Devotional Archives for Encouragement for Today
Lysa TerKeurst shares her personal struggle with defining life by painful memories and offers a message of hope for moving on from hurtful experiences, suggesting that goodbyes can be more than just a separation, but also an opportunity to let go of pain and hold onto God's grace. By embracing this perspective, readers can learn to whisper "God be with you" over their memories, finding healing and forgiveness in the process.
As a runner, Kia Stephens learned that sometimes it's necessary to slow down and walk when your body tells you to quit. In her latest devotion, she shares how the Bible encourages us to persevere in our faith race, even when we're exhausted, out of breath, and ready to give up.
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.