Yesterday my friend Lysa TerKeurst was in town to do a taping at a local television studio. In the afternoon, before the taping, I popped over and met her and Holly at their hotel for coffee, although there wasn’t any coffee. Lysa is off coffee and has managed to go on with her life in a meaningful way, but I am not. And I could have used a pot cup. I was in my afternoon slump. But I do want to report that I did not lie down and curl up on the sofa in the hotel lobby, even though I sorely wanted to.
Okay, so then later that evening, my friend Donna at Way More Homemade (who is super on top of things and not only knew about the taping but scored us some tickets) and my other friend Jennifer (that’s four friends I have if you’re keeping tally) and I went over to the studios to be part of the audience and watch Lysa be interviewed and talk about her book.
And she was compelling as always and funny and talked about the kind of stuff that stirs up unnamed things in your heart.
At the end of the taping the host asked if anyone in the audience had any questions for Lysa, and my friend Donna popped up out of her seat. Not to say, “Please Lysa, tell me more about Jesus” but “Where did you get those shoes?!”
And in fact, Lysa did have on the cutest blue shoes you ever did see that matched her sweater exactly and it was not lost on anyone of the female persuasion in the viewing audience. But her shoes in no way took away from her message because when we look at Lysa, we see the Lord. And then her awesome shoes.
Everyone in the audience received a copy of Lysa’s latest book What Happens When Women Say Yes To God. And since I already have a copy, I had Ms. TerKeurst autograph my copy so I could give it away to you!
And it just so happens that Jennifer and I are reading through this book together over here (or click on the little gal with the Yes heart in the right sidebar). We are only on chapter five, so if you’d like to jump in that would be awesome and you would be so welcome.
If you would like to win this book, which I love even though it is challenging me and giving me unrest on some issues (in a good way) leave me a comment telling me what you are saying yes to today.
I’m saying yes to doing less so I can experience more in a more meaningful way – God, my family and my friends in particular.
I’ll draw the winner at the end of the day so I can get this off in the mail to you tomorrow.
* * * * *
We got a winner! Kay Sisk ~ commenter #58, writer of romance novels and self-described small town Texas gal. Congrats Kay!
Paulette says:
I’m saying yes to paying attention to every thought that comes today and casting down anything not true or pure.
May 27th, 2009 at 9:27 am
Abby says:
I am saying “yes” to being STILL and knowing that He is God. Sounds simple, but as a wife and never-at-home-stay-at-home mommy, I am allowing myself to be STILL at His feet.
May 27th, 2009 at 9:27 am
jean says:
I am saying yes to trying to be more patient and not in such a hurry today. I will try to listen to what God is trying to tell me instead of being caught up in my own little world.
May 27th, 2009 at 9:28 am
Leigh says:
I am saying YES to spending more quality time with my family!!
May 27th, 2009 at 9:36 am
Kathy says:
I’m saying “yes” to allowing God to lead me through a tough decision.
May 27th, 2009 at 9:37 am
Jenna says:
I am saying “yes” to spending quality time with my husband tonight!
* * *
I think I just heard him pump his fist in the air and say “Yes!” (wink)
May 27th, 2009 at 9:41 am
Lois says:
I’m saying “yes” to resting in God’s presence today as I face trying life
circumstances.
May 27th, 2009 at 9:53 am
Sarah at themommylogues says:
I’m saying yes to God’s will. And letting go of my own plans. Ok, I’m TRYING.
May 27th, 2009 at 10:01 am
Heather Crawley says:
I would LOVE to win the book. I read her blog and would love to sit down and read more.
May 27th, 2009 at 10:14 am
Elizabeth L says:
I’m saying “yes” to allowing God to lead me instead of me trying to control my world. This will be a true test, as I have to prepare my house for a big graduation celebration on Friday! I have “miles to go” before I open my doors to friends and family!
In this busy, hurried week I need the reminder to stop and thank him for all the good he has provided. I need his calming love.
May 27th, 2009 at 10:15 am
Kelly in Carrollton says:
I am saying yes to cleaning the closet……. sigh. : )
May 27th, 2009 at 10:18 am
Shoe says:
Yes, I’d love to have an autographed copy. I’m in the bible study group studying this book so I own a copy. However, I’d love an autographed copy!
May 27th, 2009 at 10:21 am
Beverlydru says:
I’m saying YES to God. He’s had me in the waiting room for quite some time and He’s called me to “get up” now. Finally!! I’d much rather dance about than sit and wait. It’s a new season- it’s springtime in my heart.
Please just go ahead and send me the book. LOL.
May 27th, 2009 at 10:49 am
Nette says:
I’m saying yes to being the oldest child of my divorced parents and being the one they depend on.
I’ll be leaving my kids with my Mom and taking my Dad to the hospital for a procedure, tomorrow. Mom (bless her heart) offered to do it, but my brother and I are the only ones who can make major decisions, should something go wrong. So, it’s me.
I’m also saying yes to urging my parents once again to stop smoking and take better care of themselves.
May 27th, 2009 at 10:54 am
Pam says:
Today I am saying Yes to trying to understand and have compassion for my grandsons mother. I will pray for her because He leads me to. Only God knows how difficult this is for me.
May 27th, 2009 at 10:58 am
Patty says:
I am saying yes God I release this to you for I need Your help and I can not handle this on my own. I am saying yes God I will help him find guidance in your love and to take You into his heart. He needs You and, yes, I will do what I can to lead him to You.
May 27th, 2009 at 11:01 am
Shannon says:
I am saying yes to spending more time in His word.
May 27th, 2009 at 11:02 am
Bitsy says:
Today I am saying “yes” to baking cookies for my grandfather who recently had 2 heart attacks (don’t worry, they’re oatmeal cookies). God has me in the waiting room, as Beverlydru describes it, and it’s a little frustrating. I keep wondering what He has in store for me, but for now I am just saying “yes” to continuing to care for my family because I think that’s all He wants from me right now.
* * *
I’m saying yes to your cookies Bitsy! ~AM
May 27th, 2009 at 11:05 am
Bitsy says:
Abby, as I was typing the song that came on was Chanticleer singing, “Be Still and Know That I am God”. Yes, He is, amen.
May 27th, 2009 at 11:08 am
Jenn says:
I’m saying YES to God being before anything in my life, even the husband I haven’t met. And I said yes at 37,000 feet to that too.
May 27th, 2009 at 11:16 am
Nikki says:
I’ve heard so much about Lysa. I’m saying “yes” to packing up my house and remaining calm about our move from Houston to SC next month. I’m really nervous about leaving our current church and finding a new one. I’d love to see how Lysa’s book can help me on this transition.
* * *
You are going to love SC, it’s beautiful and the people are incredibly friendly and welcoming. Ask for good things, expect good things and they will be there. ~AM
May 27th, 2009 at 11:16 am
Missy says:
I am saying YES to moving halfway across the country because I know it is where He is sending us. I can’t wait to see what He has in store!
May 27th, 2009 at 11:17 am
Megan (FriedOkra) says:
Lately I’ve been saying “Yes” to staying away from the computer and giving my little ones my full and undivided attention. And it’s been wonderful for all of us.
May 27th, 2009 at 11:17 am
Carrie says:
I’m saying yes to trusting in God for my unborn baby’s life – nothing’s wrong with the pregnancy, I just get worked up during this early stage when you can’t feel the baby move yet.
So I’m giving it over to Him today.
May 27th, 2009 at 11:21 am
Heather says:
From all the comments, it seems this is a book I definitely need right now!
Thanks for your generosity!
May 27th, 2009 at 11:28 am
Donna P says:
I am saying yes to God’s help in leading me to have more patience!
May 27th, 2009 at 11:31 am
Cindy Anderson says:
I hope I’m saying yes to some sleep tonight. I’m exhausted today.
May 27th, 2009 at 11:33 am
Gramee says:
I am going to leave all the difficulties, i am facing and say yes to leaving Jesus in charge, i will cope much better with things that way.
thank you for making me see that today.
May 27th, 2009 at 11:34 am
La says:
I am saying “yes” to just letting go and let God take over. I have other things I need to say yes to but this is the best start I can have.
May 27th, 2009 at 11:43 am
Antique Mommy says:
I love it when y’all tell me a little something about yourselves. It’s really a special kind of privilege.
May 27th, 2009 at 11:48 am
MM says:
I’m attempting to say “yes” to my yucky work situation, even though I’d love nothing more than to stay at home with my boy (soon to be two boys). But the numbers just don’t work and it’s going to HAVE to be a God-thing for it to happen.
So I guess I’m in the waiting room too…
May 27th, 2009 at 11:55 am
Janis says:
I am saying yes to just letting my daughters procastinate their little bottoms off and not nag them to finish end of school projects and preparing for finals. They always come through at the last minute. I am trusting God to let me trust them to do what they need to do without me breathing down their necks.
May 27th, 2009 at 11:57 am
Pat says:
I’m trying to say yes to being less stressed. The biggee things I seem to be able to handle (is that me or God?), but the little things get under my skin… Yes to the little things. So hard.
May 27th, 2009 at 12:08 pm
Tracy says:
I’m saying yes to some board games with my kids! (And no to some ironing…how’s that for a trade?!?)
May 27th, 2009 at 12:21 pm
Rhonda says:
I’m saying yes to rest and relaxation today before gearing up for the next two busy days.
May 27th, 2009 at 12:25 pm
Paula says:
Today I am saying yes to simply “resting” in the midst of all the turmoil and placing my trust in Him.
May 27th, 2009 at 12:26 pm
Margaret says:
Just, yes Lord.
May 27th, 2009 at 12:47 pm
Kate says:
Hello! I am saying ‘yes’ to giving the daughter of a friend my attention. She is going through a tough time and has dealt with bullying all school year, and frankly she’s not my favorite kid!! But she’s crying out for help and attention so I’m saying yes to her.
* * *
I have not been able to quit thinking about your comment since I read it this morning. It’s those “not favorite kids” that are the hardest to love but need it most of all and most need to see Jesus in you. May God bless your efforts Kate. ~AM
May 27th, 2009 at 1:16 pm
Christine says:
I am saying yes in confronting some people I am in leadership with who I believe have lost their focus and put our ministry’s emphasis on the wrong things. It’s pretty obvious, but that doesn’t make it any easier…save for with His help!
* * *
Oh God bless you Christine! I would rather stick a fork in my eye than tackle that one. Proceed with much prayer, caution and humility. ~AM
May 27th, 2009 at 1:26 pm
Natalie says:
I’m saying yes to getting my house in order so the Spirit can dwell more abundantly in my home.
May 27th, 2009 at 1:30 pm
Tater Mama says:
I’m saying “yes” to our toddler’s request for my attention today while my husband takes care of our 3-week-old son. Our older son needs a little extra Mama-time, and today he’s getting it.
* * *
Yay for oldest son and mama time. Let him see your eyes light up at the sight of him! ~AM
May 27th, 2009 at 1:33 pm
Robin M. says:
I’m trying to say yes to being more in the present instead of spending so much time worrying about the future.
May 27th, 2009 at 1:33 pm
Jodie@The Sky Is Only Dark Between the Stars says:
I’m saying yes to the death of my flesh, so that I can say yes to the life that God has planned for me… well, I’m purposing to say yes… haven’t worked out all the logistics yet. This book might help.
May 27th, 2009 at 1:37 pm
Bobbey says:
I’d love to win the book, but if I don’t I’ll still pop back over from time to time to read the blog! Promise!
May 27th, 2009 at 1:42 pm
rhonda says:
Hmm…Several things. Yes to our mission trip coming up in about 12 days (not so much the trip as much the overseas plane ride with my hubby- I am afraid I will have to medicate him, myself or both of us). Yes, to giving my mom’s cancer diagnois and treatment to God…Yes, to enjoying my youngest instead of being annoyed by some of her “personality traits”…oh, I have so much I need to work on!
May 27th, 2009 at 1:45 pm
Robyn says:
Saying yes to stopping to listen to what God might have to say before hurtling forward to do it my way. Also, trying to love people who don’t seem lovable to me but are to God.
May 27th, 2009 at 1:48 pm
Amy says:
I am saying yes to consistency…not in my strength but in His.
May 27th, 2009 at 2:07 pm
Jenni D. says:
I just said Yes to a tuna sandwich on rye.
I need this book because I’ve been in the desert for a couple of years (really, more like 4 or 5) and I know God is working on me on one issue in particular, but I continue to say, “No, thanks!” or “Oh, were You talking to me?” instead of “Yes. Yes. Yes.” to Him.
May 27th, 2009 at 2:15 pm
vickie says:
I am saying yes (or at least trying very very hard) to let God lead me thru a very difficult decision with my mom and trust that I’m hearing Him correctly. (how I so wish I always had the faith of a child!)
May 27th, 2009 at 2:18 pm
Melissa says:
I am saying yes to doing the mundane things in my life and being fully present in them instead of ironing/washing/dishes and wishing I were anywhere else. Since this is the day that God has given me, I will rejoice. After all, we have clothes to wear (and wash and iron), food to eat (dishes to wash), and a home to live in (and clean), and all of these things are blessings from Him. I need to be present in my life and thankful for it.
Thanks, AM!
May 27th, 2009 at 2:25 pm
edj says:
Oh I have been wanting to read this! Pick me! I have a US address, so don’t worry your head about that pesky international shipping cost.
May 27th, 2009 at 2:27 pm
Marcy says:
I’m saying yes to waiting on God for direction on some big decisions.
May 27th, 2009 at 2:31 pm
Shelley says:
I said yes to quiet time and bible study over a nap while my little one was sleeping. Even though we were up some last night because of a nasty stomach virus – and I would have savored that nap…to be honest it was exactly what I needed.
Thanks for the chance to win.
May 27th, 2009 at 2:33 pm
Lesley says:
I am saying yes to a good attitude today.
May 27th, 2009 at 2:57 pm
Pam says:
I’m saying Yes to believing that God has good things in our future.
May 27th, 2009 at 3:06 pm
Alison says:
I’m saying yes to spend some of my “alone time” with God in prayer and Bible study. (No, I’m not reading blogs instead of doing that right now–I start in 10 minutes!)
May 27th, 2009 at 3:34 pm
Julie at Elisharose says:
Awesome! I’m so bad about getting the books I need, but once they are in my hot little hands – I do read them!
I have been saying yes to all those unfinished projects around my house. I have already knocked 3 big ones off my list and a few little ones. I’m halfway through another big one. I feel great and motivated and ready to get them all done.
May 27th, 2009 at 3:43 pm
Kay says:
I’m saying yes to letting myself grieve for a friend over the accidental death of her grown daughter. I haven’t seen the girl in years, nor her mother in about six months, but I still feel the connection we once had and want her know that her loss affects us all.
May 27th, 2009 at 4:26 pm
fuzzytop says:
Oh I can so commiserate with you on the coffee thing…. My doctor told me I have to wean myself off caffeine and it is soooooo painful. Decaf just doesn’t do it.
OK – back on point….
I am saying yes to writing my prayers in a journal. I’ve avoided it for years, but I’m trying to make it a new habit.
Adrienne
May 27th, 2009 at 4:26 pm
Kim says:
I’m saying YES to LIFE!! After 3 years of hell, surviving the break up of a marriage riddled with domestic violence and the loss of friends and family during the process. I found myself again through diligent prayers of dear friends, scripture studying, counseling and the love of my Father in Heaven. He even sent someone to assist me and our children on the next leg of our journey – a new, God loving help mate/soul mate. I am blessed tremendously and feel elated at what He has given me and so want to give back to Him.
May 27th, 2009 at 4:26 pm
Marie says:
I am saying yes to listening to my son while he is unemployed and depressed. That’s all I can do is listen – he lives 3 states away. I am saying yes to prayer for him every single day (have already done so).
I would like a picture of the blue shoes and sweater!! lol
Hugs,
Marie
May 27th, 2009 at 4:39 pm
happy geek says:
I’m saying yes to not being perfect.
My M-I-L is coming for a visit tomorrow and for some reason that sets off the crazy cleaning lady in me like nothing else.
I kinda forget that two small people live here and it’s not going to be perfect.
That’s OK. I think.
May 27th, 2009 at 4:47 pm
Byranie says:
I’m saying yes to contentment with the here and now.
May 27th, 2009 at 5:07 pm
Audrey says:
I am saying Yes to listening to God to guide me in some friendship issues that I am having. I would love to read this book.
Audrey
May 27th, 2009 at 5:10 pm
Aunt Murry says:
I am saying yes to being kind even when I want to stomp on some toes
May 27th, 2009 at 5:15 pm
Shay B says:
I doubt this is the answer you are looking for but I said yes to Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups at lunch today! They were delicious.
On a more serious note. I am saying yes to letting go of the worry and fear that something will go horribly wrong, whether it be the little one I am carrying or job loss or any of those nasty things that are kicking my rear right now.
I would love to read this book and thank you so much for the chance to win!
*Shay B*
May 27th, 2009 at 5:21 pm
Bee says:
I would love to say “Yes” more and pretend not to hear less. Please enter me in the drawing.
May 27th, 2009 at 5:23 pm
Meg says:
I don’t know exactly what I am saying “yes” to right now. I do know that I am stressed beyond belief with a sick child…(not critically, Thank God. But sick enough that he had to be hospitalized and to keep me up at night wondering and worrying)…maybe a refocus is the answer.
May 27th, 2009 at 5:30 pm
JanMary, N Ireland says:
I am saying “Yes” to the fact that I need to get back to the group – I promise to really try this week.
May 27th, 2009 at 5:30 pm
suzanne says:
Oh, what a fun day!! I meant to try to get to your group, but I’ve had too much going on….sounds like I need it in a BIG way!
Suzanne
May 27th, 2009 at 6:10 pm
Debbie says:
Sounds like a fun day and a great book.
May 27th, 2009 at 7:28 pm
Amy says:
I find it interesting that you posted about this today. I too have decided to eliminate all of the extra stuff so that I can say yes to God and my family. Summer vacation seemed like the perfect time to make a change.
May 27th, 2009 at 8:37 pm
Ann says:
I’m saying “yes” to hearing that little voice inside that whispers “no” to all the things I commit to for the wrong reasons. And I’ve already been blessed by this today with an amazing surge of energy that allowed me to prepare a meal for a friend who recently lost her mom (which something I really wanted to do).
May 27th, 2009 at 8:38 pm
katherine from senor elefante says:
i commented earlier from my phone, but don’t think it worked as i didn’t see it…
i’m saying yes to keeping my heart engaged in relationships and my mind active at work. my hubs just graduated from seminary and is looking for a job; we hope to move at the end of the summer at which point i’ll be a stay-at-home mom of two under two. the unknowing makes it hard to live present tense.
May 27th, 2009 at 9:00 pm
Allison says:
I am saying yes to summer break. To my kindergartener and 1st grader moving up to the next grades. To a long drive to the beach tomorrow. To toes in the sand and inhaling salty air. To seeing God in the little things that I often take for granted. To embracing being 45. To so very much.
May 27th, 2009 at 10:18 pm
k&c's mom says:
I am saying “yes” to
May 27th, 2009 at 10:28 pm
Jennifer C says:
I am saying yes to spending more time with my family and less time in front of the computer.
May 27th, 2009 at 10:30 pm
k&c's mom says:
I am saying yes to a faithful, loving, gracious and merciful God who knew that my husband’s cancer would be declared malignant and terminal yesterday. I am saying yes to believing that He has a plan for good in this. I am just saying yes.
May 27th, 2009 at 10:31 pm
Sue says:
I sometimes have been reading the Bible study you are doing but not really doing it– have thought about ordering the book but haven’t yet so would love to win it.
I’m saying yes to being in a Bible study on Wed nite. However, what was making the most difference was when I was reading a devotional book in the a.m. upon awakening. I got out of that habit recently, and I hope to say yes to that again in the a.m. I had never done that–always read my Bible at night when I was sleepy. I still end the day with Bible reading, but I want to say yes to a.m. study.
May 27th, 2009 at 10:34 pm
JoAnn says:
I’m saying yes to trust in the Lord that what His will is will be done – particularly as tomorrow sees me at the Breast Health clinic to determine the outcome of more advanced imaging…. Lord help me to quiet the anxiety I have tonight and the dread I face tomorrow.
May 27th, 2009 at 10:46 pm
Jeanne A says:
I need a new study for the summer when our woman’s bible study doesn’t meet anymore.
May 27th, 2009 at 11:19 pm
Christy Cate says:
I am saying yes to the future God has for me… be it a new job or the same job, a move or a stay, a man or no man, and on and on and on… Go God!
May 27th, 2009 at 11:27 pm
Nancy from Illinois says:
I’m saying yes to the changes that the Lord has brought to my husband and I saying “yes” to adoption (2 years ago); and “yes, Lord” to the work He wants to do in me, as well as in my family, even thought it could be a long haul!
May 27th, 2009 at 11:31 pm
Rachel says:
I sure hope I’m not too late!
May 27th, 2009 at 11:39 pm
momof8 says:
Am I too late? I am saying yes to feeling a little more antique than usual today. It’s all I could think of! Gotta post quick!
May 27th, 2009 at 11:41 pm
deb says:
I said yes last fall when God asked me if I was willing to have my reservist husband volunteer for deployment to Iraq so that some other chaplain could stay home this time around.
I said yes as a matter of obedience. I said yes as a matter of duty. I said yes in the hope that some little boy somewhere could have his daddy home this time.
I said yes by God’s grace alone.
And this is what happened when I said yes to God. It turns out that one yes wasn’t all He wanted from me. Now that I’m dealing with the harsh realities of my decision, every day He asks about my heart: “In spite of the ongoing pain, in spite of My not meeting your needs in the way you thought I would, in spite of My allowing even more pain to come into your life instead of ease or comfort during this time – will your heart still say yes to Me again today?”
I do not know what my answer will be tomorrow. Or any day ahead. But today I said yes yet one more day.
Six months down; six months to go.
By grace alone. Saying yes.
May 27th, 2009 at 11:54 pm
Wendy says:
I’m saying yes to excersise that I don’t want to do. I’m saying yes to letting little annoyances pass. He is working on me, praise Him for his faithfulness.
May 28th, 2009 at 12:02 am
Christy says:
I guess it’s a little late to post but wanted to for my own sake, to document the “yes”!
I say yes to waiting patiently until the Lord allows me to become a mommy, trusting in His loving-kindness, no matter His answer.
May 28th, 2009 at 12:15 am
Kathy Vaughan says:
I’m saying “yes” to less computer time so I have more time with my Lord. (I’m still checking a few favorite blogs, though!)
May 28th, 2009 at 6:02 am
mannequin says:
I’m too late to enter as I was busy saying Yes to getting my spring cleaning over with. I really don’t want to have to toil on my son’s vacation.:0
May 28th, 2009 at 7:16 am
Antique Mommy says:
We got a winner! The contest is over but I would still love to hear what you are saying Yes! to today, this summer.
If you are interested in joining me over at the other place as we read through the book, feel free to come as you are, jump in the middle or come and go, whatever works for you.
May 28th, 2009 at 8:51 am
Lysa TerKeurst says:
Oh dear friend…
I should have totally been a better hostess and gotten you some coffee. And I am so beyond touched that you commented on my shoes.
You have no idea.
I have had such issues with shoes throughout my life— it’s sort of a running joke with people that know me in every day life.
So, today, after reading your kind comments, I officially feel like I have arrived. At least in the feet department.
Obviously, my hostess skills still have miles to go. It was so great to see you. Wish you lived next door~
May 28th, 2009 at 3:46 pm
Donna @ Way More Homemade says:
*Giggle*
Um, I’m saying yes to not buying any new shoes.
Or is that saying no?
I don’t know, I get confused.
Seriuosly, I’m saying yes to trusting Him. It’s an act of volition each day as I walk this road I’m on.
And I’m so excited about joining y’all for real now. I’ve already read through the 1st chapter. Hoping to catch up soon.
Be blessed!
Donna
May 28th, 2009 at 4:33 pm
Donna @ Way More Homemade says:
or, seriOUsly…. as the case may be. This is where you might want to go correct that typo for me. UGH!
May 28th, 2009 at 4:34 pm
Meg @ Spicy Magnolia says:
I’m saying ‘yes’ to letting the Lord change me, to helping me be the wife and mommy He wants me to be.
May 28th, 2009 at 8:14 pm
Linda Richards says:
I love your posts! I just got caught up…I too so appreciate nurses and admire anyone who can take on that roll…the gummy bear – been there!…and I loved the That Face entry.
May 28th, 2009 at 9:32 pm
Jennifer says:
I feel this calling in my heart to read this, so I am buying it anyway if I don’t win. Worth a shot though! Thanks for the opportunity!
May 29th, 2009 at 7:38 am