Ann Spangler - The One Year Devotions For Women: Becoming a Woman at Peace

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The One Year Devotions for Women: 365 Daily Inspirational Readings

Copyright 2012 by Ann Spangler. All rights reserved.

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W HEN Ron Beers, senior vice president and group publisher, first suggested that I contribute a volume to Tyndales line of One Year devotional books, I balked. It was the last thing I wanted to do. Having written several devotional books already, none of which attempted to cover an entire year, I thought the process would be far too grueling and I would quickly run out of things to say. No, that wouldnt be a book Id like to write anytime soon, I assured him. But Ron graciously persisted, and over time I said a reluctant yes. Now that the book is finished, I want to thank him for suggesting a work that proved to be one of the most enjoyable of my writing experiences. For reasons I cannot explain, the writing came easily, and I never once felt bogged down as I made my way through the year.

I am also grateful to associate publisher Lisa Jackson, who was a great support as I embarked upon this project. I have appreciated her guidance and wisdom throughout. Senior editor Stephanie Rische has been my ever gracious editor, carefully reading the manuscript from first page to last and making many helpful suggestions, along with Erin Gwynne. Thank you, Stephanie, for your encouragement, which is a wonderful gift. And thanks also for the many prayers you said on behalf of my family and me during the writing process.

Thanks also to April Kimura-Anderson, for masterminding the marketing plan and for helping to spread the word about this book.

Finally, I would like to thank my agent Sealy Yates, whose wisdom, encouragement, and kindness I depend on.

Despite how much I enjoyed writing this book, I realize that every book has its share of weaknesses, and for these I take full responsibility, hoping that God will make use of the work despite its failings, leading readers to a life of deeper peace and confidence.

Shalom.

One of the most important Hebrew words in the Bible, shalom conveys the idea of peace, tranquility, satisfaction, success, prosperity, healing, completeness, safety, well-being, and good relationships among people and nations. Rich and multifaceted, shalom sums up all the blessings God gives to those he loves.

Peace. What wouldnt we give to have a little more of it? Peace in our relationships. Peace at home and at work. Peace despite painful memories. Peace in the midst of the pressures and demands that threaten to crush us. Is there a way to find peace in all these areas of our lives? What if we could build a moment of peace into every single day of the year, intentionally opening our hearts to the peace God has promised? What would it be like to live with less fear and anxiety and with more confidence and joy?

T HE mission of The One Year Devotions for Women: 365 Daily Inspirational Readings is to help you take hold of the peace God is offering. This peace is far richer and more satisfying than anything you or I can imagine.

When the Bible speaks of peace, it often uses the Hebrew word shalom. Like many Hebrew words, this one contains depths of meaning that the English word peace cannot fully convey. In addition to the idea of serenity, tranquility, and the absence of conflict, shalom also means wholeness, healing, success, completeness, soundness, perfection, and good relationships. Shalom sums up all the blessings God can give to those he loves.

I hope that as you join me this year, you will become a woman who is capable of enjoying more of the peace God has for you. As his Spirit works in your heart, I pray that God will show you how to spread his peace to others so that they, too, might come to know that no matter what has happened in the past or what might happen in the future, they are safe in Gods keeping.

As you begin this year, remember the ancient prayer God instructed Moses to pray over his people. Although first prayed thousands of years ago in the midst of a Middle Eastern desert, the words emanate from the mind of our eternal God, expressing his heart toward us today.

May the L ORD bless you

and protect you.

May the L ORD smile on you

and be gracious to you.

May the L ORD show you his favor

and give you his peace.

NUMBERS 6:24-26

Ann Spangler

I am leaving you with a giftpeace of mind and heart.

JOHN 14:27

Y OU have probably heard of Stephen R. Coveys book