Devotional Archives for Encouragement for Today
Jonathan and his armor bearer trusted God to save them, regardless of the number of enemies they faced. By focusing on their "few" - a small group of men - rather than getting overwhelmed by the many, they were able to trust in God's power and provision.
We are creatures of habit, often repeating the same behaviors day after day without realizing it's holding us back from achieving our goals. By committing our plans to God and seeking His guidance, we can redefine our priorities and make time for what truly matters in life.
Knowing Jesus is not just about recognizing His physical appearance, but about developing a deep and intimate relationship with Him. By seeking to understand His thoughts, values, and heart, we can cultivate a sense of longing to know Him personally, leading to a more authentic and meaningful connection with our Lord.
Lynn Cowell shares a personal story of how she was once held captive by the performance bug, feeling the need to constantly strive for perfection in order to feel accepted. Through her journey and the guidance of Jesus' words, she discovered true freedom from this mindset and invites readers to do the same, promising that if they hold onto His teaching, they will know the truth and be set free.
Lysa TerKeurst shares a personal and powerful message about embracing our weaknesses, finding strength in God's power, and recognizing that we are not defined by our frailties. Through Scripture and her own experiences, she encourages readers to surrender their struggles to God and discover the freedom and confidence that comes from being dependent on Him.
God's love and presence are not limited to grand, dramatic events, but are also present in the everyday moments of life. By tuning into God's song, which is a constant melody of love and justice, we can find joy and peace despite our circumstances.
God's plan for the lonely in families may not be what we expect, as Psalm 68:6 reveals that He sets the lonely in families and leads forth the prisoners with singing. In this thought-provoking devotion, Marybeth Whalen shares her personal experience of being placed in a family despite her desire for solitude, and invites readers to consider how God's plan can be beautiful even when it challenges our own desires.
Glynnis Whitwer reflects on the pitfalls of announcing New Year's Resolutions, citing biblical principles that caution against boasting and instead emphasize the importance of diligent work. By choosing to invest in her personal standing orders from God rather than seeking external validation, Whitwer finds a more authentic path to achieving her goals.
Ariel Allison reflects on the power of Jesus' parables, which she believes are personal stories that reveal God's grace and holiness in everyday life. By examining these parables, readers can see themselves and their own spiritual journeys, and discover how God's grace works in their lives.
Lysa TerKeurst shares her personal struggle with food and weight, revealing how she had to confront her excuses and rationalizations in order to make a change. Through her journey, she offers practical advice and resources for overcoming similar struggles, encouraging readers to seek spiritual, physical, and mental transformation.