God is Love: Terry Overton

Showing posts with label Terry Overton. Show all posts

Wednesday, April 15, 2026

Devotionals for the Heart: When you're tired of being tested by God

How Much Testing is Needed?
A devotional by Terry Overton

“And you shall remember the whole way that the Lord your God has led you these forty years in the wilderness, that he might humble you, testing you to know what was in your heart, whether you would keep his commandments or not.”

—Deuteronomy 8:2 (ESV)

I laughed at a meme on social media and shared it on my page. The meme made me reflect on how we often look back at old photos and are surprised by how young, how thin, or different we looked, unaware of it at the time.

After my initial laughter, I considered it more deeply. I have certainly changed, mostly through facing difficult experiences and challenges. While time now shows on my face or in the color of my hair, the change that matters most has happened within. Changes that happened during overwhelming tests of loss, family crises, and health issues. At times in the years that passed, I wondered, “How much testing is needed? How much more, Lord?”

But then I went back to Scripture, and I was reminded that I am far from the first person to ask that question. I think of Moses who born to a Hebrew woman but raised by Pharoah’s daughter in the royal palace of Egypt. It was a world that did not welcome him as a Hebrew boy, yet he was raised in riches. Later, Moses would return to a humble heritage and be tested beyond anything I can comprehend.

Although Moses had been raised within the royal court of Pharaoh and called by God to lead the Israelites to freedom from slavery in Egypt, he would later spend 40 years in the wilderness and never enter his destination (the Promised Land). That season likely felt like a detour that was far removed from purpose. Yet it was in the desert, in obscurity and humility, that God shaped Moses into a leader who learned to depend fully on Him. God did not waste a single day of it. Moses at last led the people of God to the edge of their promised land. But this had to happen after years of being shaped by God in ways he never would have chosen for himself.

Similarly, the Bible story about Joseph offers another perspective. He was disowned by his brothers, sold into slavery in Egypt, and while there, he was unjustly put in prison for a crime he did not commit. Joseph’s father gave up hope of ever seeing Joseph again after his other sons told him a wild animal had killed Joseph. His father didn’t know the true story about Joseph’s brothers selling Joseph into slavery. After a while, Joseph’s father gave up hope of ever seeing his favorite son again. Yet, after unbelievable hardship, testing, and dedicated work while Joseph was in Egypt, God enabled Joseph to save the family that disowned him. His journey reminds us that testing serves a greater purpose.

These Bible stories are only a few examples about how God tests us before He blesses us. Testing often feels like an interruption, a delay, or even a defeat. Yet throughout Scripture, we see a different truth—testing is God’s tool for preparation, revealing what we cannot see or know in comfort. Testing is part of God’s plan for us. It prepares us for where He wants us to be and for our purpose.

The greatest test with a purpose was what God planned for His own Son (Jesus Christ). Jesus lived His life in human form on Earth. He suffered. He rejoiced. He mourned like we do. Jesus traveled without provisions. He endured ridicule. Humiliation. Ultimately, he died on a wooden cross. None of that was outside the plan of salvation that Christ and His Father (God) put in place to save humankind well before we knew we needed to be saved by Him. The story of Jesus shows us something important: Testing is not always about escape. It is about obedience.

Each of these people I mentioned in the Bible stories were tested before they were used by God. Each of them had no idea while they were being tested and in the throes of despair, that God was still writing their story that would end in victory. Their stories reveal that what seems uncertain now can have significance later.

What looks like the end of your story may be the very place God is writing the most important chapter. Trust Him in the wilderness. Trust Him in the waiting. Trust Him in the suffering. He has never wasted a season. Not one.

Let’s Pray:
Heavenly Father, I won’t pretend the testing doesn’t hurt. But I know You are not absent in it. Help me hold on long enough to see what You are building. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “God is in this Story” by Katy Nichole & Big Daddy Weave. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “It is Well with My Soul” by Audrey Assad. 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

Monday, March 9, 2026

Devotionals for the Heart: When God places you where you belong

When God Places You Where You Belong
A devotional by Terry Overton

“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.”—Romans 12:2 (ESV)

Have you ever taken an action and then wondered if it was the right thing to do?

You prayed about it, talked it over with loved ones, and trusted God. Later, you found yourself quietly wondering, Did I get this wrong?

This happened to me.

Not long ago, my husband and I moved from the warm, sunny coast to a place more than five-hundred miles inland. Once we decided to make the move, after several weeks of prayer and discussion, we listed our house and found one that seemed to meet our needs and check all the boxes. It was closer to family and on the outskirts of a city full of resources for health, plenty of shopping, restaurants, and services.

But after many cold winters, snowy, and icy days, we began to talk about how much we missed the warmer weather of the coast. With that in mind, I planned a two-week long vacation in the middle of the winter. We could visit our long-time friends, play golf, go on walks, eat in our favorite beachside cafes, and go to the beach. Wondering if moving north had been the right thing to do in this season of life, we discussed the possibility of looking at some of the currently listed homes in our old neighborhood on the coast. The two-week rental seemed perfect, and they allowed us to bring our sweet dog.

What happened next was a clear message from God that He had indeed planned for us to move north and, He put an exclamation on our move during our trip back to the coast. The two-week vacation was shortened to a mere five days. Why? We both wanted to be back in our “own home”. As the verse above states, we should not be conformed to this world or our desires. For me, it meant God was saying, “Do not think you know the path? When guided by Me, do not look back. Only through testing, will you discern My will.”

Just a few days into our dream vacation, my mind was transformed and my appreciation for the wonderful home up north was renewed. When we moved north, it was because He knew there was something better for us in the new location. The short trip underscored His plan for me and helped me to understand to surrender to His plan, I must give up my longing for control. By planning an extended vacation to the coast, I had intended to control outcomes. But God asks us to surrender all outcomes to Him. I was reminded that He plans my steps. He directs my route.

Sometimes God lets us revisit what we thought we missed, not to take us backward, but to show us how much we’ve changed. What once felt like home may not fit who God is shaping us to be now. What once made us long for the past may now feel strangely empty. It’s not because it was wrong, but because it belonged to a different time.

When we returned to our current home, I felt blessed beyond belief. It was God’s plan for us to move here. This was home. I no longer had doubts about His plan. I feel His purposeful presence here. The only way I can discern His plans and transform my own understanding is to be faithful, let go of control, and place everything in His hands.

My visit to the coast confirmed that God had already placed us exactly where we belonged. What once seemed uncertain became a powerful reminder that God sometimes allows us to revisit old places to show us how He has transformed our hearts and redirected our lives.

Let’s Pray:

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for providing tests of faith that provide true understanding of Your will. Forgive me for wanting to control the outcomes You have already set in motion for me. Help me to stay close to You and strive to know Your path for me.

In Jesus’s name I pray.

Amen.

~*~
Song of Reflection #1: “He is with Us” by Love & The Outcome. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “I Need Thee Every Hour” (Hymn). 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.

Monday, January 12, 2026

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.

Friday, December 5, 2025

Devotionals for the Heart: What to do when you're feeling overwhelmed

When the Inbox Overflows
A devotional by Terry Overton

“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”

—Matthew 11:28 (ESV)

I checked my email before the sun was up. Once again, my inbox is overflowing. It is full of two types of email messages: someone wants something from me, or someone wants me to make time for them to offer something to me. I looked at the list. Some of the unanswered emails were from weeks ago yet still unanswered.

I am in a season where I need support but want to avoid all demands. Have you been there? Life’s noise doesn’t just come from outside; it comes from inside—our thoughts, expectations, guilt, and “shoulds.” Even when we try to rest, our minds often scroll through tasks we haven’t completed. We feel we can’t stop because everything seems urgent.

But Jesus Christ’s invitation in Matthew 11:28 is not about adding another task to your list—it’s about relief. He doesn’t say, “Finish your work and then come to me.” He simply says, “Come to me.” It’s an open door in the middle of chaos, not at the end of it. Jesus says in Psalm 46:10 (ESV): “Be still, and know that I am God.” But the voice I hear in my mind is one that says, “Get it done or you will miss the deadline. Don’t stop now. You’re not tired! You can’t stop.” However, if I close my eyes and quiet my mind then I hear another voice. God whispers a calming message: “Be still.”

In an action that seems counterintuitive, I close my laptop. My heart is heavy. My mind feels stretched beyond capacity. I stop. I stop trying to finish self-imposed demands. I stop and whisper, “Jesus, I’m here.” He’s not checking my productivity to see if I’ve met my goal. He is not concerned if I achieved more today than yesterday. No, He is concerned with my well-being. He’s healing my exhaustion.

Have you felt this? Too many demands, schedules, timelines, and not enough rest? This is not what our Lord and Savior wants for us. He is our loving Father. He wants His children to feel His love, compassion, and peace. Stillness doesn’t always mean laziness or incompetence—it means surrender. It’s the pause between breaths where you let go of your busyness and remember who holds the world together (God, not you).

Psalm 46:10 doesn’t say “work harder and know that I am God.” It says, “Be still.” The psalmist wrote those words during turmoil, not peace. God calls us to trust Him even when the world presses us to move faster, produce more, be better at everything. God remains unshaken.

Resting in Him isn’t laziness—it’s surrender. It’s believing that God’s strength can hold what burdens you. His love is everlasting. This means He loves you when you are overwhelmed and He knows you need rest. When others demand, “Pay attention or answer now”, the quiet voice of Jesus whispers, “Abide in Me.”

The work will still be there, but resting in Jesus will provide you with strength and peace. Return to Him. Rest in Him. Trust God. His love will bring you peace.

Let’s Pray: Father, thank You for always loving me and protecting me. Teach me that rest is peace with You and renewal. Replace my hurriedness with silence and rest. Lord, I bring You my exhaustion and endless to-do list. Teach me to release what I can’t control, and to find peace in Your presence. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “Be Still and Know” by Steven Curtis Chapman. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “Abide in Me” by Ana Laura. 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.

Friday, November 7, 2025

Devotionals for the Heart: God is our refuge and strength in every storm

Finding Refuge When the Storm Won’t Stop
A devotional by Terry Overton

“He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the Lord, “My refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.”—Psalm 91:1-2 (ESV)

The pounding of my heart was fierce as the dream shook me in the darkest of dark hours of night. The story stayed with me throughout the day.

A storm sweeping across the land—destroying everything in its path. The storm in my dream lingered long after waking. I saw myself, running from house to house, seeking safety, but there was no escape. The winds howled louder, and fear increased. Yet even in that darkness, a message was placed on my heart: this is not a dream of doom. It is a divine reminder that our safety is not in the house we choose but in the God who holds us steady.

In Scripture, storms often serve as the backdrop for divine encounters. When the disciples of Jesus Christ feared the waves might swallow them as they teetered in the boat, Jesus was asleep (Mark 4:38). They cried out in desperation, “Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?” He awoke and rebuked the wind and said to the sea, “Peace! Be still!” (Mark 4:39). The storm obeyed, and the disciples learned a truth that every believer must face—peace is not found in calm weather but in Christ’s presence.

Sometimes the storms in our lives—illness, loss, grief, conflict, uncertainty—feel so fierce that we can’t find our footing. We try to outrun the pain, moving from one “house” to another: one plan, one distraction, one intervention, one new place to hide. Yet the wind finds us wherever we go. That’s because storms of the soul are not meant to destroy us—they are intended to draw us closer to the only shelter that cannot be shaken.

Psalm 91:1 (ESV) promises us, “He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty.” The word dwelling means staying—not running, not moving from place to place, but resting. It means letting go of the illusion of control and allowing God to be the refuge instead of trying to build one ourselves. The dream of moving from house to house is a picture of what we often do in real life: We look for safety in our own strength, forgetting that the safest place in any storm is right in the center of God’s will.

When you feel like there’s no escape, remember this truth: God’s presence is not limited by walls or locations. You can’t outrun His love, and you don’t need to. The storm may rage, but He walks upon it. He speaks through it. He stands between you and the destruction. What feels like a moment of terror may be an invitation to surrender—to stop moving and let the Almighty fight on your behalf.

God promises us this in Isaiah 43:2 (ESV), “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you.”

You are not meant to escape the storm—you are meant to endure it through grace. Where was Jesus in the storm on the sea? He was in the boat. Where did God say He would be in the waters? With us. When everything shakes, and the winds threaten to undo what you’ve built or what you think you have in life, cling to the Rock that cannot be moved. Let His peace silence your fears.

Let’s Pray: Heavenly Father, my heart may cry in this storm because I try to control what only You can. Help me to remember to lay my fear at Your feet. Help my heart to understand that during the storm, my soul is in Your hands. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “When You Walk Through the Water” by Allison Durham. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “God is Our Refuge and Strength | Psalm 46:1” by Timothy Tye. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “Sometimes He Calms the Storm” by Scott Krippayne. 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.

Friday, October 3, 2025

Devotionals for the Heart: When you didn't choose the valley lows in life

I Didn’t Choose this Valley
A devotional by Terry Overton

“I called on your name, O Lord, from the depths of the pit; you heard my plea, ‘Do not close your ear to my cry for help!’ You came near when I called on you; you said, ‘Do not fear.’”—Lamentations 3:55-57 (ESV)

Like most of you reading this devotional, there have been many highs and lows, seasons, blessings, and tragedies in my life.

Currently, I find myself walking through a lengthy valley with an uncertain future. It is easy to spiral in the wrong direction, repeating questions of “Why me?” or “Why now?” or “Why this?” and of course, the ever-important questions like, “Did I make the wrong choice?” or “Did I cause this to happen?” One can’t go through a rough patch without trying to assign blame.

These negative thoughts and pesky questions go nowhere. They occupy time and space that could be filled with God’s blessings. But it was one of these mornings walking through this undesired valley when I received the tiniest blessings which spoke to me of our great God. I was sitting outside in the space where I often go to meet God, read the Bible, sing praises, and pray. But this time, I had not retreated to the porch to find God. Instead, I went to my sacred space to escape being in the valley. I wanted something to feel normal as I gathered my thoughts and prepared for the rest of the day. But my mind was not in a good place, and my heart ached even more.

That is when it happened: A gentle breeze and a colorful dragonfly floated by. The first songs of the Carolina Wren called out. Another breeze brought a yellow butterfly zigging in and out. My heart and mind quickly remembered: God made these creatures. He still creates, establishes His will, and performs miracles. Everything is in His hands, including me.

In Scripture, we find stories of many people who walked through valleys they did not request. Job had everything taken from him, but he chose to praise God through the storm and trust Him through the trials. After those dark times were over, God blessed Job with even more wonderful gifts. Read the Bible book of Job for the full story. Elijah, fearing for his life, fled, and God gave him instructions on where to go to meet Him. What happened? A mountain was torn apart, and an earthquake rattled the rocks, and a fire emerged. But God was not there in the disasters; He was in a gentle breeze that came to Elijah. Read 1 Kings 19:1-12 for Elijah’s story. And how about Moses? He didn’t ask to be stranded in the desert with no food. What happened? God heard the cries for food and provided daily manna. Read Exodus 16 for this story about Moses. And what about Paul and Silas? They didn’t ask to be imprisoned for their beliefs. But what did they do? They praised God, and they were freed. Read Acts 16:16-40 for Silas and Paul’s full story.

There are many more examples of people in the Bible overcoming disasters far worse than my own. But they were never abandoned. God provided for each of them. He will provide for me. Walking through the valley, God will comfort me, He will guide me, He will provide. I didn’t choose this valley, but I will choose to see God’s hand in it. I choose to lean in and listen. I choose to open my eyes to God’s blessings. I choose to rely on His strength and not worry about being able to do it all. He is with me.

In closing, I’d like for you to meditate on this Bible verse. Psalm 23:4 (ESV) says, “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.”

Let’s Pray:

Dear Heavenly Father,

My heart hurts at times. I did not choose this valley, but You have chosen it for me. I know You will be by my side through it all and provide for me. Remind me each day You are near. Help me to understand and feel Your peace each day.

In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “Peacespeaker” (Live from Prague)” by Heritage Singers. Listen to it here.

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

Song of Reflection #3: “Hills and Valleys” by Tauren Wells. 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.

Friday, September 12, 2025

Devotionals for the Heart: Walking my dog taught me how to trust God

Why We Need to Let Go of Control
A devotional by Terry Overton

“Now the word of the Lord came to Jonah the son of Amittai, saying, ‘Arise, go to Nineveh, that great city, and call out against it, for their evil has come up before me.’ But Jonah rose to flee to Tarshish from the presence of the Lord. He went down to Joppa and found a ship going to Tarshish. So he paid the fare and went down into it, to go with them to Tarshish, away from the presence of the Lord.”—Jonah 1:1-3 (ESV)

Each morning before the sun inches over the horizon, I bounce eagerly from my bed and dress quickly to partake in an adventure!

I do not travel far on this journey, just a mile or two. My morning itinerary includes taking my dog Bella—a miniature gray and white Schnauzer weighing exactly twelve pounds and two ounces—for our early morning walks. I use this time to praise God for His countless blessings of creation. His handiwork surrounds me on my walking path. The busy sound of chattering squirrels, the deep calls of the hooting owls, budding flowers of spring, trees changing to their fall colors, the rising sun reflecting yellow and orange on the water of our lake. All these wonders in God’s creation proclaim the glory of God and showcase His majesty!

More than once, I have returned from our early morning walk inspired to complete the tasks of the day with renewed strength and joy.

My walk with my dog is not always enjoyable or predictable. My adorable pooch is one of the most stubborn pups I have ever had. She does not realize the direction she wants to travel is in the path of an oncoming car or a 150-pound unruly dog. Bella tugs the leash in the opposite direction from where I am leading her, with more force than expected for a tiny dog. I often find myself wondering if I might be like Bella, guided by God and on a safe path, but with ideas of my own. Do I pull the other way and resist the path He wants me to take?

How often have I failed to let Him be in control? How frequently have I fought against what He asked me to do? Just as Jonah in the Old Testament, have I ignored God’s call and gone in the completely wrong direction? I must confess I have. I have fought for control, I thought I knew better, and became impatient, and subsequently, I have run into challenging circumstances or situations.

When I take control, grow impatient, or ignore His guidance, I end up in painful consequences and only then do I ask God, “Why?” Just like Jonah found himself in the belly of a big fish (kind of like God’s version of a “Time Out” for Jonah to be still and reflect about his bad choices and actions), I land in the center of a disaster when I go my own way. And only then do I look back and retrace the steps I took. Why did I take a particular step? Why did I skip that step? Why did I refuse to step forward or turn backward? Why did I resist or ignore? The answer is simple: I thought I was in control. This is an illusion. We are never in control! Our God is always in charge. We might wish for control, but our reasoning is faulty.

The Bible says in Proverbs 16:9 (ESV), “The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.” God guides us through Scripture and His actions. We see evidence of His control through the unpredictable events of our lives that He allows: illnesses happen, jobs are lost or obtained, financial crises surface, relationships are found or lost, babies are born, and our loved ones die. These are all beyond our control.

I think that the reason why we strive for control is because when we try to surrender our perception of control, it leads to anxiety. We develop fear when we do not know how our situation will end. A lack of power, feeling helpless or hopeless about events in our lives increases our worry. But through prayer and developing a closer relationship with God, we can choose not to become anxious. He has instructed us to hand our anxiety and worry over to Him.

The Bible advises us in 1 Peter 5:7 (NIV), “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” The Word tells us we can let go of the anxiety by letting God handle our worries. He cares for us and does not wish for us to be burdened with fear and worry.

Jonah learned his lesson, and from the inside of the giant fish, he prayed to God, acknowledging how God had blessed him in the past. He told God he would follow His will. Once Jonah found himself on dry land again, he went to Nineveh, obeyed God, and Nineveh was delivered. God had a plan, and nothing Jonah could do would stop the plans He established.

When I struggle for control, the story of Jonah serves as a valuable example. When I am anxious for control, I must remember to thank God for all He has done and turn over my worries to Him. We don’t know the plan or the answers. But God does and that is all we need to know.

Let’s Pray:

Heavenly Father,

In my weakness, I confess I try to take control instead of resting in Your power. Please forgive me when I forget that Your plan is best. Remind me each day that You alone are in control, and Your ways are higher than mine. Teach me to trust Your guidance so that I may grow closer to You and walk in Your will.

In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

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

Song of Reflection #2: “I Give You My Heart” by Hillsong Worship. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “God Has Another Plan” by Babbie Mason. 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.

Friday, August 1, 2025

Devotionals for the Heart: How I learned to survive dry seasons in life

When You’re Experiencing a Dry Season
A devotional by Terry Overton

“But the Lord was with Joseph and showed him steadfast love and gave him favor in the sight of the keeper of the prison.”—Genesis 39:21 (ESV)

The week was one to remember—and not in a good way.

As a caregiver for a loved one, my own strength and faith must be intact for me to have the energy and organization to complete all routines. However, just as the saying goes that you have probably heard from flight attendants, “Put your own mask on first.” This statement means that if I don’t have sufficient strength and oxygen, I cannot meet the needs of others. Yet here I was.

The morning that tested everything within me began like most days: preparing a quick breakfast, checking on medications, and taking our little dog for a walk.

Shortly after the walk, while sitting on my porch reading Scripture, a yellow jacket bee zoomed in from nowhere and inserted its painful stinger into my finger. Not a big deal for many, but being allergic to stings, it was a way to ruin an entire week.

Thankfully, the urgent care center is only a few minutes away from my house, and after employing the usual immediate interventions, I was able to find my way there and receive treatment. The weeklong steroid therapy took its toll. Five days passed with a range of only two to four hours of sleep each night until I was able to finish the round of medication.

On that last day, I woke up after only two hours of sleep. My well was dry. I had nothing left. No strength, no cheer, no creativity. My mind went to the Bible story about Joseph being thrown by his brothers into a dry cistern. They referred to him as a dreamer and the favorite son. Filled with jealousy, they stripped Joseph of the special coat given to him by their father and took away his dignity. They threw him into a dry cistern and decided to get rid of him by selling him into slavery in another country. His peaceful life was exchanged for the worst predicament one can imagine. He had no power. But he had faith in God.

As the Bible story reveals, Joseph’s demise was temporary. We learn he would not have been able to save his family and thousands of others had he not been thrown in that pit. As we study this story, it becomes apparent that the pit was not the end; it was a holding place for something more important. Joseph had to go there so he could become a world leader years later and save the very brothers who abandoned him. The cistern was a brief but essential stop in the history of Joseph’s story in the Bible and the history of his people. Joseph’s suffering was for a purpose.

But how did Joseph make it through those challenging times? First, he believed God was with him no matter the circumstances. He knew that God had been with him in the past and would continue to be with him, keeping His promises, along the way. Even when everyone around him begged him to give up and surrender, he maintained his integrity. He did not rush into trying to control situations. He trusted God. After all his difficulties, he did not become bitter or take out his frustration and anger on the people around him. Had he not relied on his firmly grounded faith, he would not have been able to wait on God’s timing and God’s plans.

Remaining firm in faith is of vital importance for self-care. Joseph maintained his faith and strength. He stayed grounded and waited on God. For me, taking this week to be in a “pit” helped me see how vital self-care and the strength of my spirit are for the care of my loved one. Following the example of Joseph, I realized that like Joseph, I needed to remain strong even when circumstances were against me. If I am to impart cheerfulness, faith, and hope, I must have energy and the warmth in my heart provided to me by the Holy Spirit. To impart faith, I must have it, to impart hope, I must feel it and to provide care, I must pray for strength and energy to complete this job God has placed before me. Feeling like I was in a dry well gave me time to read, reflect, and pray. Following this self-care steps ensured that my strength and energy would return.

The same is true for mothers, teachers, wives, sons, and daughters, who care for elderly family members. We are all God’s workers serving His purpose, even when our circumstances are difficult. When we find ourselves feeling like there is nothing left, feeling abandoned, forgotten, unloved, disliked, and even struck down, perhaps this is a holding place for us as we renew our faith and strength and wait for the next step in God’s plan.

Let’s Pray:

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for filling my heart with Your Spirit. When I face hardships that feel too heavy for my heart, I know I am not facing these difficult times alone. You are with me. Help me to keep my eyes on You and wait for your plans to emerge. Remind me to wait on Your timing. I pray that You continue to strengthen me so that I may complete the work You have placed before me.

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: “Joseph’s Song” by Shelly E. Johnson. 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.

Friday, July 4, 2025

Devotionals for the Heart: When God saved me from making a mistake

When God Saved Me from Making a Mistake
A devotional by Terry Overton

“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.”—Jeremiah 29:11 (ESV)

Before sunrise, my little dog Bella and I slipped out for an early walk. We wanted to beat the heat and explore more of our new neighborhood.

The world was beginning to stir—the squirrels chattered in the trees, and the chirps of morning birds drifted quietly into the morning air. A cool breeze made it feel like we could go a little farther today. We took our usual path at a brisk pace, but something nudged me to turn down a street I hadn’t explored since the move. Why not? I thought. The wind picked up, chiming a neighbor’s porch bells, and the turn on the road felt like an invitation to adventure.

Though we’d lived here only a few months, the street names were familiar from all the house-hunting listings I’d studied before our move. But the specific sequence of streets between our house and the main road remained a mystery. Curious, I kept going. One street, then another. My fitness tracker encouraged me to push for another mile. Hills seemed to rise beneath my steps, then downhill slopes, but I kept wondering: Would the next street be the one that finally loops back?

Then I saw the sign: No Exit. The next one? Dead End. And finally, just when I was ready to turn back, I saw a street name I recognized—Incline. I looked down that street and smiled. It was suitably named. Breathing heavily, I climbed the hill and remembered why that name stuck in my mind: Months earlier, my husband and I wanted to buy a house on this street, but someone beat us to it. I remembered how disappointed we were to read “Contract Pending.” The interior of the house, the floorplan, the type of flooring, and from what we could see online, the backyard panoramic view, all looked amazing.

But as I passed that house we did not buy, the sun crested over the hill and lit up the view. And just like that, I saw what we hadn’t seen in the online images: power lines cutting across the horizon, rooftops and buildings crowding the distance, and the lake below blocked by newer homes. The view I’d imagined as peaceful was in reality, obstructed and noisy. In that quiet, golden moment, I felt a deep sense of gratitude. God had protected us from a decision we might have regretted.

The view from my yard has always mattered to me, not for the pride of having a nice yard but for the peace it brings. I’ve lived near ponds, lagunas, and resacas—each one a sacred space where I’ve met with God in the early hours. I would pray, read Scripture, and write in these spaces. It’s not just about a pretty yard. It’s about a place where my soul can breathe. It’s a place where I sit with Him, who holds me in His hands, walks with me, walks beside me, and gives me peace.

We didn’t get that house on Incline Street. Instead, we found the one meant for us—an older home with character, nestled between woods, a creek, and a quiet cove that opens to the lake. It’s peaceful. Private. Perfect.

How many times has God saved me from my own missteps? How many times did I think I knew the best route, the best decision, the best next step to take? Too many to count. I’ve made plenty of choices attempting to control what was in His hands, trying to force my own path. However, the walk this morning reminded me: God is always at work behind the scenes. He doesn’t just provide what we want—He gives us what we need, even when we don’t see it yet.

And sometimes, all it takes to see that He provides what we need is to continue to walk one more mile with Him.

Let’s Pray:

Heavenly Father,

You have provided many blessings and at times I do not realize You are busy working in the quiet. Help me to remember to trust You in all things. You know the best path for my life. Thank You for always holding my hand and being by my side in all circumstances. I pray this in the name of Your Holy Son (Jesus Christ). Amen.

Song of Reflection: “I Know the Plans (Audrey’s song)” by Damaris Carbaugh. 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:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/terry.overton.71653
Author Website: https://www.authorterryoverton.com/
Link Tree: https://linktr.ee/overtont

Monday, June 30, 2025

Devotionals for the Heart: How to trust God when you cannot see Him

Trusting God's Hidden Presence in Your Storm
A backup devo by Terry Overton

“O Lord, you have searched me and known me! You know when I sit down and when I rise up; you discern my thoughts from afar. You search out my path and my lying down and are acquainted with all my ways. Even before a word is on my tongue, behold, O Lord, you know it altogether. You hem me in, behind and before, and lay your hand upon me.”—Psalm 139:1-5 (ESV)

Looking back over time, I realized during the worst times of my life, I felt abandoned, completely alone.

I thought that no member of my family understood what I was going through. No one had ever walked in my shoes. No one was able to understand and offer help. No one could feel the depth of my pain and understand it. No one knew the extent of my sorrow. Whether the rough times were due to the failing health of a family member, witnessing a loved one fall on hard financial times, seeing a child or relative suffer consequences brought on by their own poor choices, knowing a loved one had been betrayed by another, feeling helpless and unable to help others—these were dark and devastating parts of my life journey that I felt I was experiencing utterly alone.

These events hurt my heart. I looked around and saw no one. I heard no one with words of comfort. I felt alone, lost, and abandoned. I felt unseen, unheard, unappreciated, unwell, unpowerful, and, at times, unloved.

Perhaps you have found yourself in such situations—desperately wanting help, relief, a cure, or a miracle from God. It is during these times we may question, “Why doesn’t God help me? Has He left me? Is He still here? Does He see me? Does He hear my pleas? Does He see my tears?”

Here’s what I’ve learned over the years of my life: Even when God is silent, He is still standing with us. One of the best examples we can read about in The Holy Bible that proves God’s continued presence is the story about Joseph’s life. He was not only abandoned by his brothers who hated him; he was thrown away, treated like rubbish, discarded into a pit, never to be seen or heard from again.

But God didn’t see it that way at all. Only after we examine the events of Joseph’s journey from the pit to the palace, can we affirm that not only were the events parts of God’s bigger plan, but God was with Joseph through it all. The Bible says in Genesis 39:2 that Joseph was purchased by Potipher as a slave, but the Lord was with Joseph, so he prospered. When Joseph was in prison (Genesis 39:20-21), the Bible says the Lord was with him there too and provided opportunity. When Joseph worked for the warden of the prison, the Lord helped Joseph have success in everything he did. As a result, the warden developed trust in Joseph.

God planned to place Joseph in a position to save his brothers who had acted harshly and sold him into slavery. Now, when his brothers and father found themselves in a horrible famine, God provided food through the actions of Joseph. God had been with Joseph the whole time, and Joseph’s faith in God grew.

Later in life, Joseph’s brothers felt remorse for their actions. They humbled themselves before Joseph and wanted to make things right (Genesis 50:15-21). But what did Joseph say? Since he now understood God’s plan for him, he responded in Genesis 50:20 (ESV), “As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive as they are today.”

When we wonder if God has abandoned us, we must remember that He is with us, as He was with Joseph. He is with us, just as Jesus Christ was in the boat with His disciples during the storm. God is with us as He was with Moses every step across the desert. In the big picture, God planned for Joseph to save lives and help others to prosper. God’s Son (Jesus Christ) was in the boat not just to save the disciples from being overturned in the stormy sea, but to save the disciples to spread the wonderful news of His love for us all. God was with Moses when he led the people to the Promised Land so that their heritage would continue and bless the world.

If you feel abandoned, remember God sees you and understands the depths of your pain. He is walking with us, He is walking ahead of us, He is walking behind us, and He sits with us in the stormy sea. God is with us in the pit of our sorrow. He parts the waters to take us along the right path. Even in our most troubled times on Earth, God walks with us through the shadow of death and offers comfort (Psalm 23:4). May we always remember to praise God for being with us. Let’s hold on to His hand and ask Him, “What should I do? What is my next step to serve you?”

Let’s Pray:

Heavenly Father,

My life may feel challenging or even hopeless at times. But I know You are here with me and You bring me comfort when my world does not make sense. Thank You for loving me and seeing my heart. Help me to sit peacefully and wait on Your timing. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

~*~
Song of Reflection: “The God Who Sees” by Nicole C. Mullen. 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:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/terry.overton.71653
Author Website: https://www.authorterryoverton.com/
Link Tree: https://linktr.ee/overtont

Monday, May 19, 2025

Devotionals for the Heart: How to hear God's Voice and follow Him

Hearing God’s Voice
A devotional by Terry Overton

“My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.”

—John 10:27 (ESV)

In past years, I have received wonderful birthday presents, such as weekend getaways with my husband, flowers, gift cards, books, and jewelry. But this year my birthday was on Sunday, and I got the perfect present! I got to go to church.

That may sound strange to most people, but as a full-time caregiver for a loved one with early-stage Alzheimer’s, I am usually at home on Sunday mornings watching services on TV. But this week, I was able to attend. Going to church was the perfect present for me. How I missed being able to listen to the message in person.

The music played as I walked down the aisle to a pew near the front. I wanted to see and take in every moment, every sound, every smell of the remaining flowers from Easter that decorated the altar. I sat in awe as The Holy Spirit washed over me and the warmth of knowing I was with fellow believers who received the wonderful message. Even after the service, I did not want to leave. I wanted to sit in the peace and calm of His house for a few minutes longer. I wanted to sing one more song, say one more prayer, and hear one more verse relating to the message.

The message I heard spoke to my heart. It was indeed a message I needed. God knew that. This chapter of my life had only begun a few months before and I still had questions about the role in which I had been placed. I grappled with thoughts like: “Am I doing this right? Are the plans for the day His will? Am I reacting lovingly? Are the decisions I make the best ones for my loved one?” These questions are ones asked by caregivers, parents, grandparents, wives and husbands.

Relying on Scripture has been my source of strength and peace when behaviors are challenging. Scripture can calm the mind and heart of anyone facing life events. Scripture has been my peace of mind, but questions remained about the next steps and the care I am giving. I want to be sure my decisions are consistent with God’s will. I want His love to be reflected in the care I provide.

The service that Sunday focused on how we can know and understand God’s will. How can we discern what He wants us to do? What are the next steps we are to take? We are told that as His followers, we can listen to His voice. But how can we hear Him? We learn to recognize His voice by spending time in His Word.

Like sheep who know their Shepherd’s call, we begin to discern the promptings of the Holy Spirit through Scripture. The more time we spend in God’s Word (The Holy Bible), the easier it becomes to identify truth from error, peace from chaos, and wisdom from folly.

The message I heard was meant for me that Sunday. Even after the service, I did not want to leave. I wanted to sit in the peace and calm of God’s house for a few minutes longer. Walking back out to the car, I knew spending more time with the Word would be my best strategy in the coming months.

I realized we’re not called to walk perfectly but faithfully. We are not to know all the next steps; we are to trust that God knows. With Scripture as our roadmap, we can navigate life with purpose and peace no matter what tasks we are given.

Let’s make reading God’s Word our daily habit—not just for knowledge but to better hear the voice of our Shepherd (Jesus Christ).

Let’s Pray:

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for giving us Your Word to guide us and provide peace during difficult times. Help me to turn to Scripture when I have doubts and to pray when I need Your help and guidance.

In the name of Your precious Son, Jesus Christ,

Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Still Waters (Psalm 23)” by Leanna Crawford. 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:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/terry.overton.71653
Author Website: https://www.authorterryoverton.com/
Link Tree: https://linktr.ee/overtont

Monday, March 31, 2025

Devotionals for the Heart: When you wonder if God cares about your pain

Does God Know Our Pain?
A devotional by Terry Overton

“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.”—Jeremiah 29:11 (ESV)

The bright rays of sunshine streaming through my kitchen window invited me to step outside onto my porch, hoping for the feel of an early spring.

But the chill in the air that greeted me sent a stark reminder that winter remained. There were no blooms, buds, or green leaves emerging on the trees. I glanced down at the brown branch of a rose bush with no bud. It was fitting that the scene in my garden matched my sense of being in the pit. This experience made me think, “Does God not see our sorrow?”

I glanced at the rose bush's lower limbs, and there it was—a tiny leaf struggling to push through and open to the sunlight. My own prayers asked for the same sense of hope in the future. I, too, struggle at times to stretch out my arms with gladness, knowing of God's love. Watching a loved one struggle with an untreatable health condition, knowing this was a long goodbye of sorts, I needed God's help desperately. Does He know my pain?

The Bible says in Psalm 56:8 (ESV), “You have kept count of my tossings; put my tears in your bottle. Are they not in your book?”

A thought raced through my mind: “Of course He knows. He knows all.” God knows the roses wither and die, but He restores them in the spring. He knows they will die before they do, and He knows when they will bloom again. A sense of peace overcame my soul. It is all in His hands. He not only knows our sorrows, but He will provide help.

The Bible says in Psalm 34:18 (ESV), “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.”

Listening to the high-pitched chirps of tiny finches flittering through the brittle brown limbs of a nearby tree, I realized what a gift He had given me. I have the gift of seeing His handiwork, of witnessing His blessings all around me, and of time to share with my loved one who is still here with me. He had given me the gift of hope and the gift of joy in the moment as I stood by the rose bush.

The Bible says in Psalm 126:5 (ESV), “Those who sow in tears shall reap with shouts of joy!”

Taking a deep breath, I returned to my kitchen with a peaceful heart and hopeful thoughts. Now, I was ready to meet the day that awaited me. I could not anticipate how I would be needed, but I knew I would be able to meet the challenges that would come my way. The strength of my heart had been restored.

The Bible says in Job 14:7-9 (ESV), “For there is hope for a tree, if it be cut down, that it will sprout again, and that its shoots will not cease. Though its root grow old in the earth, and its stump die in the soil, yet at the scent of water it will bud and put out branches like a young plant.”

The sight of the emerging tiny green leaf in the cold air was a message. It was a reminder that spring will arrive just on time. God sent a powerful reminder to me. Pain is not the end. Pain is the reminder. God will provide us with strength, peace, and hope.

Let’s Pray:

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for knowing my pain and helping me understand that pain is not the absence of joy. I know two things—joy and sadness—can exist in my heart, but You provide peace and hope to sustain me through it all. Thank you, Lord!

In the name of Your Son, Jesus Christ, I pray.

Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: "He's Concerned" by CeCe Winans. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “Here with You” by Donnie McClurkin. 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:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/terry.overton.71653
Author Website: https://www.authorterryoverton.com/
Link Tree: https://linktr.ee/overtont