Savvy Girls Grow -
By Taking Care of Themselves

by Poppy Smith

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I feel sorry for flight attendants.  They give out vital information at the beginning of every flight yet most of us who fly frequently pay little attention.  Every piece of their advice is invaluable, but one in particular is highly practical:  When the oxygen mask drops from above your head, take care of yourself first! 

But that’s so selfish, you might think.  Surely I should be watching out for everyone around me?  Yes—that’s great, but if you’re passing out because of no oxygen, soon others will be taking care of you. 

This same principle applies to life.  We are fearfully and wonderfully made (Ps. 139) and God expects us to value and take care of His incredible creation.   That means making sure that our physical body, emotions, intellect , and the spiritual connection we have with Him, are all kept in good condition to the best of our ability.   [read more]

I was delighted to speak to over eighty women at the International Baptist Church in Singapore last month.  The room was beautifully decorated and we had a big buffet brunch of tasty Singaporean snacks—noodles, dim sum, pastries and fruit, along with dishes whose names I can’t pronounce!  It was so exciting to greet friends who came especially to share in the event and to meet many new women from various parts of the world now living in Singapore.

One “coincidence” sticks out in my mind—I had forgotten to take an umbrella with me and mentioned to my husband that we might have to buy one because of the daily rains.  My friend, Fiona, walked up to me at the brunch meeting and said, “The women’s ministry team would like to give you an umbrella.  It’s our welcome gift for visitors.”  Coincidence—or God’s smiling provision?

Speaking on “Sex, Power and Serving God” at a Christian medical conference in Thailand met with very positive comments from the doctors who attended.  I also presented this in a  workshop format for the women spouses.  Giving them time to talk in small groups about how Christians can be vulnerable to temptation, and what preventative steps each of us can take, took away the possible awkwardness.  The result?  Some pretty frank conversations!  It was a blessing to be there and share on practical issues we all need to think about.

This year's trip to Singapore was a huge blessing for me as I reconnected with leaders and friends from various churches.

Speaking Wisely:
Exploring the Power of Words
(Fisherman Bible Studyguides)

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How can you take care of yourself?

Stop and think about the fact that you are God’s special creation and that you were bought with a price.  Because of your value to God, He wants you to take care of yourself physically, intellectually, emotionally and spiritually.  You’ll be blessed by doing this, and so will others.  Here’s some ways to value what God has given you:

Cherish your body:  Move it!  Give it a regular workout.  Get to bed earlier.  Look for alternatives to convenient junk food.  Learn to destress, detach, delight in simple things.

Stretch your mind: read books like Knowing God by J.I.Packer,  check out writings by Phillip Yancey, John Piper,  Jerry Bridges, Kay Arthur, Larry Crabbe, and many others.

Consider your Emotions: Learn to say “no” so you don’t overstress yourself.  List all you do and see where you can find some quiet space – then take it on a regular basis.  Seek out a mature woman or counselor who will support you as you explore emotions that trouble you.

Cozy up to God: Enjoy spending time getting to know God as the One who loves you.  Read Scripture on a regular basis, listening with spiritual ears to hear what He is saying to you.  Try journaling on what comes to mind as you read: your thoughts, problems, questions, and longings.  Begin to write out praises and what you’re thankful for. 

Which area of health do you need the most right now?  Choose one thing and go for it!

Recent Feedback:

Poppy, I wish I could find the words that would adequately convey how very much we appreciate you and the way God has used you this weekend.  There are eternal results as a result of your time with us. 

Thank you so much for being available and for letting God use you in such a powerful and significant way. Thank you for being real, transparent and for using God's Word and how it has impacted you to encourage and challenge us. 
- Julie B.
Women's Ministry Director of the Salem Heights Church

Mark Your Calendar:

March 6-8 - Women’s Conference, Shenyang, China

April 4 - Immanuel Community Church Retreat, Oregon coast.

April 15 & 22 - Breakfast presentation on “Take Care of Yourself” for Professionally Speaking, Beaverton and Portland, Oregon.

April 25 - Adventure of Faith Presbyterian Church Retreat,
Port Orchard, WA.

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I'm asked questions about faith, life application of Biblical principles and spiritual growth everywhere I speak.

Now, for my online friends, I'd like to give you the same opportunity to ask questions. I'll answer your questions and share comments in coming issues of "Thrive". Just contact me and let me know what you'd like to know more about...all at the click of your mouse!