Devotionals for the Heart: Finding Faith and Joy in Every Season

Embracing Faith and Finding Joy in Every Season
A devotional by Dr. LaVonda McCullough

“Though I walk in the midst of trouble, you preserve my life. You stretch out your hand against the anger of my foes; with your right hand, you save me."–Psalm 138:7 (NIV)

Has your faith ever wavered?

Perhaps joy seems elusive, slipping through your fingers even though you long for the joy God promises. There have been days that I have felt the same way.

Building faith and discovering joy is a journey, one we embark on with small steps each day. Discovering joy with life's challenges is genuine and attainable. The Holy Bible assures us that joy is found in the presence of God, even during difficult times. Trusting in God's guidance, we find safety and comfort, no matter the challenges we face. Therefore, let’s celebrate the joy found in God's presence, confident that He is always with us, guiding and supporting us through every moment.

Through His boundless love and grace, we can experience joy in all circumstances. When I began to internalize these principles and let them transform me, I found peace. I learned how to connect my head knowledge with my heart. Joy could not be sustained if it was always based on my situation or circumstances.

It’s not always easy to be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, or faithful in prayer, but embodying these qualities changes our lives profoundly. In tough times, building your faith and trust in God is crucial. Trusting God doesn’t mean you’ll never face difficulties, but it does mean He will always be with you. When your faith feels shaky, turn to God and seek His help.

There are many ways to strengthen your faith during challenging times. Here’s a shortlist:

1. Spend Time with God: Engage in reading the Bible, praying, and worshipping Him. This daily practice anchors your soul.

2. Serve Others: Acts of service are beautiful reminders of God's love and His call for us to help those in need.

3. Connect with a Faith Community: Surround yourself with like-minded individuals who share your faith, drawing strength and encouragement from their support.

4. Gratitude: Become intentional to write down things you are grateful for daily.

If you're struggling to trust God, remember that He is always faithful. He loves you deeply and desires the best for you. Don’t give up on Him; keep seeking His will for your life. Trusting in God is essential for a fulfilling life. Hold on to your faith tightly, believing that God will carry you through any challenge.

In every moment, let us walk with faith, celebrate God's presence, and embrace the joy He offers, confident that He preserves our lives and guides us with His loving hand.

Let’s Pray: Father God, when my heart feels sad and my faith wavers, please grant me your peace. Help me to meditate on Your Word so that it is hidden in my heart, strengthening my faith. May I be an instrument of love that will point others to you and embrace the joy of my salvation. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Seasons (Live)” by Donald Lawrence and the Tri-City Singers. Listen to it here.

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Author Bio:

Dr. LaVonda McCullough is a Christian Life Coach, author, speaker and pastor who specializes in women empowerment with Christian-based approach. 

Since 2012, LaVonda has coached countless women into compete freedom, teaching them to enhance their spiritual practice. Through one-on-one Coaching, Bible Study, Prayer Walks and retreats (Joyful Journey RefresHER retreat) she teaches women how to reach the divine power within and discover their purpose.

With the foundation of her personal practice the discipline of a Daily Quiet Time, she works closely with those she coaches to develop their own intimate relationship with God. Always using a spirit-led approach, she focusing on the whole person: mind, body, and soul. LaVonda values providing a safe, loving and nurturing environment that allows those she works with to tap into the divine and commune with God themselves.

LaVonda has a deep understanding of healing through intimate relationship with God due to her personal experiences with shame, trauma, loss, and depression.

She is passionate about helping people find freedom and joy in their journey through the cultivation of spiritual practice.

Originally from North Carolina, LaVonda has traveled throughout Europe and Africa speaking about healing through the power of prayer. She has lived in Germany since 2012, where shares her life with her husband of 33 years.

LaVonda and her husband have three children.

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Connect with LaVonda:
Website: https://www.lavondamccullough.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lavondamccullough/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lavondamcculloughauthor
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