Devotionals for the Heart: Why we should let God carry our grief

God Can Carry Your Grief
A devotional by Heidi Lewis-Ivey

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” 

—Psalm 34:18 (NIV)

Grief is one of the heaviest burdens we can carry. It can feel overwhelming, like a storm that will never pass.

When someone we love is gone, or life doesn’t go as we hoped, pain can consume our thoughts and even disrupt our daily routines. Sleep can become elusive, meals may lose their appeal, and even small tasks can feel monumental. But God is not distant from our suffering; He draws near to us in our sorrow.

When I experienced the unimaginable loss of my brother, I felt as if I were walking through a dark tunnel with no light in sight. Questions ran through my mind: “Why did this happen? We were supposed to grow old together!” “What do I do with the void in my heart?” “How can I move forward and not feel as though I’m forgetting him?” I felt weak, vulnerable, and alone. But in the midst of my grief, I had to turn to God’s Word to rediscover that He was closer than I imagined. Psalm 34:18 reminded me that God is near to the brokenhearted, and His presence is a source of comfort even when life feels heavy.

Grief is not a journey we are meant to walk alone. God’s Word promises that He will walk with us, offering comfort, strength, and hope. Yet, walking with God through grief requires intentional steps, a willingness to open our hearts to Him, and patience with ourselves.

Here are four ways I learned to lean on God when grief feels unbearable:

Way #1: Bring your grief to God in prayer.

1 Peter 5:7 (NLT) says, “Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.” God wants to hear and feel your pain, your tears, and even your anger. Prayer is not just about asking for relief; it is about giving God permission to carry the weight because you can’t. Be honest with Him. Pour out your heart don’t hold back. There is freedom in knowing that God hears you and understands every ache.

Way #2: Seek comfort in Scripture.
Psalm 147:3 (NIV) says, “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” When grief clouds our hearts and our minds, Scripture becomes a guide through the dark places. Reading and meditating on God’s promises allows us to see that He is a healer, and our pain does not define the entirety of our story. Over time, His words provide the comfort our souls desperately need.

Way #3: Let the Holy Spirit guide your healing.
John 14:16-17 (NLT) reminds us the Holy Spirit is our constant helper. Jesus Christ said in this verse, “And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate, who will never leave you. He is the Holy Spirit, who leads into all truth. The world cannot receive him, because it isn’t looking for him and doesn’t recognize him. But you know him, because he lives with you now and later will be in you.” Grief can make us feel disoriented or lost, but the Holy Spirit gently leads us, reminding us that we are not alone. By listening to His guidance, we can find small measures of peace each day and begin to experience healing even in the midst of sadness.

Way #4: Take small steps toward restoration.
Ecclesiastes 3:1 (NIV) says, “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” Healing is not instant. Grief has its seasons, and each person moves through them differently. Allow yourself to feel, to remember, and to grieve fully, but also trust God to guide your steps forward.

Closing Thoughts:

Grief taught me that it is okay to move slowly. It taught me that leaning on God is not a sign of weakness but a pathway to strength. When I allowed myself to trust God, to bring my pain to Him, and to follow the guidance of His Spirit, I began to feel light return to my heart. Peace replaced some of the heaviness, and slowly, I am beginning to see life with a new perspective one shaped by God’s enduring love.

Even when grief lingers, God’s presence transforms it. The pain may not vanish completely, but His comfort makes it bearable. He provides hope, restoration, and peace that the world cannot take away. God is patient with us. He does not rush our healing or force us to “move on” before we are ready. He walks beside us every step of the way, offering love that never fails.

Take heart in knowing that your grief is seen, your tears are known, and your pain is held in God’s hands. Lean into His promises. Pray without hesitation. Read His Word (The Holy Bible) for comfort. Listen to God’s Holy Spirit for guidance. Take gentle steps forward, trusting that He will bring you to a place of peace.

Let’s Pray:
Father God, thank You for being close to us in our grief. Thank You for holding our hearts when they are broken and for comforting us with Your presence. Help us trust You fully through our pain. Teach us to lean on Your Word, listen to Your Spirit, and take small steps toward restoration. Thank You for never leaving us alone, for healing our hearts, and for bringing hope where there seems to be none.

In Jesus’s Name I pray.

Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “God Restores” by Dynamic Praise. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “The Reason for the World” by Matthew West. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “Meet Me There” by Lydia Laird. Listen to it here.

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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.

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

Devotionals for the Heart: Why we should trust God and not lose heart

Don’t Lose Heart
A devotional by Erica N. Bryant

“I would have lost heart, unless I had believed that I would see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait on the Lord; Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart; Wait, I say, on the Lord!”—Psalm 27:13-14 (NKJV)

Waiting has never been one of my strengths.

Every day, I ask the Lord to help me cultivate patience in my life. One of the passages He gave me is Psalm 27:13-14. It has become one of my life verses that I carry close to my heart.

Psalm 27 was written by King David. Scholars cannot pinpoint a specific time in is his when he penned this psalm. Some even say that it may be two psalms combined. But what matters is the feeling behind the psalm. David was going through something hard, and his words are still so relevant and relatable.

When life gets tough, it's easy to quit, give up, or lose heart. Trials have a way of pushing you past your breaking point. Hurt, pain, betrayal, and abuse can make you abandon your hope and turn away from what is true. David experienced all these things, too. But for David, there was something that kept him anchored in the brutal winds and waves of life. That something was hope in the Lord and hope in the promises God has made to him.

David was confident that he would see God's goodness in his lifetime. When David said he will see the goodness of God “in the land of the living” (Psalm 27:13), he was declaring that he would not die before he experienced the fullness of God’s promises. He would live to see it happen. What God promised him would come to pass and because of that hope, David refused to give up!

This is the kind of hope we should have. When we face hard trials, quitting seems logical and even reasonable. But hope in God goes against logic and reason. It is rooted in faith in a Heavenly Father who is able and willing to shine His goodness on us in ways that bring life to dead and impossible situations. Even in the waiting season of our lives, when we confidently trust that we will see the goodness of the Lord, we will experience His promises fulfilled if we hold on to Him.

When things look bleak, when you feel like you can’t take one more thing, and when it seems like it’s all over, hold on to hope. Wait with confidence in God’s promises, knowing you will experience God’s goodness in your life.

When you feel like you want to quit, remember Jesus Christ. Have you placed your faith in Jesus? Do you believe that all God’s promises are fulfilled and confirmed in Christ (2 Corinthians 1:20)? Don't believe the enemy's lie that says you were made to suffer or that things will always be bad. Counter that attack with Biblical truth and believe you will see the goodness of God in the land of the living.

Embrace this beautiful truth found in Psalm 27:14. It says that as we wait on the Lord, He will strengthen our heart. He will help us stand strong and bravely endure even the fiercest storm. He will help us have courage when we need it most.

Friends, don't lose heart! Believe in God’s goodness, mercy, and loving kindness. Remember: Jesus has overcome the world! Keep the faith so you can see His goodness in the land of the living!

Take some time to think about these questions below or write them down in your journal. Ask the Holy Spirit to show you where you can grow and then take steps to live out God’s Word:

Question #1: Is my faith firmly rooted in the hope that I have in Jesus?

Question #2: Do I truly believe that I will see the goodness of the Lord, or am I skeptical?

Question #3: Am I courageously facing the storms in my life as I confidently wait on the Lord?

Let’s Pray:

Dear Heavenly Father,

Waiting is hard, and I am often impatient. Yet, today, I choose to trust You. Help me to anchor my hope in Your promises. Strengthen my heart as I wait on You. Fill me with courage to face every storm and remind me that Your goodness is coming in the land of the living. Teach me to hold fast to hope, confident in Your faithful love.

In Jesus’s name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “Wait on the Lord” by Donnie McClurkin. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “Goodness of God” by CeCe Winans. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “Don’t Lose Heart” by Steven Curtis Chapman. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #4: “Promises” (feat. Joe L Barnes & Naomi Raine) by Maverick City | TRIBL. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

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

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

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

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

Erica is a devoted wife and loving mother who actively serves in various roles at Strait Gate Deliverance Center, where her father, Bishop Jerome Rogers, is the Pastor and Founder.

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

Devotionals for the Heart: When it is time to listen to God and pray to Him

Time to Listen
A devotional by Melissa Henderson

“Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and He will establish your plans.”

—Proverbs 16:3 (NIV)

Throughout the year, my email inbox is filled with ways to cultivate a relationship with God. The ideas include but are not limited to reading the Bible in a year, studying devotions for the weary, notes on ways to find joy in life, educational information about beginning healthy eating programs, and advice on how to “start over” in various parts of daily routines. These all flood my computer.

I appreciate the guidance and wisdom of people, but I’ve made my choice. I’ve decided to be still and make time to listen to God. As a writer, I need to check emails and phone messages several times each day. When I start my day by thanking God for His blessings, I find comfort and peace. When I start my day by reaching for the phone or sitting in front of the computer and scrolling instead of focusing on God, I’ve noticed how my body reacts in different ways.

Sharing time with God first thing every day before I touch technology brings me peace and comfort. Does that mean I won’t have troubles during the day? No. God has told us that we will experience trials and suffering. But we can face those troublesome times knowing that we are not alone. God is always with us.

I have a note taped to my computer that says, “PRAY FIRST”. That note reminds me that in all areas of my life, I should go to God first. There is a different outcome when I try to handle things on my own. However, when I seek God first before trying to figure everything out by myself, I find answers and peace.

Noises of the day can try to overshadow what God intends for my life. I must be intentional in how I share time with God. Those moments with the Lord bring refreshment and renewal. When we read the Bible, we can see that Jesus Christ took time to listen to His Father (God). Often, Jesus would go away from the crowds to pray. Other times, He prayed aloud while people listened. Both examples show that Jesus knew the importance of listening to God. From retreating to a mountainside to be alone with His Father or sharing God’s message to a crowd on a hillside, Jesus listened.

Taking the time to listen to God can deepen our relationship with the Father. As we pause, pray, and listen for His Word, we are showing respect, honor, and love for God. In those quiet moments of listening, we may find answers to prayers. When we commit ourselves to God, we can rest in His promises.

In my daily prayers, I ask God for wisdom, discernment, and revelation. I wait and listen. God may provide answers quickly, or God’s response may come at another time. Either way, as I take time to listen, I rest in knowing I am not alone.

As I write this message, the house is quiet. Pausing, I listen. God speaks through nature. The rain tapping on the roof creates a beautiful melody. The cardinals, chick-a-dees, finches, and downy woodpeckers sing while visiting the bird feeders. A neighbor rides by in their vehicle. The sound of the car engine leaves as quickly as it came. Today is a quiet day in this neighborhood.

After Winter Break, school resumes. People who have day jobs will travel to work in the morning. Life will become busy for many people. I pray that in the midst of busyness and daily activities, may we remember to take time to listen to God. Start the day with prayer. Pray throughout the day. End the day with prayer. Those simple acts can bring us closer to God.

Let’s Pray: Father God, we give thanks for the opportunity to be still and listen for Your messages. Thank You for the sounds of nature and the beauty of creation. Please help us to remember to listen and rest in Your promises. We ask for wisdom, discernment, and revelation in every situation. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “People Need the Lord” by Steve Green. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “Speak” by Bethany Music. Listen to it here.

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Author Bio:

Award-winning author Melissa Henderson writes inspirational messages sometimes humming with humor. With articles, devotions, and stories in print publications and online, Melissa shares her love for God and life. Some of the inspirations for her writing come from family life. 

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

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

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

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

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

Devotionals for the Heart: God is always with us and He fights for us

God is Always with Us
A devotional by Kerry Sue Teravskis

“When they call on me, I will answer; I will be with them in trouble. I will rescue and honor them.”—Psalm 91:15 (NLT)

This Psalm in the anchor scripture above is a very well-known Bible verse. I have heard it also referred to as the “Soldier's Psalm”—and for good reason.

My father-in-law is Latvian. He was a small child when World War Two broke out. But even before the perilous times of that war, his family experienced danger because of their faith in God and the fact that his dad was a pastor. He tells the story about his father reciting Psalm 91 to them so many times during those awful times of peril and suffering. God’s promises are true—they saw God protect them through their plight, flight and horrible living conditions for many years.

God is faithful. He does protect us—and sometimes that protection looks like allowing a believer to die but not without the hope of going to Heaven. I wish I knew the heart and mind of God as our Heavenly Father to such an extent I could know the answers to all my questions of why, but I do not. However, I do know God is faithful, He is good and He is a loving Father. He is with us in times of trouble, He answers when we call and He rescues us.

Sometimes these answers look vastly different than we thought they would. It's rather like God says to us in Isaiah 43:2. We pass through the deep waters and rivers of difficulties. But God is with us through it all. We do not walk over a bridge to the other side. We put on our waders and walk in the water, on the river rocks, over the mossy river bottoms, encounter strong currents, dodge snags, and climb up the bank, wet, tired and ready for a hot cup of coffee, tea or cocoa.

We walk through the waters, we go through the trials, we experience hardships, but we do not lose. We do not walk away in defeat. We do not get eaten alive (so to speak), unless it is our Heavenly Father's will for us to encounter more than we thought we could handle. Ultimately, the victory is ours because God is our Warrior God and He fights for us (Exodus 15:3). We will not be cast down, we will not lose our salvation and place in Heaven, nor will we lose our inheritance (Ephesians 1:3-14). These are the most important things. We focus on the temporal, the comforts, the here and now. But God focuses on the eternal and the good work He is doing in us to make us more like His Son (Philippians 1:6).

I will admit I get tripped up here a lot. I like bridges over troubled waters. I am unsure of rushing rivers and snags. I do not like to get wet if I do not have to— especially on a cold, wintery day.

But God. He has plans for us and they stand firm forever (Psalm 33:11). They are so much better than we could ask or imagine. So, as we embark into this new year, let us go forward knowing God is already there in each day. He is with us in each trouble, fear, bear encounter, rushing river, relationship, health challenge and financial situation we may face.

May we always hold on to the hope we have in knowing that He is our God and He is a good, loving Heavenly Father.

Let’s Pray:

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank You for Your presence with me every single day. Whether I am in the river stepping on river rock, or climbing up the bank, You are with me. Thank You that you have always been with me in the past, will stay with me in the present and continue to be with me forever in the future. I am so thankful You do not leave me in the troubled waters alone. You are with me. Even though I walk through dark shadows, You are with me. I hold onto that promise and comfort from You for this upcoming year. And I hold onto You. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “You Are With Me (Psalm 23)” by Ginna Claire Mason. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “He is With Us” by Love & The Outcome. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “Good Good Father” by Chris Tomlin. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #4: “When You Walk Through the Water” by Allison Durham. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #5: “Fighting for Me” by Riley Clemmons. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

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

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

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

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

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

Devotionals for the Heart: Trusting God to do the impossible for us

Trusting God to Do the Impossible for Us
A devotional by Colleen C. Howard

“Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us.”—Ephesians 3:20 (NIV)

My husband, Ken, has been navigating a jungle of confusion regarding one of his prescriptions.

This particular prescription involves an injection he’s taken every two weeks for seven years. Each injection is extremely expensive to purchase. This started with one simple change to our medical insurance. It’s been a trial. Maybe you have dealt with similar issues. But as I began to think it through, I realized the actions we took were based on what we believed to be accurate. However, we were wrong.

People believe many things about themselves, others, and the world around them, but how much of it is actually true? Human behavior is based on what we believe to be true. If the meteorologist predicts rain today, we dress accordingly. If we think we can sing in the choir, we give it a whirl. If we believe all Scripture is God-breathed and was breathed into the heart of man by God, our behavior should reflect our belief. This is not to say we’re perfect, but God can do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine (Ephesians 3:20).

Ken and I have used an insurance broker’s consulting services for years. However, due to the manufacturer’s policy change, we would need to pay a large sum out-of-pocket to receive his injections throughout the year. The broker provided additional details, and Ken contacted all involved in the process, but the confusion over the changes to our policy was excessive. This was a recent policy change, and even company employees were not experts in the latest procedures. We estimated that he spent the equivalent of a 40-hour work week making calls, waiting for return calls, switching between multiple providers, and receiving conflicting information. 

Then, the unexpected happened: We received a message from the pharmaceutical company explaining Ken was approved for the payment assistance program he’d participated in for seven years. No one even hinted this was a possibility. The change in insurance indicated the assistance program was non-existent as of the first of the month. Why would we pursue a path we were told had been obliterated?

But God can do the impossible. He stretched His hand down and parted the waters of confusion. By clearing away the miscommunications, Jesus Christ wisely placed the solution for us in a text from the pharmaceutical company, which brought financial relief and filled our hearts with gratitude.

If we trust God to help us overcome the waves crashing against us, He will grow our faith and deepen our trust in Him. The next time you feel there’s no way to escape what you believe is inevitable, raise your hands to the heavens, proclaim God’s promises are true, and remember, God can accomplish so much more than we could ever dream or do on our own.

Let’s Pray:

Dear God,

Help us to trust your promises and not limit You by believing something is impossible. Help us to remember the times when we believed there was no way out and remind us how You came through for us. Thank You for your love, compassion and mercy. We rejoice in You and your never-ending faithfulness. We praise You, Lord! In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “God of the Impossible” by Lincoln Brewster. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “What an Awesome God” by Phil Wickham. Listen to it here.

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

Song of Reflection #4: “Hallelujah Even Here” by Lydia Laird. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

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

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

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

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

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Connect with Colleen:
Website: authorcolleenchoward.com

Book Spotlight on "God, Where Are You?" by Dominique Young

GOD, WHERE ARE YOU?: The Book That Started as A Cry!

A guest post by Dominique Young

The book “God, Where Are You?” was not something I dreamed of writing since I was young. 

In fact, I never actually thought I was capable of writing a book. This book came from navigating a place of pain with God and learning that He is with us in our pain.

Let me tell you the story.

When I was pregnant with my second son I was struggling with mental health issues, depression, anxiety and what I what I would later find out was perinatal psychosis. To be honest I had been struggling with my mental health for years before this point, but I kept it hidden.

I thought that being a good Christian and having the right faith meant that I didn’t go through these things. The presence of mental health struggles in my life made me feel like I was an unworthy embarrassment to Jesus Christ. I wanted to fix myself before anyone else found out I was a Christian imposter.

So, I kept my mental health struggles silent, I went into prayer lines and never told the person what to pray for and just said “pray as the spirit leads” hoping that someone would pray the exact right prayer to make all this pain go away. I read all the books on how to pray. But nothing was working and one day, after a massive mental breakdown I landed in a mental hospital on a 72-hour hold, because after taking myself to the hospital voluntarily and explaining to the doctor was happening, he surmised that I was a danger to myself and others.

This was the moment that changed everything and little did I know that this would be the moment that would be the catalyst for this book. I cried in that hospital asking over and over again, “God, where are you?” After being released I was determined to find God. I was determined to understand why He wasn’t helping me.

This search for God took me on an amazing journey of reading the Bible cover to cover multiple times, starting Bible studies with groups of women and listening intently as they shared, learning from each person in the room, enrolling in seminary and spending countless hours in prayer. What started out as a complaint to God and a frustration at God for not healing me the way I wanted ended up being a journey of amazing discovery.

It wasn’t until 2023 that I realized that God wanted me to write a book, and not just any book, a book that walked alongside people on journey of discovering God in the middle of pain.

My personal journey was really broken into three phases, I didn’t realize that when I was walking through it, but in hindsight I could see it clearly. First, I found myself. I was hiding and without coming out of hiding, I wouldn’t be able to see God. My face was so very masked and as you know masks at times disrupt your vision. Next on my journey I found God. I found that He was with me in ways I could never imagine, which actually confused me because if He is with me why didn’t He stop the pain? 

That question brought me to the leg of my journey that honestly, I am still in today which is learning that it’s about more that God zapping away all my problems it’s about God being with me through them and me being with Him through them. It’s about relationship.

I felt led by the Holy Spirit to walk with others on their journey in 2023. I hope to encourage them through my own story to be willing to discover God within the pages of their own story.

Honestly “God, Where are You?” did not start out as a book in my life. It began as a cry and that cry turned into a tear-filled journey. And that journey, by God’s grace and through the support of Jevon Bolden (my literary agent) and NavPress (my book publisher), it is now a book that can serve as a travel companion for others on the journey of finding God in pain, grief, depression, and darkness.

~*~
Author Bio:

Dominique Young is the founder of Faith Mamas Inc./Faith Family Worldwide), a community of 6,000+ Christian women and a private app serving over 1,700 believers. 

She helps others break free from fear through Scripture and has been featured on the “Don’t Mom Alone” and “Refreshed Moms” podcasts.

Dominique holds a psychology degree from Hampton University and is pursuing her MA in Theology at Fuller Seminary.

She is also a devoted wife and mother of four.

~*~
Book Blurb:

Here is a safe space for your deepest questions and your hidden pain.

If you’re silently suffering under the weight of depression, anxiety, shame, grief, and spiritual doubt, Dominique Young helps you discover the nearness of a God who does not shy away from your brokenness. In this safe space, you are invited to take off your mask, confront your hidden pain, and be seen by God for who you truly are―beloved.

Far from a quick fix or feel-good message, God, Where Are You? is a vulnerable, faith-filled journey that uses heartfelt storytelling and practical tools to help you wrestle with real emotions and deep questions―like how to deal with failure, how to find your true identity, and more.

Practical tools include:

Tracing God Devotionals: Explore Bible verses at the end of each chapter and learn how to recognize God’s character and presence even in hard places.

Reflection Questions: Through self-examination, you can heal deeply and receive clarity, healing, and personal revelation.

Prayers: Each chapter includes heartfelt prayers that bridge raw emotion and spiritual intimacy, modeling honest and hopeful dialogue with God.

God, Where Are You? is not just a book to be read―it’s a healing journey to be walked. With authenticity, compassion, and biblical grounding, Dominique is your traveling companion to uncover the life-giving truth: even in the silence, God is near.

~*~
Buy this book:

Amazon

Barnes and Noble

Books-A-Million

Christian Book

Walmart

Devotionals for the Heart: How to start the new year with God in mind

Starting the New Year with the God Who Created the Earth
A devotional by Terry Overton

“In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.”

—Genesis 1:1 (ESV)

This time of year, many people set new goals or make resolutions to change something in their lives. Common resolutions include learning new skills, saving or earning more money, improving self-care, losing weight, changing a relationship, deepening faith, providing service to others, and many more. We plan. We set our path for the coming weeks and months. We sense we are in control of the events in our lives.

There is probably nothing so profoundly powerful in the history of the world as the opening words of the first chapter of the first book of the Bible. Genesis 1:1 (ESV) reads, “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.”

Why is this such an important sentence?

This first sentence tells us of God’s infinite power. Nothing existed until He created everything in our world and in the heavens. As humans, we can name and break down the elements and chemicals of most things and organisms in our world and in most of the heavens. But we do not have the knowledge to create the world and everything in it from the bits and pieces we have identified. Humans have tried—and to some degree, succeeded—in laboratory settings to recreate, clone, or construct something. But a universe? No. The knowledge to do such things and the power He has are beyond our understanding.

There is no knowledge like God’s knowledge. It was only through His divine intention that our world was created. How He did this is beyond our understanding. And all God had to do to create the world and universe was to speak it.

But Genesis 1:1 is also important in our everyday lives. It tells us God knows all. He knows how to create, and He knows everything that has happened since creation and what will happen in the future. He knew us before we were born. God planned our life story for us, and He continues to guide us. God knows what will happen in our future. We can plan, set resolutions, and try our best to go through life according to our plans and path, but God knows what will take place.

The Bible says in Proverbs 16:9 (ESV), “The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.” The Bible also says in Proverbs 3:5-6 (ESV), “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”

We are in awe of God’s power and His infinite knowledge. But as we struggle with our daily lives, we often forget that we are called to trust God. Trust God’s knowledge to plan our path. Trust God’s power to help us in weakness. This new year, perhaps the most important resolution we should make—and keep—is to trust our future to Him because He knows all. He can make the impossible happen.

To have a better understanding of Him, one New Year’s Resolution should be to understand the attributes of God. God is powerful, infinite, and knows all. He is everywhere, is faithful, good, and just. I believe to learn more about God, to trust Him, and to draw nearer to Him, are the best ways to go through the New Year.

Let’s Pray:

Dear Heavenly Father,

You are the Maker of the universe. You number our days and make our paths straight in this life on Earth. You know what the future will bring and what we need. Help us to trust You with everything. Help me to pray more and worry less. My future is in Your hands alone. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “God of the Impossible” by Lincoln Brewster. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “The Maker” by Chris August. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “For the Beauty of the Earth” by Barlow Girl. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #4: “God of All My Days” by Casting Crowns. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Terry Overton is a retired university professor of educational and school psychology. She has an Ed.D. in Special Education and a Ph.D. in Psychology. 

Her professional experience includes teaching public school, teaching at the university level, and being a college dean.

She has two children, seven grandchildren, and one great granddaughter.

Her previous writing and publication experiences include textbook and journal articles in the fields of special education and school psychology. She now seeks to answer God’s call to share the good news and grow the church by writing Christian books and devotionals.

Over the years, Terry’s books have won the Mom’s Choice Award, Christian Indie Award, Firebird Book Awards, American Writing Winner Awards, Bookfest Winner Awards, Pencraft Award, Reader Views Silver Reviewers Award, and International Book Award Finalist. Her writing examines real world events with a Christian worldview. She enjoys writing for young children, middle grade readers, YA fiction, and adult level novels.

Terry’s background in teaching adults and children shine through her stories that often include a character with educational or learning challenges. Her Christmas series, The Oddball Ornaments, features a box of misfit ornaments who first learn the meaning of Christmas and then discover the meaning of forgiveness. In The Underground Book Readers series, one of the main characters is on the autism spectrum yet is one of the leaders of the group of teens. Book one of a new series, The Messiah Brigade, features an awkward middle school nerd who helps his school turn around a bully gang of kids. Adoption and family issues are the focus of her new book, Charlotte McMaster and the Messenger Angel.

Terry lives in Texas and enjoys reading, taking pictures for devotional posts on social media, visiting with her family, playing golf, and writing.

~*~
Connect with Terry:
Website: https://www.authorterryoverton.com
Blog: https://terryovertonbooks.com
LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/overtont

Review of CSB Women’s Study Bible

When Momentum Influencers Network (MIN) asked me to review the CSB Women’s Study Bible, I readily agreed because I love reading God’s Word (The Holy Bible) and sharing it with everyone! This version of the Bible is a bit unique because of the way it caters to women.

But before I share my review with you, I’d like to share a word from Momentum Influencers Network and a few notes from me about this product:

If you're looking for a new Bible to help you go deeper in your study of God’s Word, the brand-new CSB Women’s Study Bible is one you’re going to love!

Created by a team of women who love Scripture and want to help you engage with it meaningfully, this Bible is packed with verse-by-verse study notes, word studies, profiles of women in the Bible, devotional content, and tools to help you live out what you're learning.

Whether you're studying alone or with a group, this is a resource that will meet you right where you are—and help you grow.

This is the perfect Bible for your sister, friend, or female family member. Purchase this Bible for women of all ages so they can delight in digging deeper into Scripture.

~*~

My Review of the CSB Women’s Study Bible:

The first thing I noticed about this CSB Women’s Study Bible is that it has a lovely cover that is soft to touch and detail-oriented in its design. Pictured on the cover are thin golden vines with branches that yield fruit (grapes in this case) as well as healthy looking green leaves. In the center of this garden like picture is a horizontal gold colored diamond with the words “Women’s Study Bible” in the center.

When I opened this Bible, I noticed that the Table of Contents was neatly formatted and despite the small font size, it was easy to read.

There is an “Introduction and Welcome” section on the next page. Stefana Dan Laing, PhD, wrote this page. She is the General Editor of this Bible. Her words on this page welcome the reader in a warm but authoritative tone of voice. It is clear that Laing is an expert in her field and knows the Bible very well.

The next few pages are filled with infographics that educate the reader and prepare them for what to expect as they delve into their Bible study. I found the “Extended Features List” to be quite helpful. It outlines the title of articles, charts and tables, illustrations and other details that aide the reader in their study of this Bible. It also notes the page numbers where each item on this list can be found.

After that there is “The Story of the Bible” that spans for two pages. The next two pages are titled, “Reading the Bible through the Lens of Genre and Literary Structure”. It felt intense as I read it and was a bit over my head but still helpful.

The last few pages before the first book in The Old Testament, is titled “Introduction of the Christian Standard Bible” and it is a very comprehensive read.

Before each book of the Bible are a few pages with content that educates the reader about the author of that book as well as the context, message and purpose, placement in the Bible’s storyline and other informational details to give the reader background info and important notes to remember as they start studying each book.

Throughout this Bible, there are boxed sections titled “A Closer Look” with text inside the boxed outline that explain details from that chapter and help the reader better understand what they are reading.

After the last book of the Bible (Revelation) is a CSB Concordance that I found hard to read because of the very small font size of the words. It is, however, very comprehensive. You can tell that they covered everything.

The final pages of this Bible include: A three-year Bible reading plan, notes on how to read the Word of God in one year, art credits, the list of people who contributed to this Bible, a list of sources cited, and several pages of colorful maps featuring the geographical settings of the stories in the Bible.

Overall, I think that this is a wonderful Bible with details added that women can relate to and enjoy. The readers will definitely receive a Biblical world-class education as they read this Bible. I highly recommend this book to all women.

~*~

End Notes:

Order your copy today wherever books and Bibles are sold or to learn more, visit https://www.bhpublishinggroup.com/csb-womens-study-bible/.

Short list of purchase links for this Bible:

Christian Book: https://www.christianbook.com/csb-womens-study-bible-hardcover/9798384518310/pd/518313

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/csb-womens-study-bible-hardcover/dp/B0DJQ8RYB2?tag=lifeway-20

#CSBWomensStudyBibleMIN #CSBWomensStudyBible #MomentumInfluencerNetwork

Disclosure: Many thanks to Lifeway Christian Resources for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.

Devotionals for the Heart: What to do when your life feels out of control

Finding Peace in the New Year
A devotional by Anne Madison

“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”—Philippians 4:6-7 (NKJV)

As we step into a new year, 2026 stretches out before us like a blank page filled with possibility, but also uncertainty. We set goals, make resolutions, and map out plans. But beneath all our organizing lies a humbling truth: We are not in control. And that is where the rubber meets the road.

I learned about this deeply one winter evening while driving home from work. What began as a light snowfall quickly turned into a full-blown whiteout. The road, so familiar under normal conditions, was now hidden beneath inches of blowing and drifting snow. Visibility dropped to nearly nothing. Landmarks I relied on—road signs, mailboxes, houses, and intersections—all vanished in the flurry of the storm.

Fear surged through me. My hands were white-knuckled on the steering wheel as I crept forward, barely inching along. Each turn of the tires felt like a step of faith on ground I could not see. I had driven that road countless times, but now, the blizzard swallowed everything. I was disoriented. Alone. Scared. I whispered prayers to God, pleading not to slip into a ditch or crash into something hidden in the storm’s fury.

And then I saw it. A solitary light shining through the storm at the next intersection. It was not much, but it was enough. That small glow pierced the darkness just enough to reveal the bend in the road ahead. Relief washed over me as I cleared the curve, and I slowly continued the final stretch toward home. Soon, I saw the soft glow of my porch lights—warm, familiar, and full of welcome. I whispered, “Thank You, Lord,” as I pulled in the driveway. I made it. Whew!

Life is often like that whiteout. We hit seasons when nothing looks familiar anymore. The path we once relied on seems hidden. The answers we used to have do not seem to work. Fear takes our faith hostage. Like snowflakes caught in a swirling wind, we feel tossed, beaten, and out of control. Swallowed up by the storm.

Philippians 4:6-7 reminds us of what to do when anxiety creeps in and fear takes hold: Pray with thanksgiving. Paul does not deny that we will face anxious moments. Instead, he gives us the antidote: bring everything—our fears, plans, questions, and confusion—to God in prayer. And not just prayer out of panic, but prayer wrapped in gratitude. Because gratitude changes our attitude. When we thank God in the midst of uncertainty, we acknowledge that He is already at work, even if we cannot yet see the outcome. Prayer with thanksgiving activates our faith.

And then comes the promise: “The peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” God does not promise instant solutions. He promises peace. Not a surface-level calm, but a deep, unshakable peace—one that does not always make sense to the world. It is peace that shows up when the storm rages. Peace that steadies your heart when fear tries to hijack your life. Peace that protects your mind from spinning into panic. In other words, my friends: When the blizzard hits, pray. When fear swells, pray. When you cannot see your way forward slow your roll and pray.

Call to Action:

As you step into this year, let this be your sole resolution: Be anxious for nothing.

You do not need to control the year ahead. You need to trust the One who already holds it. He is not panicked by the storms. He is not blinded by the blizzards. He sees the road clearly when you cannot. His promises are sure, His presence steady, and His peace available in the midst of your storm.

Let 2026 be the year you trade anxiety for intimacy with God. When fear rises, respond with prayer. When worry presses in, respond with worship. And when the way forward disappears, trust that God will shine just enough light for the next bend in the road.

Let’s Pray:

Lord, I do not know what this year holds, but I know You hold me. When fear grips my heart, help me remember to turn to You in prayer. Teach me to bring every worry, every plan, and every unknown to You with thanksgiving. May Your peace fill my heart and guard my thoughts. Thank You for being faithful in every season. In Jesus’s name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “Eye of the Storm” by Ryan Stevenson (feat. GabeReal). Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “God Will Take Care of You” by Rosemary Siemens. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “How Firm a Foundation” by Reawaken Hymns. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #4: “Hold Me Still” by ForeverJones. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Email: lessonsinthejourney@gmail.com  

Devotionals for the Heart: Why we should surrender this year to God

Surrendering Our Year to God
A devotional by Erica J. Hill

“Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.”

—Proverbs 16:3 (NIV)

Let’s start this year with submission to God rather than resolutions we cannot keep.

Each year, as the countdown begins and the ball slowly descends, people everywhere start to make New Year’s resolutions of the things they want to accomplish in the new year or the things they plan to leave behind in the last year. I am sure many of you did that too—whether you were at a party, sitting at home watching the new year celebrations on TV, or even at a church watch night service—thoughts came to mind about something you wanted to change.

Ephesians 5:15-17 (NIV) tells us to “Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore, do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.” Before we make our plans, we must be faithful stewards of our time and consult God.

While I am not much for making resolutions, I am a planner. Each year I sit down with a new planner that I spend hours researching to find the perfect one for my family’s lifestyle. I record appointments, trips, financial goals, and school dates. I worked hard on those plans, but I did not always cover them in prayer.

The past few years, I have begun to pray over that planner and pray daily before I even look at what the day holds. What if we prayed over the doctor’s appointments as we scheduled them? What if we prayed for our children’s school as we recorded their activities? What if we prayed over our finances as we recorded the bills to be paid?

Let’s thank God that we are still alive and that we made it through what we can honestly call a year of unexpected difficulties in an already unprecedented time. We made it through to another year, but many did not, and that alone should be enough to thank God, live righteous lives, and leave our ungodly ways behind.

Let’s give God our heart, mind and soul before we begin setting resolutions of all the things we are resolving to do or stop doing this year. Without God at the center of our lives, nothing can be accomplished to true satisfaction. So, before we plan, let us begin with prayer.

Before we attend vision board parties, book clubs, or engage in planning trips, let’s practice surrendering to the will of God over our plans. Ask God what He desires for our lives this year. Where does He want to see more of us? If we sit quietly with our thoughts, we can often identify where God has been nudging us toward improvement. Maybe He wants us to attend church more faithfully, dive deeper into Scripture, serve more in our church or community, and remove unforgiveness from our hearts.

Lean into these things this year by submitting to God’s will and allowing Him to set our path. Psalm 37:23 (NIV) tells us, “The Lord makes firm the steps of the one who delights in Him.” Let’s spend this year delighting in the Lord, allowing Him to decrease us so that He may increase in our lives. When we do this, we may discover that the things we have spent years trying to let go or finally complete are accomplished this year simply because we decided to surrender to God.

Instead of trying to do everything in our own strength, this year let’s choose to partner with God. Before we plan anything this year, let’s sit at the feet of Jesus Christ and pour out our hearts to Him. Let’s wait for Him to answer our prayers before spending hours struggling to produce a yearly plan. God already knows the blueprint, and He alone should direct our paths.

Let's Pray:

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for the gift of another year. Thank You for Your mercy that kept us and Your grace that carried us through every unexpected moment. As we stand at the beginning of this new season, we surrender our plans, goals, and desires to You. Teach us to seek You before success and trust You above our own understanding. Order our steps, guard our hearts, and align our will with Yours. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

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

Song of Reflection #2: “Order My Steps” by GMWA Women of Worship. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “Yes” by Shekinah Glory Ministry. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Erica J. Hill is a wife, mother, and proud grandmother living in Georgia. 

With a career spanning both elementary education and higher education, she has served as an elementary and middle grade English Language Arts (ELA) teacher and now works as an administrative assistant in higher education. Currently pursuing her master’s degree in Instructional Technology and Media Center Specialist, Erica’s love for learning and teaching runs deep.

Raised in the Southern Baptist tradition, she has faithfully served as a Sunday School teacher and now as one of the youth directors at her church. A lifelong writer at heart, Erica once set her passion aside to pursue other career goals—but recently felt God’s undeniable tug to pick up her pen again, this time to write for His Kingdom.

She is currently working on her first book, Worthy. Whole. Woman. It is a devotional that she hopes will be an encouraging resource created to uplift and empower women—especially women of color—to walk confidently in their God-given identity.

Through her words, Erica blends faith in God, personal reflection, and practical wisdom to inspire women to heal, grow, and embrace the fullness of who God created them to be.

Originally from Atlanta, Erica now calls Macon County home, where she lives with her husband and children. In her free time, you’ll usually find Erica curled up with a good book, working on DIY projects, or planning her next travel adventure.

~*~
Connect with Erica:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/leahsgrace2931/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leahsgrace2931/

Devotionals for the Heart: Why we should surrender to God every day

Surrendering to the Source
A devotional by Jessica Brodie

“Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.”—1 Peter 5:6 (NIV)

Have you ever done something you’re really not good at? Have you done it intentionally, even though you’re not naturally gifted or even simply okay at it, knowing it was somehow good for you? Still enjoyable? Still worth the exercise?

The other night, my kids and I were painting at our kitchen table. I always laugh when I get artistic because I have long claimed that I write because I have no talent as a painter. I use words to paint my pictures.

Still, I like to paint. Although I’m not terribly good at it, it’s fun. I love to play with color and see images come to life beneath my fingers. We started painting during the COVID-19 pandemic because we needed something to do as a family besides watch TV and go for walks. And while we don’t do it often, especially now that my son is off to college, when he’s home on breaks we usually try to dabble a bit.

My poor kids, though . . . I didn’t mean to, but as a recovering perfectionist, I’ve somehow raised two perfectionists—particularly my oldest, who plays first-chair viola in his college orchestra, majors in finance, and has always been tremendously hard on himself. He kept berating himself as we painted for not being able to get his lines straight or be as precise as he wanted.

“Stop beating yourself up!” we all told him. “It looks really good.” And it did! He just laughed. “I’m a perfectionist. I can’t help myself! It’s killing me not to do this right.”

I looked at him over our canvases. “But remember—whenever you do things out of your comfort zone, you’re stretching your brain. You’re using different muscles. You’re making yourself better in some way. I always say that every time I pick up a paintbrush I become a better writer.”

My own words have stayed with me since then. It’s true, isn’t it? And it’s not just because we’re stretching different sides of our brain. Whenever we do something out of our comfort zone, it’s scary, but it always makes us better.

I see a huge spiritual lesson in this. Think about all the times you’ve had to relinquish control and depend on God. Remember how it ultimately made you better, deeper, stronger in the Lord? Really ponder this—for me, it’s been every single time.

Consider in Scripture how Peter jumped out of the boat and walked on water toward Jesus Christ (Matthew 14:22-33). He certainly didn’t do this in his own strength, but because of faith—he was entirely dependent on his trust in Jesus, and that faith gave him the ability to do supernatural things.

Later, his faith enabled him to heal in the Lord’s name and to do other miracles. Jesus taught in John 15:1-17 how he is the vine and we are the branches. Apart from Him, we can do nothing, yet in Him, because of our connection to Him, we can thrive and grow in ways unimaginable. It’s not that we ourselves are better. But in surrendering and letting him take over, we’re surrendering to the full power of the Holy Spirit within us. That’s when the true work happens. That’s when we become what we can never become on our own.

I have no illusions I’ll ever be a painting prodigy. But I do know that practicing the art of surrender is good for my brain and good for my soul. The most beautiful things I’ve ever written have come from a source deep inside of me that is connected to the One—God Almighty, the Alpha and the Omega. I have no illusions it comes from me or any talent I possess. It is a combination of my hard work and my willingness to surrender to the Creator who somehow miraculously lives within me.

This year, instead of worrying about becoming the best version of you possible, maybe consider how you can surrender to the One who handcrafted the very universe around us all. That is the true measure of greatness.

And the true evidence of His love.

Let’s Pray: Lord, my ego sometimes tells me the good things I do come from me—my talent, my work, my giftedness. But apart from You, I am nothing. On my own, I am lost. Help me remember that I become worthy only in my connection to You and help me learn to surrender to You daily. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “What Faith Can Do” by Kutless. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “I Surrender All” by CeCe Winans. Listen to it here.

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

~*~
Author Bio:

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

She is also the editor of the South Carolina United Methodist Advocate, the oldest newspaper in Methodism. Her two Christian contemporary novels, The Memory Garden and Tangled Roots, are Amazon bestsellers.

Learn more about Jessica’s writing ministry and read her faith blog at http://jessicabrodie.com. She has a YouTube devotional, and you can also connect with her on Facebook and Instagram.

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

Devotionals for the Heart: Why we should keep faith in Jesus Christ

Keep the Faith
A devotional by Patricia Russell

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”

— 2 Timothy 4:7 (NIV)

Funerals for many people are morbid and sad, but I have found them to be very sobering and educational. For me, they serve as a constant reminder that I must steward every day I’m alive with wisdom.

We are reminded in Scripture to ask for wisdom so that we can use the time we are given wisely (Psalm 90:12). At most funerals, there is music and tributes. The dead person in the coffin is not able to confirm or deny all being said, but you can tell by the smiles and the nods of those who knew the person whether the speaker is telling the truth or not. 

Recently, I sang at a funeral, and the testimony of those who spoke before me was that “He loved the Lord.” This is like music to the ears of people who follow Jesus Christ because his life testified to his love for God. When he was alive, the evidence of his love for God showed in his behavior. He consistently treated people in the church and in his community with agape love and respect. He lived out his beliefs. He did what the Apostle Paul stated he had done, which was, "I have kept the faith."

The Bible books of 1 Timothy and 2 Timothy focus on a letter the Apostle Paul wrote to Timothy who was a young pastor at that time. Paul was encouraging him Timothy, knowing that his days on earth were coming to an end. It was important for Timothy to keep some important things in mind as he moved forward in his role as a pastor. Paul, from the first day of his conversion (Acts 9), had learned to look fully to God for his every need. From day one of becoming a Christian, Paul understood the power of God and the call on his life. He was entrusted with a task to preach the gospel. Likewise, he reminds Timothy that he, too, must do the same.

To keep the faith means you have be prepared to be persecuted. Paul said in 2 Timothy 3:12, “Everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.” Therefore, we have to prepare ourselves. The scriptures are loaded with guidance and direction for us to read, meditate on and believe what God says. It will direct us as we move through life (Psalm 119:105).

Our ultimate goal is to hear our Savior (Jesus Christ) say, “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:21) when we stand before Him. So, like Paul, as we start out this year, let’s keep this in the forefront of our hearts and minds.

We can set our goals, but our ultimate goal is to keep the faith that we have in Jesus Christ. Let’s live in a way that the world can see the character of Christ in our lives through our speech and behavior. Challenges in many forms will come but be determined to keep the faith! Hide the Word in your heart. As you obey God, prepare to be persecuted but remember that the one who began a good work in you is faithful to complete it (Philippians 1:6).

God’s word is certain and sure; He will keep us. Let’s set our hearts and minds to stay focused and come what may, keep the faith.

Let’s Pray:

Heavenly Father, 

I am so thankful for the assurance that you’ve got me in the palm of your hands. Nothing happens without You knowing about it. We are grateful for You. Strengthen my heart and help me to remember your word when I forget and am tempted to become discouraged. I want to be able to say like Paul, “I have kept the faith.” 

In Jesus’s name I pray, Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “Keep the Faith” by Charles Jenkins and Fellowship Chicago. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “I Will Follow Christ” by Bob Carlisle, Clay Crosse and BeBe Winans. Listen to it here.

~*~
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