The Journey from Anxiety to Trusting God

Posted on April 1, 2026 by daaorg1214

Rezi is 43 now, and something peculiar has been happening to her since she was old enough to remember it. During the wee hours of the morning, just before she’s fully conscious, a rush of ideas flashes through her mind. It’s as if her subconscious takes over, flooding her thoughts with flashes of inspiration, new projects, and creative breakthroughs. Sometimes they are so vivid that she can almost see them in full detail. As a child, she became a collector of beautiful and odd things, certain she’d need them as she tried to bring her visions to life.

Over the years, Rezi has tried many things to capture the dreams and visions she receives. Naturally creative, those who know her have been dazzled by her ingenuity and artistic flair. Yet, after her thirties, her enthusiasm began to wane. Like many of us, life has been no joke for her. Her oldest brother, who she loved deeply, was tragically killed in a car accident, and the grief from that loss has cast a long shadow over her life. Her parents were devastated by the loss of their son. They’ve never fully recovered, and the weight of their ongoing ailments has only deepened Rezi’s own sense of helplessness.

In the years that followed, Rezi found herself sinking deeper into anxiety. The idea of losing another loved one, particularly her son or husband, often keeps her up at all hours of the night. She fears she might not ever feel the peace she once knew, worry seems to hang over her like a dark cloud, one that she can’t seem to shake.

The dreams that were once a source of inspiration and wonder, now feel like distant memories. The creative fire that once burned so brightly has become smothered by the weight of her fears and responsibilities. She feels defeated but keeps it hidden from her family. “Let go and let God.” Those are the words she hears reverberating in her head, but in her heart, she doesn’t think she’ll be able to do it. The trust she once had in His peace and guidance seems so far out of reach now.

In 1 Corinthians 13:11 (NLT), the Apostle Paul said: “When I was a child, I spoke and thought and reasoned as a child. But when I grew up, I put away childish things.” Paul was speaking about spiritual maturity. It’s the progression that occurs as we grow in understanding and faith. It’s how our understanding and perspective changes as we grow spiritually. Just as we mature physically and emotionally, our relationship with God calls for spiritual maturity. We move beyond the limited thinking of our younger years and embrace a deeper trust in God’s plan for our lives.

Responsibilities change us in ways we don’t fully comprehend. Life teaches us that we can’t think and reason childishly if we want to keep pace. Our problem is that we abandon those parts of us that keep us humbly seeking God. They keep us from depending on Him with unwavering faith in His love and power.

Jesus Christ said in Matthew 18:3-4 (NLT): “3 Then he said, “I tell you the truth, unless you turn from your sins and become like little children, you will never get into the Kingdom of Heaven. 4 So anyone who becomes as humble as this little child is the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven.” He calls us to embrace humility and trust in our Heavenly Father in the way a little child humbly trusts their parents. We are to approach God with this same simplicity, openness, and dependence that children naturally have. This level of humility is a conscious choice that you and I must make. It’s in us, and we must choose to allow it to rule our hearts and minds rather than allowing fear and doubt to become a lifestyle.

We can become so disconnected from a sense of wonder and enthusiasm about God and His willingness to bless us that we somehow trust worry over joy and fear over hope. The truth is that only we can make the decision to reverse this for ourselves. We must consciously choose to let God’s love win in our hearts and then choose to walk in that victory every moment of each day. As Paul encourages us in Philippians 4:6-7 (NLT): “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.” By choosing to place our worries in God’s hands, we can embrace the peace that surpasses all understanding and allow it to guide us toward joy and hope.

Romans 8:37 (NLT) tells us: “No, despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours through Christ, who loved us.” Philippians 4:13 declares that we can do all things through Christ who gives us strength. Putting away childish things means putting away anything that interferes with us being fully persuaded in our privilege and responsibility to trust God with all that we are. We cannot allow ourselves to become slaves to fear and doubt; that is not a mark of the spiritually mature.

Our need to control cannot exceed our requirement to honor God through our faith in Him. True spiritual maturity is found when we move beyond the fears and limitations that once held us back. It’s when we make the choice to trust that God is in control, and He is faithful to care for us. So, we must always remember that His plans for us are greater than anything we can plan for ourselves. We can rest in His safety and walk in peace as we trust His love, His wisdom, and His protection. ■

Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Wheaton, Illinois 60189. All rights reserved.

When Your Plans Don’t Work Out

Posted on March 18, 2026 by daaorg1214

Proverbs 19:21 (NLT) tells us, “You can make many plans, but the LORD’s purpose will prevail.” This verse is so plain and straightforward, and most of us have heard it many times. While we know that the Will of God will always prevail in exactly the way that God has planned, feelings of dissatisfaction may cause us to wonder if we really understand this truth. When we’ve carried certain dreams in our hearts for years, and they still seem out of reach, those feelings of regret and frustration can be overwhelming. It’s especially tough when we get to a point in life where it feels like time is running out, and we wonder if we’ve missed our chance. You’ve spent years trying to put the pieces of life’s puzzle together, but somewhere along the way, it just seems like some of those pieces went missing.

Being frustrated with how our lives have turned out is not uncommon, especially as the years pass. I remembered those feelings when I heard Doris share her feelings about an unfulfilled dream. She just celebrated her 50^th birthday and described herself as a woman with a heart full of love. For as long as she can remember, Doris envisioned herself with a family of her own and has dreamed of a husband to share life’s ups and downs. She desperately wanted children to raise, and a home full of love, but somehow, it hasn’t worked out that way. Instead, she finds herself single, with no children, and wondering where things went wrong.

Her life has been full of love and purpose, even if it didn’t unfold in the way she had always imagined. Doris has poured her heart into her nieces and nephews, showering them with affection and support. She’s been there for every milestone, every challenge, and every victory. They count on her and know that she’s always ready to lend a hand and share her wisdom. But even with all this love surrounding her, there’s a quiet, nagging emptiness that she can’t seem to shake. At the end of the day, when the laughter dies down and the house grows still, she’s left wondering if it’s too late for her dreams. She shared—almost reluctantly—that sometimes she wonders if God has forgotten about her, or if maybe her faith just isn’t strong enough.

If you’re like Doris, you’ve probably had a moment where it feels like life just didn’t do you right, and it hurts. It hurts our feelings to have dreams and expectations that don’t turn out how we planned. Maybe you’ve been single longer than you expected, or your career didn’t take off in the way you hoped. Perhaps your health hasn’t improved even though you’re doing everything you know to do. Or, could it be that you’ve missed out on something you deeply desired. You look around and think, Lord, are You still with me? Did I miss something?

You must remember that when it comes to God’s love for you, there are no limitations. He hasn’t forgotten about you. His plans for us are always bigger, better, and far beyond what we could ever dream up on our own. You might not see it now, but He’s working in ways you can’t fully comprehend. As His Word tells us in 1 Corinthians 2:9 (NLT): “No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him.” His plans for you are beyond anything you could ever imagine. You can trust this with your whole heart.

Ephesians 2:10 (NLT) reminds us, “For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.” There isn’t anything about us that God doesn’t know. Long before we entered our mother’s womb, He knew the exact moment of our births and what we’d be doing this very moment. He knows our next breath, thought, and deed. We can be assured that our Heavenly Father isn’t sitting back, watching us from a distance. He’s with us every moment, and He has woven our story with His purpose and love, even when it doesn’t seem that way to us.

When life doesn’t go according to our plan, disappointment is a real thing. In fact, it’s part of the human experience. If you think about it, even our precious Lord and Savior had moments of sorrow and anguish. He wasn’t exempt from feelings of frustration or hurt. So, it’s okay to feel like things didn’t work out the way you wanted them to, and God doesn’t abandon us when we feel this way. Psalm 34:18 (NLT) says, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed.” You can be comforted in the truth that God sees your pain, and He is close to the brokenhearted.

Jeremiah 29:11 (NLT) is a verse we hear often, but not nearly often enough. Our Heavenly Father told His people living in Old Testament times: “For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” He is the same God today that He was then, and He does not change. So, when your plans don’t work out, remember that God’s plans are still in motion. His version of good might look different from yours, but trust that it’s infinitely better.

Doris’s story isn’t over. Neither is yours. There are things you may not see right now—purposeful delays, unexpected detours, and quiet moments where God is shaping your heart to receive His best. The love we pour into others, our devotion to God, and our efforts to live rightly before Him are not in vain. Galatians 6:9 (NLT) encourages us: “So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up.” God will reward our faithfulness. So, hold on to your faith, knowing that there’s still so much ahead. Stay hopeful and watch how God will move powerfully in your life, bringing blessings that exceed your expectations. ■

Background of a beautiful Wheat field and blue sky with the words of Matthew 9:38 in the foreground.

Becoming the Blessing You Were Meant to Be

Posted on March 10, 2026 by daaorg1214

Each of us was created for a specific purpose, designed by God to be a blessing in this world. This isn’t a random thing; it was part of God’s plan from the very beginning. Ephesians 2:10 (NLT) says, “For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.” You were made with intention, and before you even took your first breath, God knew exactly what you were meant to do. This is your divine calling. It’s not just about the things you will accomplish—it’s about becoming the person you were always meant to be, one who reflects God’s love and blessing to those He has ordained to cross your path.

Romans 8:29-30 (NLT) deepens our understanding of this purpose by showing us that we were chosen to become like Christ: “For God knew his people in advance, and he chose them to become like his Son, so that his Son would be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. And having chosen them, he called them to come to him. And having called them, he gave them right standing with himself. And having given them right standing, he gave them his glory.” This transformation into Christ’s likeness is the heart of our calling. It’s not just about what we do—it’s about who we become. Our purpose is not to live for ourselves but to reflect Christ’s love, compassion, and generosity to those around us. It’s through this transformation that we fulfill the unique role God has for us, bringing His Kingdom to earth through our lives.

The path to the abundance of God’s blessings begins with fulfilling this purpose. Everything God does is in perfect order, and when we align our lives with His Will, we open ourselves to the full range of blessings He has prepared for us. As 1 Corinthians 14:33 (NLT) affirms, “For God is not a God of disorder but of peace, as in all the meetings of God’s holy people.” There is a divine order to our lives, and part of our responsibility as God’s children is to live in accordance with His plan. We may not have all the details right away, and that’s why we’re commanded in His Word to seek Him and His righteousness first. God reveals more about our purpose and the path of success that He’s laid before us as we walk with Him step by step. As we seek Him with all our hearts, He promises that He will reward us. Hebrews 11:6 (NKJV) says, “But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.” Blessings flow continuously as we diligently seek to know God’s Will through His Word.

Along this journey, there are people who are part of your divine calling, people you are destined to influence and bless. Your life is meant to touch others. Galatians 6:9-10 (NLT) encourages us, “So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up. Therefore, whenever we have the opportunity, we should do good to everyone—especially to those in the family of faith.” You were not placed in this world simply to receive—God has positioned you to be a source of blessing, a light to those around you. The acts of kindness, encouragement, and love you offer to others will come back to you in ways you can’t imagine. Our Heavenly Father sets us up to be an overflowing and never-ceasing fountain of giving and receiving His love in multiple ways. Being a blessing causes us to step into and maintain this flow.

When we become born again, something powerful happens: the Holy Spirit comes to dwell within us. This is a life-changing truth. The same Spirit that raised Christ from the dead now lives inside of us, empowering us to do good and to be a blessing. Ephesians 1:3 (NLT) tells us, “All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly realms because we are united with Christ.” All the spiritual blessings we need are already ours—every ounce of power, love, wisdom, and grace is available to us through the Holy Spirit. But this power is not meant to stay bundled up within. No. It’s meant to flow out. We are to take these blessings and use them to bless others. The more we give of ourselves, the more we grow, the more we experience God’s abundance. As we pour into others, God pours into us.

This is how we create a landing strip for God’s blessings to land in our lives. Think of it as an open space that welcomes the fullness of His favor. Just like a runway where a plane can safely land, our lives become a place where God’s blessings can freely flow. This is what happens when we live according to His Will. When we’re generous with our time, love, and resources, we make room for God to do great things in us and through us, by positioning ourselves in alignment with what He has purposed us to do and who He has purposed us to be.

Blessings will chase us down. As we step into the purpose God has set before us, His provision and favor follow. This is not a promise of a perfect, problem-free life, but it is the assurance that when we live according to God’s Will, His blessings will find us, pursue us, and overtake us. The more we focus on being a blessing to others, the more we find ourselves overwhelmed by God’s goodness. It’s the kind of blessing that we can’t contain, that spills over into every area of our lives.

You were meant to be a blessing. Not just to receive, but to give—to pour out what God has poured into you. This is the divine purpose that you were created for. The more you step into it, the more you will see God’s blessings manifest in your life. Become the blessing you were always meant to be. Your life will not only be changed, but the lives of others will be impacted for God’s Kingdom, and this will bring Him great pleasure. ■

Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Wheaton, Illinois 60189. All rights reserved.

Healing Doesn’t Always Look Like You Thought

Posted on January 14, 2026 by daaorg1214

We often pray for healing expecting something neat—something quick, quiet, and painless. We might imagine the pain vanishing overnight and the broken places snapping back together like they never fell apart. But God’s healing rarely follows the script we write. It runs deeper. And sometimes, it brings to the surface things we didn’t even realize we buried.

The process starts when we stop hiding. And that’s a big one. Let’s face it, it’s a lot easier to assume that God is delaying the breakthrough—blessing—restoration—rather than facing that our fears are blocking us from receiving the treasure internally. And make no mistake, internally is where it hits first. All that business about creating a landscape for the blessing to land? That’s real. That’s truth. And we have to be really clear about this.

We can’t heal from what we refuse to acknowledge. It takes courage to sit before God and say, “This still hurts,” or “I thought I was over that, but I’m not.” David got honest with God, and that’s where his healing began. He said in Psalm 32:5 (NLT), “Finally, I confessed all my sins to you and stopped trying to hide my guilt… And you forgave me! All my guilt is gone.” Restoration begins when we stop pretending and start allowing God into the places we’d rather ignore.

The hardest part is unlearning the timelines we gave ourselves. We tell ourselves things like, “I should be past this by now,” or “I can’t still be crying over that.” But God is not bound to our deadlines. His timing is perfect, even when it feels slow. Ecclesiastes 3:11 (NLT) reminds us, “Yet God has made everything beautiful for its own time.” Your healing is not on pause. It’s just unfolding on heaven’s schedule. And even if you don’t see change on the surface, God is still moving in the hidden places.

Real healing touches the soul before it ever reaches the surface. God isn’t only concerned about what happened to you—He’s also healing what happened inside of you. That’s why the healing process can feel so unfamiliar. It’s not just about fixing what’s broken—it’s about becoming who He designed you to be. Psalm 147:3 (NLT) tells us, “He heals the brokenhearted and bandages their wounds.” That’s a promise you can rest in, even when things feel heavy. Even when you don’t feel strong.

And let’s be honest—God’s process can stretch us. We’re often blind to the things we need to see. We think we can continue year after year being the person we’ve always been—handling life the way we’ve always handled it. Recognizing we have to show up differently is no joke. Not only do we have to acknowledge the fear that’s been hiding out in our secret places, we have to confront it.

Our first inclination is to say “Fear? I don’t have it.” The reality is that fear has many forms, and all pain and darkness emanate from it. It’s the thing that doesn’t allow us to have real and lasting peace. It can masquerade as confidence while it burrows deeper into our core. Sometimes it sounds like control. Other times it hides behind a busy life or a smile that’s been rehearsed too well. But underneath the performance is a heart that’s bracing itself—waiting for the next blow, unsure if it can handle another disappointment.

God didn’t call us to live like that. In fact, 2 Timothy 1:7 (NLT) tells us plainly, “For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.” That means fear doesn’t come from Him. And if it didn’t come from Him, we shouldn’t keep accepting it like it belongs in our story. It doesn’t. And when we see it for what it is, we stop resisting and start repenting—praying—being monumentally grateful that we were once blind but now we see.

It can feel uncomfortable and unfamiliar. But just because it feels strange doesn’t mean it’s not sacred. In fact, the very things you think are detours might be part of the path God is using to set you free. Isaiah 43:19 (NLT) says, “For I am about to do something new. See, I have already begun! Do you not see it?” He’s doing something new in you—even if it’s quiet, even if it’s slow, even if it’s not what you expected.

So give yourself grace. Stop demanding perfection from yourself while you’re in the middle of being transformed. You’re not weak because you’re still healing—you’re brave because you’re still laying bare before Him. God isn’t asking you to have it all together. He’s asking you to trust Him with the pieces. That’s why Paul could write in 2 Corinthians 12:9 (NLT), “Each time he said, ‘My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.’” So let His power hold you up when your own strength runs out.

No, healing doesn’t always look like you thought it would. But that doesn’t make it any less holy. Sometimes, the most powerful breakthroughs happen when you feel the weakest. And sometimes, the most beautiful restoration is born out of what felt like the hardest parts of the journey. So keep walking. Keep surrendering. Let God finish what He started in you. Because on the other side of this, you’ll look back and see—He wasn’t just healing you. He was transforming you into who He created you to be in Christ—stronger, full of grace, and free. ■

Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Wheaton, Illinois 60189. All rights reserved.

From Shattered to Surrendered

Posted on January 7, 2026 by daaorg1214

How God Rebuilds What Life Broke

Sometimes life breaks you, and it’s not in a graceful, soft-tears kind of way—but in the real, gut-wrenching way. It leaves you picking up pieces you don’t even recognize anymore. You sit in the ruins of what was, whispering prayers you’re not even sure you believe. But even in the middle of all that pain, God is not far off. He’s not waiting for you to pull it together—He’s close. Psalm 34:18 says, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed.” That’s not just a comforting thought—it’s a promise. He draws near to us when our hearts are breaking. He steps into the ache, not around it. He doesn’t need your strength to start His healing. He just needs your honesty.

But before the healing comes, there’s usually a fight. We don’t always talk about the wrestling, but it’s real. Wrestling with grief, loss, and unanswered prayers is no joke. When you combine that with the fear that maybe this time things won’t turn around, a deep sadness can set in like a huge stone sinking in your chest.

And sometimes we even wrestle with God—not in rebellion, but in desperation. Jacob did it too. And in that holy struggle, Genesis 32:26 (NLT) tells us he said, “I will not let you go unless you bless me.” That’s what surrender starts to sound like. It’s not passive or polished—its persistent, raw, and real. You can bring your questions, your confusion, your frustration to God. He can handle it. And often, it’s in that tension—when you feel as though you might break into a thousand pieces—that transformation begins.

Letting Go So God Can Build

Eventually, the fight gives way to surrender. Not the kind that feels like giving up—but the kind that feels like finally breathing. Like letting your shoulders drop. Like whispering, “God, I don’t know what’s next, but I trust that You do.” That kind of surrender isn’t weak—it’s wise. It’s what happens when your will finally bows to His love. 1 Peter 5:7 (NLT) says, “Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.” This isn’t only the cares you’ve already figured out. It’s not just the ones that look “neat enough” for prayer. God wants us to bring all cares to Him, recognizing that there’s nothing He can’t handle.

Surrender sounds like, “I can’t carry this anymore.” But the truth is—we were never supposed to. That’s the holy shift we need to make in mind and heart. It’s going from trying to grip so tightly to control—to letting God take the lead. We go from pushing and striving to finally resting in the hands that shaped us.

We must trust—with everything in us—that our Heavenly Father doesn’t leave surrendered things broken. He rebuilds. He restores. He renews. Not always the way we imagined, but always with purpose. Joel 2:25 says, “I will give you back what you lost to the swarming locusts.” That’s not just restoration—it’s redemption. God specializes in what feels impossible. He rebuilds what life tried to tear apart. But His rebuilding isn’t rushed. It’s sacred. Brick by brick. Moment by moment. Whether it happens in the quiet or through community, His work is always done in love. And the beautiful thing about letting Him rebuild is that He doesn’t just restore what was—He creates something better than you ever knew to ask for. ■

When Life Happens

Posted on December 31, 2025 by daaorg1214

Hebrews 12:11 (NLT) tells us: “No discipline is enjoyable while it is happening – it’s painful! But afterward there will be a peaceful harvest of right living for those who are trained in this way.” This verse informs us that God is very much aware that discipline isn’t fun; it can be uncomfortable and even painful. However, the reality is that discipline is a necessary and unavoidable part of the Christian life. During the process, we might be tempted to have a pity party or believe that others have it better and that the grass is greener on the other side. Thinking this way might offer temporary relief, but it will not change the fact that discipline opens the door wide to growth in Christ. It’s crucial that we view it this way.

God’s discipline might lead us to fall back into old habits and questions like, “What did I do to make God angry with me?” We might revert to attitudes that suggest God is punishing us, but this is not the truth. Regarding God’s unconditional love for us, 1 John 4:18 (NLT) says, “Such love has no fear, because perfect love expels all fear. If we are afraid, it is for fear of punishment, and this shows that we have not fully experienced his perfect love.” God’s love drives out fear, and if we are still afraid, it is due to our worries about punishment. By loving and honoring our Heavenly Father, we can move beyond these fears and trust in His perfect love.

Although we might have witnessed or endured domestic violence and abuse from childhood well into adulthood, that is not a space we should call home. Domestic violence and abuse is not God’s discipline, make no mistake about that. Living in fear is never where God wants us to be. Instead, He wants us to live continually in His love, protection, and care. He doesn’t inflict pain on us. He is a loving Father who disciplines His kids because He cares about us and wants us to lead fulfilling lives. Psalm 103:8-12 (NLT) beautifully expresses this: “8 The LORD is compassionate and merciful, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love. 9 He will not constantly accuse us, nor remain angry forever. 10 He does not punish us for all our sins; he does not deal harshly with us, as we deserve. 11 For his unfailing love toward those who fear him is as great as the height of the heavens above the earth. 12 He has removed our sins as far from us as the east is from the west.”

1 John 1:5 (NLT) declares, “This is the message we heard from Jesus and now declare to you: God is light, and there is no darkness in him at all.” God doesn’t cause our troubles and tribulations, but through them, He opens our eyes. We may have been walking around with blinders, unable to see the goodness of His faithfulness and promises, or to be guided along the path of our purpose in Christ. We must recognize that through our brokenness and pain, He illuminates the victory that faith in Him will ultimately win for us.

Life happens—we make mistakes, and sometimes things go terribly wrong. Facing these situations is never easy, but it’s often in these challenging moments that God’s light shines the brightest. They offer us a clearer view of the times where we didn’t trust Him as wholeheartedly as we should have. It’s important to understand that domestic violence, abuse, and fear are not signs of divine discipline; they’re just harsh realities that don’t reflect God’s love and Will for us. Our true home is with our Heavenly Father, and when life happens to throw obstacles our way, we can move through them by trusting His sovereignty, grace, and power.

In Isaiah 43:19 (NLT), He said, “For I am about to do something new. See, I have already begun! Do you not see it? I will make a pathway through the wilderness. I will create rivers in the dry wasteland.” Even in the toughest situations, God is at work, creating new paths and refreshing our dry places with His promise of restoration and hope. When we’re in the midst of life’s struggles, it’s easy to feel lost or abandoned. But this verse assures us that God is not only aware of our situation, but He is also creating new possibilities where we see none. Let’s trust Him with all our hearts, minds, and souls. He’s greater than any challenge we face, and if we stay close to Him, He’ll guide us through the wilderness into our eternal home of peace, love, and joy. So, hold firm to this promise, knowing that God’s transformative power is working even in our darkest moments to bring forth a future filled with His abundant grace and blessings. ■

Living in Unfamiliar Territory

Posted on December 24, 2025 by daaorg1214

Fear and anxiety can be debilitating human experiences, and our Heavenly Father has given us the remedy in Isaiah 41:10 (NLT): “Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.” No matter the challenges we face, the presence of God provides a security and peace that surpass our understanding. However, there are many people going through really tough storms in their lives, and they don’t know that they can lean on God. A new friend, Elaine, was in this place not long ago and shared with me the hurtful situation she was dealing with.

Dreaming of having a family since she was a child, Elaine was ecstatic when she discovered she was pregnant with twins. They were her world, and their needs always came first. If you had asked her husband, he’d argue that he was a very distant fourth or fifth on her priority list. After 13 years of complaining about what he considered a loveless marriage, Elaine came home one day after work and saw a note on the bedroom nightstand. It read, “I’m done. You won’t have me around anymore, and maybe you’ll understand how I’ve felt the last 13 years.” She acknowledged that her husband was a good father and provider but admitted that they had stopped seeing each other as man and wife years ago.

Elaine is shocked at how devastating it’s been since he left. It’s rocked her to her core, she said. Her husband took care of everything, and she may have taken this for granted. She acknowledged that she’s never known what it means to totally lean on God as the Source of all blessings. She asked me, “How do I ask God for help?” I suggested she begin by praying openly, and share her fears, confusion, and hopes with Him. I told her that asking for help is about being honest and vulnerable with God. It starts with acknowledging her need for His support and guidance. I reminded her of Philippians 4:6-7 (NLT): “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.”

1 John 4:15 (NLT) tells us, “All who confess that Jesus is the Son of God have God living in them, and they live in God.” Our Heavenly Father is home for us. He’s our Creator, and when we accept the salvation He offers through Jesus Christ, we begin to live in Him. But, when we put children, spouses, family, and friends above God, we lose sight of the One who gave us these blessings. This is the equivalent of living in unfamiliar territory, one that’s outside the realm of God’s Will. Life can quickly become overwhelming when our priorities are out of order in this way.

Jesus tells us in Matthew 6:33 (NLT), “Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.” This means making God our top priority and trusting Him to take care of everything else. This focus on God helps us keep our lives in balance and ensures that we remain within His guiding presence and purpose.

Understanding that God is all-powerful, all-knowing, and sovereign helps us see that He is unlike anyone or anything else; He’s in a class all by Himself and no one compares. Psalm 115:3 (NLT) says, “Our God is in the heavens, and he does as he wishes.” Acknowledging the truth of His overwhelming brilliance, holiness, and perfection is the starting point for a deep relationship with Him. By keeping Him first in our lives, we align our hearts and minds with His plan, and everything else will fall into its rightful place.

Romans 8:28 (NLT) tells us: “And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.” This is God’s promise to us, but it hinges on our faith in Him and our trust in His Word. Elaine experienced firsthand how quickly life can change when our priorities and focus drift from God’s Will. Her situation shows how extremely important prayer and faith are, and how crucial it is to keep God at the head of our lives. When we fully get on board with His purpose, even when the storms are raging and we’re dealing with the most challenging thing we’ve ever encountered, we can find peace in God. We can rest in Him, trusting that He is working everything together for our good, because this is what He promises to do.■

Let God Handle It

Posted on November 19, 2025 by daaorg1214

Proverbs 20:22 (NLT) says, “Don’t say, ‘I will get even for this wrong.’ Wait for the Lord to handle the matter.” This verse offers profound guidance for us as believers, calling us to a higher standard of patience and trust. Sometimes, living out this principle can be incredibly challenging, especially when we are deeply hurt by the actions of others.

As believers that are following the example of Jesus Christ, we can face life’s ups and downs from a place of unwavering faith in God’s love and grace. Galatians 5:25(NLT) tells us, “Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit’s leading in every part of our lives.” The Holy Spirit guides us into all truth, and we apply our faith as we yield to him and trust his guidance. This faith we have in the Spirit is not just a shield against hardship but a source of strength to face it. He empowers us beyond what we can imagine.

The mindset of walking by faith and following the Spirit’s guidance is beautifully illustrated by the story of a dear sister-friend of mine, who found herself grappling with a significant personal trial. She had been in a relationship where promises of change were made, especially on a hopeful occasion like Mother’s Day weekend. Her boyfriend vowed to stop drinking and seek help for his anger issues, but instead of improvement, his behavior worsened. This culminated in a frightening and aggressive outburst where he physically pinned her against the wall. Her initial reaction was one of pain and a strong desire for retribution.

A strong desire for revenge is not uncommon to most of us. We see it everywhere—when people are hurt or wronged, their first impulse often is to seek revenge or justice on their own terms. The natural human response is to want to “get even,” to balance the scales of justice according to our own understanding. Yet, the wisdom of Proverbs 20:22 calls us to a different path.

My friend defended herself, but also remained calm so that the situation didn’t escalate any further. However, her anger after this incident was almost uncontrollable. “No man has ever put their hands on me like that, and I’m going to make him pay!” she said. In moments of hurt and betrayal, the temptation to retaliate is strong. We might feel justified in our anger and think that we can manage the situation better than God could. But Proverbs 20:22 reminds us that seeking revenge not only fails to bring us true healing, but it also endangers us further. When we act out of hurt, we often make things worse rather than better, compounding our pain and possibly leading to more significant consequences.

Rather than taking matters into our own hands, we need to allow the Holy Spirit to take the lead. His power has no equal, and when we place our trust in him, he will guide us to God’s Will. John 16:13(NLT) tells us, “When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own but will tell you what he has heard. He will tell you about the future.” The Holy Spirit tells us what he has heard from our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and Jesus is the answer to all life’s questions. Rather than acting out of revenge, the Lord commands us to shift our gears to faith in him, so he can bring resolution, restoration, and healing.

My sister-friend ultimately gave up her plans for revenge. She learned the hard way that God’s way is always best. We must draw near to Him and be patient as He guides us. Lamentations 3:25(NKJV) says, “The Lord is good to those who wait for Him, To the soul who seeks Him.” The call to “wait for the Lord” is not a passive or inactive stance. It’s an active trust in God’s justice, mercy, and timing. Waiting for the Lord means surrendering our need for immediate resolution and trusting that God sees the full picture, that He is righteous in His judgments, and that His plans for us are good. ■

He Hears Our Cries & Rescues Us

Posted on October 15, 2025 by daaorg1214

Psalm 145:18-19 (NLT) states: “The Lord is close to all who call on him, yes, to all who call on him in truth. He grants the desires of those who fear him; he hears their cries for help and rescues them.” This incredibly wonderful scripture assures us that when we sincerely call upon the Lord, He draws near to us and responds to our cries for help. This truth is like a comforting melody to me, reminding me that Jesus Christ is constantly by my side, regardless of the challenges I face. It’s a reminder that our true home lies beyond this world, and our purpose here is to serve God’s Kingdom and nurture a close bond with Him through our Savior. Jesus Christ, our closest companion, understands every form of suffering imaginable, having endured it all on the cross for our sake. Whenever we find ourselves in need, Psalm 145:18-19 encourages us to call upon the Lord genuinely, knowing that He is always there to answer our prayers and provide comfort and rescue.

Our Master Jesus said in John 8:32 (NLT): “And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” You and I can’t be free by believing a lie. We must know, believe, and trust God’s truth, because it frees us from oppression and darkness. Jesus reminds us that liberation comes from aligning ourselves with his reality, not with falsehood. There’s liberty and justice in truth and that’s exactly who Jesus Christ is for the Christian believer. He affirms this in John 14:6 (NLT) when he declares: “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.” Our Lord and Savior paved the way to victory for us, and as we follow him in our lives, the path of God’s blessings opens us for us.

Feeling intense sadness and isolation during challenging times is a heavy burden to bear. In those moments, it’s common to feel utterly alone, as if no one understands or supports you. This sense of despair can make it incredibly difficult to believe that help is within reach, that assistance is just a prayer away. The weight of our struggles can cloud our minds and hearts, making it hard to connect with the faith that God is our Source of comfort and guidance.

However, despite the overwhelming darkness, the truth remains: help is indeed only a prayer away. Even when it feels like no one else is on our side, we can find comfort and strength in turning to our Heavenly Father. He has all power, and He delights in helping us. He tells us in Matthew 6:33 that we should seek Him and His Kingdom first, and when we do this, He promises to take care of all our needs.

Although it can be tough to summon the faith to trust in the power of prayer during times of intense struggle, it’s vital to recall that we’re never truly alone; prayer is our acknowledgement of this. It’s our invitation to the One who has all power to intervene and introduce His love and power into our situations. We can be confident that God is ever ready to listen, console, and lead us through our darkest moments. Clinging to this truth brings hope in a very meaningful way.

The timeless wisdom of Proverbs 3:5 tells us not to lean on our own understanding, but to trust in the Lord with all our hearts. Our own understanding is limited, and leaning on it can lead to mistakes, confusion, and unnecessary worry. However, entrusting our hearts fully to the Lord allows us to surrender control and seek His divine guidance in every aspect of our lives. The bottom line is that we must have humility and faith, acknowledging that we don’t have all the answers and that God’s ways are higher than our own. True wisdom begins with acknowledging our dependence on our Heavenly Father. He hears our cries, and when our faith is in Him alone, He’ll rescue us as His guidance lights our way to peace, comfort, and greater faith in Him. ■

Coping with Painful Circumstances

Posted on October 1, 2025 by daaorg1214

Proverbs 16:24 (NLT)
“Kind words are like honey – sweet to the soul and healthy for the body.”

Recently, I spoke with a woman who has been grappling with feelings of betrayal for nearly two years now. You’d think with time, healing would start to take hold, but it’s not always that simple – especially when children are involved, and faith hasn’t been a guiding force in the journey to healing. She’s reached out to countless people, hoping for encouragement and comfort for her shattered heart. Some of the advice she’s received has steered her towards anger and resentment. So, instead of finding comfort, she’s found bitterness creeping into her soul. She confided that she fears she’ll never be capable of loving again.

Dealing with tough times is something we all face but coping with the pain of a partner’s infidelity can be especially tough. It’s like a heavy weight you carry around, making even the simplest tasks feel impossible. I’ve seen it firsthand, women reeling from the shock of betrayal, desperately trying to lessen the pain any way they can. It’s a natural instinct, isn’t it? When you’re hurt, you want to shield yourself from more pain, just like you’d protect a physical wound.

Turning to those who do not know the Lord and haven’t given their lives to Him can sometimes worsen rather than alleviate pain. That’s why passages like Proverbs 16:24 resonate so deeply, highlighting the restorative effect of kind words on the soul and body. Our Master Jesus said in John 14:27(NLT): “I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid.” The Words of Christ bring us a peace that passes all understanding. They instruct, edify, and heal us.

It’s our outlook and approach to challenges that truly shape our experiences as believers. We desperately need to hear the truth, especially when we’ve been attacked by the enemy, who tries to weaponize our relationships against us. Ephesians 6:12 (NLT) is a powerful reminder of the spiritual warfare that believers face: “For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.” This is a reality check for us, reminding us that life isn’t all about what our physical eyes see. There’s a spiritual battle going on behind the scenes, and it’s no joke!

Ephesians 6:13,18(NLT) states: “13 Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. 18 Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.” Rather than succumbing to despair or resentment, this passage prompts us to equip ourselves with God’s spiritual armor of prayer, faith, and the truth of His Word to combat the schemes of the enemy. We can rely on the strength and protection that comes from our faith and stand strong continually.

Realizing that our battles extend beyond human conflicts, but are against spiritual powers, enables us to face difficulties with wisdom and discernment. God doesn’t want us to shut down emotionally due to hurt or betrayal. Instead of harboring bitterness and anger towards people, we’re encouraged to employ fail-proof weapons like prayer, faith, and truth. Whether it’s betrayal in marriage or any other relationship, relying on these tools helps us navigate with the authority and power of Christ, avoiding emotional paralysis and fostering forgiveness and growth.

Trust in God is pivotal to overcoming brokenness. Psalm 51:10 (NLT) beautifully invites God’s restorative work within us: “Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.” Our loving Heavenly Father desires the best for us, far beyond our own comprehension. So, stay steadfast in faith, facing challenges with courage, because nothing can hinder the reality that your inner strength of faith will always manifest the victory of Christ. Despite pain or adversity caused by others, God’s presence and power surpass all, guiding us to overcome with a renewed spirit. Take heart and trust in His unwavering strength. knowing that victory is within reach. ■

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Category Archives: Spiritual Encouragement