Devotional Archives for Encouragement for Today
Comparing oneself to others is a pervasive trap that can hinder personal growth and fulfillment, but the author of Hebrews reminds us that we are each on our own unique path with God's guidance. By learning to celebrate what others have achieved while leveraging our own strengths to help others, we can break free from comparison and run our races with perseverance and purpose.
As Jesus himself knew, rest is essential to replenishing our souls and showing up as the best versions of ourselves in service to God and others. In a world where busyness and excuses are commonplace, prioritizing quiet time with God can be a game-changer for finding peace, joy, and restoration.
As a believer in Jesus, you have emergency codes to navigate life's most challenging situations, found within the Scriptures. By knowing and applying key verses for encouragement and prayer, God redirects your attention away from pain and toward Him as your Protector and Provider.
When disappointment and grief overwhelm us, it's easy to lose hope, but the Bible teaches us that God can handle our honesty and that He is always present in our pain. By being honest about our emotions and clinging to the truth of God's character, we can find comfort and hope in His presence, even when circumstances seem impossible.
True Christian hospitality is not just about serving food, but about extending God's love to others through genuine presence and connection. By embracing the costly nature of loving others as Jesus loves us, we can experience the transformative power of hospitality and live out the gospel in our daily lives.
Ruth Chou Simons shares a powerful message of perseverance in the face of challenges, drawing on Hebrews 12:1-2 to encourage readers to "throw off everything that hinders" and "run with perseverance the race marked out for us." By embracing God's presence in their current circumstances, believers can find hope and purpose, even in difficult seasons.
When weariness sets in, it's easy to get caught up in feelings of hopelessness and despair, but what if we could shift our perspective? By asking ourselves three simple questions - What do I feel?, What am I focusing on?, and What should I do about it? - we can begin to find rest for our souls and partner with God to make a difference in the world.
Lysa TerKeurst shares her personal struggle with forgiveness in the face of unchangeable circumstances, exploring biblical truths that bring hope and healing to those who feel wronged. In her new resource, "When Unchangeable Feels Unforgivable," Lysa offers practical guidance on how to move forward with a heart full of forgiveness, trust, and faith.
Megan Fate Marshman shares a personal reflection on James 1:2, where she explores the concept of "considering it pure joy" during trials, shifting her perspective from sorrow to the fullness of joy found in heaven and God's character. By acknowledging her emotions and seeking hope in Christ, she finds perseverance and maturity, ultimately understanding that trials can produce a deeper sense of joy and completeness.
Tracie Miles shares her personal journey of transforming a dilapidated home into a beautiful new space, mirroring the process of spiritual growth and renewal that God brings to our lives. By embracing her fears and trusting in God's vision for her future, Tracie discovers a fresh start and a newfound sense of purpose, encouraging readers to do the same.