Updated 3/17/09 – To see the list of winners: CLICK HERE for the 3/17/09 Post!

Amazing! As I wrote in my “God Always Gives Us The Right Verse For Each Day, Mommy“ post, He’s done it again. Today, in my March 11th reading in the NIV One Year Chronological Bible, I am in Numbers 33 where it records the stages in Israel’s journey to The Promised Land. I found it so interesting that 40 places in their journey were recorded. 40! A significant Biblical number. This record of their journey demonstrates God’s faithfulness and deliverance to the Israelites and His generous lovingkindness in His great gift to them of the land of Canaan.

This verse from Numbers was perfect for today for our 100th blog post because, for my husband and me, that is what Joy In The Truth has become to us…a record of the stages of our journey with the Lord through life. Our blog records some of the wonderful ways He is showing us His faithfulness, perfect unconditional love and provision. We pray this little blog in cyber space brings Him magnificent glory in some small way.

Originally, I was inspired to start blogging by reading my friend Heather’s beautiful family blog. Serendipitously, I have made some friends in Bloggityville, like Jill, Kelly, and Susan. Jill’s family even had Heather’s family and my family over for dinner last year! (Jill happens to live less than an hour away.) Kelly and I are planning a trip to New York City in the future to be in the studio audience of “Live! With Regis & Kelly”! (That is a fun girly trip I take via train at least once a year and invite a few girlfriends along.) And Susan’s energy and enthusiasm literally come through the computer screen to me!

For this 100th Blog Post Celebration, hubs and I will be giving away 7 books that get you into God’s Word. Just leave a comment to enter to win. The winner will be announced on Tuesday 3/17/09, which happens to be my birthday (and St. Patrick’s Day!)! “…remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’ ” Acts 20:35

Here are the books we are giving away. If you already have one of these books, please just note that in your comment. Each winner will also receive one “Philadelphia treat” – see below.

“Holiest of All” by Andrew Murray Thank you, Jill, for introducing me to this book. It is a treasure of a study on the book of Hebrews.

“Jesus Calling Devotional” by Sarah Young One of my very favorite devotionals first given to me by my friend Nancy, and now available at P31.

“A Woman’s Secret To A Balanced Life” by Lysa TerKeurst and Sharon Jaynes My friend Laura S. gave me this book as a gift, and I’ll never forget that day. The Lord used this book mightily in my life when I was a sleep-deprived new mom. He ministered His love and truth to me through this book and got me back into His Book daily. He is our sustenance and portion forever. Lysa has become a friend as the Lord has gently woven some rare but precious threads of our lives together in some amazing ways.

“Mining for Gold in The Heart of Your Child” – CD and character chart by Renee Swope Have you met Renee? She is passionate about raising children in the ways of the Lord and according to His Word! This is a wonderful resource for parents.

“Out of the Mouths of Babes (Learning God’s Precepts From My Preschooler)” by Wendy Pope Wendy Pope loves God’s Word. She is currently hosting hundreds (thousands?) of women (and a few men) in reading through the Bible in a year. God is doing a mighty work as she invited others to join her…the response was amazing (click here to read the story)! Wendy has been such an encourager to me as I desire to walk in obedience to and dependence on the Lord.

“Hidden Joy In A Dark Corner” by Wendy Blight This recently-released book is next up on my reading list. Wendy shares her testimony of God’s faithfulness to her through a very dark time. I respect and admire Wendy for sharing this part of her life as she brings glory to God for His perfect love for her. (And Wendy turned me on to a really “cool” clothing place!)

“Wise Words for Moms” by Ginger Plowman This is a great resource for applying specific scripture while raising children to honor Him. I have had this since our cherubs were just little tots, yet it applies to people of all ages.

In addition to the book, each winner will receive one of the following treats (I have given them away before and they were a real hit…especially to those who have never had them before!) — Tastykakes or Peanut Chews, two companies based nearby in Philadelphia! Just indicate which you would prefer when you leave a comment.

Thanks for stopping by! Leave a comment and check back on 3/17/09 for the list of winners! 🙂
Psalm 100