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. ■

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 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.■

I Won’t Stop Trusting God

Posted on December 17, 2025 by daaorg1214

Life certainly presents its share of challenges, something I fully realized one evening when I had a painful argument with my now ex-husband. As usual, he was settled into his lounge chair when I came home from work, ready to pick a fight. Silence and avoidance might not seem like abuse, but when you’re married and living together with children, it can be one of the most hurtful forms.

In times like these, I cling to the promise of Christ in John 16:33 (NLT): “I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.” This journey through life is often marked by trials and sorrows, especially in our most significant relationships. The hateful behaviors, passive aggression, and spitefulness can cut like a knife. Despite the trials, we can trust that God’s peace and strength will guide us through these storms, and He never fails.

As a communicator, I find it incredibly difficult to remain silent for long periods, so enduring my husband’s intentional silence was absolute torture. His refusal to speak was his way of punishing me for something he didn’t like. While I didn’t think much of it during our dating years, his behavior ultimately over-burdened our marriage. My opinions, our differences, and even the air I breathed seemed to annoy him at times. Rather than talking about it, he stopped speaking to me for months on end. Those were some of the loneliest times of my life. I wanted desperately to engage with my partner, but he seemed to value punishing me more than loving me. It ended up being a very dark place, and this is not want God wants for anyone.

James 1:2-3 (NLT)is a verse that really hits home: “Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow.” True growth begins during challenging times. It’s through these trials that we learn to trust God. When in your heart you desire nothing more than to love and be loved by your spouse, being mistreated by them a spouse is shockingly hurtful. You ask the Lord, “How much more must I endure?” But it is precisely during these moments of testing that our faith is strengthened, and our relationship with God deepens.

In these moments of struggle, it can be helpful to remember that every trial is an opportunity for transformation. As we navigate the difficulties in our relationships and personal lives, we are invited to lean into God’s grace and find strength in His promises. Each challenge can become a steppingstone towards greater endurance and understanding. Philippians 4:13 (NLT) reveals, “For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength,” By relying on God’s strength, we can face problems, disappointments, and stressful situations with greater resilience. He will light the path to greater blessings and hope if we resolve in our minds and hearts, “I won’t stop trusting God!” Through our faith in Him, we’ll discover that even in the midst of pain, God is with us, fueling our hope and renewal.

As we push through these tough times, remember that every struggle is a chance for growth and a step closer to something better. Each challenge helps us lean into God’s strength and rediscover the extent to which He’s empowered us through the Holy Spirit to overcome every obstacle. Keep pushing forward with faith, knowing that every trial is shaping you for greater things. Trust that God’s got your back, lighting the way even when the path seems unclear. These moments are building something amazing in you. In the end, you’ll come out stronger, clinging more tightly to God, and ready for the blessings that lie ahead. ■

God’s Love is Your Refuge

Posted on December 10, 2025 by daaorg1214

When the person you love inflicts pain—whether physical or emotional—where do you turn for solace? In those moments of hurt and confusion, find refuge in God. Trust that His unwavering love will not falter. It is His love, grace, and mercy that will carry you through the darkest times. The psalmist encourages us in Psalms 34:8 (NLT) “Taste and see that the Lord is good. Oh, the joys of those who take refuge in him!” This verse invites us to personally experience the goodness of God and assures us that those who seek shelter in Him will find joy. While others may offer advice on how to trust God, the experience of faith is deeply personal and unique. It’s something you must witness and taste for yourself to truly understand.

Even the most seasoned Christians face challenges, but through steadfast trust in God, we find the strength to triumph over seemingly insurmountable obstacles. As Romans 8:37 (NLT) declares, “No, despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours through Christ, who loved us.” The trials we endure are not without purpose; they often lead us to a deeper understanding of His love.

Many people, including myself, face struggles that can feel overwhelming. Yet, there is a more effective way to navigate these challenges without separating ourselves from faith in God’s love and His power to help us. No problem is too big for Him to solve, but our faith must be firmly anchored in Him. I’ve learned that clinging too tightly to fears or past hurts can stifle our spiritual and personal growth. We can become so engulfed in our disappointment that we lose sight of the path to redemption and renewal. By trusting in God’s ability to guide us, we allow His grace to clear the way, helping us to overcome obstacles and find a path toward healing and transformation.

Faith in God opens our eyes to the light of Jesus Christ. Consider the promise of 1 Peter 5:7 (NLT), which says, “Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.” By letting go and placing your trust in God, you open yourself up to His transformative power. When you surrender your fears and hurts to Him, you allow His love to guide you toward a better tomorrow, one where His peace and grace can illuminate your path forward.

Often, what we’re missing is this very trust. The darkness of our situations can overwhelm our senses, leaving us feeling stuck and consumed by emotions and thoughts that cloud our clarity. We may feel disconnected, struggling with confusion and frustration. Yet, by turning our concerns over to God, we invite His light into our lives, clearing the way for healing and renewal.

It doesn’t happen overnight. Transformation and the strengthening of our relationship with God is a journey, and it takes time to see the fruits of our trust in Him. But He never leaves or forsakes us, and with each step forward, you are moving closer to the peace and clarity He promises. Remember, His love is your refuge, providing guidance and support even when the path seems unclear. Trust in His timing and allow His love to lead you. He will turn your disappointment into the breakthrough that you so deeply desire for your life. ■

A Collapsed House

Posted on December 3, 2025 by daaorg1214

In Job 1:18-19 (NLT), there’s this shocking moment where a messenger comes to Job with some heart-wrenching news: “Your sons and daughters were feasting in their oldest brother’s home. Suddenly, a powerful wind swept in from the wilderness and hit the house on all sides. The house collapsed, and all your children are dead. I am the only one who escaped to tell you.” Imagine the horror: a home reduced to rubble; children lost in an instant. It’s a nightmare that strikes right at the core of our sense of safety and stability.

When a home falls apart, it’s not just a physical collapse but an emotional one that shakes the foundation of our being. It also means a big hit to our sense of safety and stability. For many of us, this kind of disaster isn’t just a distant worry—it’s something we worry about all the time. Maybe your husband has threatened to leave, and you lie awake each night dreading the moment you come home to find their stuff gone. Or you might be juggling everything on your own, trying to take care of your family while feeling completely worn out. Bills keep piling up, and it feels like one more setback could be the tipping point that makes everything crumble. In these moments, you might feel like the “house” of your life is on the verge of collapse, much like Job’s home.

Whether it’s the fear of losing a loved one, the strain of being the sole provider, or the relentless pressure of mounting bills, these scenarios bring up the same deep-seated anxiety. Dealing with these challenges, we’re constantly trying to keep our lives from falling apart, feeling like we’re right on the edge of our own breakdown. But Proverbs 18:10 (NLT) reminds us, “The name of the Lord is a strong fortress; the godly run to him and are safe.” In these moments of overwhelming stress, we can find comfort and refuge in God. He’s our safe place, a stronghold that can help us weather any storm.

Admittedly, it can be challenging to believe this when you’ve been shouldering everything for those you love for so long. It’s easy to feel worn out and discouraged, especially when you’ve carried the weight of responsibilities, sacrifices, and fears on your own. At times, it may seem like there’s no end in sight, and the idea of finding refuge and strength can feel distant and unreal. Yet, even in the midst of exhaustion and frustration, God’s promises hold true.

When you’re overwhelmed and feel like you’ve reached your limit, remember that you’re not alone in this. Matthew 11:28 (NLT) offers a comforting invitation: “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.” Turning to God in these moments of struggle can bring renewed hope and strength, reminding us that there is a powerful source of support and comfort available, even when everything seems like it’s on the verge of collapse.

Our Heavenly Father doesn’t cause the painful situations in our lives, but He knows we will face them. 2 Peter 2:9 (NLT) tells us, “So you see, the Lord knows how to rescue godly people from their trials, even while keeping the wicked under punishment until the day of final judgment.” This means that, even in our most challenging moments, God is fully aware of our struggles. He has the power to transform our difficulties into opportunities for growth and beauty. All power is in His hands, and He is both willing and able to guide us through our trials, turning what seems like rubble into something stronger and more magnificent.■

Shift from Reaction to Response

Posted on November 26, 2025 by daaorg1214

In 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 (NLT), our Heavenly Father gave the Apostle Paul a powerful truth: “9 Each time he said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me. 10 That’s why I take pleasure in my weaknesses, and in the insults, hardships, persecutions, and troubles that I suffer for Christ. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” This passage reassures us that even in our darkest moments—whether we face physical, mental, emotional, or spiritual struggles—these are opportunities for God’s strength to shine through. Our vulnerabilities are not just burdens but opportunities for God’s power to manifest in our lives.

Life’s unpredictability can bring us to our knees, but as God’s children, He has equipped us with the authority of Jesus Christ to overcome any challenge victoriously. By staying rooted in God’s Word, we can navigate life’s storms with confidence and resilience, turning potential setbacks into opportunities for spiritual growth. To make this happen, we must have faith in God. We shouldn’t give in to doubt when things get tough because God has promised to help us. No matter the severity of the difficulty, everything will be resolved when we remain committed to having faith in our Heavenly Father.

When we’re going through it and we feel like our backs are against the wall, we might think that our Heavenly Father has forsaken us. Some people who haven’t learned more about Him through His Word might even blame God for their misery, believing He is punishing them. But this is not true. God does not cause bad things to happen to us. He is a God of peace and has given us the Holy Spirit through Jesus Christ so that His peace can continually dwell in our hearts.

Rather than focusing only on the problem, Isaiah 26:3 (NLT) encourages us to shift our thoughts to God: “You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you!” We need to focus our minds on God’s goodness, mercy, and grace. Instead of letting darkness lead us into regression, we should recognize that we can rise higher in Christ. By growing in faith and spiritual maturity, we gain a new perspective—one that transforms worry into joy in the Lord.

Hebrews 11:6 (NLT) encourages us to cultivate thoughts and emotions that help us please our Heavenly Father. The verse states, “And it is impossible to please God without faith. Anyone who wants to come to him must believe that God exists and that he rewards those who sincerely seek him.” In times of adversity, our natural tendency is to react impulsively, often driven by fear, frustration, and anxiety But instead of letting those negative emotions take over, this verse challenges us to respond with faith. Rather than letting fear control our actions, we’re called to trust in God and believe that He’s got our back. By choosing faith over fear, we stay aligned with God’s plan and open ourselves up to His guidance and blessings.

In practical terms, this means actively shifting our focus from problems to God’s promises. Instead of dwelling on what might go wrong, we can remind ourselves of God’s past faithfulness and His assurances for the future. This shift in perspective not only helps us manage stress and anxiety but also strengthens our relationship with God. When we make a habit of responding with faith, we’re not just coping with challenges; we’re growing spiritually and building resilience. Our faith becomes a powerful tool for navigating life’s ups and downs, transforming obstacles into opportunities for deeper connection with God and His purpose for us.

In real terms, this means shifting our focus from what’s going wrong to what God has promised. Rather than stressing about potential problems, we should remind ourselves of God’s past help and His promises for the future. This change in perspective not only helps us deal with stress but also strengthens our communion with God. When we make faith our first response, we’re not just handling tough times better—we’re also growing spiritually and becoming stronger. Our faith becomes a game-changer for navigating life’s challenges, turning obstacles into chances for deeper spiritual growth and, most importantly, forging a stronger relationship with God.■

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. ■

Waiting for God’s Help

Posted on November 12, 2025 by daaorg1214

When things go wrong, our first instinct is often to fix them ourselves. But what happens when we can’t? Who do we turn to? As believers, we should always turn to God, yet sometimes we find ourselves questioning His plan or our own faith. Life can be tough; it can wear us down and cause us to wonder if we’ll find true answers and lasting peace. Many of us can relate to the sentiments in Psalm 69:3 (NLT): “I am exhausted from crying for help; my throat is parched. My eyes are swollen with weeping, waiting for my God to help me.” This verse captures the raw emotion and desperate need for God’s intervention that many of us experience during times of hardship and uncertainty. It reminds us to lean on God completely, trusting that He hears our cries and will provide comfort, guidance, and help in His perfect timing.

I recall a time in my life when I had to wait for God’s help. Early in my marriage, my husband became physically abusive. The signs were there even before we married, but I ignored them. Many nights, I cried myself to sleep, feeling trapped and without a way out. It was during those darkest moments that I turned to prayer, seeking God’s guidance and strength. I questioned why this was happening and struggled to find the courage to change my situation.

Psalm 46:1-2 (NLT) reassures us, “God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. So we will not fear when earthquakes come and the mountains crumble into the sea.” These verses are more than encouragement; they stand as a powerful testament to the enduring goodness of God and His unwavering love for us. Our faith in God provides a refuge and a source of strength that sustains us through the most challenging times. It reminds us that even in the face of overwhelming circumstances—like earthquakes and mountains crumbling—God remains steadfast and ready to intervene on our behalf.

This truth should inspire and secure our overwhelming confidence in Him. When we love and honor God, we find that He never disappoints. His promises hold true, and His presence brings peace amidst turmoil. This assurance allows us to face difficulties with courage, knowing that God is with us and will guide us through every storm.

In John 16:33 (NLT), Jesus Christ reminds us, “I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.” The challenges of life can weigh heavy on us, especially the emotional, mental, and physical toll of domestic violence and abuse. It may seem that there’s no way out, but Jesus reminds us to focus on the victory he won for us on the cross when he gave his life as a sacrifice for our sins. He invites us to lay our burdens down and trust him with them.

It took time for me to grow in faith and courage, and to open my eyes to all the ways God was helping me. He had been extending His hand all along, and when the veil of doubt was removed, I could see His hand of mercy guiding me through the darkness. Through His grace and by following His guidance, He transformed my life in ways I never imagined possible, and He wants to do this for everyone that comes to Him.

Jesus plainly tells us that life won’t be easy. We will face trials and sorrows, but we can take heart because He has overcome them all. In every circumstance, we find resilience knowing that God’s strength sustains us. We won’t break or crumble because His promises are steadfast, and His love is unending. God can handle whatever burdens we cast upon Him; we just need to trust that He is faithful to His Word. ■

Don’t Make Fear Comfortable

Posted on November 5, 2025 by daaorg1214

In 1 John 4:18 (NLT), our Heavenly Father teaches us that by embracing His love, believers are freed from fear. This verse states: “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.” As we continue to grow in our relationship with God and in our understanding of His love, we are transformed by it. Our perspectives shift from fear to trust and confidence in Him. This is what allows us to truly live in freedom, knowing that God’s perfect love casts out fear and brings about transformation in our lives.

When we talk about how God’s love changes us, it’s not just some abstract idea. It really affects us—how we think about ourselves, how we treat others, and how we face tough times. God’s love is a light in the darkness. As we keep walking with Him—reading His Word to understand His heart, praying to grow closer to Him, and just spending time with Him—we’ll find that these aren’t just routines. They’re moments where we encounter our Heavenly Father who loves us deeply. And through these experiences, we learn that God doesn’t just want us to get by; He wants us to thrive. The wonderful thing about this is that as we thrive in His love, our lives start reflecting that love in amazing ways.

Fear is a powerful emotion that can significantly impact our lives and hinder us from fully embracing the wonderful plan God has for us. When we allow fear to dominate our thoughts and decisions, it creates barriers that prevent us from stepping into the fullness of God’s purpose and blessings. It limits our faith and therefore, overcoming fear should be a priority in our lives.

In Psalm 27:1 (NLT), the psalmist declared: “The LORD is my light and my salvation—so why should I be afraid? The LORD is my fortress, protecting me from danger, so why should I tremble?” This verse conveys extraordinary assurance in God’s sovereignty and omnipotence. The psalmist’s unwavering faith shines through, affirming his full confidence in our Heavenly Father. This confidence and faith are essential for us too, trusting that if God is for us, as Romans 8:31 declares, nothing and no one can be against us.

Jesus Christ explains why he came to the earth in John 10:10 (NKJV): “The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” Here, Jesus contrasts himself with the thief, the devil, who only brings harm and destruction. Jesus, on the other hand, reveals his mission to offer us a life that’s not just getting by, but thriving—full of his joy, peace, and meaning. His mission is all about giving us hope, rescuing us from darkness, and showing us how to live abundantly in his love and grace.

There can be no doubt that the devil’s mission is to keep us ensnared through fear so that we will not live the powerful life God intends for us all. Our faith in God disrupts the enemy’s plan to steal the power and abundance God has so generously provided to all who love and honor Him. By whispering doubts in our ears, the devil aims to make us to hesitate and withdraw from who God has called us to be and what He has called us to do. Instead of trusting in God’s provision and promises, we might focus on all the ways things could go wrong, and this stalls our spiritual progress and growth.

Fear can really hold us back emotionally and spiritually. It makes us feel unsure about ourselves and our abilities, questioning whether we’re good enough. This can stop us from fully embracing who we are in Christ and from confidently using the unique gifts and talents God has given us. Instead of living boldly and with purpose, we might play it safe and stick to what’s comfortable, missing out on the full, abundant life that Jesus promises to those who follow Him wholeheartedly.

Fear not only undermines our relationships but also leads us to seek comfort in relationships that perpetuate our fears. God didn’t create us to be victims or to live in fear. Genesis 1:26 tells us that He made us in His very own image. 1 John 4:16 (NLT) further affirms: “We know how much God loves us, and we have put our trust in his love. God is love, and all who live in love live in God, and God lives in them.” Therefore, we were created out of God’s love to both share and receive love in the healthiest and most genuine ways possible.

God desires us to love others through His grace and peace so that we can build strong bonds that nurture us continually. As we open our hearts to Him and learn more about His love through His Word, it empowers us. Embracing our identity in Christ, we begin to confidently walk in the unique gifts and talents that God has bestowed upon each of us. This is His Will. When we place our faith in Him, and commit to live through Christ, fear is no longer made comfortable. Instead, our lives become a testament to God’s transformative power, and we find courage and strength to face each day with hope, purpose, and increasing faith. ■

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Breaking the chains of domestic abuse through the power of Jesus Christ.

Tag Archives: Self-love