Devotionals for the Heart: When you allow God to cover you with His love

His Covering of Love
A devotional by Maureen Miller

“Let him lead me to the banquet hall, and let his banner over me be love.”

—Song of Solomon 2:4 (NIV)

“She’s…” Our son choked on his words. “She’s here.” Ian paused, then added, “But she’s in the NICU. Please pray she’ll be okay.”

After hanging up from that 3:00 a.m. phone call, my husband Bill and I lay there in the dark. There was nothing we could do but pray. And pray we did.

The next day, we were permitted to visit our third granddaughter. Our son and daughter-in-law named her Maci Lynn. She was born six weeks prematurely. The precious one we knew rested in the loving hands of our Heavenly Father (God).

Entering Maci’s cubicle, we witnessed the tubes and contraptions that kept her lungs pumping and her heart beating. I marveled at the medical miracle. If not for these scientific masterpieces, Maci’s life likely wouldn’t last, at least not this side of heaven. I breathed a prayer, “Thank You, merciful Father.”

Not able to hold her, all Bill and I could do was sit with Ian, offering support with our presence and silent petitions. Our daughter-in-law was hospitalized in a separate unit. She’d lost a lot of blood prior to the emergency C-section. Though stable, she’d not yet been released.

Only a few feet away, Maci lay under a strong, protective plexiglass covering, a sterile shield from germs. It was in the quiet of that space, with only the repetitive, rhythmic ticking of a monitor, when I heard God’s whisper: I’ve promised you My protective covering too. Each element is for you and the safety of those who you love. Pray for My full armor of protection for Maci Lynn.

Of course. The full armor of God. I’d recently become familiar with a song by a favorite Christian artist. On her music album, “Be Held: Lullabies for the Beloved”, Christy Nockels sings of this particular truth: the armor that’s ours, covering our loved ones and us from head to toe. I searched for this melody on my cell phone, then—holding my device just over the plastic dome—hit play. Maci’s tiny body rose and fell as the lullaby filled the cubicle, Christy’s lyrics reminding us of God’s promised protection, that which Paul describes in Ephesians, chapter six.

Let’s read about God’s armor in Ephesians 6:10-18 (NIV):

Belt of Truth (Verse 14a)

I asked God to help me remember His Truth as the enemy whispered lies into my mind such as:

“She’s not going to make it. Look how frail. How peaked.”

I shook the snide voice from my mind, replacing it with truth from Psalm 23. Quietly, I personalized that Scripture for my granddaughter: The Lord is her Shepherd. The Lord is her Shepherd.

Satan is a liar, but this piece of God’s protective covering wields truth—the opposite of what our enemy offers. In Maci’s situation, we could be overcome with fear, held captive by Satan’s insidious lies, leading to discouragement and despair, threatening our intercession. In a broader sense, Satan’s lies are everywhere. One can’t turn on the television without being bombarded with both subtle as well as overt deceptions that tell us we’re not enough. 

We need our belts of truth to discern what is biblically right and wrong that we might stand protected against Satan’s lies.

Breastplate of Righteousness (Verse 14b)

Proverbs 4:23 (NIV) tells us, “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” A breastplate protects one’s heart.

Regarding Maci, Bill and I were susceptible—as were Maci’s parents—to discouragement. In some manner of speaking, her situation broke our hearts. Seeing her struggle, wondering if she’d pull through, was wearisome. But God called us to intercede on her behalf, and nothing hinders one’s prayer life more than feeling overwhelmed and afraid.

How about you? Have you been called to petition but feel stuck, bound by fear and anxiety? Put on your breastplate to guard your heart from discouragement, then press on. Find passages of scripture that become your anchor in this difficult season, replacing wrong thinking with right thinking. Yes, righteous thinking.

As the Apostle Paul exhorts in his letter to the Philippians 4:8 (NIV), “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”

Shoes of the Gospel of Peace (Verse 15)

Our footwear not only protects our feet; it carries us to those with whom God intends our paths to cross.

As Bill and I spent time with our granddaughter over those six weeks, we had opportunities to be light to others. Jesus Christ’s peace shines through His children, and I believe our presence made a difference. Though there were times we felt afraid and lacked peace, our dependence on the Lord was our source of strength. Perhaps other frightened parents with little ones in the NICU heard Christy Nockels’ song as I played it time and time again. Maybe they saw us praying over Maci Lynn. I hope it made a difference, bringing encouragement.

And in our peace-depleted world, how can we continue to carry God’s peace to others? In our workplaces? In our children’s schools? In our communities? Yes, even in our churches and in our homes?

Put on your footwear and walk, praying about all the places God might be calling you to offer His peace.

Shield of Faith (Verse 16)

How we needed to hold on to our faith in God as we waited and wondered regarding Maci. Some days, it seemed like we white-knuckle-gripped our shields. However, on other days, we were able to hold more loosely.

In ancient times, a shield wasn’t merely a small piece of protective metal; it was a full-length covering from head to toe. When gathered, soldiers would create entire domes of protection from the enemy’s flying darts, crouching together in military formation.

We know faith isn’t holding to that which is seen but what is unseen (Hebrews 11:1). Like the soldiers behind their collective shields who couldn’t see the racing arrows aimed their way but trusted their armor to do its job, we need to hold on by faith in life’s battles too.

Bill and I couldn’t see what was ahead regarding our precious Maci, but we trusted her caregivers, believing they knew what they were doing. And we knew her Heavenly Father loved her immeasurably more than us, and He had a plan. God has a plan for each of us. So, hold tight to your faith, His protective shield surrounding you in all seasons, even in the dark when you can’t see ahead.

Helmet of Salvation (Verse 17a)

During this difficult time with Maci, it was easy to allow our thoughts to turn toward fear rather than stand in faith, trusting God with our sweet granddaughter. But He reminded me I needed to take thoughts captive, making them obedient to Jesus (2 Corinthians 10:5). Furthermore, I needed to apply the words from a favorite children's song about being careful what we allow our eyes to see. If I simply looked at teeny-tiny Maci, my mind was flooded with what ifs, but when I chose instead to put on my helmet by singing songs of praise or claiming scripture promises, I was saved from what often felt like a pit of despair.

The same is true for you, friends. Your helmet of salvation is your protective head covering—helping guard your thoughts, despite what you see. It’s amazing what happens when we take our worrisome, troubled thoughts captive, replacing them with truth from God’s Word—whether spoken or in song, even long-ago Sunday School tunes that we sing in church.

Sword of the Spirit (Verse 17b)

Bill and I were promised protection from the enemy who came to steal, kill, and destroy (John 10:10). Not only did Satan want to steal our precious newborn granddaughter; he desired to kill our faith and destroy our peace. But God called us to be light where Satan wanted darkness in the NICU of the hospital where so many were hurting, anxious, and afraid. Only by walking in truth—truth from God’s Word—could we allow our suffering to be used for good.

When we hold out our swords, wielding them in every battle by applying biblical truth to our circumstances, we will be victorious. This is a strategy unlike that which the world appropriates, but it won’t go unnoticed. When others see and hear a Christian’s method of warfare, they can’t help but wonder from where such courage comes. Then we get to testify to the goodness—the faithfulness—of our loving, ever-present Father (God).

God’s Covering of Love

More than two years have passed since our regular visits to the NICU. Maci Lynn is two years old now and thriving in every way. Looking back, that season is surreal, but I’m so thankful for it. It taught me more about trusting God, especially when things are out of my control.

I’ll continue praying for the full armor of God to cover Bill, myself, our children and grandchildren. After all, we need it more than ever in this dark age where Satan lurks, knowing his time is coming to an end.

Recently, I was reminded. In Song of Solomon, the bride professes her love, adding that the king has brought her to his banquet table—a place of abundant joy. More beautiful than this, however, is the king’s covering, the protective banner he places over his bride. Indeed, his covering of love!

How beautiful! To think Yahweh-Nissi (“The Lord is my banner” defined in Exodus 17:15) was there in that NICU cubicle as Maci Lynn lay under her protective, plastic cover, hooked to tubes and monitors. It was Him who spoke to my heart that day, asking me to play “Head to Toe” over our sweet grand-girl, covering her with His full armor through scripture song.

And Yahweh-Nissi is with us too, promising never to leave us. God’s Word is our weapon, and His protective banner is ours until the day when we’re with Him, face to face. Yes, His covering of love.

Let’s Pray:

Dear God,

Thank You, merciful Father. Thank You for Your constant presence and Your promise to never leave. Thank You for Your Word which is our light in all darkness, a sword in every battle. And thank You for Your full armor—each element for our protection and our good. May we be courageous in all life’s battles, bringing You glory until You call us home. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “Head to Toe (The Armor of God Song)” by Christy Nockels. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “The Warrior is a Child” by Twila Paris. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “His Banner Over Me” by Cheri Keaggy. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #4: “Battles” by The Afters. 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.

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

Devotionals for the Heart: How to support people experiencing grief

You Lost Her Baby Too: A devotional for Grieving Grandparents
A devotional by Patti Schultz, Ed.D.

“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.”

—2 Corinthians 1:3-4 (NIV)

I have lost more babies than I have fingers.

I said goodbye to every one of them before I ever got to hold them. Each time, well-meaning people filled the silence with something, anything, to make the moment feel less unbearable. Words like these: “She's in a better place” and “At least you know you can get pregnant.” And “God needed another angel.” I nodded because I didn't have the strength to do anything else, and I tucked those words away in the same box where I keep the ultrasound pictures and the tiny hospital bracelets. The words are still there and they still sting.

What I wish someone had known, what I wish I had known, is tucked into two Bible verses most people skip past. In the Bible story about Job, his friends heard what happened to him and they rushed to support him. Job’s friends sat with him on the ground for seven days and seven nights. Scripture says, “No one said a word to him, because they saw how great his suffering was” (Job 2:13 NIV). Seven days. No talking script. No Bible verse tucked into a frozen meal. Just three men sitting in the dirt beside a man who had lost everything, letting his grief be the only thing in the room.

When I experienced grief after the loss of each of my babies, I didn't need anyone to explain why. I needed someone to sit on my kitchen floor with me while the chicken noodle soup went cold on the counter.

In the Bible, the Apostle Paul writes that God comforts us in our troubles so that we can turn around and comfort someone else with the very comfort we received (2 Corinthians 1:3-4). That verse means something different to a grandparent than it does to almost anyone else in your daughter's life. You are not just a bystander to her grief. You have grief of your own, comfort of your own, scars of your own from griefs long before this one. That comfort you were given, however it came to you, however long ago, is exactly what she needs from you now.

You may not know quite what to say to your daughter, or what to do with your own grief in all of this. You lost a grandchild too—sometimes more than one—and you are watching your own child carry a weight you cannot lift for her, no matter how much you wish you could.

Here is what passing that comfort forward can look like, in the ordinary hours of an ordinary week: Let her say the name out loud, even at year six, even at year sixteen. A due date will still ache. A song on the radio will still catch her off guard in the grocery store parking lot. Let it. Skip the reasons. Skip the plan, the purpose, the silver lining. Just say, “I don't understand this either. I'm here.” God never gave Job an explanation for his profound suffering. He gave him presence instead. That is still the better gift, and it is the comfort you can hand down.

Remember with her, not just for her. Ask about the memory she keeps returning to. She has already noticed who says the name and who changes the subject. Be gentle around other grandchildren. “At least you have the others” cuts deeper than silence ever could. Show up in the small, unglamorous way: A thoughtful text message on the anniversary. Sitting on the floor when there is nothing left to say. That kind of silent support is like Job's friends, all these centuries later, still sitting in the dirt beside someone they love.

You are grieving too, in your own quiet way. That matters to God as much as your daughter's grief does. The comfort you were given somewhere along the way was never meant to end with you. Stay close, stay soft, and let her know that whatever she feels, however long it lasts, she does not have to carry it alone. Neither do you.

Let’s Pray:

Dear God,

Be near to my daughter (or daughter-in-law) in the way only You can. Help me love her well while I grieve this too. Let the comfort You have given me somewhere in my own losses become the comfort I hand to her now.

In Jesus’ name, I pray.

Amen.

~*~
Songs of Reflection #1: “Blessings” by Laura Story (ASL cover by Meg W). Listen to it here.

Songs of Reflection #2: “Sparrows” by Jason Gray (ASL cover by Amber Shorter). Listen to it here.

Songs of Reflection #3: “Draw Me Nearer” by Meredith Andrews. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #4: “My Prayer for You” by Alisa Turner. Listen to it here.

~*~
Note from Patti for you: If you or someone you love is walking through the loss of a grandchild, know that you are not walking alone. Feel free to share your own story or a memory with me at pattischultz.com. Our community is here to weep, and to hope, together.

~*~
Author Bio:

Dr. Patti Schultz’s inspiring journey weaves a tapestry of compassion, resilience, and divine hope. 

Formerly a public school principal, professor, teacher, and interpreter for the deaf, she now dedicates her life to a heartfelt ministry rooted in her personal experiences.

As a mother to three miracle boys here on Earth and a member of a heavenly soccer team, Patti’s story is one of unwavering faith and profound love. Her decade-long battle with infertility and recurrent loss fuels her deep compassion for grieving mothers, guiding them toward healing through the comforting embrace of Jesus Christ’s garment.

Patti’s gentle wisdom offers a safe haven for women navigating pain, reminding them they are never alone. Through her ministry, she seeks to envelop grieving mothers in divine comfort, encouraging hope, renewal, and the reassurance that God's love is always near, wrapping them in His compassionate hem as they walk the path to healing.

Living in northern Michigan, she cherishes precious moments with family and community, drawing strength from faith and connection.

~*~
Connect with Patti:
Website: pattischultz.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.pattischultz/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.Patti.Schultz
Email: dr.patti.schultz@gmail.com

Devotionals for the Heart: Why we should seek God's Kingdom first

Seek First: What Has to Move Before Everything Else Falls into Place
A devotional by Heidi Lewis-Ivey

“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.”—Matthew 6:33 (KJV)

There’s a word most of us skip right past in our anchor text above: first.

We read it in Matthew 6:33 the way we read a stop sign we've driven past a thousand times—technically registering it, not actually stopping. Seek first the kingdom of God? “Sure. Of course,” we may think. Then we go right on seeking whatever we were already seeking, with God added somewhere near the top of the list instead of in first place at the very top.

I've read this verse more times than I can count. But sitting with it again recently, I got stuck on that one word in a way I hadn’t before. Not “seek God” in general. The word first, which means everything else in me has to be willing to move.

The verse was never really about what to add. It's about what needs to be reordered. When we read The Holy Bible, we see that Jesus Christ doesn't hand this verse about first seeking the kingdom of God to His disciples out of nowhere. Prior to the “seek ye first” sermon, Jesus spent several verses talking them down from anxiety. According to Matthew 6:31–32 (NKJV), Jesus said, “Therefore do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things.”

I want you to notice something here: Jesus doesn't treat worry and misplaced priority as two separate problems. He treats them like the same problem. The anxious questions “What will I eat?” or “What will I wear?” or “Will I be okay?” are really questions about what’s sitting on the throne of a person's heart. Worry is what happens when something other than God has been quietly put in charge of your security. His prescription isn't “worry less.” It's “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you” (Matthew 6:33, NKJV). Not “Manage your anxiety better.” Reorder what you're seeking.

What Was Actually Sitting There

This is where it stopped being theoretical for me. I had to ask myself honestly: What have I been seeking first? Not what I’d say out loud in church. What my calendar says. What my mind drifts to the moment nothing else demands it. What I reach for when I'm anxious.

Jesus had already named the competition a few verses earlier, and I think it’s easy to read past this one too: “Lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven...For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:20–21, NKJV).

Treasure isn't only money. It's whatever I've quietly organized my life around protecting. And most of us have treasure we've never actually said out loud. Treasures like comfort, approval, control, the appearance of having it together. Seeking the kingdom first was never about adding God to a list that already has a king on it. It's about letting Him remove whoever's currently sitting there, even when what's sitting there feels harmless.

A King Who Actually Did This

While I sat with this passage about seeking God first, I kept coming back to the Bible stories about King Solomon. God gave him about as open an offer as a person can receive ask for anything. He could have asked for wealth, long life or the defeat of his enemies. Instead, King Solomon said, “Give to Your servant an understanding heart to judge Your people, that I may discern between good and evil” (1 Kings 3:9, NKJV).

He sought something aligned with what God had actually called him to, not just what would make his own life easier. And Scripture tells us exactly what happened next: God gave him the wisdom he asked for and the wealth and honor he never asked for. Remember: King Solomon didn’t seek riches and hope wisdom would tag along. He sought rightly, and the rest was added.

What Actually Gets Reordered

Here’s what I needed to hear myself: Seeking the kingdom first was never about abandoning the rest of life. Jesus says those things are added, not stripped away. But they need to come second. Paul puts it in slightly different words when he says this in Colossians 3:2 (NKJV), “Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth.”

That’s not a call to disengage from work, family, or responsibility. It’s a call to hold all of it with an open hand instead of a closed fist to let God's kingdom be the thing everything else gets organized around, instead of squeezing Him into whatever space is left over after I’ve secured everything else first.

Where I Landed

I walked away from sitting with this passage less concerned with what I needed to add to my life, and much more aware of what needed to move. Seeking God's kingdom first was never about doing more for God. It’s about letting Him take the first place that something else—comfort, control, approval, even things that are good—has been quietly occupying. The Bible says in Psalm 37:4 (NKJV), “Delight yourself also in the Lord, and He shall give you the desires of your heart.”

Reordering costs something in the moment. It always does. But it's the only way the rest of it ever actually falls into place. Think about what needs to be reordered in your life. Write it down. Don’t condemn yourself. Allow God’s Holy Spirit to show you what’s out of order. Ask Jesus, “Lord, what am I still holding on to that You are asking me to place on the altar?”

You don't have to have it all figured out before you come to Him. He’s not waiting for a perfect response, just an honest one. Whatever comes to mind as you sit with that question, don’t push it back down. Bring it right here, right now, and let this be the moment you lay it down. Let’s turn that honesty into prayer.

Let’s Pray:

Heavenly Father,

I confess that I haven't always sought You first. I've let comfort, control, approval, and a dozen smaller things quietly take the place that belongs to You. Forgive me for the ways I've managed my own life instead of surrendering it for the times worry revealed exactly who, or what, I was really trusting.

I don’t want to just add You to what I’m already seeking. I want You to lead. Take the throne of my life back: my time, my decisions, my fears, the things I hold too tightly. Where I’ve built my own house while Yours sits unattended, forgive me, and give me the courage to trust You to reorder what I’ve let drift.

I trust that as I seek You first, You will take care of the rest, just as You’ve promised. Have Your way in me, Lord. Lead me, Lord, and I’ll follow.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen.

~*~
Song of Reflection #1: “O Come to the Altar” by Elevation Worship. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “Withholding Nothing Medley” by William McDowell. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “Just Want You” by Travis Greene. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #4: “Nobody But Jesus” by Kelly Price (feat. Vanessa Bell Armstrong). Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #5: “First” by Lauren Daigle. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #6: “First Things First" by Consumed by Fire. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #7: “Lead Me Lord” by The Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Heidi Lewis-Ivey is an affirmed prophet and an internationally acclaimed speaker. 

She impacts audiences with her authenticity and bold style of delivery. She has had the opportunity to minister in Trinidad, St. Thomas USVI, Manchester and Liverpool (England).

Heidi is an award-winning and bestselling author. She is the author of Can I Rest Awhile? and Black Girl Cry: What Black Women Need to Know to Amplify Their Voices. She is a co-author in Soulful Prayers (Volume 1 and Volume 2) and Soulful Affirmations. Heidi is the convener of the Encountering the Courts of God movement and the founder of Visions International, a training ground for five-fold ministry gifts.

She holds a Master of Business Administration in Organizational Leadership from Norwich University and a Bachelor of Science in Management from Boston University. Heidi is the CEO of Nael & Associates Inc and franchise owner of Patrice & Associates recruiting firm. She is a member of the Pentimenti Women Writers Group, a former mentor with Year Up, former board member for Friends of Young Achievers, and a Diversity Equity and Inclusion Strategist.

Heidi is the proud aunt/great aunt of 14 nieces and nephews and two bonus nieces. They are her joy. The older nephews have become her protectors.

Heidi is an NFL football fan. As a child, she taught herself the game. In 2017 she won her NFL.com fantasy football league. Heidi is an avid reader (Audible listener) of romance novels, a lover of purses and handbags, and a tea snob who believes bling is always appropriate.

She lives in Boston, MA.

~*~
Connect with Heidi:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamheidi01
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/heidi-lewis-ivey

Devotionals for the Heart: Are you ready to meet Jesus Christ?

Are You Ready?
A devotional by Colette Christopher

“And just as each person is destined to die once, and after that comes judgment, so also Christ was offered once for all time as a sacrifice to take away the sins of many people. He will come again, not to deal with our sins, but to bring salvation to all who are eagerly waiting for him.”—Hebrews 9:27-28 (NLT)

It is easy to believe we have time on our hands. When asked about doing something, we usually say, “Tomorrow,” or “I will think about it and let you know tomorrow.” But what if tomorrow never comes?

The Apostle Paul tells us in Hebrews 9:27-28 that Jesus Christ made the ultimate sacrifice for our sins. He reminds us that each of us has an appointment with death, and that after death there will be a judgment. These words were not written only for us to read and not respond; they call for a decision. This decision is a life-and-death one, and the choice we make determines our eternal resting place. We are living in a time when so much is happening that it seems our soul destination is not uppermost in our thoughts.

I think of our Heavenly Father’s great love for us: He sent His only Son (Jesus) to die for us (John 3:16). Our response to that love is revealed in the choice we make. We can say yes today or postpone the decision until tomorrow. The question Jesus asks us is the same for everyone: “Will you choose Me today?”

Yet our answers differ. The recent tragic flooding in Nepal that claimed many lives was painful to witness and a powerful reminder of the anchor Scripture (above). What people fail to realize sometimes is that tomorrow isn’t promised. When asked if we choose Christ, it is important to not delay that decision because the Bible says tomorrow is not promised (James 4:13-14).

This question of “Are you ready to meet Jesus?” has been lingering in my thoughts for the past couple of weeks. Some of my closest friends have lost their loved ones within the last two months either tragically or without warning. Some had put off their decision to choose Jesus until tomorrow. Others made the decision to choose Christ today.

“You can’t speed up nor slow down death.” The Holy Spirit spoke these words to me in my mind as I mourned with my friends through their loss and mourned the loss of one of my best friends. I heard the next question in my heart: What did these deaths have in common? “They all passed suddenly,” I responded. Then God gently said and they all had time to decide. Because we can neither speed up or slow down death. We cannot know when we will die. Therefore, what we do with our lives matters and the choices we make in either saying yes or we want to wait until tomorrow to decide has eternal consequences now.

The Bible says in Hebrews 3:15 (NLT), “Today when you hear his voice, don’t harden your hearts as Israel did when they rebelled.”

I don’t know where you are in your faith walk with Jesus Christ. Maybe you have said yes to Him or may still be on the fence, or you may be waiting for tomorrow. Wherever you are, I encourage you to take this decision very seriously.

None of us know when we will die. Therefore, the best response to the Holy Spirit’s tug on your heart should be to say yes today. It will be the best decision you will ever make in your life, as not only will all your sins be forgiven, but you also have the assurance of eternal life with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Nothing else is more important than this life-changing decision because it determines where we will spend eternity.

Let’s Pray:

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank You for sending your only Son who was sinless, to die on Calvary’s cross to pay the price for our sins. Lord, I pray for every person reading this devotional today. Remind them of your love, and that your plan for us to spend an eternity with you. Wherever they are in their journey with you—whether on the fence or waiting on the “right” time—I ask that You will impress on them the urgency of deciding to follow Christ. Lord, have your way in their lives and let your plans and purpose for them be accomplished. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

~*~
Song of Reflection #1: “Tomorrow” by The Winans. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “Can You Reach My Friend” by Helen Baylor. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “I Will Follow Christ” by Clay Crosse, Bebe Winans, and Bob Carlisle. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Colette Christopher is an empowered woman who inspires women to be who they were created to be. Her core message is empowerment. She is an author, certified life coach, podcast host, and trainer with the Maxwell Leadership team. 

Colette believes that an empowered woman empowers others and is powerful in knowing who she is and what she can accomplish. Colette is on a mission to impact the lives of the women assigned to her, whether she is their coach or trainer or shares a word that will transform their lives.

Colette utilizes her Christian principles as the base of all her engagements. She is passionate about fulfilling her life purpose of empowering women to know who they are, rebuild their confidence, and use their voices as tools to uplift themselves and others.

​​She is the founder of the M.E.E. Movement L.L.C., a faith-based empowerment ministry business that helps women of faith rebuild their confidence and use their voice to walk in their purpose through life coaching, mentoring, and empowerment speaking. Colette believes in using the gifts God has given her to help women be who God has called them to be and ultimately fulfill the purpose for which they were created. She lives by Romans 8:28 (NIV), that promises, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."

A native of Jamaica, Colette resides in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. She is the mother of two beautiful young women, a son-in-love, and two grandsons. Colette enjoys reading, writing, watching good movies, and chatting with her daughters and friends.

~*~
Connect with Colette:
Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2367935
Email: Colettemarieonline@gmail.com

"Praying God's Blessings in Christ as We Suffer" (book) by Dr. Lauri Hogle

The Story Behind Dr. Lauri Hogle’s book, Praying God's Blessings in Christ as We Suffer: Scripture Prayers for the Hardest Days:

Several years ago, after a second brain surgery that brought only partial relief, I lay in bed wrestling with unrelenting chronic pain.

Kind friends, wanting the best for me, would say they were praying for God’s favor and blessing so that the suffering would finally stop. Their words were full of love, yet each time I heard them I felt an anguished cry rise within me: But I already have His favor and blessing!

In the quiet of my tears, God reached into my hurting heart. He flooded me with the rich truths of Scripture and the voices of faithful hymn writers who had walked through their own valleys. Songs like “Great Is Thy Faithfulness” and “Blessed Assurance” became lifelines. Ephesians 1:3 exploded into living reality: “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places.” I began to see that the greatest blessings are not the absence of pain but the presence of Christ Himself—pardon, peace, adoption, eternal life, the indwelling Spirit, and a guaranteed future glory.

These truths did not remove my affliction, but they reframed it. They gave me language to pray when words failed and songs to sing when sorrow threatened to drown out hope. That experience birthed this book, Praying God's Blessings in Christ as We Suffer. I wrote it because I desperately needed these truths myself, and I know many others do too.

Too often, Christian teaching on suffering focuses primarily on asking God to take it away. While there is nothing wrong with crying out for relief, Scripture invites us into something deeper. Even in the darkest nights, we are called to remember what God has already given us in His Son (Jesus Christ). The Apostle Paul, writing from prison, could still praise God who “has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing.” If that was true for Paul in chains, it is true for us in chronic illness, grief, disability, or any form of ongoing tribulation.

This book is not a theological treatise or a step-by-step guide to “victorious living.” It is a lament prayer book. Each chapter draws from God’s Word and pairs it with hymns and prayers that help us speak Biblical truth to our souls when pain, fear, or doubt scream the loudest. Each chapter is filled with the honest tension many of us feel—prayers for earthly comfort colliding with the deeper reality of spiritual riches we already possess.

I wrote this book for fellow sufferers who know Jesus as Savior and Lord. Whether your pain is physical like mine, emotional, relational, or the heavy burden of watching a loved one endure hardship, these pages are for you. I also wrote it for those nearing the end of earthly life who wonder if greater tribulation awaits.

My prayer is that this book will function as a healing balm and a gospel trumpet for weary souls. I hope readers will discover, as I did, the power of praying Scripture back to God—thanking Him for His past faithfulness, His present mercies, and His future promises. I want sufferers to be able to sing with fresh confidence: “Blessings all mine and ten thousand beside!”

I hope the book helps shift our gaze from what we lack to what we possess in Christ. When chronic pain flares, when grief feels crushing, when the future seems frightening, may these prayers and songs anchor us in the unshakeable reality of our union with Jesus.

One of the old hymns included in the book says it beautifully: “Ten thousand blessings it contains/Divinely rich and free/or helpless, wretched, ruined man/Though vile and base as we.”

That is the heart of the gospel. It is not a message for the strong or the comfortable only. It is especially sweet for the weak, the afflicted, and the needy. I pray this book helps readers feel welcomed at the throne of grace, not as those who must first “prove” their worthiness or “fix” their circumstances, but as those already purchased by the blood of the Lamb.

Writing this book has been an act of worship born out of my ongoing chronic pain. It has forced me to preach the gospel to my own soul day after day. Some mornings I can barely whisper the prayers; other days I sing them through tears. But every time I return to these truths, my heart finds rest. My hope is that your heart will too.

If you are suffering today, know that you are not alone. Bring your tears and fears to the Lord. Let His Word wash over you as you pray. May you leave these pages more deeply convinced that you are blessed in Christ—truly, eternally, and presently—whatever your circumstances may be. And may we together “bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits” (Psalm 103:2).

That is why I wrote Praying God's Blessings in Christ as We Suffer: Scripture Prayers for the Hardest Days. Not to offer false hope of earthly ease, but to point us to the living Hope who holds us fast. May He use these prayers to comfort, strengthen, and sustain you as you walk through the valley, until we see Him face to face.

In Christ’s love,

Lauri A. Hogle, PhD

~*~
Author Bio:

Lauri A. Hogle, PhD, music therapist, music educator, and church musician, heads Singing Christ's Hope, a nonprofit ministry found at singchristhope.org. 

Her words and musical offerings have touched lives across the globe. 

Lauri's Bible study prayer books, including "Praying God's Blessings in Christ as We Suffer," "Near to God," "Praying God's Promises Into Suffering," "Singing the Gospel to Job," and a children's book, "In the Valleys of God's Love," are complemented by weekly playlist gifts for suffering Christian women.

Her lifelong passion is to glorify God through music, teaching, research, and writing. By God's gracious blessing, in many years of serious illness, her great joy is as wife, mother, and Nana.

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Back cover copy for Lauri’s book: 

Amid chronic suffering, tribulation, or our life's final days, where does a Christian find hope? This poignant and powerful book invites you to discover the unshakable blessings already yours in Christ, within your deepest suffering and pain.

Written during Lauri’s journey of severe, chronic physical affliction, this book weaves together short lament prayers, Biblically grounded hymns, and Scriptures about God’s unending favor toward His beloved in Christ. This 90-day devotional is a tender companion for anyone facing trials, offering a pathway to sing and pray of God’s past, present, and future blessings to those united with Jesus.

Whether you’re enduring chronic suffering, fearing future tribulation, or seeking peace in life’s final moments, Praying God's Blessings in Christ as We Suffer is a healing balm for your soul. Let it lead you to cry, “Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits” (Psalm 103:2 ESV), as you rest in our faithful Lord’s continual blessings in Christ.

~*~
Connect with Dr. Lauri:

Website: singchristhope.org

Substack: https://lauriahogle.substack.com

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@singingchristshope?si=cYHRjf5fA1Y9_gyE

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SingChristHope

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauribellehogle

Devotionals for the Heart: Life lessons learned from the time our house stunk

Our Stinky House 
A devotional by Melissa Henderson

“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.”

—Psalm 46:1 (NIV)

In May 2026, Alan and I began a journey of problems with our home.

We experienced two floods that were totally unrelated. One was from a new washing machine drainpipe that jumped out of the wall and filled the laundry room with water. A week later, on the opposite side of the house, a condensation line broke and dripped water into the walls and the floor of one of our bedrooms.

Throughout the months of heartache, we have found joy. Our once nice-smelling house has now become a stinky house. These things are major to us, but minor in comparison to what other people are experiencing in their lives. We lived with dehumidifiers and fans for 18 days. Workers replaced the flooring and now have to replace some of it again, due to the wrong sheen. Painters have worked repairing drywall and painting, while trying not to spill paint on new carpet.

As each day comes and goes, Alan and I worry, lament, and fuss over the mess we are trying to handle. Yet, with all those problems, along with my medical issues, we find joy. Recently, Rowan and Eden (our grandchildren) came to “help” move boxes and see the mess. Eden opened the back door, walked into the living room, and said, “Your house stinks.” We laughed because we knew she was correct. The cardboard boxes, new carpet, paint, and dust do have a certain stinky smell…especially to a young child.

We explained why it smells and that everything would be back to normal soon. The house will have new paint and carpet. Eden and Rowan walked into our bedroom and immediately noticed the softness of the carpet. They sat and rubbed their fingers across the new carpet. “Nice. This feels good. I could sleep here.” Their comments were reassuring.

Alan and I have been dealing with many odd and unusual experiences since June 2025. We realized that spiritual warfare is real. We’re holding on to God’s promises He will get us through these times. For every worrisome thing, there is something that makes us laugh and brings us joy.

As I write this devotional, we’re waiting for the painters to arrive. The local news reports that traffic is backed up on the highway that the painters take to get here. More delays. Yet, God knows what is happening. God knows His plan. We can rest and find comfort knowing His peace covers us in every moment.

For now, the house is not stinky. When the repairs are complete, there will be a new floor, fresh carpet, and beautifully painted walls. The home will be new. Yet I pause to remember that our beautiful home on Earth is temporary. Our eternal home is with God in Heaven. Oh, what a joy it will be!

We thank God for grandkids who make us laugh and help us remember what is important. The stinky house now smells good.

Let’s Pray: Dear God, thank You for guiding us through each moment. Thank You for loving us. Prepare us for Heaven, Lord. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

~*~
Song of Reflection #1: “How Good God Is” by Brandon Lake. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “Trust in God” (feat. Chris Brown & Isaiah Templeton) by Elevation Worship. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “Somebody Prayed” by Crowder. 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: When God calls us to contribute our resources

Contributing Resources for the Cause of Christ
A devotional by Kerry Sue Teravskis

“Joanna, the wife of Chuza, Herod’s business manager; Susanna; and many others who were contributing from their own resources to support Jesus and his disciples.”

—Luke 8:3 (NLT)

Reading biographies about missionaries is something I take great delight in.

There’s something about the faithfulness of God and the faith of believers who experience living in another country or culture. The true stories of these men and women sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ with people who have never heard of nor experienced Him, are captivating! I sit on the edge of my seat as I read about these missionaries facing their own set of lions and giants and facing impending death, defeat, or destruction. I admire them for always giving God the glory, no matter what the outcome.

Even more amazing, is how God answers the prayers of these missionaries. From seemingly impossible odds, timelines and cultural clashes, God shows Himself mighty. He is powerful and His Name is awesome. So many times when His Name is challenged, He acts extraordinarily. Many missionaries open new territories for Christ though that comes with its own unique challenges for the believers to live their lives following Christ to a people who have not yet heard of Him.

The challenges are immense: language being one of them and culture being another. What we know and understand in our own home, town or country, feels foreign to the locals who we are serving as missionaries. Grasping a new language can take years, and for some, it is elusive. Then, if the Bible is not written in the local language, learning enough to translate it, or sections of it is paramount so the people have the Bible in a language they can understand.

But what if that language has not been written down, or if the people are illiterate? Countless years are spent in translation work as well as teaching literacy to a people who crave to read God’s Word for themselves. It is here where I delight in seeing God move. And also here, where I delight in seeing the missionaries give of themselves immensely so that the Gospel goes out.

In the anchor text at the start of this devotional, Luke mentions a few women (and prominent ones at that) who contributed their own funds to support Jesus and His disciples during Christ’s ministry on Earth. Luke made a point to tell us it was their own funds, their own supplies, their own time, their own resources that these women contributed to sharing the Gospel and building God’s Kingdom.

They gave of themselves so the gospel would go out. And in so doing, they served the Lord. And because it was while Jesus was ministering on earth, they served Him personally. This could be very practical needs they needed such as food and lodging, or it could have been time, friendship, prayer, sharing the good news themselves with those who were in front of them. The possibilities are endless.

It’s like the Bible book of Acts came to life in the 19th century, 20th century and 21st century. So many times, these missionaries needed government officials to approve building construction, churches, schools, hospitals, or runways for planes. Yet, the decision rested solely on the desk of an official who could be corrupt and not willing to deal without the bribe being paid or even because of the lack of understanding, they have an unwillingness to give the approval necessary to move forward. Imagine the scene: piles and piles of household goods and luggage at an airport or at the docks. The wearied travelers who had left home, family and loved ones to follow Christ only to be stuck at the first entrance to the country where they felt called to go. This scenario has been repeated repeatedly—in my own life as well!

How does one act, respond and do so in a foreign language? It’s not easy. Prayer is the only answer. Seriously. Jesus tells us in Mark 11:23 that we can tell the mountains in our lives to move and it will happen. This is what I enjoy reading about in these biographies. I love seeing Jesus’ words come to life. But the backbone behind all of this is prayer.

We remember James as he wrote in James 5:17 (NIV). Elijah was a man just like us and he “prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years.” Do we pray earnestly? For the lost? For the impossible? For rain when it’s not the rainy season? Do we pray for money to build churches, hospitals and schools that would be places of opportunities to share the gospel while meeting the needs of the people?

No doubt Joanna did. And Susanna. And many others. Just to name a few: William Carey, Hudson Taylor, Amy Carmichael, Mother Teresa, Jim Elliot, and Billy Graham. These are only a few examples of people who were called to give—and willing to give—of their time, talent and treasure to tell the world about our Savior.

But what about you and me? What is God calling us to do? Is He calling you to go? It could be to Africa where I recently went and found it to be transformative. It could be to drive across the street to meet someone in their need. It could be to walk across the aisle in church or to chat with someone standing next to you in line at the store or anywhere else you go.

What would you contribute? Your time—not only going, but in prayer. Finances, if God lays it on your heart. And what gifts do you have, or skills that you know which can contribute to a project?

Are you willing to prayerfully consider giving of yourself—whether it be time, a talent or two, or treasure? We have been given this immense opportunity to follow Jesus Christ and share this good news. How can you follow in the footsteps of those who have gone before you, and those who are currently serving God, giving, and praying?

Let’s Pray:

Dear Heavenly Father,

Reading about what these women and others did to serve You out of their own pocket gives me a strong desire to do so likewise. But I am at a loss of what that could look like. Would You please show me? I am finding myself willing—willing to listen, go, send, do. But I need direction from You. I want to live sold-out for You and experience You in ways I only read about. I want more of You. Help me, Lord. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

~*~
Song of Reflection #1: “I Will Go” by Steve Green. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “I Will Go” by Crystal Lewis. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “The Mission Field” by Blessid Union of Souls. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #4: “Sold Out” by Helen Baylor. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #5: “The Cause of Christ” by Resolved. 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