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For When You Need God’s Guidance: The Pillar of Cloud and Fire
“I wish God would make the way clear like he did with the pillar cloud of fire,” I said to a friend as we talked about finding God’s direction. “I’ve had the same thought,” she agreed. “But I’ve also realized he’s given us something better. The pillar of fire didn’t go away. It came to dwell within us.” “That’s a remarkable way of looking at it,” I reacted. When God’s people wandered in the wilderness on their journey to the Promised Land, God led them with a pillar cloud of fire. The fire guided them at night, and a cloud guided them by day. God’s guidance was unmistakable and straightforward. …
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8 Bible Verses for New Seasons and Fresh Starts
Today we turned the calendar to a new month. With hopes that the dark, cold days of winter are truly behind us, we look ahead with expectation. The daffodils are fighting their way through the earth, and the sun lingers longer overhead. Whether you’re facing a new calendar season or a new season in life, let’s spend some time reflecting on eight Bible verses for new seasons today. Bible Verses for New Seasons I invite you to soak in the following truths as you look to the Lord to lead you into the new season ahead. Be sure to read to the end of today’s post for a free devotional…
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The Parable of the Talents: Don’t Waste Your Gifts
Today, we’ll take a closer look at a parable that teaches us the importance of using our God-given gifts for his glory. After this Parable of the Talents summary, we’ll share practical applications as well. Be sure to read to the end of today’s post for a free devotional eBook to help you respond to God’s calling. Let’s begin with a summary of the Parable of the Talents. The Parable of the Talents Jesus shared this parable in Matthew 25:14-30. In the parable, a business owner went on a trip. He called his servants to look after his assets while he was away. One servant received five bags of silver. …
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Encouraging Bible Passages for Hope and Courage
Winter writes a monochrome story in shades of gray. I gaze out the window feeling defeated by a handful of discouraging situations, ranging from disappointments in my career to physical injuries that impact my everyday rhythms. Pulling out my Bible, I decide to soak in God’s words as I seek encouraging Bible passages to speak into my circumstances. We all deal with defeat. Dreams don’t work out as we expected. Medical issues sideline us for weeks, months, or years. We lose loved ones for a myriad of reasons. During these times, it’s easy to lose hope. Meanwhile, God’s Word is an anchor. Scripture is a source of hope for the…
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Bible Verses on Safety and Protection in God’s Presence
Throughout most of my adult life, I’ve held onto the following declaration: “The safest place in the world is the center of God’s will.” I cling to the promise that whenever I’m walking in God’s will, I am also safe with God. Today, we’ll explore 15 Bible verses on safety and protection in God’s presence. Then, I’ll share a way these Scriptures upheld me through a difficult time. We’ll explore the difference between safe with God and being secure in his love as I challenge you to redefine your perception of safety. Be sure to read to the end of today’s post for a free devotional eBook that will help…
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10 Prayers for Direction and Clarity
The old poplar stretches toward a cloudless sky as yesterday’s snowflakes swirl in tiny cyclones below. I’ve been counting the lessons of winter as the snow piles higher. As I gaze out the window, I take the time to assess my life, my daily rhythms, and the state of my soul. I find myself lifting prayers for direction and clarity for the next season of life. Perhaps you need this space as well. Today, we’ll talk about how to find God’s direction and the importance of seeking his guidance. We’ll also explore ten prayers for direction and clarity. Be sure to read to the end of today’s post for a…
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20 Bible Verses About Putting Others First
Most of us know God calls us to put others first, but living this out isn’t simple or easy. Today, we’ll explore 20 Bible verses about putting others first. We’ll also explore practical ways to make sure we are putting people ahead of tasks while also maintaining balance. Be sure to read to the end of today’s post for a free devotional eBook to help you put others first. Let’s begin by turning to God’s Word. 20 Bible Verses About Putting Others First Scripture has a great deal to say about putting the needs of others first. Bible Verses About Putting Others First 1. Romans 12:10 ESV Love one another…
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God’s Guidance: 4 Ways to Find His Direction
Standing on the shoreline beneath Alaska’s midnight sun, the hollow clap of clear water against stone echoes beneath my feet. I’ve come to Alaska to seek God’s guidance for my life. I have no way of knowing that God is waiting to offer direction that has little to do with the questions I’ve been asking. I’m 21 years old, and I’m seeking answers about my career, myself, and my faith. I don’t know it yet, but God is waiting to graciously provide answers to all three. How to Find God’s Guidance I’ve been praying about whether to leave my home in Pennsylvania to pursue a teaching career in Alaska. Meanwhile,…
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10 Bible Verses About Change and Transition
The cobalt skies have faded to grey, and aside from a few crumpled leaves, the poplar tree beside our house has shed her summer foliage. Most of the leaves are scattered on the deck in shades of burnt sienna, and I don’t have the heart to sweep them away just yet. I’ve never been great at handling change. As I consider this, I pull out my Bible verses about change and transition in life. Today, I want to hold on to lingering twilight, campfires in the yard, and supper on the deck. Everything within me wants to hold onto barefoot water fights and footraces around a flourishing garden. Change can…
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God Uses Broken People—and He Wants to Use You
Have you ever wondered if your mistakes disqualify you from serving God? Today, I warmly invite you to travel back in time with me, and I’ll bear witness to the fact that God uses broken people—and he wants to use you. We’ll also look at eight biblical figures who were used by God despite their brokenness. Be sure to read to the end of today’s post for a free devotional eBook to encourage you as you follow God by faith. Now, I invite you into my story of brokenness. God Uses Broken People My early twenties were tumultuous. I was angry with God and decided to live for myself instead…
