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Encouraging & Inspiring

Category: Devotional

  • “I believe, but help my unbelief.”

    “I believe, but help my unbelief.”

    His son was in trouble, and the father’s world was rocked almost to its core. Mark tells us an evil spirit had seized the boy and would often cause him to have convulsions. This would often cause the boy to fall into fire or water. The dad had faith, but his faith had been pulled to its very end. He couldn’t see a way out of this circumstance. Filled with desperation, he cried out to Jesus.

    As they were explaining the situation to Jesus, the people said, “The spirit often throws him into the fire or into water trying to kill him. Have mercy on us and help us if you can.’ ‘What do you mean if I can,’ Jesus asked. ‘Anything is possible if a person believes,” records Mark 9:22-23.

    Then verse 24 states, “The father instantly cried out, ‘I do believe but help me overcome my unbelief!”

    No Relief

    His son was enduring a horrific problem, and this dad’s world was shaking violently as he was amid a monstrous trial. We know he requested the disciples help, and we can assume he sought help elsewhere. Nothing was working though. No matter where he turned it seemed there was no end to this father’s crisis. Day after day, night after night, seizure after seizure the boy’s condition continued, and it seemed there was no relief from the crisis. Can you relate?

    Our world is rocked by a trial. As our world trembles, we search for solid footing, but we can’t find it. The longer we seek a solution, the more discouraged we become. We believe the Lord has a plan, but our eyes are blurred by the current season so we can’t see how to get through it. In these moments, Scripture suggests we follow the example of the father. We seek wisdom from the Lord to help us.

    James 1:5-8 encourages, “If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking. But when you ask him, be sure that your faith is in God alone. Do not waiver for a person with divided loyalty is as unsettled as a wave of the sea that is blown and tossed by the wind. Such people should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. Their loyalty is divided between God and the world, and they are unstable in everything they do.”

    The Way Out

    While we may not see it today, we can have confidence the Lord will lead us out of our crisis. The way out may not be immediate. It may involve several steps, but the Lord will get us there. We know he will because he has helped so many before us.

    Remember how he helped the people of Israel. They were headed out of their trial in Egypt. They needed to cross the Red Sea, so God made the wind blow. They needed water, so the Lord made it pour out of a rock. The people needed to eat, so God made manna fall from Heaven. There were several steps in ending the trial, but the Lord showed Israel the way.

    Jesus stopped the father’s world from shaking. Jesus released the grip of the evil spirit. In 9:25-27, Mark records, “He said, ‘I command you to come out of this child and never enter him again.’ Then the spirit screamed and threw the boy into another violent convulsion, and left him. The boy appeared to be dead…. But Jesus took him by the hand and helped him to his feet, and he stood up.” The trouble was over. The boy was free and the father’s crisis ended because of Jesus.

    If your world is shaking today and you do not see how the Lord is going to get you through this crisis, remember he will. He has helped people get through, and he will help you. Echo the words of the father, “I do believe, but help me Lord because I don’t see it right now.”

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  • Showing Up: Don’t Underestimate the Power of Your Presence

    Showing Up: Don’t Underestimate the Power of Your Presence

    “I don’t know what to say” has been my thought many times. A loved one or close friend is hurting, and I can’t manufacture words to ease the pain. Can you relate?

    When people are hurting, we often feel pressure to find the perfect words. We want to say something that will remove the pain or answer every question, but often, that isn’t possible. Our words fail, but there is still a way we can help. We can show up. This can be one of the greatest gifts we offer.

    “Be happy with those who are happy, and weep with those who weep,” encourages Romans 12:15.

    There’s power in our presence. It alone speaks volumes, so we don’t have to have the perfect words. Our presence says…

    • “I’m here.”
    • “I care for you.”
    • “I’m going to walk with you through this.”

    We see Jesus live this idea out through his ministry. Before saying anything, Jesus often showed up and had compassion on the person.

    Friends, don’t underestimate the power of your presence.

    • A hospital visit.
    • A phone call.
    • A handwritten note.
    • A conversation over coffee.

    These simple actions may seem small, but they communicate an important message:

    “You are not alone.”

    Many people are carrying burdens others cannot see. Your willingness to simply show up may become one of the greatest encouragements they receive, so don’t underestimate the power of presence.

    Sometimes, the greatest way we can express our love is by showing up.

  • A Teachable Heart

    A Teachable Heart

    A Teachable Heart

    One of the greatest obstacles to growth is the belief that we have nothing left to learn. Think about how much things change at work. The tools we use, the methods we follow, and the technology available to us are constantly evolving. We have to keep learning if we want to keep up, so we keep learning. What if we approached life in the same way?

    The Bible encourages us to continually learn.

    “Instruct the wise, and they will be even wiser. Teach the righteous, and they will learn even more” (Proverbs 9:9).

    Work is just one of the places we have to learn. Life is always offering a lesson, and one of the greatest qualities we can possess is a teachable spirit.

    God often uses experiences, Scripture, circumstances, and other people to teach us valuable lessons. The question is whether we are willing to listen and learn.

    A teachable person remains open to correction. They understand they do not have all the answers. They welcome opportunities to grow. This attitude is essential in the Christian life.

    It seems the Lord continually works to refine our character and strengthen our faith. These lessons can be encouraging, but they can also be tiring. The challenge for us is to keep learning.

    Friends, we should ask God for a teachable heart. The Lord can do amazing work through someone who is willing to learn.

  • You Are Noticed. The Lord Doesn’t Overlook You.

    You Are Noticed. The Lord Doesn’t Overlook You.

    Do you feel overlooked?

    You work hard every day, but it seems everyone else receives the recognition and praise.

    You’re constantly on the move to care for your home and family, but you don’t even receive a grunt of thanks from your spouse.

    You give it your all, but it seems no one notices. It can be discouraging, and if this is you, the Bible offers encouragement.

    Jesus says, “Give your gifts in private, and your Father, who sees everything, will reward you” (Matthew 6:4). These few words offer much encouragement.

    Our culture celebrates visibility. We’re encouraged to seek attention, yet much of the Christian life takes place where few people are watching. It can be…

    • A quiet prayer.
    • An unseen act of kindness.
    • A faithful commitment that no one else recognizes.

    These moments matter, and Jesus teaches that our Heavenly Father sees what is done in secret. Nothing goes unnoticed.

    Dwell on this for a second. This is really encouraging!

    If you are…

    • The person caring for a loved one. The Lord notices your compassion, love, and dedication.
    • The volunteer serving behind the scenes. The Lord sees your commitment and dedication even when others don’t.
    • The worker performing daily tasks with integrity. The Lord applauds your honesty and hard work.
    • The Christian quietly living out their faith. The Lord recognizes your daily faithfulness.

    If you feel overlooked today, remember that your faithfulness is never wasted. The God who sees in secret values every act of obedience done for his glory.

    • Keep serving.
    • Keep trusting.
    • Keep being faithful.

    The Lord notices even if no one else does.

  • When the Plan Changes…

    When the Plan Changes…

    I’m a planner. I like to know what is happening and when. I do my best to have the day planned, but sometimes, the best made plans are interrupted. A well-planned day becomes chaotic, and I have to remind myself of a truth found in Scripture.

    I believe many others can relate. We set goals, establish timelines, and imagine how life will unfold, yet sometimes, all the plans fall apart. When they do, we can stand on this truth: “You can make many plans, but the LORD’s purpose will prevail” (Proverbs 19:21).

    Sometimes, God moves us in a different direction. Doors close, opportunities disappear, and what we thought was perfectly planned changes. These changes can feel disappointing; however, God’s redirection is often his protection or preparation. Ruth likely never imagined leaving her homeland would lead her into God’s greater purpose. Paul’s missionary journeys included numerous changes and unexpected turns. God uses every detour for good. Romans 8:28 reminds us the Lord works all things for the good of those who love him.

    When plans change, we may be tempted to panic. Instead, we can choose to trust.

    God sees roads we cannot see, and he knows exactly where he wants to lead us.

    Friends, a changed direction does not mean God has abandoned his purpose for your life. It may simply mean he is guiding you toward something better.

  • Ordinary Days Have Extraordinary Opportunities

    Ordinary Days Have Extraordinary Opportunities

    Are you waiting for the next big moment? It seems many people spend their lives waiting for something remarkable to happen. They look forward to special opportunities, major accomplishments, or life-changing moments, and while there is great joy in these moments, most of life is lived in ordinary days. Anticipating these events can be exciting, but the Bible encourages us not to overlook the power of the ordinary day.

    “Do not despise these small beginnings, for the LORD rejoices to see the work begin…” (Zechariah 4:10).

    Most of life is lived in ordinary moments. We wake up, go to work, complete responsibilities, spend time with family, and carry out routines that may appear insignificant. Yet, God often accomplishes his greatest purposes through ordinary days. Just look at some examples from Scripture.

    • David was tending sheep when God was preparing him for leadership.
    • The disciples were engaged in everyday work when Jesus called them to follow him.
    • A small boy offered a simple lunch that Jesus used to feed thousands.

    God delights in using ordinary people, ordinary circumstances, and ordinary days for extraordinary purposes. We should never assume that a day is unimportant simply because it seems routine.

    • A conversation may encourage someone who is struggling.
    • A prayer may impact a situation more than you realize.
    • A small act of obedience may open the door to something much greater.

    Today may seem ordinary, but when placed in God’s hands, ordinary days can become opportunities for eternal impact.

    Friends, don’t overlook the ordinary. Ask the Lord to help you recognize the opportunities placed before you today.

    Thanks for reading.

  • If you’re feeling overlooked, the Bible offers encouragement.

  • The Courage to Begin Again

    The Courage to Begin Again

    Do you find yourself starting over today? The job you had is gone. Your relationship with someone has ended. You’ve been chasing a dream, but you’ve slammed head-first into a wall. You have no choice but to start over. It is rarely easy.

    Sometimes life takes an unexpected turn. A career path changes. A relationship ends. A dream that once seemed certain suddenly disappears. In those moments, beginning again can feel overwhelming, but the Bible offers encouragement.

    Joshua understood what it meant to face a new beginning. After Moses’ death, the responsibility of leading Israel rested on his shoulders. The task before him was enormous, yet God repeatedly told him to be strong and courageous. “This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the LORD your God is with you wherever you go,” the Lord said in Joshua 1:9.

    The responsibility of starting over may seem enormous, yet God’s words are just as true for us as they were for Joshua. “Be strong and courageous! Don’t be afraid or discouraged. For I am with you wherever you go.”

    Perhaps today you find yourself at a point of starting over. Maybe the future looks uncertain. Maybe you feel unprepared for what lies ahead. If so, the Bible says you can have courage. Amid the uncertainty, the Lord is there. Amid the unknown, the Lord is there. He is with you in the overwhelming times. God often does some of His greatest work through new beginnings.

    The God who opened doors in the past is still leading today. The God who was faithful yesterday remains faithful tomorrow.

    You do not have to have all the answers. You simply need to trust the One who does.

    Take the next step. God will walk with you the rest of the way.

  • Look Beyond Today’s Pain to Tomorrow

    Look Beyond Today’s Pain to Tomorrow

    Have you ever held onto something so tightly it became painful?

    Maybe it was a job that provided security, good health that you took for granted, or the stability of a life that seemed to be going just as planned. Then, without warning, circumstances changed. What once felt safe and secure was suddenly gone. It was painfully ripped from your hands.

    Pain has a way of turning our world upside down. We desperately try to hold on to what we know, but sometimes life forces us to let go. When that happens, we may find ourselves wondering what comes next.

    Jesus understands what it is like to face pain. He experienced rejection, hatred, and physical suffering. He knows what it is like to walk a difficult road, and through his life, death, and resurrection, he shows us where to find hope when pain becomes part of our journey.

    Look Beyond Today’s Pain to Tomorrow

    Jesus walked a path that led to a Roman cross. He knew the suffering that awaited, yet he also knew the cross would not be the end of the story. Beyond the pain was the promise of resurrection. Beyond the suffering was the hope of a better tomorrow.

    We may not know what tomorrow will bring. We may struggle to see how things could ever get better, but we can hold on to the hope that our present pain does not have the final word. God is still at work, even when we cannot see what he is doing.

    Don’t let the pain of today rob you of the hope of tomorrow.

    Rely on the Lord

    As we look toward a better tomorrow, Scripture reminds us where to find strength for today.

    The psalmist declares, “The Lord is for me, so I will have no fear. What can mere people do to me?” (Psalm 118:6).

    Hebrews 13:6 echoes that same promise. “So we can say with confidence, ‘The Lord is my helper, so I will have no fear. What can mere people do to me?’”

    Notice the confidence behind those words. Our circumstances may change, our security may be shaken, and our pain may feel overwhelming, but the Lord remains our helper.

    If you are walking through a painful season today, remember that Jesus understands your pain. Look beyond the struggles of today toward the hope of tomorrow, and rely on the Lord to help you take the next step.

    Today’s pain is not the end of your story. Keep trusting the one who walks beside you.

  • How Bright is Your Flash Light?

    How Bright is Your Flash Light?

    Imagine walking through the woods at night with nothing but a flashlight to guide your way. The trees are tall, the path is narrow, and darkness surrounds you. You turn on your flashlight, and a small beam of light cuts through the darkness.

    You can see a few feet ahead. You can see where to place your next step, but beyond that, the path disappears into the darkness.

    You might wish your flashlight were brighter. You want to see the entire trail, know where it leads, and understand what lies ahead, but for now, you have just enough light to keep moving forward.

    Sometimes, that’s exactly what walking with God feels like. Most of us would like God to show us the entire path ahead. We want detailed plans, clear explanations, and complete certainty about what tomorrow holds. We want to know how things will work out, when our circumstances will change, and what challenges we might face along the way. Instead, God often provides enough light for only the next step.

    Psalm 119:105 says, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” Notice that the verse doesn’t say God’s Word is a spotlight illuminating the entire journey. It describes a lamp that provides enough light to guide our steps. Faith often works this way.

    God may not reveal every detail of tomorrow, but he will provide what we need for today. Through his word, he gives us wisdom, direction, and encouragement to keep moving forward, even when we cannot see what lies ahead.

    Perhaps you’re facing a difficult decision, waiting for an answer to prayer, or wondering how a challenging situation will turn out. You may wish God would turn on the floodlights and show you exactly where the road leads, but what if he’s already given you enough light for the next step?

    Instead of worrying about the entire journey, focus on the next step. Trust the Lord with the things you cannot see, and faithfully follow the light he has provided.

    Trust the Lord today, then trust him tomorrow. You may not be able to see the entire path, but you can rest in the assurance that God knows where it leads. The Lord will light your way, one step at a time.