Devotionals for the Heart: How resting in God's creations calmed my soul

Resting in God’s Creations
A devotional by Melissa Henderson

“They speak of the glorious splendor of your majesty—and I will meditate on your wonderful works.”—Psalm 145:5 (NIV)

The morning began with the usual activities: Praying and sharing time with God, having a delicious breakfast of toast and chocolate milk, taking daily medicine, enjoying a refreshing shower, choosing an outfit for the day, and checking the calendar for any appointments. As I walked from room to room in the house, I looked out of the windows and watched the birds. Although there were many tasks for the day, I knew peace would come by resting in God’s creations.

The calendar was filled with medical appointments for my husband and for me. When I look at our daily schedule, I’m shocked if there aren’t any doctor visits listed. Shocked and thankful. This morning, the calendar showed medical procedures and follow-up appointments for Alan and me. Dread filled my body and my thoughts. “Why, Lord? Why aren’t our bodies healed? Why?” The questions kept coming as I spoke out loud to God.

Once again, God led me to look outside at His creations. The sunlight cast a beautiful reflection through the window. As the light touched the carpet, I walked from the window to the front door. Shadows covered areas of the hallway where the sun hadn’t reached. I smiled and reached for the door handle. As I stepped outside, the worries of medical appointments and achy bodies left my mind. I paused, took a deep breath in, then released it. My shoulders relaxed. My breathing slowed. The sun touched my face, and the warmth of God’s rest covered me.

I prayed and thanked God for the ability to rest in His creations. A ruby-throated hummingbird visited the feeder. A monarch butterfly danced around the petunias. A family of chickadees called out to each other from different trees. Red cardinals sat on the tray feeder eating breakfast.

These glorious creations were busy with their morning routines. Even the hummingbirds took time to sit on the feeder and drink the nectar. I noticed how none of these animals were in a hurry or looking rushed. Sitting on a porch chair, I listened to the sounds of God’s creations. I heard various bird calls, families taking morning walks together and sharing conversations, neighbors saying hello as they passed by our home and I felt the quiet of the morning. As I prayed, I listened for God’s guidance for the day. He answered. God showed me that although I have worries and trials, I’m never alone. I can find rest in His creations. God created these beautiful sights and sounds that brought me peace that morning.

My parents liked to sit on the porch and watch the happenings in their neighborhood. As a young girl, I wondered why they always enjoyed being outside. Now, I know. My Mama and Daddy were resting in God’s creations.

Today and every day, peace and comfort can be found with God. Praying, giving thanksgiving for His many blessings, and asking for His rest to cover us can bring calm and joy. Have you rested with God today?

Let’s Pray:

Dear God,

Thank You for Your creations. May we always make time to enjoy the many blessings You provide. Teach us to rest in your creation. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

~*~
Song of Reflection #1: “In the Garden” by Joey and Rory. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “God of All My Days” by Casting Crowns. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “Plans” by Brandon Lake. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #4: “Still Waters (Psalm 23)” by Leanna Crawford. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #5: “For the Beauty of the Earth” by Barlow Girl. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #6: “The Maker” by Chris August. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #7: “How Can You Not” by Leanna Crawford. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Award-winning author Melissa Henderson writes inspirational messages sometimes humming with humor. 

With articles, devotions, and stories in print publications and online, Melissa shares her love for God and life. Some of the inspirations for her writing come from family life.

Melissa and her husband Alan have been married for over 46 years. Their son Mike, and daughter-in-love Christine have blessed the family with two precious children: Rowan and Eden. These precious souls bring laughter, love, and many funny experiences, which can often be found in Melissa’s writing. The family motto is: It’s Always a Story with the Hendersons.

Melissa is a member of ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers) South Carolina Lowcountry Chapter, AWSA (Advanced Writers and Speakers Association), CWFL (Christian Writers for Life), and many other organizations.

Melissa’s books for children include Licky the Lizard and Grumpy the Gator.

Melissa serves in Christian ministry as an Elder, Deacon, and Stephen Minister.

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Connect with Melissa:
Website: https://melissaghenderson.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MelissaHendersonAuthor
Twitter: https://x.com/mimionlife
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissahendersonauthor/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/ahenderson312/

Devotionals for the Heart: God can use suffering for our good and His glory

When God Uses Our Suffering to Advance the Gospel
A devotional by Kerry Sue Teravskis

“Now I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel.”—Philippians 1:12 (NIV)

When we are in a place of suffering, God has not turned His face away from us.

He will never leave us (Hebrews 13:5) and He is with us always (Matthew 28:20). And God can use all things for our good and His glory (Romans 8:28).

You may be wondering how this is possible. How can my jobless state be used? Or how can my suffering in pain be used for the advancement of the Gospel of Jesus Christ? Or how can my sheer brokenness be used for His glory and my good?

This my friends, is the question of the century, but we have it on good authority, that God does in fact, use it. We are told so by the Apostle Paul (Romans 8:28) as well as our verse printed above (Philippians 1:12).

The Apostle Paul was in prison when he wrote the letter to the Philippians. He was bound to a guard day and night. He was put there for preaching the gospel (the good news). He was not a lawbreaker; he was a soldier for Christ.

All throughout his writings (he is responsible for writing several books in the New Testament of The Holy Bible), Paul is very open about hardships, suffering, sharing the gospel, and having joy in the process. He wrote in Philippians 1:27 (NIV), “Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ.” This same Paul endured much, yet he chose joy for the sake of Christ. For the sake of the gospel. But how does that work?

We may not understand all the particulars (and I for one, do not), but we can look around us to see how this plays out. Do you know a long-time saint in the church who has endured much? Whether it be health-related, broken relationships, financial duress—and yet he or she is joyful? Glorifying and praising God rather than looking at circumstances. Not looking at the walls of the nursing home or the walker propped by the side of their bed—but fixing their eyes on Jesus.

Let’s face it: Life is hard in so many ways. Yet, life is good in so many ways. The laughter of a young child, the beauty of a sunset or of a sunrise. The brush of the ocean breeze on your face. The taste of chocolate or the first sip of coffee. Or the warm embrace of a dear friend. The kiss from a puppy, the drive in a new car.

God is with us in all this. He is there when we fail, and when we are betrayed. He is there when we climb the highest heights or sit in a chair unable to move because of pain. Recently while I was in Tanzania (Africa), I was able to testify about the healing power of God. I had suffered for five long years with broken feet (both of my feet were broken). After God healed me, I had asked Him for opportunities to witness about His healing—even on foreign soil.

He gave me the time one Sunday right after my husband preached. He was preaching on Habakkuk and at the very end of this little book in The Holy Bible, we read in Habakkuk 3:19 (NIV), “The Sovereign Lord is my strength; he makes my feet like the feet of a deer, he enables me to tread on the heights.”

When my husband read this verse, I knew I had to share my story. It was a last-minute decision, but a welcome one. I shared briefly about my five-year affliction. Tears were streaming down my face so that I could not read my Bible, nor could my translator read, as he too had tears down his face. We struggled along reading from Psalm 119, Philippians 3:10, and landed on Habakkuk 3:19 with my declaration that Hope Chapel in Kamala, Kigoma, Tanzania, was the heights God allowed me to stand on. It was for this reason I was healed. To further the gospel. To share of His goodness. To witness of His glory.

That testimony opened so many more conversations in the remaining weeks we were there and God’s Word went out even more. Was it hard to endure those five long years sitting in my room, in a chair, not doing ‘normal’ life type things? Yes, very. But to be able to testify to God’s goodness in Tanzania was awesome.

This begs the question: How was I testifying during the affliction? Was I moaning and groaning during that time or was I like Paul, pointing out the fact that my affliction was furthering the gospel? To be honest, it was a little of both. Some days were better than others, but God was faithful through it all and He gave me many opportunities to share His goodness even while confined to my room.

I was able to say as the psalmist said in Psalm 119:68 (NIV), “You are good, and what You do is good; teach me Your decrees.”

I would encourage you, even now, if you are struggling, to recognize God’s goodness in your life and allow Him to use your present circumstances to further the gospel.

Let’s Pray: Father, I acknowledge Your goodness. I acknowledge that truly, I want to have my life and my circumstances further the gospel. I want to be part of Your bigger plan. And I know I cannot do it alone. I am thankful You are with me in every moment, every circumstance, every hurt. You are good. And what You do is good. Yes, Lord, I did say that and I mean it. I embrace You afresh and anew, desiring to share with others. For the sake of the gospel of Jesus Christ. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

~*~
Song of Reflection #1: “He’s Been Faithful” by Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir featuring TaRanda Greene. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “Every Moment” by ForeverJones. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “Lord, You Are Good” by Todd Galberth. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #4: “Testimony” by Terrian. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

As a wife and Marmee to three adult children—two of whom are married—and a new grandson, Kerry Sue’s life is very full. She met her husband in college and served on the mission field with him for a few years before settling down back in the States to raise their family. 

Kerry Sue’s family was a homeschooling family for 20 years and they enjoyed it immensely. For the last 26 years they have lived on a small farm in Northern California where they have raised many farm animals, along with growing and preserving their food. Kerry Sue’s family farm has been a great source of enjoyment and a place to host many family gatherings. She maintains an open-door policy for dear friends—old and new.

Following and serving Jesus Christ is an integral part of Kerry Sue’s life as well as her family’s. Whether it’s singing in the church choir, teaching children or leading and lecturing at a women’s Bible study, Kerry Sue loves to demonstrate her love for Jesus by giving to Him in service. She’s been a blogger for more than 10 years, a Bible study writer for six years, and a devotional writer for more than four years.

Kerry Sue feels led to write about finding God’s Sovereignty in our suffering because of her own journey of more than five years with broken feet. She hopes to to encourage others with her faith walk and real-life stories.

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Connect with Kerry:
Blog: https://www.sovereignblog.com/home
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kerry.teravskis
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ksteravskis/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sovereignblog

Devotionals for the Heart: When persevering in prayer is your lifeline

Ask, Seek, Knock
A devotional by Erica Bryant

“Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened.”—Matthew 7:7-8 (ESV)

There are times when we feel completely depleted.

We find ourselves overwhelmed, uncertain, and searching for solid ground. In those moments, prayer isn't just helpful, it becomes our lifeline. Prayer was a lifeline for Jesus Christ when He was living on Earth, too! He was often found stealing away to pray, finding comfort in His Heavenly Father's voice.

If prayer was essential for Jesus who is the Savior of the world (John 3:16-17), how much more essential should it be for us?

Prayer was central to Christ’s teachings. He addressed it twice in what The Holy Bible calls, “the Sermon on the Mount”. In Matthew 6:5-15, Jesus teaches on proper prayer, emphasizing sincerity and providing a model for praying powerfully and with authority. Then in Matthew 7:7-8, Jesus shifts our focus with three powerful verbs: ask, seek, knock. These three words aren’t suggestions. They’re commands infused with urgency and bold persistence. Jesus, however, doesn’t just command; He also promises. He promises that those who ask will receive, those who seek will find, and those who knock will have doors opened to them.

Jesus encourages us to be persistent in prayer. Even when our prayers seem unanswered or there is silence, the imperative form of the verbs used in Matthew 7:7-8 encourages us to continue asking, seeking, and knocking persistently.

The promises in Matthew 7:7-8 highlight that as children of God, we can confidently approach our Heavenly Father, knowing He hears us and answers our prayers. Jesus uses examples of earthly fathers giving good gifts to their children to illustrate the surpassing love of our Heavenly Father. If, despite their imperfections, earthly parents know how to give good gifts to their children out of love, how much more will God, who loves us relentlessly, desire to give us good gifts when we ask (Matthew 7:9-11). Our Heavenly Father's love far surpasses that of earthly parents and is demonstrated through the sacrificial love of Jesus.

Understanding God’s character changes everything. He is a Good Father who knows how to give good gifts to His children. Prayer isn't manipulation; it's connection. It's a relationship of love and trust. So, pray BIG, BOLD prayers. Trust God's plans. Know that He wants to exceed your expectations.

If we are honest, as we carefully look at the promises found in these passages, we may be thinking, “This doesn’t describe my reality! I ask and have not received. I have sought and have not found. I have knocked and am still met with closed doors!” Yes, that may be true, but James 4:3 (NIV) offers an answer to your problem. God says, “When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures.”

But what about those times when you've prayed in God's will, and the promises of Matthew 7:7-8 still feel impossibly distant from your actual life? Let this truth found in Isaiah 55:8-9 (ESV), anchor you: God says, “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.”

Look closely at Matthew 7:8 again. Everyone who asks receives, but it doesn't specify what is received. The one who seeks finds, but it does not share exactly what is to be found. Doors open to those who knock, but God, in His sovereignty, opens the doors He deems right for you. We must trust that our Heavenly Father knows what's best for us. He won't give us what we can't handle or steward well. He shields us from things that could harm us or pull us from Him, even the things we desperately want.

Here's another truth to hold onto, found in Ephesians 3:20 (ESV). It says, “Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us.” Here’s what I’ve learned: Sometimes we ask too small. God wants to exceed not just our expectations, but also our imaginations.

And sometimes there's silence. There's waiting on God to answer our prayers. In those moments, remember what Jesus actually said. In the original Greek text, the verbs for “ask”, “seek”, and “knock” are all written in the present active tense. Grammatically, this signifies continuous, ongoing, and persistent action. Rather than a one-time request, a more literal and accurate translation is: “Ask and keep on asking. Seek and keep on seeking. Knock and keep on knocking.”

Don’t stop. Be persistent. Keep praying. What does it mean to keep asking, keep seeking, and keep knocking?

To keep asking might look like returning to God repeatedly with a request, desire, or need, not because He didn't hear you the first time, but because you trust He's listening every time. It's a mother who prays for provision every morning or a person wrestling with addiction who asks for strength for today, tomorrow, and the day after that. When you keep asking, you refuse to let anything convince you that God isn't there.

To keep seeking means actively looking for God's hand in your circumstances, even when the answer isn't what you expected. It's studying Scripture to understand His character better. It's listening for His voice in the quiet moments, in conversations with others, in the way doors open and close. Seeking isn't passive waiting; it's an intentional pursuit.

To keep knocking is showing up. It's returning to prayer when you're tired. It’s taking action aligned with your prayers. It's trusting that even when one door closes, God is opening another. It's the persistence that says, “I believe, even when I can't see.” It’s trusting that you have a Good Father who loves you more than you know and could imagine. He is the One who holds your future in His hands and knows what’s best for you.

Trust in God’s goodness and know that if you ask, He will answer; if you seek, you will find; and if you knock, He will open a door for you.

Let’s Pray:

Dear Father,

Thank You for being a God who loves me so deeply and intimately. You know what I need and what is best for me. When I pray, please help me to keep asking, seeking, and knocking. Grant me the faith to believe that You hear my prayers and because of Your love for me, You will answer them. Help me embrace Your answers, even when they don’t align with my expectations, trusting that You can exceed them.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen.

~*~
Song of Reflection #1: “Good, Good Father” by Chris Tomlin, ft. Pat Barrett. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “Don’t Stop Praying” by Matthew West. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “The Benediction” by Anthony Brown & Group Therapy. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #4: “He’s Able” by Deitrick Haddon. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #5: “The Goodness of God” by CeCe Winans. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Erica N. Bryant is a passionate Bible teacher, speaker, and author who desires to see believers live in the complete freedom and joy of the Holy Spirit. 

As the founder of Sparrow's Song Ministries, Erica invites a community of believers to get to know God by falling in love with His Word. Through Bible study resources, devotionals, teaching, and mentorship, Sparrow's Song encourages others to grow in intimacy with God and walk daily in the power of His Holy Spirit. She began The Word W.O.R.K.S. campaigns to help believers walk in Wholeness, Obedience, Righteousness, and Kingdom Success.

Erica is a writer with several published works including devotionals for adults and children, topical and textual Bible studies, and Scripture journals. In her debut book, Dwell: Living Life Fully Knowing that the Holy Spirit Lives in You, Erica draws from her own journey of healing from childhood trauma, rejection, and the struggles of fear and anxiety. With honesty and hope, she invites readers to embrace the life-giving truth that God's Spirit resides within them. Erica believes that when you know the Holy Spirit dwells in you, everything changes.

Erica is a passionate speaker who effectively communicates God’s Word with clarity and conviction. She speaks a relevant word to hearers and ministers to their hearts, inspires practical application, and empowers them to grow in faith and purpose.

Erica is a devoted wife and loving mother who actively serves in various roles at Strait Gate Deliverance Center.

Ultimately, she is just a girl in love with God and she is a soldier for Jesus Christ.

Devotionals for the Heart: Be prepared to fight against our mortal enemy

Know Your Enemy: Be Prepared!
A devotional by Leslie Bake

“Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings.”—1 Peter 5:8-9 (NIV)

I walk my year and half-year-old Cocker Spaniel weekly on a lovely, wooded path near my neighborhood. It’s almost always busy with plenty of other dog walkers, stray cats, deer and occasionally a vulture or two.

With repeated exposure, I’m hoping my young dog will grow accustomed to the stimulation and simmer down. He is always on the leash and he’s still learning. There have been moments when we encounter a German Shepherd, and the owner and the calmer canine graciously step aside as I gather my fussy 30 pounder in my arms and continue on the path. I keep my dog close, reprimand him, and yank him into submission when we pass the equally terrified cats staring us down. I do my best to keep my dog safe and train him.

That’s a lot like what God’s Word (The Holy Bible) does for me when I am navigating a world of frightening rulers, the authorities, the powers of darkness in this world, and against the spiritual forces of evil in heavenly realms. I’m still learning to stay focused on the Lord, and there are days when I’m still frightened. However, as long as I’m on my “leash”, I know God is leading and guiding me. Otherwise, I am all over the place, distracted, and fighting the wrong battles.

Yes, we are in a battle. Our enemy deceives, kills, lies, steals and destroys (John 10:10). He studies us to identify our weaknesses and prowls around like a roaring lion, patiently waiting for the perfect time to devour us. That’s not melodrama. That’s the Truth. See our anchor text above for proof. The entertainment industry is one of many ways in which Satan gains a foothold in our minds.

I remind you of this reality not to scare you, but to prepare you.

Satan (the devil, our enemy) works hard to keep families broken, marriages in ruin, all of us anxious and distracted from God. He wants us bickering, divided, and full of self-righteous pride. I recommend you read The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis and any book by Neil T. Anderson (especially The Bondage Breaker) if you remain skeptical about the reality of demons and how they work.

How do we overcome the enemy and his demons?

Jesus Christ did the first part with the crucifixion and resurrection (John 3:16-17), which crippled the fallen angel (Lucifer/Satan), but didn’t kill him. Why didn’t Jesus annihilate him? It was not the right time. We know this because in Luke 8:26-39, Jesus commanded a legion of demons out of a man, but the demons begged not be sent to the Abyss, which is referenced in Revelation. Jesus sends the demons into the pigs instead. The book of Revelation portrays the future victory Jesus has over Satan, his demons and all evil.

The good news is that Jesus has defeated Satan, so he remains under God’s authority with limited power. When Jesus returns, evil will be permanently annihilated. But until then, we believers are under God’s protection and must do our part. How can we do our part? Glad you asked! Read on…

We must saturate our minds with the truth of The Holy Bible, and at times, speak them out loud. I have found that speaking Scripture is helpful when I feel under attack from the enemy because I know the devil can’t read my mind but he can hear my spoken words. We must pray daily for protection. We must apply God’s Truth to our lives every day because the enemy watches us closely. The Bible says in James 4:7 (NIV), “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”

The Bible also says in Ephesians 6:13 (NIV) that we are to “put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.” When we continue reading this passage in the Bible found in Ephesians 6:14-18, we discover that we are called to, “Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.”

Our offensive mode is knowing Scripture so well that we can fight the deceiver’s lies by proclaiming Truth. The sword of the spirit blocks those flaming arrows of accusations, lies and schemes. Our defensive mode is staying on our leash, close to Jesus and living righteously. These battle plan directions are clear, but not easy to follow. Righteous living is our best protection, but that’s hard work. Are you willing to live righteously? This means living obediently according to the teachings of God’s Word.

Satan is determined to destroy the church and the individuals within. One could argue that he already has. Wake up, Church! Spiritual warfare is mandatory as a collective body within the church and for individual believers in God. Our adversary aims his fiery arrows at those devoted to the Lord because they are sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ with whomever and wherever they can.

This is not a game. There are no spectator seats. You must decide to either take up your cross and follow Jesus (Matthew 16:24-26) or fall prey to Satan. Following Jesus is not a lukewarm decision. The choice is easy if you truly love the Lord and do the work of maintaining a relationship with Him.

Satan, the god of this world, delights in our complacency before the Lord, our half-hearted attempts at prayer and our refusal to repentant. Maybe you need to take the Bible seriously. Maybe you need to renew your commitment to the Lord. Maybe you need to confess sin. Remember: You cannot choose sin and then beg a Holy God for protection from the evil one. Only when we confess our sin, repent, experience forgiveness and submit to Him as our Lord and Savior are we covered.

Stay on the leash and close to God with righteous living. Stay near to the Good Shepherd (Jesus Christ, as stated in John 10:11-18) and keep your ears tuned for His voice. Don’t allow evil to frighten or distract you. Stay the course.

Let’s Pray:

Dear God,

We are so very grateful for your redemptive work at the cross and for your victory. Thank You for your loving protection under the shadow of your wings. Forgive us for not living righteously. Forgive our sins. Forgive us when we fail to remain alert to Satan’s cunning lies. You have given us all the tools we need for victory in this battle. Help us use them effectively.

In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

~*~
Song of Reflection #1: “Mercy Tree” by Lacey Sturm. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “God So Loved” by Jaci Velasquez. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “Thank You Jesus for the Blood (Live)” by Charity Gayle. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #4: “I Will Wait for You” by Dr. Juanita Bynum. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Leslie Bake grew up Lutheran in Des Moines, graduated from the University of Northern Iowa with an undergraduate degree in English, and with a new understanding of what a relationship with the Lord could look like. 

She spent a few years reporting and editing in small town journalism and then began pursuing a master’s degree at Iowa State University in teaching English to speakers of other languages. Then she got married and later went through a divorce, which deepened her relationship with God and transformed her life.

Leslie taught English as a second language for three years at Kansas State University, then returned to writing and earned a master’s degree in creative non-fiction in Pittsburgh. Her memoir will eventually be published. It details the process of how the Lord created beauty from the ashes of divorce.

Pittsburgh is also where she met and married her second husband. They are now the parents of two wonderful children—one in fifth grade and one in first grade.

Leslie and her husband make their home in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. Leslie has been a stay-at-home mom for the past 11 years and actively growing her writing career alongside her two growing children.

She now maintains a monthly blog of her own and is working toward expanding her writing ministry on Substack. Her heart’s deepest desire is to help others connect with God through writing.

~*~
Connect with Leslie:
Substack: lesliebake.substack.com
E-mail address: Leslie.bake@yahoo.com

Devotionals for the Heart: Why we should always make room for God

The Extra in Ordinary
A devotional by Anne Madison

“Let all that you do be done with love.”

—1 Corinthians 16:14 (NKJV)

The day began just like any other ordinary day.

I woke to the sunlight’s gentle glow casting daylight into the bedroom. The puppy that had snuggled close to me stirred when she noticed I was awake. She rolled on her back, begging for belly scratches. I accommodated her request, my fingers moving gently over her soft, pink belly. Then it began.

My mind drifted and soon shouted out thoughts in rapid fire. “Answer emails! Wash laundry! Pack for the weekend! Remember to add ketchup to the grocery list! Water the plants! Put the clothes in the dryer! Do the dishes! Feed the dog!”

Dog! My thoughts stopped as quickly as they started. Mindlessly, I was still scratching her belly. She was unaware of the trip I had just taken. Me, on the other hand? Even though I was rubbing her belly, my mind was miles away, lost in a list of chores and tasks that needed to be done before the end of the day. I was now on high alert and ready to conquer the to-do list my master-get-it-done brain had just rifled off. Begrudgingly, I rolled out of bed feeling as if I had already run a marathon.

After feeding the dog (who was incredibly happy to be fed), and before getting caught up in the whirlwind of chores and tasks, I decided to calm my racing brain, reset my now derailed nerves, and go back to a gentle start to the morning.

Sitting down with a cup of tea, my journal, and a favorite pen of the day, I allowed myself to breathe and be present in a space that allowed reflection, prayer, and journaling. All things that my hurried heart was craving. Things that grounded me. Things that slowed my roll and reigned in my racing thoughts. Things that feed my soul. Ordinary things.

Ordinary. Curious word. The Oxford dictionary defines it as “not unusual or different in any way”. That is what I am yearning for in life: ordinary days filled with ordinary things. No drama. Only ordinary, everyday things. Life has been speeding by in a chaotic blur for way too long now.

As I was contemplating the ordinary, something awakened in my spirit. Life is lived in the ordinary. Every day ending in ‘y’ has ordinary in it. What I make the ordinary mean makes a difference in how I show up.

I recalled a time I was washing dishes at the kitchen sink. Our family was home together for a rare holiday visit. We shared a home-cooked meal with food that took hours to plan and create. Dirty dishes were stacked on top of each other on the countertop like cordwood. Numerous utensils were strewn haphazardly anywhere they landed in the disjointed gathering. The mound of soiled dishes grew mountainous as pots, pans, and serving bowls joined the stash. It seemed as if every dish in the cupboard had been called into service for the making of this one meal! Our time together went by way too quickly.

The kids left as fast as they came, and the house was quiet once again. Cleaning the kitchen was going to take infinitely more energy than I had remaining. I ended up managing the entire pile of dishes on my own. Washing the seemingly endless number of utensils, this tired mama began to grumble. Not grumble aloud, mind you, but the Lord heard me just the same. His loving voice challenged my thoughts. “Daughter. Was your family gathered here today around your table? Did you have food to eat? A warm, comfortable home in which to gather? Did their presence bring you joy?” I paused, holding the soapy dishrag in my hand. “Well, of course.” That was my whispered, humbled reply. His response? “Then why do you grumble and complain?” Mic drop.

The room became still. I realized trash-thinking and grumbling crowded out all the blessings I had been given. At that very moment, I made a powerful decision to complete this very ordinary task in an extra ordinary way. I prayed for each one of my kids, their spouses, and my grandkids. I thanked God for the blessings of a warm home, food, a table at which to gather, and yes, for each dish that I washed. At that moment, extra met ordinary. From that time to this very day, the ordinary task of washing dishes is my time of prayer and worship. It extends to other chores, too.

The picking up of dirty laundry that sits next to the open clothes hamper; the folding of fitted sheets; the washing of laundry; the shopping and putting away of groceries; the dusting of the furniture; the vacuuming of the ever-growing dust bunnies off the floor. Each task is ordinary. Yet when done with a thankful heart, each becomes an extraordinary act of service to those we love.

I know another woman who grumbled about having to do it all alone. Martha: Her story in Luke 10:38-42 (NKJV) is much like mine.

“Now it happened as they went that He entered a certain village; and a certain woman named Martha welcomed Him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, who also sat at Jesus’ feet and heard His word. But Martha was distracted with much serving, and she approached Him and said, “Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Therefore, tell her to help me.” And Jesus answered and said to her, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and troubled about many things. But one thing is needed, and Mary has chosen that good part, which will not be taken away from her.”

Martha’s grumbling thoughts caused her to protest to Jesus about her sister’s lack of consideration in leaving her to do all the preparation for their guests. Jesus’ response, however, invited her to refocus on a higher priority.

I wonder how Martha responded to Jesus’ words. Did she walk away abruptly, her heart still filled with frustration? Did she cast a resentful glance at her sister as she left the room, already intending to have a chat with Mary about how unfair it was to be left with all the work? Or did Jesus’ gentle correction cause her to pause, reflect, and reconsider what truly mattered at that moment?

The same choice is ours today, and what we choose matters. Time spent at the feet of Jesus changes us. It quiets our anxious thoughts and changes our grumbling hearts. What if all we do is done in love as if serving the Lord himself? What if, before rushing headlong into the busyness of the day, we first choose to sit at the feet of Jesus, listening to His voice, and resting in His presence? Perhaps the most extraordinary way to accomplish an ordinary task is to begin by spending time with the One who gives our lives and each task its purpose.

Let's Pray:
Lord, thank You for Your love for Martha. Her story is much like mine—worrying and troubled about many things, busy with tasks and responsibilities, while missing the better part. You lovingly redirected her heart. You challenged her priorities and invited her to place You first. Forgive me for the times I allow the demands of life to crowd out my time with You. Help me to recognize what matters most and to choose the better part that can never be taken away. Teach me to sit at Your feet, listen to Your voice, and rest in Your presence. May my service flow from a heart that is devoted to You rather than driven by obligation and frustration. Thank You for Your gentle correction, unfailing grace, and Your constant invitation to draw near to you. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

~*~
Song of Reflection #1: “Just a Little Talk with Jesus” [Live] by The Oak Ridge Boys ft. Bill & Gloria Gaither. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “Yet Not I But Through Christ in Me” by CityAlight. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “I Heard the Voice of Jesus Say” by Dave Moor and Lauren Moore. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #4: “I Am Not My Own” by Keith & Kristyn Getty, Skye Peterson. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #5: “Available to You” by Melinda Watts (feat. J Moss). Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #6:  “Make Room” by Jonathan McReynolds. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #7:  “Open The Eyes of My Heart” by Jordan G. Welch. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #8:  “First” by Lauren Daigle. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Anne Madison is a devotional writer whose words gently guide women toward a deeper connection with God through personal reflection, scripture, and everyday experiences. 

Based in Iron River, Wisconsin, Anne is continually inspired by the natural beauty around her and the strong sense of community she calls home.

A dedicated journaler for over 46 years, Anne draws from a rich well of spiritual practice and daily life to craft devotionals that are heartfelt, relatable, and deeply rooted in faith. Her writing speaks to women seeking encouragement, stillness, and spiritual renewal amid the busyness of life.

Anne has a unique gift for noticing God in the ordinary. Whether it's a cup of morning coffee, a walk through the woods, or a quiet conversation with a friend, she uncovers sacred messages that reveal God’s goodness and the blessings hidden in everyday moments.

In addition to her writing, Anne is pursuing her certification as a Life Coach through the Life Mentoring School, further deepening her calling to encourage and uplift others.

She finds joy in simple pleasures—quilting, reading, and spending time with her beloved family and friends.

~*~
Connect with Anne:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lessonsinthejourney    
Email: lessonsinthejourney@gmail.com  

Devotionals for the Heart: When God calls us out of our comfort zone

The Comfort Zone
A devotional by Colleen C. Howard

“And Jesus stopped and said, “Call him.” And they called the blind man, saying to him, “Take heart. Get up; he is calling you.” —Mark 10:49 (ESV)

There is much talk these days about the comfort zone.

It is considered to be a space you create. A place where you feel safe and secure in the midst of this big, bad world. Maybe you travel the same way to work every day because it’s familiar. Maybe you shop at the same grocery store because you know the contents of every aisle. But let’s look a little deeper.

Is it possible God might be calling you to a life outside of the secure walls you have built for yourself?

Don’t get me wrong, this doesn’t necessarily mean you need to sell all your belongings and head for the South American jungle to spread the gospel. Although God plants that desire into the hearts of some, He has also equipped them to thrive in the environment of the jungle. However, I’ll bet the thought of selling your home and going to some remote village in the middle of nowhere was the first thing that crossed your mind.

Sometimes God calls you to get up and step out of your comfort zone. He urges you to venture into the uncomfortable zone that leads you to freedom. Perhaps you need to move. Your current house payments feel like a chain around your neck and put unnecessary strain on your finances. Moving could create financial freedom. Maybe your job situation is stealing you away from your family and chipping away pieces of your soul. Are you willing to place the sign in the yard or give your boss a two-week notice? Be aware, both these steps require the courage to take action and a huge dose of faith.

The world doesn’t make this easy. It’s human nature to place our security in the arms of what’s familiar. However, making a lateral move into something you already know only mimics security.

As followers of Jesus Christ, our security is found in Him alone. God’s Word is filled with ordinary people just like us, people who stepped outside of their comfort zone and accomplished extraordinary things through Christ. Let’s take a peek into a slice of time in the life of one of God’s people.

In Exodus 3:1-4, we find Moses as he is tending to the flock. Suddenly his attention is captured by a bush that’s on fire. But oddly, even though the fire rages, the bush is not consumed! So, Moses walks over to get a closer look and then it happens. Moses literally hears God call his name out loud, “Moses! Here I am.”

Did you notice what happened there? Moses left his familiar position with the flock and walked toward the flames. This is a seriously brave move. I think all Moses had in mind was to see why the bush wasn’t burning up. But he got way more than he bargained for by taking action. He took a few steps forward.

If you feel familiarity is holding you prisoner, maybe it’s time to walk toward the fire. God wants to set you free from the false sense of security the enemy places before you. Ask Jesus for the courage to take a few steps of faith and place yourself outside of your comfort zone. Step over the self-imposed boundary and lean in, be aware of God’s presence and seek the light that sets your soul on fire.

Keep your eyes fixed on Jesus and remember that He has prepared a path just for you. He has equipped you with all you need. Every story has to start somewhere. Let your next adventure begin!

Let’s Pray:

Dear God,

Give me ears to hear what You are calling me to do. Show me a glimpse of your plans. Equip me with the courage to step forward and move out of the boundaries of my comfort zone. Fill me with faith to step over what’s holding me back and guide my path in alignment with your plans.

In Jesus’ name, I pray.

Amen.

~*~
Song of Reflection #1: “He’s Calling You” by Donnie McClurkin. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “Glorious Unfolding” by Steven Curtis Chapman. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “Outside These Walls” by Helen Baylor. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Colleen C. Howard is a follower of Jesus Christ, educator and writer. She lives with her husband in the Arizona desert where the sunsets are spectacular, the summers are relentless and the winters are a little slice of Heaven. 

Colleen earned her Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership. This degree opened opportunities to write science curriculum, develop district programs, work with Arizona teachers, community leaders, and more. With NASA Grant funding, she was also able to work with teachers all over the country and expand their knowledge of teaching science as a collaborative effort.

Over the last few years God has placed a strong desire in Colleen’s heart to shine a light on God’s presence throughout ordinary days and encourage women in their faith walk with Him. Although some days bring trials and others bring joy, Colleen believes that if you fix your eyes on Jesus then you will see the heart of God.

Colleen’s writing has been published in the following online publications: Living By Design, Her View From Home, Inside Out Worldwide, Inkspirations, and in anthologies like From Ruins to Restoration, Mountains Moved: 45 Devotions of Bold Faith, and The Miracle of Prayer. She is a monthly blogger for Dressing in God’s Love.

~*~
Connect with Colleen:
Website: authorcolleenchoward.com

Devotionals for the Heart: What a squirrel taught me about God's love

What a Terrified Squirrel Reminded Me About God’s Love
A devotional by Jessica Brodie

“O Lord, what a variety of things you have made! In wisdom you have made them all. The earth is full of your creatures.”—Psalm 104:24 (NLT)

Eye to eye outside my front door window, we watched each other. Me, sleepy in my workout clothes, ready to head upstairs to hop on the treadmill. Him, a terrified brown squirrel, clinging to the tree outside my door in terror.

I froze in my tracks, gazing at him. He didn’t move a muscle as his brown eyes locked on mine. I could almost see the thoughts coming from his brain: “Does she see me? Am I in danger? Maybe if I don’t move then she’ll think I’m part of the tree. Wait, is that nut still up there?”

Seconds ticked by. A full minute. I didn’t want to terrify the poor creature further, so in a moment I would slink away, letting him know he was truly safe after all. Yet I couldn’t help but marvel at him. His muscles bunched tight. His luminous brown eyes. The way his fingers, so childlike and delicate, clung to the slender tree trunk. He was a marvel, that squirrel! God’s precious creation. And for a moment, we saw each other. Fully. Finally, guilt set in at how scared I was probably making him, and I broke our eye contact and retreated upstairs.

Yet as I walked on that treadmill belt, I couldn’t stop thinking about that squirrel. About his tender, almost human-like hands. About those wide, chocolate-brown eyes. To God, that squirrel is likely as precious as I am. As you are. As that bird in the sky is. As that lonely man in the alley is, chasing away his demons in a bottle of something toxic. As that angry-eyed girl on the street is, keeping the world at arm’s length with her scowl and her fierce clothing.

All of us, every single one of us, is handcrafted in the image of God. Even the animals are perfectly designed—not necessarily, as humans—in the full image of God, but with that same amount of care and love and painstaking architecture. It doesn’t take much to look around and see God’s love everywhere. Even a leaf, with its delicate symmetry, shows that love, that attention, from our glorious Creator.

Our Father God cares for us, every one of us. Yet what do we do in return?

Sometimes we take that love for granted, becoming so consumed by our own lives and selfish concerns that we forget to be grateful for the breath in our lungs and the simple gift of our bodies. Sometimes we treat other people with disdain or show a complete lack of admiration and care for the world around us. We trash our forests and fill our air with toxins. We push our animals out into increasingly fewer spaces outdoors with overbuilding and urban sprawl. We overhunt and overindulge to our heart’s content. But if we only open our eyes, we will realize that loving God means loving others. It means loving His creation as much as we love ourselves.

Here are a few scriptures that point to God’s care:

- Genesis 1:31 (NLT) says, “Then God looked over all he had made, and he saw that it was very good!”

- Psalm 24:1 (NLT) says, “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it. The world and all its people belong to him.”

- Romans 1:20 (NLT) says, “For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God.”

We have no excuse. So, let’s open our eyes and see God all around us. And in return, let us celebrate His creation—from the animals to the earth to the people around us—with love and deep gratitude.

Let’s Pray: Heavenly Father, thank You for the great love You have for me and all your creation. Help me honor You with my life and with all the love I can muster. Instill in me a heart of gratitude and care, now and forevermore. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

~*~
Song of Reflection #1: “The Maker” by Chris August. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “For the Beauty of the Earth” by Barlow Girl. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: "God So Loved" by Jaci Velasquez. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Jessica Brodie is an award-winning Christian novelist, journalist, editor, blogger, and writing coach. 

Her two Christian contemporary novels, The Memory Garden and Tangled Roots, are Amazon bestsellers and her third novel, Hidden Seeds, is out now and is a top release. Learn more about Jessica’s writing ministry and read her faith blog at http://jessicabrodie.com.

Jessica is also the editor of the South Carolina United Methodist Advocate, the oldest newspaper in Methodism. She has a YouTube devotional, and you can also connect with her on Facebook and Instagram.

Jessica also produced a free eBook, A God-Centered Life: 10 Faith-Based Practices When You’re Feeling Anxious, Grumpy, or Stressed.