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The circumstances of life may have you feeling discouraged, overwhelmed, frustrated, anxious, or even depressed. Isn't it encouraging to know that God's love is not dependent on your situation? Because his love for you is unchanging and his promises are true, you can choose to believe that today will be a good day. Find the hope, joy, and strength that is abundant in God as you reflect on these devotional entries, scriptures, and prayers. No matter what comes your way today, you can get through it with God at your side.
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BroadStreet Publishing Group, LLC.
Savage, Minnesota, USA
Broadstreetpublishing.com
Hope for Today
© 2020 by BroadStreet Publishing®
978-1-4245-6101-8 (faux leather)
978-1-4245-6102-5 (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 (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 © 2017, 2018 by Passion & Fire Ministries, Inc. Used by permission of BroadStreet Publishing. All rights reserved.
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20 21 22 23 24 25 26 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
The LORD your God is living among you.
He is a mighty savior.
He will take delight in you with gladness.
With his love, he will calm all your fears.
He will rejoice over you with joyful songs.
ZEPHANIAH 3:17 NLT
Introduction
January
January 1: Never Alone
January 2: Unchanging One
January 3: Delivered
January 4: Steady
January 5: Hopeful Heart
January 6: Unbothered
January 7: Shielded
January 8: Resilient
January 9: Kingdom Bearer
January 10: Sweet Words
January 11: Confidence
January 12: Freedom
January 13: Filled
January 14: Unseen
January 15: Rest
January 16: Strength for Today
January 17: Hopeful Expectation
January 18: Wait
January 19: Enough
January 20: Cast off Troubles
January 21: Goodness
January 22: Confident Help
January 23: Humble Heart
January 24: Joy for Mourning
January 25: Saved
January 26: Tired
January 27: Fulfilled Hope
January 28: Trust
January 29: Radiant Hope
January 30: Words of Hope
January 31: One Thing
February
February 1: Loved
February 2: Supported
February 3: Here Now
February 4: Trust Jesus
February 5: Call Out
February 6: Strong Love
February 7: Unashamed
February 8: Safe and Secure
February 9: Words of Promise
February 10: Keep Praying
February 11: Whole Heart
February 12: Steady Ground
February 13: Joyful Surrender
February 14: Higher Love
February 15: Dependable
February 16: Protected
February 17: Firmly Planted
February 18: Keep Asking
February 19: Wasted Energy
February 20: Able
February 21: All I Need
February 22: Deliverance Is Coming
February 23: Shared Comfort
February 24: Sincere Hope
February 25: Hold On
February 26: Patient Endurance
February 27: Mindful Discipline
February 28: Don’t Give Up
March
March 1: Fulfillment
March 2: Good God
March 3: Morning Is Coming
March 4: Fed by Love
March 5: Spirit Fruit
March 6: Confident Perseverance
March 7: Continue to Believe
March 8: Come Boldly
March 9: Power to Stand
March 10: Possibility
March 11: Living God
March 12: All I Have
March 13: Dawn Is Coming
March 14: Planted
March 15: Joy in Comfort
March 16: Tender Relief
March 17: Courageous Heart
March 18: Trusted Father
March 19: Constant Prayer
March 20: Adopted
March 21: Led by Love
March 22: Children of God
March 23: Overwhelming Gladness
March 24: Double Portion
March 25: Resolve
March 26: Answer Me
March 27: God My Help
March 28: Eagerly Waiting
March 29: Stop Striving
March 30: Beautiful
March 31: Always the Same
April
April 1: Faith in Action
April 2: Conviction
April 3: Trust Him
April 4: Wonderfully Made
April 5: Nourished by the Word
April 6: Compassionate Father
April 7: Strengthened by Love
April 8: Never Worry
April 9: How Long
April 10: Perfect Faithfulness
April 11: Waiting on the Lord
April 12: Momentary Troubles
April 13: Delivered from Darkness
April 14: Heart’s Delight
April 15: Shining Light
April 16: Lifelong Love
April 17: God’s People
April 18: Filled by Power
April 19: Pause
April 20: Don’t Fret
April 21: Freedom Now
April 22: New Life
April 23: Seen
April 24: I Will Praise
April 25: My Confidence
April 26: Restoration
April 27: Delivered Again
April 28: Eager Expectation
April 29: Cared For
April 30: Peaceful and Secure
May
May 1: No More Tears
May 2: Covered
May 3: Lifted Up
May 4: Continue Strong
May 5: Love Remains
May 6: Renewed Strength
May 7: Freedom of Grace
May 8: Submitted to Christ
May 9: Immeasurably More
May 10: Free from Anxiety
May 11: Sanctuary
May 12: Longing
May 13: Free Indeed
May 14: Wisdom Found
May 15: Encouraged to Hope
May 16: Beauty from Within
May 17: Saved by Faith
May 18: Without Hindrance
May 19: Common Ground
May 20: Saving Grace
May 21: Future Hope
May 22: Resurrection Life
May 23: Thoughts of Peace
May 24: Great Confidence
May 25: Answered
May 26: Guided by Truth
May 27: Believe
May 28: Not Afraid
May 29: Eyes Opened
May 30: Real Revelation
May 31: Anchor of the Soul
June
June 1: Endurance
June 2: Heartsick
June 3: Steadfast Hope
June 4: Hurry to Help
June 5: Yes and Amen
June 6: Brave Enough
June 7: Wonderful Things
June 8: Wait on the Lord
June 9: Do Not Forget
June 10: Provision Is Yours
June 11: Always Gracious
June 12: Safe Place
June 13: Fully Equipped
June 14: Listen Closely
June 15: Rightful Pursuit
June 16: Hiding Place
June 17: My Only Hope
June 18: United Heart
June 19: In the Meantime
June 20: Run to Safety
June 21: All I Need
June 22: Generous Living
June 23: Never Disappointed
June 24: Coming Joy
June 25: Strength to Go On
June 26: Fought For
June 27: Sustained by Love
June 28: Healing on the Horizon
June 29: Thoughtful Living
June 30: A Place Prepared
July
July 1: Champion Defender
July 2: Home in Him
July 3: Confident Help
July 4: Restored by Rest
July 5: He Is Near
July 6: Guarded by Wisdom
July 7: A Thankful Heart
July 8: Blessed to Trust
July 9: A Father’s Help
July 10: Working for the Lord
July 11: God’s Workmanship
July 12: Rock of Refuge
July 13: God of Salvation
July 14: Present Joy
July 15: Slow Down
July 16: Still Trusting
July 17: Saved by Wisdom
July 18: Divine Power
July 19: Take Heart
July 20: Portion of Peace
July 21: Seeds of Goodness
July 22: Never Without Hope
July 23: Good Gifts
July 24: Extravagant Mercy
July 25: United in Love
July 26: Slow to Anger
July 27: Faith with Patience
July 28: Alive in Christ
July 29: Tender Care
July 30: Never Disgraced
July 31: Rest for the Weary
August
August 1: Words of Life
August 2: Wonderful Destiny
August 3: The Victory Is His
August 4: Abiding in Freedom
August 5: Reliable Trust
August 6: Healing Wisdom
August 7: Forever Alive
August 8: One Focus
August 9: Joy for Mourning
August 10: Comforting Compassion
August 11: Until the End
August 12: Held Close
August 13: Run to His Heart
August 14: Light to See
August 15: Not Disgraced
August 16: Generosity Returned
August 17: Daily Portion
August 18: Determined Steps
August 19: Test of Time
August 20: Faithful Protector
August 21: Seen and Known
August 22: Better Trust
August 23: Freedom for Captives
August 24: Unseen Hope
August 25: Powerful to Save
August 26: Taken Care Of
August 27: Keep Going
August 28: Mercy Cries Out
August 29: Tenderhearted
August 30: Radiant Truth
August 31: Strong Joy
September
September 1: Live Above Anxiety
September 2: Citizens of Heaven
September 3: Wonderful Plans
September 4: Promise of Life
September 5: Confessed and Forgiven
September 6: Born Again
September 7: Led to Repentance
September 8: Detail Oriented
September 9: Clothed in Dignity
September 10: Good Advice
September 11: Worship Him
September 12: Led by Mercy
September 13: Followed by Goodness
September 14: Keep Me Safe
September 15: Miracles of Mercy
September 16: Carried by Love
September 17: Chosen by Compassion
September 18: Honored by Goodness
September 19: Peace to All
September 20: Glory to God
September 21: Storms Stilled
September 22: Fully Supplied
September 23: Truth Persists
September 24: Covenant Covering
September 25: Cling to God
September 26: Turn to Me
September 27: Blessed to Receive
September 28: Kind God
September 29: Love’s Image
September 30: Heard
October
October 1: Living Expression
October 2: Peace with God
October 3: Kingdom of God
October 4: Watched Over
October 5: Looking Up
October 6: Satisfied in Him
October 7: Answer Me
October 8: Renewed
October 9: Springs of Life
October 10: Dazed with Despair
October 11: Victory
October 12: Kindness Matters
October 13: Grace Given
October 14: Faithful God
October 15: Abundant Peace
October 16: Wholeness in Him
October 17: Dependent on God
October 18: Close to Him
October 19: Accompanied by Love
October 20: Goodness and Mercy
October 21: God of Justice
October 22: Generations of Mercy
October 23: Great Kindness
October 24: God’s People
October 25: Compassion Overflowing
October 26: To Be Known
October 27: My Savior
October 28: Treasured Truth
October 29: Medicine for the Soul
October 30: Met by Compassion
October 31: Completely Covered
November
November 1: Held by Mercy
November 2: Alive in Mercy
November 3: Shine Light
November 4: Alive Together
November 5: Persistent Peace
November 6: Return
November 7: Wonderful Grace
November 8: Lasting Virtues
November 9: Leaning In
November 10: Like Minded
November 11: Kind God
November 12: No More Walls
November 13: Perfect Peace
November 14: Filled to Overflowing
November 15: Ours in Christ
November 16: Glory Coming
November 17: Set on the Spirit
November 18: Led into Truth
November 19: No Wandering
November 20: Persistent Grace
November 21: But God
November 22: At Peace
November 23: Spirit Powered
November 24: Abundantly Blessed
November 25: A Better Way
November 26: Confident Approach
November 27: He Is Better
November 28: Profound Wisdom
November 29: God’s Mouthpiece
November 30: Empowered
December
December 1: Invited
December 2: Kept in Love
December 3: Strength to Stand
December 4: Increased Honor
December 5: Sing for Joy
December 6: Ready Relief
December 7: Thread of Faithfulness
December 8: Weary Comforted
December 9: Never Left
December 10: Father of Mercies
December 11: Unbiased God
December 12: Born into Hope
December 13: Sincere Wisdom
December 14: Better than Sacrifice
December 15: Show Me
December 16: Present Peace
December 17: Freed from Fear
December 18: Healed by Mercy
December 19: The Merciful Way
December 20: Posture of Waiting
December 21: Abundant Love
December 22: Beginning and End
December 23: Defender and Refuge
December 24: Steadfast Love
December 25: God With Us
December 26: Path of Peace
December 27: Hope of the Helpless
December 28: Time to Look
December 29: Not Overwhelmed
December 30: In the Valley
December 31: All Things New
The circumstances of life may have you feeling anxious, overwhelmed, discouraged, or even depressed. Isn’t it encouraging to know that God’s love is not dependent on your situation? Because his love for you is unchanging and his promises are true, you can choose to believe that today will be a good day.
Find the hope, joy, and strength that is abundant in God as you reflect on these devotional entries, Scriptures, and prayers. No matter what comes your way, you can get through it with God at your side. He will never leave you. His unending mercy and grace are always waiting for you.
Rest in the compassion of your good Father. He listens to every word you utter, and he fully understands your heart.
The LORD hears his peoplewhen they call to him for help.He rescues them from all their troubles.
PSALM 34:17 NLT
The LORD himself will go before you.He will be with you;he will not leave you or forget you.Don’t be afraid and don’t worry.
DEUTERONOMY 31:8 NCV
Nowhere in the Bible does it say that we are to strive to do things on our own. In fact, the Word repeatedly reminds us that God partners with the weak and willing and gives them strength. God often meets us where we feel the most vulnerable.
What areas of weakness are you facing right now? Where does fear threaten to keep you immobile? He is with you in the midst of your greatest triumph and your greatest struggle. He has not forgotten about you. He has made a way for you where you have felt confusion and angst. Let go of the worry today and trust that he is at work in the details of your life—every single one of them!
Holy Spirit, I invite you into my weakness today. Give me eyes to see what you are doing as I cling to you. Thank you that I am not alone in any situation. Help me to remember today, above all else, that you are with me.
Why are you in despair, O my soul?And why have you become disturbed within me?Hope in God, for I shall yet praise Him,the help of my countenance and my God.
PSALM 42:11 NASB
We are not immune to feeling discouragement and despair. God, the lifter of our heads, is the source of all the help we need in every season of the soul. When anxiety fills our bodies and worries overshadow the goodness in our lives, we can turn to our good Father who never changes.
When we feel overwhelmed by the worries of this life, let’s take a moment to breathe and direct our soul’s gaze to the one who sees all and is over all. Though we cannot control what will happen in this world, we can focus our hearts on who God is, always has been, and will continue to be.
God, my help, fill me today with your Spirit. Breathe new life into my weary soul, causing hope to rise once again. I fix the eyes of my heart on your goodness and faithfulness for you never fail!
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
We are not promised a pain-free life. No such thing exists! When we face trials and circumstances that oppose our hopes and expectations, what do we do with the desperation we feel? We can come to God with everything, including our fears, anxieties, and doubts.
There is no human experience that is outside of Jesus’ understanding and no situation that is out of God’s reach. When was the last time you cried out to God from a desperate place? Have you been honest with God and yourself? Don’t hold back; you may just find that, in his faithfulness, he will not disappoint you.
Faithful One, I come to you with an open heart today. Let your light shine on the places I have kept hidden from you; I cry out from the depths of my soul for you to rescue me. Meet me in the middle of my mess, bringing order to the chaos. I trust you.
He lifted me out of the pit of despair,out of the mud and the mire.He set my feet on solid groundand steadied me as I walked along.
PSALM 40:2 NLT
Do you feel like you’re drowning under the weight of your circumstances? When darkness makes it hard to see where you’re going, what keeps you from sinking into desperation? You were never meant to rely on your own limited resources to get out of tough situations.
Where you have felt stuck, cry out to God for help. Invite him into the specific places that overwhelm you and watch how he lifts you out of the muck and sets your feet on solid ground. He can do it, and he is faithful to meet you no matter what kind of mess you find yourself in. He rescues his beloved children over and over again.
Father God, I need your help. Show up in my life with your resurrection power, bringing life out of what has felt like death. Fill my heart with hope as I watch your faithfulness unfold before my very eyes.
Anxiety weighs down the heart,but a kind word cheers it up.
PROVERBS 12:25 NIV
When the worries of life weigh down your soul, what do you do? Do you try to soldier on and just get through the day? It is exhausting to try to keep it together when anxiety is coursing through your body.
God is full of kindness and so much gentler than we expect. If we come to him with our burdens, he is faithful to take the weight of them and help us. He never turns away; he does not need to take time to consider whether it’s worth it, for his love knows no limits. We can never reach the end of his incredible kindness. Have you known God in this way? If it feels too good to be true, you’ve stumbled into the goodness of God. He is always better than you expect.
Kind Father, I so easily forget the nature of your goodness especially toward me. Lift the weight of my anxious thoughts and bring peace and clarity to my mind. Fill my body with your love that casts out every fear. May my heart once again know the joy of loving you.
They do not worry about how short life is,because God keeps them busy with what they love to do.
ECCLESIASTES 5:20 NCV
How have you been using your time? In this day and age, it’s so easy to get swept up in the digital world and to pass time without considering what we are filling it with. If you were intentional about doing things you love, what would that look like?
We have one short life on this earth. How we spend our time reflects how we live. Whether intentionally or not, the time passes. Will we live our lives with resolution, our eyes fixed on a goal, or will we just let it pass without engaging in our purpose? God is masterful in his plans. If we yield our lives to him, he is faithful to direct us.
Lord, you hold all my days. You see the end from the beginning and every space in between. I offer you my life again. Restore meaning where I have felt aimless. Ease the worries of my mind with your boundless grace. Your ways are so much better than my own, and you know me better than I know myself. Lead me, Lord.
You, O LORD, are a shield about me,my glory, and the lifter of my head.
PSALM 3:3 ESV
When storms of life rage, where can we find shelter? God’s Word says that he is our help in times of trouble. We can rely on him to guard us and keep us secure. He shields us from the fiery darts of the enemy—the lies that distort our true identity as sons and daughters of the Most High.
When the chaos of life makes it hard to see up from down, God is a steady rock to stand on. His Word is unfailing, and all his promises come to pass. Have you been keeping your head down just trying to survive? God, the lifter of your head, is your strong help. He holds onto you when you don’t have the strength to reach out to him. Lift your eyes to his gaze today, and you will see a loving Father who will never let you go.
God my strength, when I am worn down from the hits that life gives, I need you to hold me up. Be my defender; I can’t fight these battles on my own. I don’t even want to. You, Lord, are faithful and I trust you. Cover me with your love as I lean into your arms today.
We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed;perplexed, but not in despair.
2 CORINTHIANS 4:8 NIV
When the storms of life are harsh and seem unending, we have an opportunity to make a choice. We can either give into despair or hold onto hope, which will cause us to persevere. We don’t do this on our own; rather, we rely on the Holy Spirit who continually fills us with the love of God. It is this unrelenting love that has the strength to overpower every fear.
What is overwhelming in your life right now? Have your thoughts been overcome with worry? Fix your eyes on Jesus Christ and remember his life of love that overcame death and destruction. Your inheritance is life!
Jesus, when I look at your life, I see the evidence of love beyond my greatest imaginings. I set my gaze on you today, remembering that you have overcome the world. With your life in mine, I can overcome too.
He has delivered us from the power of darknessand conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love.
COLOSSIANS 1:13 NKJV
God is deliverer and protector. In him, we find that we are both kept secure and freed to move in liberty. We have been brought from darkness into light, where everything is made clear. Where there seemed to be no way, God made a way for us to be restored in full connection with him through Jesus.
His love never fails. It is the driving force of all creation and what fuels the restoration work he is constantly doing. We belong to a kingdom of love, full of compassion and mercy. There is plenty of room for the weak and the humble; those who struggle always have access to the strength of God through his grace. There is never a circumstance too difficult or a problem too great that God does not already have a solution. As we look to him, we will find that we bear his signature. We have been marked by love.
God over all, you are my deliverer. When I don’t know where to turn and confusion threatens to immobilize me, you step in with your peace and your steady hand guides me. You are full of compassion at every point. Thank you for your deliverance. I depend on you still!
Kind words are like honey—sweet to the souland healthy for the body.
PROVERBS 16:24 NLT
It is amazing how a kind word can crack the hard layer of a heart that is prone to protect itself. When sweet, genuine words are spoken, they build up our souls and encourage our hearts. Proverbs says that they even bring health to our bodies!
When you consider your thought life and the words you speak over yourself, do they reflect the kindness with which your heavenly Father speaks over you? Sometimes it is easier to be kinder to others, but grace given must also be grace received. Do you treat yourself with the same kindness you would treat your loved ones? If not, today is a good day to reconsider your worth.
Holy Spirit, I ask for your awareness today to know what it is that God thinks of me. In light of his great love, give me the grace to be kind to myself, as intentionally loving and patient as I would be with a child. I want to see myself through eyes of love the way you do.
Faith is confidence in what we hope forand assurance about what we do not see.
HEBREWS 11:1 NIV
There is so much change in our lives on a regular basis. It is difficult to know what we can cling to in a world that is always shifting. When it comes down to it, what are the unshakeable tenets of our faith? God, in his love, makes it clear that he is unchanging. Our understanding of his goodness may fluctuate, sometimes multiple times a day, but his character remains constant.
Where does your confidence lie? Are you relying on your own intelligence, strength, and determination to succeed in life? When all else fails, what is left for you to hold onto? If you don’t have an answer for that, let your heart open to the Spirit of wisdom who conveys the mysteries of God to those who ask.
Unchanging One, you are the only constant in a continuously changing world. I ask for your perspective on my life today; I want to see things from your point of view. Let my confidence be in you, not found in something that will inevitably shift. All my hope is in you.
We have freedom now,because Christ made us free.So stand strong.Do not changeand go back into the slavery of the law.
GALATIANS 5:1 NCV
The beautiful reality of the Gospel is that Jesus sacrificed his life so we would be free from the chains of sin and death. He paved a way to the Father so nothing would keep us from him again. Nothing. No hardship, no struggle, no addiction, no wrongs done to us. Nothing can keep us from his great love.
Are you living in the reality of this great freedom? You have the choice to live unbound with nothing holding you back from God’s persistent grace. You have been welcomed into God’s family as a dearly loved child. You are not a weird, estranged cousin in the family of God; you are his. You belong to him. No wall, no chains, no fear, and no doubt can keep you from him. He has set you free. So, be free.
God, your relentless grace has covered my life and set me free to choose my way. My past does not dictate my future, nor do my struggles get to direct my life. I align myself with you and your kingdom today. May your freedom reign in my life, opening up what was once restricted.
From his fullnesswe have all received, grace upon grace.
JOHN 1:16 NRSV
In the whirlwind of life, it is so easy to feel depleted. There is always more to do, further needs to be met, and seemingly endless demands on our attention and time. We were never intended to live in a constant state of lack. Our God is full of abundance with everything we could ever need.
Your Father is full of grace for every moment of your life; He never runs out. Your brokenness is not too much for him, and your weakness does not disturb him. In his heart of love, there is everything you need for healing. He has already made accessible to you every tool you need to succeed, for he is the source of all life. Come and be filled!
God of abundance, in you is all I am longing for and everything I need. Fill me up with your grace that empowers me to live connected to you. I need you more than I know how to express. Meet me with your unfailing love today.
We don’t focus our attention on what is seen but on what is unseen.For what is seen is temporary, but the unseen realm is eternal.
2 CORINTHIANS 4:18 TPT
What we focus our attention on matters. God’s kingdom is full of the treasures found in his unfailing love. When we spend our time caught up in the changing circumstances of our lives without grounding ourselves in the reality of eternity, it can be overwhelming.
When we shift our awareness to God’s character, we are looking with eyes that see the promise of his kingdom come because he is faithful to do all he said he would. Let us fix our eyes on God, the author and perfecter of our faith. He never wavers in kindness, and his compassion never ends. They are as eternal as God himself. When we look for evidence of his goodness, we will surely find it.
Lord, help me to fix my eyes on you and on eternity rather than on the momentary troubles around me. Give me your perspective, so I may see the way you do. Fill my thoughts with yours, Lord, and make me more like you.
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened,and I will give you rest.”
MATTHEW 11:28 NIV
When you find yourself overextended and exhausted, what do you do? Do the worries of life spill over from one day to the next, adding layer upon layer until you feel like you can’t take another step? Jesus invites you to come to him and lay down your heavy burdens. He is able to give you the rest that you long for as he does all the heavy lifting.
Don’t hesitate to approach him with all you have; he is waiting with open arms. He is full of kindness, not a lecture that you’re dreading. Let his gentleness surprise you as you offer him your heaviness and he fills you with light and life! Come and find rest in him today.
Kind Father, I come to you today with all the heaviness I’ve been carrying. I can’t keep going on this way. Lift my burdens and fill me with the peace that gives true rest to my soul. I need you.
My life’s strength melts away with grief and sadness;come strengthen me and encourage me with your words.
PSALM 119:28 TPT
Sometimes the stresses of life, even the small, mundane, and ordinary things, feel like too much to face. Have you been relying on your own motivation to get through the recent days and weeks? Or has sadness stripped away any desire to do anything outside of what’s necessary?
God is faithful to give us strength in our weakness—every single one. There is not a day where we are left on our own to figure things out. His grace is always available to empower and strengthen us, though that may not look like getting done everything we’d hoped. His strength carries us. When we are stripped of the enthusiasm we once had for life, we must adjust our expectations of what strength looks like. What would personal and profound encouragement from the Lord look like for you today?
Holy One, you are the strength that carries me through my darkest days. I won’t worry about what tomorrow will bring; today, I fix my eyes on you. Come strengthen and encourage me like only you can.
The helpless has hope,and unrighteousness must shut its mouth.
JOB 5:16 NASB
As children are completely dependent on their parents to provide what they cannot, so are we dependent on God. For some of us, it is harder to lean into our needs. When we find ourselves out of our depths and overcome with helplessness, where do we turn? There are some circumstances that can’t be fixed by anything we could even dream of offering.
Where is our hope then? Is it in our own strength and capabilities, or does it lie in the one who formed us and all things around us? The Creator’s character is flawless and his faithfulness is unmatched. This limited life is not where the fulfillment of our expectation will be found though we have sweet glimpses of our eternal hope. There is coming a day where there will be no more tears or sadness, and the old will have passed away. Where does your confidence lie?
God over all, you are bigger than I can fathom. I’m so grateful that you see from a higher perspective than I do. I ask for your holy hope to fill my heart today with the confidence of your goodness. You are worthy!
For God alone, O my soul, wait in silence,for my hope is from him.
PSALM 62:5 ESV
Sometimes waiting feels like sitting in a fluorescent-lit office, anticipating your name being called. Other times, it is more like fighting a battle, awaiting reinforcements to come refuel your waning resources and help turn the tide of the war. Whatever waiting looks like for you today, are you anticipating God’s response?
There is so much strength and hope to be found in him no matter how long your wait ends up being. Yield your heart to him today, giving him space to speak his words of life. He delights over you with songs of deliverance. You will not be disappointed in the way he pulls off redemption in your life.
God, I wait for you. When everything feels endless and barren, draw near and fill me with the fruit of your presence that never dissatisfies. You are so good; I cling to that reminder today. I quiet my heart before you now. Come and speak to me again.
“That is why I tell you not to worry about everyday life—whether you have enough food to eat or enough clothes to wear.”
LUKE 12:22 NLT
Have you ever taken inventory of the worries that fill your mind? How many of them are based on what will happen today? The thing about worry is that it is often caught up in what-ifs and scenarios that may or may not ever happen. Often they are based in the future, and much of it far off.
Jesus, when speaking to his disciples, said that we should not worry about everyday life. We will have what we need when we need it. There is always enough. What have you been worrying about that is simply draining your energy? Can you trust God today to provide for everything you need? He is always on time. Think through your life. Have there been times when you were worried about something and it ended up working out? Thank God for his faithfulness. He hasn’t changed.
Father, I can see how you have provided for me before, and I believe that you will do it again. I trust that you are sufficient for me and that you’re never late. Fill my thoughts with your goodness.
Banish anxiety from your heartand cast off the troubles of your body,for youth and vigor are meaningless.
ECCLESIASTES 11:10 NIV
There is no way to avoid troubles in this life. They come, as surely as the seasons change. Anxieties mount as we consider how ill-equipped we are to face the challenges. Our bodies react to the uncertainties we face. But this is not where our stories end. We are not destined to cycles of uncontrollable angst. The creator of our bodies, minds and souls is full of peace that he freely gives.
When was the last time you felt God’s presence calm your anxious thoughts and bring peace to your hurried mind? The Spirit gives comfort and can fill you with the unfailing love of God that pushes fear aside. If you find yourself worried, ask the Lord to draw near in his presence. He is faithful to come.
Holy Spirit, come fill me with the power of your presence. Bring peace to my anxious heart and calm my hurried mind. I rely on you. I cannot do it on my own, and I’m so glad that I don’t have to. You are welcome to have your way in me, Lord, for I belong to you.
I would have despaired unless I had believedthat I would see the goodness of the LORDin the land of the living.
PSALM 27:13 NASB
We have such a great hope in what awaits us after this short life; yet, it doesn’t feel like enough to only hope for what feels so incredibly intangible. We need to know goodness now. God is in the business of restoration! He deals in mending the wounded, binding up the brokenhearted, and bringing life out of dead things. He never gives up or throws his hands up declaring something out of his reach.
If it feels like the end for you, it is not. God always has a better plan. Plot twists come, but his faithfulness never wavers. When was the last time you saw the goodness of God show up tangibly in your life? Where there is disappointment in your heart, there is also an invitation for God’s powerful presence to shift your perspective.
Good Father, I admit that I have felt the desperation of hard circumstances in my life. I have to believe that I will see your goodness again! Give me eyes to see that you are moving, even now, and tenacity to hold onto hope when it is difficult to decipher what you are doing.
We can say with confidence, “The LORD is my helper,so I will have no fear. What can mere people do to me?”
HEBREWS 13:6 NLT
There are some situations that are completely out of our control. We cannot dictate the outcomes, and it sometimes seems that whatever we try to do to help only intensifies the issues. What then should we do? We don’t need to be in control to be at peace. God is our help in every single circumstance.
God cannot be confused or confounded. Your troubles are not too complex for him to handle. In his perfect wisdom, he always knows exactly what to do. Will you trust him to do what you can’t? Will you relent your need to fix and let him be your help? He is more than capable in this, and every, situation.
Lord, you are my willing help in every hour of need. You never withdraw your presence, leaving me to figure things out on my own. I surrender my need to control and let you take the reins. You are always faithful. My confidence lies in you.
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
Failure is not a sin but an eventuality of humanity. It’s ok to try and not succeed; it is not a character flaw to be imperfect. When we do make mistakes that affect both others and us in hurtful ways, there is so much grace. Not just enough grace but plentiful mercy that overflows!
When we humbly approach God, there is unfailing love that meets us every time. He doesn’t sometimes encounter us with kindness and other times with harsh discipline. Even his correction is drenched in compassion. Let us not lose heart in approaching God at every opportunity. His tender heart is full of power to heal, refine, and liberate.
God, I come to you with a humble heart, longing for your tender mercy to meet me again. I cannot test the limits of your compassion. There are no boundaries to your love. I offer myself as your own again; fill me with the power of your presence that sets me free.
Those who sow in tearsshall reap with shouts of joy.
PSALM 126:5 ESV
When we are overcome by sadness, the Comforter is close. There is no escaping pain in this life; it finds each one of us in time. Broken promises, the loss of loved ones, and dashed hopes are all situations that we face. Even so, God is not surprised, and he is not distant.
Jesus was acquainted with suffering and familiar with pain. He did not require his followers to deny the reality of their circumstances; rather, he offered them hope in healing, joy in restoration, and the incredible satisfaction of right relationship with God. Whatever sorrows we are facing now will pale in comparison to the joy that is coming!
Lord, I cannot deny the sadness of my heart in heartbreak and in despair. In your goodness, touch me with the liquid love of your presence. Comfort me and revive my weary heart. There is no one who can do it, but I know that you can. Give me perspective to see that this suffering is temporary but your joy is eternal.
“I, I am the LORD, and besides me there is no savior. I declared and savedand proclaimed, when there was no strange god among you; and youare my witnesses,” declares the LORD, “and I am God.
ISAIAH 43:11-12 ESV
When the drudgery of life wears down our defenses and we are left feeling vulnerable and raw, what is our response? Do we just try harder? Do we hunker down and keep going, hoping that at some point things will change? Unless we have help, there is certainly little hope for transformation.
When our reserves are tapped, we can’t be expected to thrive. However, God is the source of every good thing and he never runs out or runs dry. He is the help we need and the Savior that continually comes through for us. Where we feel overwhelmed and under fire from every side, may we call out to our faithful God who rescues us.
Faithful One, I depend on you for help in every trouble I face. I cannot save myself. You know how I’ve tried! Don’t stop showing off in power, and please don’t ever stop reaching out in mercy. I am yours. Fill my heart with the confidence of your closeness.
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 does not shy away from the reality of our lives or neglect the weariness that can erode our hope. He is not afraid of our big emotions, and he doesn’t require us to get it all together before we come to him. In fact, he is the source where we will find the refreshing we are so desperate for.
Are you tired? Is sadness a constant companion these days? God does not promise us a pain-free existence, but he does vow to comfort us and empower us to life. Where your strength is depleted, invite the presence of God to cover you with his love. He will not fail to meet you with the power of his nearness. His love is better than anything else you can taste or experience in this world. May his compassion be your comfort and your deepest delight.
Merciful God, meet me in my weakness and empower me with your Spirit. You refresh me when I am completely depleted. Do it again, Lord.
Oh that I might have my request,and that God would fulfill my hope.
JOB 6:8 ESV
How are your levels of hope these days? Do you have confident expectation of God’s faithful witness in your life or are you struggling to believe that you will see his goodness at all? There is no wrong answer; God’s faithfulness is not dependent on your faith. He is constant and unchanging, no matter what is or isn’t a present reality in your life.
May your heart take courage in the loyalty of God to his own Word. He has not failed his children, and he won’t fail you. Though troubles and trials come, the promise of the Lord is not thrown off track. God is the fulfiller of dreams. Submit your heart to him again, whether you are full of hope or desperately hanging on to a thread of it. He will prove true to you. His tender mercy is yours in every moment.
Good God, even when I struggle to hope, you remain constant. What a relief that I can’t talk you out of your faithfulness. I give you access to my heart again, and ask that you would breathe peace, hope, and love into my being. As I wait on you, I will find strength. You meet me in the middle of every moment.
Preserve me, O God,for in you I put my trust.
PSALM 16:1 NKJV
What does active trust look like? Is it blind hope that keeps its fingers crossed throughout the hard times? Is it a continual surrender of our own control and belief that God will stay true to his nature? It is so much more than a one-time statement of faith. As we practice placing our hope in God over and over again, our confidence will grow as he continues to show up in faithfulness.
God is a refuge to those who seek shelter in his name. He preserves and keeps us safe in his mercy. What he gives no one and nothing can take away: no storm, no evil person, no hateful act, no betrayal. He is dependable in compassion and reliable in love!
Father, I continually put my trust in you. You know my heart and how it fluctuates, but I am grateful that you never change even when I do. Meet me with your loyal love and fill me with everything I need for today.
The Lord alone is our radiant hopeand we trust in him with all our hearts.His wrap-around presence will strengthen us.
PSALM 33:22 TPT
When nothing seems to be going right, and we are overwhelmed by all that needs to be done, it can be hard to not spiral in worry. But God is our sure help in every season. When we rely on our own limited strategies to get us through, they will only take us so far. God’s wisdom is better, and it is the perfect solution to every problem we encounter.
In our weakness, God meets us with the power of his presence and strengthens us. His Spirit wraps around us with the warmth of his love that embraces us. We find our hope in this place. He is the sweetest treasure in this life. His goodness is ever increasing. We have not seen the end of it. Let us trust him with all our hearts.
Lord, fill my heart with hope as I look to you. You surround me with your presence and my heart comes alive. I want to know you more today. Encourage my soul in the way that only you can.
I rise before dawn and cry for help;I put my hope in your words.
PSALM 119:147 NRSV
In the restlessness of endless thoughts that won’t quit, worry sometimes leads to sleepless nights. When we cannot calm our minds, we have access to the giver of all peace. His presence is pure love; he comforts us in the middle of our mess, whether in the dark of night or the light of day. He is always available.
Are you struggling to find peace? Look into God’s Word and you will find hope in his faithful character. He never fails, and he won’t start now. Cry out for help and listen for his reply. He will answer you. He is not silent. When it is hard to hear, look for the mercy and kindness you may be resisting. It is clearly laid out in his Word. Seek and you’ll find it.