Devotionals for the Heart: The cure I discovered for sleepless nights

Say Bye to Insomnia
A devotional by Christine Monteiro

“In vain you rise early and stay up late, toiling for food to eat—for he grants sleep to those he loves.”—Psalm 127:2 (NIV)

Many nights, I found myself questioning God about the trajectory of my life.

Burdened with the responsibility of my mother’s care while barely sustaining myself, the weight became unbearable. When she required surgery without insurance, I was left alone to navigate the overwhelming medical expenses.

Even when the financial issues were eventually solved, insomnia slowly became my best friend. It accompanied me faithfully every night, leaving me alone to entertain my racing thoughts. Therefore, I tried to find comfort in distractions—movies, short stories, testimonies, games—anything that offered hope that I could escape my suffering. I found myself chasing hope in people, trying to duplicate the miracles I saw in other people’s lives. But I never found the formula. In fact, I was drawn deeper into the struggle because my focus was on the wrong place.

One night, out of desperation to sleep, I picked up my Bible. I turned to King David’s story because I know he wrote the Bible book of Psalm during moments of profound sorrow and crying out to God. I hoped to find a formula there but instead, I found something better: I learned that all we need to do is hold on to God’s promises written in His Word (The Holy Bible). God gave me the promise of peace that night and He promised me that He will take care of me.

The Spiritual Root of Insomnia

After 11 months of struggle, I realized that the insomnia I carried wasn't just about my body; it was about my soul. I realized that my sleeplessness was fueled by these four factors: overthinking and the fear of losing control, stressful thoughts about tomorrow, trying to solve my problems in life with my own strength, and carrying responsibilities that God never asked me to carry alone.

I realized that even sleeping pills won't work in helping you to sleep if your brain won’t shut down. It is an excruciating moment when you take a sleeping pill to help you sleep, but it fails because your mind is still racing with worry.

Surrendering the Burden

Jesus Christ offers a different solution in Matthew 11:28 (NIV) where He says, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” He offers to take the burden away. Jesus doesn't ask us to be perfectly composed and presentable before we approach Him. We simply need to come to Him when we are exhausted.

Here is how I learned to say goodbye to insomnia:

Acknowledge the Source: Since God created us, we must go to Him for the fix.

Daily Surrender: I came to Him every day, asking Him to fix the way my brain works.

Cast Your Anxiety on God: As 1 Peter 5:7 (NIV) says, “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.”

God isn't annoyed by your fears; He is waiting to carry them.

A Call to Rest

As we end this year, I encourage you to let go of the anxieties, fears, and worries that you own. Let this be the year you stop fighting battles that are already won by God. Let this be the year you learn to sleep like someone who is protected, loved, and held by the Creator of the Universe.

“In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety.”

—Psalm 4:8 (NIV)

God cares about your rest and your sleep. Surrender is not losing; it is falling into the hands of Someone who won’t drop you.

Let’s Pray:

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank You for being the Father I can call Abba. You promised to give me comfort in my troubled moments. Please forgive us for doubting that You will take care of us. Give us the strength to go through life and keep walking by Your side. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “Still” by Hillsong. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “Sparrows” by Cory Asbury. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “Peace Be Still” by Hope Darst covered by Lauren Daigle / The Belonging Co / All The Earth. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Christine Monteiro is a certified transformative coach, writer, and keynote speaker who is passionate about helping others navigate the complexities of purpose, personal growth, and resilience. 

Christine’s journey to becoming a coach started four years ago, following the loss of her husband to brain cancer. That experience left her feeling as though she had lost her purpose—a feeling she deeply understands in clients who she works with now. Through self-discovery and training, Christine found the missing pieces in her life and regained her purpose and drive that now motivates her to help others.

Christine coaches her clients from all walks of life—from young adults to retirees—helping them to embrace change, set meaningful goals, and confidently pursue their dreams. She has received training through Creative Results Management and holds credentials from the International Coaching Federation (ICF). Christine also has certifications in Positive Psychology and Mental Health Coaching from Yale and Light University. Her diverse approach to coaching her clients combines empathy with strategic insight, helping them to navigate every stage of life.

When she writes, Christine likes to focus on topics like finding purpose, coping with grief, and achieving personal transformation. As she writes, Christine draws from her own experiences as a single mom and empty nester. She enjoys sharing these insights on various platforms to reach a wider audience and foster community support.

When not coaching or writing, Christine spends her time sipping black coffee and swimming in the pool. She has found that having three independent children gives her a privilege to have a lot of “me time” that she didn’t have when they were growing up.

Devotionals for the Heart: Learning to trust God and wait on His timing

God’s Timing is the Best
A devotional by Christine Monteiro

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”—Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV)

The past twelve months have been a real challenge for me. I feel like I am losing direction in life, and I can’t see beyond what is in front of me in a very close range.

I have doubts about many things and opportunities that lie before my eyes. I waited for what I thought was the best timing. I was juggling decisions. Every night, after I pray to God, I spend my time with ChatGPT. Wondering around, I wish God would work in that way. When you ask, He will directly speak to you—answering all your questions. I wondered why God doesn’t work like ChatGPT, giving all the positive and encouraging answers right away.

Slowly but surely, I made a bold decision—starting with straightening my finances, recalculating, structuring debt, and cutting many expenses. I’ve been ignoring things I should have done for a long time. Sometimes, doing the right thing can be scary. But miraculously, when I did the right thing by letting go of my fear, suddenly my anxiety subsided and things started to flow nicely. I’ve learned that God’s blessings are not only for me, but also for my children. Everything came on time for them: the food they needed, the money to pay their tuition for college, and a job for extra cash. I would never have guessed God would work the way He did. He left me in awe. I am grateful for what He has done for me.

Several years ago, I met a man who captured my heart. But at that time, neither of us was ready for a commitment. Our previous marriages have hurt us both. I was afraid of losing a spouse again. The death of my husband was traumatic enough, and I don’t want to experience that again. But who can guarantee someone’s life?

For years, I have tried to convince myself to toughen my heart and to believe that no one can guarantee a perfect future or everlasting life…until last month, when I decided to say yes to his proposal. Within three weeks, we planned our intimate, simple wedding with only eight people as our witnesses. It takes courage to enter a new journey. But I’m looking forward to this new chapter in my life story. It feels like I took a ton of weight off my shoulders. It feels incredible to feel loved, and the thought that I don’t have to go through life alone anymore. I can see God’s blessing upon my new marriage.

I had to make a decision not just to get married but to quit my job which was something I’d been putting off for months because I was so worried. Every time I thought about it, anxiety rose within me. It is scary to think about quitting my job and starting a new life with someone different. Funny enough, a day after I declared my new life, my boss allowed me to quit my job. We’d spoken about this for months, but he never approved my request to stop working for him. One thing I know then and now: God is in control. Proof that God is with me was in every single decision I made—the right decision, the right path, as He wanted me to do. I am now facing another level of faith because I want to pursue my calling. A calling that will make my life purposeful: A life where I can do ministry for the teens and run my coaching business at the same time. I am passionate about this life that I feel called to live. I am starting to see how God guides my path step by step. Just like Proverbs 3:5-6 says, God will make your paths straight.

I have many reasons to worry about pursuing my passion. I still have to support two kids in college and another one next year, but I am confident that God will show me the right path to take. Uncertainty has a way of drawing me closer to God as I keep seeking Him for strength. I’ve learned that God never wastes our time. He aligns things in our lives when we align our hearts with His. When you are in God’s waiting room, don’t panic, because He is still moving. When things happen, it will feel effortless. Not because it’s easy, but because it’s right.

I didn’t understand God’s timing when I was in the middle of a confusing time. But now I’m living inside the answered prayer. And I realized God was never late. I was just early. His timing is always best!

Let’s Pray:

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank You for being involved in every decision I’ve ever made. Thank You for proving that You will never leave me nor forsake me. Thank You for the mercy and love that you’ve shown me amid my confusion. Help me to keep believing in You and walking on the right path by your side. I need your guidance in my life. I am so grateful that I can call you Abba Father, whom I can rely on. In Jesus’s name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “In His Time” by Maranatha Music. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “Oceans (Where Feet May Fail)” by Hillsong UNITED. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “Goodness of God” by Cece Winans. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Christine Monteiro is a certified transformative coach, writer, and keynote speaker who is passionate about helping others navigate the complexities of purpose, personal growth, and resilience. 

Christine’s journey to becoming a coach started four years ago, following the loss of her husband to brain cancer. That experience left her feeling as though she had lost her purpose—a feeling she deeply understands in clients who she works with now. Through self-discovery and training, Christine found the missing pieces in her life and regained her purpose and drive that now motivates her to help others.

Christine coaches her clients from all walks of life—from young adults to retirees—helping them to embrace change, set meaningful goals, and confidently pursue their dreams. She has received training through Creative Results Management and holds credentials from the International Coaching Federation (ICF). Christine also has certifications in Positive Psychology and Mental Health Coaching from Yale and Light University. Her diverse approach to coaching her clients combines empathy with strategic insight, helping them to navigate every stage of life.

When she writes, Christine likes to focus on topics like finding purpose, coping with grief, and achieving personal transformation. As she writes, Christine draws from her own experiences as a single mom and empty nester. She enjoys sharing these insights on various platforms to reach a wider audience and foster community support.

When not coaching or writing, Christine spends her time sipping black coffee and swimming in the pool. She has found that having three independent children gives her a privilege to have a lot of “me time” that she didn’t have when they were growing up.

Devotionals for the Heart: When you realize God is faithful through it all

God is Faithful
A devotional by Christine Monteiro

“So do not fear, for I am with you;

do not be dismayed, for I am your God.

I will strengthen you and help you;

I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

—Isaiah 41:10 (NIV)

This year has been one of the hardest for me.

In many areas of life, I feel slammed to the ground. My heart has gone numb, and I feel like I’ve lost myself. Day by day, I just survive—carrying out responsibilities even when it means doing things I despise. The world makes me feel unworthy and unseen, no matter how hard I try. I stumble, lose balance, and question my purpose.

I often ask myself, What am I even fighting for? It feels like I’m wrestling the wind—facing endless, unseen struggles. Each night I come home from the office physically and emotionally drained. For months now I’ve stood alone, holding myself up, with no one truly understanding my pain. I spin inside the storm, not knowing when it will end. In that endless waiting, I lose the energy to survive. At times, all I want is for someone to rescue me.

Recently, I felt urged to go to church even though I hadn’t wanted to for months. The sermon wasn’t a structured teaching but more of a testimony from an elderly pastor. At age 70, he had lived through many ups and downs with God, leaving a legacy by building schools for underprivileged children. His mission is simple—providing hope for those who might never dream of education.

Honestly, I went to church because the topic of the day was about finances. I was desperate for a glimpse of hope, a way to escape my burdens while supporting both my family and my sick mother. At first, I couldn’t follow the speaker’s message. But then he said something that pierced me. He said, “We don’t know what will happen tomorrow, but one thing I know: As long as I have the opportunity to serve the Lord, I will do it.”

The pastor reminded us that life’s true purpose is not in what we demand but in what we give. Proverbs 19:17 (NIV) echoed in my heart: “Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will reward them for what they have done.”

In that moment, my own vision resurfaced—the vision to help unfortunate teens. I realized how buried I had become in my personal suffering.

The pastor then shared about his seven grandchildren—three of them in top, expensive universities. Yet God provided for all of it. His story reminded me of my own daughter. She was accepted into a prestigious university I could never have afforded on my own. Still, God made a way.

I broke down, overwhelmed with tears. How could I forget His faithfulness? For all the essentials of life, God never failed to provide. Yet I had been demanding, ungrateful, and impatient, trying to force God to remove my pain instead of trusting His plan.

Responding to God’s call is never easy. He doesn’t hand us a full blueprint; He asks for obedience—one faithful step at a time. I had learned this lesson before, but somehow, I forgot. As fragile and forgetful humans, we are quick to doubt. But God, full of grace, never abandons us. His love is not transactional. He loves us simply because we belong to Him.

Philippians 4:7 (NIV) comforts me. It says, “The peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” That is the peace I need to refocus.

Now, as I cling once again to His promises, I feel His peace covering me. The storm around me has not vanished, but my heart has shifted. I know my next step: to repent for doubting Him and to walk forward with renewed faith.

Where have you been demanding answers from God instead of trusting His step-by-step leading?

Let’s Pray:

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank You for your unconditional love and mercy for me. I often fail to trust You. Even though You pulled me out of the pit many times, I still doubted You. Please forgive my sin and my doubtfulness toward You. When I feel challenged, remind me that You never leave me nor forsake me. Thank You for reminding me that I need to surrender to your perfect plan. It is your agenda, not mine. Please Lord, never tired of reminding me. I will be still and know that You are God until I can see your perfect timing. In Jesus’s name I pray, Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “Deserved” by Anthony Brown & Group Therapy. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “Great is Thy Faithfulness” by Carrie Underwood ft. Cece Winans. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “Faithful God” by I AM THEY. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #4: “Yes And Amen” by Chris Tomlin. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #5: “Constant” by Maverick City, Jordin Sparks, Anthony Gargiula | Ft. Chandler Moore. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #6: "He's Been Faithful" featuring TaRanda with The Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #7: "Through It All" by Andrae Crouch. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Christine Monteiro is a certified transformative coach, writer, and keynote speaker who is passionate about helping others navigate the complexities of purpose, personal growth, and resilience. 

Christine’s journey to becoming a coach started four years ago, following the loss of her husband to brain cancer. That experience left her feeling as though she had lost her purpose—a feeling she deeply understands in clients who she works with now. Through self-discovery and training, Christine found the missing pieces in her life and regained her purpose and drive that now motivates her to help others.

Christine coaches her clients from all walks of life—from young adults to retirees—helping them to embrace change, set meaningful goals, and confidently pursue their dreams. She has received training through Creative Results Management and holds credentials from the International Coaching Federation (ICF). Christine also has certifications in Positive Psychology and Mental Health Coaching from Yale and Light University. Her diverse approach to coaching her clients combines empathy with strategic insight, helping them to navigate every stage of life.

When she writes, Christine likes to focus on topics like finding purpose, coping with grief, and achieving personal transformation. As she writes, Christine draws from her own experiences as a single mom and empty nester. She enjoys sharing these insights on various platforms to reach a wider audience and foster community support.

When not coaching or writing, Christine spends her time sipping black coffee and swimming in the pool. She has found that having three independent children gives her a privilege to have a lot of “me time” that she didn’t have when they were growing up.

Devotionals for the Heart: When Jesus Christ calls you into ministry

Answering the Call from Jesus Christ
A devotional by Christine Monteiro

“Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.”—Galatians 1:10 (NIV)

I was lying on my bed, staring at the ceiling, trying to fall asleep, but my thoughts wouldn't stop circling.

My mind was filled with questions. I asked myself: Should I continue with the ministry? I thought God called me into ministry. Ever since I met my Savior (Jesus Christ), there was no doubt in my mind that I wanted to dedicate my life to serving Him, in whatever field He called me into to serve His people.

Over the years, God has shaped my heart for ministry through real-life experiences. Twenty-five years have gone by since I surrendered myself to God and not a day goes by that I want to try to run away. Instead, I want to equip myself to do His work.

When Jesus walked on this Earth gathering His disciples, it didn’t seem to me to be a complicated process. He used a personal approach that required a radical and sometimes immediate commitment from those He chose. Jesus didn’t conduct a lengthy interview with each disciple. He didn't ask about their educational background, their ministry portfolio, or any references. Maybe that was because Jesus knew all about them? One thing I believe is that He calls out ordinary people who are willing to serve Him, regardless of the circumstances, because ministry is a personal invitation from God.

For many years, I waited to be in the ministry. I try to equip myself by being involved in a church and belonging to one. But after many years, I am facing rejection and being overlooked, and I have no idea why. However, one thing I’m certain of is that my unique approach to loving broken people makes me feel left out.

After my husband passed away, I pursued the coaching profession because I wanted to help as many people as possible to find their purpose in life. So, I became a certified coach. After many years of practice, I thought I could start helping in ministry. I enjoyed being asked to preach or share my story about my brokenness and talk about how God restored and helped me during my dark moments. I tried to join a mission organization and obtain a scholarship through an organization but found that I am not qualified.

I’ve learned that an organization may have rules and boxes for you to check, but God’s Kingdom doesn’t run on man-made checklists. Ministry is not limited to pulpits or titles; it happens in daily life, in homes, in workplaces, in conversations.

What qualifies someone for ministry isn’t institutional approval but faithfulness to God. Faithful ministry is fueled by love, humility, and a spirit of obedience. Read 1 Samuel 16:7, Micah 6:8 and 2 Corinthians 3:5-6 for details. If I want to wait until I can meet every organizational standard, I will continue to chase approval and validation from humankind then I might never experience serving God.

I believe that God will open new doors for me. I will carry out my ministry in my personal life, at my job, through my writing, and in my coaching. Colossians 3:23-24 (NIV) says, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” I strive to achieve that Biblical standard of ministry.

Maybe you too feel rejected by people. But remember: God has not rejected you. Read Christ’s words to His disciples in John 15:16 (NIV), “You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you.”

Maybe people have rejected you, but God hasn’t. If He called you into ministry then that calling cannot be taken away by human qualifications. Ministry is not about where you serve, but who you serve.

Let’s Pray:

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank You for your mercy and grace in my life. Your never-ending love gives me the strength to survive and thrive. Thank You for reminding me that ministry is not about human qualifications but about Your calling. Even if people reject me, I know You have chosen me. Help me to live faithfully for Christ and to minister in every place You send me, with humility and courage. In Jesus’s name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “The Potter’s Hand” by Darlene Zschech. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “Nobody” by Casting Crowns ft. Matthew West. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “The Cause of Christ” by Kari Jobe. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #4: “Who You Say I Am” by Hillsong Worship. Listen to it here.

~*~

Author Bio:

Christine Monteiro is a certified transformative coach, writer, and keynote speaker who is passionate about helping others navigate the complexities of purpose, personal growth, and resilience. 

Christine’s journey to becoming a coach started four years ago, following the loss of her husband to brain cancer. That experience left her feeling as though she had lost her purpose—a feeling she deeply understands in clients who she works with now. Through self-discovery and training, Christine found the missing pieces in her life and regained her purpose and drive that now motivates her to help others.

Christine coaches her clients from all walks of life—from young adults to retirees—helping them to embrace change, set meaningful goals, and confidently pursue their dreams. She has received training through Creative Results Management and holds credentials from the International Coaching Federation (ICF). Christine also has certifications in Positive Psychology and Mental Health Coaching from Yale and Light University. Her diverse approach to coaching her clients combines empathy with strategic insight, helping them to navigate every stage of life.

When she writes, Christine likes to focus on topics like finding purpose, coping with grief, and achieving personal transformation. As she writes, Christine draws from her own experiences as a single mom and empty nester. She enjoys sharing these insights on various platforms to reach a wider audience and foster community support.

When not coaching or writing, Christine spends her time sipping black coffee and swimming in the pool. She has found that having three independent children gives her a privilege to have a lot of “me time” that she didn’t have when they were growing up.

Devotionals for the Heart: How to measure our love for God and others

God’s KPI: Measuring Love, Not Just Numbers
A devotional by Christine Monteiro

“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”—John 13:34-35 (NIV)

We as Christians are taught to love one another, care for each other, and give them comfort when they are in need. But sometimes it is hard to follow that advice.

People’s lives are getting more demanding day by day. The busyness of life with priorities, the test of making the right decisions, and the accelerating pace of daily living leave no time to think or have quiet moments.

Living in the world’s biggest Muslim country has its challenges. We as Christians are outnumbered. The mix between the two religions is no longer obvious because families are mixed and friendships are blended between people of different faiths. It is hard to stand and be “the light” (Matthew 5:14-16) and “the salt” (Matthew 5:13) because we normalize many things. Yet, we are called to be different by showing God’s love.

In the world of business, KPIs (Key Performance Indicator) are not a foreign topic. In a company, we are required to create a KPI both for our department and ourselves. When we put in our KPI, all we talk about are numbers. They measure success with numbers noting everything from sales to growth to followers and to profits. All aspects should be measurable, as the KPI will directly impact our salary increase and bonuses. Therefore, we are all motivated to put our best effort into achieving the KPI so we can receive better compensation.

In some Christian mission organizations, they also apply KPIs to measure the effectiveness of sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to note the number of souls reached within a year. I found it interesting because in my experience, we have our part in sharing the Gospel, but it is the Holy Spirit who works in an individual’s heart to accept Jesus Christ. Many Christians feel pressured to produce results and note how many people we’ve evangelized, how many programs we run and how many followers are in our ministry.

I started to think about it. I observed that some organizations are more excited about mass outreach rather than a personal approach, which might take more time. It seems that time becomes less efficient when spent one-on-one versus having an event. Not to mention that church members also need to care for each other. If we can’t care amongst other Christians, how can we become a witness to the unbeliever? While evangelism is crucial (Matthew 28:19-20), God never asked us to trade discipleship and care for the sake of statistics.

Sometimes we’re so focused on reaching outsiders that we neglect brothers and sisters right next to us who are hurting. God’s Word (The Holy Bible) encourages us to do good to all people, especially to minister to our family of believers. Galatians 6:10 (NIV) says, “Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.”

I want to believe that God’s KPI is different than what we have in our mind. God measures not how many we reached, but how faithfully we loved. KPI in the kingdom is different. It looks like this (see the three Bible verses below):

· Love for one another (1 John 3:16-18)

· Care for the overlooked (Matthew 25:40)

· Faithfulness in small things (Luke 16:10)

The early church wasn’t known for “conversion count” but for community living, generosity, and unity (Acts 2:42-47). This Biblical truth makes me ask myself questions daily such as: Am I checking in on fellow believers who are struggling? Do I encourage and build up the body of Christ, or do I only look outward?

Evangelism is vital, but discipleship and love for the family of faith must not be abandoned. Hebrews 10:24-25 (NIV) says, “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”

I am reaching out to our fellow Christians to help me continue to grow in my faith walk and my relationship with Jesus Christ. Remembering God’s KPI instead of the standard business KPI will make us do what Christ wants us to do. The only thing that makes us different from others in our faith is the love of Christ for all of us.

Let’s Pray:

Lord, help me to see people the way You do. Teach me to love my brothers and sisters in Christ with patience and care. Keep me faithful in discipleship, not chasing numbers but living out Your KPI of faithfulness, love, and obedience. May my life reflect your kingdom values. In Jesus’s name I pray, Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “The Cause of Christ” by Kari Jobe. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “By Our Love” by Christy Nockels. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “They’ll Know We Are Christians by Our Love” by Jars of Clay. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Christine Monteiro is a certified transformative coach, writer, and keynote speaker who is passionate about helping others navigate the complexities of purpose, personal growth, and resilience. 

Christine’s journey to becoming a coach started four years ago, following the loss of her husband to brain cancer. That experience left her feeling as though she had lost her purpose—a feeling she deeply understands in clients who she works with now. Through self-discovery and training, Christine found the missing pieces in her life and regained her purpose and drive that now motivates her to help others.

Christine coaches her clients from all walks of life—from young adults to retirees—helping them to embrace change, set meaningful goals, and confidently pursue their dreams. She has received training through Creative Results Management and holds credentials from the International Coaching Federation (ICF). Christine also has certifications in Positive Psychology and Mental Health Coaching from Yale and Light University. Her diverse approach to coaching her clients combines empathy with strategic insight, helping them to navigate every stage of life.

When she writes, Christine likes to focus on topics like finding purpose, coping with grief, and achieving personal transformation. As she writes, Christine draws from her own experiences as a single mom and empty nester. She enjoys sharing these insights on various platforms to reach a wider audience and foster community support.

When not coaching or writing, Christine spends her time sipping black coffee and swimming in the pool. She has found that having three independent children gives her a privilege to have a lot of “me time” that she didn’t have when they were growing up.

Devotionals for the Heart: The beauty in being humble and obeying God

The Beauty of being Humble and Obeying God
A devotional by Christine Monteiro

“After removing Saul, he made David their king. God testified concerning him: ‘I have found David son of Jesse, a man after my own heart; he will do everything I want him to do’.”—Acts 13:22 (NIV)

Lately, I've been questioning myself because my mind has been wandering with so many life events that I think are unfair. I somehow started to lose focus on my life.

I am now busy focusing on my suffering and how to end this. I began to compare my situation to others. How come the wicked can live better than I do? Why do their lives seem so perfect and pain-free even when they wreak havoc in the lives of other people? I started to question myself. Did I upset God? Is He punishing me? Did I not hear Him speaking to me? What does God want me to do? I become numb with my thinking. Deep inside, I believe that despite the hardship I am facing, God has a purpose for my pain. But at the same time, I am tired of experiencing hardship.

One day, the Bible story of King David captured my thoughts. I started to recall his story. I started reading a book about him, as well as doing devotions about this king’s life. I was fascinated by wanting to know about his life and how God still blessed King David despite his wrongdoing. I started to envy him because despite King David’s sins of adultery and murder, God still saw him as a man after His own heart. Suddenly, I realized that being blessed is not about being sinless. The Bible says in Matthew 5:45 (NIV), that God, “causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.”

Sometimes, we unfairly judge other people’s lives based on what we see, but we forget that God has His own opinion of everyone and perspective on life. God had a different idea about King David. God said in Acts 13:22 (NIV), “he will do everything I want him to do.” When I read that part, I felt like God had high confidence in King David to the point where he knew David would do everything God wanted. I wonder if I have the capability of obeying God in the same way.

How can I, in this modern-day, make God so confident in me that He knows I will do whatever He wants us to do? This part of the Bible story resonated with me deeply. I realized that it doesn't matter how hard I try to impress God because He knows my heart better than anybody else. My attempts to impress other people in the name of God is known to God. He sees my true intentions and reads my heart.

The only thing that God wants us to know is that He is the God of grace. We don't need to pretend to get validation from others. Just like David before he was king and known as a man after God’s heart (1 Samuel 13:14), people saw him as a young shepherd boy who is incapable of many things. But God has a different perspective. He saw the future king in David. We need to learn how to see ourselves as God sees us. We need to not listen to the world’s perspective but ask God to help us see from a higher perspective. We need to humble ourselves before the Lord then He will lift us up (James 4:10).

Being humble will look different in this world because the world is filled with arrogant people who put self before God. However, we need to learn not to depend on the world’s validation, but to focus on how God sees us. By practicing humility, we are being His salt in this earth (Matthew 5:13) and light in this dark world (Matthew 5:14-16). It takes practice to be salt and light in this world for God, but we can properly represent Him with His help. And by obeying His Word (The Holy Bible), we can overcome every obstacle.

Let's Pray:

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for your perspective on us and your grace on our lives. Being humble is not easy. Our hearts sometimes harden due to our foolishness, and we remain in a comfort zone that is too comfortable. We often forget how to align with your heart and make you confident in us, knowing that we will do anything you ask. I pray that we become like King David who remembered to return to You no matter how far away from You he felt because of His sins. Teach me how to humble myself and be willing to trust You as you mold me into who You want me to be in this life on Earth. Help me to obey You every day. In Jesus’s Name I pray, Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “Run to the Father” by Cody Carnes. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “So Will I (100 Billion X)” by Hillsong Worship. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “Heart of God” by Hillsong Worship. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #4: “Humble Yourself” by Maranatha! Music. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Christine Monteiro is a certified transformative coach, writer, and keynote speaker who is passionate about helping others navigate the complexities of purpose, personal growth, and resilience. 

Christine’s journey to becoming a coach started four years ago, following the loss of her husband to brain cancer. That experience left her feeling as though she had lost her purpose—a feeling she deeply understands in clients who she works with now. Through self-discovery and training, Christine found the missing pieces in her life and regained her purpose and drive that now motivates her to help others.

Christine coaches her clients from all walks of life—from young adults to retirees—helping them to embrace change, set meaningful goals, and confidently pursue their dreams. She has received training through Creative Results Management and holds credentials from the International Coaching Federation (ICF). Christine also has certifications in Positive Psychology and Mental Health Coaching from Yale and Light University. Her diverse approach to coaching her clients combines empathy with strategic insight, helping them to navigate every stage of life.

When she writes, Christine likes to focus on topics like finding purpose, coping with grief, and achieving personal transformation. As she writes, Christine draws from her own experiences as a single mom and empty nester. She enjoys sharing these insights on various platforms to reach a wider audience and foster community support.

When not coaching or writing, Christine spends her time sipping black coffee and swimming in the pool. She has found that having three independent children gives her a privilege to have a lot of “me time” that she didn’t have when they were growing up.

Devotionals for the Heart: How to heal after a relationship wounded you

Relationships After Woundedness
A devotional by Christine Monteiro

“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.”

—Proverbs 4:23 (NIV)

Starting a relationship is never easy, especially after you are used to being alone or when you grow into knowing who you are and your worth. Sometimes, I used to wonder why the smallest things would trigger silence or sarcasm in a relationship.

Why does the love he talked about feel more like a performance test that is so hard to pass? Then I realized I was standing in the fallout of someone else’s wound. A profound wound that can triggered easily.

Unhealed trauma doesn’t just live inside the person, it leaks. It leaks into conversations, into decisions, into love. And if you are not careful, it will start changing you too. In the beginning, I thought it was me because I was not used to a relationship and tend to feel foreign with new people in my life. Sometimes, I still hang on to the past. The nights began to feel heavy and draining. I felt like I was walking on eggshells because I had to think carefully before I speak or do something to prevent a quarrel or misunderstanding. I started to lose myself. I begin to crave peace. Suddenly, Hebrews 12:14-15 starts to make sense to me. It is an encouragement to make peace with everyone.

About 20 years ago, I joined a group called Beauty from Ashes for the first time. I joined that group because I knew I was broken and needed to be healed in so many areas of my life. I feel like I'm having a hard time relating to people, especially in a romantic relationship. I never felt enough love and was afraid of rejection. I was very sensitive. I get offended easily when I feel insecure. I realized I was suffering from that feeling. So, at that time, I wanted to grow and learn how to outgrow my insecurity. I needed to overcome my trauma and pull out the root cause of my insecurity.

The way I coped with relationships was I made excuses for the behavior of others toward me. I started adjusting myself to avoid their reactions. I tried to please everybody, even when I disagreed with them. Slowly but surely, I began to lose myself. Who I am and who I imagine myself to have become different people.

The Beauty from Ashes group session was brutal. It literally beat me up deeply, especially when it touched my childhood. I finally was able to find the root cause that made me suffer and unhappy with life. I thought if I loved them right, they would like me, and I can feel safe. But it's not a reward for our love. It's a surrender they must make to God. I started to seek and hold on to God more. I put my insecurity in then hands of Jesus Christ and learned how to trust Him more. I began to create boundaries and not let anybody use me or take advantage of my kindness. I learned that forgiveness didn't mean I had to stay. It meant I no longer allowed their pain to become my prison. Because sometimes, we never know that there are people who have more pain around us and we don't realize but then we blame ourselves.

Boundaries protect you. It's like building a fence around your house and you decide who can walk past it. It is the way to protect yourself. Because I am healed now, when I see the potential of somebody trying to hurt me or use me, I can immediately sense it and withdraw myself from such a relationship. You have the discernment for the toxic person. By having that discernment, you protect yourself from trouble.

Having a relationship with people who are wounded is not easy. If you are not equipped or willing to endure it, you can step out and pray for them and offer help, not when you are in the relationship. Some people struggle to recognize that they are wounded. Some become comfortable with their pain. It is God’s job to heal them. We have to put them in God’s hands to be healed. 

Let's Pray:

Dear Heavenly Father, 

I am thankful that You sent us the Holy Spirit to be with us always. Thank You for the discernment that You give us when we listen to your Holy Spirit and trust our gut. I lift up people who hurt me—not in anger but in mercy. Heal what I cannot. Restore what I've lost. And teach me to walk in freedom, even when others choose to stay wounded. I am grateful to have you as my Healer. I pray that the Holy Spirit will comfort and heal those who are wounded. In Jesus's Name, I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “Jesus is My Healer” by Gateway Worship. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “Whisper of Your Grace” by Pulse Tracks. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “You Restore My Soul” by New Wine Worship. Listen to it here.

~*~

Author Bio:

Christine Monteiro is a certified transformative coach, writer, and keynote speaker who is passionate about helping others navigate the complexities of purpose, personal growth, and resilience. 

Christine’s journey to becoming a coach started four years ago, following the loss of her husband to brain cancer. That experience left her feeling as though she had lost her purpose—a feeling she deeply understands in clients who she works with now. Through self-discovery and training, Christine found the missing pieces in her life and regained her purpose and drive that now motivates her to help others.

Christine coaches her clients from all walks of life—from young adults to retirees—helping them to embrace change, set meaningful goals, and confidently pursue their dreams. She has received training through Creative Results Management and holds credentials from the International Coaching Federation (ICF). Christine also has certifications in Positive Psychology and Mental Health Coaching from Yale and Light University. Her diverse approach to coaching her clients combines empathy with strategic insight, helping them to navigate every stage of life.

When she writes, Christine likes to focus on topics like finding purpose, coping with grief, and achieving personal transformation. As she writes, Christine draws from her own experiences as a single mom and empty nester. She enjoys sharing these insights on various platforms to reach a wider audience and foster community support.

When not coaching or writing, Christine spends her time sipping black coffee and swimming in the pool. She has found that having three independent children gives her a privilege to have a lot of “me time” that she didn’t have when they were growing up.

Devotionals for the Heart: How I am learning to surrender all to God

Surrender in Layers: Not One and Done
A devotional by Christine Monteiro

“Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”—Philippians 3:13-14 (NIV)

I learned to surrender my parenting rights and concerns to God when I sent my girls from Indonesia to the United States of America last year.

I knew I needed to let go as they grow up, find their way, and spread their wings. I thought that when I had the funeral for my husband, that would be my last surrender.

I thought surrender was a one-time graduation. It turns out that it is more like a subscription model with no cancel button. It keeps going throughout my life. That subscription of surrendering comes with a manual book (The Holy Bible). Reading the Bible will comfort you as you learn how to maintain that subscription.

Recently, I accepted an invitation to meet someone. It was an impromptu invitation, and at first, I was too lazy to go. I just want to spend my Sunday resting and enjoying my alone time. I didn’t plan to go anywhere, but I went anyway. When I arrived, the only available seat was in front of him. I had no other choice, so I sat in front of him. At first glance, I liked what I saw. I liked his knowledge as a Christian; he knows what he is talking about. That attracted me because I was hoping to meet someone who doesn’t only to say he is a Christian, but a man who understands and fears God.

I thought this could be a potential new life partner. Maybe this is what redemption looks like—new love after loss. There was a little hope that maybe he is the one. Much speculation played around in my mind. There are lots of ifs. Long story short, we got hooked quickly. In the beginning, we had a good relationship since we both spoke the same language of ministry. Yet, I wasn’t expecting the tension. He said he loved God. I thought that would mean he’d understand my story and even honor it. But suddenly, the pictures of my late husband made him uneasy. My posts about grief made him feel as if he was walking in my late husband’s shadow and this caused my new love interest to feel small. I didn’t know how to respond because I hadn’t realized I still had so many deep ties to what used to be.

It wasn’t about clinging to the past. I had spent years letting go of routines, security, and the man who held my heart. But now I was being asked to let go again, this time of my solitude. My space. The quiet I had worked so hard to rebuild, and it felt like too much. Like I was being asked to evict a memory just to welcome someone who hadn’t yet earned that space. This hurt me not because it was wrong, but because it was real. This was another layer of surrender. One I didn’t know I’d held so tightly.

I realized something uncomfortable: This wasn’t a surrender like the ones I’d done before. This time, I wasn’t grieving a loss. I was resisting a new beginning. And the resistance wasn’t coming from tragedy … it was coming from me holding onto the past and at the same time, trying to protect my peace in the present.

I had grown used to doing life on my terms. It was a quiet and predictable lifestyle that was all mine. But now, God was asking for something new: space for someone else. Space that used to be sacred, now needs to be shared. And I didn’t want to give it up, not because I didn’t care about this new man, but because I didn’t want to lose myself in the process. In the Bible, the Apostle Paul talks about “forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead”. That’s not about erasing our past; it’s about loosening our grip on it so we can receive what’s next. I wasn’t betraying my late husband by making room for this new relationship. I was obeying God by trusting Him with the next chapter in the story of my life.

I thought I was just being asked to let go of cherished memories, but I was being asked to let someone into my life. And that kind of surrender felt scarier than grief. I had become so good at doing life alone that I didn’t realize how tightly I was holding onto it. Peace had become my protector. Routine had become my comfort. Now, love was asking me to trade those things in for uncertainty, for compromise, for presence. It was a new layer of surrender that I didn’t see coming.

Surrender doesn’t always come wrapped in loss. Sometimes it comes in disguise as opportunity, like love. As someone knocking on your door, asking for a place at the table. And in those moments, we get to decide if we trust God enough to say yes.

Let’s Pray:

Dear Father in Heaven,

I thank You for your love in my life. Your never-ending love brings me the security that I need. Even though sometimes as a human, I am longing for more. But I am glad that you never fail to show me your love that is pure and unconditional. Help us to see how much You love humankind. Teach us how to reflect on our lives. Show us how to surrender to You in every aspect of our life. It is not easy but with time and revelation from You, we are able to give all to You. Sometimes we have to hit rock bottom to surrender, but we know that is because You love us. Teach us to be more discerning and sensitive to your voice. In Jesus’s name, I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “Without You” by Parachute Band. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “Press On” by Selah. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “I Surrender All” by Clay Crosse. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #4: “I Surrender” by Hillsong Worship. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Christine Monteiro is a certified transformative coach, writer, and keynote speaker who is passionate about helping others navigate the complexities of purpose, personal growth, and resilience. 

Christine’s journey to becoming a coach started four years ago, following the loss of her husband to brain cancer. That experience left her feeling as though she had lost her purpose—a feeling she deeply understands in clients who she works with now. Through self-discovery and training, Christine found the missing pieces in her life and regained her purpose and drive that now motivates her to help others.

Christine coaches her clients from all walks of life—from young adults to retirees—helping them to embrace change, set meaningful goals, and confidently pursue their dreams. She has received training through Creative Results Management and holds credentials from the International Coaching Federation (ICF). Christine also has certifications in Positive Psychology and Mental Health Coaching from Yale and Light University. Her diverse approach to coaching her clients combines empathy with strategic insight, helping them to navigate every stage of life.

When she writes, Christine likes to focus on topics like finding purpose, coping with grief, and achieving personal transformation. As she writes, Christine draws from her own experiences as a single mom and empty nester. She enjoys sharing these insights on various platforms to reach a wider audience and foster community support.

When not coaching or writing, Christine spends her time sipping black coffee and swimming in the pool. She has found that having three independent children gives her a privilege to have a lot of “me time” that she didn’t have when they were growing up.

Devotionals for the Heart: Life lessons learned on having a good name

Making Space for Godly Relationships
A devotional by Christine Monteiro

“A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold.”—Proverbs 22:1 (NIV)

I've read Proverbs 22:1 many times but it never clicked until I experienced it myself.

I used to think that, over time, people will get over anything that ruined your name, and your name will be restored. Maybe that is true when you’re in a larger audience, such as in social media where people will forget quickly when other news fills their feed. But not when you are in a smaller community, meeting people on a daily basis. In those type of environments, it will take a while to make people forget. I asked myself, “What's the cost of keeping your name clean when no one else sees the dirt thrown at it?” It was hard to justify yourself when there were not many witnesses.

About a year ago, I was so disappointed and angry when I thought I had lost a friend. I lost a friendship and I had no idea what I had done for it to end. But eventually, I was okay with it, until I found out what was going on behind my back—that person backstabbing and undermining, manipulating people, and spreading lies. I started to regret that I ignored many red flags from the beginning. My vulnerability innocently led to this pity party friendship, and I thought I could help her out of the pit she was facing. But I was wrong. I wish someone had warned me. It was too late. When the betrayal happened, I was mad at God for letting this embarrassment happen to me. It jeopardized my profession as a coach and my good name.

At first, I felt stupid—like I had been gaslighted, blindsided by someone I thought was a friend. But the betrayal didn't break me, it woke me up. When I chose to leave the relationship, that gave me room to do more things. I became more productive and focused on my future. There was no more room for people who leave me feeling emotionally drained. I had more clarity and more energy. I was finally free to thrive without feeling drained. My pain turned into purpose.

One morning as I was spending quiet time with God, I opened my Bible and a verse caught my attention. 1 Corinthians 15:33 (NASB) says “Do not be deceived: Bad company corrupts good morals.” I started to reflect on the relationship I had. Reading that verse gave me a sense of deliberation. I was grateful to finally be out of a toxic relationship. I am done with joining the party of gossiping and slandering people.

I asked God for forgiveness for what I did. I am glad that we have a merciful God who taught me that my name—my character, integrity, peace—was worth more than trying to explain myself to many people, to someone who only wanted control. I stayed quiet and guarded myself. Instead of walking around defending myself, I stayed close to God for my healing process. The most important lesson I learned from this is to wake up daily with purpose. Peace from God gives me the strength to make it through every day.

I learned that I don’t owe everyone access to my life and walking away from what’s toxic isn’t weakness, it’s wisdom. My good name doesn’t come from what others say about me. It comes from who I am when God refines my story. When God is on your side no one can be against you (Romans 8:31).

Let’s Pray:

Dear Father in Heaven, thank You so much for your love and how You have created humankind in your image. I know that You love me for who I am. Only You alone can define me and clear my name because no one could do that. Because you’ve created me according to your image, I know I am worthy in your eyes. Help me to remember my true identity in Jesus Christ. Remind me of my worth as one of your Daughters. Bless me with wisdom in my daily life so I can discern how to choose the right companions—people who will help me grow and draw closer to You every day. Help me to remind myself that my worth is in You and not in this world. In Jesus’s Name, I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “Friend of God” by Israel Houghton. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “What A Friend” by Brian Doerksen. Listen to it here.

~*~

Author Bio:

Christine Monteiro is a certified transformative coach, writer, and keynote speaker who is passionate about helping others navigate the complexities of purpose, personal growth, and resilience. 

Christine’s journey to becoming a coach started four years ago, following the loss of her husband to brain cancer. That experience left her feeling as though she had lost her purpose—a feeling she deeply understands in clients who she works with now. Through self-discovery and training, Christine found the missing pieces in her life and regained her purpose and drive that now motivates her to help others.

Christine coaches her clients from all walks of life—from young adults to retirees—helping them to embrace change, set meaningful goals, and confidently pursue their dreams. She has received training through Creative Results Management and holds credentials from the International Coaching Federation (ICF). Christine also has certifications in Positive Psychology and Mental Health Coaching from Yale and Light University. Her diverse approach to coaching her clients combines empathy with strategic insight, helping them to navigate every stage of life.

When she writes, Christine likes to focus on topics like finding purpose, coping with grief, and achieving personal transformation. As she writes, Christine draws from her own experiences as a single mom and empty nester. She enjoys sharing these insights on various platforms to reach a wider audience and foster community support.

When not coaching or writing, Christine spends her time sipping black coffee and swimming in the pool. She has found that having three independent children gives her a privilege to have a lot of “me time” that she didn’t have when they were growing up.

Devotionals for the Heart: We need to stand firm in our faith in Jesus Christ

Standing Firm in Faith
A devotional by Christine Monteiro

“But Daniel resolved not to defile himself with the royal food and wine, and he asked the chief official for permission not to defile himself this way.”—Daniel 1:8 (NIV)

Scrolling on social media seems brainless. We don’t think about what we see. But the eyes can’t lie. We love what we see—the perfection of someone’s life.

Social media often showcases luxury, beauty, and success, subconsciously creating a desire for these things. We see people traveling along with beautiful scenery from one country to another. People we follow on social media showcase their accomplishments in many things and sharing their achievements in business, academic, career, etc. It is as if it is an easy achievement. Not to mention, these days, with beautiful camera filters, people look flawless. Beauty treatments seem to be more common everywhere. New beauty products are made available for purchase almost every day. Slowly, we start to compare ourselves and feel dissatisfaction, diverting focus from spiritual growth. We forget our true worth in the eyes of our Creator (God). We need to learn how to see ourselves as He sees us.

Lately, I’ve been studying the Bible story about Daniel. His decision to stand firm in his faith while held captive in Babylon reminded me of how we should stand firm in our faith while scrolling social media. We read in the first chapter of the Bible book of Daniel that Daniel was taken captive in Babylon during the Babylonian exile when King Nebuchadnezzar conquered Jerusalem. The king sought to assimilate these young men into Babylonian culture by educating them in the language and literature of the Babylonians and providing them with royal food and wine.

Despite the pressure to conform, Daniel decided not to defile himself with the royal food and wine. He requested permission to eat only vegetables and drink water for ten days as a test (Daniel 1:12). After ten days, Daniel and his friends appeared healthier than those who ate the king’s food. This spectacular result happened after Daniel and his friends consumed what we know in our modern day as “The Daniel Diet.” God blessed Daniel and his friends with knowledge and understanding. God gave Daniel the ability to interpret dreams and visions.

Living like Daniel today is difficult—not only with our food and drink choices but standing firm in our faith amidst social media temptations. However, we can take some steps to maintain our faithfulness and not be drawn to the temptation we see.

The first step is to discern what you consume on social media. We should pick and choose what we are exposed to. The right content will help our faith grow. The second step is contentment: We need to find contentment in God’s provision rather than worldly possessions because worldly possessions are temporary. The third step is to focus on God’s plan. Think about your purpose in life, what God has planted, the Godly desire instead of the worldly desires and the fleeting desires promoted online.

Let’s evaluate our social media habits and make conscious choices to prioritize our faith. When we are faithful to God, the reward is beyond our understanding. Just like God was with Daniel, He is with us, providing strength and guidance. Let’s maintain our eternal perspective, valuing spiritual growth over material gain.

Let’s Pray:

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for being such a good Father to us. Even though we face difficult choices in life, we believe you are there to give us strength and guidance. Please give us wisdom in choosing the right thing to do. Teach us to be content with what we have now and show us how to focus on eternity instead of the temporary pleasures of this world. Thank You for your love and mercy in our lives. In Jesus’s name, I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “Magnificent” by Hillsong Worship. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “Beautiful Savior” by Planetshakers. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Christine Monteiro is a certified transformative coach, writer, and keynote speaker who is passionate about helping others navigate the complexities of purpose, personal growth, and resilience. 

Christine’s journey to becoming a coach started four years ago, following the loss of her husband to brain cancer. That experience left her feeling as though she had lost her purpose—a feeling she deeply understands in clients who she works with now. Through self-discovery and training, Christine found the missing pieces in her life and regained her purpose and drive that now motivates her to help others.

Christine coaches her clients from all walks of life—from young adults to retirees—helping them to embrace change, set meaningful goals, and confidently pursue their dreams. She has received training through Creative Results Management and holds credentials from the International Coaching Federation (ICF). Christine also has certifications in Positive Psychology and Mental Health Coaching from Yale and Light University. Her diverse approach to coaching her clients combines empathy with strategic insight, helping them to navigate every stage of life.

When she writes, Christine likes to focus on topics like finding purpose, coping with grief, and achieving personal transformation. As she writes, Christine draws from her own experiences as a single mom and empty nester. She enjoys sharing these insights on various platforms to reach a wider audience and foster community support.

When not coaching or writing, Christine spends her time sipping black coffee and swimming in the pool. She has found that having three independent children gives her a privilege to have a lot of “me time” that she didn’t have when they were growing up.

Devotionals for the Heart: How I learned to trust God through life trials

Unlocking the Mystery of How to Trust God
A devotional by Christine Monteiro

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

—Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV)

Being a Christian for two decades doesn’t mean I understand and know how things work regarding believing or trusting God.

I’ve been through troubled times that made me wiser, but when I am experiencing a time of comfort and peace, I forget all the lessons learned. We are human and are easily shifted. In times of suffering, we come to God, begging Him to help us. But when we are out of the trials, we quickly forget how God works in our lives.

Ever since I had to be a caretaker for my sick husband, it was an unforgettable lesson. After he passed away, God redeemed me when I was scared for my finances. From time to time, I treated God as a transactional relationship. When another trial in life hit me, I realized I had been wrong in how I treated God. He never was a transactional God. In fact, in any circumstance, He is there to help me. I just didn’t know how to maintain that mindset that I had to trust God.

One day, this thought came to me after I had failed to pay my son’s school tuition. “How could I trust God?” I was worried along the way. I couldn’t even sleep at night. I turned and tossed in my bed, worried about how to find a way to pay for my son’s education. However, I held on to Philippians 4:6 (NIV), which says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”

I didn’t know how to apply that Bible verse. How could I not be anxious when all the financial needs for my family fall on me? And then I read another verse in Matthew 6:25 (NIV), that says, “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life.” I still don’t know how to train my mind not to worry. I keep looking for the answers. What does the Bible teach us about how to fully trust God? According to Matthew 6:33 (NIV), we are to “seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”

The answer is to seek God’s kingdom and His righteousness. When I fill my mind with God’s words from The Holy Bible as I read it, spend time with people who faithfully follow Jesus Christ, and listen to Bible-based sermons, I feel my spirit is lifted higher and God-given peace floods my soul. I can feel that fears and anxiety melt away and I stop thinking about my worries. I start to think about more significant things in my life and I let God take care of my problems.

As I cast my cares on God (1 Peter 5:7), things began to change, and I can see things clearly. Does it solve my problems completely every time? Not really, but at least it gives me some peace. I have confidence that God will send help in my time of need. He will listen to my requests when I fix my eyes on Him. This is how I finally unlocked the mystery of how to trust God.

Let’s Pray:

Dear Father in Heaven, 

Thank You so much for your promise to take good care of me. You will never forsake me. The Bible says You care for the birds in the sky, and you’ll also care for me as I am worth more than birds. I pray that I will never forget how to draw myself closer to You and fix my eyes on you only. Let me trust You every second of my life. Don’t let me doubt. Please meet my every need. I trust You and I love you, Lord. Please continue to work in my life.

In Jesus’s name, I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “Trust in You” by Anthony Brown & Group Therapy. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: "Cast Chorus" by Psalty, Ernie Rettino & Debby Kerner Rettino. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “You Are My Hiding Place,” conducted by Selah. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Christine Monteiro is a certified transformative coach, writer, and keynote speaker who is passionate about helping others navigate the complexities of purpose, personal growth, and resilience. 

Christine’s journey to becoming a coach started four years ago, following the loss of her husband to brain cancer. That experience left her feeling as though she had lost her purpose—a feeling she deeply understands in clients who she works with now. Through self-discovery and training, Christine found the missing pieces in her life and regained her purpose and drive that now motivates her to help others.

Christine coaches her clients from all walks of life—from young adults to retirees—helping them to embrace change, set meaningful goals, and confidently pursue their dreams. She has received training through Creative Results Management and holds credentials from the International Coaching Federation (ICF). Christine also has certifications in Positive Psychology and Mental Health Coaching from Yale and Light University. Her diverse approach to coaching her clients combines empathy with strategic insight, helping them to navigate every stage of life.

When she writes, Christine likes to focus on topics like finding purpose, coping with grief, and achieving personal transformation. As she writes, Christine draws from her own experiences as a single mom and empty nester. She enjoys sharing these insights on various platforms to reach a wider audience and foster community support.

When not coaching or writing, Christine spends her time sipping black coffee and swimming in the pool. She has found that having three independent children gives her a privilege to have a lot of “me time” that she didn’t have when they were growing up.

Devotionals for the Heart: How to rest in God as the source of joy and peace

Good News in the Suffering
A devotional by Christine Monteiro

“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”—1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (NIV)

The year 2024 ended differently for me.

Twelve days before Christmas, my mom had a stroke. I complained to God about my mom because this is the third time I have had to take care of a stroke for a family member. My grandma was first, my husband with his brain cancer, and then my mom. Suddenly, I had to carry all the burdens one more time—from finances to preparing her back from the hospital, preparing all the medical equipment and caretaker for her because she could no longer be independent since she was half-paralyzed. Additionally, I don't get to see my children this year. The best thing we did was a video call from three different countries. It was challenging, but it eased my heart.

I had planned my December and kept myself busy since I knew I could not spend it with my children. Last year was the first time we all had to celebrate Christmas alone. So, I agreed to join the choir ensemble and sing for Christmas Eve. But when my mom was hospitalized, I almost gave up all of them. I missed the practice. I was tired and invested in my problem. My spirit was crushed, and I didn't feel like doing anything. I was angry.

Suddenly, the rush from the past overloaded my mind. I am trying not to repeat the same pattern. The old me would give in to the situation and paralyze myself with the big problem in front of me. Then I thought, I need to learn to calm down in this situation since this isn't new to me. The unfortunate tragedy happened during the most joyous season when everybody looked forward to celebrating Christmas and the holidays. While debating how to deal with this situation, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 popped up in my mind to remind that God tells us to “Rejoice always!” It says always, not telling you to rejoice only in certain circumstances. Then it says to pray continually, and we were asked to keep praying and to give thanks in all circumstances. Again, it says all. Not “pick and choose” certain circumstances.

While meditating on that verse, I could feel the many changes within me. I decided to put my burdens and anger in God’s hands. I started to give thanks for all the things that happened in that short period. With all my strength, I went to church and finished what I started. When I sang “Joy to the World” for the first time, it resonated with my life. I realized that despite my problems, Jesus still comes to give joy to the world, no matter our circumstances. He is here to share the joy, the good news.

The new year is here and some of us may be facing 2025 with uncertainty. I am sure most of us have anxiety about wondering what is next in life. But with the perspective of God as our Heavenly Father, we can rest in that He is the source of joy. We can rely on Him. Joy should always be in our hearts, and that gives us peace.

Let's Pray:

Dear Heavenly Father,

You are an amazing God whose very presence promises to bring peace into our lives. I want to surrender my life to You. Thank You for holding me in the palm of Your Hand and never letting me go. Thank You that I don't have to take on all the burdens in this life alone. Please forgive my unbelief and doubt that you can give me joy in the hardship when life is overwhelming and tough. You tell us to give thanks in all circumstances so You can give us joy. Thank You for always being with me and holding my hands. May Your will be done in my life. I love you, Lord.

In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “The Lord Bless You and Keep You” (song) conducted by John Rutter. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Christine Monteiro is a certified transformative coach, writer, and keynote speaker who is passionate about helping others navigate the complexities of purpose, personal growth, and resilience. 

Christine’s journey to becoming a coach started four years ago, following the loss of her husband to brain cancer. That experience left her feeling as though she had lost her purpose—a feeling she deeply understands in clients who she works with now. Through self-discovery and training, Christine found the missing pieces in her life and regained her purpose and drive that now motivates her to help others.

Christine coaches her clients from all walks of life—from young adults to retirees—helping them to embrace change, set meaningful goals, and confidently pursue their dreams. She has received training through Creative Results Management and holds credentials from the International Coaching Federation (ICF). Christine also has certifications in Positive Psychology and Mental Health Coaching from Yale and Light University. Her diverse approach to coaching her clients combines empathy with strategic insight, helping them to navigate every stage of life.

When she writes, Christine likes to focus on topics like finding purpose, coping with grief, and achieving personal transformation. As she writes, Christine draws from her own experiences as a single mom and empty nester. She enjoys sharing these insights on various platforms to reach a wider audience and foster community support.

When not coaching or writing, Christine spends her time sipping black coffee and swimming in the pool. She has found that having three independent children gives her a privilege to have a lot of “me time” that she didn’t have when they were growing up.