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You meet the most interesting people when you get away from your familiar places. On a recent trip, a woman I met challenged me to remain present with her. Not with her words, but with her attitude. She needed hope and encouragement in almost every interaction we had. Yet her brash and demanding ways pushed people away, including me. I struggled to listen carefully with grace and compassion. After we went our separate ways, I confessed my struggles with her to God. Her needs were real and prominent. What’s Been On My Heart When was the last time you sat and listened to someone unburden themselves? The true gift in those moments is not having the answers or the solutions, but simply being present with the other person to share their pain, angst, confusion, and concerns. Meeting a person there allows you to bring them to God through prayer, the only one who truly understands their struggle, and provides the healing path. Pray for them. Pray over them if they will allow it. D.L. Moody said, “Some people think God does not like to be troubled with our constant coming and asking. The way to trouble God is not to come at all.” Yes, God desires to hear what’s on your heart even more than your best friend does. He’s not put off by unfinished sentences, stumbling words, or even your anger. God’s father-heart desires to connect with you at all times. Listen to Jesus’ beautiful words of invitation: Matthew 11:28-30 The MESSAGE “Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.” This week, I’ve been sitting with that invitation in a new way. Like that precious woman I mentioned, when frustrated, tired, or afraid, my attitude suffers, too. Something for You This song rocked me at church a couple of weeks ago as I thought about connecting with God. Through Jesus, I have everything I need. I pray this song reminds you of what you have through Jesus, no matter your current circumstances. 🙏🏻 A Prayer for You Dear God, getting to connect with you is enough. You know Reader’s circumstances and needs. You see Reader’s heart, cares, and concerns. Create in Reader an unquenchable desire to seek you—to run to you daily, especially when life feels heavy. Whether Reader feels worn out, overwhelmed, excited, hopeful, or discouraged, pour your unforced rhythms of grace over Reader. Remind Reader that they are never alone. They are seen and held in your safe arms. May Reader feel supported in every part of the journey. You alone are God, and we give you all glory, honor, and praise. Amen. |
I empower faith-based women like you to recover well after discovering their husband's or significant others struggle with the dark places on the internet. Every Monday you'll receive encouragement and other carefully curated content to help you heal and find the freedom you desire.
This past weekend I did something I have never done—ever. I set aside three days for a personal retreat, intentionally focused on caring for myself. Mind, body, and soul. 🌿 Time in nature. The sound of water moving gently. Floating in cool water and letting everything just…still. God knew exactly how much my soul needed this reconnection—with nature, with him, with the quiet he so graciously provides when we finally stop long enough to receive it. And what a week to arrive refreshed. Because...
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