Devotional Archives for Encouragement for Today
As mothers of preschoolers, Alexandra Kuykendall and her community struggled with self-control, kindness, and gentleness. Through a year-long journey exploring the fruit of the Spirit, they discovered that seeing these traits in others was a powerful way to cultivate them in themselves.
Laura Bailey reflects on the importance of sharing the gospel message, citing Romans 10:14-15, which emphasizes that one must be sent to preach in order to call on the name of the Lord. By casting aside excuses and allowing the Holy Spirit to work through them, ordinary people can become champions of the gospel, declaring the Good News to those who need it most.
Embracing the uncertainty of life, author Michael Todd encourages readers to adopt a mindset of "maybe" when it comes to trusting God's plans. By letting go of the need for absolute certainty and instead focusing on faith, believers can tap into God's infinite wisdom and power, leading to a deeper trust in His sovereignty and a more purposeful life.
Sheila Walsh shares her personal journey of struggling with self-doubt and shame, but finds hope in the power of God's grace and love. In her new book "Holding On When You Want to Let Go," she offers practical advice on how to overcome life's challenges and bring all the pieces of your broken life to a loving God.
Ruth Chou Simons shares a personal story of discovering that striving to be amazing is actually a hindrance to experiencing God's grace, and instead invites readers to boast in their weaknesses as a means of resting in Christ's power. By letting go of the pressure to perform, we can find freedom and wonder at God's unchanging character and strength.
Amy Carroll shares a personal experience of how Jesus' empathy changed her life, and explores the concept of empathy in relation to Jesus' suffering, highlighting that He truly understands our pain and can offer healing and power through His resurrection. By understanding Jesus' empathetic nature, readers can find comfort and connection with Him, even in their own suffering.
Quantrilla Ard shares her personal struggle with trusting God's promises, drawing from her own experiences of disappointment and fear, but ultimately finds hope in the Bible's testimony that God keeps His word. By examining the story of Israel's journey to the promised land, she discovers that even when we feel absent or uncertain, God's promises are sure and will ultimately come to pass.
You’re running your own race. No one can compete with the plans God has for you, so there’s no need to worry about what’s taking place in other lanes.
When we feel battered and Jesus appears silent, may we cling to these truths and allow perseverance to complete its work in us. Today, may we confidently trust that God is with us in the storm and patiently await the calm that’s coming on the other side.
God gave us His Word to read and His Spirit to whisper to ours. But it’s not enough just to hear. Our faith grows legs for change when we turn that hearing into doing.