365 Days of Prayer for Grief and Loss E-Book

BroadStreet Publishing Group LLC

• Herausgeber: BroadStreet Publishing Group, LLC
• Kategorie: Religion und Spiritualität
• Serie: 365 Days of Prayer
• Sprache: Englisch
• Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2020

Seitenzahl: 373

Beschreibung

Whether you have made prayer a habit for many years or this is your first prayer devotional, inspiration and comfort is waiting for you in the daily prayers written here. Prayer is a conversation with God. You don't need to use fancy words or recite long passages of Scripture. Just talk to God. Open your heart. Tell him about your depth of loss and express your grief in whatever way you need to in this moment. Some days your prayers may be filled with grief, some days with hope, and some with need. Just lay your heart and your prayers at the Father's feet and wait for his compassionate response. God is the best source of comfort you will find. He knows your heart and he is full of compassion for you. Let his strength be yours as you cry out to him. He is listening to every word you say.

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BroadStreet Publishing Group, LLC.

Savage, Minnesota, USA

Broadstreetpublishing.com

365 Days of Prayer for Grief and Loss

© 2020 BroadStreet Publishing®

978-1-4245-6097-4

978-1-4245-6098-1 (ebook)

Prayers composed by Sara Perry.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law.

Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked (NIV) are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. zondervan.com. The “NIV” and “New International Version” are trademarks registered in the United States Patent and Trademark Office by Biblica, Inc.™ Scripture quotations marked (NCV) are taken from the New Century Version®. Copyright © 2005 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked (NASB) are taken from the New American Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission. Lockman.org. Scripture quotations marked (NRSV) are taken from the New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright 1989, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked (ESV) are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked (NKJV) are taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked (TPT) are taken from The Passion Translation®. Copyright © 2018 by Passion & Fire Ministries. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

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“Pray to me, and I will answer you. I will tell you important secrets you have never heard before.”

JEREMIAH 33:3 NCV

Contents

Introduction

January

January 1: Eternal Comfort

January 2: Beyond the Pain

January 3: Called His Own

January 4: Empowered to Hope

January 5: Look to Him

January 6: Held by Love

January 7: Help at Hand

January 8: Solid Ground

January 9: Shield around Me

January 10: Light of Love

January 11: Confident Hope

January 12: So Much Grace

January 13: Come Again

January 14: Learning to Rest

January 15: Rooted in Goodness

January 16: Unload the Burdens

January 17: Even More

January 18: Positioned for Rescue

January 19: Ask Again

January 20: My Sustainer

January 21: He Can Take It

January 22: Help Is Here

January 23: No Need to Despair

January 24: Radiant Hope

January 25: Love Pours In

January 26: Limitless Love

January 27: Always Good

January 28: New Life Coming

January 29: Everything I Need

January 30: Hope Is Here

January 31: Love Covers Everything

February

February 1: He Sees Me

February 2: Never-ending Help

February 3: Everlasting Life

February 4: Met By Mercy

February 5: Not to Worry

February 6: Calmed by Comfort

February 7: Steady Love

February 8: All I Need

February 9: Deeply Rooted

February 10: Not Done Yet

February 11: Led by Love

February 12: Perfect Father

February 13: Daybreak Is Coming

February 14: Satisfied Hope

February 15: Forge a Path

February 16: Eagerly Waiting

February 17: More than Imagined

February 18: Sustained by Peace

February 19: How Long

February 20: Constant and True

February 21: Wait on Him

February 22: Constant Companion

February 23: Father of Compassion

February 24: Patient Trust

February 25: Freedom Is Mine

February 26: Not Finished Yet

February 27: Never Alone

February 28: Still There Is Hope

March

March 1: Wonderful News

March 2: Lifted Up

March 3: Dwelling Place

March 4: In His Sight

March 5: Freed by Love

March 6: I Am Covered

March 7: Renewed Strength

March 8: My Portion

March 9: Immeasurable Goodness

March 10: Safe Space

March 11: Wisdom’s Path

March 12: Not the End

March 13: Held Together

March 14: Living Hope

March 15: Unwavering Love

March 16: All Access Pass

March 17: All Things with Love

March 18: My Strength

March 19: Help Me

March 20: A Higher Perspective

March 21: Revelation’s Light

March 22: Forever Faithful

March 23: My Refuge

March 24: Hidden in Love

March 25: Tower of Strength

March 26: My Caretaker

March 27: Fighting for Me

March 28: Entwined

March 29: Promises Kept

March 30: Healing for My Heart

March 31: My Firm Hope

April

April 1: Home in Him

April 2: Champion Defender

April 3: Restored by Peace

April 4: Not Far Away

April 5: Rock of Salvation

April 6: Make It Clear

April 7: Called by Divine Love

April 8: Overcome with Peace

April 9: A Better Gift

April 10: Always with Me

April 11: Can’t Stay Away

April 12: A Gentle Reminder

April 13: Hopeful

April 14: Set Free

April 15: Never Left Alone

April 16: Source of Healing

April 17: Lasting Appeal

April 18: Until the End

April 19: Through Everything

April 20: Into His Heart

April 21: Something that Lasts

April 22: Face like Flint

April 23: Love Meets Me

April 24: Light of Wisdom

April 25: Always Reliable

April 26: Never Forgotten

April 27: All Seen

April 28: Great Acceptance

April 29: He Is Powerful

April 30: Worth My Trust

May

May 1: Don’t Turn Away

May 2: Comforting Words

May 3: Hand of Mercy

May 4: Feet of Jesus

May 5: Always Learning

May 6: Great Expectation

May 7: Good Father

May 8: More Mercy

May 9: Carried by Grace

May 10: In Perfect Faithfulness

May 11: Kindness Given

May 12: Calm My Soul

May 13: Truth that Remains

May 14: Peace at Every Turn

May 15: Secret Strength

May 16: Spirit Satisfaction

May 17: Filled with Kindness

May 18: Look No Further

May 19: Unchanging One

May 20: Covered by Covenant

May 21: Priceless Treasure

May 22: Everything Is Covered

May 23: Refreshed

May 24: Watched Over

May 25: I Look to You

May 26: Focused Attention

May 27: Keep Going

May 28: Choose Forgiveness

May 29: A Better Way

May 30: God’s Goodness

May 31: Compassion for All

June

June 1: Strength for Today

June 2: Alive in Christ

June 3: Tender Mercy

June 4: What Matters Most

June 5: Coming Back Home

June 6: Holy Help

June 7: Heard

June 8: Shining Star

June 9: Endless Kindness

June 10: Made Complete

June 11: No More Walls

June 12: Overflowing Affection

June 13: Greater Reality

June 14: Victory

June 15: He Is Coming

June 16: A Thousand Generations

June 17: So Good

June 18: Yes You Are

June 19: Led by Truth

June 20: Hemmed In

June 21: Miracles of Mercy

June 22: God’s Terms

June 23: Give Thanks

June 24: Good Gifts

June 25: Keep Me Close

June 26: Gracious God

June 27: Abundance

June 28: Never Abandoned

June 29: Resurrection Life

June 30: Come Close

July

July 1: He Is Better

July 2: Constant Comfort

July 3: Holy Exchange

July 4: Way of Peace

July 5: Drink Deep

July 6: Marvelous Mercy

July 7: Ready Relief

July 8: Wonderful Wisdom

July 9: You See Me

July 10: It Is Time

July 11: No Fear

July 12: He Still Heals

July 13: My Life’s Song

July 14: Joyful Freedom

July 15: At All Times

July 16: My Defense

July 17: Ancient Path

July 18: New Levels

July 19: He Knows

July 20: Encouragement for Today

July 21: Not in Vain

July 22: Over and Over

July 23: Come Again

July 24: Unimaginable Power

July 25: Spirit Thoughts

July 26: Always Known

July 27: Abundant Provision

July 28: Wholeness in Him

July 29: Life Forever

July 30: Seeds Sown

July 31: Out of My Hands

August

August 1: Taken Care Of

August 2: Strong in Joy

August 3: Generations of Mercy

August 4: Steady Support

August 5: How Much More

August 6: Unifying Love

August 7: Consider It

August 8: Persevere

August 9: Once Again

August 10: Pure Motives

August 11: Every Morning

August 12: A Season

August 13: Rejoicing in Comfort

August 14: My Protection

August 15: Timing

August 16: More Than Able

August 17: Not Forgotten

August 18: Discernment

August 19: Growing

August 20: Pressing On

August 21: Greater Love

August 22: Made New

August 23: Source

August 24: Good Food

August 25: Greater Understanding

August 26: Not My Way

August 27: Victorious Life

August 28: Leader of my Life

August 29: No More Pain

August 30: Follow Through

August 31: Architect

September

September 1: Patience

September 2: Giver of Life

September 3: Unshakable

September 4: Be Open

September 5: Treasure

September 6: Compassionate Heart

September 7: Law of Love

September 8: It’s Certain

September 9: Deep Springs

September 10: Rest in Hope

September 11: Forever Good

September 12: Tenacity

September 13: Lean on Others

September 14: Fullness of Life

September 15: Vulnerability

September 16: In the Meantime

September 17: Pursue Peace

September 18: Reliability Matters

September 19: Invitation

September 20: Heavenly Citizens

September 21: Lasting Peace

September 22: Passionate Love

September 23: Not a Surprise

September 24: Humble Heart

September 25: Closer

September 26: Submitted

September 27: Sharpened

September 28: Eyes Open

September 29: A Way Prepared

September 30: Even So

October

October 1: Better than Life

October 2: Encouragement

October 3: Only One

October 4: Qualified

October 5: Higher Thoughts

October 6: Holy Union

October 7: Untold Secrets

October 8: Silent Support

October 9: Trust Him

October 10: Perfect Power

October 11: Proven Character

October 12: Tended

October 13: Tapestry of Grace

October 14: His Work

October 15: Nothing Between

October 16: Spirit Power

October 17: Saturated

October 18: Delivered Again

October 19: Led to Life

October 20: Have Mercy

October 21: No One Else

October 22: Shared Burden

October 23: Test It Out

October 24: Counseled by Wisdom

October 25: In Process

October 26: Eternal Life

October 27: Capable

October 28: Mandate

October 29: Continual Surrender

October 30: Justice

October 31: Worn Down

November

November 1: Overflowing Mercy

November 2: Transformed

November 3: He Hears

November 4: Clothed in Love

November 5: It Belongs to Him

November 6: Medicine for the Heart

November 7: At a Loss

November 8: Real Rest

November 9: Covenant Promise

November 10: Abundant Goodness

November 11: On His Mind

November 12: Ready Help

November 13: Chosen

November 14: Sought and Found

November 15: Stick It Out

November 16: Draw Near

November 17: My Praise

November 18: Move My Heart

November 19: Here’s My Heart

November 20: If You Would

November 21: Save Me

November 22: Holy Helper

November 23: Cheered On

November 24: Big Picture

November 25: Sound Mind

November 26: Keep Asking

November 27: Better Desire

November 28: Satisfied

November 29: Goodness in Store

November 30: Governed by Grace

December

December 1: Peace Here

December 2: Welcomed In

December 3: An Open Book

December 4: Today

December 5: Highest Law

December 6: Abide

December 7: Get Back Up

December 8: Yours

December 9: Perfect Pattern

December 10: Free from Guilt

December 11: Courageous

December 12: Growth

December 13: Still Trust

December 14: Healed

December 15: Mindset

December 16: Motivation

December 17: Blessing

December 18: Father’s Help

December 19: No Comparison

December 20: Gift of God

December 21: A Father’s Compassion

December 22: Humble Love

December 23: Perfect Timing

December 24: Wonderful Counselor

December 25: Messiah

December 26: Overflow

December 27: Forgiveness

December 28: Great Confidence

December 29: Making Things Right

December 30: Wisdom’s Instruction

December 31: A Fresh Start

Introduction

Whether you have made prayer a habit for many years or this is your first prayer devotional, inspiration and comfort is waiting for you in the daily prayers written here.

Prayer is a conversation with God. You don’t need to use fancy words or recite long passages of Scripture. Just talk to God. Open your heart. Tell him about your depth of loss and express your grief in whatever way you need to in this moment.

Some days your prayers may be filled with grief, some days with hope, and some with need. Just lay your heart and your prayers at the Father’s feet and wait for his compassionate response.

God is the best source of comfort you will find. He knows your heart and he is full of understanding for every situation. Let his strength be yours as you cry out to him. He is listening to every word you say.

As you develop a habit of prayer, think about this:

PRAISE

Begin by telling God how wonderful he is. Focus on which of his many attributes you are grateful for.

REPENTANCE

Before you present your needs to God, pause. Take a moment to examine your heart. If God reveals any unconfessed sin, bring it before him and ask for forgiveness.

ASK

What do you need from your Father in heaven today? Ask him boldly; he is waiting to grant you the desires of your heart.

YIELD

Ask as if it will be done and yield to his will. Acknowledge he may know something you don’t or have something even better in mind for you. Trust and accept whatever answer you receive.

January

You will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you.

JEREMIAH 29:12 NIV

JANUARY 1

Eternal Comfort

May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and by his grace gave us eternal comfort and a wonderful hope, comfort you and strengthen you.

2 THESSALONIANS 2:16-17 NLT

God, as I face this new year, I am completely dependent on you. You are the lifter of my head, and the only true comfort that settles my anxious heart. When I struggle to hope for the future, you are the hand that steadies me and reassures me that you are here right now. You meet me in every moment, the messy ones and the ordinary. Meet me again today and surround me with your comforting presence.

Lead me on in your love, Lord, as I cling to you. You are the hope of my heart and everything that truly matters. Whatever comes in this next year, I ask that you continue to guide me in your kindness and the nearness of your peaceful presence. Strengthen me with your love!

What can you give to God today?

JANUARY 2

Beyond the Pain

This light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal.

2 CORINTHIANS 4:17-18 ESV

God over all, I look to you today. I need your help so much more than I can even express. I feel my strength being drained as I wade through the waters of loss. I feel like I could be swept away by the tides of grief that keep rising around me. Lord, don’t let go of me. Don’t remove your steady grip from my life. Hold onto me, even when I cannot hold onto you.

Give me eyes to see you in the here and now. I need to know your nearness; even in the pain, you are with me. You promise to never leave me—that’s my hope! I trust that even though I can’t understand what you are doing in the midst of my suffering, you are at work, making something beautiful out of the ashes.

Where can you see God’s goodness in your life?

JANUARY 3

Called His Own

The LORD will not abandon His people on account of His great name, because the LORD has been pleased to make you a people for Himself.

1 SAMUEL 12:22 NASB

Lord, you have called me by name and I am yours. Even in the midst of suffering knowing that you are my perfect Father fills me with peace. You meet me in my mess every time; I don’t have to hide from you! Thank you for loving me so completely. I find hope in the promise that you will never abandon me or leave me to sort things out on my own.

When I struggle to see the light in the middle of the darkness of my circumstances, draw closer, Holy Spirit. Surround me with the embrace of your love and whisper your comforting words straight to my heart again. Like a mother’s lullaby soothes her child, so lull my heart into peace as I lean into you. Calm my heart again in your presence.

How would you face today differently if you were absolutely convinced that God is for you?

JANUARY 4

Empowered to Hope

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

ROMANS 15:13 NRSV

Mover of mountains, you are the only one that can bring life out of death. Your resurrection power is the same today as it was when Jesus rose from the grave and defeated death. I find my hope in you, God, who never changes! When I can’t make sense of the chaos that is stirring around me, I will look to you. Be my perfect peace that settles the anxiety of my heart.

You are the one who guides me through the darkest night; you are more reliable than the sunrise, and I won’t lose heart when you are my constant companion. Even if my courage wanes and my confidence is called into question, you don’t withdraw and you don’t change your mind. Thank you for your constant presence, Lord.

What are you needing fresh hope for today?

JANUARY 5

Look to Him

Be of good courage, And He shall strengthen your heart, All you who hope in the LORD.

PSALM 119:76 NKJV

Lord, I open my heart again to you today. I know you have the strength I need for whatever comes my way. I’m worn down and tired of relying on my own capacity. My resources are tapped! But you, oh Lord, are never-ending in power. You are flawless in your ability to extend mercy, and you never withhold from those who ask for your help. I know that when I come to you, you never turn me away. You are a loving, welcoming Father and you are so incredibly patient in kindness.

Here I am again, Lord, asking for your help. Thank you for access to your heart that never runs dry. You don’t dole out your compassion in small doses. You always give out of abundance, filling to overflowing. I stand under the waterfall of your love today—wash over me and refresh my soul again.

How can you redirect your attention when you are overwhelmed?

JANUARY 6

Held by Love

The LORD is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed.

PSALM 34:18 NLT

Merciful Father, you see me in my brokenness. When I have no strength to even call out to you, you draw near to me in my heartbreak. I have tasted and seen your goodness in my life, and I believe that I will see it again. But for now, in the depths of pain and grief, you come close and surround me with the covering of your love. I trust that you will not let me be crushed by the weight of this anguish.

Keep me together, Lord, when I feel like I am breaking at the seams. Center me in your kindness. I remember that you don’t have any hidden agendas; you love because it is your very nature to do so. I won’t hide myself from you or keep you at a distance today. Come in close.

When you are overwhelmed by sadness, do you believe that God’s presence is yours in the midst of it?

JANUARY 7

Help at Hand

Every time they cried out to you in their despair, you were faithful to deliver them; you didn’t disappoint them.

PSALM 22:5 TPT

Faithful One, you are the same God who delivered the Israelites from the hands of the Egyptians. You led them out of their captivity into freedom. When they wandered the desert, you were with them at all times in tangible ways. You are with me now. As your child, I know that you will not abandon me or leave me alone to fight my battles. You always have a way out, even when deliverance seems impossible.

Right now, I can’t see the way out of this suffering. I don’t know the way forward. But I do know that you are with me, and you are guiding me. Lead me in your wisdom, and when you speak, may I be quick to listen and put your words into action. You always prove faithful—every single time. I remind myself of your greatness today. Fill my mind with your revelation and my heart with faith to follow you.

Can you recall a time when God answered your prayers?

JANUARY 8

Solid Ground

He lifted me out of the pit of despair, out of the mud and the mire.

He set my feet on solid ground and steadied me as I walked along.

PSALM 40:2 NLT

Father, in this chaotic world full of suffering and trouble, you are the firm foundation that cannot be shaken. Your Word is as true as it ever was. Your faithfulness is unmatched, and your track record is perfect. Where I have felt stuck, come in your power and lift me out. Where I have fallen into cycles of despair and coping strategies that do not serve you or me well, set me on the path of your love.

Steady me in your love, Lord. I know I cannot fight my way out of quicksand; instead, you are the one who reaches down and lifts me out. You set my feet on solid ground and lead me with your steady hand. I won’t give up hope as long as you don’t let go of me.

What are you certain of in life?

JANUARY 9

Shield around Me

You, O LORD, are a shield about me, my glory, and the lifter of my head.

PSALM 3:3 ESV

Lord, when the arrows of uncontrollable circumstances pierce my armor and I am left with wounds that I cannot tend to, I need you to be attentive. You see what I can’t and what others overlook. You see the end from the beginning, and you don’t miss a detail. I trust that you will heal every injury and restore every broken part of me. Only you can do that, and I have to believe that you will.

You are so much better than any other love I’ve ever known. You constantly reach out, check in, and extend your love toward me. I am never found outside of your compassion because it completely covers me. When I am overwhelmed and I struggle to see what you are doing, I will lean into the love that is here with me in every moment. Thank you for your consistent pursuit of my heart.

Where do you see God’s pursuit of you showing up in your life?

JANUARY 10

Light of Love

He has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love.

COLOSSIANS 1:13 NKJV

Father of compassion, I am so grateful that you never turn away from those who call on you. As I offer you the mess of my life—the sadness, the confusion, and the unbearable parts—you don’t look at me with disapproval in your eyes. You do not wince with disgust or shame me for the realities of my brokenness. Rather, you wash over me with the love of your presence. You remove my shame and heal my pain.

There is no situation too grave or circumstance too overwhelming for you. You are the deliverer. You are my deliverer. I will be found in you, for you have rushed to meet me and you cover everything. Every failure, sorrow, disappointment and longing is enveloped by your love. I cannot escape you. Why would I try to when you are life itself?

What can you bring into the light of God’s love today?

JANUARY 11

Confident Hope

Faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.

HEBREWS 11:1 NIV

Holy One, I have heard of your goodness and the ways in which you treat your children. You are kind, tenderhearted, and patient in compassion. You are powerful beyond measure, healing the sick and raising the dead. You are relentless in your rescue, always meeting those who call on you with your powerful defense. You don’t turn away a curious heart, and you never require what can’t be given.

God, you are perfect in love; meet me with the power of your presence. Change my life so I will never be the same again. I don’t want to follow an ideology. Come closer, Lord, and transform me from the inside out. Let my vague optimism be turned to confident hope as you reveal yourself in my life. I trust that you won’t leave me to endlessly wonder. You are better than that.

Is your faith rooted in a system or in the nature and person of God?

JANUARY 12

So Much Grace

From his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace.

JOHN 1:16 NRSV

God of goodness, you are full of kindness today. I come to you with all of my heavy baggage; this is the time to trade it in for your mercy that brings freedom. I won’t hold back anything, for I know that what you give in return is so much better. I’m so grateful that there isn’t a limit to your love; I need never hesitate to ask you for anything because you always freely give out of the abundance of your kingdom.

When the storms of life are raging and I have no strength of my own, I come to you, Lord. On the darkest days, your light shines as brightly as it ever did. You are the source of all goodness. Why would I try to find satisfaction anywhere else? Here I am, Lord; fill me again with your powerful presence. In you is everything I could ever need.

What heavy burden can you give to the Lord today?

JANUARY 13

Come Again

My life’s strength melts away with grief and sadness; come strengthen me and encourage me with your words.

PSALM 119:28 TPT

Lord, you see the heaviness of my heart and the grief that saps every reserve of strength. When I have nothing to give, you don’t require more from me. You come in close with your tender presence, and you surround me with your peace. In the middle of my loss, you sit with me. You are the hand that holds me together when I am falling apart.

My attempts in life to accomplish things with my own abilities fade quickly when the reality of loss hits me like a tsunami. My inner world is in wreckage—I don’t even know where to look! But there you are, right in the middle of my chaos, somehow bringing order with your peaceful presence. I don’t need to do anything but rest in you right now. Come again, Lord, and hold me close in your love.

When you are overcome with sorrow, do you feel the need to fix it, or do you invite God into it with you?

JANUARY 14

Learning to Rest

For God alone, O my soul, wait in silence, for my hope is from him.

PSALM 62:5 ESV

Lord, in the silence, I find that the questions rise more easily to the surface. The doubts come out of hiding and creep into my consciousness. I want to shut them out and pretend they aren’t there, but what good would that do? Today, I won’t be afraid of what the stillness reveals. I know you see it all anyway. You are not surprised by the thoughts and feelings lurking in the cracks of my heart.

You, God, are full of wisdom. In your wisdom, speak to the unanswered questions that are laid bare in the field of my heart today. I know you won’t shame me or turn away in disappointment. You are such a patient, loving Father; you are not disturbed by my uncertainty. I will let the unknown surface and rest in the mystery of your presence changing everything. May hope arise as you meet me here.

When you sit in silence, what comes to the surface of your mind?

JANUARY 15

Rooted in Goodness

I would have despaired unless I had believed that I would see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living.

PSALM 27:13 NASB

Good Father, you are quick to come to the aid of your children. When I cry out for help, you don’t delay in meeting me right where I am. Though the weight of grief comes in waves, I am still anchored in the stability of your strong love in every tumultuous moment.

Your compassion doesn’t despair at my circumstances; your length of love isn’t diminished by my heartbreak. I know that in the darkest of nights, you are my constant companion—both when I can sense you and when I can’t. You will not leave me to waste away in the dead of night; you provide everything I need to sustain me, and in the morning I will see that your goodness has never left me for a moment. Encourage my heart with your kindness while I wait for the sun to rise again.

When all seems lost, what are you left with?

JANUARY 16

Unload the Burdens

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”

MATTHEW 11:28-29 NIV

Merciful God, you are quick to respond in love. You surprise me with your compassion over and over again as I come to you with my weighty burdens. You never tire of taking my heaviness and giving me your light burden of peace. Partnered with you, I find that you always do the heavy lifting, and you teach me how to live in the tension of peace in the middle of hardship.

I desperately need the rest that you offer, Lord. I don’t want to keep trudging on in my own feeble strength. Your way is so much better! I offer you all that has been weighing me down, and I connect my heart to yours, knowing you are always gentle and kind in your leadership.

What has been keeping you from rest? Can you give it over to the Lord today?

JANUARY 17

Even More

God gives us even more grace, as the Scripture says, “God is against the proud, but he gives grace to the humble.”

JAMES 4:6 NCV

Lord over all, you are the source of everything I need for every situation I face. I know that whatever I come up against is not a surprise to you. I am covered by your loyal love in every moment. You are faithful to supply all that I have need of; in your persistent presence, I find the strength to keep going and the wisdom to step away when it’s necessary.

You see my areas of lack, right now in this moment. Holy Spirit, meet me with the abundance of your peace. Empower me and bring clarity to my mind when confusion settles in like a fog. Burn away the mist of misunderstanding with the light of your revelation. You always know exactly how to move and what to say at the right moment. I trust you to do it again, Lord.

What do you need from the Lord today?

JANUARY 18

Positioned for Rescue

I’m exhausted! My life is spent with sorrow, my years with sighing and sadness. Because of all these troubles, I have no more strength.

My inner being is so weak and frail.

PSALM 31:10 TPT

God, don’t turn away from me in my pain. You see the depths of my anguish, and your Word says that you care for me. Come to my rescue and lift me out of the pit of despair that I cannot get out of on my own. I have tried to be better, to think more positively, and to change my habits. All of these things are like Band-Aids thrown on a seeping gash. They cannot save me!

You, Lord, are faithful to come through. I have watched you do it before, and I have to believe you will do it again. Come rescue me and heal my broken heart. Bind up the wounds and transform this suffering into the fertile ground of your redemption work. You are the miracle worker—you are my rescuer. Come again, Lord, and do not delay.

How have you seen God’s rescue in your life?

JANUARY 19

Ask Again

Oh that I might have my request, and that God would fulfill my hope.

JOB 6:8 ESV

God, I rely on you in every season. Granted, it’s easier to trust you when all seems to be going right in my life, but that doesn’t mean that you change when my circumstances do. You never waver in love or change your mind about me. I can’t even comprehend that truth, but I want it to sink deep into my heart until it’s a profound knowing rather than a wish.

I know that you don’t grow tired of my asking, even when I do. So today, I come to you with all that’s in my heart; I won’t hold anything back. You know the depths of my soul, and I give you access to every part of me. I want to be transformed by your relentless love in every area of my life. Fill me again, God, with your mercy. In the waiting, give me hope to hold onto.

What is pressing on your heart today?

JANUARY 20

My Sustainer

Preserve me, O God, for in you I put my trust.

PSALM 16:1 NKJV

Father, I cannot pretend that I am capable of lifting myself out of the destructive cycles I so often find myself in. You see where they originated, and you know how to not only preserve me within them, but to break the power of them altogether. I won’t despair at my circumstances, knowing that you are strong to save and dedicated to restore all that is broken.

You are the only one I hope in, for you hold the key to every problem. I don’t have to try harder; I need only rest in you. So today, Lord, quiet my soul with your perfect peace. Flood my mind with your wisdom that is full of clarity. You are everything I rely on, and in you there is no lack. Sustainer, hold me together in your unfailing love today and every day.

Where in your life do you need God’s power to break through?

JANUARY 21

He Can Take It

Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.

1 PETER 5:7 NRSV

Holy One, I come to you today with every worry, burden, and anxiety. Some days they are quieter than others; other days the noise level is too loud to hear anything else. I know that I don’t need to carry the weight of these on my own, and I am not responsible to mitigate every possible outcome in life. There are innumerable unknowns, but not one is a mystery to you!

Lord, you see the end from the beginning and every moment in between. Why would I continue to expend energy on assumptive possibilities when you offer me the peace of your all-knowing presence? I may not know what tomorrow holds, but you do. I will trust you, Lord; you can have all my worries! Give me the confidence that comes with your nearness. I know that you are with me.

Can you rest in the knowledge that God sees what you cannot?

JANUARY 22

Help Is Here

From the depths of despair, O LORD, I call for your help.

PSALM 130:1 NLT

God my help, you are the one I look to when everything is crumbling around me. You are my sustainer in the ease of sunny days and my rescuer when the sky turns dark and I can’t see a way out. I need you more than I can express with words; thankfully, you never fail to show up in power. Come through for me again, Lord. You are my only hope.

In the mess of my current reality, I rely on you to be my help and my rescue. I take this opportunity to invite you into this very moment. Holy Spirit, come close with the peace of your presence and settle my anxious nerves. I am desperate for you, but you see that clearly, don’t you? Help, Lord—when that’s all I can muster to cry out, there you are with your willing support.

How do you need God’s help today?

JANUARY 23

No Need to Despair

“Don’t worry, because I am with you. Don’t be afraid, because I am your God. I will make you strong and will help you; I will support you with my right hand that saves you.”

ISAIAH 41:10 NCV

Lord, you are the support I need in the struggles of life. You hold me tight, making sure I’m not beyond your grip. You lift me up when I stumble and you set me straight when I am turned around. When worries threaten my peace, remind me again of your steadfast love that never changes.

You are more faithful than the most loyal lover and more attentive than the most involved mother. You are perfect in your leadership and your intentions are as pure as your love. I could not find a better comfort in anyone else, try as I might. Draw near to me today with the power of your presence and let hope break through the soil of my heart once again.

What worries can you give to God today?

JANUARY 24

Radiant Hope

The Lord alone is our radiant hope and we trust in him with all our hearts. His wrap-around presence will strengthen us.

PSALM 33:22 TPT

Lord, when I look at my life and see gaping holes where loved ones once stood, I rely on your strength to face the grief. I know that you will not let me be lost to the sorrow that fills my heart, and you will bring me the comfort I need in every bout of weeping. In the dark night of mourning, you are still present in your radiant goodness. You bring hope in the light of your presence, and I will find strength in that place.

Right now, I ask for you to fill my heart with your peace that passes understanding. You remain constant in the chaos and in the calm; when my heart starts to wonder whether I’ll make it through this, come in close with your liquid love and hold me together.

Can you choose to trust God again with your healing?

JANUARY 25

Love Pours In

Hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.

ROMANS 5:5 ESV

God over all, I come to your waterfall of grace today. Wash over me with your kindness and remind me of the steady goodness of your nature. Your unfailing love is my source of strength for every moment. I cannot go on without you. Fill me again to overflowing, that I may have something to give others today. I am so easily depleted these days, so I will come to you all the more, turning my heart and my attention over to your merciful gaze over and over again.

Do not withhold your fierce affection from me today. I need you more than words can express. Holy Spirit, wrap around me the way water envelops matter, leaving no part of me untouched by your peace. You are my source and my strength; no other resource even comes close to your generous grace.

Will you take a moment right now to let God’s waterfall of love wash over you?

JANUARY 26

Limitless Love

Your lovingkindness, O LORD, extends to the heavens, Your faithfulness reaches to the skies.

PSALM 36:5 NASB

Faithful One, as I recall your kindness in my life—every answered prayer and hope fulfilled—hope breaks through the soil of my heart again. Even in the waiting for your help in my present struggles, I can find your very-present grace in the here and now. Open my eyes to see how big your love is. May my heart expand as your mercy meets me.

As I look to the heavens, my awareness shifts to the greatness of the world around me. My focus is often too small; I can’t see the bigger picture when I am focused on one small part of my life. As I lift my eyes, fill my mind with the clarity that a broader perspective brings. Your love knows no limits, and neither can my heart drain your abundant grace. Expand my horizons as I look beyond my limited scope of understanding.

When was the last time you took the time to look up and soak in the vastness of the world around you?

JANUARY 27

Always Good

The LORD is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him.

LAMENTATIONS 3:25 NIV

Good Father, what a relief it is to my heart that you are readily available whenever I look for you. You do not hide yourself behind thick walls or make yourself the prize at the finish line of an obstacle course meant to test my resolve. When I call, you answer. When I look for you, you are easily found. Your wisdom is not kept in a vault out of my reach or above my position. You freely give your perspective and understanding to those who seek it.

I have so many questions that I’ve been keeping on the backburner of my mind. Today, I choose to be open with you about everything. You have shown yourself trustworthy and endlessly kind. I know that this time, as with all the others, I will be met by your goodness. May my heart not be deceived by the lie that you are not interested in me; when your presence fills my being, I know that it is with you that I belong, just as I am. You are good, God.

How has God revealed his goodness to you?

JANUARY 28

New Life Coming

To all who mourn in Israel, he will give a crown of beauty for ashes, a joyous blessing instead of mourning, festive praise instead of despair.

In their righteousness, they will be like great oaks that the LORD has planted for his own glory.

ISAIAH 61:3 NLT

Restorer, you always have a plan for renewal. You take what is dead and bring life out of it; you never leave me to waste away in despair. You come with your life-giving presence and breathe fresh power into every area that seems hopeless.

Here is my heart, Lord; my life is laid before you like an open book. Come with the power of your presence and do what only you can do—what I can’t even imagine to ask for! In my suffering, I know this can’t be the end. In my grief, I trust that joy will come in the morning. You feed my soul with the sustenance of your love, and the fruit that appears is more satisfying than I could ever imagine.

What desolate areas of your life need God’s restoration?

JANUARY 29

Everything I Need

“The LORD is my portion,” says my soul, “therefore I will hope in him.”

LAMENTATIONS 3:24 ESV

Great sustainer, you hold me together in the incubator of your love. You heal every broken part of me and restore what was lost. Though there is so much in life that is outside of my control, there is nothing that is outside of yours. I know that you, Lord, are not a dictator and that you don’t rule with strict law and punishment. There is grace to learn and grow, to make mistakes and to change my mind. You are gracious in your guidance, and you have an abundance of wisdom to give to all who seek after it.

When I look at my life and see lack, I know that it is an opportunity to wait on your provision. You have everything I need, and you won’t let me waste away without any options. You are so much better than that. In the drought of life, when there never seems to be enough, you are still there. Your heart of generosity doesn’t ever change; I know that you will provide for everything I need.

Where do you need God’s provision in your life?

JANUARY 30

Hope Is Here

I rise before dawn and cry for help; I put my hope in your words.

PSALM 119:147 NRSV