Devotional Archives for Encouragement for Today
As the world grapples with the ongoing effects of COVID-19, many are struggling to find the spirit of generosity this holiday season. In a powerful reflection, Proverbs 31 Ministries' Sami McDonald shares how she's learned that true giving comes from a willing heart, not just what we have, and invites readers to join her in offering their gifts to God with humility and trust.
As the world grapples with uncertainty and darkness, a Christian leader reflects on the true meaning of Christmas, finding that it's precisely in the midst of chaos that we need the light of hope and peace most. In a powerful devotional, Kelly Barbrey invites readers to shift their focus from praying for circumstances to change to flourishing where they are, trusting that the star of wonder and miracle of Christmas is hidden within them.
Kia Stephens shares a personal story of finding God's goodness in the midst of difficult circumstances, drawing parallels with Jacob's experience as recorded in the book of Genesis. By adjusting her perspective and focusing on God's sovereignty, she discovers that His goodness can be seen even in life's most challenging moments.
Lysa TerKeurst shares a personal struggle with the power of lies and how they can affect our thoughts, beliefs, and faith. By applying biblical principles from Philippians 4:8-9, she offers practical guidance on recognizing and replacing negative thoughts with truth, leading to a deeper sense of peace and freedom.
As the world's heroes are often defined by their worldly success, Erin Weidemann challenges readers to flip this mindset and prioritize a life of eternal significance, asking "God, how do You want to use me?" and exploring four key steps to achieve this: Answering God's call, Believing in Jesus, Changing through active discipleship, Devotion to fulfill roles, and Fruitfulness that leads to lasting impact.
A young mother's heartbreak and grief after losing her unborn child are transformed when she finds comfort in Psalm 13, a psalm of venting and crying to God, which encourages honest expression and trust in His goodness. Through her journey, the author discovers that even in the darkest moments, God can put light back into our eyes, and faith can be restored through perseverance and remembrance of His past goodness.
Jesus' command to "love your neighbor as yourself" is often misunderstood, but it's actually a call to action that requires us to take care of our own well-being first and then extend that love to others. By understanding what self-love truly means and how we can apply it to loving those around us, we can show compassion and care to those who need it most.
Nicki Koziarz shares a personal experience of feeling hurt and offended after three separate incidents, but discovers that being offended is often a choice rather than an emotional response to something done to her. By distinguishing between hurt and offense, she encourages readers to reflect on their own emotions and choose to overlook offenses, seeking spiritual growth and maturity through forgiveness and letting go.
Lysa TerKeurst shares a powerful story from the Bible about Jesus' presence in the midst of a storm, where He calms the disciples' fears and offers peace to those who cry out for Him. In this inspiring devotional, Lysa encourages readers to see Jesus as their refuge and strength, reminding them that His presence is always available to comfort and guide them through life's toughest moments.
As the world turned to comfort foods, online distractions, and retail therapy during the pandemic, author Wendy Speake reveals that true freedom lies not in these temporary fixes, but in turning to Jesus for rest and help. By laying down our burdens and seeking a deeper connection with God, we can break free from the grip of sugar addiction and other vices, and find the true comfort and fulfillment we've been craving.