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How to Find Spiritual Friends Who Will Carry Your Burdens
Sweet friendships refresh the soul and awaken our hearts with joy, for good friends are like the anointing oil that yields the fragrant incense of God’s presence. Proverbs 27:9, TPT Sweet Friendships Refresh the Soul I once owned an inflatable two-person river raft and regularly convinced my adventurous friends to join me as I rafted down the Allegheny River. I enjoyed rafting by myself, but it was more fun floating with a friend. Having someone with me also provided safety for the journey. At certain points on the river, we had to climb out of the raft to avoid fallen trees and large boulders in the water. Having someone to…
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Consequences of Bitterness in the Bible: Finding Freedom
We all face the temptation to let bitter roots grow in our hearts. Today, we’ll talk about the consequences of bitterness in the Bible and explore practical ways to find freedom. In Scripture, bitterness is described as a root that grows and spreads. If left unchecked, it hardens our hearts. Hebrews 12:15 warns, “See to it that no one fails to obtain the grace of God; that no ‘root of bitterness’ springs up and causes trouble, and by it many become defiled” (ESV). Bitterness is frequently associated with unresolved anger, resentment, and unforgiveness. It is the bad fruit of holding onto grudges and holding offenses against others. The Consequences of…
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10 Prayer Points for Alignment With God
A falling veil of white greets me with the dawn, folding me into itself. I watch the snowflakes flutter to the earth as I ask God to align my heart with his heart. Throughout the past year, this prayer for alignment has transformed my life. Today, we’ll look at 10 prayer points for alignment with God as we aim to stay in step with him. Also, be sure to read to the end of today’s post for a free devotional eBook to help you come into greater alignment with God. 10 Prayer Points for Alignment With God Praying this way has helped me shift from making lists of self-centered requests…
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15 Bible Verses for Birthdays: Bless Your Loved Ones
Our daughter recently turned 15, and as she inches closer to adulthood, I’ve been speaking God’s Word over her life. No matter how old a person is turning, praying Scripture over them on their birthdays can be a rich blessing. Today, we’ll look at 15 Bible verses for birthdays. You might write these Scriptures inside a birthday card or pray them over your loved one. I also invite you to read to the end of today’s post for several family devotional books that make faith-building gifts for boys and girls on their special days. You’ll also find a library of free online devotionals to help you grow closer to God.…
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7 Prayers of Thanksgiving for Even the Toughest Days
We awoke to a periwinkle drizzle, tears of firmament clinging to spruce boughs and unadorned oak branches. As I watched the day begin, I focused on prayers of Thanksgiving, fixing my eyes on what was true, lovely, right, pure, and good. As always, the practice of giving thanks shifted my mood. After spending a few minutes in gratitude, the tone for the day had been set. 7 Prayers of Thanksgiving Gratitude is powerful for all of us. Let’s take some time to pray with thanksgiving and watch this practice transform our hearts. I also invite you to read to the end of today’s post for a free Advent devotional to…
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10 Prayers of Praise to Lift Your Head
A white moon washes the forest in waves of pellucid light, a benediction. I went to the woods to ground myself. As the light fades, I realize I’ve stayed longer than planned. Closing my eyes in the moonlight, I turn to God with prayers of praise in hopes that he might lift my head. When life is challenging, turning to God in praise can help us rise above our circumstances. This doesn’t mean we ignore our emotions; rather, we process them in God’s presence. After we have sorted through these feelings, we anchor ourselves to God. One way to secure this anchor is through praise. If you need God to…
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Finding Joy in the Lord: 9 Biblical Tips
I’m bent over an industrial meat slicer—not thinking a thing in the world about finding joy in the Lord—when a phrase comes to mind: “Why do we often have to lose what we have to appreciate it?” I’m 21 years old, and I’m far from my home in Pennsylvania. I’m working in a deli in the middle of Alaska, saving money for next year’s college expenses, and hiking every time I get a free hour. I love Alaska. The view of endless mountains intrigues me. I love to watch the fireweed dance beneath the midnight sun and sit by the river that flows grey with glacial silt. This place meets…
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Honor God With Your Body: 12 Practical Ways
Have you ever wondered how to honor God with your body? Perhaps you’ve read Romans 12:1 and want to apply it to your life: “Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship” (NIV). Today, we’ll talk about how to honor God with your body by practicing 12 practical steps. I invite you to join me on a clear winter morning, and we’ll explore the idea of bringing God glory in all we do. Be sure to read to the end of today’s post for a free devotional…
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15 Bible Verses About Fitness and Caring for Your Body
Caring for our bodies is important, but it’s not easy to find balance in this area. It’s easy to vacillate between neglecting our bodies and putting excessive energy into caring for them. Today, we’ll explore 15 Bible verses about fitness and health as we seek this balance. I also invite you to read to the end of today’s post for a free devotional eBook to help you honor God with your body. 15 Bible Verses About Fitness and Health “I’ve been struggling with taking the time to exercise and keeping up with the rest of my life,” a friend recently admitted. “I know I honor God when I care for…
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15 Bible Verses for Travel: Anxiety, Safety, and Uncertainty
After 11 days on the road, we returned home to western Pennsylvania last week. All in all, the trip reminded me of how to thoroughly enjoy God and his gifts in every situation. I also pulled out my Bible as I reflected on God’s Word regarding travel. Today, we’ll look at 15 Bible verses for travel. At the end of today’s post, I’ll share some practical insights we can learn from traveling. You’ll also find a free devotional eBook that makes a great travel companion. 15 Bible Verses for Travel Let’s start by turning to God’s Word. Bible Verses for Travel: Anxiety, Safety, and Joy 1. Proverbs 16:9 The heart…
