Girlfriends in God is a beloved daily devotional that has been inspiring and encouraging Christian women for over 17 years. Founded by Sharon Jaynes, Mary Southerland, and Gwen Smith, this devotional ministry aims to build up women in their faith and provide them with practical wisdom for navigating the challenges of everyday life.
The Power of God’s Word
At the heart of Girlfriends in God is a deep reverence for the Bible as the inspired, inerrant Word of God. The devotional writers firmly believe that “every word in the original text of the Bible originated in the heart of God and was breathed into the heart of man so that they could write down exactly what God wanted to communicate.” This unwavering commitment to biblical truth is evident in every devotion, as the writers skillfully weave together Scripture, personal anecdotes, and practical applications to bring the timeless truths of God’s Word to life.
Tackling Tough Topics with Grace and Truth
One of the hallmarks of Girlfriends in God is its willingness to tackle tough topics with grace and truth. The writers don’t shy away from addressing the real struggles and questions that women face, such as doubt, fear, insecurity, and the temptation to conform to the world’s standards. Instead, they boldly proclaim the liberating truth of God’s Word and offer practical strategies for overcoming these challenges.
For example, in a devotion titled “What is Truth?”, Sharon Jaynes laments the growing trend of distorting and ignoring biblical truth to suit one’s own desires. She writes, “Never have I seen Scripture more distorted than I have in the last ten years. It breaks my heart that what the Bible clearly states as wrong is now considered right. And what the Bible clearly states as right is now considered wrong.” Jaynes then exhorts readers to cling to God’s Word as the ultimate, infallible truth, even when it goes against popular opinion.
Building a Community of Encouragement
Another key aspect of Girlfriends in God is its emphasis on building a community of encouragement and support among Christian women. The writers frequently refer to their readers as “Girlfriends in God” and express their deep love and appreciation for them. They also encourage readers to share the devotions with their own friends and to support one another in their faith journeys.
In the final devotion before the ministry’s hiatus, Jaynes prays, “Heavenly Father, thank You for these wonderful women we call Girlfriends in God. I pray You will continue to bless them exceedingly, abundantly, more than they can ever ask or think, just as You promise in Ephesians 3:20. We love each and every one of them. You love them more.” This heartfelt prayer captures the spirit of community and sisterhood that permeates the Girlfriends in God ministry.
A Legacy of Encouragement
Although Girlfriends in God has come to an end as a daily devotional, its legacy of encouragement and biblical truth lives on. The writers have each launched their own weekly devotional ministries, allowing them to continue sharing their unique voices and perspectives with readers.
Sharon Jaynes’ devotions can be found on her website, focusing on topics such as identity, confidence, and the power of God’s Word. Mary Southerland’s devotions emphasize the importance of trusting God in the midst of life’s challenges, while Gwen Smith’s devotions offer a fresh perspective on familiar Bible stories and their relevance for today.
see also: Exploring Julia Bettencourt’s Free Devotionals
Conclusion
Girlfriends in God has been a beacon of hope and encouragement for countless Christian women over the past 17 years. Through its unwavering commitment to biblical truth, its willingness to tackle tough topics with grace and wisdom, and its emphasis on building a supportive community, this devotional ministry has left an indelible mark on the hearts and lives of its readers.
As the ministry transitions into a new era, the legacy of Girlfriends in God lives on through the individual ministries of its founders and the countless women whose lives have been transformed by the power of God’s Word and the encouragement of their “Girlfriends in God.” Whether you’re a long-time reader or just discovering this devotional, there is no doubt that its message of hope, truth, and sisterhood will continue to inspire and uplift women for years to come.
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