Does your home need a little lift? Put a candle or a vase of flowers on the table! Little things make the difference.
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Above Rubies Daily Encouragement Blogs
Through the weekly and daily devotionals you can be constantly encouraged in your great role of parenting, the highest career in the nation. You can also stay updated on what's happening with the Above Rubies ministry.
I don't think there is anything more beautiful than a mother looking with adoration at her baby. Even a plain mother is beautiful when she looks lovingly at her child. Jean Millet writes: "Beauty does not lie in the face. . . . Beauty is expression. When I paint a mother, I try to render her beautiful by the mere look she gives her child."
It truly is the expression of our face that is beautiful to the beholder. It is our expression that comes from within that makes us beautiful or otherwise. I am always challenged by the words in Isaiah 3:9: “The show of their countenance doth witness against them.” Isn’t it so true? Our countenance gives us away. It reveals what’s on the inside.
Let’s keep a good attitude. Cast aside all negativity, anger, hurt, bitterness, unforgiveness and let’s fill our lies with the beauty of forgiveness, love, joy, and unselfishness.
2 Corinthians 3:18 tells us how that when we behold the face of Jesus, we are changed into His likeness. This also happens with us and our children. Our children behold our face all day long. What do they see? An expression of contentment and joy? Or frustration and anger? A smile or a frown?
Dear mother, your children will change into the same image they see on your face. Do you want happy, smiling children? Let them see this expression on your face.
I love the words of the hymn:
Let the beauty of Jesus be seen in me,
All his wonderful passion and purity,
O thou Spirit divine, all my nature refine,
Till the beauty of Jesus be seen in me.
May the expression on our faces make us look beautiful to our husbands and children.
Love from Nancy Campbell
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A man who was lame from birth sat at the temple gate to beg. When he saw Peter and John going into the temple for the 3.00 p.m. prayer meeting, he asked for money. Peter answered, “Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk” (Acts 3:6).
I often think that “when I have more money” I will be able to help certain ministries and do greater things for God. But the early disciples didn’t have silver and gold and they turned the world upside down! They gave what they had—the life-giving power of God residing in them through the infilling of the Holy Spirit.
Let’s forget about what we don’t have and give what we do have—the power of God dwelling in us to bless those around us. Give love and joyful service to your husband. Give to your children—hugs, kisses, encouraging words, godly teaching, and a home atmosphere that’s filled with God’s love, joy, and peace.
It’s good to remember that we don’t always have to give our children monetary things. It’s not things that they’ll remember, but the love and happiness in our homes.
Don’t allow your children to get into the habit of expecting to get something every time you go to the shops. Your children won’t be deprived if you can’t take them to all the entertainment that requires money! And there are loads of wonderful adventures and outdoor things you can take your children to that don’t require finance. And you can make it far more exciting and creative.
Of course, if you have the money, you can bless them in this way too. But it’s not necessary. Pour out your life for your family and for those who are needy around you. If you don’t have money to bless others, you can certainly do it in so many other ways.
Be a giver of your life, your smiles, your joy, your prayers, your time, and your practical love.
Be encouraged today,
Nancy Campbell
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What does it mean to be faithful? The Hebrew word is "aman" which means “to stand firm, to endure, long continuance, reliable, trusty.” I like the word, “trusty” don’t you?
Faithfulness is not a flashy thing. It is not always an exciting thing. It can often be part of the drudgery of life. We do the same thing day after day as we mother in our homes. Life may seem monotonous. It may seem boring compared to the exciting life that others are leading outside the home. But dear mother, be encouraged. You are fulfilling the most far-reaching and influential career in the nation!
Catherine Booth said, “I seek to make myself fit to be a mother, and being that in every sense, I shall be ready for any destiny God has for me.” Be faithful in your home—your marriage, mothering, and all the little things you do in the “daily grind.” This is your greatest training for life and eternity.
All your daily moments of faithfulness add up. They add up to a life of faithfulness. They add up to the reward of those wonderful words, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter into the joy of thy lord” (Matthew 25:21).
And here’s another promise for you as you abound in your great calling of mothering: “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that YOUR LABOR IS NOT IN VAIN IN THE LORD” (1 Corinthians 15:58).
God is watching and your reward is coming.
Love from Nancy Campbell
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“Every woman is the heart of the family, since no man can ever really love in the same way as a woman. So that by trying to become somebody else, women lose something, and because of that loss, the world is what it is today.
My advice to women is simple: Stay home. A woman's first responsibility is to be the mother, the heart, the only one who can keep the family together We are liberated only when we live our life to the fullest as a woman. And that is the greatest liberation of all."
~ Mother Theresa
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God is Father. He loves to father. He is the source of all parenting.
Talking about Jesus Christ, God says in Hebrews 1:5: “For unto which of the angels said he at any time, Thou art my son, this day have I begotten thee? And again, I will be to him a Father, and he shall be to me a Son?” As we read this Scripture, see the intent of God’s heart to be a Father. Jesus Christ is His “beloved Son.”
When we have a desire to bring forth children, we reveal the heart of our God. To desire to be a father and a mother is God-like. God gives to every man unique and differing gifts. However, no matter what gifts or career a man has, his greatest calling is fatherhood. He is made in the image of God who is a Father. Everything else in life serves this highest purpose.
It is the same for us as women. Each one of us have different gifts and abilities which we use for the blessing of others in this life. But we are essentially mothers. Or I should say quintessentially, for we were created for this purpose. When we embrace mothering and our nurturing anointing, we reveal God’s heart. The core of His heart.
Embrace your beautiful calling, mother. You are in God’s perfect will. You are revealing His likeness to the world.
To reject mothering is to reject the likeness of God. (And precious mothers who are unable to have children of your own, please don’t despair. You are also great mothers as you release your nurturing anointing to those God brings into your life).
We see such a hatred today to God’s ultimate plan for families. It comes from the pit of hell. The rising star of the Democratic Party, Ocasio-Cortez, now states that it may not be ethical to have children, given the difficulties that climate change will likely cause in the years to come. Her thinking is the opposite of God’s ways.
We are either on God’s side or the devil’s side. There is no in-between.
Be blessed,
Nancy Campbell
J. Omado Phorography
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Ashley O’Brien sent in a poem. Here it is for you to enjoy.
Ashley writes: “The Lord always gives me poems when a new baby is born. A new baby is the sweetest thing. They are also so inspiring as I look at the potential wrapped up in such a little human.
I wrote this poem after three girls in a row! We have our second little boy now.
I want to raise a man! Here is a picture of our little guy, Ryle.”
Ashley.lynn.obrien-at-gmail.com
Oh Lioness, who cuddles her child close,
How queenly you are with strength and beauty untouchable,
You fawn at the tiny cub at your breast,
You stare at the details of eyes, hair, and nose,
You are raising a king,
Royalty in his blood undeniable!
A mother love, foundational,
Praises erupt from your parting lips
As you bend to kiss the wisps of his hair,
God designed this child, every last detail
Down to the talents that lie dormant inside
And used you, oh Queen, as a vessel to carry him
And a vessel still as you nourish him.
You will teach him, discipline him,
Encourage him, guide him, equip him
As he grows from baby to boy to man.
Oh, how queenly you are as your raise a gentleman
To serve our sovereign God,
To love one woman until death,
To father with humble adoration,
To provide with honesty and integrity.
Oh mother, hold your child close,
Stare into his eyes and sense his spirit,
When he cries, go to him and whisper I-love-yous,
When he is scared, remind him he is brave,
When he is dejected, remind him of eternal joy,
When he is suffering, remind him he is not alone,
When the questions of life aren’t unanswered, remind him God works in mysteries,
When life gives hardships, remind him of God’s strength.
Look at your baby, you are raising a king,
It’s costly to fail, oh mother.
Remind yourself daily of your call to motherhood
And to this child specifically,
Of your duty to God and the men of the next generation.
They will search for a leader—
A good man with morals,
With wisdom,
With the ability to see right from wrong,
With masculine strength and a bold spirit,
A humbled heart who gives honor where honor is due,
Who is crowned with blessings from Above,
Who is a voice to the voiceless,
Who stands when others cower,
Raise this man.
Oh mother, you are raising a king.
Ashley O’Brien * Ashley.lynn.obrien-at-gmail.com
Flowery Branch, Georgia, USA
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When you think about yourself all the time, you will be miserable. Pour out your life for others and you'll live a life of joy.
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To be a wife is to serve. To be a mother is to serve. To be a woman is to serve. So why do we grumble and complain? Let’s serve with joy and extravagant love. This is the example of the Son of God, the glory of Heaven. He didn’t come to be served, but to serve and lay down his life. #servewithjoy #servewithlove #ilovetoserve #livejoyfully #liveextravagantly #aboverubies #nancycampbell
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You will stay in bondage, ,misery, and bitterness until you forgive. Forgiveness sets you free.
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Are you wilting in your home today? Perhaps you are barely making it through. You are just surviving.
What about flourishing? Is this possible? Yes, this is God’s purpose for you.
I love the New Living Translation of Psalm 128:3, 4: "Your wife will be like a fruitful vine, FLOURISHING WITHIN YOUR HOME. And look at all those children! There they sit around your table as vigorous and healthy as young olive trees. That is the Lord’s reward for those who fear him."
God wants you to flourish and bloom. Where does He want you to flourish? In your home.
Dear mother, get out of survival mode into thriving mode. It all hinges on your attitude. Dream of ways to flourish in your home and soon you will be flourishing on every hand.
Have a glorious day in your home today,
Nancy Campbell
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God says: “Ye are the children of the Lord your God” (Deuteronomy 14:1). What does this mean? I am a redeemed, blood-bought child of the King of the universe. Not any king, but the King of kings.
I am royalty. You are royalty. Therefore, we should live like royalty. The Knox translation says: “Learn to carry yourselves as the children of the Lord your God.”
Do you speak like royalty--like a daughter of the King of kings? Do you walk like a daughter of royalty?
Do you dress like a daughter of the King of kings? That means modestly, but also beautifully. You won’t see a princess in drab, dreary clothes.
Do you live in every way like a daughter of the King? Are you teaching your daughters to carry themselves and walk as daughters of the King?
I think it’s time we acknowledge who we are and began living accordingly. Don’t you?
Blessings from Nancy Campbell
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What can we Do? Dear ladies, we can trust our God. He is always faithful. Never failing. No matter what circumstance you are going through in your life right now, you can trust Him.
We can answer Yes to all the following statements:
Because my God is Omnificent (all-creating), the One who created the world and every intricate part of my body, can I not trust Him with every aspect of my physical body?
Because my God is Omnipotent (all-powerful), can I not trust Him to sovereignly rule my life rather than putting my trust in mere man?
Because my God is Omniscient (all-wise and all-knowing), can I not trust Him to teach me and lead me in His paths?
Because my God is Omnipresent (all-present God), can I not trust Him to be with me in my home and in all situations?
Because my God is Omnibenevolent (all-good and all-loving), can I not trust Him, knowing that even when I am going through difficult times, and everything looks impossible that He is working it out for good?
Yes, we can!
Blessings from Nancy Campbell
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We are reminded in Ephesians 4:32 to: “Be kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another.” Did you know that this means to your husband and children first? And, it’s even more than what we say; it’s HOW we say it. An unknown writer encourages us . . .
It is not so much what you say,
As the manner in which you say it;
It is not so much the language you use
As the tones you use to convey it.
For words come from the mind
And grow by study and art;
But tones leap forth from the inner self
And reveal the state of the heart.
How are we speaking to our family today?
Love from Nancy Campbell
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When Eve woke up to life, she was in her garden home. God had the home ready for her. This was to be her life. This is where she would bring life into the world and raise children to influence the world. This is where she would work and find fulfillment in all the gifts God had given her. It was not a place of restriction, but joy, freedom, and productivity.
And this is God’s plan for you, dear mother. This is your life, too.
You are a “keeper at home” (Titus 2:5). Oops! That’s not in the Bible, is it? Yes, it’s still there, unless you cut it out. But it is not restricting! Its vastness is as wide as the ocean and as high as the stars.
The home is a birthing center,
a mothering/nurturing center,
a training and education center,
a praise and worship center,
a prayer center,
an eating center,
a cultural development center,
a social and celebration center,
a hospitality center,
a counseling center,
a health center,
an industry center,
a garden center,
and a convalescent center!
And this is just the beginning. You will never have time be bored.
Blessings from Nancy Campbell
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God’s purpose for us is to be conformed to the image of Christ (Romans 8:29 and 2 Corinthians 3:18). That is also His purpose for our children.
Are we revealing the character of Jesus in our lives? What is His character? The following are seven aspects of the spirit of Jesus to line up with our lives.
The character of Jesus is the spirit of LOVE (John 13:34-35; 15:13; and Galatians 5:22).
The character of Jesus is the spirit of SERVING (John 13:13-17; Philippians 2:7; and Matthew 20:28).
The character of Jesus is the spirit of OBEDIENCE (Matthew 26:36-42; Philippians 2:8; and Hebrews 5:8).
The character of Jesus is the spirit of HUMILITY (Matthew 11:29; Philippians 2:8; and Colossians 3:12).
The character of Jesus is the spirit of FORGIVENESS (Luke 23:34 and Colossians 3:13).
The character of Jesus is the spirit of PATIENCE and LONGSUFFERING (Galatians 5:22-23 and Colossians 3:12-13).
The character of Jesus is the spirit of UNSELFISHNESS. (Philippians 2:4-8 and 1 Peter 2:21-24).
Will your husband and children see the character of Jesus in you today?
Love from Nancy Campbell
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Such a good reminder for moms in the home. Each day as we mother and nurture our children and face
the challenges and hiccups of each day, we choose whether we’ll walk in the flesh or walk in the Spirit. When we choose the flesh we bring a negative and gloomy spirit over our home. When we choose to walk in the Spirit, we make a joyful atmosphere. Which will we choose? #walkinthespirit #joyandgladness #agodlyatmosphere #joyfulmotherhood #aboverubies #nancycampbell
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I think you know that I love tablecloths. I loved being back in New Zealand where homemakers still use tablecloths, rather than eating from a naked table. This is at my sister-in-law’s home where every meal—breakfast, lunch, and supper were served on a lovely tablecloth. It adds that “special something” to the meal. These little extra things show our husbands and children that we care about them. #tablecloth #makeeverymealaloveaffair #tablefellowship #mealstogether #aboverubies #nancycampbell
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I think you will have to agree with me that most of us live below the lifestyle that Jesus Christ accomplished for us on the cross of Calvary. His death, the shedding of His precious blood, and rising from dead, not only save us from our sins, but enable us to live lives of victory and continual overcoming.
Why? Because Christ lives in us by the power of his Holy Spirit. “Christ in you, the hope of glory” (Colossians 1:27).
This truth is for you in your home. In your kitchen. When everything is going crazy. When you feel overwhelmed. You don’t have to give into your feelings. You don’t have to be overpowered by your situation. Instead, acknowledge that Christ dwells in you. You are living in His rest, His peace, His patience, and His joy!
The greatest mystery in the entire universe,
Greater than loads of money in my purse,
Is that Christ, the Son of God, lives in me,
Making His abode and setting me free!
No longer living in defeat and despair
Because joy and hope in Christ I share,
Forgetting all worry and discontentment
In Christ I have joy and merriment.
Depression, anger, and hate are gone
Instead I’m singing the victory song!
Christ in me, the fullness of glory!
This is my testimony and my story!
Blessings to you today from Nancy Campbell
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Your children constantly look at you during the course of the day. What kind of face to they see? Smiling and happy— or grouchy and frowning? Did you know that just as we are changed into the image of Jesus as we behold Him (2 Corinthians 3:18), our children are also changed into the image they see on our face! That’s scary, isn’t it? Isaiah 3:9 (HCSB) says: “The look on their faces testifies against them.”
Are your children whining and grumbling? Maybe they are learning it from you. If you want happy children, you need to have a happy attitude yourself.
Proverbs 15:13 says: “A merry heart maketh a cheerful countenance.” Dear mother, did you know that you can change your countenance by the attitude of your heart? It’s your attitude, not your feelings. What a sad household when you live by your feelings. You are miserable, your children are miserable, and your husband doesn’t want to be around!
The MLB translation of Proverbs 15:13 says: “A happy heart makes the face look sunny.” What does a sunny face look like? It’s a smiling face! “But I don’t feel like smiling,” you complain. Once again, it’s nothing to do with how you feel. You must get out of this habit of living by your feelings. It is a depleting way to live.
One pioneer woman said, “Self pity is the lowest state to which a woman’s mind can fall.”
Come on now, lift up your head. God is on the throne. He is your strength and your joy. Against everything you feel, acknowledge His joy that dwells in you because He lives in you. Praise the Lord, count your blessings, confess the positive, and your countenance will change.
Forget your self-pity. Put on a smile. You can do it. Start smiling, and you’ll be amazed how different you feel. And, you’ll be amazed what happens in your home. Not only will your face be sunny, but your home will be filled with sunny faces.
Love to you today,
Nancy Campbell
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