Devotional Archives for Encouragement for Today
Lysa TerKeurst shares a personal story of struggling with setting boundaries in response to someone else's out-of-control actions, and how establishing healthy limits can help maintain spiritual capacity for compassion and prevent exhaustion. By understanding that only God can bring about true change, she encourages readers to use words with restraint and stay even-tempered, trusting the Lord to handle others' choices.
Valorie Burton shares her insights on "false guilt" and how it can hold women back from living a life of joy and freedom. By recognizing and adjusting unhealthy expectations, individuals can break free from the cycle of self-sabotaging thoughts and instead embrace God's grace and purpose for their lives.
As women, we often struggle with envy and jealousy when comparing our gifts and talents to those of others, but God's purpose for our gifts is not to compare ourselves, but to serve Him and others. By shifting our focus from what we have to who we have it for, we can find true fulfillment and use our unique gifts to bring glory to God.
Lysa TerKeurst shares a personal story of finding beauty in the midst of pain, using the biblical parable of the seed that fell among thorns to illustrate her journey of choosing to focus on God's Word and the good that can come from difficult circumstances. By shifting her perspective from the hurt to the beauty, she has been able to find healing and growth in her life.
As the world around us seems to be turned upside down, many women are struggling to find their strength and identity in God. In this powerful devotion, Alli Worthington shares a message of hope and encouragement, reminding us that our true identity is rooted in who we are in Christ, and that we can't break a woman who draws her strength from God.
Lysa TerKeurst shares a personal and biblical perspective on why God is not a "do-nothing" God, but rather one who is always working behind the scenes to bring about His perfect plan in our lives. Through her own experiences of heartbreak and faith, she reminds us that even in the midst of pain and uncertainty, God's love and care are always present.
Jesus wept for his friend Lazarus, who had died, yet would live again through Jesus' resurrection. This poignant moment in the Bible reminds us that even as followers of Christ, we can grieve and experience human emotions, but ultimately find hope and comfort in our Savior's love and presence.
When responding to hurtful or angry messages, consider the potential consequences of your words and take a moment to calm down before reacting. By choosing to "keep silent" and not engage in a heated exchange, you can avoid saying something that might cause harm and instead respond with wisdom and grace.
Tracie Braylock shares a powerful personal experience of assisting in an open-heart surgery, highlighting the intricate work of God's hands in healing and restoration. In her devotion, she reminds readers that God is close to the brokenhearted and can heal even the deepest wounds, inviting them to surrender their hearts to His care.
When a devastating diagnosis strikes, it's natural to wonder where God is in the midst of suffering. Ruth Schwenk shares her personal journey of grappling with faith and doubt after being diagnosed with cancer, only to discover that even in the darkest moments, God is present and guiding her through Scripture and prayer.