Compiled by Barbour Staff - 3-Minute Devotions for Women. 180 Inspirational Readings for Her Heart

2013 by Barbour Publishing, Inc.

Print ISBN 978-1-62029-735-3

eBook Editions:
Adobe Digital Edition (.epub) 978-1-62029-979-1
Kindle and MobiPocket Edition (.prc) 9781-62029-978-4

Devotions previously appeared in Daily Encouragement for Single Women, published by Barbour Publishing, Inc.

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Published by Barbour Publishing, Inc., P.O. Box 719, Uhrichsville, Ohio 44683,
www.barbourbooks.com

Our mission is to publish and distribute inspirational products offering exceptional value and biblical encouragement to the masses.

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Most days were seeking out a moment or two of inspiration and encouragementa fresh breath of air for the lungs and soul.

Here is a collection of moments from the true Source of all inspiration and encouragementGods Word. Within these pages youll be guided through just-right-size readings that you can experience in as few as three minutes:

Minute 1: Reflect on Gods Word

Minute 2: Read real-life application and encouragement

Minute 3: Pray

These devotions arent meant to be a replacement for digging deep into the scriptures or for personal, in-depth quiet time. Instead, consider them a perfect jump-start to help you form a habit of spending time with God every day. Or add them to the time youre already spending with Him. Share these moments with friends, family, coworkers, and others you come in contact with every day. Theyre looking for inspiration and encouragement, too.

Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path.

P SALM 119:105 NLT

The L ORD your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing.

Z EPHANIAH 3:17 NIV

Memory is a powerful part of each one of us. Perhaps you can see your father cheering you on in a sports event or you remember your mother stroking your feverish forehead while you lay sick in bed. With those mental pictures comes a recollection of emotionhow good it felt to be cheered and encouragedhow comforting it was to be loved and attended.

Zephaniahs words remind us that God is our loving parent. Our mighty Savior offers us a personal relationship, loving and rejoicing over us, His children, glad that we live and move in Him. He is the Lord of the universe, and yet He will quiet our restless hearts and minds with His tender love. He delights in our lives and celebrates our union with Him. We can rest in His affirmation and love, no matter what circumstances surround us.

Lord, help me remember that You are always with me and that You delight in me. Remind me that I am Your child and that You enjoy our relationship. Amen.

The heartfelt counsel of a friend is as sweet as perfume and incense.
P ROVERBS 27:9 NLT

When you think of the word comfort, what comes to mind? Maybe its a favorite pair of jeans or a well-worn sweatshirt. It might be chocolate or homemade mac and cheesefoods that soothe in a difficult time. Or perhaps its a luxurious bubble bath, complete with candles and relaxing music.

While all these things can bring temporary relief, Gods Word tells us that finding true comfort is as simple as sharing heart-to-heart with a friend. Whether its over coffee, dessert, or even on the phone, a cherished friend can offer the encouragement and God-directed counsel we all need from time to time.

Friendships that have Christ as their center are wonderful relationships blessed by the Father. Through the timely, godly advice these friends offer, God speaks to us, showering us with comfort that is as sweet as perfume and incense. So what are you waiting for? Make a date with a friend and share the sweet aroma of Jesus!

Jesus, Your friendship means the world to me. I value the close friendships Youve blessed me with, too! Thank You for the special women in my life. Show me every day how to be a blessing to them, just as they are to me. Amen.

Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.
C OLOSSIANS 4:6 NIV

Inflection. Tone of voice. Attitude. Maybe you remember your mom saying, Its not what you say, but how you say it. Words not only convey a message, they also reveal the attitude of our hearts. When our conversation is full of grace, even difficult truths can be communicated effectively. But how do we season our words with grace?

Grace is undeserved favor that extends unconditional love to another. Whether youre communicating with friends, family, or coworkers, its important to show that you value them. Put their needs above your own. Communicate truth within the context of love. Show compassion and forgiveness. Demonstrate understanding and an openness to receive their input. Respect their opinion. Rather than striving to drive home your point, try to understand theirs. Seek to build them up. Convey encouragement and hope. Be positive.

When our conversations are full of grace, people will enjoy communicating with us. They will walk away blessed by the love we have shown. Today, in your conversations, extend Gods grace to those hungry to experience His love.

Dear Lord, may I view each conversation as an opportunity to extend Your grace to others.
May my words be a blessing. Amen.

Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.
3 J OHN 1:2 KJV

Twenty-first-century women do everything conceivable to keep their bodies and their minds in good shape. They work out, watch their calories and carbs, and take excellent care of their skin and teeth. On the outside, many women appear to be in excellent health. But what about their souls? What would it profit a woman to be completely fit on the outside and have a sin-sick soul?

Maybe youre one of those women who thrive on staying in shape. Perhaps you even put your external body on the front burner of your life, paying particular attention to diet, exercise, and appearance. As you think about your overall health, consider your soul. Have you given your heart and life to the Lord Jesus Christ? If so, are you spending time with Him? Praying? Reading His Word? These things are necessary for a healthy soul.