Devotional Archives for Encouragement for Today
As weary hearts struggle with uncertainty and pain, Sarah Freymuth invites readers to lift their eyes to the hills and find comfort in God's presence. Through her personal experience of seeking solace in nature and worshiping amidst life's challenges, she reminds us that our help comes from the Lord, who is faithful, strong, and always present.
A woman's struggle with feeling like she's too much for her loved one is met with a gentle reminder from God that He values and loves her exactly as she is, and that she doesn't have to carry the burden of being perfect on her own. Through a personal reflection on Matthew 6:28-30, Jodi Harris finds comfort in knowing that God has nurtured and brought her to full bloom, just like the roses in her yard, and that He will continue to care for her perfectly if she lets Him.
As Christmas approaches, many of us face unexpected challenges that can complicate our plans, but Mary's story reminds us that God can use what we consider aggravations to reposition us for His blessings and purposes. By embracing a spirit of hope-filled anticipation and waiting on the Lord, we can transform our difficulties into opportunities to honor and magnify Him in our lives.
Lysa TerKeurst explores the tension between wanting to be liked and wanting to please God, encouraging readers to prioritize obedience over people-pleasing in their relationships and daily lives. By examining biblical principles and personal struggles, TerKeurst invites readers to re-evaluate their motivations and focus on pleasing God above all else.
Ferial, a Syrian Christian wife and mother of two, shares her story of finding joy in the midst of crisis and war. Despite facing unimaginable hardships, including fleeing Aleppo with her family and struggling to make ends meet in their new home, Ferial has learned to cultivate gratitude and inner peace through her faith in Jesus.
As a pastor, author, and husband, Carey Nieuwhof shares his personal story of burnout and how he learned to prioritize his heart over his busy schedule, discovering that doing less can lead to far more in serving others and living a life of purpose. By sharing practical advice on how to guard your heart and say "no" to non-essential commitments, Nieuwhof offers a refreshing perspective on what it means to truly thrive in life and leadership.
A young pharmacy employee's humble beginnings in a fast-food restaurant unexpectedly prepared him for his current role, illustrating how God uses all experiences to equip and launch us into His will. By embracing the idea that every challenging experience can be a stepping stone to greater things, we can trust in God's sovereignty and live with faithfulness, even in difficult circumstances.
Jennifer Dukes Lee reflects on the importance of valuing "low-shelf things" in life, such as everyday moments and ordinary experiences, which can bring meaning and joy. By examining biblical examples, including Jesus' emphasis on sparrows being worth more to God than a whole flock, Lee encourages readers to slow down and appreciate the small, often overlooked aspects of their lives.
Lysa TerKeurst shares her personal struggle with fear and how she's learning to make progress in overcoming it, finding comfort in Psalm 91 as a refuge and fortress from life's storms. By embracing the idea of imperfect progress and forming new healing habits, readers can choose to take a step forward in trusting God despite their fears.
Celebrating Jesus' birth is not limited to December 25, but rather a year-round reminder of God's gift of salvation and everlasting hope. By incorporating simple practices into daily life, such as displaying Bible verses on a mini Christmas tree or sharing the gospel with someone in need, believers can keep their spiritual zeal alive throughout the year.