Finding Meaning in the Monotony
Have you ever wanted to quit being a mom? Or maybe just go on a really long leave of absence?

Today I have a devotion running about the day I almost gave up on being a mom. If you haven't read it, be sure to click here and then be sure to come back cause I've got a give-away you don't want to miss!

It was a really terrible, awful, hard day. So hard that I sat in a corner and cried. And yet, it brought me to the end of myself and that was a good thing.

When I finished crying, I sat down to do some work and happened upon a story about Andrew Carnegie that completely changed my perspective as a mom and as a child of God.

Andrew Carnegie was the wealthiest man in America in the early 1900s, so wealthy that he employed over 42 millionaires. When asked how he developed these men to become so valuable that he would pay them that much money, Carnegie explained that “men are developed the same way gold is mined. When gold is mined, several tons of dirt must be moved to get an ounce of gold, but one doesn’t go into the mine looking for dirt — one goes in looking for gold.”

I’d been buried in the dirt that day. I was lost in the monotony of motherhood and felt like my days had no meaning. My discouragement and feelings of failure as a mom left me so disappointed in myself. And I was convinced God felt the same way about me.

I started wishing I had a gold-miner in my life who could see beyond my mistakes and find the gold in me. That’s when God whispered to my heart, “Renee, I am that gold-miner. You are the one who is so critical of yourself. You are the one who focuses on your faults. But I see the gold of My image in your heart, and I want to bring it to the surface so your kids can see Me in you.”

As I sat there trying to process what God was whispering to my heart, stories from the Bible started flooding my thoughts helping me believe that God really does see beyond who I am to who I can become.

That day God used His thoughts to give me a new perspective – of Himself and of myself. Then He challenged me to look for ways to transfer that perspective to my children.

It’s easy to get buried in the dirt of discontentment, disobedience and discouragement. You may even be thinking, Where’s the gold in it all? I wondered, too. But after reading Carnegie’s story and hearing God speak to my heart, I wanted to become a gold-mining mom.

As I thought about the gold I wanted to see in my children, character traits of Christ such as patience, kindness and contentment came to mind. I decided to make a list of golden attitudes and actions and look up Bible verses we could learn together. Then I made gold nuggets by balling up foil and spray-painting them gold.

In the following weeks, each time my kids showed a golden attitude or action, I’d reward them. When they saved up enough nuggets, they’d get a special treat. We also found new character traits and Bible verses, wrote down ideas to live them out and started making them part of our family devotions.

It took time for me to embrace a grace-based parenting perspective and let God's new truths sink in. But I was so excited about having a spiritual focus as a mom. I started getting creative and about finding time in the midst of my busy days to get into His Word and get His word into me. And as I did, He used His thoughts to re-shape mine.

God’s Word became a part of our everyday lives as He taught me to take my eyes off of my children’s habits and focus on their hearts. Not only did it change my kids’ attitudes and actions, it changed me, too. For the first time in months, I was excited about my role as a parent. God had given me a new perspective, and a whole new sense of purpose as a mom!

Lord, thank You for not focusing on the dirt in my life but seeing beyond who I am to who I can become. Help me believe that, receive that and give it away to my kids, my husband and my friends. Help me look at their hearts and encourage the glimpses of You that I see in them. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Portions of this post are also in my upcoming book, A Confident Heart.
Copyright 2011. Baker Publishing. All rights reserved.

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Purpose-Driven Mom Gift Packs

2 for 2: Two of you will receive two gift packs
One to keep and one to give away that include:

My Purpose-Driven mom message on CD and my "Mining for Gold in the Heart of Your Child Character Chart. My favorite busy mom's Bible tool — the GoBible® .

Be sure to click here to find out more about the leading pre-loaded digital Bibles! I love this amazing resource for busy women and moms who want to get into God's word and get God's word into us! I don't make a dime on it, but I'm so excited they are offering a 15% discount and free shipping to my P31 friends and cyber sisters through the end of this month!

It'd be a great gift for Mother's day, graduation, Father's day or birthdays.

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To enter to win, click on the word "comments" below this post and tell me which one of the GoBibles you'd want to win, (I have a couple to choose from) and let us know who you'd give your 2nd gift pak to. Winners will be announced next Monday morning.

To find out if you win, be sure to sign up for email updates in my sidebar, friend me on facebook or include your email in your comment. Otherwise, I won't know how to find you.



483 Comments:

Blogger Amy said...

Thanks so much, Renee for the wonderful devotion today. Last night wasn't too peaceful in Mommy-toddlerhood land and I really needed to hear this! If chosen, I would enjoy the GoBible Voyager because even though she dislikes "technical" things I could share mine with my Mom since it is larger type. The second one would go to a dear lady at our church that is a single mom - widowed - with three toddlers under the age of 4. She has been such a blessing in my life by making me be more thankful that I still have my husband around to help out even on night like last night. Thanks again! Amy M.

Anonymous Margaret said...

Thanks for the encouragement. I could so use a plan to be more purposeful raising my boys.
I'd love the voyager go Bible. I'd give teh second pack to my dear friend Robyn who I don't get so see often enough.

Margaret

Blogger heartafire said...

Loved the devotion, both here and at Proverbs 31.
I would choose the GoBible Orignal if I won!
The second one I'd give to my best friend...

However, after reading that first comment, I'd love for Amy to win, just for the sake of the widow with 3 toddlers!!

Thank you for your ministry.
evemnash@yahoo.com

Anonymous Liz said...

I would love the Go Bible Voyager. My nineteen year old brother is visually impaired. I did not know such a wonderful product existed. Being nineteen, he is into "techie" gadgets, and loves the Lord. I would love to get one of these into his hands.
lizfriesen@cox.net

Blogger Michelle said...

What a perfect devotion for moms. This was me yesterday, Monday, Sunday, .... What a wonderful reminder that we are nothing without GOD. Thank you for helping me remember to give my worries, frustrations, mommy moments over to GOD. There are so many people I would love to give this gift pack to. I am in a MOPS group and there are so many of us who have the tough days. I will give this to a friend who shortly after finding out she was pregnant, was told her husband was being deployed. Since then, they have been reunited they are stuggling to reconnect and parent at the same time. I think the books would be a tremendous help to keep her going.

Thank you!
MC

Blogger Lauri said...

Thank you for this post. I needed it. Been having trouble with my 9 yr old daughter. :(
I would love to have the Voyager for me as well as my sister. My sister has lost her way with God & the church.
I have sent you a friend request on FB as well. See you soon on there. :)

Anonymous Rachel A. Nicholson said...

Thank you!! I am a mom of six- ages 18-18mos. And head to the doctor for a double check of if I am or not. "Pink Slip" tends to weigh on my mind. I would share with Diana- mother of 3 boys and 1 girl and homeschools them. I am sure she could use the extra encouragement. As for which GoBible- I enjoy surprises!! Thanks again for such a great devotion!! Rachel A. Nicholson

Blogger Tiffany said...

What a great devotion and post. We compare ourselves and expect so much of ourselves, it's easy to lose focus based solely on what we assume is the reality of other families.

I love the Andrew Carnegie quote. You do have to go in looking for gold, and to know that God already sees the gold? That's powerful.

The GoBible Voyager looks amazing (NIV). I would offer the second to my best friend, she is continually giving up her free time - when she gets some from her 3 +1 on the way kiddos - to take care of her Mom (battled cancer and now a strange fainting disease they can't figure out) her step-Dad (alzheimers) and her Dad (lung cancer). Did I mention she NEVER turns anyone down that needs help or needs someplace for their kids to go? Or needs someone to pick up their kids? Or take them to practice? Talk about a lifesong as a witness, she has it. A tool/resource to get some quick encouragement throughout the day would be perfect for her.

Blogger djo0723 said...

This is exactly what I have needed to hear and I can't tell you how much I appreciate how much you have made me see that this is not about how I can help my boys but that with God all things are possible and with His help I will make it through these years. Thank you so much for this.

Deanna

Blogger djo0723 said...

This is exactly what I have needed to hear and I can't tell you how much I appreciate how much you have made me see that this is not about how I can help my boys but that with God all things are possible and with His help I will make it through these years. Thank you so much for this.

Deanna

Blogger djo0723 said...

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Blogger Kimberly said...

Good morning! This mornings devotional encouraged me incredibly. Being looked at as the mom who has it all together is not easy because I am far from having it all together. What you see on the outside is not always what is on the inside. Being blessed with 1 child or 7, as I am, requires God to be in control. I have forgotten that and needed the reminder. Thank you. If I won, I would give the 2nd pack to my sister. The Voyager looks amazing in that you can even look up topics! Thank you for the encouragement!

Blogger Tammy said...

How many times I've felt like a failure and wanted to give up! Thank God that He is able to fill in the blanks that I've left in raising my children! I would like any of the Go Bibles, but I think the Voyager is the one I would choose. I'd give the second pack to my oldest daughter who is about to become a mom for the first time.

Anonymous Anonymous said...

I loved & needed your devotion this morning. The oldest of 5 is leaving for college & as we lovingly call him our "guinea pig," there are so many things I wish I could go back & change.

I would love this Voyager. These are new to me, but it looked very fun & interesting.

I would give the 2nd one to my friend Stella. She has 2 girls and both are disabled. One mentally & the other severely physically disabled. She does it every day with such grace & love that I stand at awe watching Jesus act & love through her hands & words. She truly is amazing, but could use some encouragement in her daily grind. :-) Thanks for the chance!

Cindy F.

Anonymous Anonymous said...

I love God!!! His timing is so perfect! We had one of those mornings with our 11 yo son that left me running to God and He answered by sending your encouraging message! We have 6 children at home from 2 1/2 to 11 years old. One biological, 2 adopted and 3 foster children that we believe God has brought to us to adopt. My husband and I just looked at each other and said we need help reaching their hearts...oh, God is so faithful!!! I'd love the go Bible Voyager! I have 3 dear friends that are also foster/adoptive parents that would LOVE this resource so if i was chosen, I would give it to one of these families. Thank you for your servant heart! Love, Kim kcschoonover@hotmail.com

Blogger This Joyful Life said...

Thank you for the encouragement. I am always encouraged by P31 devotionals and love receiving them in my e-mail each weekday!
If chosen, I'd love the GoBible Voyager b/c it has extra space for other downloads and I do not have an MP3 for music - it'd be great to have my fave. worship music and the bible in the same place.
I'd give the 2nd packet to my sister-in-law, Heather who just adopted a 2 yr old that she had been fostering. She is also a newly-wed and her hubbie will most likely be heading to Afganistan in the next month.
Blessings! Angie
e-mail: jlovero1@yahoo.com

Anonymous Anonymous said...

Great devotion - I can totally relate. I'd love the Voyager one... I'd give the other one to my best friend. Thanks. pamthomp@cox.net

Anonymous Kellee said...

Thank you for the encouraging words this morning. I love your idea of the 'golden nuggets.' I would love the Voyager Go Bible, and I would share it with my long distance girlfriend, Jen. She has just started going to church regularly for the first time in her life, and is a working mom with two little boys, just like me!

-kelleeknaub@yahoo.com

Anonymous Anonymous said...

Thank you for your devotional - coming at a time when I needed to hear it! I would enjoy the original GoBible, and I have a friend who would enjoy the other....she is struggling with motherhood as well right now.

Thank you
Diana ddartharris@comcast.net

Blogger blessedmom said...

Thanks Renee, for this encouragement. I need to focus more on the gold in myself and my children. What a great idea you had for doing that, with the nuggets! I would really like the GoBible Voyager (NIV). I would give the pack to my niece who is a newly single mom. She and her son could really benefit from finding the gold in the dirt they are digging through right now.

Blogger Unknown said...

Thanks for the reminder to bring something so simple and basic as the day to day raising of our kids before the Lord. As we contemplate God's leading in deciding whether to move our family of 7 clear across the country, our lives are heavy laden with big issues and it has been so easy to forget about something so basic in my prayer life.

The pressures of trying to sell our current home, homeschooling my 5 kids, working part-time,and running a household with a husband who works more than 60 hours a week on average has left me feeling like turning in my pink slip lately as my kids also seem so out of control with so many things taking us out of the norm.

These resources would be a great encouragement for me, but also for a dear friend who is also in the thick of raising three kids in the midst of way too many life challenges.

The original option would be what I would choose. jenniferroskamp@gmail.com

Anonymous Brenda said...

This sounds like exactly how I felt last week and feel like a lot. Thanks for the encouragement.
I would like the original GoBible and would probably give the extra one to my husband or son.
gemz4him@gmail.com

Blogger Unknown said...

Renee, AMEN! Some days and many times in those days I just take a deep breath in and exhale as I close my eyes and cry out to the Lord for His help and strength. My husband and I are raising 5 boys and now 1 little girl and I can’t count on one hand how over the years I have gone to my husband with tears in my eyes or choked up because I thought there was something wrong with me and my mothering skills. I can’t count on one hand how many times I have said to him, “I quit. I am not doing this anymore.” And yet in those times it was God’s quiet and gentle voice that would get me through that very moment. Or my husband’s thoughtful, encouraging word that would give me strength to carry on until he got home from work.

Thank you so very much for this thought provoking yet encouraging devotional today. I will draw strength from it… especially this part, “I pray that You would extend Your right hand to sustain me; Your grace to strengthen me; and Your wisdom to lead me.” AMEN!!! AMEN!!!!

If I am selected, I would select the GoBible Voyager and give one to my sweet sister-in-christ, Holly. She's a wife and mom of 3 young boys who most often won't come to church. Her hubby doesn't come to church at all. It's a spiritual battle every week for her. What an encouragment this would be for her. Blessings to you!

Blogger Unknown said...

Thank you so much for blessing the lives of so many women. Thank you for reminding me that He is everything I need to parent our 4 beautiful children 2,4, 6 and 8. Blessings to you and the ministry. Thanks for being so authentic. If I win, I would like the original and would give one to my niece who is also my best friend Theresa

Blogger Aimy said...

Renee, thanks so much for these encouraging words. The title alone was just what I needed. God bless you for your continued obedience to Him. It's amazing how parenting makes you feel the triumphs of life and the failures all at the same time but you are right, our God "shields us, sustains us, and stoops down to make us great" in His own power. Thanks again. Aimy S.

Anonymous Anonymous said...

Renee
Thank you so much for sharing this today...
As a mom with 3 children ages 7, 6 and 4.. one being a special needs child... the day to day can be very difficult at our house....
Sometimes just not feeling like I can keep going... and God gives me the strength..... I love my kids so much and want to be all I can for them....
Please pray for me.....that I can be the mom that God wants me to be for my kids...
I love the Voyager or Original Go Bible......


Chrissy

Blogger b blessed said...

Raising 3 sons never gives me a dull moment! It is a challenge to get them to release the energy they have in a possitive way. I would love to have the Voyager Go-Bible. I would give the 2nd one to my friend who has just lost her younger sister to cancer and really struggling with this.
You have blessed my life and many others, Thank you. Be Blessed, b
wbschut@mtcnet.net

Anonymous Wendy S. said...

I just love getting your 'Encouragement for Today' e-mails. More often than not, when I open one up, it speaks to me about an issue I'm currently dealing with! Thank you so much for your encouraging words. :) I would love to win the GoBible Voyager...it looks like a wonderful tool to have. And I would give the second pack to my friend Amy, who is a great mom, and who I've also shared your encouraging words with many times! Thank you again, Wendy wjsnyder@alum.luc.edu

Anonymous Leigh F. said...

I would love the Voyager. I have never seen these before! I would give the second gift pack to my mom.

Blogger Unknown said...

Renee-the email address is gods1son.onhorizon@verizon.net

I really, really needed your devotion this week! I have 10.5 year old twin girls (that I call opposite twins!) and a 9.5 year old son who is going on 45! It's only Wednesday, but it's been a long week. Thanks so much for your uplifting words!

I was just mentioning those GOBibles to my boyfriend the other day. I would be thrilled with any of them if I won :)

Anonymous Becky said...

Your devotion could not have better timing- I sent it out to all my Bible study gals because it spoke so strongly to what we were discussing last night. (How to stay plugged in to God as your power source when somedays you just feel like you are going non-stop). I would give the second pack to a friend from Bible study who is amazing- she is a young mom with 2 boys (age 2 & 6 mos)who is going to school to become a nurse and her husband works rotating shifts. She also just found out her cousin (another young mom) was diagnosed with terminal brain cancer and is trying to find a way to get down to Texas to help her out. She truly is a giving, caring person- being Jesus' hands and feet. I want this more for her than myself.

Blogger Unknown said...

Thanks for blessing women everywhere with these encouraging truths. I have four beautiful children, 2,4,6 and 8, and in spite of appearing to have it all together, I sometimes want to lock myself in my room. I know though that in His strength, I can do just what He's called me to do in parenting our children. Thanks for the reminder that when I fall down as a mom, I need to fall on Him. If I win i'll share with my niece, who is also my best friend. I would love the original or voyager. Blessings, Theresa

Anonymous Lorraine Furtner said...

When I have felt like that, I have felt so alone which only added to the feeling of failure. Thank you so much for having the courage to share your true feelings and God's mercy along with it! Lorraine I would choose the GoBible original. My e-mail is furtner_jl@hotmail.com

Blogger Unknown said...

Amen, amen and amen! We are absolutely weak without God. Thank you for this devotion and at the right time! I'm sick with bad allergies, my youngest daughter has double ear infections, my oldest daughter has a sore throat and my husband has a bad high ankle sprain!!! :) But I am making it through with the Lord's help. I'd love any of your products and I would share the other with my best friend. Thank you. Cathy (catpt98@yahoo.com)

Blogger Kris said...

This was a great devotion, and I could completely identify with it! Phillipeans 4:13 comes to mind imediately, reminding me that I can do ALL things (even mother/homeschool these 4 blessings) through Christ who strengthens me! Thank you for sharing your gifts with us, and for helping keep our eyes fixed on him! I love that Go Bible Voyager, and if I were to win, I would give the other one to my dear friend here, who encourages me constantly, even hen she is running on empty. Thank you again, bless you!

Anonymous Bonnie said...

My kids are past toddlerhood into the tweens. I've struggled, but thank you for a wonderful lesson! It's not too late for me to adopt this strategy, and I plan to use it! My children need me now more than ever, and I need God's peace and strength to do my best! I would love to win you gift pack, and the GoBible I would most like to have would be the NIV version. But if that's not available, I am open to becoming familiar with another version! Peace and love to you, in all that you do to spread God's love and message. Bonnie M.

Blogger Christene Crowder said...

I would love to win the Voyager GoBible! I was an empty-nester and "inherited" a tween 10 months ago. I have been in tears--actually SOBS-- daily! Thank you for hearing God's words and faithfully sharing it with others who have been trying to do it on their own.

I would share the second pak with my daughter who just celebrated her 1st anniversary!

Blogger Amy said...

This devotional was so good for me today! I would enjoy the Bible Voyager. I would love to listen to this while I go for my walk and it looks like you can download some favorite praise & worship songs too! I would give the second one to my sister as she is always listening to encouragement books on her ipod while exercising. This would be a great tool! Thanks.

Anonymous Heather R. said...

What an incredibly timely devotional - for moms with kids of any age. After drinking in the Truths of the devo today, I was immediately reminded of a dear friend of mine, her daughter and grandson dealing with a possible prison sentence. Let's talk about that feeling of failure and smallness....

I love the idea of the GoBible - and would give the other to this broken Mom trying desperately not to quit and to keep above the turbulent waters.

Your wisdom and generosity were much needed today - thank you.

Anonymous Jodi said...

Renee, I am just sitting here crying I am one huge puddle.... It is like your words are what is in my heart, only for some reason I can't feel God saying I am His gold. I press on each day knowing I am going to have this break through. I've got a 4 yr old and a 2 yr old, and I am amazed at how quickly things go south, seems more and more each day. I love my kids, and I wanted to be the mom God created me to be, it just hurts so bad to be in this spot, even as I write this I am asking God,"when do I get that moment of feeling you?" If blessed with his gift I'd like the Voyager, and I'd bless my sweet friend Dena who is a single mom, in the middle of the teenage years storm.

Anonymous Gwendolyn said...

Ireally enjoy your Proverbs 31 Ministery,it has helped me in soo many ways.Not only do I enjoy it I share with my family and friends! If you were to choose me for the GoBible Voyager I know it would inhance my Spritual growth. I can take it everywhere I go, I have a friend she is really going through tuff times right now, depression is trying to set in and I do all I can to keep her ecouraged in GOD'S word!I know that the GoBible Voyager would really help her especially when the enemy comes to her thoughts she can just pick it up and it help her stay focused and realize whatever we are going through we can find it in the WORD of GOD. I know as well as myself this would be a great ministering tool for us both|! Thank you again for the Ministery you have and may GOD continue to bless you in it!

Anonymous Anonymous said...

Ever since I found EFT several months back, the daily devotions have helped give me the courage and inspiration I have needed daily. My husband and I are recently adoptive parents to a beautiful daughter and son. And most recently have taken my father in due to major illness. My days are filled with appointments for everyone else but myself. But when I log on most every morning I go to EFT first. Today's really hit me, helping to encourage me that God does have another plan for me, being a new parent, especially to 2 special needs children which require more daily maintenance than I had ever imagined. Thanks so much for the encouragement.
A new mom in Ohio. (P.S. I have a dear sister-in-law that I would give the second gift pack to) (jholt@windstream.net)

Blogger Kimberly said...

I would give the goBible Voyager to my neighbor who will be having her 4th child any day now. I think she would need it more then I would. I would keep the other second pack. Your words are very encouraging to me as a mother of 4 and a home school mom. There are many days that I wanted to quit but the Lord has been there for me everytime. - Kimberly

Blogger kim said...

Thank you for the words of encouragement. My little toddler is now a teenager and the feelings of quitting have changed but still rear their ugly head! There are moments in the day that I think my 3 blessings would give me a pink slip but thankful that I KNOW the one that is really in charge!!!!

Blogger Unknown said...

An awesome tool! I'd love the GoBible Voyager. I struggle daily with feeling inadequate as a mom - I'm an older mom and patience wears thin quickly then I feel so bad for not showing the characteriscs I want her to have. As far as a gift - I would give to my friend Jennifer - she has two young daughters and her husband's job keeps him away quite often.
Thank you so much for your insights and guidance.

Anonymous rachel said...

Thanks Renee. I am a mother of twin toddlers and there are days I want to quit. :) I'm glad to know there are other Christians with the same "Mommy" struggles. Your devotional is just what I needed this morning after dealing with a tantrum first thing. To be honest, I probably would not use any of the GoBibles as I am not too much into technology, and prefer to read the Bible as I am more of a visual learner and need to see it to absorb it. However, I would pass on one to a friend who has been struggling of late and listens a lot to the Christian station and the other to my sister who has been growing spiritually. Thanks for listening to God and sharing what you have learned. Rachel. (tete5@att.net)

Anonymous Kristi said...

Thank you so much, Renee! I needed to hear that today. I have a son, 9 and a daughter, 5. This is the hardest job I've ever had but the most fulfilling and rewarding, all at the same time. God is so gracious and even when I mess up He gives me the strength to say I'm sorry - which is very difficult to admit to a 9 year old who has always thought he knew everything anyway. :-)

I would love to win the Voyager GoBible. I had never heard of them before. I'd give the other one to my sister, Tracy. I've seen Christ work in her life over the past few years and I really think she would love one.

Thanks again, Renee, for all you and Proverbs 31 Ministries do!

Kristi

Anonymous Anonymous said...

This is great! I would love the voyager Go Bible. I would definitely give the second one to my mom. She and I are both raising young kids and I know we would both benefit from this!
Thanks so much!

Blogger Julie said...

Great devotional today. I would pick the NIV version of the Voyager GoBible. Who wouldn't love the extra features. I would give the second one to a single mom in my bible study. She's a student and full time mom of three.

Anonymous Anonymous said...

The Go Bible Voyager looks fantastic! I would love to share the second one with my mom. She has adopted young kids in recent years, so we are both going through this together.

Thanks so much!
Becky rahastings@juno.com

Anonymous Anonymous said...

Wow, your devotion today was exactly what I needed and was definitely a "God thing" for me. I am a working mom of two and many days are tough and I seek strength, patience and grace from God so that I might handle these difficult tines well. I fail quite often. I would love to win your gift pack and although Id love any goBible, if I had to choose I'd pick the Traveler. I'd love the opportunity to give the second gift to a mother of five whose husband died in a car accident recently. Times are very hard for her and made harder since she is legally blind and at least one of her children has special needs. Our church is reaching out daily to help in many ways. My email is hejgejmom@bellsouth.net. Thank you again for your encouragement today. Holly Johnson

Anonymous Brandie said...

Renee, I so needed this today. Lately, I have not been a very good mommy and have been questioning why I chose to become one. I have seriously thought about quitting as well. Not that I would, but it is so hard! I don't think I have ever done anything this hard. Raising a 6, 3, and a 1 year old is a task. Just getting out the door so I am not late for work in the morning is nearly impossible! We do have good mornings, but there are the ones that just get to me and all I want to do is sit in a corner and cry. I need a plan and I need help getting that plan! If I were to win, I would give the second copy to my friend Angie and for the GoBible, I love a good surprise. Thank you Renee!

brandiecolbert@yahoo.com

Anonymous Anonymous said...

Thank you for your devotional. I have had days like that a lot. I have 2 kids, one 7 and one who is 4. My 4 year old is very very strong willed and most nights feel like a war. I work outside of the home til 630, my husband leaves by 530, by time I get home and make dinner it's time to get kids in bed and all they wanna do is spend more time with mommy. I would love to win the goBible any version. If I won I would give the second one to my cousin who has 2 older children that are very active in after school activities. My cousin is active in her kid's school and is always on the go so I'm sure she would also love receiving this.
Frogmullins814@aol.com

Blogger Jessica said...

I would like the GoBible Voyager and I'd give the second pack to my sister in law who just recently got guardianship of three beautiful children (18months, 6yrs & 7 yrs old). She and her husband have tried for years and have not been able to get pregnant. A family member knew of a lady who was going to prison and had nowhere for her three children to go, so she thought of my sister in law and they welcomed the children with open arms. Although it is an answered prayer, it is often very trying and exhausting for them. From none to 3 lively children! Lots of adjusting and training. This will be her first Mother's Day and she is truly thrilled to be a mother and is enjoying God's blessings.

Blogger L said...

Thank you for your sharing your insight. It was just what I needed. When my kids were toddlers, I was physically exhausted, now my two oldest ones are teens with my two younger ones coming up behind them and I am emotionally and physically exhausted. I feel like I mined for dirt with the two older ones all those years but maybe I can start mining for gold with my younger ones. My teens will benefit as well. It is so true I have to believe what God says about me and who I am in Him first b4 I can reflect that to my children. I pray God will help me to be more purposeful in the years I have left. I would love to give your resources and the original or whichever go bible (NIV) to my friend who is homeschooling mom of 5, 4 of whom are foster kids she adopted. Her kids are young with one sweet sweet 13 yr old who just loves being in a stable home.

Blogger dannermom said...

I really needed this devotion this morning. This is my second week back to work after having my 3rd child. It's been rough getting everyone ready and out the door. I like the GoBible Original - I think the bible stories are neat and we could listen to them in the car as I try to get everyone to there correct place in the mornings.

Anonymous Linda R. F. said...

I am the mom of two young boys (4 & 2). They are incredibly busy, energetic boys.I love them but I have actually been ready to quit many days. Your devotion was a much needed reminder to me that I haven't been praying like I should about being a mom. Thank you so much for this devotion. I like the GoBible Voyager best. I would share mine with my sister who is a mom of a toddler as well. She is the greatest about praying for me and we can talk about the ups and downs of mommy hood:) Thanks for such an awesome giveaway.

Contact: lmorr613@hotmail.com

Anonymous Anonymous said...

Renee, what a great devotion. Thank you for your honesty. It has encouarged me! There have been many a day that I wanted to hand in my own pink slip. Only because I have been trying to do it all, instead of letting God work through me to do. The last couple of days God has been bringng Scripture to me that is reminding me to surrender and stop trying to be Him.

I would like the voyager and I would surprise someone with it!

Blogger Holly said...

Oh I would love this so much, I have never seen one of these before, how neat. The Original one would be fine. I am so worn down, I am a Mom to 5 kiddos ages 11 to 4 and my husband is on his 4th deployment right now. Some days I seriously have NOTHING left to give and have been trying to turn it all to God. I have turned in my pink slip so many times now. Then the Mom guilt eats you alive. Thank you for the devotion on this. Also, I would give it to my friend Teresa who is a fellow military wife with 7 kiddos. We help each other through rough times.

Thank you so much for sharing your post. As a mother of 4 small children there are times when I have thought wow I am not cut out or this. And The holy spirit then feels me with peace and whispers into my heart that GOd wouldn't give me more than I can handle and when times get tough I pray for Gods help and peace. I can say that I went threw hard times about filling overwhelmed But one thing I remind myself is how honored I am that God trusted me to raise these 4children because they ultimately belong to him. My children have their days and I can say I have mine but growing Christ I have learned he is just a call away. I can say I give him all the glory because it is threw him and his help that I am the mother that I am. I would really love to win the voyager audio bible seems so helpful. I would give the second one to my mother because since I stay at home and not make any money I'm not able to do much for my mother and I really want to bless her. I would give her the gift to say thank you to her for as a small child giving me the best gift which was the gift of salvation and directing on the path to having a relationship with my heavenly father. Thank you so much and God bless you and your family.

Blogger Jamie said...

Thank you for this perfectly timed devotion. I am struggling right now with my daughter (and she is only 4 1/2). Just as you said that you sometimes didn't like being a mom - I love her, but sometimes I don't like being her mom and I can't stand to feel that way any longer. I need to find the best way to mother her and love her so that we can have a good relationship.
As for the GoBible - I suppose that I would probably choose the Original. The Voyager sounds very nice, but I don't really need to have room for downloading other stuff. I would probably give the 2nd one to my sister - she is a believer, but so busy that I think she would benefit from something like this too!
Thanks again for these daily devotions!

Blogger Heather said...

I loved your devotion today! I am forwarding to my 20 year old niece. She is a fairly new single mom with a beautiful 2 1/2 mth baby girl. I think those words of wisdom you wrote will encourage her. I try to encourage her every day and let her know that she is doing a good job, that being a mom is a learning process full of blessing. In fact, she is the one I would give the other to if I win. The voyager traveler would be great. Thanks so much for your ministry! (hsykes1@gmail.com)

Blogger Unknown said...

Your devotion encouraged me the first time I read it years ago and today, it speaks to me in a new light! Thank you for allowing Him to work through you.

I had not even heard of GoBible before this, so any version would be a blessing :) I would share with a neighbor mom.

Anonymous sarahking@metroelectricsupply.com said...

So encouraging to read this today! Would love the Voyager if I win...other I would give to my best friend to encourage her. Glad to have found your blog!

Anonymous Lyndee R. (Lyndee22@hotmail.com) said...

Thank you so much for being willing to be used by God in sharing your experiences as a mom. Some of the same things you mentioned are the things that I struggle with. I was brought to tears when I read the part about God telling you he wanted to be the gold-miner. I felt like he was speaking directly to me. I can't do it myself either, and it's nice to know I'm not the only one. God bless you and your ministry!

Anonymous Anonymous said...

Wow, what an awesome devotion....I would love the original...and I would give the second one to my son's assistant teacher at school... She gives and gives to the kids - praying over their chairs in the morning before school. :-)

Anonymous Christina said...

Thank you for the encouragement to all of the moms out here. I have 2 children, my husband travels a lot for work; and we just recently decided that I should go back to being a stay at home mom. I love being a wife and mother; but it can be a challenge when you feel like you're doing it alone sometimes! That encouraging word is a wonderful tool to remind me of the importance of what I'm doing. I'm not being ineffective! So thanks again!

If I'm chosen; I think I would enjoy the GoBible Voyager. I would give the double portion as a Mother's day gift.

parkschristina@hotmail.com

Anonymous Karen said...

Thanks for your devotional today. We've had an up-and-down struggle with one of our adopted children who has a severe attachment disorder and I have felt like quitting a lot lately. Your devotional has helped me get back on track. God's Word is the one place I can always find encouragement when change seems hopeless in the situation with my son. He's 14.
I would love to have any one of the GoBibles. The voyageur is great b/c of the rechargeable batteries and I like the verse finder feature. I would give the second one to a dear friend who is somewhat overwhelmed with homeschooling her 4 young children, with one more on the way,and is having to move away soon :( In spite of her own busy schedule, she is always willing to do anything for anyone else. She is such an encouragement to me.

Blessings,

Blogger Ruth said...

Thank you so much for this devotional! I love that only when we come to the end of ourselves can God do in us what he wants to. It is incredibly freeing!!
I would love the voyager, and I would give the other one to my best friend who is a fulltime mom to 2 and a part-time student. Thx for all your encouragement.

Blogger Unknown said...

What wonderful encouragement to mothers in all stages! My four children are now 21 and up and all in all, the good days outweighed the bad. I remember those "pink slip" days and feeling like I had to be the only mother who ever considered throwing in the towel. The Lord had to show me over and over that my purpose wasn't to be a perfect mom, but an obedient one, running on His grace and not my own determination. Motherhood is treasured journey.
I would give the Voyager GoBible to Helga, a dear 84 year old new Christian who is legally blind. She is so anxious to learn Scripture. She is German, and would say, funtashtick!

Anonymous Anonymous said...

I'd like the GoBible and I'd like to give it to my friend who is busy with work, church and family.

Blogger Hohrein Family said...

Wow! You hit me on the head with a frying pan! I love how our Lord works! I have felt like "quitting" many times. My husband and I have two little girls and with him being in the military, there are often times when he is gone a lot and for extended periods of time. I joke that I didn't sign up to be a single mom. Thank you for the encouragement for today. I will, through God's guidance search for the pieces of gold and brush away the dirt in our girls.

I would give the second pack to my co-worker and friend with 7 children. The Voyager would be a great addition to my spiritual walk.

Thank you Renee!

Blogger MOM2 said...

I love what you have said today, it was very benefical for me. Thank you. I would choose the GoBible Voyager, because of the bible in a year plan it has, I have always wanted to try to accomplish that. If I were to win the gift pack, I would share it with a mother in my MOPS group having a rough time and it a mother of a 3 year old. She has battled cancer and just found out yesterday they found another tumor on her thyroid, this after beeting breast cancer last year. Thanks so much!! I love sharing 31 Proverbs daily message with my friends!

Anonymous Lyndee R. (Lyndee22@hotmail.com) said...

I forgot to add which GoBible I liked. The GoBible voyager was the one I liked best. This would be great to get "more of his word into me" like you said! :) If I won it would be hard to choose who to give the other one too. There are so many women in my life who would love this! Thanks for all you do!

Blogger Grave Dancer said...

Wow.."focus on you child's heart not their habits..." that's good stuff, and I love the gold nugget idea! Thank you for sharing an honest and open look into your struggles of motherhood. I have been having some myself lately-and I know Father God wants me to have peace, as He is taking me into the deeper things of Him. I would love the Voyager GoBible. I would gift the other to my neighbor who is a single mom to 3 girls...the Lord has given me mighty ministry opportunities with her and her daughters lately-so it would be an amazing gift!
Thank you so much-God bless!

Blogger THobbs said...

Thank u for the encouragement to stay at go
E mommies!! We need it. My husband is a resident physician who works crazy long hours, we are 600 miles from the closest family, I have a 2 year old, a 1 year old, and expect our 3rd to arrive at the end of October....talk about overwhelmed!!! I would use the original GoBible that is preset with searchable verses....and would give the 2nd gift to another reidrnt wife who is struggling in finding contentment being at home with her children. God bless!

Anonymous Robin said...

Thanks for the amazing devotion. I really needed to hear it today. Yesterday was a long day! I would like the GoBible original if I win. The second one would go to a dear co-worker of mine who turned me on to your site when I needed encouragement the most even though she is going through a rough time right now herself. Thanks!! Robin

Blogger A Journey For Life said...

So needed this devotion first thing. I have a newborn and 2 year old. Living on little sleep my day started way too early and I am trying to find strength and peace I need to be a Godly mother. Having a hard time trying to find time now too have time with my Bible isn't easy between feeding, diapers, toddler energy and my tired attitude. I have never heard of a GoBible, and I can see how this would be a great tool in addition, I guess my choice would be the GoBible Voyager. I would share this with my mothers Bible study group and give the other gift to my friend who has been here for me helping me and who also struggles with not having a husband around much do to their jobs that take them away for days at a time. Us mom's were talking about taking sick days but how impossible that is.

Blogger Unknown said...

Thank you SO much for the wonderful devotional. I lead a group of homeschool moms and would probably pick a name out of a hat to see who gets the second pack!
Jody
thomandjody.scott@gmail.com

Blogger Natalie Burnett said...

I love busy mom devotions. It is so nice to know that I am not the only one!
If I am chosen as the winner, I would love the GoBible Voyager! What a great tool to have while I'm working out or taking a walk. I would give the second pak to a dear friend of mine. She accepted Jesus a year ago and is growing and florishing like nothing I have ever seen. After having a number of miscarraiges, God blessed her and her husband with their second baby 2 weeks ago. She has turned her life around in so many ways and she's become my inspiration.

Anonymous Anonymous said...

Thank you for this devotion. As a mother of two boys under 3, this devotion spoke directly to me. I would give the second one to my sister-in-law, who also has two children under 3.

denise@lci-lineberger.com

Blogger Unknown said...

What a great devotion today. My youngest child is headed off to college in the fall so my days of being a mom in the sense of how I have been for the past 21 years are changing. I will no longer be needed for the everyday mom things. But my relationship with my girls is changing into a fun and positive friendship. I am still needed as their "mom" from time to time, but they are now considering me a friend. I love that. I have always prayed we would be friends and we would be close when they became grown women. I haven'be been perfect but I have tried to show my girls how to be Godly women by being a Godly woman.
If I could have a GoBible it would be the Voyager. What an awesome tool! I spend a lot of time commuting and it would be great to be able to hear the word while I ride the train every day. I would share the mom package with my sister. She is an amazing mom. She is struggling as a single parent but she is constantly praying and asking the Lord to help her be the mom He wants her to be. I love encouraging her with little gifts for herself and reminding her how wonderful she is as a mom and as my sister.
Thank you for the devotions. God bless. Robin - robin.s.saxton@gmail.com

Blogger Unknown said...

Loved the devotional!

If I won I would like the Voyager GoBible. I would give the second pack to my co-workers daughter, she could really use the encouragment right now as she is expecting a second child and is facing a lot of resistance from those around her.

Anonymous Anonymous said...

Hi Renee

I received so much from this devotion today. As tears fell from my eyes realizing someone feels the way I do and struggles with what u struggle with. My life is very busy... As ours all is ... But I struggle really hard to make god and spending time with him each morning when that is what I need the most so the voyager bible would be most helpful to me and I would give another one to my friend Cheron who told me about proverbs 31 ministries because it has really blessedy life!!! I asked to be ur friend on fb but just in case my email is melaniesuria@yahoo.com

Anonymous Melissa Ong said...

Hi Renee,

I'm just a 21 year old girl and I'm so glad to stumble upon your blog through Proverbs 31 emailing list! I find great encouragement through your blog though I'm not a mom yet! Let this blog continue to touch various precious lives of all different ages.

I'd love to win a GoBible Voyager all for my mum. I believe this GoBible Voyager will help her to listen to God's Word wherever she goes- in her workplace or simply doing housechores at home. The other one I'd like to give to a neighbour, church member and a good friend of my mum who has adopted and takes care of a spastic kid whose parents have left her since she was borned. I believe GoBible Voyager can be a tremendous blessing to her too as she is always on the go- always fetching and waiting for her precious kid class to finish, she can pop this and hear God's Word and other's personal downloaded songs/sermons while waiting.

Blessings,
Melissa Ong
melissaong_90@hotmail.com

Blogger RebekahAN said...

I am absolutely not picky. I feel any gift given is a blessing. Id give my second 1 2 my bf Sabrina. She has 4 lil children & struggles w/the time 2 get w/God. I believe she could use this & would 2 her fullest!

Blogger Unknown said...

Loved the devotion this morning! If I win I would like the Voyager GoBible and I would give the other pack to one of my co-workers daughters she could really use the encouragement right now. She has one toddler, is expecting and is facing extreme resistance from people close to her.

Blogger Crystal Melissa said...

Thank you for your devotion - I am a mother of two young ones and I do struggle with being a mom. I work full-time, then there are church activities, friends, family events, and my husband all needing my attention and I do want to QUIT sometimes. But it is God's Grace that keeps me going and His wisdom that helps me to prioritize - AMEN.

I would love the NIV version of the Voyager GoBible. I have two wonderful friends who are also mothers of toddlers and I can't decide which I would give the second one to so I would give one to each of them and maybe buy one for myself - I love these ladies that much!! There is nothing like having friends who know and share in my same struggles!

Blogger RebekahAN said...

I am n no way picky, Renee! Every gift given is a blessing. I would give my second 1 to my bf Sabrina cause she is a mother of 4 & struggles so much w/findn the time w/God she desperately needs. I know she could use this & would use this gift 2 her fullest!

Blogger stonemama said...

What a great devotion today and I love your blog! I have been feeling very discouraged lately and your words spoke volumes to me. Praise the Lord! I would love the GoBible in any form (like the oOiginal best) and would give my 2nd pack away to my best friend who has always been a blessing to me. She has a 3 year old son and in the process of adoption. What a great baby gift this would be!

Anonymous Heidi said...

What a great perspective to be reminded of. So often I try to do it all and forget that I really need God to get through my days. When I'm focused on Him my days are much better. I'd like the original GoBible. The second would go to my best friend going through a lot of heartache right now. Thanks!

Blogger Carolyn White said...

Renee, Like so many other moms this morning, I woke up tired and discouraged. I've been a mom for 20 years - oldest is 19 and youngest is 3 - and I still don't feel like I'm "doing it right". I'm going to cling to God's promises - and just take one step at a time. I'd love any GoBible - we farm and it would be awesome to have it with me while I'm waiting in the field!

Anonymous Anonymous said...

Thanks for the wonderful words of encouragement today. I love the Voyager GoBible. Great product!! The send gift, I would give to a dear mom in our church who I'd raising twin teenage boys alone with many health problems of her own. She could really benefit from this. God Bless!
Amy Pitman
Sajhpit@yahoo.com

Anonymous Anonymous said...

Your devotion was exactly what I needed today! If I won, I would like the Voyager. I would share the second one with my daughter, whose husband is in the military. Between that and chasing a 10-month-old, she could really use a Bible-On-The-Go.

pkchevier@yahoo.com

Anonymous Judy said...

I loved this devotion. I've been struggling with being the mommy I want to be to my girls (5 and 8) lately. Our son passed away in August and sometimes my grief is just too overwhelming to have anything left to give. I praise God that He has kept us all close to His heart during this time, but there are days that I just want to hide. I have an hour commute to and from work and the GoBible Voyager sounds like a good way to be able to start and end my day. I would give the other one to my best friend who has fallen away from the Lord in the past few years and who needs encouragement to get herself and her son back to Him.

Judy

Blogger kg said...

I just wrote a very long commet about my daughter and I's journey for the past two years after findind out my husband of 18 years was cheating on me and picked the other woman who was also married and the pain my 9 years daughter and I have gone through and how your gobible would help give me the tools of our Lord to deal with her 5 week visit with her verbal abusive father this summer. Anyway my commet didn't post and I don't have the time to rewrite it. I teach Title one Math 6th 7th and 8th grade. I get up st 5:30 to read Lysa'a posts and came across yours today. I would use your gift if you picked my daughter and I as the winners and share the other one with my best friend a single mom of two wonderful boys. kerriegillett@yahoo.com I pray this commet makes it to you. God Bless

Anonymous Anonymous said...

Your devotion was exactly what I needed today! If I won, I would like the Voyager. I would share the second one with my daughter, whose husband is in the military. Between that and chasing a 10-month-old, she could really use a Bible-On-The-Go.

pkchevier@yahoo.com

Blogger JanelleG said...

That you for the devotion(s) that I read at just the right time this morning! Having baby number 3 has really brought me to my knees! (even though she's almost 1!) I'm realizing that I can't do this on my own and need the Lord's help EVERY DAY. I want to feed myself with His Word so that I can be filled and in turn pour out to my family and in turn, those around me. I would love to have the GoBible Voyager, and would give the second to a good friend of mine who is a hard-working mom on-the-go. Thank you for taking time to pour into others! Be blessed!
Janelle

Blogger Ben Shingleton said...

This comment has been removed by the author.

Blogger JanelleG said...

Thank you for the devotion(s) today, Renee! Touched my heart right where I needed it. Thank you for sharing. I would love to have the GoBible Voyager. I know that I need to be filled daily so that I can in turn pour into my family and those around me. I would love to give one to my friend who is a hardworking mom who is constantly on the go! Blessings!
Janelle

Blogger Lacie said...

Thanks for sharing that. I written a prayer that I posted right in front of me at work so that I can be reminded to look past the dirt to find the gold. I would like the voyager Bible. I'd give the second pack to my sister. She is very overworked as a mom with two kids and no family around to help her since she moved 5 states away.

thank you for your devotional.

~~Lacie~~
lacieshingleton@yahoo.com

Blogger Sammie said...

Thanks for your words of encouragement. No one can tell you the daily struggles of motherhood until you become a mother. I often tell my friends as a wife and mother you're like the glue that holds the family together but nobody even notices, not that we need constant praise but it would be nice to be thanked occasionally. You are a wonderful lady, I heard you speak in princeton wv last year you were sick and had forgot your suitcase! You made me laugh and touched my heart, thank you :) I would like to win the go bible original and give the other to my mom.
Sammie ~ taylorsj76@gmail.com

Blogger Kristin said...

Renee that was such a great encouragement for a stay at home mom. If you picked me I would enjoy the GoBible Voyager. I would give the other one to my amazing sister who Loves the Lord and is commited to doing whatever he calls her to do know matte what the cost. She travels a lot and it would be so helpful to her. Thanks again for this generous offer.

Anonymous Jennifer said...

This was just what i needed to hear today. I would chose the Voyager go bible. I would give the other to a recent friend that im starting a new friendship with. We are both determined to do all we can to be good mothers and wives. Thanks to the wonderful content on your blog we can research. Surrendering your marriage was a great place to start.

Anonymous Anonymous said...

Amen you are a blessing and an encouragement.

Blogger Unknown said...

Your devotion today brought tears to my eyes knowing that I'm not the only one who struggles with feelings of discouragement & failure while thinking everyone else has it all together. I have 6 children, 4 of whom I home-school, & every day is a challenge. I'm so thankful for His grace! The GoBible original would be wonderful to have, & I'd give the second one to a dear missionary friend in China who has 7 children. Thanks for sharing your struggles & victories! -- Terri

Anonymous Heather said...

I really needed this devotional today. I feel so irritated and frustrated alot with being a mom. I feel like I raise my voice all the time and I see this starting in my 6 year old. I feel like she and I butt heads all the time. I also have a 2year old daughter. I so long to be the mom with never ending patience and endless self-control. I feel so out of control sometimes and don't want to "ruin" my relationships with my girls. I want to have a great relationship with my girls when they become teenagers!!!! I would give the second set to my sister who has 6 children and home schools them all. Her husband is in school to be a minister and works full time also so they don't haver very much money at all. She would never be able to buy it.

Blogger Kristie said...

Thank you for a great devotion today. Definitely something I struggle with as a mother. I have not heard of the GoBible, but would love to receive one. The second one I would give to my sister who has recently given her life to christ and is a single mother that recently lost her job. I just want her to continue her walk with God and not give up because of her current struggles. Thanks Kristie

Anonymous Rosanne McLellan said...

I thank God for your ministry and the way you've touched my heart. I am on a refocusing journey in so many area's of my life. My family's health, finances, and spiritual issues are a huge burden, and only with God's power can I even be at this point.
I would be so blessed to win the GoBible Voyager or the Original and to share it with my dear friend Jan who also has 2 young children. If I were able, I'd buy them right away. They sound like an incredible tool to keep focus. Thanks again for all you are doing.
Rosanne McLellan

Blogger SF said...

me and my husband were just talking about this last night! he is a stay at home dad, so this is very applicible to even him! this is exactly what we needed to hear. how Perfect is God's timing?!?! we would choose the voyager because with a mom/dad on the go- rechargable batteries are amazing!! i would give the other set to a dear friend of ours

It is so great to know that I am not the only one who has ever felt this way. I love my kids but there are a lot of times I doubt my ability to be a good mother for them because of the choices they make sometimes. Should I win this giveaway I would prefer the Voyager (NIV version) and the second one I would give to my neighbor who is struggling with trying to complete her BA with 2 girls under 4 and is 6 months pregnant. They are in the middle of a move, her husband is in the air force, and many days she finds herself stressed and questioning whether she is doing a good job, or even doing the right thing. She is a great mom and is really trying to raise her children to follow God.

Blogger Tracey said...

Wow I so needed to hear that message today! I have been battling breast cancer and the effects for 2 years now, trying to hold it together for my now 6 and 10 year old boys, and being left by my husband....I do feel like a failure most days! I want to start living life again! I would love to have the voyager and I would give the other one to my best friend who has been by my side from the day I got my diagnosis and is also a mom of 2 whose husband works out of town a lot. Tracey V.

Anonymous Kim said...

I think I would like the Voyager GoBible and the second one would go to my sister-in-law Debbie. She struggles a lot with things in this life and just can't seem to get and stay rooted in Christ. Please pray for her

Wow, I don't always read the devotions but I opened it up this morning and it's exactly how I've been feeling lately. Sometimes I think how can I continue to go on everyday doing the same thing. I feel like I don't do anything right. I work full-time and I'm exhausted when I get home and my little girl just wants to play and have fun but I'm so tired. She will be 3 in a couple of weeks and she is not speaking really well so that has been a big concern for me. She is also a little delayed physically and that concerns me. I just need to let go and let God do the work. I found out I am pregnant again and I am already asking myself how am I going to do it. I really need encouragement. I would love the book and the GoBible Voyager!

Blogger Summer said...

Wow.. With 4 boys, 11, 9, 6, & 4, I stay discouraged & this devotional came at the right time.. I'm so blessed by it.. The GoBible Voyager would be awesome.. I would give the second one to a wonderful friend, who has been there for me every single time I needed to be the "crybaby" about my life.. She has 3 kids of her own, works full time & her husband does shift work.. She always put things into perspective and when I am wrong she tells me .. And I love her for that. She always backs up her advice with scripture. Her walk with God has been the best thing in her life and it shows... She is my inspiration. Thank you for always having encouraging devotionals! Proverbs 31 is a blessing!!

Anonymous Brandi said...

Wow God truly knows what we need to hear and his timing is never an accident. I am a blessed mother of 2 and my wonderful husband is in law enforcement so our schedules are also hectic. I would love the Go Bible Voyager to help improve my daily on the go devotions. The second one I would share with a friend , however after reading other comments I feel so not worthy. Thank you for allowing God to work through you.

Blogger Leann said...

Thanks for the encouragement today, I think this might be one that gets hung on my wall of "You can do it, girl!" reminders. :-) We all need it along the way, and God's timing is impeccable.

I'd be happy with any of the GoBibles. It seems it would be such an easy way to get those spiritual reminders during a long commute, cleaning the house, wherever!

I'd give the second to my best friend, an amazing mom of 8 who on the outside is one of the women we all compare ourselves to that seems to have it all together and then some, but I know she has days too where she wants to turn in her pink slip. I'd love to be able to give her something to show her just how amazing I think she is!

Anonymous Erma said...

Hi Ranee,
I am a great grand mother to 7 beautiful children. I could have used this devotion when I was a young mom struggling to keep going with 5 little ones, a house to run, meals to prepare, etc. I'm sure you know what I mean.I was always sure I was not quite up to the job abd wasn't good enough. I do not want my grand children to feel this way while raising their children. I would love to have the GoBible Voyager for myself to continue and enrich my daily walk with God. The second one would go to one of my young grand daughters who is struggling with the demands of work and a little one. Thank you for your insight. We do tend to try to go it alone, don't we? Thanks again.
Erma

Anonymous Bonnie said...

Thank you for the encouraging words. I would give both of the GoBibles away to my daughter and son-in-love. They are church planters who live busy lives across the country from our home. Both are also trying to bring their temples into submission by training for 1/2 and full marathons. This would give them much encouragement on those days when it all seems too much. They have true hearts for the Lord and are following Him in faith and obedience. I would be thankful and appreciative for any of the GoBibles.

Blogger sdeacon said...

I would really enjoy the Go Bible Voyager. I homeschool my children and this would be a most awesome tool. I would give the second one to one of my best friends who has three children and who practically lives out of her car because they lived such an action packed life. Thank you so much for the encouraging words today. Being a mom is so tuff and I begin my day with a devotion from one you Proverbs 31 sisters each morning. Each of you is a blessing to me!

Blogger Tiffanie said...

Renee,
That was a very timely word. I have often felt how you feel. I'd like the GoBible Voyager because it would help me get into the Word more but mostly because I could share the 2nd one with my mother (who is blind) and that would give her the opportunity to hear the Word of God and navigate it by herself. The fact that it has a rechargeable battery and easy navigation would open a door for her that has been closed all of her life.

Blogger Shelly said...

Great devotion today! I would I would really enjoy the GoBible Voyager. I would give the second to a dear friend who is a single mom. God brought her two lovelies through the miracle of adoption, fulfilling unexpectedly her hearts desire to be a mama. Hers is a truly beautiful story! She is such a role model to me of godly attitude and purposeful living...but I know that she could use a little encouragement!
Thank you for your words of wisdom! Shelly
tmbloom93@netzero.com

Blogger Michelle S. said...

This was a great devotional and perfectly timed for my life right now. Thank you! I would really enjoy the GoBible Voyager and would pass the second one to my dear friend Barbara who has been with me, encouraging me when I needed it most these past several years.

Blogger Michele said...

I really appreciate your words in this topic of comparing ourselves to others and just learning to let us give it (our lives, troubles, worries, etc.) to God.
I feel we need to stop judging ourselves and others and support one another.
I have a friend, Cathie, I would give the second set to because this is an area (comparing and trying to do ALL herself) she struggles with. She is such a strong woman and mom of 4, but lacks confidence in herself. She has made it through so much, I admire her will and grace.
I would be happy and grateful with either bible. Thank you,
Michele
mmwilt@sbcglobal.net

Blogger Danielle said...

Hey girl! What a great giveaway.

Even better is the devo and the post. I still struggle with this alot... especially because I war with my stinkin flesh so much. Thank you for the reminder of the promises in God's word.

I'll defer to you on which one. I'm an NAS person, so I guess KJV would be best. And I would share with my aunt who has cancer and going through radiation and chemo.

Anonymous Julie H said...

I love your post today. It is exactly how I feel many days. I think I would like the GoBible Voyager because I like the text on the screen and I am a visual learner. I would give the give one to a great friend of mine who struggles daily with the challenges of motherhood. I am thankful that God has put us in each other's lives to lift up and support one another. I am excited to see a great tool like this! I had not heard of it before I read your post. Thanks so much!
juliehollabaugh@yahoo.com

Anonymous Anonymous said...

Thanks for the timely devotion. It came at a time that I'm questioning my effectiveness as a mom and needed a reminder that I need to rely on God. I'd love the voyager GoBible. I'd give the second to a lady in our church who is a single mom.
Renea

Blogger Thia said...

I would choose the voyager for myself b/c I am always stopping to look stuff up or cross reference. I'd choose the same for a good friend who is a first time mommy who is always on the go.
Thank you for sharing your experiences and encouraging mothers. We need it!

Blogger Julia said...

Renee, thank you so much for your devotion today. As a work-away-from-home mom of a 3 month old and a 23-month old (will be 2 in June)-and stepmom to a 5 and 11 year old-, I have felt like giving up on more than one occasion recently. I went back to work in April after a 2 month maternity leave and trying to balance everything that everyone needs from me has been very hard. On top of that my almost 2-year old hit the "terrible 2s" very early and it has been such a challenge to figure out how to discipline and correct/teach him.
I feel guilty for not having enough time for my husband, and especially for my little ones.

I would love the voyager GoBible and would share the other with my friend Sara who is a stay-at-home mom to 3 great kids!

Anonymous Anonymous said...

Thanks for sharing this...I think we all struggle with being a mom and a wife too! I homeschool my children and there are days when I really want to throw in the towel...it's usually because of my bad attitude unfortunately! I would love to win this giveaway to help me in my journey. Thanks again. Tammy P. I will friend you on facebook.

Anonymous Melanie McKinley said...

Thanks Renee for this devotion. Just recently I told my husband I wanted to run away and how I can relate to those women that do. My daughters are 11 and 6 my son is 25; talk about drama. My heart breaks for my oldest daughter as she is troubled by mean girls at school and she is such a sweet spirit. Sibling squabbles, dirty laundry, a wayward 25 year old and just promoted working hard husband. Man o Man. If I won the GoBible voyager I would share it with a friend who is not saved. She is a single mom and goes as much as me. What a blessing your devotions bring. Thanks a bunch and Gods blessings to you and Proverbs 31 crew!! Melanie McKinley mamckinley3@yahoo.com

Blogger Tracy G. said...

I loved your devotion today as I have felt that same way many times! I lost my husband when my children were 3 and 5 and there were many days when I wanted to throw in the towel! Thank goodness I never did and my children have grown into wonderful teenagers (although sometimes I still want to trade them in!). I'd love to have at GoBible Voyager, and I would give the other to a good friend of mine who is just starting out in "mommyhood" with 2 toddlers and a full time job, she's certainly got her hands full and I'm sure she has the same kind of day you spoke of in your devotion at one time or another. Thank you for your wonderful insight!

Anonymous Robin Baxter said...

As I type this I have tears streaming down my face. I promised to myself and God last night before I fell asleep that I would show grace to my kids today and stop yelling; and yet I have only been up for 20 minutes and have already lost my cool. I woke up this morning to my 3.5 year old twin boys demanding milk, cereal, their tv show. As I came to conciousness with these "orders" being barked in my ear I felt my irritation level growing and growing until it burst forth with me yelling at them. And I start another day feeling like such a failure as a Mom and Christian. And then I read this devotion that just cuts right to my heart.
If I won I would choose the GoBible Voyageur. I would give the second pack to the only other woman in my church who has young children.
Robin
niborcb@yahoo.com

Anonymous Livie said...

Thank you for the devotion on motherhood. I am the mother to five precious girls but some days those inadequate feelings pop up. Everyone sees me as the mother of all moms but I too have bad days. If I had the gobble I would like the original one. I would give the second one to a dear friend who is a single mom of two boys. She struggles with depression n feelings of being inadequate quite often. I think a gobible could be a great gift n encouragement for her.

Anonymous Jan said...

The voyager looks ideal. Great devotional. Though my kiddos are 11 & 13 there are still times I wonder what I've done wrong. I do recall being frustrated much of the time when they were toddlers. I'm also posting this giveaway link on my blog in hopes that one of my readers will be blessed by the devotional and/or win the giveaway! Thanks!

Blogger melanierainey said...

All I could do was read and cry. Thank you so much. I feel so overwhelmed and today is certainly one of the days I would love to throw my hands up and walk away. I would enjoy the GoBible Voyager and I would give the second one to my sister-in-law who is my best friend. She could certainly use it. My email address is tuppermel@gmail.com. Thank you.

Anonymous Suzie said...

This was such an amazing devotional. With all that went on in my house this morning, getting ready for school - it was just what I needed to build myself back up and make it through the day. Thank you so very much. My Bible goes with me everywhere I go. But the Voyager Bible is amazing and would be the one I pick. Keep the devotions coming - they really help!!!

Blogger Sandy said...

As I read your devotion today I remembered those early years of being a Mom and the "I wanna quit" moments I had. My girls are teenagers now and those feelings still surface as I guide them to becoming independent young women. As a single Mom, God has been been my strength and my courage when we faced misunderstandings and those "brokenhearted" days that young girls endure. I know He will continue to help me be the Mom he desires for me to be. I would so enjoy the Voyager and I would share the 2nd one with my Pastor's wife. It would be so helpful to her when she is out and about and wants to share with people.
I find such encouragement in your writings and look forward to reading more.

Blogger Teresa Garcia said...

I love God's timing. It is like you were writing directly to my heart today Renee. I subscribe to two devotionals and they were both on the exact same topic today. Do you think God is saying something to me? :0D Thank you so much for being vulnerable and sharing your struggles and victories. It gives so many others hope!
If I were to win, I would love the NIV version of the Voyager. The second set would go to my dear friend DeLeslie. She has two little girls and is 5 months pregnant with a little boy. Her husband just deployed to Iraq for a year - so I would love to be able to bless her with some timely encouragement for this season in her life. Blessings!!! Teresa G

Blogger Molly's Mommy said...

I would LOVE the original GoBible because it has all the features I need or would use as a busy mom. If I won, I'd give the duplicate to one of two people (I'd have to pray about it more if I won) either a girlfriend of my mine who believes in a higher power but hasn't decided yet what that higher power is or my sister who has had a challenging time giving into her need for a closer relationship with God because she thinks Christians are a one size fits all & have to be people who "push" the word on others. I think either busy mom would get a lot out of a product like this!

Anonymous Teresa said...

If I win I would like to give the second gift pack to my sister in law. She has an autistic son who, like all children, is wonderful and challenging all at once. I know she would love the original Go Bible. My email is Lindarie@aol.com

Blogger Unknown said...

How refreshingly honest, real and needed today's devotional was on wanting to throw in the "Mommy" towel! I haven't commented on your blog before but felt compelled to share another level of insecurity I've found satan is all to eager to capitalize on...I'm an adoptive mother who's never given birth to nor carried a child. There are thoughts that, "I am illegitamate, and knowledge, wisdom, special Mommy secrets come via the birth canal." I know this sounds crazy, but it's in the back of my mind. When other mothers like yourself get real and provide a glimpse into their own struggles it provides comfort for the rest of us in knowing we're not alone. Grateful!

Anonymous Lea said...

Thanks so much for the wonderful devotion today. It was just what I needed. Being a pastor's wife, working a full time job and being a mom of two is sometimes very overwhelming. Especially lately. I would give my second GoBible to a young mother in our church who is struggling to raise two young boys and keep her marriage going. She needs all the encouragement she can get to keep her strong in her relationship with God. I'll take any of them.

Blogger Momma Shoe said...

As a mother of five children (age 7 and under) I can totally relate to your devotions today!!! Thanks so much for all your encouragement for moms:) I think ALL of the GoBibles look great but the Voyager (NIV or Word of Promise) is super cool! It's hard to choose just one friend that I would give the other pack to...I can think of four great "mommy" friends that would love the gift! But I think I would choose my dear friend, Kim. Thanks for both devos and a chance to win!

mommashoe7@gmail.com

Anonymous Mary said...

I just wanted to say how much this devotional touched me. I feel like this is the story of my life. I have a 9mo. old and another child turning 3 year in June. As much as I love my daughters, there are so many days that I feel like a horrible mother and dislike my life. It is so frustrating to hear others say how much they love being a SAHM when I so often feel differently. Thank you for giving me hope and reminding me to reach out to God for everything!

Anonymous Kristi said...

Thank you for your encouraging message today! About a month ago, I actually googled the words "Burnt Out Mom" and looked at the symptoms that so closely matched mine! LOL. I am a Mom of 5 children ages 9-18m old twins. There are times where I feel that this journey as a stay at home Mom is going to do me in... but I know that God has great plans for us Moms. :) I'd love the GoBible Voyager and I'd give the second pack to my best friend! Thanks so much!

Blogger Johnna said...

God's perfect timing! My heart and head have been dealing with this as of late...I would choose the Voyager go Bible..I would share the other with my dear friend Marlana who has the same struggle as I do!

Blogger Jennifer said...

I really needed that devotion this morning! God's timing is always perfect. I would like the Voyager. I would give the 2nd gift pack to my friend Vanessa because she is such a great friend, and we seem to struggle in the same areas.

Jennifer

Anonymous Anonymous said...

Thanks for the wonderful message. I'd love the Original Go Bible- sounds like a great way to listen... probably would encourage my children to listen as well. I'd share the second pack with my good friend Sara, who is bravely facing the challenge of being a single mom. - Koe - pahlka at gmail.com

Blogger Unknown said...

Thank you for being JUST what I needed this morning!! I had never thought of putting my resignation on pink paper...but I had wondered where I could turn my resignation in!!! :)

The Voyager Bible would be a lovely surprise, no matter the version. I would share the 2nd pack with my dear friend Pam. We've been friends for 30 years, and God has been working so strongly in both of our lives. The enemy keeps trying to keep us from meeting and encouraging one another, but God always finds ways for us to grab a quick conversation or an email.

I'm really excited about looking for the gold in my children. We have 5 and they range in age from 5-21! There's a lot of gold there...just need to go looking!!

Blessings,
Kathy Graff
gteammom@gmail.com

Anonymous Denise Field said...

I really needed this devotion today from Proverbs 31 and then the continuation of it here on your site...I will be Friending you on Facebook as soon as I leave my comment!

If I won, I would choose the GoBible Original both for myself and my dear friend. We both have 4 year old boys who we love dearly...she also has 16 month old twins (boy and girl) and I have a 15 month old daughter. We are busy Mommies who need Go Bibles!

Blogger Heather Goben said...

Renee, what an answer to prayer you are for many women. My children aren't that young anymore, my oldest is 19 and youngest is 14. However I believe the concepts work all the same. Being the parents of teens I believe is just as hard. They know the difference between right and wrong and yet still choose to do what in most cases is ungodly, and worldly regardless.

I would like the voyager (KJV), and I would like to give the second one to my very good friend, and sister in Christ, Hannah Watson. She has 3 of the most amazing boys (5, 3, 1). I get the previlege of taking care of 2 days a week. These boys have helped fill the void of wanting another baby. Hannah has been very gracious at sharing them with me, and I love her dearly for that.

Thanks Renee for all you do and in listening to God in his leading in your life.

Heather

Blogger mom of 5 boys said...

Renee, Your devotion hit home with me today, everyday for that matter!! I am a mom of 5 boys,ages 14, 11, 6, 4 and 2 years old. I never knew the middle child syndrome was a real thing, until now....my 6 year old tries me daily, so that many days I wonder if I am going to make it till they are all grown up without going crazy. I have a hard time finding quiet time to focus, so I would love to have a GoBible Voyager. I have a friend at church that is pregnant with her sixth girl, so I would definitely give the 2nd one to her! Thanks!

Blogger Granny said...

Renee, Thank you so much for your words today. What an encouragement to my heart as a mother and grandmother. I want to pass the message on to my daughter and daughter-n-law of always striving for the goal of their children being able to see "Jesus in them."
I wish I would have had the tools of your messages and the GoBible when my children were younger. A whole new world has opened up to me now that I have a precious grandson and a second chance to share my love of Jesus! I would share both gift packs, one to my precious daughter who has Turners Syndrome and is trying to adopt a child because she cannot have children, and the second with my daughter in law, the mother of my grandson. I would choose the GoBible Voyager for them.
Blessings to you.

Anonymous kay said...

Renee,
I had never heard of a GoBible until your blog. How cool! If I had one, I’d pick the Voyager and would use it while waiting in school carpool line, while waiting for my daughter during her gymnastic class, when I’m in the moment and want to cry “I quit”, etc, etc, etc. I would give the 2nd one to a grandfather I know who is raising his granddaughter. He’s a new Christian who is committed to reading God’s Word every day. It would be such an encouragement for him as he learns to parent with God’s guidance and wisdom as God teaches him in His Word every day.
Thank you for you blog.

Kbittinger01@yahoo.com

Anonymous Anonymous said...

This devotion was exactly what I needed to read today. I am a mom of 3 boys soon to be turning 7, 9 and 11. I LOVE being a mom but the constant bickering and arguing b/t my boys drives me out of my mind crazy. I love your idea of the "gold nuggets" and will be implementing that into our lives. Something has got to change and I know it needs to be me first. I've been doing it in my strength and it needs to be done in His. I would love the Go Bible Voyager and have several friends I can think of to give the 2nd one too but would pray about which one to give it to if I won. Thanks!
Jenny F.
mamajen0720@yahoo.com

Anonymous Anonymous said...

This devotional really touched my heart and was a huge encouragement to me this morning. I feel like I can apply it not only to my life as a "mom", but also other areas where I am struggling with feeling like I don't measure up. Thank you!
I'd love any of the GoBible products, but the Voyager would probably be my first choice. It would be wonderful to give the second one to my sister. She has two toddlers that keep her so busy. The oldest one was diagnosed with Crohn's disease when she was 3 and also has some severe food allergies. Anything that would make her life a little easier would be so appreciated. :-)

Anonymous Anonymous said...

This devotional really touched my heart and was a huge encouragement to me this morning. I feel like I can apply it not only to my life as a "mom", but also other areas where I am struggling with feeling like I don't measure up. Thank you!
I'd love any of the GoBible products, but the Voyager would probably be my first choice. It would be wonderful to give the second one to my sister. She has two toddlers that keep her so busy. The oldest one was diagnosed with Crohn's disease when she was 3 and also has some severe food allergies. Anything that would make her life a little easier would be so appreciated. :-)

Blogger Sherri Smith said...

What a wonderful message today. I remember when my twins were still in their little carrier seats and often did I just sit in the floor beside them crying wondering how I could possibly take care of 2 crying babies. Now that they are older...and fighting...I'm wondering how I can possibly get them to get along. Your message was just what I needed to hear today. Thanks! I'd love the goBible Voyager and I would give the other one to a dear friend who is battling cancer right now with 2 small children and believing her miracle is coming.

Blogger Becky said...

Thank you so much for the devotion today. My children are all grown and I sure could have used this perspective in the midst of raising them! If I win, I'd love to have the Voyager Go Bible and I would give both gift packs to my 2 daughters that are raisng my precious grandchildren.

Becky
bsantos61@sbcgobal.net

Anonymous Leah said...

Renee, thanks so much for the amazing giveaway. I would enjoy the Voyager bible. I would give the second bible to a dear friend Amy that is starting on her voyage of motherhood.

Blogger Nancy said...

I'd pick the Original GoBible. I'd give the second one to my best friend, a very busy pastor's wife & mom.

Anonymous Pam said...

Thank you. I really needed your encouragement today. I am a 49 year old mother of 2 young kids ages 6 & 9 and sometimes I feel overwhelmed. I would love the NIV version of the Voyager GoBible and I would give the 2nd pack to my younger sister who has 2 boys ages 2 & 4. Her husband has been out of work for 2 years and has been attending college full-time, while she is working full-time. They really struggle to make ends meets financially and emotional their are still dealing with loss of their little girl who was still-born in September 2010. If I win, my email address is: mpsmailbox-proverbs31@yahoo.com

Anonymous Holly said...

I recently discovered Proverbs 31 and love it! My life has been turned upside down over the past year and everything I thought was stable and perfect was really very unstable and imperfect! I am so blessed to have two boys. Sammy 3 and Bobby 13 months! They are my life, but I sometimes feel like I am not good at being a mother! I am at times feel like I do not give them enough of myself. I don't want to let them down and I pray that they will find Jesus early and live their lives in his name. I want to teach them this and show them the peace he brings! Through this past year my eyes have been opened and I now know I AM NOT IN CONTROL of anything! I really appreciate the encouragement! I recently started working with underpriviledged and troubled children in our local school. This has really opened my eyes and I love my job. However, it limits my time for other obligations and necessary tasks. I feel I would benefit from the GOBIBLE in many ways. I enjoy learning and studying my Bible and need to work more into my schedule. I could listen to this as I ride the bus to school or on my way home. It would be very beneficial for me! I would give the other to my sister. She is also raising two boys and works long hours. She has an interest in Bible studies but often is not able to attend.

Blogger Tiffany said...

I was so touched by today's devotional! I have been at that exact place in my parenting years and have cried because I knew I couldn't quit. I had a very attached nursing baby who didn't sleep for more than 3 hours for an entire year and also a 2 year old. God has recently told me that I can't Be a great mom in my own strength but through Him. This was such confirmation to me! Thank you! I would love To win a voyeger go bible for myself and an original I would give to my accountability partner and best friend who is a mom in the exact same season as me. Thank you for your ministry!!

Anonymous Peg J. Ribble said...

I so remember those days. Our kids are now grown & have little ones of their own. I think I would give both of the GoBibles Voyager away. One to our neice who's 26 & just found out she's loosing her eye sight. It's hereditary but she has it worse than other family members. The 2nd one I'd give to my friend Kandy that has gotten away from our church. Thanks again for the chance to reach others. Peg J. R.

Blogger Vanessa said...

No matter my prayer this morning or my defeat for the day, your blog is exactly waht I need that day. Thank you for letting God speak through you.

Vanessa

Anonymous Amy said...

Just what I needed today! Mother of two under three and ready for number three to arrive any day...thinking I don't have the strength to do any of this on my own! And how often have I been in that situation comparing the others "outside" to my "inside". Would enjoy the GoBible Voyager. Would love to give other package to a friend who is facing difficult circumstance in own life and also has three on her own. Thanks for the encouragement!

Anonymous Michelle M said...

Thank you so much for your word today. I needed that. I struggle the most with my 16-year-old daughter. We have the classic mother/daughter issue. She thinks she knows everything. I know she doesn't! But I've been praying that I have patience to wait out these years. I hear on the other side can be a wonderful mother/daughter relationship. Just hoping I don't kill her before then :)

I would love to have the GoBible Voyager. I travel quite a bit and it would get me through the times when the traveling becomes so weary mostly because I'm away from my husband and children. I would give the second one to my best girlfriend (I didn't say best friend because my husband is my best friend). She, too, struggles with motherhood. Her son is a freshman in college. It's hard for her to let him go but also still be around for when he needs his mommy. Together she and I pray about being better mothers. We pray about relying on God and not giving into our worries. She's my prayer partner and sister in this battle to become good Christian mothers.
singletarym@washpost.com

Anonymous Pam S. said...

Thank you so much for the encouragement. I have two wonderful teenage daughters that I love dearly, but on so many occasions feel like I don't measure up when interacting with them. Sunday evening was an especially difficult time that when it was all over everyone was in tears. Many regrets over the way I discipline and express my needs/wants for them. If I were so blessed to be selected, I would love to have the GoBible Voyager to help me with my mothering and life journey. I would give the 2nd one to my dear sister who is severly strugging with drug and alcohol dependency. While she has been in rehab, her poor tween daughters are feeling abandoned, lost and rebellious. I pray something like this bible would provide hope, guidance and peace for her recovey and that of her children. May God Bless you for providing such inspiration to all of the struggling moms out there! Happy Mother's Day to you!

Blogger Mirinda said...

The Lord is so wonderful and amazing. Not ONE HOUR ago I proclaimed to my 3 children (that I homeschool) that "I quit". Once again, our morning had been started off with squabbles, fights and tears. I had had it!!

Wouldn't you know that your devotion was the one in my inbox soon after. Love the timing! Thanks for the encouragement :)

Blogger whataboutbob44 said...

Thank you so much for this devotional. I had my "i quit" moment this morning with my 3 children ages 6, 5, and 2 1/2 , and then opened up my email to find this devotional waiting for me. Thank you Lord! :)
If chosen i would love the GOBIBLE Voyager. (Honestly they all look awesome! ) I would send the second one to my college friend Meredith who lives in another town, but has been such an encouragement in raising Godly children and putting the Lord first in everything. Most importantly capturing our children's hearts for the Lord.
Thanks again for sharing your thoughts, insights, and struggles as a mom.
bobmorgan44@gmail.com
Thanks! Morgan

Anonymous Anonymous said...

I really needed your devotion today! I have been feeling like such a failure as a mother lately and am so overwhelmed that I just want to stop everything because I don't know where to begin! You gave me hope that it doesn't have to be that way if I ask for God's help. That is the first thing I'm going to do today! :)

On a side note, I'd love the voyager go-bible and would give the second pack to my Mom, who is a great encouragement to me and inspiration.

crystalbalzer@bresnan.net

Anonymous Barb said...

I am so excited to share your message w/ my 2 young mom daughters(1 is my daughter in law)! They so need to see your golden nugget idea & see how your pink slip turned into YOUR GOLDEN ticket- a surrender slip to God!

Blogger vicki said...

The Voyager, what an amazing idea the GOBible! Love it!!

Anonymous Anonymous said...

I so needed to hear this devotion today! While not ready to quit, I've certainly been feeling stagnant and inadequate as a mom, lately. If I won I'd like the GoBible Voyager and I'd give the other copy to my neighbor who is a stay at home mom of two, that doesn't have access to many resources! Thanks!

Jennifer

Anonymous Andrea said...

Thank you for the transparency into your struggles. As a Mom of 4 children, ranging from a 10 year old tween girl to a 6 month old boy, I can say that I have fallen to my knees many times crying out that I cannot do this!!
He has filled me with such grace, joy, love, patience and rest as I continue to seek Him. I would love the GoBible Voyager because I am always on the go! I would give the other one to my sister who is just coming into a relationship with the LORD. Thank you!
drdresanneman@yahoo.com

Blogger vicki said...

OOps forgot to add that I would give the other one to my sister mom of my beautiful 4 year old niece, she would love it.

Anonymous Anonymous said...

Oops- Barb is : bmet55@aol.com

Blogger Unknown said...

Thank you for this devotion. Exactly what I needed to hear today. I would like the GoBible Voyager. What a great tool! Thanks again for your encouraging words today.

Anonymous Becky Issenmann said...

Renee - thank you so much for your thoughts today! I am a grandma - my 3 daughers have given me 7 grandchildren ranging from 11yrs to 5 months. My 2 youngest daughters have the toddlers and are feeling what you felt and what I felt when I was that age. They would so benefit from your gift. Just last week one called me at 11:00 at night in tears because she felt she was a failure with her 3 year old. They are so open to God's will in there lives as mothers and wives but the daily stess of knowing what to do to bless their children is a struggle. I would say the small gobible would be their choice so they could easily listen while exercising and walking.
you have always been a blessing to me and I am always passing your devotions on to my girls and friends.
Becky I of ohio

Blogger Connie said...

Thanks for this wonderful devotion Renee! I would love to be entered to win your gift packs. I would share my second gift pack with my dear friend Jacque, who is on the go a lot and I'm sure she'd love using the go Bible when she walks. I'd love the voyager go Bible. Thanks for the opportunity to win one.

Anonymous Melanie said...

Thank you Renee for this devotion today. I am really new to your site and actually really new to opening my heart and mind to God. I have enjoyed your devotions everyday for the last couple of months, so thank you!!!! This one today really touched me though because I seem to feel this way every day and always wonder why I can't be a better mom. I have 2 boys, 8 and 5 and feel like I have no control most of the time. I think I was a much better mom with just 1 child but when my second arrived it was a totally different story!!!! I have a girlfriend that has 3 boys and we often wonder what God was thinking when he BLESSED us with our boys. We both try to look to Him for guidance and encouragement but I think sometimes we forget to open our hearts and minds to what he is really trying to tell us! Thank you for being so REAL in your words. Melanie

Blogger Amanda said...

We so often feel guilty for not LOVING every minute of mommyhood. Thanks for you real help and encouragement! I would love the voyager go bible and I would give the second to a sweet mom of two who has to drive one of her kids to all kinds of dr and therapy apts with no CD player in the car!

Anonymous Anonymous said...

Hi Renee - thank you so much for this morning's devotion - it really spoke to me. I have three sons and at times when they don't do as I say or what I want I feel like I have failed in some way or messed up somewhere along the line. But then God reminds me that I should be thankful because my sons are living for Him, I know where they are each day and I am able to see and speak with them...unlike some parents. I am a very busy mom taking the boys to their various events and I have been trying to get an audio version of the Bible but not able to afford it so getting the GoBible Voyager would be great. Of course if I win, I would give the second package to my unsaved co-worker who is a mother of three and is eager to know more about the Lord. Thanks and remain blessed. kdr

Blogger sharon said...

When your post came up under my encouragement for today I knew God was hearing my cries for help. As a mother of 6, there are times I feel like throwing in the towel and feel as though I'd be making more progress pouring my heart out to the wall instead of my kids. I just need to be reminded from time to time that it's not what I do or say that is going to bring about the progress I want so desperately to see in my kids, but it's the Lord Himself that does the changing. I need to be faithful and dependent on Him. I'm so busy home-schooling, being a mom and wife... it leaves not much time for caring for myself, doing things I love, or even getting my devotions in... I think the voyager Bible would be great! I have a very good friend who has 7 children, and I know would love to have one as well. :) She's been an encouragement to me so often.

Anonymous Anonymous said...

As I began reading your devotion, I knew this was intended just for me. I have 3 kids, runa daycare, and yes feel that what I am doing is never enough. I need more time in my busy schedule. What I really need to do is turn to God more and talk to him, thank you for reminding me of this. I would give the gift pack to my mom who was sucha great role model to me.
I would choose the go bible voyager if I was to win! Thank you so much for your devotion today!
Angie
Angie

Blogger Mrs. Becky said...

This comment has been removed by the author.

Blogger Amanda said...

We so often feel guilty about not loviing every minute of mommyhood. Thanks for the encouragement. I would love the voyager GoBible and I would give the second to my friend, a mother of 2, who drives to therapy and dr apts all the time with no cd player in her car!

Anonymous Dori Cox said...

Thanks, Renee, for reminding me to look for the "good" in my children instead of focusing on their attitudes & behaviors. I would love to win the GoBible original; and would give the 2nd one to my best friend, Beth, who is a busy RN mom. Thanks! and God Bless!
dori_cox@hotmail.com

Blogger Sonja said...

Wonderful and much needed Word today. I'm a stay at home mom of two boys (2yrs & 1yr old) having two toddlers running around is stressful enough but the past few months I've been struggling with my identity and purpose. Making it difficult to see Gods plan and adding to my daily stress. This daily devotional has really helped me get past myself to see God in my daily life. I am looking forward to bring His focus and perspective into my parenting. The GoBible Voyager would be very helpful in keeping my mind in the Word.
Thanks again for sharing your heart.

Sonja
Misslogic3126@gmail.com

Blogger Tobi said...

Renee,

Thank you for giving up time from your day to help us with ours. Being a mom is not an easy gig! It is wonderful that as moms and woman we can share our hard times, too often we think everyone has it better, or is doing it right, but then we find out they are human just like us (whew!!!) and we get to grow in the Lord together.

As for the offer, the GoBible Original looks wonderful - handy on my 20 minute commute to pick up the kids from school. I have a friend, Dini, who is a step-mom of two children, growing in her role as a mom and as a daughter of Christ. This would bless her.

Thanks and keep feeding us those wonderful written goodies!

Tobi Lyons
tobiannelyons@gmail.com

Blogger mommieakin said...

Wow, what a timely devotion today. I so wanted to quit mommyhood yesterday, but didn't know who to give my resignation to! I would love the Voyager NIV and I would share with my friend Kaaren who is walking (running sometimes) alongside me as we both parent kids of similar age. Great devotion, great giveaway! Blessings to you.

Blogger suzanne said...

What a timely message for me! Just yesterday I told someone, "I quit!" It's great to be reminded that God doesn't see my dirt, of which there is plenty, only the gold to be found under the dirt. If I won this great prize pack, I would give the other to a friend who is a single mom like me. We need all the help and encouragement we can get!:) The GoBible seems like an awesome resource! I would choose the Voyager.

Blogger Mrs. Becky said...

so enjoy your devotionals on Proverbs 31 email list! If I were to win this gift pak, I would give the second pak to my friend, Vicki. She is the busiest Mom I know! She is the worship leader and praise team leader at our church, she has two young children who keep her very busy, and a husband who owns his own company that includes a lot of travel dates, which leaves Vicki solo parentis quite often. Vicki also ministers to the young adults (college age and newly married) at our church, which means a lot of mentoring time and late night/early morning phone calls from desperate and needy "kids." Recently, Vicki's mother was diagnosed with liver cancer, her fourth cancer diagnosis in five years.
I admire Vicki's attitude of always being there for others and feel that this gift pak would encourage her in her walk with the Lord as she leads others, including her children. I think the Voyager would probably be the most useful GoBible for her.

Thanks for this opportunity!

Becky
konzaprairiemom@gmail.com

Anonymous Katie W. said...

Thanks so much for the inspirational devotion. I am mom to a 17 year old step-son, 3 year old boy, and 1 year old girl. My 3 year old is the very difinition of strong-willed!! Your devotion described my emotions perfectly. How often I feel like I am not measuring up as a parent. Thanks for the encouragement, this weary mom needed it! I would prefer the voyager or the original GoBible. I would give the second to my best friend, my mom.

Katie
kwootenrn@yahoo.com

Blogger Keisha said...

Thanks so much for this. Eventhough I am a new mommie of 3-month old, this is going to help me ALOT! I always pray that GOD will show my husband and I the way he wants us to raise our son.

Anonymous Kendra said...

I prayed this morning that God would help me be a more patient mom..and then I read your devotion. It was like a personal whisper just to me-thanks!
I would love either go Bible.
Kendra

Blogger Unknown said...

Thank you so much for sharing your experience today! I made it through the toddler years in God's hands. The GoBible's are amazing tools for life with Christ. If chosen I would choose the GoBible Original. I wouldnt feel right keeping one and giving one, so I would give both of the away. I have two women at church in mind. One just went thru a divorce and has three little girls to raise. As a single parent I feel for her and I see her struggling and pray that I could take the pain and worry away from her. The second mother hasnt been coming to church in over 6 months. She has two toddlers and was struggling with tempertantrums every Sunday. I feel that she became frustrated and emberrased with her childrens actions. I would like to just share with both of them that they are wonderful mothers because God made them. And God will not ever turn his back on them. Thank you for every heart you have touched today. Sarena B.

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