Category Archives: Words of encouragement

Jun2

Unfailing Peace When You’re Falling to Pieces

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"You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, 
because they trust in You." – Isaiah 26:3 (NIV)

Life has a way of unraveling right before our eyes. One moment, everything seems under control, and the next, the weight of the world crashes down. Unexpected loss, financial struggles, broken relationships, or health challenges can leave us feeling like we’re falling apart.

Yet, in the midst of chaos, God offers us something the world cannot: unfailing peace. A peace that steadies us when life shakes us. A peace that holds us together when everything else is falling apart.

The key to this peace isn’t found in changing our circumstances but in shifting our focus from the problem to the Problem-Solver. Isaiah 26:3 tells us that perfect peace comes when our minds are firmly fixed on God, rather than our troubles. When we trust in Him, we can rest in His unshakable presence, knowing He is in control even when we are not.

Lean into Scripture. Meditate on His promises, and let His truth calm your anxious heart. Philippians 4:6-7 reminds us to bring everything to God in prayer, and His peace will guard our hearts and minds. 

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4: 6 - 7

Instead of carrying the burden alone, release it to God. Tell Him your fears, your worries, and your doubts. He invites us to cast our cares on Him because He cares for us (1 Peter 5:7).

When fear tries to take over, remind yourself of how God has come through for you before. If He was faithful then, He will be faithful now. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8).

No matter what you’re facing today, take heart. You are not alone. God’s peace is not dependent on perfect circumstances—it is anchored in His perfect presence. Let Him hold you together, even when you feel like you’re falling to pieces.

A Prayer for Unfailing Peace

Dear Heavenly Father, When I feel overwhelmed, remind me of Your unfailing peace. Help me to fix my eyes on You instead of my circumstances. Strengthen my heart, calm my mind, and fill me with the assurance that You are in control. Thank You for being my refuge and my ever-present help in times of trouble. I choose to trust in You today and rest in the peace that only You can give. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Scriptures for Peace

  • John 14:27 – “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”
  • Psalm 46:1 – “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.”
  • 2 Thessalonians 3:16 – “Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you.”

Even when life feels like it’s crumbling, God’s peace can anchor your soul. He will never fail you.

Nov16

God’s Whispers in the Storm: A Lifeline in Troubled Times

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God’s Word often shines brightest in our darkest seasons of life. When our circumstances feel overwhelming, His promises, whispered through Scripture, carry a sweetness that we might not fully appreciate in easier times. Like manna in the wilderness, His Word sustains us and nourishes our weary souls.

In Psalm 119:143, the psalmist reveals this profound truth: “Even though my troubles overwhelm me with anguish, I still delight and cherish every message you speak to me.” Troubles can weigh heavily on our hearts, but this verse provides a glimmer of hope to help lighten our burdens.

It’s often in hardships that we discover the depths of God’s faithfulness. The same verse that comforts us today may have seemed ordinary when life was simpler, but now it is a lifeline. The sweetness of His Word reminds us that He is near, He understands our pain, and He will carry us through.

If you feel overwhelmed with troubles today, open God’s Word and allow His promises to speak to your heart. You may find His truth tastes sweeter than ever before.

Related Verses:

  • “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Psalm 34:18
  • “But He said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.” 2 Corinthians 12:9

A Prayer for Today:

Dear Lord, When my troubles overwhelm me, and my heart feels heavy, help me find peace in Your Word. Instead of focusing on the stormy circumstances swirling around in my life, remind me of your faithfulness and help me find strength in Your truth. Thank you for being close to the brokenhearted. May Your power be made perfect in my weakness. Please fill me with Your peace that passes understanding. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Oct7

Treasures in Heaven: Eternal Investments

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I used to drive by the abandoned home pictured here and imagine the stories from its glory days—when it was filled with a loving family and parents who watched their children grow up here. The walls likely heard the laughter of little ones and family discussions around the dinner table and offered shelter through the trials and joys of life. It was also a place where the land provided for the family, and they took pride in the fruits of their labor.

The fields that once flourished with crops and livestock are now overgrown, and the house is held together by rusty nails and creeping vines. The people who took such pride in building this home and pouring their hearts into their farm never dreamed it would one day stand in this dilapidated state.

Where’s Your Treasure?

This home symbolizes the temporary nature of many things we put our time, energy, and resources into. Jesus spoke about this in Matthew 6:20-21 when He said, “But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves do not break in or steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”

It’s easy to get caught up in the pursuit of what the world tells us is valuable: wealth, possessions, status, or even the perfect home. We spend so much of our lives building these things up, believing they will provide us with security or happiness. However, just like the old abandoned house, the things of this world inevitably fade, break down, or are taken away.

Invest in Eternal Treasures

Jesus encourages us to invest in eternal treasures – the treasures in heaven. Unlike the material things we accumulate on earth, these treasures are not vulnerable to decay. They cannot be taken from us by time, weather, theft, or even death. When we prioritize the eternal – our relationship with God, the love we show to others, and the lives we touch – our hearts align with what truly matters.

This house and farm may no longer be a place where people gather or work the land, but it can still serve as a reminder to reflect on where we are placing our hopes. Are we building our lives on the shifting sands of earthly success, or are we rooted in the unshakable foundation of God’s promises?

A Prayer for Today:

Dear Lord, Thank You for this reminder of what truly matters. Please help us place our hope in Your eternal promises and not in the things of this world. Teach us to store up treasues in heaven and invest in what lasts forever - Your love, Your truth, and the lives of others. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Related Verses:

"But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." Matthew 6:33
"Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things." Colossians 3:2

Oct5

A New Day is Dawning: Finding Hope Amidst the Storm

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As we witness the heart-wrenching devastation left in the wake of Hurricane Helene across the Southeast, I’m reminded of the powerful promise found in Luke 1:78-79: “A new day is dawning: The sunrise from the heavens will break through in our darkness, and those who huddle in the night, those who sit in the shadow of death, will be able to rise and walk in the light, guided in the pathway of peace.”

In this time of unimaginable loss our hearts ache for those who have faced devastating losses. Families have lost loved ones and are left without homes, communities are shattered, and the emotional toll is unimaginable. In the face of such destruction, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by despair. Yet, as followers of Christ, we are called to be His hands and feet in times of need and bring hope to those in need of help.

God’s Presence in Difficult Times

To those who are hurting: Know that you are not alone in this darkness. Many stand with you, offering their support, prayers, and hands to help. Reach out and lean on your community. Let us carry one another’s burdens as we navigate this difficult journey together.

To those still facing the threat of danger, hold onto hope. Rescue is on the way. There are countless heroes among us—first responders, volunteers, and everyday citizens—who are dedicated to ensuring your safety. Trust that brighter days are ahead, and let the promise of a new dawn fill you with courage.

How Can You Help?

And to those not directly affected, you can make a difference, and your role is vital. Here are some ways you can be the hands and feet of Jesus in this crisis:

  • Pray: Start by praying for those affected by Hurricane Helene. Pray for their safety, for the rebuilding of their lives, and for peace in their hearts. Prayer is a powerful tool that can provide comfort and strength to those in need.
  • Give Financially: Consider donating to reputable organizations providing immediate relief efforts. Whether it’s food, shelter, or medical assistance, your contributions can help rebuild lives and restore hope.
  • Volunteer Your Time: Reach out to local churches or relief organizations. They may need volunteers to assist with food distribution, clean-up efforts, or shelter management. Your time and effort can make a significant impact.
  • Support Local Businesses: As communities begin to rebuild, local businesses will need our support more than ever. Choose to shop local, eat local, and support those who are trying to recover from this disaster.

Carry Each Other’s Burdens

In Galatians 6:2, we are reminded to “carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ.” Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those suffering from the aftermath of this hurricane.

As we respond to this crisis, let’s not forget that our actions, no matter how small, can reflect the love of Jesus. In the coming weeks and months, as recovery efforts continue, let’s stay committed to helping our neighbors. May we be His hands and feet, bringing hope, healing, and restoration to those in need.

A Prayer for Today: 

Dear Heavenly Father, 

In the wake of Hurricane Helene, we ask for Your comfort and peace to surround every individual and family affected by this storm. Please provide them with strength and hope as they navigate the challenges ahead. 

Lord, we pray for the first responders and relief workers who are tirelessly serving those in need. Grant them safety and wisdom as they work to bring aid and comfort. May Your love shine through their actions, bringing encouragement to those who are hurting. 

For those of us who are not directly affected, stir within our hearts a desire to help. Show us how we can be Your hands and feet in this time of crisis. Help us to respond with compassion, generosity, and a willingness to serve our neighbors. 

We trust in Your promises, knowing that You are a refuge and strength in times of trouble. May Your presence be felt in every home, every community, and every heart that is hurting. 

In Jesus' name, we pray, Amen.

Related Verses:

"God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble." Psalm 46:1
"So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." Isaiah 41:10

Oct4

Casting Your Cares: Trusting God with Your Burdens

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The peaceful art of fly fishing came to mind when I read 1 Peter 5:7, which tells us to “cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.” Standing knee-deep in a flowing river, the fly fisherman rhythmically casts his line far into the water with a practiced flick of the wrist. He doesn’t throw it haphazardly, nor does he hold back and keep it tucked away. He releases it fully into the river’s current, trusting that his carefully chosen fly will land in just the right spot.

A Tackle Box of Troubles: Cast Every Burden To God

Imagine if we placed all our worries, stress, anxiety, and troubles on a hook just like that fisherman and cast them to God. What if, instead of carrying our heavy load of concerns around with us, tucked away in a “tackle box” of fear and doubt, we actually let go? What if we trusted that when we cast our burdens into God’s capable hands, He would catch every single one?

The truth is, many of us hold on to our worries far too tightly. We tuck them away, thinking we can handle them on our own. But the problem is that our “tackle box” gets heavy. The distress piles up, and soon we’re carrying a burden we were never meant to bear.

Learning to Let Go: Trusting God’s Care

But God calls us to something different. He asks us to cast all our anxiety on Him—not just some of it, not just the things we think He can handle, but all of it. Why? Because He cares for us. His love is so vast, so steady, that no worry is too great or too small to be cast upon Him.

Much like the fisherman who trusts the flow of the river and the skill of his cast, we must trust God’s willingness to carry our burdens. When we cast our cares on Him, we aren’t throwing them into a void. We are entrusting them to a loving Father who is ready and able to take them from us.

The Promise of Peace When We Cast Our Cares to Him

Our burdens become lighter when we turn to Him in prayer and place them in His hands. We experience freedom and peace when we trust Him with the things that weigh us down. And just like the river continues to flow, God’s grace and care for us are constant, ready to meet us in every season of life.

So today, take a moment to look at what’s in your “tackle box.” What worries, anxieties, or fears are you holding on to? What’s weighing you down that you need to cast to God? Then, with faith, cast them into His hands and trust that He will carry them. In doing so, you will feel your heart become a little lighter.

God cares for you deeply, more than you can imagine. So cast away, and trust that He’s got you—and all your worries—covered.

Prayer for Today:

Dear Lord, Thank you for your unfailing love and care. Help us trust you enough to cast each of our cares and concerns at Your feet. Teach us how to release our worries instead of holding them tightly. When we struggle to let go, remind us of your promise that you are always with us, ready to carry our burdens. In Jesus' name, Amen

Related Verses:

  • “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4: 6 – 7 (NIV)
  • “Cast your cares on the Lord and He will sustain you; He will never let the righteous be shaken.” Psalm 55:22

Oct1

Let Your Light Shine

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You are the light for the whole world. A city built on top of a hill cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and puts it under a basket, but rather on a lampstand, and it gives light for all who are in the house. Make your light shine so that others will see the good you do and praise your Father in heaven. Matthew 5:14-16 CEV

You are the Light of the World

As followers of Christ, each of us carries a light within us – a reflection of God’s love and grace. In Matthew 5: 14 – 16, Jesus calls us to let that light shine brightly, like a beacon radiating His love and goodness to the world.

The Power of a Small Light

When a power outage strikes, total darkness can feel disorienting and frightening. Without light, we lose our sense of direction and stumble into obstacles we would normally avoid. But when someone lights a candle, its gentle glow immediately brings comfort and relief, illuminating the room around us. Similarly, we are called to be that kind of light in the spiritual darkness of the world around us. Even the smallest act of kindness, like a candle in the dark, can bring hope and lead others to the light of Christ. Through us, God’s light can reach those in desperate need of His love.

Your Light Can Make a Big Difference

Sometimes, our circumstances make us feel like our light is too dim to make a difference. But Jesus never asked us to shine with our own strength. He simply asks us to be willing vessels for His light. Even on our hardest days, when we feel weak or inadequate, His light can shine through us. And the beauty of His light is that it isn’t dependent upon our perfection but on our willingness to reflect Him.

Even when we feel small or insignificant, God’s light within us is powerful enough to bring hope, healing, and transformation to those around us. Remember, we aren’t shining on our own power – God is within us, empowering us to be His light to the world. Our lives can be a living testimony, pointing others to the hope, salvation, and joy found in Him.

How to Let Your Light Shine Today

So, how can we make our light shine today? It can be as simple as reaching out to a friend in need, showing patience in a frustrating situation, offering grace to someone who doesn’t expect it, or smiling at the cashier as you check out – despite the long wait. Each small act of love points others toward God and makes His goodness tangible. Let’s embrace these moments, knowing that every time we extend His love, we glorify our Father in heaven and draw others to Him.

Prayer

Dear Lord, Help us shine brightly for You, reflecting Your love and grace to others in all we do. Even when we feel weak or insignificant, remind us that Your light within us is powerful and can bring hope to those around us. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Related Verses:

"Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, 'I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.'” John 8:12
"That you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world." Philippians 2:15

Sep28

God’s Comfort in the Crisis: Even There, He Guides

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"even there Your hand will guide me, Your strength will support me." Psalm 139:10

Even in the ICU? Yes, even there.

Even in the fiercest storm? Yes, even in that place.

In the grips of unrelenting pain? The answer is still yes.

In the anguish of a shattered heart, in the loneliest hours of the darkest night, or under the weight of heartbreaking grief? Yes, even there.

In the long days of uncertainty and overwhelming worry? Yes, God’s hand remains steady.

Even there…?

Yes, even there.

Psalm 139:10 offers us the incredible assurance that no matter where we find ourselves – whether in life’s most triumphant moments or in its deepest valleys – God’s presence is unwavering. He is there to guide and support us, even in the places of profound pain and uncertainty.

When the path before you feels impossible to navigate, and your heart aches with exhaustion and doubt, you are not alone. His guiding hand is always with you, even in the darkest and most overwhelming circumstances. In the rubble of broken relationships or the quiet moments of despair when no one else can see, God sees you. He is already ahead of you, offering His comfort, guidance and strength.

Even in the sterile stillness of a doctor’s office, when the diagnosis feels like too much to bear or the future looks uncertain, God is present. He’s not just aware of your struggles – He’s actively working in the midst of them, holding you up and leading you forward, even when the way seems impossible.

Even if the outcome is uncertain or the road to healing long, God is the God of restoration. He can mend the deepest wounds. His presence doesn’t depend on the situation changing immediately – it rests in His constant, faithful love.

So, wherever you are today, no matter how heart-wrenching or isolating the moment feels, trust this: God is with you, guiding you through. He works within us, bringing peace and new strength, walking with us through the rubble – whether it leads to reconciliation or healing within ourselves.

There is no place too dark, no moment too painful for His love to reach. He is already waiting there to guide you, to offer His strength. Even there.

“Lord, in every season and place, remind us of Your constant presence. Whether we stand in joy or walk through pain, may we feel Your guiding hand and draw strength from Your love. Help us trust that You are with us, even in the hardest moments, and that Your grace will carry us through. Amen.”

Related Verses:

“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10

“The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” Deuteronomy 31:8

“Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” Psalm 23:4

Mar25

Our Global Reboot

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“Come away by yourselves to a || SECLUDED|| place and rest a little while” ~ Love, Jesus (Mark 6:31)

Perhaps God is using this world-wide pandemic for a global #reboot. People all over the earth who were ‘continually coming and going’ have halted their busy-ness and find themselves in a ‘secluded place.’ In the stillness of these moments, let’s take time to re-evaluate our priorities and realize what is truly important.

Over the last few weeks, we have had a front row seat to witness healthcare workers, National leaders, state leaders, local leaders, truckers, grocery workers, business leaders, ministers, athletes, celebrities and ordinary citizens come together like never before in history to work for a common goal. We are witnessing God’s command to “love your neighbor as yourself” in action!

When this #pandemic storm passes, let’s never go back to our “old normal.” Let’s use this experience with #covid_19 for a time to reset to a new normal where we eliminate the clutter in our schedules and embrace God’s command to love our neighbors.

“And you must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all your strength.’ The second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ No other commandment is greater than these.” Mark 12: 30 – 31

“We know that God makes all things work together for the good of those who love Him and are chosen to be a part of His plan.” Romans 8:28

 

Mar23

Pray with Your Eyes on God – Not Your Difficulties

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“Then Peter called to him: ‘Sir, if it is really you, tell me to come over to you, walking on the water.’ ‘All right,’ the Lord said, ‘come along!’ So Peter went over the side of the boat and walked on the water toward Jesus. But when he looked around at the high waves, he was terrified and began to sink. ‘Save me, Lord!’ he shouted.”

Matthew 14:28 – 30 TLB

We may not be called to walk on water, but we do walk through periods of tumultuous circumstances in life. Right now our world is battling the pandemic virus COVID-19, and we are being tossed about in uncharted waters of a global shutdown. Every time we turn on the television or scroll through social media, we are inundated with a flood of bad news. If we focus on the swirling waves of difficulties surrounding us, we can easily feel like we are being swallowed up by the surge of life’s problems.

Peter experienced a rather unusual example of God’s power when he went over the side of the boat and walked on the water toward Jesus. His faith in Jesus gave him the courage to throw his leg over the side of the boat and step out into the stormy sea.  However, his faith wavered when he realized what he was doing. Once he took his eyes off Jesus and focused on the crushing waves around him, he began to sink.

Like Peter, we often start out with great intentions. We may be “prayed up” and filled with holy confidence before we begin to face the day. But once we wade into the undulating sea of life, our faith begins to falter, and we sink in despair. We feel ill-equipped to navigate the storms that batter us. Yet this doesn’t mean that we have failed. When Peter’s faith faltered, he immediately reached out to Jesus. In his time of greatest fear, he called on his Savior to rescue him.

When you are afraid of the troubles that swirl around you, keep your eyes on Jesus’ power rather than your own inadequacies. Call out to Him for help, and He will rescue you from the stormy seas.

“We have to pray with our eyes on God ~ not on the difficulties.” ~ Oswald Chambers

“Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. “You of little faith,” he said “why did you doubt?” And when they climbed into the boat, the wind died down. Then those who were in the boat worshiped him, saying, “truly you are the Son of God.”

Matthew 14:31-33

Mar18

Choose Faith Over Fear

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Get vaccinated with a dose of Faith.

Read Psalm 91 aloud (below), and let the power of His words melt away your anxiety and fear. As you read the psalm, you can turn it into a powerful prayer to the Lord in behalf of you and your loved ones. God is greater than the hardships we face, and no problem is too great for God…not even COVID-19!

While He has us in a world-wide Holy Time-Out, you can replace panic with peace by spending time feasting on the soul food of His Good News, not the constant social feed of bad news.

God is teaching us to trust in HIM — Not the economy, not the stock market, not your job or your bank account.

Put your faith in the One who has overcome the world and rest in the shadow of His wings.

Choose Faith over Fear!

Psalm 91 ~

Whoever rests in the shadow of the Most High God
will be kept safe by the Mighty One.
 I will say about the Lord,
“He is my place of safety.
He is like a fort to me.
He is my God. I trust in him.”

He will certainly save you from hidden traps
    and from deadly sickness.
He will cover you with his wings.
Under the feathers of his wings you will find safety.
He is faithful. He will keep you safe like a shield or a tower.
You won’t have to be afraid of the terrors that come during the night.
You won’t have to fear the arrows that come at you during the day.
You won’t have to be afraid of the sickness that attacks in the darkness.
    You won’t have to fear the plague that destroys at noon.
A thousand may fall dead at your side.
Ten thousand may fall near your right hand.
But no harm will come to you.
You will see with your own eyes
how God punishes sinful people.

Suppose you say, “The Lord is the one who keeps me safe.”
Suppose you let the Most High God be like a home to you.
 Then no harm will come to you.
No terrible plague will come near your tent.
The Lord will command his angels
to take good care of you.
They will lift you up in their hands.
Then you won’t trip over a stone.
You will walk on lions and cobras.
You will crush mighty lions and poisonous snakes.

The Lord says, “I will save the one who loves me.
I will keep him safe, because he trusts in me.
 He will call out to me, and I will answer him.
I will be with him in times of trouble.
I will save him and honor him.
 I will give him a long and full life.
I will save him.”