Devotionals for the Heart: God can give you refuge in the storms of life

God offers us refuge in the storms of life

A devotional by Kerry Sue Teravskis

“Keep me safe, my God, for in you I take refuge.”

—Psalm 16:1 (NIV)

Having lived in Central America, I have experienced torrential rainstorms.

These are the kinds where one could set a clock because of their daily occurrence at the same time. Often, I was caught out in the rain without the advantage of a place of shelter, a raincoat, or even an umbrella. You would think I would have learned, but I did not.

Shelter in a rainstorm is not essential for maintaining life, but it sure is nice. What is essential for shelter in a storm is a place to eventually dry off. A place to change into something dry, a warm fire if the downpour was cold, and a place to wait it out. Tropical rainstorms are not cold, but they are very wet.

What about life? What about a place to find shelter in our storms? A place to seek help, coverage, protection and rest. A place for healing, if need be. A place for comfort and solace. God is all of that and more. When we seek Him, He is that protection from the enemy, the storm, the accusations. Instead of the shame being thrown at us, He covers us with His love and acceptance.

In the Law of Moses, God provided places for those needing refuge who had committed manslaughter. There were six of these safe places in and around Israel. They were called “cities of refuge”. No part of Israel was more than 30 miles from one of them, and the roads were always kept clear, the city gates kept open and maintained by the priests. It was made easy for the people who needed asylum as they tried to escape the avenger of blood until trial because it was easy to reach and provided easy access once there.

God is our refuge. As King David wrote in Psalm 16, it was in God whom he sought refuge. Not only was David a king, but he was also a shepherd. He understood the need for a place for protection from the enemy, the place for comfort, a place for healing.

A sheep pen was typically used at night with the shepherd sleeping/standing guard in the doorway or entrance. The shepherd would keep watch for predators and would always know where each of his sheep were located. Jesus Christ calls Himself the “Good Shepherd” in John 10:14. He also calls Himself the gate for the sheep (John 10:7-9). He is also the cleft in which we hide (Exodus 33:22).

When we place our trust in Jesus as Lord and Savior of our lives, we are kept safe in Him from the avenger of blood. We all have fallen short of the glory of God because no one is good (Romans 3:23). The wages for our sins is death (Romans 6:23). But Jesus Christ became sin for us (2 Corinthians 5:21) so we may be reconciled to God (2 Corinthians 5:11-21). This means Christ is a like city of refuge for those who place their trust in Him. He is easily accessible from wherever we are. The road is kept clear and the door is always open. We can escape and find asylum in Him. Christ is our Defense, our Refuge, our Hope. He is our Life. He is our Savior.

When we feel we need to run, hide, and to find shelter form the onslaught of gossiping mouths, the mudslingers, and the enemy bent on revenge, we can run straight to Jesus and He will protect us.

What’s holding you back?

If you are unsure of Christ’s love for you, ask Him to show you. If you are unsure of acceptance in His presence, ask Him to be that covering, that protection from God’s wrath. Find the perfect shelter in Jesus and rest knowing He is for you, not against you. He is waiting for you to come to Him.

Let’s Pray: Father God, even before the Old Testament people understood the full meaning of a city of refuge, You established them. Even before they understood the need for salvation, You provided it, and You provided a Way through Your Son, Jesus. Even before we knew we needed shelter from our enemies and from Your righteous judgment, You provided everything we would need. I am amazed at Your goodness, Your Sovereignty, Your grace. I am thankful and I accept it. Thank You, Lord. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

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Song of Reflection #1: “He Hideth My Soul” by Wintley Phipps. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “A Secret Place” by Karen Clark Sheard. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “Psalm 23” by Dr. Juanita Bynum. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #4: “Now Behold the Lamb” by Kirk Franklin featuring the church and choir scene from “The Gospel” movie. Listen to it here.

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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: God's love for you stays steady and forever true

An Uninterrupted Love in a Disorienting World
A devotional by Kim McGovern

“For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”—Romans 8:38-39 (NIV)

I opened the Night Sky app on my phone and lifted it to the night sky. Its light shone brilliantly against the ink-blackness of the Atlantic Ocean.

Here I was, on a ship in the middle of nowhere, relying on technology to find what sailors had followed for centuries. The phone's glow ruined my night vision, but I needed its help. Everything looked different out here. No landmarks, no light pollution—just stars upon stars upon stars, an overwhelming sky in which the ones I knew were nowhere to be found.

Growing up, I'd always thought the North Star was the navigator's friend—fixed and reliable. But I'd recently learned that magnetic north actually shifts. The pole wanders. What I thought was unmovable...moves. How disorienting.

Isn't this exactly how spiritual disorientation begins?

The pastor we trust is embroiled in scandal. The healing we claim by faith doesn't materialize. The marriage we thought God blessed falls apart. The church that felt like family wounds us deeply. The child we raised in faith walks away. And God? He seems silent right when we need Him most.

Our hearts latched onto these things like fixed points we could navigate by. When they shift—or shatter—we don't just lose the thing itself; we lose our sense of direction. When what we hoped was reliable proves unreliable, we're left spinning in the dark, wondering if God Himself has moved.

That's where my heart lingered for months. Reeling from disappointments I never saw coming. And here I stand, holding up my phone like a cosmic translator, needing an app to tell me what I used to know by heart.

Vega. Altair. Deneb. The app traced the Summer Triangle, and suddenly I could see the massive pattern I'd been looking straight through. Three of the brightest stars in the sky, yet millions of dimmer ones blinded me to their pattern.

The Summer Triangle is not a constellation itself, but an asterism—three stars from three different constellations creating one absolutely reliable navigational pattern. Sailors have trusted it for millennia because, unlike instruments prone to fail, magnetic poles that wander, or human feelings that lie, these stars hold steady.

I lowered my phone and let my eyes adjust. The Triangle blazing overhead had been there all along, even through every one of my dark months.

In my disorientation, I’d forgotten that the Gospel isn't that God will protect us from disappointment—or that churches won't wound us, bodies won't fail, or prayers will always be answered as we expect. The good news is that God loved us so much He sent His Son (Jesus Christ) to deal with the one thing that could actually separate us from Him for all eternity—our sin.

Jesus didn't stay in Heaven, simply sending us better navigation instructions. He dove headfirst into our chaos. Fully God and fully man, He lived the perfect life we couldn't live. Then, on a cross—shaped like Cygnus above me—He took every sin, every separation, every disorienting darkness we would ever face. He died bearing it all. And three days later, He rose, proving that nothing—NOTHING—could ultimately separate us from God's love anymore. Not failure. Not unanswered prayer. Not rejection. Not a diagnosis. Not even our doubts in the dark.

“For I am convinced,” Paul wrote from prison, listing every cosmic force that might threaten us, “nothing will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 8:39 NIV)

God’s love doesn't depend on our ability to feel it. It depends on what Jesus has already accomplished; it's not maintained by our steady faith but by His finished work. The Father sent it. Jesus secured it. The Spirit seals it within us.

The ship rolled gently. Other passengers had retired to bed, but I remained on deck, no longer needing the app. The Triangle blazed overhead, pointing toward the river of light known as the Milky Way.

Tomorrow, the ground might shift again or another trusted thing might fail. But tonight, under stars that have watched a thousand generations struggle with the same disorientations, I am reminded that the love of Jesus holds steady—even when everything else shifts.

It blazes on—an uninterrupted triangle of love in a disorienting world that no disappointment can ever extinguish.

Let's Pray:

Heavenly Father, when everything we thought was fixed starts shifting—when trusted voices fail us, when healing doesn't come, and when You seem silent—remind us that Your love isn't anchored in these things. It is anchored in what Jesus accomplished at the cross. Thank You that no disappointment, betrayal, or disorientation can separate us from the love You secured forever. Help us navigate by this truth when we cannot trust our feelings. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “Just to Know You” by Mark Schultz. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “Your Love Never Fails” by Chris Quilala / Jesus Culture/Jesus Culture Music. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Kim McGovern is passionate about helping women reorient their hearts to the uninterruptible love of Jesus Christ. 

A former IT professional turned writer, she meets women in the messy middle of faith—where grief, joy, doubt, and hope often collide. Her work draws from decades of ministry leadership, special needs advocacy, and personal seasons of surrender that deepened her dependence on God's presence.

Kim's writing has been featured by Proverbs 31 Ministries, Encouragement for Today, Joyful Life Magazine, (in)courage ministries, Truly Magazine, and numerous other faith-based publications.

She and her husband savor the quiet rhythms of life on Florida's west coast in Homosassa, where the river serves as their backyard playground. They have four grown children and grandchildren who daily remind them that the best stories are still being written by God's grace.

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Connect with Kim:
Website: https://kimmcgovern.com/
Substack: https://kimmcgovern.substack.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_kim.mcgovern/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KimEMcGovern/

Devotionals for the Heart: How to trust God's timing in every season

More than Frost on the Roof
A devotional by Melissa Henderson

“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.”

—Ecclesiastes 3:1 (NIV)

As I write this devotional, the weather forecasters are predicting a bad winter storm to cover the Lowcountry of South Carolina. Weather models from across the world show possible patterns that the storm may follow. As I listen to the urgency in the voices of news reporters, I look outside and see frost on the roof.

Growing up in Virginia, my family was familiar with four distinct seasons. When we moved to South Carolina, we learned that there are basically two temperatures for the Lowcountry. Warm and hot. Yes, sometimes there are unusual temperature drops, as well as the occasional snow and ice storm. Those occurrences happen every few years.

One way I gauge the temperature during winter is by checking the roofs of neighborhood homes. Each morning, I look to see if there is frost or ice covering the tops of the houses. I also look at vehicles. If there is frost or ice covering the vehicle, I know that the morning is freezing cold.

Today, the roofs and cars are covered in ice. There is more than a light covering of frost. Checking the weather app on my phone, I see the temperatures are supposed to be in the 60s later today. This morning, the temperature was 27 degrees. There will be a dramatic change as the day progresses. Yet, I should not be surprised at the weather. Scripture shares that there is a time for everything. There is a season for every activity. This morning, people will wear coats, hats, and clothes. This afternoon, we’ll change to short sleeves. The coats will be hung back in the closet.

Sometimes, we question God’s timing. We pray and beg for answers. We cry, lament, and wonder why our prayers are not immediately answered. But our prayers are answered. Those requests are heard by God and answered in His perfect timing. People in church circles say that God may not come when you want Him to but He is never late. He is always on time. During my breast cancer diagnosis and treatment almost 21 years ago, I was comforted by the people God placed in my life to remind me of His presence and love. New friendships were formed with my doctors, nurses, and other medical professionals. Those relationships continue years later through conversations, cards, letters, and emails. God provided answers to prayers by sending people who would understand my cancer journey.

As the sun rises in our neighborhood, I see evidence of the air reaching warmer temperatures. Small areas of frost and ice on the roofs and cars begin melting. A fog rolls in, and sunshine peeks through the cloudy sky. Birds are awake and visiting the feeders. Buses are picking up children to transport them to school. Folks are walking their dogs. Neighbors are waving hello to each other. Gloves and scarves are being removed as the temperatures warm.

Yes, there is more than frost on the roof. There is evidence of God’s creations and His glory. I pause and thank God for this warm home and for answered prayers. I thank God for His answers in His timing. Tomorrow may bring another weather change. But I’ll be ready. I’ll start the day by giving thanks to God.

Let’s Pray:

Dear God,

We give thanks for the changes that the seasons bring to the world. Help us to remember that your timing is always perfect and that You have the best plans for our life. In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “Always On Time (Bella Cordero)” by Elevation Worship. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “Seasons” by Benjamin William Hastings. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “God of All My Days” by Casting Crowns. 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: You are beloved by your Maker (God)

It Changes Everything to Know You Are Beloved
A devotional by Anne Madison

“A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.”— John 13:34 (KJV)

There is a word that shows up all throughout the Bible. It is easily browsed over without much thought yet deserves a second look. The word is “beloved”.

Beloved is not said casually. It is not a compliment simply thrown around. Beloved, according to Merriam-Webster Dictionary, means “dearly loved” and “dear to the heart”. I would also say that it means you are deeply loved, completely cherished, and fully valued. Most importantly, beloved is what God calls you. Being beloved is not based on accomplishments; it is about who you are at the core of your being. Beloved. Before you even took your first breath, before you did one thing, God loved you. In Jeremiah 31:3 (NIV), God says, “I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with unfailing kindness.”

God’s everlasting love, like beloved, is not something earned. It is not, “I’ll love you if you get it right” or “I love you because you serve me.” It is simply, “I will love you forever.” No conditions or expectations. Everlasting love is love that is given freely, without requiring anything in return. In a world that is always telling us we must push harder and look better to prove our identity and worth, it is easy to feel like we will never measure up. But God looks at you, just as you are, and says, “You are enough. You are truly cherished and cared for. You are beloved because of my everlasting love for you.”

But what about when you mess up, are in a bad mood, or are plain outright mad at God for something you feel He failed to do for you? The answer is your being beloved does not change. Romans 5:8 (NIV) says, “While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” That means God loves you even when you are at your worst. He loves your doubts, flaws, mess, and all.

No need to prove your worth to God your Creator. You do not need to measure up to earn His love or prove your value, because His love and value of you have already been determined. That truth changes everything. It frees you from trying to earn love and instead lets you live from love. It sets you free to live beloved, to show up in the world as someone who is so sure of God’s love that there is not room for proving anything.

What does it look like to live as beloved? Living as beloved means letting go of the striving to be loved. It means reminding yourself that your mistakes do not define you. Living beloved is living as the truest you. It holds space that allows you to live as a beloved child of God. And it means seeing and treating others as beloved too.

Therefore, the truth is you are beloved, so is the cranky neighbor next door that calls animal control every time your dog barks. So is the playground bully trying to find his or her place in the world. So is the struggling single parent who is always late for things, whose kids are unkempt, and who always needs something. Because you are fully loved (flaws and all) you can treat and love others without judgment. Just as in Jesus Christ we are beloved by God, so are those around us.

Right now, take a second. Breathe. Let this truth settle in: You are beloved. Say it aloud. “I am beloved.” Not someday. But right now. Just as you are.

Let knowing that you are beloved by God be your anchor when life feels overwhelming. Let being beloved speak louder than the lies that you do not and never will measure up. Let this truth move you to love others, not to prove anything, but from the fact that you are fully beloved. You are precious. You are priceless. You are beloved. Rest in this status.

Let’s Pray:

Dear God,

Thank You for loving me just as I am. Not for what I do, not for how well I perform but because You made me and call me beloved. Somedays it is hard to believe that, so help me hold onto this truth. When I forget, please remind me. Show me how to live fully loved and help me love others the same way. Thank You for calling me beloved. Help me to see myself how You see me. In Jesus’s name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “Beloved Let Us Love One Another” by Psalty. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “It’s Time to Own Your Belovedness” by Sarah Kroger. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “Even at My Worst” by Blanca. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #4: “My Beloved” by Kari Jobe. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #5: “God Loves You” by Jaci Velasquez. Listen to it here.

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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.

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

Devotionals for the Heart: God's mercies and faithfulness in our life

Between These Walls
A devotional by Colleen C. Howard

“For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.”––Psalm 100:5 (NIV)

Years ago, while house-hunting, my husband and I walked into a new house that had never been occupied.

We’d seen multiple listings and expected this one to disappoint like the others. As I lingered in its not-quite-finished rooms, a distinct feeling hovered over me. This felt more than just another listing. It was meant to be our home.

Somehow, I knew our teens would become adults between these walls, and we would grow older. Life would happen here. Sorrows and sadness, laughter and love, and the seemingly ordinary days that sometimes take your breath away would wash over our hearts and move us forward in life. God gave me a tiny glimpse of the future, and I was certain it would occur in this home.

Thirty years ago, we moved into this brand-new house, and it became our home. But in 2025, the time to say goodbye was knocking at the door of our hearts. We had to answer these important questions:

What will we leave behind? A house that served us well. It survived the desert heat, winds, and monsoon rains. Its walls, roof, and foundation are still in good condition despite the passage of time. But when we step out, we’ll leave behind our home and a piece of ourselves.

What will we take with us? Memories. Between these walls, there were celebrations—birthday parties, graduations, and anniversaries. Loved ones were lost while we lived here, and we mourned. Five grandchildren were loved, prayed for, and rocked to sleep in our arms. Five generations of our family have graced this house with their presence and their precious memories will remain in our hearts forever.

How will we say goodbye? With sadness and fondness. God saw us through victories and defeats, anger and reconciliation, and a multitude of unexpected events. Each moment we’ve spent here has reminded us that we’re part of God’s family, and His faithfulness is never-ending. Our hearts overflow with gratitude for the grace, comfort and mercies we’ve received from our Savior (Jesus Christ) while living between these walls.

We’re three decades older now. Our children are grown and our grandchildren are teens and young adults. When our moving day arrived, we said a heartfelt “Goodbye” to this home that served us well and a hearty “Hello” to the new adventures God has planned for us. Praise be to God, who is always faithful, good, and His love is never ending.

Let’s Pray:

Dear God,

Thank You for your faithfulness to us. We move through time and seasons seamlessly without giving it much thought. Help us to navigate our days with grace and heighten our awareness of your presence in our lives. Help us to notice the signs of shifting seasons and prepare us for the changes to come. As seasons come and go, we will turn to you our Lord and Savior. Praise be to God. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Great Is Thy Faithfulness” by Carrie Underwood ft. CeCe Winans. Listen to it here.

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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.

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Connect with Colleen:
Website: authorcolleenchoward.com

Devotionals for the Heart: How to love others like Jesus Christ loves us

How To Spell Love
A devotional by Maureen Miller

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.”—John 3:16 (ESV)

Love. It’s both noun and action.

Do you feel the love? This is a sentence that portrays the word “love” as a noun. I will love you forever. That sentence portrays love as a verb.

One of the greatest “love” verses of all time tells of the greatest action by the One who loves us the greatest. The Bible says in John 3:16 (ESV), “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.”

I am grateful for God’s love, made tangible by His Son (Jesus Christ) after He died to save our souls then rose again, now living forever as our High Priest in Heaven. Jesus intercedes for us daily before our Heavenly Father (God). He is our bridge between Heaven and Earth. But with God’s love comes a mandate. He says in John 13:34-35 (NIV), “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.”

So, if love is a verb, then what does it look like when put in action? How about putting love in action with three four-letter words: look, hear, and pray.

Love Spelled L-O-O-K

Consider look synonymous with see. To recognize. Know. Is there anything more satisfying in regard to relationships than being seen? Truly known by another, be it a spouse, child, parent or friend?

Hagar, the maidservant of Abram’s wife Sarai, fled into the wilderness, distraught and in despair. Far from her Egyptian family and estranged from Sarai due to carrying Abram’s child, she felt alone. Afraid. But God met her in her despair, then spoke to her. He saw her. Hagar, perhaps for the first time in her life, felt truly known. Scripture tells us in Genesis 16:13 (NIV): She gave this name to the Lord who spoke to her: “You are the God who sees me,” for she said, “I have now seen the One who sees me.”

How about us? How can we love like the Lord by seeing—truly knowing and recognizing—others? When we lead busy lives, this takes intentionality. This spelling of love requires prayer. Ask the One who sees and knows every heart to guide us in our relationships to helps us better look (love) like Him.

Love Spelled H-E-A-R

We love others when we hear them. That is, when we listen. Have you ever shared something with someone? After pouring out your heart to them, perhaps they ask you a question that lets you know they hadn’t really heard what you were saying. He or she was not truly listening. Honestly, how does that make you feel?

Consider the love Jesus Christ demonstrated when he heard the Samaritan woman at the well. According to Jewish customs, our Savior should not have spoken to a Samaritan. But God’s Son often went against rules of the times to do that which was righteous, and His interaction with this hurting woman is no exception. In the moments He spent with her, Jesus listened to her heart and, in turn, her heart was changed by Him.

But it wasn’t just her heart that was changed—the lives of everyone who heard her testimony were changed for the better too. Now they believed in Jesus Christ as the Savior of the world (John 4:39-42). Did you catch that? It was because of the woman’s testimony. Jesus listened to her and she, in turn, shared. Those who listened to her—and, eventually, Jesus—believed too because they heard.

What a beautiful love cycle! Pray and ask the Lord to create in you a listening heart—one intentionally engaged with others in a manner that spills over, resulting in changed lives through the power of your God-given testimony.

Love Spelled P-R-A-Y

The very best way to love another is this four-letter action—that which we too often take for granted. What’s the saying? “Prayer—it’s the very least and the very most we can do for another.” How true. Jesus set the standard for this particular love in action, teaching us how to pray to God in Matthew 6:9-13 (KJV).

As we pray to our gracious, merciful Heavenly Father (God) with an earnest desire to love others well, acknowledging He who in His holiness, knows all and loves all perfectly, we rest assured. He will guide us to love like Him. And what could be better? For us to love others like Jesus—the One who sees, hears, and, while on earth, prayed—is the perfect way to love others, today and always.

Let’s Pray: Kind Father, please enable us to love as You love. Help us see others through Your eyes, hear them with Your ears, then pray for them in the pure love of our Savior, Jesus Christ. May the love of Christ fill our hearts and minds today and always. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “How Beautiful” by Twila Paris. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “Love God Love People” by Danny Gokey. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “Savior to Me” by Kerrie Roberts. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Maureen Miller is an award-winning author with stories in more than twenty collaboratives. 

She contributes to All God’s Creatures published by Guideposts, her local newspaper, and several online devotion sites, including the award-winning Arise Daily and Inspire A Fire.

Married for 36 years to her childhood sweetheart Bill, she enjoys life with their three born-in-their-hearts children and three grand-girls, not to mention a variety of furry beasts. They live on Selah Farm, a hobby homestead nestled in the mountains of western North Carolina.

Maureen is a speaker, as well as the chaplain of her local Word Weaver critique group. She writes posts online via the “Windows and Wallflowers” blog where she tells of God’s extraordinary character discovered in the ordinary things of life.

Her favorite thing is to encourage others in their journey with Jesus Christ.

Maureen’s debut novel, Gideon’s Book, is now available.

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Connect with Maureen:
Email: Maureen.miller913@gmail.com
Website: https://maureenmillerauthor.com

Devotionals for the Heart: Why we should take time to spend with God

Don’t Lose the Wonder of Spending Time with God
A devotional by Patricia Russell

He says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations,

I will be exalted in the earth.”—Psalm 46:10 (NIV)

I have watched, on several occasions, a bee buzzing from flower to flower looking for food. The proper word is for this action is “foraging”.

Apparently, as they are doing this, sticky hairs from the flowers get on them, and they transfer that to other flowers. By doing this, they are fertilizing other flowers, enabling plant production. This is the beauty and the marvelous wonder of God's creation. Watching these bees and their activity causes me to be still and to marvel at what I see. It’s very peaceful and relaxing. Yet it’s something that we often miss out on when we don’t slow down and take time to ponder and admire how God created nature and causes His creations to work together.

Just like it's important to take time out to “smell the roses”, as we would say, God longs for us to take time to be still in His presence. For many of us, we are rushing to meet daily deadlines and catch up with the latest newsworthy story, while feeling pressure to express our opinion at every turn on social media. Yet I believe God is calling us with greater intensity to slow down and enjoy His presence. There’s a Bible story about this when Jesus Christ visited Mary and Martha. We can read about this in Luke 10:38-42.

Martha was very annoyed at the fact that her sister was sitting at the feet of Jesus and simply listening to Him. Sometimes I think there was envy in Martha's heart. I think she may have wanted to forget about preparing the food for her guest and simply sit down then see if anyone noticed. These sisters were both wired very differently but Mary was more consumed with the words, with the atmosphere and with the enrichment she was receiving at the Master's feet. Yes, we all have responsibilities. However, I know that we too can take the time to lay aside the preparation of food and delay some things that may seem necessary for the benefit of enjoying the presence of the Most High God. How can we do this?

We do this through fasting and giving our bodies rest. Our bodies work very hard. Maybe we work our bodies too hard. Yet when we can stop, sit, read and drink in from the life-giving source of the Word of God (The Holy Bible), close our eyes and meditate on what He says to our spirit then we will experience a fullness in our spirit that cannot be compared with anything else. The best food prepared for our bodies to consume can’t be compared with the satisfying nourishment of God’s Word because it nourishes our spirit.

When we give our bodies a break from food it has a twofold purpose: It allows us to stop and dive into the food of the Word of God which heals our minds and refreshes our spirit. Secondly, we allow our physical bodies to rest and to heal.

There as been a growing interest in North America on the power of fasting from a physical perspective and some who do not talk about Christ are even understanding to some degree that there is a spiritual benefit. So, let’s be like Mary in the Bible. Maybe for half a day or even a day, let’s block our calendar and commit the time that would be used to prepare food or go out and eat, to walk out in nature and converse with our Creator who longs to speak with us.

God wants to share His heart with us, build us up and draw us close to Him.

Let's Pray:

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank You for calling us and speaking to us even through your wonderful creations that we see in nature. Help us to pause long enough to admire your handiwork in this world. Thank You for waiting for us to sit at your feet and simply listen to You. Give us a thirst for more of You today and in the days ahead so that we can hear your heart and draw closer to You. In Jesus’s name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “Constant” by Maverick City, Jordin Sparks, Anthony Gargiula, feat. Chandler Moore. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “Be Still and Know” by Steven Curtis Chapman. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “Draw Me Close” by The Katinas. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #4: “Draw Me Nearer Medley: I Am Thine, O Lord/Draw Me Close” by Patricia Russell. Listen to it here.

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Author Bio:

Patricia is a worship leader, songwriter, speaker and compiler of her 2020 best-seller anthology Stronger Resilience: Stories to Empower the Mind, Body and Spirit, as well as Lord I Trust You: Words of Encouragement to encourage readers and share life lessons during her cancer journey. 

Patricia writes, speaks, and teaches on the power of God’s Word to heal and empower you to become all that you are purposed for. She has traveled internationally and shared her gifts with audiences to encourage, empower and share life lessons through word and song. Patricia has sung on national television broadcasts and shared the stage with several respected speakers including Anne Graham Lotz and Rev. E.V. Hill.

Her greatest joy is being married to her husband, Wayne, for 34 years. Together they serve the community through their local congregation as well as providing premarital and marriage coaching. They have two adult children, Raquel and Benjamin. As a two-time breast cancer overcomer, Patricia coaches’ others to develop resilience and live life to their fullest.

Patricia has released two gospel music recordings: “Draw Me Nearer” and “Lord, I Trust You”. In March 2022, she launched her podcast “Becoming Resilient” which can be downloaded wherever you get your podcasts and also seen on YouTube.

When not reading or studying, Patricia loves to eat Thai food and spend time with “Lucy” – her daughter’s Yorkie-poo who has taken up room in her heart.

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Connect with Patricia:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/patrussellsings/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pat.russell.98877/
Email Patricia: patrussellsings@gmail.com