors’ outdoor birthday party (think lots of 6- and 7-year-old girls blowing birthday horns) and their Chihuahua’s persistent yapping (who knew such a little dog could make such a racket!), we knew we would not win the war against the noise.
As the afternoon faded into evening, it quickly became apparent to me that these women have something I don’t: their trust in God is rock-solid. Their faces and lives are illuminated with joy in the middle of difficult—even terrifying—circumstances.
Then there’s Chiree Bollinger. She’s the master storyteller. She’ll sit down with the women and work magic so that within a couple minutes they’ve all but forgotten that bright lights, cameras, and reflectors in their faces are anything but natural . . .
Today, five of us are going international to bring you the stories of some amazing women from the Dominican Republic. Thanks to the worldwide web, you’ll be able to travel with us for the next several days!
On January 1, I dusted off and opened up my One-Year Bible. On January 5, my eyes grew wide as I read that Adam lived 930 years. (I had forgotten that people used to live so long!) Can you imagine the opportunities for improvement if you were able to make 8 or 900 New Year’s resolutions? I thought to myself.
Scripture memory is just another discipline that helps us bury the Word deep in the soil of our hearts. So, is anyone else ready to get their hands dirty?!
According to Fern Nichols, prayer is the most important thing you can do. She shares about the impact her mom’s prayers had on her as a little girl, and then also talks about when God keeps us in the “waiting room.”
Dannah Gresh points out that God isn’t the only one saying purity is important. Feminists realize that if they can dismantle purity in a teen, so many other things can be dismantled: their view of men, children, and more.
Janet Parshall expresses concern for women who are being taken as “prisoners of war,” talks about the importance of truth, and explains where exactly to find it in a culture that doesn’t believe it exists.
Do you feel like “throwing in the towel” in your marriage, in your faith walk with Jesus, in life in general? As you watch this video, be encouraged that because God is a God of redemption, there’s no reason to quit! There is a way out, and He will provide that at the right time.
Pastor Ligon Duncan says when we learn to revel in the counter-cultural truths of Scripture of how men and women are to relate to each other, we suddenly find that far from being stifling, they’re liberating!
You may know Barbara Rainey as an author, co-founder of FamilyLife, and a True Woman ’08 speaker. But did you know she’s also a painter? At our last conference, I asked Barbara how she would portray biblical womanhood in a painting. I love her answer! Watch it for yourself.
Let me tell you--as one who works with them five days a week--they're the real deal. They even scrape the ice off our windshields on especially cold winter days! Not that this video or this post is about them . . .
Every two weeks we’ll be releasing a new True Woman Video for you to enjoy and share with your friends. Today, be encouraged as you hear from John Piper, Nancy Leigh DeMoss, and several women like you that your womanhood was made for the glory of Christ!
Revive Our Hearts is delighted to partner with four incredible ministries to bring you three True Woman '10 National Women's Conferences. I want to tell you about each of these ministries over the next several weeks, beginning with Moms in Touch International.
"Suddenly an idea hit. I had two goals: I wanted to read the Bible, and I wanted my children to know God’s Word. Why not do both at the same time? Why not read the entire Bible together?"
We met Kari at the True Woman ’08 Conference where she realized she’d been resenting her precious children. Learn more about her epiphany in this short video clip.
It’s not that I’m a kid-hater, but I tend to think they don’t have much to offer me. See, I like to get things done, and kids don’t know much about (or value) deadlines or to-do lists . . .
"As Christians, we have an opportunity to help families around the world by both standing against incredible injustice against women and by preaching the gospel of reconciliation. Let's not lose any ground to lesser solutions."
Where is God calling you? Maybe the people you’re called to are nothing like you. Maybe they disturb your peace by playing their music a few decibels too high and a few hours too long. Maybe they’re antagonistic toward your faith. Maybe they have a different skin color. Political party. Income level. Maybe they just let their grass grow too long.
This week two men came to our company to try to promote some kind of supplemental insurance. We avoided them like the plague. I wonder if that’s how it is with us and non-Christians.
For reasons I won’t go into, I spent several hours this past weekend combing through my Bible, looking up each reference on divorce and remarriage. I asked God to help me come to the text without an agenda or desired outcome—I just wanted to hear His heart on the whole subject. What I found took my breath away.
A verse that people have often quoted to me regarding my relationships with guys is Proverbs 4:23: “Guard your heart, for from it flow the springs of life.” I’ve never known exactly what that meant . . . just that I was somehow supposed to steel myself against the very thing I wanted most.
What are you to do when you’ve been taking an aerobics class with this woman for two years, or you’ve been sitting by this person at softball games for an entire season, or you’ve known that family for decades . . . and you can’t remember their names?
Conversation is often an easy, pleasurable experience—with those you connect with—but when conversation doesn’t come naturally, are you prepared to work at it?
Your floors can be sparkling, the windows shining, the aromas wafting, but if you don’t know how to connect with your guest . . . well, it’s a flop! Here are a few simple do’s and dont’s I’ve learned along the way.
Two errors wives can believe about home making: One, we expect our husband to be our helper, and two, we resent our husband when he doesn’t help us at all.
I actually found it to be packed with intriguing questions that made me realize how much I still have to learn! (And by the way, do you think you could set up a household overseas?)
The following letter is from my current pastor’s wife, Holly. I love it. I hope it will help you as you seek to support, love, and respect your pastor and his wife as they shoulder the responsibilities and burdens of shepherding the church daily.
Have you heard? Nancy announced on the radio program today that we are planning to host three True Woman Conferences in 2010. We sure hope you can join us!
In our fluid society, I realize that you may have to choose a new church several times in your life. What sorts of things should you look for when you’re “church shopping”?
I remember the first time someone asked me, “So what has God been teaching you lately?” I was a freshman in college, and was stunned by this guy’s brazenness in asking me such a personal question!
I remember when my family got a swimming pool, a trampoline, and a ping-pong table. We splashed and jumped and volleyed for days, but soon, we lost the wonder . . .
For some odd reason, I feel like a waitress at a fine dining restaurant—“Our special this evening is a hearty cut of True Woman Sirloin, followed by mouth-watering True Woman Tiramisu . . .”
Just a couple days ago, I was wounded by someone’s words. As I wiped my tears away, I picked up Nancy DeMoss’ four-week devotional booklet titled The Power of Words, and found my perspective changing as I read this . . .
We’ve received a number of emails at Revive Our Hearts over the past couple of days from women who are confused by Christian media’s seemingly wholehearted embrace of Carrie Prejean as a Christian role model.
I’m excited because these very virtues are the ones that please God—the ones He finds beautiful, according to His Word. That’s enough to motivate me to tackle these all-too-often foreign virtues!
"If I could pray one thing for tweens, it would be that at their age, they can grasp how much Jesus loves them. If they really can grasp that and have that God-confidence . . . man, it will be life-changing!"
Every morning, Maryann wakes up and thanks God for the cross. It’s the centerpiece of her life. Maryann was raised in a Christian family. However, in high school she got absorbed into the drug and party culture, and found out she was pregnant at the age of 17. She had an abortion, which she kept a secret for 15 years, before specifically confessing her sin.
I’m pushing a lawn mower, biceps flexed, wearing a t-shirt I’ve earned by waking up before dawn to detassle in the cornfields. Yes, I feel good about myself and my strength.
I tiptoed into the expansive, elegant great room at The Lodge this morning, to catch a bit of Revive Our Hearts’ first Women’s Ministry Directors' Retreat. Eleven women were standing in a circle, each holding a large sheet of paper . . .
It reminds me of sitting at the supper table as a little girl, shoveling the last bite of food into my mouth, and saying to Mom in one fast, slurred syllable, “ThankyouforthegoodmealmayIbeexcused?” I always said it. Every night . . .
"Often I attend prayer meetings where various requests for healing, finances, safety in travel, or job promotions are divvied out. Naturally, we desire prayer for such things. But a closer look at God's Word would reveal deeper and more divinely inspired ways to pray for friends and family."
"Not long after the honeymoon was over, I learned that my new husband preferred to spend Monday nights in front of the TV with chips, salsa, and the NFL rather than being my hands to write out my Bible study for me. Horrors, I thought, he's not a man of the Word!"
"He answers in ways that literally take my breath away . . . His gracious giving of power to do what feels impossible to do, the perfect timing in which He answers, and the way He answers–revealing complete knowledge and understanding beyond human wisdom or even comprehension."
Every once in awhile, I meet someone whose life nearly takes my breath away with its beauty. My friend, Debra Fehsenfeld, is a passionate follower of Jesus, a wife and mother of four, a lover of all people, and a praying woman. (She’s cool, too!) I asked if she’d answer my questions about prayer . . .
I don’t know about you, but the one thing that consistently holds me back from all-out surrender to God is fear. Fear that He won’t give me what I desire most.
Tell us how you--like Twila--are spreading the True Woman Movement, and register to win a True Woman Tote Bag and Brokenness, Holiness, Surrender Trilogy!
I, too, have experienced the heartache that can come from choosing to love. Yesterday I wrestled with this question: Where’s the joy in this whole thing? Shouldn’t there be joy?
Jesus’ answer just raised more questions for me. Why did He include the second commandment when the man just asked for the greatest commandment? And most of all, what does it mean that all the Law and the Prophets depend on these two commandments?
It all happened one day when Simon the Pharisee invited Jesus to a dinner party at his house. Jesus came, but from the moment he stepped in the door, it was obvious how “welcome” he really was . . .
Who or what is competing with God for first place in your life? Dr. David Powlison’s questions will help you find the answer—if you’re brave and committed enough to probe the depths of your heart for the answers.
"I'd been involved in some capacity of 'formal' ministry since 1980. And then, it all stopped. At first I was excited to see what was 'next.' . . . Then, nothing, except the same everydayness of life: walk the dog, feed the cat, count the new blooms on the geranium plant . . . you get the picture. I felt very useless, and worst of all, very alone."
"Do I have desires? Yes. Do I have God-given abilities? Yes. Has God provided opportunity to use them right now? No. So, I wait on the Lord, rejoice, pray, and give thanks . . . and actually mean it now."
Use these tools only after you have searched the Scripture carefully for yourself. Ask the Holy Spirit to open your eyes to the Truth in His Word, and work hard! Then—and only then—crack open these books, and learn from what God has spoken to others. If you are unfamiliar with how to use these tools, ask a pastor or another experienced student of the Word for help.
"There is no other worldview that gives the respect to womanhood that Jesus does.” Watch this short video by Dr. Ravi Zacharias and tell me if you agree.
"My life story bears testimony to the fact that the Lord can captivate and enthrall a woman’s heart for her whole life–through every stage. I fell in love with him when I was a little girl."
Although many of you had the privilege of “meeting” Mary at the True Woman ’08 Conference as she delivered her fantastic message, “You’ve Come a Long Way, Baby!” . . . I wanted you to have the opportunity to see her offstage. Today and tomorrow, enjoy getting to know Mary a bit more personally!
We’re really focusing on one main thing these two days: how to equip you in order to foster a viral, grassroots movement of “feminine warriors for Christ,” as Carolyn McCulley says. So,if you could ask for any resource from us, what would you ask for?
Early next month, Nancy will record a new series on Scripture memorization. Your experience/insights would be extremely helpful to her. Therefore . . .
. . . Kay Arthur likens it to reading a book about frogs instead of traipsing through the marsh looking for a real frog. It would be easier to read the book about frogs, but you’d only end up with secondhand knowledge. You’d never have a personal encounter with a frog.
You may already have a regular Bible reading plan, but just in case you don’t, here are several. I can’t overemphasize the importance of a regular reading plan that includes all of God’s Word. At the same time, don’t put yourself in a box . . .
"I'm asked that question so often that I've been tempted to throw out some fabrication like, 'We met at the '94 World Heavy-Weight Wrestling Championship' or 'Back in the 80's we were both backstage trying to get autographs from Bob Dylan' just to watch jaws drop. Seriously, though, meeting Nancy was a sovereign gift from God . . ."
Spend some time alone with the Lord every day in His Word and in prayer . . . accept this challenge, and we’ll send two of you the new ESV Study Bible!
. . . Think of it like exercise. Few and far between are the women who look forward to running alone on a treadmill. But, get a group of women together at the YMCA, with a loud, peppy cheerleader-type at the front, and suddenly exercise becomes . . . enjoyable!
Mark Elfstrand interviews Nancy on the True Woman Manifesto, and Dr. Albert Mohler and Mary Kassian talk about the “explosive stuff” of the True Woman Manifesto.
Today on Revive Our Hearts radio, we’re airing a retrospective of the True Woman ’08 Conference. Hear from John Piper, Nancy Leigh DeMoss, Mary Kassian, and more.
Nancy just wrote something in a letter about the Revive Our Hearts Matching Challenge that really spoke to me. She said, “God doesn’t care so much who you give to, but that you do give.”
This morning I heard a 13-year-old boy who had just returned from a missions trip to El Salvador say, “I’m convinced that the more you have . . . the more you want . . . and the more discontent you become.” Smart kid, eh?
Isn’t it funny how we can overlook the most basic things sometimes? Like last week—when I washed a load of laundry—and forgot to add the soap! Or, like forgetting to . . . tell God your needs.
. . . to top it off, Steve and Vikki Cook have graciously given us permission to make the True Woman ’08 theme song, “Truly Yours,” available to friends like you.
Dr. Helen Roseveare told of the release and peace that came when she sensed God asking her, “Helen, are you willing to give me thanks for that which I may never give you the privilege of understanding?”
I just finished packing the remaining Thanksgiving leftovers in my fridge, washing the dishes, taking out the garbage--I’m wiped! I’m sure you are, too. Life has a way of doing that to us unless we’re incredibly intentional. You'll have to be intentional about today’s Thanksgiving exercise . . .
Today's thanksgiving exercise showed me that it’s a whole lot easier for me to take inventory of my closet and to keep track of the state of my bank account than to know the privileges and position that belong to me in Christ. Isn’t that crazy?! . . .
Even if you’re not a teen, I encourage you to take this mini Blazing Lies Test from the book Lies Young Women Believe, by Nancy Leigh DeMoss and Dannah Gresh. It won’t take but two minutes. Then—and even more importantly—read these twenty-two Truths to Set You Free! and let us know which one spoke to you.
"The lies about submission and authority as well as the role of women really wreaked havoc in my marriage. I never imagined that what seemed like normal teenage rebellion and acceptable feminine independence would break my husband’s spirit in the first few years of marriage."
You did it! Yesterday was the thirtieth—and final—day of the True Woman Make-Over. How do you look? I wouldn't be surprised if you feel uglier now than when you started . . .
It’s been a few days since I drove to the nearest polling place, cast my vote, and then claimed my free coffee at Starbucks. It’s also been a few days since I kneeled and prayed as fervently as I prayed in the days leading up to the elections.
If you’re a teen; or a mom, youth worker, or friend who wants to help teen girls engage in a process of renewing their minds with God’s Truth, this interview would be great for you to hear!
It’s not your responsibility to fix all the problems of the needy in the world. But God has called you to be sensitive to the needs of those that He’s put into your sphere of influence and to open your eyes and be available to minister to their practical needs.
Sometimes pressures come at you so fast it seems like you can’t think straight. Learn to develop a biblical, sound mind so that you can think clearly no matter what is happening around you.
The desire itself may not be inherently wrong. The problem comes in when that desire becomes a demand and we find ourselves giving in to the temptation to fulfill it in an illicit way . . .
If you attended the True Woman ’08 Conference, would you be willing to take a short survey? The Woodfield Chicago Northwest Convention Bureau is interested in your experience . . .
If your children's hearts are to please the Lord and to make choices that are based on the Word of God, then they won't just conform to a list that you’ve come up with, but will become difference-makers in their culture and in their generation.
One of the killers of the faith of Christian young people is that they do not see that their parents’ faith has joy in it. Your kids will most likely reject your religion if it is a joyless religion.
The greatest freedom in life comes when you're under the control of the Holy Spirit. That's when you can really enjoy life and healthy relationships in the Body of Christ.
To be modest is to know how to be appropriately embarrassed, to be discreet, to be reserved, to see yourself as you really are, to be ashamed if your attitudes or dress were ever to cause dishonor to Christ.
You don’t leave the house with your clothes on inside out, but when it comes to modesty, that’s what you need to do. First, work on the inside—on your heart—then let that be reflected on the outside.
As women, we can be either a great blessing in the church, or we can do incredibly great damage. We can make the gospel believable, or we can cause people to turn away from Christ.
One trap we can fall into is thinking, “I’m going to be like that woman if it kills me.” The realization that you cannot do what God has called you to do by yourself is one of the greatest discoveries you’ll ever make . . .
Through a repentant heart and a teachable, humble spirit, all of us can learn to acquire those skills and disciplines we need in order to be the women God wants us to be.
So often, we just say whatever we think, especially when we’re with
people we know really well. We just let down our hair, and we’re not so
conscious about what we’re saying . . .
This woman has a different attitude about work because she sees the
purpose, meaning, and motivation behind that work. It’s love—love for
others and love for God. Her love for God makes her willing to work
with her hands in providing food, clothing, and cleanup around her
house.
Your good works ought to first be done at home, ministering to the
needs of your family. Then as God gives you time, opportunity,
available resources—or in a different season of life—take those gifts
and abilities and expand them.
A godly wife inspires a man to be worthy of her devotion. He rises to
that because he knows he has a woman who is an asset, not a liability—a
woman who supports, encourages, and helps him in every way possible.
Did you know that each Saturday from now through November 29, Moody Radio, American Family Network, and other Christian radio stations will air an hour-long special from the True Woman ’08 Conference? This Saturday’s program (October 18) will feature Pastor John Piper’s message on “The Ultimate Meaning of True Womanhood.”
I can tell you this—the Proverbs 31 woman didn't get there overnight, and she hasn't yet arrived. She's a woman in process. She's a woman who, like most of us, often finds herself taking three steps forward and two steps back.
Many of you signed up—and should have received—the first day of the 30-day True Woman Make-Over. I thought it would be fun to post this “make-over” on the blog so that we can talk about what we're learning together . . .
After applauding for Jesus
Christ, approximately 6,000 women signed the True Woman Manifesto and flooded out of the conference
center—back to their homes, churches, and communities. We pray and believe this conference may be the catalyst
God uses to spark a counter-cultural revolution.
Here’s a summary of this morning’s panel discussion, where Bob Lepine interviewed Carolyn McCulley, Mary Kassian, Holly Elliff, Karen Lorritts, and Barbara Rainey. I especially like Bob's last question, when he asked each woman to “mentor” the women in the audience for sixty seconds and tell them anything they wanted.
Steve & Vikki Cook [“Before the Throne of God”] wrote a song especially for the True Woman ’08 Conference titled “Truly Yours.” We will introduce the song to the conference attendees in about twenty minutes, but wanted you to have the opportunity to listen to it ahead of time.
How I wish I could choose to trust God once and for all and never again have to wrestle with this. But Hannah’s life shows that dedication is tough, and surrender is ongoing. How could she pray this kind of a prayer? Because she was God-centered . . .
If you’re among the many who have been encouraged by Joni’s life, would you send her a birthday card as she celebrates another year of life this Wednesday, October 15?
Who knew a lunch line could be so fun! The Gettys are performing a mini-concert for us with some of their new songs for kids, while we're trying to accomplish a miracle and . . .
As far as we can figure, over 3,000 of you are streaming the LIVE video feed. If you’re listening with a group in a church, we’d love to hear from you!
Since I’ve been employed at Revive Our Hearts, I’ve struggled to understand why, as an organization, we place such an emphasis on biblical womanhood. In light of eternity, what's the big deal? Well, I think I finally get it!
I’ve posted a couple pictures from this morning, and I wanted you to know that two guest bloggers will be joining me this weekend! You should start hearing from Tim Challies (blogger for www.Challies.com) and Carolyn McCulley (blogger for http://solofemininity.blogs.com/) in just a few short hours.
We can’t wait for you to arrive tomorrow, ladies! (We’re excited about the 750 of you who have already signed up to join us online for the LIVE feed, too!) If you think of it, pray for . . .
Knowing what to bring (and not bring) can be, well, daunting. I’m going to pack tomorrow night, and I thought I’d help you get started on your packing list . . .
Just a reminder that we are not taking any walk-ins at the conference as we are over capacity. If you want to sell or get a conference ticket, you will need to do so before the conference on the True Woman ’08 Google group . . .
Just a heads-up that the website will be unavailable for a couple of hours beginning at 6 a.m. ET tomorrow, Tuesday, October 7. Check back soon to see the new look and features!
If you're flying into O'Hare Airport and need a ride to Schaumburg, we've got an easy, inexpensive suggestion: the True Woman '08 Shuttle reserved exclusively for True Woman attendees. If you're thinking a taxi might be cheaper, I'll save you the trouble.
Earlier this month, Nancy Leigh DeMoss and Carolyn McCulley were interviewed Live on "Talking it Over with Janet Parshall." Listen to this hour-long program to learn more about feminism and the church, and the True Woman ’08 Conference.
"Help your children see the beauty of God's creation and thank Him for it" . . . "Whenever you see or hear about someone in need, take time to pray about it with your children" . . . (If you don’t have kids, this list is still worth reading and implementing in your own life!)
Here’s an opportunity you won’t want to miss. Fern Nichols will be leading times of prayer at the True Woman ’08 Conference. But you don’t have to wait until then—or even be there—to benefit from her insights on prayer.
I’m about to head out the door to eat dinner with Nancy and the team, but I wanted to jot you a quick note and thank you for your sweet spirits. I know many of you were disappointed that the national women’s conference filled up so quickly, but you have shown real trust in God through your gracious responses . . .
Although we can't squeeze any more women into the convention center, we don't want you to miss out. Learn how we’ll bring this conference directly to you through a “LIVE” video feed and more!
What a great way to start a Monday. As I walked into the office, my
eyes were assaulted by hot pink and orange. Pink and orange polka dots,
ribbons, flowers, signage, and over 3,000 pieces of candy. The occasion? . . .
I recently asked Joni Eareckson Tada ten questions—questions about the
True Woman ’08 conference, about true womanhood, and about her
marriage. You can watch the entire behind-the-scenes interview now, or just read a condensed version here . . .
This woman has had it all—even praying with the President of the United States in the oval office. But when she thinks back to her greatest accomplishment, she says it's the fact that God called her to be a wife and a mother. Learn why . . .
It’s possible that I would have entirely missed Oprah’s recent endorsement of Eckhart Tolle’s teaching on A New Earth, if it hadn’t caused a stir in my workplace at Revive Our Hearts . . .
Learn why they do not consider music the most important aspect of Christian worship, what they’re after when they write a new hymn, and best yet (in my sappy opinion), how they met and fell in love . . .
Have you heard? Nancy and the Revive Our Hearts’ team will be hosting an ROH Conference in Houston in just over a week. As PowerPoint Operator Extraordinaire . . .
