Click here to pick up a copy of the study guide at Amazon.

Wrapping Up Our 7-Week Journey… As we come to the end of our 7-week journey through Another 7 Virtues of a Proverbs 31 Woman, I just want to thank you for walking through this study with me. It’s been such a blessing to open God’s Word together each week. I’ll be stepping away for a little while to begin working on our next study, and I’m excited to share that I’ll be revisiting the book of Exodus. This will be a completely refreshed study—not the same one we did seven years ago—with much more depth and added insight. It’s a bigger project, but I’ve already made a good start, and I’m looking forward to sharing it with you. As soon as I have more details, I’ll be in touch.

As we close the week on discernment, I want to leave you with one final thought.

Discernment isn’t always about choosing between right and wrong. Sometimes it’s about seeking direction—knowing when to step forward and when to step back. A Proverbs 31 woman seeks God’s direction before she moves. She learns to quiet her heart and listen to His.

“She considers a field and buys it; out of her earnings she plants a vineyard.” (Proverbs 31:16, NIV)

There’s wisdom in that pause. She doesn’t act on impulse—she moves with intention. And that’s what we need to do too: pause and weigh our decisions in light of God’s will, asking, “Is this from the Lord? Is this His timing, or mine?”

This week, a member in our Facebook group shared something that really stood out to me. She said, “You can’t always find the answer in Scripture. For example: Should I start a new women’s ministry group for moms?”

That’s a real question, isn’t it? And it’s one many of us face in different ways.

She went on to explain that she moved ahead without really seeking the Lord. She did everything right—planned, prepared, advertised, put in the effort. From the outside, it all looked good.

But week after week, no one came.

After four weeks, she quietly let it go.

There’s an important lesson in this. It wasn’t that her idea was wrong. A ministry for moms is a good thing. But even good ideas need God’s direction.

Discernment isn’t just about avoiding sin—it’s about walking in step with the Spirit. It’s about recognizing that timing matters. Direction matters. The Lord’s leading matters.

In moments like these, discernment calls us to seek Him first, to trust His leading, and to rest in His timing.

And how do we grow in discernment? We read our Bibles, we pray, and we slow down long enough to quiet our hearts and listen to His.

That brings us to Acts 16:6–10.

Paul and his companions were traveling, ready to preach the Word. They had a clear mission, a willing heart, and a good plan. But Scripture tells us something surprising:

“Paul and his companions traveled throughout the region of Phrygia and Galatia, having been kept by the Holy Spirit from preaching the word in the province of Asia.” (Acts 16:6, NIV)

Think about that for a moment.

They were trying to do something good—preach the gospel. And yet, the Holy Spirit stopped them.

It goes on:

“When they came to the border of Mysia, they tried to enter Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus would not allow them to.” (Acts 16:7, NIV)

Again, not allowed.

So what did they do? They didn’t push ahead. They didn’t force the door open. They waited.

And then came the direction:

“During the night Paul had a vision of a man of Macedonia standing and begging him, ‘Come over to Macedonia and help us.’” (Acts 16:9, NIV)

God didn’t just close doors—He redirected them.

And that’s what discernment looks like.

Sometimes the Lord says no. Sometimes He says not yet. And sometimes He leads us somewhere completely different than we expected.

The key is this: Paul didn’t rely on his own plans, even when they were good. He stayed sensitive to the Spirit.

And that’s the invitation for us too.

Before we move ahead—even with something that seems right—let’s ask ourselves, are we bringing it to the Lord? Are we willing to wait for His direction? Are we open to Him changing our plans?

Because discernment isn’t just about making wise choices.

It’s about walking in step with the Spirit, while letting God lead. 

This Week’s Printable

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Over the past 20 years, the rise of the internet has dramatically changed the way we absorb information—and the way we receive the gospel. Everything from books, blogs, podcasts, videos, and social media is competing for our attention. And with so many voices speaking at once, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

This is why discernment matters—not just a little, but in a way that guards our faith.

The word discern comes from the Latin word discernere, which means to separate or sift. It’s the ability to take an idea and ask, Is this true? To separate truth from what only sounds right.

If you’ve ever tried to tell the difference between white and almost white, you know how difficult that can be. The only way to be sure is to compare it to pure white itself. That’s how truth works. What sounds right isn’t always in line with God’s Word, and if we’re not careful, we can mistake one for the other.

This is why we need to stay grounded in Scripture—coming back to it again and again as our standard for truth.

“Discernment is not a matter of simply telling the difference between right and wrong; rather it is telling the difference between right and almost right.” — Charles Spurgeon

God’s Word anchors us—not just in what we believe, but in how we think. It corrects us when we drift, steadies us when we feel unsure, and leads us in the way we should go.

As the psalmist writes, “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path” (Psalm 119:105, NIV).

Without that light, it’s easy to wander without even realizing it. But the more time we spend in Scripture, the more familiar truth becomes—and when truth becomes familiar, it’s easier to recognize when something isn’t quite right.

But there’s more to this. Let’s not forget that we’re not left to figure it out on our own. God has given us His Spirit.

Jesus said, “But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth” (John 16:13, NIV). The Holy Spirit teaches us, brings conviction when something is off, and helps us understand what we’re reading.

Sometimes it’s a quiet nudge—a pause in your spirit, a sense that something doesn’t quite line up. And in those moments, it’s worth paying attention.

It’s also worth asking what we’re filling our minds with. Just like our bodies are shaped by what we eat, our spiritual lives are shaped by what we take in. Not every message we hear is rooted in truth, and not every voice is speaking for the right reasons.

Some are driven by a desire for attention.
Some by influence.
Some by financial gain.

And if we’re not careful, we can take it in without ever questioning it. So, we pause, we listen carefully, and we weigh it against Scripture—asking ourselves:

Is this leading me closer to Christ?
Is this shaping my heart in a way that reflects Him?

Those are questions worth asking.

Here are some practical ways we can grow in discernment:

Stay rooted in Scripture.
Come back to God’s Word daily—even in small ways. The more familiar you are with truth, the easier it is to recognize what isn’t.

Compare everything to the Bible.
Don’t accept teaching at face value. Ask, Does this line up with Scripture?

Pray for wisdom.
“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God… and it will be given to you” (James 1:5, NIV). He is faithful to guide you.

Be mindful of your influences.
Pay attention to who you’re listening to. Choose voices that consistently point you back to Christ and His Word.

Slow down and test what you hear.
Not everything needs an immediate response. Give yourself time to think it through.
“Test everything. Hold on to what is good” (1 Thessalonians 5:21, NIV).

Listen for the Spirit’s prompting.
When something feels off, don’t ignore it. Bring it before the Lord and let Him lead you into truth.

Discernment doesn’t happen all at once.

But as you stay rooted in God’s Word…
and learn to listen for His voice…

you’ll find that He is faithful to guide you—
one step at a time.

This Week’s Bible Verse

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Week 7 at a Glance 

A Note About Journaling
As you move through this study, consider keeping a personal journal nearby. It doesn’t have to be fancy—just a simple notebook where you can jot down your prayers, reflections, and anything the Lord impresses on your heart. This is your space to write freely, revisit lessons, and record your own journey of restoration.

TUESDAY

Visit TWW – Visit timewarpwife.com or check your inbox to find a link to this week’s video.

Read Genesis 3:1-13 – Notice how deception begins and how God’s Word is questioned.

Read Chapter 7 in the Study Guide – Focus on the difference between heavenly wisdom and earthly wisdom.

Begin the Study Guide Questions – Start with James 3 and the questions on wisdom and fruit.

Community Check-In – Share one reason discernment matters in everyday life.

WEDNESDAY

Truth Under Pressure – Read Matthew 4:1-11. Pay attention to how Jesus responds to temptation.

Wisdom From Above – Read James 3:17 slowly.

Personal Reflection – Ask yourself: Where am I most tempted to reason instead of trust?

Share Your Insight – Post one phrase or quality from James 3:17 that stood out to you.

THURSDAY

Training Discernment – Read Hebrews 5:14 and Philippians 1:9-10.

Continue Study Guide Questions – Focus on how discernment grows through practice and love grounded in truth.

Quiet Prayer – Ask God to help you recognize what is “almost right” but not fully true.

FRIDAY

Visit TWW – Visit timewarpwife.com or check your inbox for the weekly devotional wrap-up.

Testing What We Hear – Read 1 John 4:1 and Acts 17:11.

Community Engagement – What stood out most this week: Eve’s temptation, Jesus’ response, or the Bereans‘ example?

SATURDAY

Quiet Time or Catch-Up – Finish remaining questions, reread key Scriptures, and review your notes.

Guard Your Heart – Identify one voice, influence, or message you need to weigh more carefully against Scripture.

SUNDAY – No assignments today. Thank the Lord for His Word, which guards and guides your heart.

MONDAY

Wrap-Up Reflection – How has your understanding of discernment changed this week?

Final Community Post – Share one practical way you want to pause, weigh, and seek God’s wisdom before responding.

When you purchase a copy of the study guide, you’re actively supporting and strengthening our ministry as we spread the empowering message of the gospel to women across the globe!

Click here to pick up a copy of the study guide at Amazon.

If joy is deeper than happiness, does that mean happiness doesn’t matter?
And if joy comes from trusting God, is there still room for the simple happiness we all long for?

Ten years ago this week, I experienced one of those rare mountaintop moments.

My book reached #1 overall on Amazon.
Not just in a category—number one across the entire site.

The day felt surreal. When I was getting close to the top of the list, my oldest son jokingly said, “I’ll tell you what—if you get to number one, you can call me.”

I asked, “What if you’re sleeping?”

Without thinking much of it, he laughed and said, “Well, wake me up.”

Two days later, I did exactly that.

At about two in the morning.

I woke him up. I woke the whole house up.

And a few days later it happened again.

It wasn’t the greatest book in the world. It simply landed in the right place at the right time. But in that moment, it felt like standing on the top of a mountain.

Moments like that are special because they don’t happen very often.

And over the years I’ve come to realize something: if every day were a win, we wouldn’t appreciate the blessings nearly as much as we do.

Mountains wouldn’t feel so breathtaking if there weren’t valleys in between.

Mountaintop moments bring happiness.
Valleys teach us to anchor our joy in God instead of circumstances.

So yes—happiness matters.

Those moments of celebration, laughter, answered prayers, and unexpected blessings are gifts from God. Scripture is full of them—weddings, feasts, songs of praise, and hearts filled with gladness.

But happiness was never meant to carry the full weight of our lives.

Happiness rises and falls with circumstances.

Joy runs deeper.

Joy steadies the heart when life moves from the mountaintop back into the valley.

And even in the valleys, there is still room for happiness.

Not the kind that depends on everything going perfectly, but the quiet kind that notices small blessings along the way—the kindness of a friend, the beauty of a peaceful morning, the comfort of knowing God is still at work.

That’s why Paul writes,

“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” — Philippians 4:4 (NIV)

Notice where that joy is anchored.

Not in a perfect week.
Not in favorable circumstances.
Not in a long list of wins.

Paul says to rejoice in the Lord.

And when our joy is rooted there, something beautiful happens.

We don’t spend our lives chasing mountaintop moments.

Instead, we begin to recognize God’s goodness in ordinary days—the quiet evidence of His grace carrying us through the valleys between the mountains.

This Week’s Printable

Here is this week’s printable. Click the image to view and print a higher resolution.

Note to new subscribers:

If you are looking for the link to the downloadable chapter, you can find it at the bottom of your email under the “About the Author” section. Look for the link that says “Member’s Only.” 

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JOIN OUR FELLOWSHIP ON FACEBOOK

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I came across this quote by Charles Spurgeon this week that really got me thinking:

Your sorrow itself shall be turned into joy. Not the sorrow to be taken away, and joy to be put in its place, but the very sorrow which now grieves you shall be turned into joy. God not only takes away the bitterness and gives sweetness in its place, but turns the bitterness into sweetness itself. — Charles Spurgeon

The more I sat with those words, “the very sorrow which now grieves you shall be turned into joy,” the more it all fell into place. And of course, he said it so much better than I ever could.

It’s not that joy comes after the hard thing disappears. But that it comes through the very thing that once brought sorrow. Our circumstances may not change. The loss is still part of our story. But God can transform what that sorrow produces in our hearts.

We often wish He would take the struggle away. We pray for the situation to resolve, for the disappointment to lift, for the heaviness to fade. But what if God’s best work is in the middle of the ache?

That one thing that was pushing us down is now building us up.
That situation that drained us is strengthening us.
That burden that made us retreat is preparing us to comfort others.
That hardship that shook our faith is teaching us to trust Him more.
That moment that clouded our view is helping us see life with fresh clarity.
Three days of sorrow and mourning set the stage for the joyous triumph of the ressurection.

Paul reminds us that even when we don’t see the purpose or the outcome, God is still at work. “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28, NIV)

Don’t get me wrong–God doesn’t ask us to call sorrow good. He doesn’t expect us to pretend the pain didn’t happen. Instead, He meets us in the middle of it and begins a work that only He can do. Over time, we start to notice subtle shifts—how our faith has deepened, how our prayers have grown honest, how our hearts have softened toward others who are hurting.

None of that cancels the sorrow. But it shows us that sorrow isn’t wasted.

There’s a kind of joy that doesn’t depend on explanations or outcomes. A joy that isn’t built on everything working out the way we hoped. A joy rooted in the character of God—His presence, His faithfulness, His ability to bring life out of places that felt empty.

And, that’s what Spurgeon was pointing to:

He turns the bitterness to sweetness.
He takes our sorrow and turns it into strength.
He uses loss to grow compassion.

God can take the very thing that brought us to our knees to plant something beautiful within us.  

This Week’s Bible Verse

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Week 6 at a Glance 

Would you like a printable copy of this schedule? If so, click here.

A Note About Journaling
As you move through this study, consider keeping a personal journal nearby. It doesn’t have to be fancy—just a simple notebook where you can jot down your prayers, reflections, and anything the Lord impresses on your heart. This is your space to write freely, revisit lessons, and record your own journey of restoration.

TUESDAY

Visit TWW – Visit timewarpwife.com or check your inbox to find a link to this week’s video.

Read Habakkuk 3 – Read the chapter slowly and notice how Habakkuk moves from fear to worship.

Read Chapter 6 in the Study Guide – Focus on the difference between happiness and joy.

Begin the Study Guide Questions – Start with the reflection on how joy is formed in the heart.

Community Check-In – Share one situation where joy has been tested recently.

WEDNESDAY

Joy Anchored in the Lord – Read Habakkuk 3:17-18 and Philippians 4:4.

Personal Reflection – Write down one “yet” statement you can make today, even if nothing around you has changed.

Share Your Insight – Post your “yet” statement or a verse that helped steady your heart.

THURSDAY

Joy in the Midst of Trials – Read James 1:2-3 and Romans 15:13.

Continue Study Guide Questions – Focus on how trust produces endurance, hope, and joy.

Quiet Prayer – Ask the Lord to help you see present struggles as opportunities to trust Him more deeply.

FRIDAY

Visit TWW – Visit timewarpwife.com or check your inbox for the weekly devotional wrap-up.

Holding Sorrow and Joy Together – Read Hebrews 12:2 and 1 Peter 4:13.

Community Engagement – What stood out most this week: Habakkuk’s “yet,” joy in suffering, or trusting God when answers are unclear?

SATURDAY

Quiet Time or Catch-Up – Finish remaining questions, reread Habakkuk 3, and review your notes.

Guard Your Joy – Identify one lie that tends to drain your joy and replace it with a truth from Scripture.

SUNDAY – No assignments today. Rejoice in the Lord and let His peace settle your heart.

MONDAY

Wrap-Up Reflection – How has your understanding of joy shifted this week?

Final Community Post – Share one way you want to guard your joy and keep it anchored in the Lord as you move forward.

When you purchase a copy of the study guide, you’re actively supporting and strengthening our ministry as we spread the empowering message of the gospel to women across the globe!

Click here to pick up a copy of the study guide at Amazon.

In my video this week, I mentioned that I’d been sick—and I still was.

Somehow, “video day” went smoothly.

The camera was on, my voice held out, and I honestly thought I was finally turning the corner on this terrible winter cold.

But I wasn’t.

What started as a simple cold moved into my chest and settled there. The cough got deeper. The fatigue got heavier. By last night, I knew I wasn’t just “a little under the weather” anymore.

Sometime after midnight I woke up coughing and couldn’t stop.

I tried to clear my lungs, but my strength was gone.

Every breath felt like work.

And that’s when something else showed up.

Fear.

As I sat there in the dark, another set of images pushed their way in—nights in my dad’s room during his last week of life, when pneumonia had taken hold and every breath was a struggle. Those memories weren’t gentle. They came rushing back fast.

Before long, I wasn’t just sick.
I was scared.

My chest was tight.
My heart was racing.
My thoughts were running ahead to places they didn’t belong.

What if this gets worse?
What if I can’t breathe?
What if…?

I could feel it—my mind wasn’t just thinking, it was spiraling. That restless feeling rose up inside: You need to figure this out right now. But in that moment, nothing was actually getting figured out.

My symptoms didn’t change.
My situation didn’t change.
The only thing getting bigger was fear.

And I realized I needed more than comforting words. I needed a way—right there at 2 a.m.—to take my thoughts back from the fear that was pressing in.

The Bible tells us, “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9, NIV)

But how do we do that when fear is loud and our thoughts are racing?

You do what I did last night–rise above the fear by taking thoughts captive with four faithful steps:

1. Recognize the fear

Instead of arguing with your fear, bring it into the light and say it plainly:

“I’m afraid about my health.”

“I’m afraid about money.”

“I’m afraid about what tomorrow holds.”

When we recognize our fear, we stop letting it lurk in the shadows. We’re honest before God about what’s really going on in our hearts.

You might even say, “Lord, this is what I’m afraid of…” and tell Him directly.

2. Interrupt with Scripture

   Fear loves to talk. It runs “what if” after “what if.” And it doesn’t just talk—it lies. It exaggerates, distorts, and drags our thoughts toward the worst-case scenario.

Courage begins when we interrupt those lies with the truth of God’s Word.

Pick one verse that speaks directly to your fear—something simple enough to remember and repeat:

“Those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength.” (Isaiah 40:31, NIV)

“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.” (Isaiah 41:10a, NIV)

You don’t need ten verses. You just need one clear, steady reminder of who God is and what He has said. Say it out loud if you can. Let that verse interrupt the spiral as you meditate on it.

3. Speak it in prayer

You don’t have to pray a long, polished prayer when you’re afraid. Sometimes all you can manage is one honest sentence—and that’s okay too.

“Lord, You’re here. Help me trust You right now.”

“Jesus, guard my mind and give me peace.”

“Father, I place this in Your hands.”

Short and real is enough. God isn’t measuring the length of your prayer; He’s listening to the heart behind it.

4. End with one faithful step

Courage isn’t about fixing the whole situation at once. It’s about ending with one step that honors God.

Sometimes that step is practical—calling the doctor in the morning, asking for help, or making a needed decision.

But if it’s the middle of the night and you’re in bed, that faithful step might simply be:

“I’m going to stop rehearsing worst-case scenarios.”

“I’m going to rest and talk to God about this again in the morning.”

“I’m going to focus on what’s true, not what’s imagined.”

You can even remind yourself: “Right now, my job is to rest. God is still God in the dark.”

That one small step is an act of courage. It’s you choosing to trust the Lord with what you can’t control.

When fear rises, this is how you RISE:
Recognize the Fear. Interrupt with Scripture. Speak it in prayer. End with one faithful step.

This Week’s Printable

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A Quick Note Before You Read Today’s Post

If Time Warp Wife has helped you grow in God’s Word, would you consider supporting this ministry today? I keep this site ad-free so the focus stays on Scripture and encouragement—not distractions. That also means the work is supported almost entirely by readers.

Behind the scenes there are ongoing costs (Mailchimp, PayPal fees, website expenses, and image licensing), and I’ve also started paying for occasional help so I can keep producing Bible study content consistently.

I only share this occasionally, and I’m grateful you’re here either way.

😊 If you’re able to give, any amount helps—even $2 or $3 makes a difference 

❤️ Support the ministry here: Paypal.com/timewarpwife 

Note to new subscribers:

If you are looking for the link to the downloadable chapter, you can find it at the bottom of your email under the “About the Author” section. Look for the link that says “Member’s Only.” 

Click here to pick up a copy of the study guide at Amazon.

JOIN OUR FELLOWSHIP ON FACEBOOK

If you haven’t done so already, I’d love to invite you to join our Facebook group, Bible Studies by Time-Warp Wife. It’s a place to connect, encourage each other, and grow in faith together. I can’t wait to get started with you! 

Click here to watch this video on Youtube

As I was going through our study on the virtue of courage this past week, one sentence came back to me again and again: “Her view of the future is shaped by her understanding of God.”

Courage isn’t built on what we think the future will hold. It’s built on Who we believe is holding our future. And a Proverbs 31 woman knows her future is in the hands of God.

She can face uncertainty with steadiness, knowing that He is present and able,

And that’s the same assurance David had when he faced a giant. He knew his greatest weapon wasn’t a slingshot, a sword, or a spear. It was the power of God working through him.

“It is not by sword or spear that the LORD saves; for the battle is the LORD’s, and he will give all of you into our hands,” (1 Samuel 17:47, NIV) he said.

We might not be facing Goliath, but we will face a giant or two—problems that feel bigger than us and loud enough to drown out peace. They may be spiritual, mental, physical, or financial. They might be a person, or they may be a personal struggle.

And, when we know that…
God gives us power.
God goes before us.
God walks beside us.
God directs our steps.

Fear loosens its grip.

But here’s the thing—before a Proverbs 31 woman steps out and starts ‘slaying giants,’ she remembers one thing: the power of prayer. And in that secret place—upon the altar of surrender—she finds her source of strength. Before she steps into ministry… before she steps out of her bedroom and into the kitchen… before she opens her phone and sees the messages waiting… before she walks into a hard conversation… she goes to the cross. Before she pours out, she lets God pour in.

This Week’s Bible Verse

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Week 5 at a Glance 

Would you like a printable copy of this schedule? If so, click here.

A Note About Journaling
As you move through this study, consider keeping a personal journal nearby. It doesn’t have to be fancy—just a simple notebook where you can jot down your prayers, reflections, and anything the Lord impresses on your heart. This is your space to write freely, revisit lessons, and record your own journey of restoration.

TUESDAY

Visit TWW – Visit timewarpwife.com or check your inbox to find a link to this week’s video.

Read Esther 4 – Read the chapter slowly, paying attention to Esther’s decision point.

Read Chapter 5 in the Study Guide – Focus on how courage often begins in fear, not confidence.

Begin the Study Guide Questions – Start with the Scripture passages on fear and trust.

Community Check-In – Share one situation where fear has tempted you to hold back.

WEDNESDAY

Courage and Trust – Read Psalm 56:3-4 and Isaiah 41:10.

Quiet Reflection – Notice what God promises when fear rises.

Share Your Insight – Post one phrase from these verses that steadies your heart when you’re afraid.

THURSDAY

Strength That Holds – Read Psalm 112:7 and Deuteronomy 31:8.

Continue Study Guide Questions – Reflect on where a steadfast heart comes from.

Prayer First – Identify one decision or concern you’ve been carrying and intentionally bring it to God in prayer before seeking advice elsewhere.

FRIDAY

Visit TWW – Visit timewarpwife.com or check your inbox for the weekly devotional wrap-up.

Clothed in Strength – Read Proverbs 31:25.

Community Engagement – What stood out most this week: Esther’s courage, God’s promises, or the role of prayer?

SATURDAY

Quiet Time or Catch-Up – Finish questions, reread Esther 4, and review your notes.

Prayer Practice – Spend unhurried time in prayer, asking God to quiet fear and strengthen your obedience.

SUNDAY – No assignments today. Rest in the truth that God goes before you.

MONDAY

Wrap-Up Reflection – Where is God calling you to step forward in trust rather than fear?

Final Community Post – Share one way you want prayer – not fear – to shape your response in the coming week.

When you purchase a copy of the study guide, you’re actively supporting and strengthening our ministry as we spread the empowering message of the gospel to women across the globe!

Click here to pick up a copy of the study guide at Amazon.

My grandchildren were visiting this week. They stayed overnight for a couple of days, and I noticed something in them that made me smile.

They know how to love.

They don’t have much. A few toys. Some craft supplies. Their two little hands. But they use every bit of what they do have to spread love.

Julia was writing notes covered in stickers.
Joseph was delivering cold Diet Pepsis to thirsty adults.

Together they were collecting toilet paper rolls to build something special for Grandpa.

They don’t have much — but they don’t need much to show kindness.

And neither do we.

Some of the deepest corners of our hearts have been touched by small acts of compassion.

Here’s another example.

A few years back, my mom spent her first Valentine’s Day alone. After 61 years of marriage, the day was particularly hard. The house was quiet. The grief was fresh.

It was cold and snowy, but even so, Mom bundled up and made her way next door to drop off some freshly baked bread. After inviting her in, they pressed a small box of chocolates into her hands.

The tag on the box read:
‘Happy Valentine’s Day, Lenore.’

That’s all. Nothing extravagant. Nothing profound. Just a quiet kindness that met her right where she was. I doubt they’ll ever know how much that small gift steadied her heart—or how much of a difference they made, but their quiet compassion was a lifeline to her.

Moments like that remind me that we don’t have to solve someone’s entire life to be compassionate.

Compassion comes in small packages too:

A meal.
A note.
A ride.
A prayer.
A gentle answer.

Small is still faithful.

After all, a little bread and a few fish go a long way in the hands of our Father.

“Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will reward them for what they have done.” — Proverbs 19:17 (NIV)

This Week’s Printable

Here is this week’s printable. Click the image to view and print a higher resolution.

Note to new subscribers:

If you are looking for the link to the downloadable chapter, you can find it at the bottom of your email under the “About the Author” section. Look for the link that says “Member’s Only.” 

Click here to pick up a copy of the study guide at Amazon.

JOIN OUR FELLOWSHIP ON FACEBOOK

If you haven’t done so already, I’d love to invite you to join our Facebook group, Bible Studies by Time-Warp Wife. It’s a place to connect, encourage each other, and grow in faith together. I can’t wait to get started with you! ❤️

Click here to watch this video on Youtube

The other day, I happened upon a heartwarming image that drew me into a story. Nothing dramatic or staged — just simple compassion in action. The photograph shows police officer Lawrence DePrimo kneeling beside a homeless man on a sidewalk in Manhattan, New York. Between them sits a pair of new winter boots.

Officer DePrimo had noticed the man’s bare feet on the cold pavement. Instead of walking past or assuming someone else would help, he stepped into a nearby store and purchased warm boots and socks out of his own pocket. Then, right there on the pavement, he knelt to help him put the boots on.

He had work to do. Places to be. Even so, he stopped to help someone in need.

Stories like that remind us to slow our pace, open our eyes, and truly see what’s in front of us.

Maybe that’s what it takes.

A little intention.
A little awareness.
A little more willingness to reach out and help.

Proverbs 31:20 (NIV) tells us, “She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy.”

Notice the movement in that verse.

She opens.
She extends.

There is intention there.

She doesn’t simply feel sympathy. She moves toward need. Her hands aren’t folded. Her arms aren’t crossed. They are open.

In the New Testament, we see Jesus moved with compassion. He stopped. He touched. He spoke. He fed. He healed.

And what about us? We’re invited to reflect that same heart.

So let’s begin this week with a simple prayer:

“Lord, help me see.”

Help me see the weary cashier.
Help me see the discouraged child.
Help me see the young mother who looks overwhelmed.
Help me see the coworker eating alone.

Help me see.
Help me pause.
Help me reach.

This Week’s Bible Verse

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Week 4 at a Glance 

Would you like a printable copy of this schedule? If so, click here.

A Note About Journaling
As you move through this study, consider keeping a personal journal nearby. It doesn’t have to be fancy—just a simple notebook where you can jot down your prayers, reflections, and anything the Lord impresses on your heart. This is your space to write freely, revisit lessons, and record your own journey of restoration.

TUESDAY

Visit TWW – Visit timewarpwife.com or check your inbox to find a link to this week’s video.

Read Luke 10:25-37 – Read the parable slowly and notice what the Samaritan did.

Read Chapter 4 in the Study Guide – Focus on the difference between empathy and compassion.

Begin the Study Guide Questions – Start working through the Scripture questions.

Community Check-In – Share one way compassion has been shown to you in a hard season.

WEDNESDAY

Read Mark 8:1-10 – Notice what Jesus does with “not enough.”

Small Step of Faith – Choose one simple act of compassion you can do today (a text, a meal, a prayer, a call).

Share Your Insight – Post one sentence in the group: “Today I can offer Jesus my _____, even if it feels small.”

THURSDAY

Compassion in Real Life – Read James 2:15-17. Ask: What does compassion look like with hands and feet?

Clothe Yourself – Read Colossians 3:12-13 and write down the five qualities listed.

Continue Study Guide Questions – Finish any remaining questions from the chapter.

Quiet Prayer – Ask the Lord to help you notice people you usually overlook.

FRIDAY

Visit TWW – Visit timewarpwife.com or check your inbox for the weekly devotional wrap-up.

Comfort Given, Comfort Shared – Read 2 Corinthians 1:3-4.

Community Engagement – What stood out most this week: the Good Samaritan, the feeding of the 4,000, or “showing up” when you don’t have words?

SATURDAY

Quiet Time or Catch-Up – Finish reading, journaling, or questions you haven’t completed.

Gentle Practice – Do one “ordinary compassion” act today (listen without rushing, choose a gentle answer).

SUNDAY – No assignments today. Let God refresh you and soften your heart.

MONDAY

Wrap-Up Reflection – Where is God stretching you: noticing, stopping, giving, or staying present?

Final Community Post – Share one compassionate habit for next week and how you’ll allow room for interruptions.

When you purchase a copy of the study guide, you’re actively supporting and strengthening our ministry as we spread the empowering message of the gospel to women across the globe!

Click here to pick up a copy of the study guide at Amazon.

My husband Michael is a morning person.

He’s up at the crack of dawn, ready to take on the day. The alarm goes off, and he simply gets up. No hesitation. No internal debate.

I am not that way.

For me, getting out of bed is the first hard thing of the day. The room is warm. The house is quiet. The snooze button is inviting. Everything in me wants five more minutes, and then another 5…

And right there — before my feet hit the floor — there’s a choice.

That’s where discipline begins for me. Not a life-changing event—just a small, stubborn step. Overcoming the pull of comfort.

And the truth is, we feel that tension all day long. Don’t we?

Most of us don’t want to unload the dishwasher when we’re happily scrolling. We don’t wake up eager to fold endless baskets of laundry. No one naturally prefers humility over pride or forgiveness over holding a grudge.

And sometimes the disciplines we’re called to are far more heavy than dishes and laundry.

Paul didn’t pretend that growth was effortless.

In 1 Corinthians 9:27 (NIV), he writes, “No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave…”

That’s strong language. There’s resolve in that. There’s intention. There’s grit.

And in Philippians 3:12 (NIV), he says,
“Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on…”

He presses on. He strains forward. He refuses to coast.

Paul is not passive about growth. He strives. He exerts effort. He disciplines his body.

But at the same time, he is fully aware of the source of his strength.

“I strenuously contend with all the energy Christ so powerfully works in me.” – Colossians 1:29, NIV

And that brings us back to the verse in our study guide this week that says, “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.” – 2 Timothy 1:7, NIV

The Spirit gives us the power to change. Discipline gives that power direction.

Paul doesn’t separate spiritual growth from physical habits, and neither should we.

The discipline to rise, to serve, to speak kindly, to rest wisely — these are not small matters. They are training grounds for obedience.

The body has impulses. The Spirit gives direction. And growth? It happens in the tension between the two.

Sometimes that tension feels weighty.
Other times, it’s as simple as closing the cookie jar.
Or putting the phone down.
Or responding gently to a harsh accusation.

It’s worked out in kitchens and laundry rooms and quiet bedrooms before dawn. It’s formed in the ordinary places of life.

And sometimes it begins with a simple choice to throw back the covers and put one foot on the floor. 

This Week’s Printable

Here is this week’s printable. Click the image to view and print a higher resolution.

Note to new subscribers:

If you are looking for the link to the downloadable chapter, you can find it at the bottom of your email under the “About the Author” section. Look for the link that says “Member’s Only.” 

Click here to pick up a copy of the study guide at Amazon.

JOIN OUR FELLOWSHIP ON FACEBOOK

If you haven’t done so already, I’d love to invite you to join our Facebook group, Bible Studies by Time-Warp Wife. It’s a place to connect, encourage each other, and grow in faith together. I can’t wait to get started with you! ❤️

Click here to watch this video on Youtube

Last year when I started making dolls, I also started making clothes for them. Adorable little dresses with tiny sleeves and perfectly gathered skirts. And if I’m being honest, I thought I was a very good sewer. In fact, I still remember being told I was the best sewer in our school.

So when I picked up sewing again, I assumed I already knew what I was doing.

But this past year humbled me.

I realized there were important steps I had been skipping for years. Understitching. Grading seams. And most importantly—stay stitching.

Stay stitching is one of those quiet, almost invisible steps. It’s a simple line of stitching placed just inside the seam allowance, usually around curves or necklines that keeps the fabric from stretching out of shape before it’s sewn together.

Skip it, and the neckline can warp.
Skip it, and the pieces don’t line up quite right.
Skip it, and you spend the rest of the project trying to fix what shifted in the beginning.

It keeps everything in place before the real work begins.

As I got to thinking about this today, I was reminded of our spiritual lives.

We rush through our days. We skip the foundational step. We tell ourselves we’ll come back to it later. We move straight into serving, planning, cleaning, organizing, responding, fixing, helping.

All good things.

But we skip the one thing that keeps everything else from shifting out of place

Sitting at the feet of Jesus.

In Luke 10:42 (NIV), Jesus says of Mary, “Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”

Notice that word—chosen.

Discipline isn’t just about doing more. It’s about choosing what anchors your life. Mary made a decision before the dishes were washed and before the meal was served. She chose to sit. She chose to listen. She chose to put first things first.

That’s stay stitching.

It doesn’t look impressive. It won’t earn applause. It may even feel like you’re “not getting anything done.” But it keeps your heart from stretching in the wrong direction. It keeps your focus from drifting. It keeps your priorities aligned before the day pulls on them from every side.

Martha wasn’t wrong for serving. But Scripture says she was “distracted by all the preparations that had to be made” (Luke 10:40, NIV). The issue wasn’t the work. It was the order.

When Christ is first, everything else fits better.

When He isn’t, we spend the day adjusting and tugging and feeling slightly off-center.

Maybe this week, as we talk about discipline, the Lord is not asking you to add more structure, more lists, or more pressure to your life.

Maybe He’s simply asking you to add the stitch.

Five quiet minutes before the house wakes up.
A Bible opened before your phone.
A whispered prayer before your to-do list.

Philippians 2:13 (NIV) reminds us, “for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.” Even the desire to sit with Him begins with Him. Our role is to respond.

Discipline, at its core, is not white-knuckled effort. It is choosing, again and again, to hold your place at His feet before you step into everything else.

And here’s the beautiful part: when that stitch is in place, the rest of the garment comes together more smoothly.

This week, as we look at Mary and Martha, let’s not just ask how to get more done.

Let’s ask:
What is the one thing that keeps everything else in place?

And then let’s choose it.

Come back on Friday when we’ll talk about the grit of self-discipline—the effort, the sting, and how pressing on flows from sitting first at His feet.

And if you’d like to connect with other women who are walking through this study, Join the discussion in our Facebook group. It’s a warm, encouraging space to share what God is teaching you and to grow together.

This Week’s Bible Verse

Click the image below to view and print a larger resolution

Week 3 at a Glance 

Would you like a printable copy of this schedule? If so, click here.

A Note About Journaling
As you move through this study, consider keeping a personal journal nearby. It doesn’t have to be fancy—just a simple notebook where you can jot down your prayers, reflections, and anything the Lord impresses on your heart. This is your space to write freely, revisit lessons, and record your own journey of restoration.

TUESDAY

Visit TWW – Visit timewarpwife.com or check your inbox to find a link to this week’s video.

Read Luke 10:38-42 – Read it twice. Notice what distracted Martha and what Mary chose.

Read Chapter 3 in the Study Guide – Focus on the difference between busyness and discipline.

Begin the Study Guide Questions – Start with the Scripture questions and the reflection section.

Community Check-In – Share one area where distractions tend to steal your focus.

WEDNESDAY

Wisdom for Daily Discipline – Read Proverbs 6:6-8 (the ant) and Proverbs 31:21 (prepared living).

One Small “5-Minute” Step – Choose one simple task you’ve been putting off and do it today.

Share Your Insight – Post one practical takeaway: What helps you “live today with tomorrow in mind”?

THURSDAY

Spirit-Led Self-Control – Read 2 Peter 1:5-6 and 2 Timothy 1:7.

Revisit the Chapter Questions – Focus on how knowledge, self-control, and perseverance connect.

Choose What’s Better – Write down one “Mary choice” you can make today (even a small one).

Quiet Prayer – Ask the Lord to shape your desires so discipline grows from the heart.

FRIDAY

Visit TWW – Visit timewarpwife.com or check your inbox for the weekly devotional wrap-up.

Community Engagement – What stood out most: the “5 minutes,” the ant, or Mary and Martha? Share why.

SATURDAY

Quiet Time or Catch-Up – Finish questions, reread Luke 10:38-42, and review your notes.

Simple Reset – Pick one distraction to limit for the day (Phone, TV, scrolling) and replace it with one intentional habit.

SUNDAY – No assignments today. Let your soul breathe and let the Word settle in.

MONDAY

Wrap-Up Reflection – What changed in your thinking about discipline this week?

Final Community Post – Share one “better choice” you want to carry into next week – and one way you’ll protect time at Jesus’ feet.

When you purchase a copy of the study guide, you’re actively supporting and strengthening our ministry as we spread the empowering message of the gospel to women across the globe!