Devotionals for the Heart: Jesus Christ is always present in our life journey

The Good and Faithful Shepherd
A devotional by Jennifer Reese

“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”

—Psalm 23:1-6 (ESV)

How often have you found yourself in seasons and circumstances of concern, uncertainty, frustration, or confusion?

If your life’s journey has been anything like mine, I would guess you have also found yourself in such seasons and circumstances far more often than you would like. I can honestly say that as much as I want to know all the details of my life and how things will play out, I equally do not truly want to know because much of the excitement and potential to grow and take risks would be lost.

When looking at Psalm 23, one thing that stands out to me about God’s character is His being present. We see that Jesus Christ is the Shepherd who remains close by and who leads us, His sheep, along the way. Jesus is the Shepherd who always looks after us and provides for our every need. He is the Shepherd who walks with us through the valley of the shadow of death. Jesus can calm our fears. No other person and no other shepherd could ever begin to compare to Him.

A further question arises as we focus on these truths about God’s omnipotence: “Why is it so challenging to believe in the depth of our soul that He is truly the good and faithful shepherd?”

It is so easy for us to know with our minds that the Lord is good, faithful, and always present with us, seeking to always provide the best care for us. However, when we pause and truly reflect on our actions and our lives, the opposite is what is often being communicated and believed.

We sit in seasons of unknowns and battle anxieties about how everything will turn out. In other seasons, we sit in distress and anger because we see the evil one “winning”. We regularly question the purpose of certain circumstances because we cannot grasp their benefit to our lives or how they will work out for our good and God’s glory. Our functional theology can easily show where our souls are still walking in disbelief or uncertainty about our good and perfect Shepherd.

So then, how do we begin to connect the knowledge in our heads to the depths of our heart and soul? The simple answer is the only answer: by God’s grace and help alone. We need our good and faithful Shepherd to constantly remind us of how near He is in all times, of His desire to provide for our every need, and of His goodness and faithfulness to take care of us through every single season and circumstance we walk through.

As we walk day by day, what would it look like to pause and reflect on each of these verses in Psalm 23? Maybe it is taking a couple weeks to read only this Psalm and meditate on it verse by verse, identifying how you have seen the Lord show up in your life and/or current circumstances? Maybe it is taking the next month to use Psalm 23 as a prayer outline to offer up both thanksgiving and your circumstances to the Lord, trusting He is with you and cares about your heart’s concerns? Lastly, maybe it is sitting with the Lord and asking Him to soften your heart to fully believe that He is truly your good and faithful Shepherd and that you lack nothing.

I’m not sure where you find yourself today regarding this truth that the Lord is our Good and Faithful Shepherd and He is present with us always. I pray that you will consider it, reflect on it, and allow it to lead you to our Father.

Let’s Pray: Heavenly Father, thank You for being the One true good and faithful Shepherd, always present with me and always leading me. Thank You for the truth that you are the One I truly need—not answers and not changed circumstances. Please help me rest in your presence and to truly come to believe in the depths of my heart that You are good and your intentions for me are better than I can imagine. Please help me rest my soul in You alone and trust your guidance in all things. May my heart trust Your good and perfect wisdom and care so that I may truly walk in peace and hope every day. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

~*~
Song of Reflection #1: “Shepherd” by City Alight. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “Psalm 23” by Kathy Troccoli. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “God is Here” by Karen Clark Sheard. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #4: “God Is” (1979) by Rev. James Cleveland and the Southern California Community Choir. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Jennifer Reese obtained a Bachelor of Social Work, a Master of Ministry in Intercultural Studies, and certifications in Biblical Counseling. 

Her educational training has afforded Jennifer the opportunity to work with various populations—such as foster care and adoption, refugee women, homeless, under-resourced youth, international students, and local churches. It has been through these experiences that she has seen a need for women of all ages to understand their true identity as a child of God so they can experience the promised abundant life and freedom.

By working as a Biblical Counselor and Coach, Jennifer focuses on helping women and teen girls discover who God is and to know their true identity in Jesus Christ. Through her professional work and ministry, she helps people learn how to carry out their specific purpose and calling in building God’s Kingdom that is not of this world.

On a personal note, Jennifer and her husband recently welcomed their baby boy into the world and couldn’t be happier from enjoying all the newborn snuggles and learning his little personality! She is grateful for this precious gift from the Lord and is excited to begin learning how to faithfully walk in the ministry of motherhood. Jennifer also looks forward to seeing how this gift and new season will further enhance ministry opportunities with women as she continues to minister to them.

~*~
Connect with Jennifer:
Website: www.rootedandfixed.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/rootedandfixed
Email address: rootedandfixed@gmail.com

Devotionals for the Heart: Believing in God isn't the same as knowing Him

Believing Isn’t the Same as Knowing Him
A devotional by Heidi Lewis-Ivey

“But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.”

—Hebrews 11:6 (NKJV)

A pastor friend of mine asked me to teach a Christian Foundations course for a group of aspiring ministers she's raising up. This week's lesson was “Faith Toward God.” I've taught on faith more times than I can count, but I didn’t expect it to hit me the way it did. But somewhere in the middle of preparing, I got stuck on one question: How does faith in a God I can't see turn into knowing Him?

Because those are two different things. I think a lot of us live in the first one without realizing it. Let’s break this down.

Believing He's There:

Most of us start here, whether we remember starting or not. Somewhere along the way we came to believe God exists. We believe there is a Creator, a Judge, a Someone behind all of this. Hebrews 11:1 (NKJV) puts words to that starting point: “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.”

That's a real and necessary step. But as I sat with the next verse this week, I realized I read past something important my whole life that is found in Hebrews 11:6 (NJKV). It says, “But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.”

It's not just “believe He exists”. It's “believe He rewards those who seek Him”. That second half is the part I think I'd been skipping. Believing God is there is one thing. Believing He responds when you look for Him is another thing entirely, and it's the part that turns faith from an idea into a pursuit.

I Can Believe the Right Things and Still Not Know Him:

This is the verse that stopped me while I was preparing for the lesson. James 2:19 (NKJV) reads, “You believe that there is one God. You do well. Even the demons believe—and tremble!”

I read that and thought, “Well, that's humbling. Demons have better theology than half of us. They know exactly who God is. And it does absolutely nothing for them, because knowing facts about someone isn't the same as knowing them.”

I think I've done that with God more than I'd like to admit. I believed the right things. Said the right things. And still kept Him at arm's length, more like a concept I agreed with than a Person I walked with.

He's Not an Idea, He's Alive:

What changed something in me this week was sitting with this phrase: the living and true God. Paul uses it describing people who'd turned away from idols. He said in 1 Thessalonians 1:9 (NKJV), “For they themselves declare concerning us what manner of entry we had to you, and how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God.”

Idols don't do anything. They don't answer, they don't respond, they don't know you're there. And if I'm honest, I can treat God like an idol without ever bowing to a statue just by keeping Him as a distant idea instead of a living presence. Jeremiah 10:10 (NKJV) says it plainly: “But the Lord is the true God; He is the living God and the everlasting King.”

Living. Present. Here. That's a very different thing to have faith towards than a concept in a book.

So How Do You Actually Get There?

I don't think this shift happens automatically just because time passes. A few things stood out to me as I thought through it—not as steps to check off, but more like doors that were already open, waiting. One is simply hearing from Him. Paul says faith comes by hearing the word of God (Romans 10:17). I can't know someone whose voice I never listen to, and I think that's true of God too. The more time I spend in His Word and in prayer, the less abstract He becomes.

Another is that seeking Him isn't a shot in the dark. God promises this in Jeremiah 29:13 (NKJV), “And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart.” That's not a maybe. That's a promise from a God who wants to be found. It is a reminder that we can't do anything to earn His love. His heart toward us was set long before we ever sought Him.

And then there's what Jesus says eternal life is. Not “believing the correct doctrine.” Knowing Him like He says in John 17:3 (NKJV) that reads, “And this is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent.” The Apostle Paul wanted that so badly he called it the goal of his whole life. He said this in Philippians 3:10 (KJV): “That I may know Him.”

Not know about Him. Know Him. In other words, not a mere intellectual belief, but an experiential, intimate relationship with Him. That’s what I want. I want to know Him and live so close to Him, that when He whispers, I hear it.

Coming Closer, Not Just Believing Harder

Here's what I keep coming back to since teaching this: because of Jesus Christ, we're not left to approach an unseen God from a distance, hoping He notices us. Scripture says we get to come close. According to Hebrews 4:16 (NKJV), “Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.”

Boldly. Not timidly, not from far off, not just believing Him from across the room. We're invited in. That's the shift I was trying to put words to in class this week: Faith toward God was never supposed to be the finish line. It's the doorway. On the other side of it is an actual Person, alive and present, who wants to be known.

The Bible says in John 1:12 (NKJV), “As many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name.”

The Holy Spirit spoke to me years ago. He said, “Faith is progressive and it is historical.” This means we grow in faith as we continue to approach Him through His Word (The Holy Bible), and in prayer. Faith is historical because there is this record of God’s love and faithfulness toward us that says, “If He did there (wherever there is), surely He can do it here.”

Believing got me to the door. Knowing Him intimately is what's on the other side of it and honestly, I'm still walking through.

Let’s Pray:

Lord,

Thank You that You are not a distant idea, but the living and true God who is near, present, and real. We confess that it's possible to believe the right things about You and still keep You at arm's length. Forgive us for the times we've settled for facts about You instead of relationship with You.

Stir in us a hunger to seek You with all our heart, trusting Your promise that those who seek You will find You. Let our faith not stop at believing You exist but carry us into knowing the way the Apostle Paul desired in Philippians 3:10, “That I may know Him.”

Thank You that through Jesus we don't have to approach You from a distance. We can come boldly, not because we've earned it, but because You've already made the way. Draw us closer today. Let what we know about You become what we know of You.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen.

~*~
Song of Reflection #1: “I Believe God” by Kurt Carr (feat. Timiney Figueroa-Caton). Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “God's Favor” by Donald Lawrence featuring Karen Clark-Sheard, Kim Burrell, and Kelly Price. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “You Are God Alone” by Marvin Sapp. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #4: “Goodness of God” by CeCe Winans. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #5: “Just to Know You” by Mark Schultz. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #6: “Knowing You, Jesus” by Graham Kendrick. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #7: “Oh, I Want to Know You More” by Steve Green. 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: If you are lost, Jesus Christ is looking for you

Seeking the Lost
A devotional by Colette Christopher

“If a man has a hundred sheep and one of them wanders away, what will he do? Won’t he leave the ninety-nine others on the hills and go out to search for the one that is lost? And if he finds it, I tell you the truth, he will rejoice over it more than over the ninety-nine that didn’t wander away! In the same way, it is not my heavenly Father’s will that even one of these little ones should perish.”—Matthew 18:12-14 (NLT)

A few weeks ago, as I was on a flight returning from my mission trip, I heard in my spirit that the mission was not finished.

I knew the Holy Spirit was speaking to me. I said, “Lord, what now?” I heard the Holy Spirit say, “Tell the person on the right and the one on your left: Jesus loves you, and for you He died.” Fear gripped me. I thought of the length of time for this flight and of me sitting between the two people who God wanted me to witness to. I whispered, “Father, I am scared.”

A few days earlier when I was in conversation with the host Pastor, something he said has been resonating with me ever since. He said we must keep going for the one. The one soul that needs Jesus, His grace and mercy. When we feel like giving up in our ministry or the areas God has called us to serve, we seldom think of the one person who needs to hear the message God has given to us for that person.

As I struggled to get the message out, I quietly started praying and asking the Holy Spirit to help and show me what to do. A thought came to my mind: Write the message in the memo section of your phone and share the message. I wrote the message: “Jesus loves you, and for you He died.” Below those words I also wrote, “The Lord wants me to share this message with you, but I am scared, and this is the least scary option.” I finally shared the message.

And today, I want to share the same message with you! Jesus loves you. If you are a believer who went astray and became lost, He left the 99 saved sheep who were safe in His care, to search for you. Jesus wants us to have the same love and compassion for each other as He has for us. It is the same agape love that we would have to step out of our comfort zone to tell one person, “Jesus loves you and for you, He died.”

Recently, two of my dearest friends lost loved ones. One parent said to me, “My prayer is that in that moment he asked the Lord back into His life. We don’t know His final resting place, but one thing we are assured of: God loved him and gave His life for Him.” Now consider this in your own life: Someone who is important to you—a child, parent, sibling, friend, colleague, spouse, neighbor—whoever that person is, is the Lord is placing them on your heart to reconcile with them or invite them into a relationship with Jesus Christ? Ask the Holy Spirit to speak to you then help you do what He says.

In the passage above, we know the shepherd originally had 100 sheep, but one wandered away. The shepherd didn’t say the one was important, and he had 99 remaining, so it made no sense to go after the one. Yet, Jesus Christ as our Good Shepherd (John 10:11-18) seeks after the one who is lost—whether the one is a backslider who needs to return to his Heavenly Father or the one who needs to make the Lord His Savior. If we are to be like Jesus, then that is our role: to love as He does, to see others as He does, and to invite them into a relationship with Him.

Let’s return to my first story about how God’s Holy Spirit prompted me to share His message of salvation with the people who I was seated in between on the airplane. As I shared the message with the gentleman on my left, he read it, said thank you and patted my hand. I relaxed in my seat and under my breath, I said “Thank you, Lord.” While it took me longer to share with the young lady on my right, I did. She read the message, looked me in the eye and said thank you. As the pilot prepared us for descent, I wondered if I shared the message in the way the Lord wanted me to, and immediately, I heard one word in my spirit: Obedience. That’s what matters—not the method, but the doing—as we follow prompts from God’s Holy Spirit and share the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Today, you may be in a space where you don’t know the Lord as Savior. Jesus loves you, and for you He died. You might have wandered away from Him. But He still loves you, and for you He died. You may have someone on your heart whom the Holy Spirit is nudging you to speak to. If you can’t speak it, write it or do whatever you need to do. Ask the Holy Spirit to help you because He will.

In closing, remember this Bible verse found in John 3:16 (NLT). It says, “For this is how God loved the world: He gave His one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.”

Let’s Pray: Heavenly Father, help us to remember that You love each of us with an everlasting love. Remind us that You gave your only Son (Jesus Christ) to pay the price for our sins on the Cross, so that we can have everlasting life and be reconciled to You. Give us strength to endure so that we can fulfill your plans and purpose for our lives. May your peace and presence flood our hearts and cause us to know that You love us, and You died for us. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

~*~
Song of Reflection #1: “The Lost Sheep | Jesus Finds Me Again” by True Faith Studio. Listen to it here.

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

Song of Reflection #3: “Mercy Tree” by Lacey Sturm. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #4: “It’s Always Been You” by Phil Wickham. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #5: “Seeking the Lost” by KUSDA Church Choir. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #6: “I Am Not Ashamed” by Heritage Singers. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #7: “Each One, Reach One” by Babbie Mason. 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

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

Ask, Seek, Knock
A devotional by Erica Bryant

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

There are times when we feel completely depleted.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Let’s Pray:

Dear Father,

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

In Jesus’ name,

Amen.

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

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

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

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

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

~*~
Author Bio:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Extra in Ordinary
A devotional by Anne Madison

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

—1 Corinthians 16:14 (NKJV)

The day began just like any other ordinary day.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

~*~
Author Bio:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

~*~
Author Bio:

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

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

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

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

Devotionals for the Heart: There are blessings that we often overlook

The Blessings We Often Overlook
A devotional by Erica J. Hill

“Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him.”

—Psalm 127:3 (NIV)

As summertime arrives and our children are home from school, our houses often become fuller, louder, and busier.

Between the extra meals, errands, activities, and endless requests, it is easy to become overwhelmed and exhausted. Yet, we must not forget that the Bible says in Psalm 127:3, “Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him.” Instead of focusing on the busyness of the summer months, let’s choose to notice the small moments and be grateful for our children who are the precious blessings God has entrusted to us.

Most parents would say they love their children, but gratitude is something deeper. Yes, they get on my nerves sometimes, and they worry me more often than they know. Yet I am grateful for them because they remind me daily that they are God’s gifts to me—His heritage and reward entrusted to my care.

I often find myself wondering how my children became the people they are. Most parents might be quick to claim credit for the good qualities and blame someone else for the difficult ones. Yet I have learned that the qualities we sometimes struggle with our children having are not always weaknesses. Sometimes the traits that test our patience today become the strengths they will need tomorrow. When I look at my children—their character, their choices, and the direction their lives are taking—I am reminded that God has been faithfully guiding them all along. In those moments, I thank God for all the people who have prayed for them, even before they were born.

One of the greatest gifts of parenthood is what my children continue to teach me. As parents, we often assume we are the ones doing the teaching, but many times our children become our greatest lessons. Through their dreams, determination, and resilience, they remind me that God is still at work shaping each of us.

Education has always been important in our home, so it brings me great joy to watch my youngest son share that same passion for learning. Since elementary school, he has dreamed of becoming a doctor and has worked hard to excel in school. His confidence and determination remind me that God often places dreams in our hearts long before we understand where they will lead.

My middle child amazes me with his creativity and determination. While many teenagers spend their free time focused on the present, he enjoys talking about business ideas and future opportunities. As I listen to him dream beyond where he is today, I am reminded that God often plants dreams in our hearts for a reason. Watching him pursue those dreams reminds me that God is faithfully at work in his life.

My daughter has made thoughtful decisions about her future. She chose to finish her education, invest in her marriage, and then start a family. Today, she and her husband are praying for God to bless them with a home, but they are also faithfully doing their part by budgeting carefully and saving for the future. Watching her trust God’s timing while walking in wisdom reminds me that God’s guidance is often revealed through the ordinary decisions our children make each day.

I often complain about driving my sons from place to place, but if I am honest, I enjoy those moments in the car. Sometimes that is when I hear what is really going on in their lives. What feels like an inconvenience today may someday become a memory I wish I could relive.

The older my children get, the more I realize how easy it is to take these moments for granted. We are often quick to thank God for our health, finances, and careers, yet overlook the people who mean the most to us. Too often, we focus on what family members do that frustrate us instead of appreciating the blessing of having them in our lives. Gratitude shifts our perspective and reminds us that the ordinary moments we often overlook are gifts from God.

When we walk through the door after a long day and the music is too loud, we can be grateful that our children are where we can see them. When they constantly ask for things, we can be thankful that we are able to provide for their needs and that they do not live with a constant sense of lack.

We must learn to be grateful for the little things as much as the big things. Gratitude is found in everyday moments—the laughter around the dinner table, the unexpected phone call, the safe arrival home, the dreams our children share, and the smiles on the faces of the people we love. These moments may seem ordinary, but they are often the very blessings we once prayed for.

As you move through the busyness of this summer season, pause and thank God for the people He has entrusted to you. They may not always feel like a reward in the moment, but they are among His greatest blessings.

Let’s Pray:

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for the gift of family and for the blessings You have placed in our lives. Help us to look beyond the busyness and frustrations of daily life and recognize the joy found in the ordinary moments. Give us grateful hearts and remind us to cherish the people You have entrusted to our care.

In Jesus’ name, I pray.

Amen.

~*~
Song of Reflection #1: “The Blessing” (Lyrics) ft. Kari Jobe Carnes, Cody Carnes and Elevation Worship. Listen to it here.

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

Song of Reflection #3: “Gratitude” (Chosen Performance) by Brandon Lake. 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: The bond between our Shepherd (Jesus) and us

The Lord is My Shepherd
A devotional by Anne Madison

“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.”

—Psalm 23:1-6 (KJV)

As a shepherd, King David—the author of Psalm 23—understood the bond between a shepherd and his sheep.

He knew firsthand the devotion and sacrifice required to care for the flock. David understood his role as a guide, protector, provider, comforter, and healer. He also recognized the sheep’s tendency to wander, their fears and weaknesses, and their complete dependence on their shepherd. In light of this, it is natural to wonder how this shepherd-king came to see his relationship with the sheep as a reflection of his relationship with the Lord. A look at Psalm 22 may provide insight.

In stark contrast to the opening statement of Psalm 23, “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want,” in Psalm 22, David penned this in Psalm 22:1-2 (NIV), “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from saving me, so far from my cries of anguish? My God, I cry out by day, but you do not answer, by night, but I find no rest.” David goes on to say in Psalm 22:13-15 (NIV), “Roaring lions that tear their prey open their mouths wide against me. I am poured out like water, and all my bones are out of joint. My heart has turned to wax; it has melted within me. My mouth is dried up like a potsherd, and my tongue sticks to the roof of my mouth; you lay me in the dust of death.”

Yet David held on to shreds of a Biblical truth in his despair. He said in Psalm 22:3-5 (NIV), “Yet you are enthroned as the Holy One; you are the one Israel praises. In you our ancestors put their trust; they trusted and you delivered them. To you they cried out and were saved; in you they trusted and were not put to shame.”

David seemed to come to a refined understanding, a peace in his relationship with the Lord, between the writing of Psalm 22 and in Psalm 23:1 (NIV) where he says, “The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.” Maybe, as he cared for the sheep, God spoke to his shepherd’s heart and connected the dots. Maybe as in Jeremiah’s visit to the potter's house, David had an epiphany and heard God speak (Jeremiah 18:1-6). Whatever the case, in Psalm 23, David gets it and records it in a way that makes sense and brings comfort to all the people of God. The Lord is a good shepherd.

In his book, A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23, W. Phillip Keller (who is a modern day shepherd) wrote, “So when the simple—though sublime—statement is made by a man or a woman that “the Lord is my shepherd,” it immediately implies a profound yet practical working relationship between a human being and his Maker. It links a lump of common clay to divine destiny—it means a mere mortal becomes the cherished object of divine diligence. This thought alone should stir my spirit, quicken my own sense of awareness, and lend enormous dignity to myself as an individual. To think that God in Christ is deeply concerned about me as a particular person immediately gives great purpose and lend enormous meaning to my short sojourn upon this planet. And the greater, the wider, the more majestic my concept is of the Christ—the more vital will be my relationship to Him. Obviously, David, in this Psalm, is speaking not as the shepherd, though he was one, but as a sheep, one of the flock. He spoke with a strong sense of pride and devotion and admiration. It was as though he literally boasted aloud, “Look at who my shepherd is—my owner—my manager!” The Lord is!”

We, like sheep, need guidance. We are vulnerable when we roam without direction. “All of us like sheep have gone astray; we have turned, every one, to his own way; and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all” (Isaiah 53:6 NKJV). We are fully, wholly, and completely dependent on the loving kindness and care of our Good Shepherd.

The Lord is my Shepherd. I am a sheep of his flock. He provides so that I shall not want. He protects. His rod and staff calm all fear, for I am safe in his refuge. He supplies water for my thirsty soul, leading me beside still waters. He knows me, calls me by name, and declares, “I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me” (John 10:14 NIV). His promise to be with me in the dark valley comforts my weary heart. He restores my soul. His goodness and mercy follow and watch over me all the days of my life. His promise is secure: I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

Let’s Pray:

Gentle Shepherd,

Your loving kindness is better than life. Daily, You provide all that I need: food, water, rest, safety. You watch over and protect me from the fowler’s snare and enemies who seek to do me harm. Good Shepherd, lead me in all wisdom and truth. Guide me on this path of life, both here and in eternity. How great it is that You know me and call me by name. Tune my heart to hear and follow your voice, silencing the noise of all others. Stay ever present in my life. Restore my soul when life’s sorrows break my tender heart. Renew a right spirit within me as I walk beside the still waters with You. In, with, and present with You is where I always want to be. Shepherd of my heart, shepherd me. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

~*~
Song of Reflection #1: “Psalm 23” by Phil Wickham ft. Tiffany Hudson. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “Psalm 23 (I Am Not Alone)” by People & Songs ft. Josh Sherman. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “Shepherd of Love” by The N Crew. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #4: “All We Like Sheep” by Don Moen. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #5: “Who Am I” by Casting Crowns. 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: How being grateful can help heal you and others

Gratitude Brings Healing
A devotional by Patricia Russell

“O give thanks unto the Lord, for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever.”

—Psalm 107:1 (KJV)

One of my favorite pastimes is doing something that requires great subtlety.

It’s something that I think we should all do but see it as a personal development exercise. It’s called people watching. You don’t need to be trained on how to do it but if you tend to stare with a frown on your face, you’re doing it wrong. You have to be subtle. One of my favorite places to watch people is in the grocery store.

I watch the way customers interact with the cashier while checking out. Here is where you see all kinds of personalities and behaviors. My blood starts to boil when customers start yelling or speaking harshly to the associates who are checking out the groceries. A different price comes up and the shouting begins. I’ve tried to stand in the shoes of that associate who may have struggled to get out of bed that morning, get their children off to school, deal with a sick family member and still make it to work on time. Saying “thank you” to the associate for the dispensing of change, the bagging of groceries, the diligence and even just for smiling, can make things better for the person on the other side of the cash register.

Gratitude is becoming an age-old activity that I feel compelled to impart to people every day of my life. From writing an honest but encouraging review to carefully choosing my words as I write an email or seeing the Amazon delivery driver bringing the package to the door rather than just throwing it at the step (he or she didn’t have to do that) . . . all of this gives me gratitude.

According to the Cambridge Dictionary, “gratitude” is “a strong feeling of appreciation to someone or something for what the person has done to help you.” There is so much we can complain about and yet there is so much goodness God has showered on us that I often sense the scales are not balanced between our gratitude and complaints.

Think about Jesus Christ’s interaction with the 10 lepers (Luke 17:11-19). They were sent on their way to go and show themselves to the priests. Jesus did not require the lepers to return to Him and express gratitude for their healing. Yet I believe something arose in the heart of the one leper who was so grateful that he felt compelled to return and give Jesus thanks because he knew deep down it was Jesus who healed his body.

This was huge because he not only got physical healing, but Jesus gave them hope for a new and better life. All of them knew what it was to live in isolation from the community because of their illness. This would have affected every area of their life—from relationships to earning an income and purchasing food—yet most of these people forgot so quickly after being healed to turn back and give thanks to Jesus. The Scriptures state, “and he was a Samaritan” (Luke 17:16 KJV).

Culturally, Samaritans were looked down upon by Jews. They were a scorned people group. Yet, Jesus looked beyond their nationality and saw their need. He exemplified love in action. The Samaritan leper knew this, which increased his gratitude.

Perhaps we in our modern day should ask ourselves, “How are we expressing gratitude and thanks, both to God and to people?” There are opportunities where we can show this that are often overlooked. Here are a few suggestions: We could express gratitude for the mailperson who neatly puts your mail in the box. We could appreciate the gas attendant at the gas station or the cashier to whom we pay for our gas. We could show appreciation for the associate at the store. We could thank the custodian or cleaning person sweeping the store, school or community center. And we could be kind to the cleaning lady in the hotel where we stay.

We don’t know what many of these individuals have to go through to just show up at their post daily. Many times, people look past them. Even the person pushing the shopping carts back to the grocery store can be overlooked. We might say “that’s their job” and I understand. However, “their job” is the reason I can have access to a clean room, store, and checkout line. Saying “thank you” with a smile goes a long way. A simple expression of gratitude can empower them to keep going.

Remember: We can begin our day with gratitude first not to people but to the Lord when we open our eyes in the morning. A great day begins with a grateful heart.

Let’s Pray:

Dear Lord, we are so thankful for waking us up this morning. You have protected us and kept us safe. Lord, we are so grateful. Thank You for allowing us to see a new day. Help us to stay alert to opportunities to express gratitude to everyone who we encounter. May our hearts always be grateful for big and small things.

In Jesus’s Name, I pray. Amen.

~*~
Song of Reflection #1: “God I'm Just Grateful” by Elevation Worship & Chandler Moore. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “Thank You” by The Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir. Listen to it here. 

Song of Reflection #3: “Goodness of God” by CeCe 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.

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

Devotionals for the Heart: Why God wants us to have a grateful heart

Do You Have a Complaining Spirit or A Grateful Heart?
A devotional by Colette Christopher

The rabble with them began to crave other food, and again the Israelites started wailing and said, “If only we had meat to eat! We remember the fish we ate in Egypt at no cost—also the cucumbers, melons, leeks, onions and garlic. But now we have lost our appetite; we never see anything but this manna!”—Numbers 11:5-6 (NIV)

The children of Israel often seemed to forget what the Lord did for them after their exodus from slavery in Egypt and journey to the Promised Land.

They experienced mighty miracles from the hand of the Lord, but that did not stop their complaining spirits. We can be like that as well when we face situations that seem daunting and impossible. When the Lord allows hardships in our lives, we seldom stop to reflect on the good things He did for us in the past.

Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines complain as: “to express grief, pain, or discontent”. When we fail to see the good things that God has done and desire something else rather than what He provides, we are expressing our discontent with Him. This suggests that God does not have the best in store for us nor does He often give us the best. And that is certainly not true. When we read the history of the Israelites, we can see how much God loved His chosen people. It was He who was a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night. It was He who parted the Red Sea and caused them to walk through dry land. It was the same God who gave them manna from heaven, yet they complained about what they had before, and not about what God was doing for them now. They reflected on the meat they had to eat in Egypt, but not on the harsh treatment they had endured as slaves, from which God had delivered them.

I am the first to admit that I was that person, and at times will lean back into that spirit. I tend to forget what God did for me in the past because my focus is on the current difficulty. This tends to happen when I am in a particularly tough season, praying for and expecting a miracle, but the Lord seems nowhere to be found. Can you identify with this?

We can read about the Israelites and think that we would not have complained, but we would. We just need to look back on past hardships and examine our hearts and see that we have done the same thing. Recently, I was praying to the Lord about a particular matter that I desperately need His help with. Truth be told, it required a miracle that I needed to have faith for, but in that moment, I had none.

My mind went back to a place I left seven years ago, and I started telling myself that maybe if I were still there, what I am experiencing would not be happening. As I engaged with that thought, I felt convicted by the Holy Spirit. Immediately, He reminded me of how God came through for me during those seven years. The multiple miracles, favor, grace, and mercy that He extended, and now, because I am in a hard place, I choose to forget what He has done and to complain against my Heavenly Father.

In that moment, all I could do was ask for His forgiveness. I started to recount the many ways that God showed up for me, and I felt so bad because I knew that it was God alone who kept me, my home, my sanity, and so much more. I chose to sing songs of worship from a grateful heart instead of engaging a heart of complaining. In doing so, my entire atmosphere shifted from one of darkness and gloom to one of brightness and hope. It is a choice that we can choose to make.

I still haven’t received the miracle yet, but I know it’s coming, and I still choose to have a grateful heart. It is important to command our spirits to remember the goodness of God because it doesn’t come naturally to us.

We must choose to give thanks for where we are now because God is right here with us, walking alongside each of us in this journey called life. Don’t choose to look back at only the things that you thought satisfied your cravings and made you happy in the past; look back at what God delivered and saved you from. A right perspective matters. God provides us with everything that we need on this journey. The problem is that it doesn’t always fit in with how we think our life should look.

Today, be encouraged that even in the hardness and the harshness of this life, God will take care of you. You may believe that what you are going through now and the provisions that God is giving you currently are inadequate to meet your needs. But please note that it’s not true.

Look at your life and think about the times you choose to express gratitude to God for what He’s given you instead of complaining to Him about what you do not have. What happens in your spirit when you make either the choice to complain or be grateful? What do you see?

The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines gratitude as: “the state of being grateful; thankfulness”. Today, choose thankfulness because the Bible says in Proverbs 17:22 (NLT), “A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a broken spirit saps a person’s strength.”

I choose to be thankful today and every day. What about you?

Let’s Pray:

Heavenly Father,

We acknowledge that You are our God, our Provider, our Source for all that we need. We confess that we have complained against You. Please forgive us for forgetting Your goodness and Your grace. Forgive us for wanting the things of the past and forgetting what You brought us through. Please replace our complaining spirit with a heart of gratefulness. Father, help us when we choose to complain to look towards Your goodness and let praise flow from the inside of us. Lord, I thank you for my friend who is reading this today. Fill his or her heart with joy and remind them that just as You did for the children of Israel, You will do for them too. In Jesus’s name, I pray. Amen.

~*~
Song of Reflection #1: “God I'm Just Grateful” by Elevation Worship & Chandler Moore. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “Thank You” by The Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir. 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

Devotionals for the Heart: How giving and receiving blessings creates joy

The Joy of Accepting Blessings
A devotional by Melissa Henderson

“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.”—James 1:17 (NIV)

I looked forward to attending a writer’s retreat where I would share writing ideas, fellowship with other writers, learn how to improve my writing craft as I sat in workshops, collaborate on devotions, meet with literary agents, and have other rich experiences. Every retreat I attended in the past was filled with laughter and a few tears. The relationships between these writers were strengthened by God.

However, my plans to attend the writer’s retreat changed when arthritic pain in my neck and back intensified. My heart ached when I decided not to attend. Through my decision to stay home, I soon learned the joy of accepting blessings. I sent emails and texts alerting my group of friends that I would not be attending our retreat. Immediately, the responses flooded my inbox: “Oh, Melissa, we’ll miss you. Are you sure you can’t attend?” “What can we do to help?” The compassion and love from the group warmed my heart. Each person covered me with precious prayers and blessings.

After that outpouring of love, I began to feel awkward about letting the group down. The plan was for a dear friend and me to share a room at the rental house. That would help with cost. Most of all, we love sharing time together. This special friend sent a message that she would refund the payment for my part of the room. I explained that she didn’t need to give any money back to me. My anxiety began to surface. I worried about accepting that check from my friend. I thought: “What if she needed that money?” “How could I accept her offer?”

But then, God began to speak to me in wonderful ways. He reminded me that sometimes we need to accept blessings from others. There is no need to feel awkward or embarrassed when someone offers to help. Yet, I am encouraged and inspired when I’m the person who is offering a blessing by helping someone in need. God reminded me through Scripture that every good and perfect gift is from Him. There are times when we can bless others with our words and actions. There are other times when we need to be blessed.

I accepted the check from my friend. That money was needed for an unexpected expense. God knew what was needed. My friend listened to God and blessed my husband and me. Accepting a blessing can bless the giver and the receiver. What a beautiful way to share God’s love and glory!

Today, I paused to think about different types of blessings. We bless people when we acknowledge them, look them in the eyes, and say hello. Listening and hearing what is being said can show God’s love to someone who needs to share about something happening in their life.

I also considered the Blessing Box that my husband and I fill at different times during the month. A team of volunteers from our church are assigned a week to fill the box with food and personal hygiene items. One of our team members recently shared that a man approached him while he was placing items into the box. The stranger thanked him for the food and toiletries.

I also remembered a time when my neighbor was exiting her vehicle this morning and sneezed loud enough to make us laugh. I said, “God bless you.” She responded with a smile and a “thank you”. She said that sneezing made her jump. A simple blessing over a sneeze allowed two neighbors to share a conversation.

I have learned the joy of accepting blessings, and it has encouraged my heart. Have you been blessed in a special way?

Let’s Pray: Dear God, thank You for big and small blessings. Each one is provided by You. May we look for ways to bless others every day. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

~*~
Song of Reflection #1: “Counting My Blessings” by Seph Schlueter. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “So So Good” by Phil Wickham, Brandon Lake, Elevation Worship. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “Blessings Everywhere (Live from the Loft)” feat. Brandon Lake and Elevation Worship. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #4: “Brighter Days” by Blessing Offor. 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.

~*~
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/