Detox for the Soul E-Book

BroadStreet Publishing Group LLC

• Herausgeber: BroadStreet Publishing Group, LLC
• Kategorie: Religion und Spiritualität
• Sprache: Englisch
• Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2023

Seitenzahl: 412

Beschreibung

It is all too easy to dwell on the negative aspects of life. We can talk for hours about conflict, worries, and disappointment, creating feelings of hopelessness, discouragement, and a lack of trust in our heavenly Father who is faithful, good, and just. Jesus said out of the overflow of the heart, the mouth speaks. What we focus on affects how we live. This daily devotional will help you battle against toxic thinking. Renew your mind as you reflect on the Scriptures, devotional entries, and prayers written in this book. Identify your negative thoughts and compare them with truth. What does the Bible say? Are your thoughts honoring of yourself and others? Are they holy, excellent, or worthy of praise? Stop the downward spiral of doubt, comparison, and criticism, and choose instead to dwell on true, pure, noble, and lovely things. Enhance your mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing as you spend time in God's presence. Detox your soul and experience the refreshing nature of a positive outlook. Features: • High-grade faux leather provides durability and exquisite tactile appeal. • Heat debossing on faux leather darkens its color, giving the cover a two-tone appearance and creating indentation which shows off the intricate design and varied texture. • Metallic and matte foil finishing touches are elegantly placed to enhance certain features, capturing attention and adding class for an aesthetic appeal. • Sturdy Smyth-sewn binding stitches book signatures together creating durability and allowing pages to lay flat when open. Decorative head and foot bands are also added to further complement the overall design. • This matte art high quality paper with a smooth satin touch provides long-lasting vivid coloration and durability. • A beautiful satin ribbon marker conveniently keeps your place so you can quickly pick up where you left off.  

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BroadStreet Publishing Group, LLC.

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DETOX FOR THE SOUL

© 2023 by BroadStreet Publishing®

9781424566716

9781424566723 (eBook)

Devotional entries 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 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. www.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 NLT are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked ESV are taken 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 CSB are taken from the Christian Standard Bible®, Copyright © 2017 by Holman Bible Publishers. Used by permission. Christian Standard Bible® and CSB® are federally registered trademarks of Holman Bible Publishers. Scripture quotations marked NASB are taken from the New American Standard Bible, Copyright 2020 by The Lockman Foundation. 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 NCV are taken from the New Century Version®. Copyright © 2005 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked TPT are taken from The Passion Translation® of the Holy Bible. Copyright © 2020 by Passion & Fire Ministries, Inc. Used by permission of BroadStreet Publishing®. All rights reserved.

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Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.

PHILIPPIANS 4:8 NLT

INTRODUCTION

It is all too easy to dwell on the negative aspects of life. We can talk for hours about conflict, worries, and disappointment, creating feelings of hopelessness, discouragement, and a lack of trust in our heavenly Father who is faithful, good, and just. Jesus said out of the overflow of the heart, the mouth speaks. What we focus on affects how we live.

This daily devotional will help you battle against toxic thinking. Renew your mind as you reflect on the Scriptures, devotional entries, and prayers written in this book. Identify your negative thoughts and compare them with truth. What does the Bible say? Are your thoughts honoring of yourself and others? Are they holy, excellent, or worthy of praise? Stop the downward spiral of doubt, comparison, and criticism, and choose instead to dwell on true, pure, noble, and lovely things. Enhance your mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing as you spend time in God’s presence.

Detox your soul and experience the refreshing nature of a positive outlook.

Contents

January

January 1: True and Unchanging

January 2: Delighted in

January 3: Completely Loved

January 4: Higher Perspective

January 5: Surefooted and Strong

January 6: Good News

January 7: So Much More

January 8: Give Thanks

January 9: A Compelling Focus

January 10: No Shame

January 11: Under Love’s Banner

January 12: Transformed Mindsets

January 13: Creatively Put Together

January 14: What a Savior

January 15: No More Striving

January 16: Never Too Far Gone

January 17: Fasten Your Faith

January 18: Permission to Change

January 19: Partner With Him

January 20: Always the Same

January 21: Words to Live by

January 22: Open the Door

January 23: Audience of One

January 24: There is Hope

January 25: Out From Fear

January 26: Trust Him

January 27: Seasons Will Turn

January 28: Never Alone

January 29: Open Understanding

January 30: Divine Exchange

January 31: Deep Secrets

February

February 1: Completely New

February 2: Always Faithful

February 3: Nourished

February 4: Small Beginnings

February 5: Good Thoughts

February 6: Alone Time

February 7: Patterns of Life

February 8: What You Need

February 9: Productive Trust

February 10: The Living Expression

February 11: Choose Your Measure

February 12: Overflow of Goodness

February 13: Follow Him

February 14: Glorious Grace

February 15: Perfect One

February 16: Compelling Curiosity

February 17: Generous Living

February 18: Sowing Into Friendship

February 19: An Open Book

February 20: Filled Up

February 21: Courageous Hope

February 22: Redeemed and Embraced

February 23: Come to Your Father

February 24: Share Good News

February 25: Wonderful Wisdom

February 26: Feed Your Mind

February 27: Application Matters

February 28: Good Connections

March

March 1: Reasons to Rejoice

March 2: Shame Into Praise

March 3: Return

March 4: A Better Standard

March 5: Childlike

March 6: Designed With Destiny

March 7: Giver of Good Gifts

March 8: Consider This

March 9: Enlightened in Hope

March 10: Power of Faith

March 11: Learning From History

March 12: Every Single Morning

March 13: Posture of Trust

March 14: Even in Heartbreak

March 15: Covenant of Love

March 16: Seeds of Eternity

March 17: Not Mine

March 18: Delight in Love

March 19: Shine on

March 20: Renewed in Waiting

March 21: Wholly Delighted in

March 22: Awakened to Gratitude

March 23: Without Exception

March 24: Break of Dawn

March 25: What We Know

March 26: Challenge Your Heart

March 27: Better to Build

March 28: Careful Response

March 29: Truth Teller

March 30: Promised Peace

March 31: Saving Grace

April

April 1: Impossible for Whom

April 2: Chosen and Appointed

April 3: He Works

April 4: Pressure is Off

April 5: Entrenched in Love

April 6: Heavenly Homeland

April 7: More Than Conquerors

April 8: Lives That Flourish

April 9: Freed From Fear

April 10: Time to Rise

April 11: So Much Compassion

April 12: Power of Forgiveness

April 13: Cleansed by Christ

April 14: Start Now

April 15: Sweet Aromas

April 16: Heirs of the Promise

April 17: Confident Assurance

April 18: Trust Him

April 19: Light of Life

April 20: No More Walls

April 21: Reason and Source

April 22: Whatever You Do

April 23: Restored in Full

April 24: Wholeheartedly Seeking

April 25: Compelled by Compassion

April 26: Not Finished Yet

April 27: Look for the Fruit

April 28: Follow His Lead

April 29: Preparing a Place

April 30: Works That Shine

May

May 1: Trustworthy Ones

May 2: Hopeful Plans

May 3: In Every Situation

May 4: Strong Defense

May 5: Vessels of the Spirit

May 6: Uplifting Encouragement

May 7: Rest on Every Side

May 8: Sharing With Others

May 9: Empowering Strength

May 10: Not Crushed

May 11: Growing Stronger

May 12: Hearts of Flesh

May 13: Ageless Grace

May 14: Hemmed in by Love

May 15: Beyond Understanding

May 16: Courage to Conquer

May 17: Do It for the Lord

May 18: No Use in Worrying

May 19: Opportunities for Joy

May 20: No Fear of Shame

May 21: Contentment is Powerful

May 22: Reaching for Approval

May 23: Imparters of Grace

May 24: Do What You Love

May 25: Tapestries of Goodness

May 26: Firm Plans

May 27: He Works Within

May 28: No One Forgotten

May 29: Sustained

May 30: Pervasive Peace

May 31: Sacrifice of Praise

June

June 1: Forever True

June 2: Goodness in Store

June 3: Everlasting God

June 4: Good Shepherd

June 5: Spirit Intercession

June 6: Inner Strength

June 7: Share the Weight

June 8: He Sees It All

June 9: Let Go a Little

June 10: Nourishing Love

June 11: Always Good

June 12: Extravagance

June 13: Actively Moving

June 14: In Every Way

June 15: Simple Requirements

June 16: Humbling Perspective

June 17: Focus on Today

June 18: Continually Made New

June 19: Use What You Have

June 20: Everything We Need

June 21: Always More

June 22: Freedom All Around

June 23: Possibilities of Gratitude

June 24: Lifegiving Wisdom

June 25: Rightful Confidence

June 26: Refreshing News

June 27: Powerful Blessings

June 28: Reliable Help

June 29: Rescued From Darkness

June 30: Exceeding Expectations

July

July 1: Sleep Soundly

July 2: Out of Captivity

July 3: Levels of Trust

July 4: Open Hearts

July 5: Tell Your Story

July 6: Gracious Freedom

July 7: Space to Contemplate

July 8: Confidence to Continue

July 9: Let God

July 10: Obedience is Better

July 11: He is Not Behind

July 12: In Light of Eternity

July 13: Capable Hands

July 14: Courage to Come

July 15: Through Christ

July 16: Powerful Love

July 17: Open Minds

July 18: Looking for the Savior

July 19: The Right Thing

July 20: Deepening Friendship

July 21: No Need to Fear

July 22: Patient Confidence

July 23: Mighty Protector

July 24: Timely Guidance

July 25: Share the Goodness

July 26: A Choice

July 27: Strength Training

July 28: Choose Well

July 29: Lay Down Pride

July 30: Ready to Forgive

July 31: Don’t Be Ensnared

August

August 1: Image of the Almighty

August 2: Lift Your Focus

August 3: Seasons for Everything

August 4: Enjoy Yourself

August 5: Infinite Understanding

August 6: Unquenchable Love

August 7: Take a Break

August 8: People of His Pasture

August 9: Speakers of Truth

August 10: Check Your Heart

August 11: He Gets It

August 12: God’s Desire

August 13: True Wisdom

August 14: Unconfined

August 15: Alone Time

August 16: Creating Contentment

August 17: Never Too Late

August 18: Absolutely Inseparable

August 19: Strength of Heart

August 20: Joy is Coming

August 21: Message of Peace

August 22: Unified and Dignified

August 23: Ever-present Goodness

August 24: Shining Bright

August 25: Peaceful Hearts

August 26: Even More Grace

August 27: Treasures of Darkness

August 28: Promise Keeper

August 29: Accomplishments

August 30: Sing Your Gratitude

August 31: Honorable Faith

September

September 1: Reasons to Trust

September 2: Living Water

September 3: Cords of Kindness

September 4: Listen for It

September 5: Heart Detection

September 6: Every Detail

September 7: Beginning and End

September 8: He Already Knows

September 9: In the Name

September 10: Lean on His Help

September 11: Clarity of Mind

September 12: Obedient Devotion

September 13: Joyful Hope

September 14: Timely Reminders

September 15: Sustained by the Lord

September 16: Loosen Your Grip

September 17: Authority

September 18: Press on

September 19: You Already Know

September 20: Walking on Water

September 21: Believe Him

September 22: Taken Care of

September 23: Restored by God

September 24: Healing in Confession

September 25: Growing Up in God

September 26: Reap What You Sow

September 27: Christ Our Head

September 28: Unshakeable Trust

September 29: Choosing Forgiveness

September 30: Found in Him

October

October 1: Help Me Believe

October 2: Asked and Granted

October 3: Kingdom Attributes

October 4: Nourishing Grace

October 5: Power of Scripture

October 6: Room for Weakness

October 7: His Kindness

October 8: From Worry to Faith

October 9: Daily Surrender

October 10: Identifiable Fruit

October 11: First Thing

October 12: Learning Opportunities

October 13: No Lingering Accusations

October 14: Greater Than Any Army

October 15: Dwelling Place

October 16: More Than a Theory

October 17: Covenant of Peace

October 18: Promise of Presence

October 19: Measures of Mercy

October 20: Perfect Love

October 21: Gifts of Grace

October 22: Cheerful Choices

October 23: Leave Some Room

October 24: Opportunities to Bless

October 25: Powerful Prudence

October 26: Spirit of Truth

October 27: More Than Ideology

October 28: Multiplied Efforts

October 29: Perfect Portion

October 30: Hopeful Returns

October 31: Sense of Belonging

November

November 1: Every Generation

November 2: Reverent Hearts

November 3: Patient Endurance

November 4: Eyes That See

November 5: Abundance

November 6: Mighty Power

November 7: Receiving With Thanks

November 8: Refining Fires

November 9: Easy to Discover

November 10: Seasoned With Grace

November 11: Refreshing Perspectives

November 12: Sharpened by Wisdom

November 13: Every Single Day

November 14: Springs of Life

November 15: Let Him Do It

November 16: Make a Change

November 17: Every Detail

November 18: Cultivating Love

November 19: Hide in Him

November 20: Taste and See

November 21: Choosing Empathy

November 22: Prepare and Trust

November 23: Living for Goodness

November 24: All the Time

November 25: Still Rejoicing

November 26: Full of Compassion

November 27: Great Expectation

November 28: Always a Way

November 29: Just a Shadow

November 30: Abide in Truth

December

December 1: Stay the Course

December 2: Sent to Save

December 3: Confidence in Crisis

December 4: Completely Familiar

December 5: Different Expressions

December 6: Bridges of Love

December 7: He is Coming

December 8: Believe It

December 9: Overflowing

December 10: Happy to Host

December 11: Ministry of Reconciliation

December 12: Always in Sight

December 13: In Spirit and Truth

December 14: Sons and Daughters

December 15: More Than Able

December 16: Precious Promises

December 17: Dedicated to God

December 18: Even More Strength

December 19: Free From Worry

December 20: Generations of Faithfulness

December 21: Brought Near

December 22: Living Hope

December 23: Build Those Muscles

December 24: Wonderful God

December 25: Joyous Tidings

December 26: Keep Going

December 27: Even if

December 28: Completely Cleared

December 29: Beyond Measure

December 30: Coming or Going

December 31: A Bright Hope

JANUARY

Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God.

ROMANS 12:2 CSB

JANUARY 1

TRUE AND UNCHANGING

God, you are near me always, so close to me; every one of your commands reveals truth. I’ve known all along how true and unchanging is every word you speak, established forever!

PSALM 119:151-152 TPT

Fix your thoughts on the nearness of God today. Make it a priority to bring your attention back to his presence throughout your day. As you do, reflect on the fruit of his presence in your life. Where is there love, joy, peace, kindness, and graciousness? Where is there room to both rest and grow in who you are?

The commands of the Lord are not meant to burden us but to liberate us. There is wisdom in the Word of the Lord. There is encouragement, direction, and acceptance. There is belonging, challenges, and an invitation to experience the steadfast mercy of God at every turn. Practice slowing down your responses when you feel yourself getting caught up in worry, irritation, or fear. Turn your attention to the nearness of your God and meditate on his faithfulness. He is forever good, and he is a ready help in every season of the soul.

Faithful One, thank you for being ever so near at all times. I lean on your faithfulness today. As I bring my attention and focus back to your presence throughout the day, release your peace, wisdom, and truth into my heart.

JANUARY 2

DELIGHTED IN

The LORD your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing.

ZEPHANIAH 3:17 ESV

If we are not proactive in our relationship with God, drawing near to his heart, we may miss out on the freedom of his love. God does not love us because he has to, but because he is compelled to. He delights over us with gladness. He rejoices over us with singing.

God’s heart is tender toward us. It is to our detriment when we resist the graciousness of his affection. When we focus on the parts of us that feel “not enough” we allow the voice of shame to drown out the Father’s delight. We are not accepted because of what we do, but because the Lord loves us as we are. His liberating mercy allows us to bloom in the light of his love. As we readily receive his delight as children of a good and attentive Father, we are free to live, move, and love others well.

Lord God, there is no one like you in love. You are pure hearted and true. I won’t close my heart off from your love, especially the areas that need your mercy. Thank you, Father!

JANUARY 3

COMPLETELY LOVED

“The Father himself loves you.”

JOHN 16:27 NIV

If we were to spend every day of our lives meditating on the truth that Jesus revealed in this verse, we would never reach the end of its impact. Love is the basis of the kingdom of God. It is who God is.

Instead of letting the idea of God’s love become trite, let’s press in to know God and his heart in a deeper way. The Holy Spirit reveals the wisdom of God, and we can trust him to show us new aspects of his love and how it plays out in our lives. As we are loved, so can we also love others. There isn’t a part of us that is not reached or covered by the love of Christ. We are fully immersed in the mercy of God, and that is no small thing. It is the foundation of our faith, of our relationships, and of our identity.

Good Father, I admit that I need a fresh revelation of your love today. As I focus on your love, reveal what I could not perceive before. I want to know the power, the length, and the breadth of your mercy-kindness. Open my eyes even as I feel your love expand my heart.

JANUARY 4

HIGHER PERSPECTIVE

Raise your eyes on high and see who has created these stars, the One who brings out their multitude by number, he calls them all by name; because of the greatness of his might and the strength of his power, not one of them is missing.

ISAIAH 40:26 NASB

When life is overwhelming, it can feel as if the walls of this world are closing in on us. This is the perfect time to expand our perspective, and there are practical ways we can ground our bodies, minds, and hearts in this way.

Take today’s verse, for instance. When we physically stand in a space that reminds us of our smallness, it can bring great comfort to know that God is much larger than we can imagine, and so is his wisdom. Whether you go to the ocean and stare over the great waters, stand under the dark sky and look up into the heavens and see the twinkling of stars, or hike a mountain to gain higher perspective, take some time to physically get into a space that reminds you of the Creator and his vast power. As you do, remind yourself that even the great trials of your life do not overwhelm your God.

Creator, thank you for the cues of your greatness in creation. As I step outside and consider your handiwork, bring rest, peace, and perspective to my heart and life.

JANUARY 5

SUREFOOTED AND STRONG

The Sovereign LORD is my strength! He makes me as surefooted as a deer, able to tread upon the heights.

HABAKKUK 3:19 NLT

When we are overtired and worn-down, it can be difficult to focus on anything else. Yet, the Scriptures say over and over again that the Lord is our strength. In our weakness, he makes us strong. When we run out of our own vigor, we lean on him, and he carries us. He steadies our feet in troubled times.

It is good to recognize our limits. When we are weary, we should rest. When we are hungry, we should eat. God does not want us to neglect ourselves so that we burnout. Rest is holy. Still, there are things that we cannot rest ourselves out of. In times and seasons when life keeps going and we have little to give on our own, the Lord offers us his own grace-strength. Let’s look to him in our times of need, for he is faithful to offer all that he has and is to us. What a glorious hope!

Lord, make my feet sure and my resolve strong. When I have nothing more of my own to give, you always have an abundance of what I need: peace, joy, strength, hope, and love. Fill me afresh today.

JANUARY 6

GOOD NEWS

“The LORD, the LORD is a compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger and abounding in faithful love and truth.”

EXODUS 34:6 CSB

Where we can be quick to judge, God is thoughtful and gracious. He sees what we cannot—the full picture, as well as the intentions of every heart. The Lord is not quick to silence us when we assert our needs. He is kind, merciful, and abounding in faithfulness.

When you feel yourself jumping to conclusions about others and their motives today, bring it under the canopy of God’s grace. It is not your job to judge others, but to love them. And what does God’s love look like? It is slow to anger, abounding in grace and kindness. May you find yourself enveloped in the mercy of God today, and from that place give out of the abundance of his pure love to others.

Gracious God, you see my heart in all of its stages. You are so much better than this world that pins people down with judgment. You are so merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in love. I want to reflect you in the way I move in this world. Help me, Lord.

JANUARY 7

SO MUCH MORE

With God’s power working in us, God can do much, much more than anything we can ask or imagine.

EPHESIANS 3:20 NCV

If we put our minds to something, it is very likely that we can accomplish it. There is value in hard work and focus. Even so, there are limits to our abilities, and we cannot account for unforeseen obstacles in life. We cannot control what the world will do, accidents that will happen, or how loss will affect us. When our plans go off-track, we are not without hope. God is faithful, and his mercy will hold us together in ways we could never have anticipated.

God is able to do immeasurably more than anything we can imagine or ask him to do. His power is fueled by love, it doesn’t miss a detail, and it can resurrect and redeem what we could not on our own. His ways are better, his thoughts are better, and his intentions are better for us than we have for ourselves. Let’s trust him to do what only he can do, even as we ask him to intervene in our lives.

Mighty God, I know that you are able to do more than I can even venture to imagine. Even so, I will stretch my imagination to partner with your love and power. Have your way in my life. I trust you.

JANUARY 8

GIVE THANKS

Oh, give thanks to the LORD! Call upon His name; Make known His deeds among the peoples!

1 CHRONICLES 16:8 NKJV

The practice of gratitude is a powerful tool in directing our attention to the good things of this life—the good gifts God has given us. We don’t have to ignore our needs or the very real pressures we are under. We can bring those to God in prayer, knowing he hears us. But let’s not stop there.

Today, take the time to make a gratitude list. What are the things you are thankful for? Who are the people in your life that you are grateful for? Nothing is too small if it brings you comfort and joy. As you go about your day, make note of the things that offer peace, joy, hope, and love. Thank God for every one and consider sharing some of the practical acts of his goodness in your life with others.

Lord, thank you for this day—for another opportunity to be known, to create, to live, move, and have my being. I am so grateful for the gifts of this life. Be honored as I pour out my gratitude to you every time I recognize your blessing in my life.

JANUARY 9

A COMPELLING FOCUS

I don’t depend on my own strength to accomplish this; however I do have one compelling focus: I forget all of the past as I fasten my heart to the future instead.

PHILIPPIANS 3:13 TPT

Ruminating on the past can make us feel stuck in the present. When shame comes knocking on the doors of our hearts as we see things we could have done differently, it is important that we invite Christ’s perspective over us. We have to let go of what was in order to move ahead. We cannot hold ourselves in the prison of perfectionism and expect to thrive.

Instead of dwelling on things that we cannot change in the past, we can shift our focus to who God is, who he says we are, and what he has for us in the future. As we ground ourselves in the overwhelming love of Christ that meets us in the right here and now, we can move forward with confidence. Christ is our compelling focus.

Lord Jesus, I let go of the shame that made me feel stuck and I receive your love that lifts me out of that pit. I choose to follow you, eyes fixed on who you are. Thank you for loving me, redeeming me and calling me yours.

JANUARY 10

NO SHAME

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

Hope does not put us to shame. What a powerful statement. The Holy Spirit does not work within our hearts to produce shame, but to shower us in love. We come alive in the truth of Love’s light. We have been given grace upon grace.

Even in times of trouble, as Paul says in Romans 5:3, we have a joyful confidence in Christ. As we endure, our character is strengthened and refined, and that leads us back to our shame-free hope. If you are struggling against condemnation because you are going through a tough time, be sure of this: that is not from God. He who calls you his own reaches out in tender mercy, gracious strength, and astounding peace. Rise up in the confidence of who Christ says you are and throw off the shackles of shame. You don’t have to live under condemnation’s abuse any longer. You are free in Christ, and he is your living hope.

Holy Spirit, flood my senses with the power of your love until I am filled with the sense of expansive belonging, empowered determination, and peaceful resolution. You are my hope.

JANUARY 11

UNDER LOVE’S BANNER

He has brought me to his banquet hall, and his banner over me is love.

SONG OF SOLOMON 2:4 NASB

When we live under the banner of God’s love, no arrows of accusation can rip us apart. When we become aware of areas in our lives that aren’t in alignment with the good news of Christ, we have the opportunity to repent and repair. Love doesn’t excuse our mistakes, but it also doesn’t hold them against us.

The Scriptures declare that the mercies of God are new every morning. There is a fresh portion of compassionate mercy in every moment. When we turn to God, we find ourselves enveloped in his love, completely covered by the banner of his affection. It is greater than any fear, shame, or regret. What an invitation we have today: to rejoice in the faithfulness of God’s great love that covers us.

Merciful God, thank you for the power of your persistent love. I yield to your mercy, for it is my strength, my joy, and my peace. Wherever I am out of alignment with your heart, bring me into position today. I am yours, and I surrender to your ways.

JANUARY 12

TRANSFORMED MINDSETS

Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.

ROMANS 12:2 NLT

The way we think informs the way we live. If we are full of fear, skepticism, and anger, then the paths we choose will show it. The fruit of our lives reflects what we take in. Our motivations matter, but so do the wells we draw from.

Take some time with the Lord in prayer and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal mindsets that don’t reflect his kingdom. Don’t copy the behavior of others around you simply because they are customary. Let God speak his higher perspective, his life-giving wisdom, and allow yourself to be transformed as you do what he shows you to do. Where there is love, peace, joy, patience, kindness, along with all the fruit of God’s Spirit, there is a trustworthy source to draw from.

Spirit, transform my thoughts, down to the way I think about things, in your gracious presence. I don’t want to fall in line with tradition and others’ expectations; I want to reflect you from the inside out in every part of my life.

JANUARY 13

CREATIVELY PUT TOGETHER

You created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.

PSALM 139:13-14 NIV

When we find our worth in what others think of us, it is as if we are trying to hit a moving target. Beauty standards change all the time, as do fashions. What once was sought becomes yesterday’s news as trends move.

What would it look like for you to accept yourself for who God created you to be? You don’t have to change a single thing to find yourself fully loved and accepted by your Father in heaven. The things you see as quirks are creative inputs of an attentive Creator. You are fearfully and wonderfully made—you. Just as you are. When you are tempted to cover your perceived flaws, offer loving acceptance. Make it a practice and see how it changes the way you see yourself. You are worthy of love, you fearfully and wonderfully made image of the divine.

Creator, I want to love myself the way that you love me—completely. Help me to grow in compassion toward myself, as well as grounded identity in who you have wonderfully created me to be.

JANUARY 14

WHAT A SAVIOR

“Let us praise the LORD, the God of Israel, because he has come to help his people and has given them freedom. He has given us a powerful Savior.”

LUKE 1:68-69 NCV

God did not leave us without help in this world. He sent his Son, Jesus Christ, to help us and to liberate us. No matter what hard times we go through, we are free from the curse of sin, fear, and death. We are liberated in Christ here and now, not only in the kingdom to come.

This is extraordinarily good news. No one can take away the power of love that saves us. We can turn our attention to the very near presence of God and to the hope of our hearts, Jesus Christ. Even when pressure rises, God’s peace is ever so near. Let’s lean into it, fixing our eyes on our wonderful Savior. As we do, we will know the freedom of his love, peace, and joy in even greater measures.

Savior, thank you for the freedom I find in you. Continue to peel back the layers of my heart as I put all my trust in you.

JANUARY 15

NO MORE STRIVING

“Don’t strive for what you should eat and what you should drink, and don’t be anxious.”

LUKE 12:29 CSB

Worrying and striving deplete our emotional energy. Jesus instructed his followers to give up striving for the necessities and to lay aside their worries. In fact, he invited them to leave their worries with him.

When we cannot avoid the anxiety that crops up and the fear that pushes us to strive for things rather than rest in trust, we don’t have to simply ignore the feelings. That won’t do anything to help us, for it won’t go anywhere at all. Let’s take every worry and anxious thought and bring it to Christ, and let’s leave them there with him. He can be trusted, and he offers us peace in their place.

Trustworthy Savior, I don’t want to keep toiling for what you offer me for free. Rather than striving for the bare minimum, I trust you to provide, and I partner with your heart and rest in your peace.

JANUARY 16

NEVER TOO FAR GONE

“The Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost.”

LUKE 19:10 NKJV

It is never too late to choose to do better. You are not too far-gone, no matter what mess you may find yourself in. The grace and mercy of Jesus Christ is powerful to save, and he came to seek and to save that which was lost.

When you are tempted to give into despair, instead invite Christ into the home of your heart. Allow him to enter your life, to rearrange what needs to be shifted and to receive the gracious restoration of his love. He can do far more than you can imagine. Simply humble yourself, welcome him in, and allow him to do what he will do in you. His love is better than your shame, guilt, or fear. It is more powerful than any threat or trouble you are in. Trust him, for he is good, and he is able to save you.

Jesus Christ, in you I put my hope—even the last dregs of it. I don’t want to waste away in despair. Come into my heart and life today and bring restoration, redemption, and life. I yield to you, for you are my Savior.

JANUARY 17

FASTEN YOUR FAITH

It is through him that you now believe in God, who raised him from the dead and glorified him, so that you would fasten your faith and hope in God alone.

1 PETER 1:21 TPT

Consider today what your hopes are fixed on. Is it the next promotion, an overhaul of your finances, or a relationship that you feel could fix everything that feels out of order in your life? It doesn’t take long to realize that once we receive what we had long awaited, our hopes latch onto the next thing.

Christ is the source of every longing, desire, and need. He is the well we draw from to find our satisfaction. His presence brings perfect peace, jubilant joy, and overwhelming hope. His lavish love both expands our expectations and fulfills them. Instead of looking for satisfaction outside of ourselves, let’s look to the one who chooses to dwell within through his Spirit. As we fasten our faith and hope to him, he releases more of himself over us. He is worthy of our trust, our devotion, and our attention—now and always.

Faithful One, I choose to look to you today for all that I need. I bring you my unfulfilled longings and ask for your presence to fill me up with the wonderful goodness of your living love. I fasten my faith to you.

JANUARY 18

PERMISSION TO CHANGE

When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put the ways of childhood behind me.

1 CORINTHIANS 13:11 NIV

Just as we go through developmental stages in our bodies, cognition, and emotions, we also go through faith stages. Growth in faith looks like maturity. Though children see the world as black and white, fact or fiction, adults are able to see the gray between, the nuances of life. We cannot expect our spiritual lives to remain the same throughout our lives; no more than we could expect a child to remain small and within the limitations of their young selves.

It is healthy to embrace the changes that you have experienced. You are always learning and growing, even until the day you die. As you discover there is less you can control than you once thought, allow yourself to let go of the need and surrender to the mystery. God is still with you. He is still guiding you. He is true, and he never changes. It is right to change your mind about things when you have a better picture and more information. Allow yourself to do it; it is not a threat to your faith, but rather necessary to its growth.

Father, thank you for the chance to change, mature, and grow. I embrace it.

JANUARY 19

PARTNER WITH HIM

“Be strong and courageous, and do the work. Don’t be afraid or discouraged, for the LORD God, my God, is with you. He will not fail you or forsake you. He will see to it that all the work related to the Temple of the LORD is finished.”

1 CHRONICLES 28:20 NLT

Having faith in God does not mean that we sit back and wait for him to move on our behalf in every season of our lives. There is power in our partnership. Be strong and courageous, and do the work. What is “the work” that you know to do? It really is simple. Put your faith in God, and do what is yours to do.

Instead of getting lost in the what ifs today, take hold of what you know to be true. Even if the work looks like feeding your family today, it is not without value. You are a builder in the kingdom of your Father, and your efforts to partner with his purposes have lasting effect. Don’t neglect your part, for your role is unique and imperative. In all things, do it with love, and it will not be wasted.

Lord, help me to focus on your help and the work that is mine to do. I don’t want to get caught up in what isn’t being done by others. You are my strength and courage, and I choose to partner with you.

JANUARY 20

ALWAYS THE SAME

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.

HEBREWS 13:8 NASB

In a world full of constant change, there is one who remains the same forever. He is forever moved with compassion, full of marvelous mercy, and overflowing with kindness. He is just, true, and always sees things clearly.

When we feel overwhelmed by the unknowns of tomorrow, we can take refuge in the constancy of our Lord God. He is a safe place to find shelter. He sees the end from the beginning, and everything between, and he is full of wisdom, strategy, and power. He can restore even what feels irredeemable. He is better than the best of us. Let’s throw the anchor of our hope into the abundant waters of his strong love, for they will never run dry.

Unchanging One, as I meditate on your goodness and your grandeur, I cannot help but be filled with the peace of your presence. You are trustworthy and true, and you will never change. You are not vengeful or controlling. You are generous and kind, and how I love you for it. Transform my heart in the power of your nature.

JANUARY 21

WORDS TO LIVE BY

“Render true judgments, show kindness and mercy to one another, do not oppress the widow, the fatherless, the sojourner, or the poor, and let none of you devise evil against another in your heart.”

ZECHARIAH 7:8-10 ESV

Love is liberating, not controlling. It is full of kindness and grace. It is not biased, nor is it manipulative. The law of love reigns over every tradition, regulation, and law of this world. We are not to act as the world does, but we are to be extravagant in loving-kindness, generous with what we have, and compassionate with others.

We should do better because we have received from the overwhelming abundance of God’s love. We should be light to the world, spreading mercy and caring for the vulnerable. Instead of drawing lines in the sand, we should be tearing down walls and building bridges. This is the way of Christ’s kingdom.

Lord, when I consider how you instruct us to live and how I actually treat others, I see so much room for growth in myself. Help me to put away the old ways of treating others how I am treated and turn the tables. May I follow your path of love, even and especially when it feels hard to do so. I believe that it is worth it.

JANUARY 22

OPEN THE DOOR

“See! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me.”

REVELATION 3:20 CSB

Jesus stands at the door of your heart, knocking. Do you hear his voice? Open the door to him, and welcome him in. There is unbroken fellowship in his presence, and there we find abundantly more than all that we need. He is good, and he loves us to life over and over again.

We could remain closed off to the ways of Christ, or we can embrace his paths of peace. It all starts in our hearts, in union with his Spirit. Even if all you can do is crack the door of your heart open a little to peek out, he is standing there ready to reveal his goodness to you. He is kind, and his kindness leads to repentance. He is not full of anger toward you for all of your failures but of love to restore you. Will you open up to him today?

Jesus Christ, I don’t want to struggle on my own any longer. Even when I feel resistance, I will open the door to you. Reveal the truth of your love to me as I do. I want to be washed in the refreshing waters of your love and restored in your mercy.

JANUARY 23

AUDIENCE OF ONE

“Pray to your Father, who cannot be seen. Your Father can see what is done in secret, and he will reward you.”

MATTHEW 6:6 NCV

When we work for the attention and affirmation of others, we become like hamsters on a wheel, spinning and spinning but going nowhere. Instead of putting our energy into others’ perceptions of us, let’s follow our hearts and do what is right and good for the audience of our Father. He sees what no one else does, and he will never overlook our efforts of love.

Every sacrifice and surrender is accounted for. Every movement of mercy is noted. As we dedicate our days to him, we can be sure that even the smallest choices have larger effects. Integrity keeps us honest when no one else is looking, for we know that God always is. We don’t have to publish our good deeds, but we can be sure that God notices each and every one.

Father, I know that you see what others miss. I don’t want to strive for attention or affirmation from others. I want all I do to be rooted from a place of love and confidence in knowing that it matters to you. Thank you for not missing a thing.

JANUARY 24

THERE IS HOPE

There is hope for a tree, if it is cut down, that it will sprout again, and that its tender shoots will not cease.

JOB 14:7 NKJV

When we go through hard times, our lives becoming smaller than we imagined they would, God is still faithful. There is always hope. As long as we are living, there is redemption, restoration, and mercy. Even if a tree is cut down, there is hope for it to sprout again. Do we believe the same can be true for us?

No matter what setbacks you face, you can trust that there is hope for redemption. There is new life that can sprout from the ashes of what has burned to the ground. Once you are through the painful grief, know that the cleansing power of a fresh start is beautiful ground for hope. Your hopes are not in vain, for if they are rooted in the Lord, they will be nourished and produce fruit. Dare to hope today, even in the face of loss.

Restorer, thank you for the hope that does not fail. I trust that you are not finished with me yet. Have your way in my life and bring new life out of the ashes of despair. I am rooted in you.

JANUARY 25

OUT FROM FEAR

God will never give you the spirit of fear, but the Holy Spirit who gives you mighty power, love, and self-control.

2 TIMOTHY 1:7 TPT

Though many systems and people of this world lead with fear, God does not. He does not seek to control us through fear, nor does he hold us captive by it. He liberates us with love every single time. Where there is fear in our lives, it is certainly not the work of God.

The Holy Spirit gives us mighty power, love, and self-control. Self-control is an ability to tell the difference between what is tempting and what is good for us and to choose the better thing. We are not slaves to our desires or to the pull of the world. We are free to choose and to choose well because the Spirit of God is alive in us. Let’s come out from under fear’s restrictive hold on our lives and walk in the power, love, and self-control of the Spirit.

Great God, I will not fear what others may say or do against me. I choose to live in the liberation of your love and follow the wisdom of your truth. Your ways are so much better than the ways of this world.

JANUARY 26

TRUST HIM

Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account.

HEBREWS 4:13 NIV

It is exceedingly good news that nothing in all creation is hidden from God. He sees everything and everyone clearly, without bias, without corruption, and without pretense. No one can hide their motives from God. God is the only wise judge, so let’s give up our need to know it all and trust him to do what only he can do.

Can you trust God enough to lay down the right to your judgment of others? Can you do what Jesus called you to and love your neighbor well, as well as love your God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength? It is not your job to judge your neighbor but to love them. Consider how you can put that into practice and trust God with the rest today.

Wise God, I trust that you see what no one else can. I give up the tendency to judge others and instead open myself up more to your love, and to giving it to others. May I operate in grace and mercy, not in judgment and self-protection.

JANUARY 27

SEASONS WILL TURN

Rejoice, you people of Jerusalem! Rejoice in the LORD your God! For the rain he sends demonstrates his faithfulness. Once more the autumn rains will come, as well as the rains of spring.

JOEL 2:23 NLT

If you find yourself longing for winter’s end, know that it is coming. The sun rises each morning, bringing with it fresh mercy. The seasons will change, the rains of spring once more bringing signs and songs of hope.

Whatever feels like drudgery, can you bring it into the light of this truth? This too shall pass, and you will find yourself in the long days of bright light and warm air. God is faithful to come through for you, just as you can count on day turning to night and winter giving way to spring. Rest in the hope that you will get through this. Lighter days will soon come upon you.

Faithful One, thank you for the promise of your loyal love meeting me with each new sunrise and every turning of the seasons. I trust you, and I look to you for help and hope.

JANUARY 28

NEVER ALONE

“I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

MATTHEW 28:20 NASB

The same promise that Christ gave to his disciples before he ascended to the Father’s side is the promise we have to hold onto today. We are never without the presence of God through his Spirit. When we yield our lives to Christ, he makes his home in our hearts.

We cannot escape the goodness of God. David knew this truth well when he said, “If I ascend to heaven, You are there; If I make my bed in Sheol, behold You are there” (Psalm 139:8). He is everywhere we are, wherever we go. His mercy is ever-present, and his wisdom is at hand. He is trustworthy and faithful, and we can depend on him every moment of every day. We couldn’t evade him if we tried.