Spiritual Journals—A 4-Step Formula to Begin

Jan 25, 2021 | Receive God's Love

A 4-Part Formula to Start Spiritual Journals

I’ve often tried to adopt the daily practice. But with spiritual journals, I find I use them more frequently when I’m trying to sort out decisions or seek Biblical direction. I journal in a variety of ways when I feel the Holy Spirit prompt, “Don’t miss this,” or when I’m trying to untangle my thoughts. 

Recently, though, I’ve discovered a lot of peace when journaling my spiritual journey on a day-to-day basis. The daily practice reminds me to focus on our Savior and seek His ways as I navigate life. 

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What are Spiritual Journals or Spiritual Notebooks?

A spiritual journal is simply a notebook or a document on your device reserved for writing thoughts. More than just recording events of your day, spiritual journals will record how we see the Lord’s involvement in our daily lives.  

Types of Journals for Your Spiritual Walk

The types are as endless as your own imagination, but a few of the most commonly used spiritual journal ideas include:

• Prayer journals (listing out your prayers so you can watch for and record answers)
• Journals that pair with Bible studies (helping you internalize and apply what you learn)
• Sermon journals (writing down the inspiration that comes from spiritual leaders)
• Spiritual growth journals (detailing your intentional activities to draw near to God)
• “God” sighting journals (recording where you see the Lord moving in your life, answering prayer, providing for needs, directing your path, etc.)
• A Gratitude Journal (naturally, to record your thanks)
• Spiritual Gift Journal (to convey how you use or develop your spiritual gifts)
• And many more

What Is the Best Journal?

There are a plethora of options, but the best journals are the ones that you will actually use. I find it beneficial to shop around and pay a little bit more for a journal I enjoy opening and using each day. My spiritual walk is a gift that I want to document appropriately. If funds are tight, you can always add your favorites to your wishlist or ask for them as a gift. 

For writing about spiritual matters, I’ve experimented with a 3-ring notebook (smaller versions work well for me), composition notebooks (especially if they’re cute), spiral notebook (these are super fun when they can be personalized), 3×5 notecards, even sticky notes. Sometimes I will record my thoughts in a typed document, but normally I like to write with a pen in hand. There’s something about slowing down and considering the words that help me focus my spiritual thoughts. Using a keyboard doesn’t always bring the same degree of introspection. 

Research shows that writing with pen and paper promotes high-quality learning and offers a good strategy to store and internalize ideas for the long-term. The act of putting pen to paper to record what we have experienced in our walk with Christ strengthens both our recollection and our resolve to walk in obedience to His ways. That’s why it’s important to shop for something you’ll enjoy. 

Why Keep a Journal for Spiritual Matters?

The instruction from Deuteronomy 4:9 (HCSB), encourages us to remember spiritual teaching and pass it on to our children. It says, “be on guard and diligently watch yourselves so that you don’t forget the things your eyes have seen and so that they don’t slip from your mind as long as you live. Teach them to your children and your grandchildren.”

The practice of journaling prompts us to take this Biblical encouragement and puts it into practice. Writing down the ways we see the Lord moving in our spiritual lives helps us keep them at the front of our minds so we can share them with others.

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A Journal Helps Us Self Examine

Through journaling, we can evaluate our thoughts, reactions, spiritual growth, and the way we apply Biblical truth to our lives. 

Author Michael Hyatt says in his article about a daily journal, “What happens to us is not as important as the meaning we assign to it. Journaling helps sort this out.”

I completely agree. Writing in a spiritual journal prompts me to process my thoughts and determine the most God-honoring response to the situations I encounter. I can then proceed with purpose and intention—steady my spiritual walk, so to speak—and pursue obedience to Jesus. I find it’s well worth the time investment and is one of my favorite practices to help quiet surging emotions to focus on the Lord. 

Writing in a spiritual journal is a helpful tool to diligently watch ourselves.

A Journal is a Great Tool for Meditation

When we’re quiet before Jesus, He often reveals meaningful insights through His Word and by the power of the Holy Spirit. We often have to sort through the revelations one bite at a time. Recording our thoughts brings what may seem like a blurry landscape into better focus. The more we contemplate Biblical truth by writing in a journal, the more we can process, remember, and apply the spiritual aspects that we learn. 

Journaling is helpful to remember what we’ve seen. 

A Journal Records our Journey of Faith

A journal serves as a type of memorial stone so that our stories don’t get lost in the busyness of our schedules.  The Lord told Joshua to establish markers that would always serve as a memorial for His people and a sign among them. Looking back on our own stories helps us recall the steadfast nature of the Almighty and builds our faith for the road ahead. 

Journaling is helpful to keep our stories from slipping our minds.

A Journal Can Witness to Future Generations

Most often when we write in a journal, we’re writing for our own benefit and not for an audience. Keep in mind, however, that when we pass from this life, our journals may be collected and read by our loved ones.  They will read our stories of powerful spiritual testimony and spiritual growth through our own words. Only the Lord knows how He may use our journals to encourage others and perhaps draw them into a saving relationship with Jesus Christ. 

Journaling helps teach our children and grandchildren.

A 4-Part Formula To Start Spiritual Journal

Facing a blank page can feel daunting. When creating a spiritual journal, writing to—or about—the Lord can feel intimidating, although He encourages us to speak to Him as a friend. The biggest key to becoming comfortable with the practice of writing in a journal is to begin doing it. There are 4 steps that will help any beginner adopt the practice as a daily routine.

1. Decide When And Where You’ll Journal.  Many people enjoy setting aside a specific time and place to record their thoughts each day. Others write when inspiration strikes and always have pen and paper within reach. Finding a quiet place is important so you can reflect and contemplate. Establishing a prayer closet or prayer nook is a good practice. You may need to experiment and find a favorite routine that works best for your personality and schedule. 
2. Start Small. If you’re just beginning, remember to start small. Your goal isn’t to write your entire life story but to begin where you are. Start by recording your thoughts today and work to develop a consistent habit over the next few weeks. As with any spiritual discipline, journaling takes practice before it starts to feel comfortable and routine. 
3. Ask Yourself a Few Questions. Especially in the beginning stages, you might like to ask yourself a few questions then record your answers in your journal. Here are a few places to start: 
   • What did I read in the Bible today that encouraged me?
   • How will it help me in the challenges I face today?
   • Where did I see Jesus’ activity in my life today (in the way He provided, directed, or helped)?
   • For what things am I thankful?
4. Review What You Write. Looking back on your thoughts of your past helps keep your mind focused on Jesus in the present and future. It also reminds you that Jesus is near, that He has helped you before, and is sure to help you again.  Anne Frank once said, “I can shake off everything as I write; my sorrows disappear, my courage is reborn.” What a delightful reason to write and review a spiritual journal. 

Journal Templates With Writing Prompts

Some journals are available with pre-printed templates. These are among my favorite tools and help relieve a lot of pressure that comes when wondering what to write or how to begin. They are encouraging tools. I invite you to visit my shop for a dynamic prayer journal or Bible study companion journal. 

Comparing a Prayer Journal vs Notebook

A prayer journal is among the most unique types of journal. It is most beneficial when you have room for several aspects of prayer. My Prayer Journal is a reader favorite and is available in my shop. It uses the beautifully illustrated acronym P.O.W.E.R., with room to record your Praise, Offer of Thanks, Warfare (with room to write prayer requests and answers to prayer), ways that you Embrace His Instruction, and Repent of any sin in your life. (By the way, this makes a wonderful gift for anyone who enjoys prayer.)  When you’re trying to add a new spiritual practice into a tiny nook of time, having pre-printed prompts is a game changer!

If you’d like to read another article about prayer, I recommend this one on how to pray daily. 

The Gift of Keeping a Journal 

For centuries, countless followers of Jesus have kept a journal to document their spiritual journey and add to their abiding connection with Christ. It’s a favorite among ways that we can release our creative nature and express our hearts. When we journal, we clear our minds of troubling thoughts and lay them at the feet of Jesus. We release the burdens of our hearts so that we can walk in freedom and joy. By writing in a journal, we can pass on a legacy of the Lord’s loving truth to the generations that follow. 

If you haven’t yet started the practice of journaling about your spiritual walk with Jesus, I encourage you to begin as soon as possible and reap the blessings that follow.

A 15-Minute Spiritual Growth Challenge

Jan 11, 2021 | Receive God's Love

I love the changes of seasons in Colorado, and I adore spring. The world is alive with the hope of new beginnings and fresh starts. After long winter months, I look forward to the newness of spring and its reminder of the redeeming work of Christ.  No matter how cold and bleary our past, He makes a way for renewal and hope. Jesus reminds us, regardless of how far we feel we’ve drifted from an abiding connection to Him, that He is steadfast and longs to draw us toward spiritual growth once again. I love that.

 

I recall coming out of one of those hazy, blustery seasons of life, yearning for a fresh start. My connection with God seemed to hang on by a thread and I struggled to feel His nearness or discern His promptings. I was in a season of spiritual winter, to be sure.

The renewal of spring inspires me greatly. Suddenly, I feel alive and rejuvenated, ready to take on the world. More importantly, I’m ready to reprioritize my walk with Jesus—intentionally—by focusing on keys to spiritual growth. Care to join me?

 

Sprouting Spiritual Growth

 

I know what you’re thinking. We’re entering one of the craziest times of year. Is this the best time to make new commitments?

 

Oh, my sister, yes. Yes it is. Our commitment to Christ is the most precious gift in our lives and leaving it untended will cost us dearly.  Without an abiding connection to Jesus, I struggle with feelings of isolation. I’m grumpy and unmotivated and tend to feel that my daily routine is meaningless.

 

But the blessings of abiding are more than we can imagine. I feel a deep sense of meaning and connection and more easily embrace the love that Jesus has for me. That helps me love others better and give more generously of myself.  One of my favorite spiritual growth quotes is by Wayne Dyer who said, “When you are spiritually connected, you are not looking for occasions to be offended, and you are not judging and labeling others. You are in a state of grace in which you know you are connected to God and thus free from the effects of anyone or anything external to yourself.”

That state of grace is certainly a way I want to live, so what do you say? Are you ready to reach out and grab hold of increasing spiritual maturity?  Let’s allow our spiritual growth to sprout again and take root. We don’t have to spend hours a day pulling weeds from our spiritual gardens. Drawing close to God is a little like breathing. It’s something we do all day, every day, alongside every other activity we face.

 

Drawing close to God is a little like breathing. It’s something we do all day, every day, alongside every other activity we face.

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A 15-Minute Spiritual Growth Challenge

 

Someone recently asked what is meant by spiritual growth.  It’s the process of learning more about Jesus and discerning more of His presence in our lives. Spiritual growth and maturity are about developing a friendship with our Savior, learning to lean into His strength for help in every part of our day. It doesn’t have to be hard or complicated. In fact, sometimes the best spiritual growth comes through small, intentional steps. 

 

Could you commit, say, 15 minutes a day to focused, Christ-centered activity? Maybe give up a hand of solitaire on your smartphone or choose a messy bun instead of grabbing the curling iron. I know you can find a quarter of an hour at least 5 or 6 days a week.

 

 

How Do You Achieve Spiritual Growth?

 

Not so long ago, I decided to read 5 Psalms and 1 Proverb each day. It took me less than 15 minutes each day. Most days I picked up my Bible and read before starting my daily to-do’s. Sometimes I read while I rocked my sleeping granddaughter or while my grandson played with his toys next to me. I’ll admit, there were a few days where I didn’t get it done, but most days I did. And you know what? Just that little bit of time in God’s Word stirred my heart and poured hope and truth into my dry, dusty heart. As they say, a little goes a long way and I’m enjoying the process again this month.

 

Will you accept the challenge to read 5 Psalms and 1 Proverb each day for the month of May? Let’s band together and give God’s Word our focus and attention for a few daily minutes.

 

I hope you’ll join me! If you’re up for the challenge will you let me know? Let me know on Facebook or Instagram and I’ll be happy to pray for you during the journey. I know you’ll love it and the joy it brings to your jumbled life.

 

May God’s Word strengthen you today,

 

 

 

 

 

 

Using the Sword of the Spirit

Nov 11, 2020 | Receive God's Love

If you knew of an effective, spiritual weapon that would flawlessly protect you from the schemes of the enemy, would you use it?

Jesus did. He was adept at using the Sword of the Spirit.

 

In the wilderness, He was hungry, hadn’t likely slept well for weeks, and was far from what might have felt comfortable. 40 days of fasting in the wilderness will do that. During this time of weakness, Jesus faced the temptation of Satan (see Luke 4:1-13), fought a spiritual battle with spiritual weapons, and walked away victorious. This provides the ultimate example of using the Sword of the Spirit, which the Bible teaches is the Word of God.

The Temptation of Jesus and What it Teaches About our Enemy

The Lord’s interaction with the enemy exposes the schemes of the evil one. It’s good to know our enemy and through this event, and we learn much about his destructive tactics:

• Satan comes after us in times of weakness. While we hope that he may leave us alone during difficult periods, the opposite is true. He knows the perfect times to move in and attack – and it’s not while we’re strong.
• The enemy knows exactly how to pull each of us off track. He may come after me with lies about my identity in Christ while assaulting you with temptation toward laziness. There’s no question he knows just where and how to strike and he executes with precision.
• The efforts of the enemy are relentless. Satan knows we may withstand one wave of temptation, so he’s prepared to move in with additional assaults if necessary.
• Tactics of the enemy are to accuse, tempt, and deceive. Watch the progression:
  1. Accusation: Luke 4:3 – “If you are the Son of God…” Can’t you just hear that hiss? The whisper to our Savior saying, you’re not really the son of God.
  2. Temptation: Luke 4:6-7 – “I will give you all this domain and its glory… if You worship before me.” He tried to tempt Jesus with kingdoms of this world.
  3. Deception: Luke 4:9-11 – Our enemy knows God’s Word and twists it with the intent to deceive: Just jump, he dared. God will send His angels to protect you.

Jesus battled each tactic with one weapon: the Sword of the Spirit which is the Word of God. Scripture worked against each of the enemy’s schemes. Talk about powerful and effective!

Using the Sword of the Spirit—Praying Scripture

What does it mean to use the Sword of the Spirit? It’s simply praying the Word of God.

Satan tried to control Jesus through temptation, accusation, and deception. Our own vulnerabilities look different, but for each of us, the enemy attempts to open a dangerous pit of control and mastery that we must fight hard to avoid. The Sword is a powerful weapon.

Beth Moore authored a tremendous book titled Praying God’s Word. It seemed as if I highlighted nearly every word I read. In this book, she refers to the practice of praying God’s Word as: “… one of the most effective approaches to the liberated life in Christ that God has ever taught me.”[1] When we use God’s Word relentlessly in prayer it’s part of putting on the full Armor of God. By wielding the Sword of the Spirit:

• We know we are praying His will, and using His perfect words to intercede.
• We’re using the most powerful tool in our arsenal.
• Truth begins to fill our minds so that we can ward off the lies of the enemy.
• Eventually, we’ll learn the verses by heart so that the Holy Spirit can call them to mind when we need them most.

Victory in Jesus

It’s imperative to recognize that you and I have all the same weapons that Jesus had to fight the spiritual battle.

• The Word of God is at our disposal. If we find we’re too busy to read and meditate on the Bible, we forfeit the most potent tool in our toolbox. You’ll notice that Jesus first response was Scripture. He didn’t need to stop and look up a verse – He knew the Word of God.
• Our loving, heavenly Father remains in full authority over Satan. God never tempts us. He does not allow us to undergo temptation without reason – for our strengthening and betterment. “Temptation is Satan’s weapon to defeat us, but it can become God’s tool to build us.”[2]
• We have God-given power and authority over the enemy. Do you find yourself questioning this? Look at these Scriptures and embrace them as God’s truth: Luke 10:19, Colossians 2:10, 1 John 4:4.
• The Holy Spirit intercedes for us. I’ve had moments – and I bet you have too – where I feel I’m walking into a battle without prayer support. Sometimes battles come upon us in a surprising fashion, without time to ask for prayer from our sisters and support teams. But here’s a truth to cling to: “In the same way the Spirit also joins to help in our weakness… the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with unspoken groanings. … He intercedes for the saints according to the will of God. (Romans 8:26-27 HCSB).

 

Temptation is Satan’s weapon to defeat us, but it can become God’s tool to build us. ~ Wiersbe

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It’s time to wield the Sword of the Spirit

It’s time to let the Word of God penetrate our minds, hearts, and spirits so that we can use it as the powerful and effective weapon that it’s intended to be. Here are a few challenges to help us get started:

• Get involved in Bible Study. If you’re new to Bible study, I shared tips for Bible Study beginners in an article you’re sure to find helpful.

• Choose one verse to learn by heart. Read it, write it on an index card, say it, sing it, and by all means, use it to battle our enemy. Pick a verse that specifically speaks to your biggest weakness, your area of vulnerability. (Use openbible.info for help).
• Pray the Scriptures over your family. As you read through daily devotions you’re sure to read Bible verses that make you shout, “I wish my ___ knew that!” Well, pray it for them! Insert their name into it. Ask God to fill them with it. Refer to pages 86-91 of Fervent by Priscilla Shirer for additional help. As you start to pray the Scriptures, pay attention to how God moves. Prepare to be astonished, then be sure to thank the Lord!
• Read a Psalm – just one – each day for an entire week. Read it silently and out loud. Paste it into the notes section of your phone so you can read it at the doctor’s office or in the drive-through. The more you read, the more familiar it becomes and the more it starts to sink into the portion of your brain that memorizes. It becomes like that product jingle that you can’t get out of your head – only you want this one!

With Practice Comes Progression

As with any tool or weapon, wielding the Sword of the Spirit requires practice. We don’t seek perfection, but we are looking to move forward, to equip ourselves for battle, to prepare our hearts and minds to honor God above all else. We have the power – and the authority – to say “No, Satan. Not today. I will not believe your lies because I know the truth and here it is!” And then, we walk away from the battle in freedom and victory. How fun is that? Have a blessed day in the Lord, my friend.

 

   

  [1] Moore, Beth. Praying God’s Word: Breaking Free from Spiritual Strongholds (p. 2). B&H Publishing Group. Kindle Edition. [2] Wiersbe, W. W. (1996). The Bible exposition commentary (Vol. 1, p. 182). Wheaton, IL: Victor Books.

Uplifting Quotes to Overcome Disappointment and Discouragement

Oct 4, 2020 | Receive God's Love

Everyone faces disappointment from time to time. We can feel disappointed about other people, ourselves, circumstances, our work, our families, or the world around us. The trick is to avoid letting that disappointment escalate to discouragement. We might wonder what to say to ourselves to overcome disappointment, or what to say to someone else who is discouraged. This short post offers several uplifting quotes about discouragement to help inspire a positive outlook and focus on God.

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see our disclosure statement.

Quotes About Discouragement and Hope

Oswald Chambers

“If you are going through a time of discouragement, there is a time or great personal growth ahead.”

Thomas Edison

“I am not discouraged, because every wrong attempt discarded is another step forward.”

 Billy Graham 

“I have my moments of deep discouragement. I have to go to God in prayer with tears in my eyes, and say, ‘O God, forgive me,’ or ‘Help me.'”

Beth Moore

“I think that what women need to hear is that there is life after failure.” 

The Printable “Give it to God” Prayer Journal Bundle is Available Now! 

Encouraging Words for the Disappointed

Charles Stanley

“Nobody else can make us discouraged; it is a choice that we alone make when facing disappointments.”     

Warren Wiersbe

“The remedy for discouragement is the Word of God. When you feed your heart and mind with its truth, you regain your perspective and find renewed strength.”    

Dale Carnegie

“Develop success from failures. Discouragement and failure are two of the surest stepping stones to success.”

Disappointment Quotes from the Bible

There is no better hope for discouragement than the Word of God, which can sustain our hearts in every disappointment of life. Some of my favorite Bible Verses that help me through seasons of disappointment:

Proverbs 16:9 (CSB)

In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.

Proverbs 3:5-6 (NASB)

Trust in the Lord with all your heart And do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He will make your paths straight.

Habakkuk 2:2-3 (ESV)

And the Lord answered me: “Write the vision; make it plain on tablets, so he may run who reads it. For still the vision awaits its appointed time; it hastens to the end—it will not lie. If it seems slow, wait for it; it will surely come; it will not delay. (ESV)

Romans 8:28 (NIV)

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines discourage as dishearten; to deprive of courage or confidence; to dissuade from doing something. But Jesus is our Comforter and the lifter of our heads. In Christ we have unimaginable hope, even through difficult situations and circumstances. When we place our focus on Him, we can walk through disappointment with peace and surety. He stands with us no matter what we face. God is for us. He is our ally and no highs or lows or any created thing can separate us from His love (see Romans 8:39). What a tremendous help to overcome discouragement!  

15 Bible Verses to Help Overcome Discouragement

Oct 3, 2020 | Receive God's Love

It’s safe to say we’ve all faced a large measure of discouragement over the past year. The definition of discouragement is a loss of confidence or enthusiasm (New Oxford American Dictionary). Many people have lost confidence in things that once provided security, such as employers, experts, leaders, and the like. As Christians, we’re taught through God’s Word to put our confidence in God alone. Accordingly, there are many Bible verses about discouragement that provide hope, even when life situations become challenging.

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see our disclosure statement. 

What Can Cause Discouragement?

Before we look at the Scriptures, it’s helpful to understand some of what may cause feelings of discouragement. There are several factors involved, some of which are weariness, fear, and setbacks.

Weariness that leads to dismay

Weariness is one of the most prominent causes of discouragement. We can experience weariness physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. In short, when we encounter difficult circumstances it becomes exhausting. We don’t sleep well, so we’re physically tired. We concentrate too hard, weighing multiple options about our situation and become mentally fatigued. Emotions become hard to navigate and the spiritual burden becomes hard to bear. Weariness fuels discouragement and causes us to lose confidence in ourselves, others, and our circumstance.

Fear that steals peace

When facing uncertainty, fear becomes a readily available tool of the enemy. He uses it against us as fiery darts, stealing our peace and causing us to feel disheartened and hopeless. In seasons where we experience fear, it feels so very hard to raise our shield of faith and combat it. Fear holds us in bondage and contributes to further discouragement.

Setbacks that cause disappointment

Another factor that adds to discouragement is setbacks. We strive and work to achieve certain outcomes, for example: working for years to accumulate retirement income; putting in countless hours to build a successful side hustle; pouring prayer and effort into parenting children who follow God. When our efforts are disrupted or when we encounter setbacks beyond our control, we often feel discouraged.

During the past many months of global pandemic, we’ve experienced all three of the primary factors of discouragement. In some manner, our world-wide population has encountered weariness, fear, and setbacks that have brought disappointment and discouragement.

How to Handle Discouragement

Thankfully, God’s Word gives us careful instruction and encouragement on how to handle discouragement. The Scriptures show us how to overcome disappointment and deal with discouragement to walk in victory.

There are many examples of discouragement in the Bible, along with stories of hope and healing for those afflicted. Staying focused on God’s Word brings peace we can never muster in our own strength. It’s helpful to place note cards with Bible verses in a place where you’ll see them often. They will remind you of God’s truth in your situation. For example, if you’re feeling hopeless, write out Romans 15:13 on a card and place it where you’ll see it and read it often. Allow its truth to penetrate your heart and mind.

To do find the most help with discouragement will require:

• naming each “category” of discouragement that you are experiencing by asking the Lord to help you identify those areas
• finding a Bible passage that dispels the lies of the enemy and points to God’s truth. Again, ask the Lord to help you identify the verses then find them. (Google is also a good tool. Type in “what does the Bible say about discouragement”)
• taking the time to write out the verses
• memorizing the verses so that when you’re not near your notecards you can still resist the enemy with the power of God’s truth

I’ve recently compiled a collection of Bible verses to help uplift anyone facing a difficult season of discouragement. Here they are:

15 Bible Verses About Discouragement

Isaiah 41:10 Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will hold on to you with my righteous right hand.

Romans 15:13 Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you believe so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Lamentations 3:22-24 Because of the LORD’s faithful love we do not perish, for his mercies never end. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness! I say, “The LORD is my portion, therefore I will put my hope in him.”

Hebrews 10:23 Let us hold on to the confession of our hope without wavering since he who promised is faithful.

Psalm 33:22 May your faithful love rest on us, LORD, for we put our hope in you.

Romans 8:31  What then are we to say about these things? If God is for us, who is against us?

2 Chronicles 20:15  This is what the Lord says, “Do not be afraid or discouraged . . . for the battle is not yours, but God’s.”

To bring us to 15 Bible verses about discouragement, I’ve collected eight additional verses and designed them into printable notecards that you can carry with you or post in a prominent location.

*Please note: by clicking download, you will receive email notifications, updates and product announcements from Cathy McIntosh and Strengthened by the Word Ministries. You are free to unsubscribe from the notifications at any time. 

The Power of Worship to Find Encouragement

Worship is another powerful weapon to help overcome discouragement. Fill your home, your car, your mind, and your workplace (to the extent possible) with worship music. Praise Him continually. The Lord inhabits the praise of His people and where His light is, darkness flees. Whether we’re singing along with the music or listening to it in the background, it will begin to feel like a companion that helps keep thoughts positive and focused on God.

** By the way, all of the verses listed above are from the HCSB.

Please know that the Lord never leaves nor forsakes His children. Whatever you face today, you do not face it alone. He is with you. I encourage you to keep your mind fixed on Him. That is the surest way to embrace the gift of joy He has waiting for you.

Also, if you’re struggling with discouragement today, will you reach out and let me know so I can lift you in prayer? It’s my honor to stand with you during this difficult season.

Blessings,

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