SMS Magazine-Summer 2025, How to Pray When Life Gets Really Tough by 4JesusChrist

GOD

Glory to God in the highest, in the name of our precious Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Sundie Morning Sistas Magazine

How to Pray When Life Gets Really Tough

Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Wheaton, Illinois 60189. All rights reserved.

Scripture quotations marked (KJV) are taken from The Authorized Version or King James Version (KJV), 1611, 1769. Outside of the United Kingdom, the KJV is in the public domain. Within the United Kingdom, the rights to the KJV are vested in the Crown.

English Standard Version (ESV)

Issue: Summer 2025

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he world is in an unprecedented state of upheaval and uncertainty. And let’s be real—some of the trouble and tribulation many of us are facing feels just as intense as the global chaos. This is a season like no other. You might be asking, “When is this going to end?” or “What can I even do to help?” Here’s the good news: God hasn’t left us defenseless. We have the example of our victorious Lord and Savior to follow, God’s powerful Spirit is living within us, and we’ve been given the unfailing gift of prayer.

1 Thessalonians 5:17 (KJV) tells us, “Pray without ceasing.” This simple but profound instruction reveals God’s Will for us. He knows our lives are full—jobs, families, responsibilities, and endless to-do lists, but this verse speaks to a lifestyle. It’s a continual posture of the heart that stays connected to Him. It's not about nonstop words but about a mindset and spiritual covering that keeps us anchored through every kind of season—both the calm and the stormy ones.

Humble, holy, and surrendered; this is the right heart and head space that sets us up for an intimate and effective prayer life. It really matters, because when we come like that, we please our Heavenly Father and open ourselves to His strength and direction. Jesus Himself gave us a beautiful template in Matthew 6:10–13, showing us how to pray in a way that aligns our hearts with heaven’s agenda.

That’s what this issue, “How to Pray When Life Gets Really Tough”, is all about—returning to the basics with fresh eyes and a renewed heart. Even if you’ve been walking with the Lord for years, the journey doesn’t stop. We still need to renew our minds daily and stay in step with the new mercies God pours out every morning. This season calls for us to remember our responsibility to remain flexible to His Will. We hope the teachings in this issue will help you on your journey of continual and elevated reverence, acknowledging God’s holiness, surrendering your agenda, and trusting that His way is always best.

Lovingly In Christ,

Reverend Fran Mack, President and Founder, SMS

PS: Thank you for your continued prayers and support!

"Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us." Romans 8:37(NKJV)

“How

hen life gets really tough, everything can seem overwhelming. Our sense of peace is more challenging to maintain, our focus on our faith in God is not as steady as it once was, and we may simply feel lost. Whether it’s financial struggles, problems at work or at home, loss, or another issue that is robbing us of our overall well-being, our emotions can become tangled as we try to navigate it all. We might feel as though everything is falling apart, including ourselves, and we’re uncertain about how to approach God.

One of the most profound treasures that Jesus has given us is the model prayer in Matthew 6:9-13, which is commonly known as the Lord’s

Prayer. This extraordinary grace provided by our Savior is a timeless guide to help us pray in every season, especially during the toughest moments of our lives. “This prayer isn’t relevant today,” some might argue regarding some parts. They may think this way because we live in the age of grace, but when Jesus taught this prayer, he knew exactly how essential it would remain throughout the ages. Its simplicity, humility, and depth are precisely what we need in order to understand the heart posture required to honor God’s greatness. We need not question the brilliance of the illumination Jesus provided. This is a powerful template that is as relevant today as it was when Jesus first spoke it.

to Pray When Life Gets Really Tough”

Acknowledge Who God Is

Thessalonians 5:17 (NLT) tells us to “pray without ceasing.” This verse should anchor us in the importance of prayer. Not only should it be our practice in the face of struggles, but it should be a pattern for us even when things are going well. Prayers are not to inform God of anything He doesn’t already know—He’s omniscient. The psalmist wrote in Psalm 139:2 (NLT), “You know when I sit down or stand up. You know my thoughts even when I’m far away.” Our Heavenly Father knows every detail there is to know about us. He knows all our challenges, needs, heartbreaks, and disappointments. In Matthew 6:8 (NLT), Jesus Christ said, “your Father knows exactly what you need even before you ask him.” So, our prayers to God are much more than communicating with Him about our needs and desires. They are an affirmation of our faith and acknowledgment of all that He is.

And as we go before Heavenly Father, the awe and reverence for who He is should already be anchored in our hearts. He is holy—His name is holy—and acknowledging this, along with the greatness of His Kingdom, is an act of honor and reverence. God is supreme! He is all-powerful, omniscient, majestic, and awe-inspiring. He is perfect beyond perfection, magnificent beyond magnificence, and brilliant beyond brilliance. Revelation 4:3-5 (NLT) provides a glimpse into His

glory: “3 The one sitting on the throne was as brilliant as gemstones—jasper and carnelian. And the glow of an emerald circled his throne like a rainbow. 4 Twenty-four thrones surrounded him, and twenty-four elders sat on them. They were all clothed in white and had gold crowns on their heads. 5 And from the throne came flashes of lightning and the rumble of thunder.” This vision of God’s throne reveals that His majesty is beyond our comprehension. Everything about Him is dynamic and inspiring, and He has woven His glory into all of creation! This is our Creator! He is the highest; there is no elevation beyond Him. Our Heavenly Father said in Malachi 3:6 (NKJV), “For I am the LORD, I do not change.” No matter how tough things get, God is still God. He’s unchanging and sovereign, and He is the only One worthy of praise. This first part of the prayer to keep God’s name holy reminds us to keep our eyes locked in on His greatness. This means we should shift our focus from our problems to the power and majesty of the One who is always in control. We honor His name by lifting it above our circumstances. In Psalm 145:1-3 (NLT), the psalmist wrote, “I will exalt you, my God the King, and praise your name forever and ever. Every day I will praise you and extol your name forever and ever. Great is the Lord and most worthy of praise; his greatness no one can fathom.” Even in tough times, we begin by worshipping God for who He is.

Pray for His Will to Be Done

od’s Will is rooted in His unchanging nature. In Jeremiah 29:11 (NLT), He said, “For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. "They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” God’s Will for us is good, and it’s especially comforting to know that in a world that is constantly changing, His Will never does. His purpose, plans, and desires for us are steadfast and unshakable. They keep us in His perfect peace. When we seek His Will and plan with our whole heart, it brings a stabilizing effect to every area of our lives.

If we’re brutally honest, when life gets difficult, most of us find ourselves asking “Why?” or “Why me?” It’s often shocking how hard life can hit us when we least expect it. Wanting to understand why we’ve been shaken to such a degree is a very common response. But when we get right down to the root cause of all the devastation and disappointment we face in life, the answer to “Why?” is this: we have a spiritual enemy that is evil in every way. Jesus Christ tells us in John 10:10 that the devil is in the earth to “steal, kill, and destroy.” It’s no secret that he’s always on the lookout for an opening to cause havoc and devastation.

Even when we do our best to close all the doors and shut him out, life still happens, but here’s the truth: we are not without the spiritual weaponry to stand strong amidst attacks. In Ephesians 6:11 (NLT), God tells us: “Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil.”

When we pray, it’s important to understand that through our blessed Redeemer, God has already equipped us to handle every obstacle and adversity. No matter the battle, we are victorious in Christ! 1 John 5:4 (NLT) says, “For every child of God defeats this evil world, and we achieve this victory through our faith.” Our victory was secured by our Lord and Savior through his sacrifice and resurrection. He did not remain in the grave; he got up! This is God’s Will for us—to

come out of every oppression victoriously. It is very important that our confidence in 1 John 5:4 is firm, that its in our hearts and on our minds when we pray. We don’t need to know all the details of how our Heavenly Father works behind the scenes on our behalf. Praying for His Will to be done is praying for the very best outcome. It’s an act of surrender, acknowledging that His plan is always greater than ours.

So, there’s a shift in our minds and hearts that should happen when life gets tough. As we pray to our Heavenly Father, our focus should shift from our own desires to the perfection of His Will and power. He knows exactly what to do and how to do it. His timing is always perfect. Our humility and submission to the truth of this allows God’s peace to reign in our hearts, even when we don’t understand our circumstances.

We must also remember that God has given us the heart and faith to pray for His Will to be done everywhere, not just in our personal circumstances. James 5:16 (NLT) reminds us, “The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results.” When we’re in a heart space of faith in our prayer lives, our prayers are powerful. We can have confidence that we’re not just speaking words for the sake of saying them, we’re understanding that when we align our words with God’s promises—when we say what He says in the scriptures—power is released!

As 1 Timothy 2:2 (NLT) says, “Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity.” The Word of God is the Will of God, and we should make praying according to His Word a habit pattern. We are called to pray not just for ourselves but for His Will to be done in the world around us. Even when life is tough, we must trust that God’s Will, though it is sometimes mysterious, is perfect. We can have full confidence that He works all things together for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose; He promises this in Romans 8:28.

Pray for His Provision and Thank Him for It

he condition of our hearts and minds towards our Heavenly Father is a very important part of an effective prayer—a prayer that goes up before His throne as a sweet-smelling savor. It is essential that certain truths are already locked in, and one of those is the words spoken by Jesus in Matthew 6:8 (NLT): “Your Father knows exactly what you need even before you ask him!” Our prayers are not informing God of our needs, because He already knows them. They are acknowledging our understanding that He is the One who takes care of our needs, and that He is willing and able to do so.

Philippians 4:19 (NLT) says, “And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus.” When the storms of life are raging, we can feel the weight of uncertainty, and often it brings up a lot of doubt. Whether it’s a physical, emotional, or financial need, anxiety and worry can cause us to doubt God’s provision and comfort. We might wonder if He will really do it— will He come to our rescue as He promised? The answer is a resounding ‘YES!’, and our faith is essential. Hebrews 11:6 (NLT) tells us, “And it is impossible to please God without faith. Anyone who wants to come to him must believe that God exists and that he rewards those who sincerely seek him.”

Fear is an enemy of faith, and it is impossible to have faith and fear at the same time. As believers in the Lord Jesus Christ, we must choose which one will guide our decisions in life. When faith guides us, we acknowledge our trust in God. When fear guides us, it is evident that we don’t know God as well as we should. Our Heavenly Father has all power in His hands. He is the Creator of everything, and nothing, not even the smallest detail slips by Him. He takes care of our needs and never abandons us.

Philippians 4:6-7 (NLT) tells us, “Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God's peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.” These are such comforting Words from our Heavenly Father, and they are also so much more than that. They invite us to live differently, choosing to trust God every moment of our lives. It’s a choice we must make in times of both trouble and joy: Will we trust in God’s provision or doubt it? Let’s always choose to trust God with all that we are, not with just words, but with our whole heart. So, when the storms hit, we don’t just ask for help—we remember who He is; we thank Him for what He’s already done, and we trust that He’ll do it again. That’s when His peace guards our hearts like a shield.

Pray for Your Eyes to Be Opened

hysical eyesight is a very precious and important gift from the Father. It allows us to navigate the world around us. It helps us to appreciate the beauty of creation, and it can increase the enjoyment we share with loved ones. But even as valuable as it is, physical sight pales in comparison to the immeasurable treasure of spiritual sight. Physical sight allows us to see things within this physical world, but spiritual sight is exponentially higher. It allows us to perceive the spiritual realm—the unseen realm of God.

2 Corinthians 3:16-18 (NLT) tells us, “But whenever someone turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. For the Lord is the Spirit, and wherever the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. So all of us who have had that veil removed can see and reflect the glory of the Lord. And the Lord—who is the Spirit—makes us more and more like him as we are changed into his glorious image.” When we are blessed with spiritual sight, our hearts and minds are opened to the things that cannot be seen with the natural eye—like the incomparable beauty and majesty of God's Kingdom, spiritual revelation and insight, knowledge about strategies for increase, and wisdom regarding exactly where and how we should be focusing our prayers. Spiritual sight reveals what is beyond the temporary, material world. It allows us to see what God sees, so we can understand the Gospel and the truth of His purpose for our lives. We can recognize the work of the Holy Spirit and discern the path that God has laid out for us.

Just as physical blindness limits our ability to function in the world around us, spiritual blindness can stunt our growth and keep us from fully embracing the more-than-abundant life that Christ has made available. It can cause us to be blind to our wrong-doing, and to the internal struggles that distort our view of our own sin. Because we often neglect the issues of our souls, they prompt us to compromise our stand on the Word, causing us to

make excuses or think that God has wronged us in some way. Hebrews 4:13 (NIV) tells us, “Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account.” This truth should increase our level of humility. Our Heavenly Father sees beyond our outward behavior. He knows the hidden places we often ignore, and He also knows that those heavies will not remain hidden for long.

Repentance and Resistance

We must also realize that the effectiveness, fulfillment, and fruition of our prayer and personal lives are profoundly influenced by the conditions of our souls. When our hearts are aligned with truth and purpose, our prayers become more than mere words; they become powerful expressions of faith and honor of our God. However, if our souls are burdened by deceit or unresolved conflict, this can affect the faith and gratitude we express in our relationship with our Heavenly Father. He deserves the highest level of praise and worship. If our motivation is to give Him what He so richly deserves, we must repent of our sins, and do so often.

We’re not perfect—we make mistakes, and some of them are doozies, but we shouldn’t allow them to be on repeat. We must resist the temptations the enemy uses to steal from us. James 4:7 (NLT) tells us, “So humble yourselves before God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” Whether it is a good decision or a poor one, every action has a reaction—a response or consequence. God is not at fault for the consequences of our poor decisions and

bad behavior. We often say that we know this, but we must really know it in our hearts, so that we are never tempted to blame God for the punishment the enemy doles out.

Christ reminds us of this in John 4:24 (NLT), “For God is Spirit, so those who worship him must worship in spirit and in truth.” The truth is that God is perfect, He is love, and He never makes mistakes. We create fertile ground for genuine fellowship with Him through Christ by feeding our souls with His truth and seeking clarity from Him about where we’ve gone off the tracks. This is why repentance should be a lifestyle for us. It’s not a one-and-done act. It’s a continual process of surrendering our will to God. Jesus Christ makes it clear that true worship comes from a heart that is sold out to God’s Will, and that surrender can only happen through ongoing, internal transformation. Real repentance means turning away from sin and turning toward God, recognizing that we have fallen short and need His grace to restore us. It’s not a shallow remorse, but a deep, soul-level sorrow for our wrongdoing. Surface level stuff won’t cut it.

“How

Where We Need to Grow

2 Corinthians 4:4 (NLT) says: "Satan, who is the god of this world, has blinded the minds of those who don’t believe. They are unable to see the glorious light of the Good News. They don’t understand this message about the glory of Christ, who is the exact likeness of God." This verse informs us that satan is the God of this world and one of his tricks is to blind the minds of people. Believers and unbelievers alike, both can be spiritually blinded by his deception, especially when their hearts and minds are not guarded by the Word of God.

A blinded mind is a spiritual and mental condition. And to be sure, it doesn’t matter if a person is highly intelligent, successful, and even moral by societal standards, they can still be unable to perceive the truth. A veil is over their understanding, and this means they’re stumbling about in the darkness in some area of their lives.

In Psalm 139:23-24 (NLT), David prayed, “Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life.” This is not just about acknowledging our past wrongs but asking God to help us see what needs to change in our hearts today. We need to pray and ask God to open our spiritual eyes so we can see how we’ve veered away from His purpose and where we need to grow. Often, there’s something going on in our hearts that’s blocking us from walking fully in faith. The veil needs to be removed so we can see not just where we’ve erred, but we’re able to see all the wonderful opportunities God has placed in our lives to grow, heal, thrive, and overcome.

Asking our Heavenly Father for forgiveness is the way to keep our hearts soft, pliable, and open to Him. This is a vital part of our prayer lives—a sacred place where we lay bare before God and come clean about our own shortcomings. We can’t be numb to our sin and continue to ignore it, because if we don’t acknowledge it, we won’t fully appreciate the depth of God’s grace. Seeking His forgiveness for our sins and asking Him to open our eyes to where we need to grow is so important to our spiritual health. When we put ourselves in check and remain humble, through Christ, our spiritual sight can be restored. And with this restored spiritual vision, we are able to repent wholeheartedly, making ourselves available to God’s transforming power.

Pray for A Forgiving Heart

hen our Lord and Savior taught His disciples to pray, He didn’t give them a lengthy speech or a complex ritual. He gave them a simple, powerful framework that is packed with eternal truth. Forgiveness is in the middle of this prayer, and its simplicity conveys both importance and direction. This one sentence, “And forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us” carries healing, restoration, and transformation. It takes us before the throne of the only One that can forgive our sins, and it informs us of the heart He expects when we seek Him. Just as we ask for His forgiveness, we, too, must have a forgiving heart towards others. Our Heavenly Father calls us to have a heart that is pliable and flexible to His Will. We shouldn’t harbor resentment, bitterness, or pride, because those things are not pleasing to Him.

A forgiving heart is one that chooses mercy over memory. Our Heavenly Father chooses to bestow His mercy upon us. Micah 7:18-19 (NLT) demonstrates that He lets go of what He could have remembered: “Where is another God like you, who pardons the guilt of the remnant, overlooking the sins of his special people? You will not stay angry with your people forever, because you delight in showing unfailing love. Once again you will have compassion on us. You will trample our sins under your feet and throw them into the depths of the ocean!” Sin has dead weight, and forgiveness refuses to carry it. We’re to imitate God in all that we do, and following His example means that we forgive those that have offended us. Forgiveness doesn’t mean forgetting the wrong or pretending it

didn’t hurt. It means surrendering the right to hold it over someone’s head. A forgiving heart is free—it doesn’t rehearse the pain, it releases it.

Why Forgiveness Matters

Forgiveness is not just for the person who wronged us—it’s for our own soul. Bitterness, pride, and resentment are like poison we drink hoping the other person gets sick. These heavies cloud our judgment. They are blockers that clog our spiritual flow and stunt our emotional and spiritual growth. Hebrews 12:15 (NLT) warns us: “Watch out that no poisonous root of bitterness grows up to trouble you, corrupting many.” Bitterness doesn’t remain latent, it spreads. Pride blocks grace. And resentment quietly eats away at peace. But forgiveness brings cleansing. It softens a hardened heart and makes room for God’s healing.

How to Cultivate a Forgiving Heart

Forgiveness is a decision before it becomes a feeling. You might not feel like forgiving—but you choose it anyway, out of obedience and trust that God will handle the rest. Prayer is key. Ask the Holy Spirit to help you see people through God’s eyes, not through the lens of pain. Matthew 6:14-15 (NLT) serves to remind us what Jesus said right after teaching the Lord’s Prayer: “If you forgive those who sin against you, your heavenly Father will forgive you. But if you refuse to forgive others, your Father will not forgive your sins.” Forgiveness clears the path between us and God. It invites His mercy to keep flowing freely in our lives.

Pray for God’s Help to Renew Your Mind

esus teaches us to pray for His strength to resist these temptations and to seek deliverance from the enemy who wants to keep us trapped in our struggles. This is the work of the indwelling Holy Spirit. Romans 12:2 (NLT) tells us, “Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.” This part of the prayer reminds us that with God’s help, we can overcome temptation. When we yield to the Spirit’s work, we’ll come out on the other side of temptation with stronger faith.

James 1:13 (NLT) reminds us that our Heavenly Father doesn’t tempt us, and we should never think that He does: “And remember, when you are being tempted, do not say, ‘God is tempting me.’ God is never tempted to do wrong, and he never tempts anyone else.” It’s the enemy, satan, who tries to lure us away from our faith so that our relationship with God is compromised. We must renew our minds to the truth and recognize that God will help us when we’re tempted. He’s given us a line of defense that is unfailing.

Why a Renewed Mind is Crucial

Without a renewed mind, even a saved soul can live stuck. Old mindsets will keep you in cycles you were meant to break free from. A renewed mind is how we start walking in our true identity in Christ. God accepts us just as we are, but we need to know that He doesn’t leave us in that condition. The process of spiritual transformation involves

renewing our hearts and minds through the Holy Spirit. Romans 12:2 encourages us not to be conformed to this world, with all its toxicity and darkness. Instead, we are to be transformed by the renewing of our minds. To renew is to make new again. We’re to change our minds to think new thoughts—ones that are aligned with the truth of God’s Word.

This transformation comes as we surrender ourselves to God’s Will, and this surrender isn’t just about words, it’s about a heart posture of truly allowing Him to have His way. We talk, think, and act differently when our hearts are fully surrendered to Him. We allow Him to reshape our desires, thoughts, and actions to reflect His glory. We shouldn’t hold on to areas of our old life. The resentment and bitterness against those that have wronged us should be dead to us now. Those old fears, habits, or doubts that once hindered the work that God wants to do in us—we should have given them their walking papers.

Just like forgiveness, renewing the mind is a process—it’s daily. It’s choosing God’s way even when your feelings are pulling the other direction. Ephesians 4:23 (NLT) tells us, “Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes.” The Holy Spirit works within, but it’s our responsibility to give him something to work with. 1 Corinthians 2:16 tells us that we have received the mind of Christ, and we can understand spiritual matters. We must change our thoughts to line up with the mind of our powerful Lord.

Continued on page 25

dear friend was finally on what she thought was the path out of a long period of singleness. She had met someone new at her church, and things seemed to be progressing well. He was following the steps that her pastor had taught—pursuing her with genuine interest. He called her almost daily, checked in frequently, and planned thoughtful outings on the weekends. But after a couple of months, everything changed. He decided he didn’t want to continue the relationship, leaving my friend deeply hurt and confused. She confided in me that she was terrified of returning to loneliness, a fear that made her feel incredibly vulnerable.

Psalm 34:18 (NLT) says, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed.” This verse holds profound meaning because it speaks directly to the pain of shattered hopes. Many of us have felt the sting of believing we were finally on the path to the marriage we’ve dreamed about for so long, only to face disappointment when things don’t work out as we had hoped. It’s a crushing blow to our hearts when we envision a future with someone, only to have that vision abruptly end. In these moments of deep hurt and confusion, it can feel like our dreams have been shattered and our spirits have been broken. Yet, Psalm 34:18 reminds us that even in the midst of this heartache, God is near.

Grappling with the need to keep our faith while our minds are racing and desperately searching for inspiration to lift our sadness, finding peace can be incredibly challenging. During these times our hearts and minds wrestle with the weight of disappointment, making it hard to hold onto any hope. We long for something to pull us out of despair; the promise of a new relationship, the beginning of a new chapter, or a light at the end of the tunnel, inspiring confidence that loneliness is a thing of

the past.

God did not cause our pain and disappointment, but He certainly knew it would happen. The psalmist reflects this in Psalm 139:1-4 (NLT): “O Lord, you have examined my heart and know everything about me. You know when I sit down or stand up. You know my thoughts even when I’m far away. You see me when I travel and when I rest at home. You know everything I do. You know what I am going to say even before I say it, Lord.” Our Heavenly Father doesn’t ever want us to be disappointed. This is why, even when it’s hard to see, we can have confidence that the path we’ve always dreamed of is never lost to us.

He said in Isaiah 41:10 (NLT) - “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” We haven’t left the path of God’s purpose and blessings. He’s strengthening us while we’re on it so that our vision and faith are sharper. Not only this, but our endurance has to grow as well. James 1:12 (NLT) tells us, “God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.” As believers who love and trust God, we have no other choice: our mindset and attitude must be one of remaining steadfast, confident that every challenge is refining us for the greater reward God has promised. Don’t let the disappointment and heartache you may be experiencing now hinder the blessings that are sure to come. God's promises are steadfast, and your endurance is not in vain. Stay faithful to God and let your purpose in Christ guide you through these times. In the end, your perseverance will be rewarded with the fulfillment of your heart’s desire, and you will find that the journey, though challenging, leads to a place of God’s exceedingly abundant blessings and grace. ■

o you know anyone who is working relentlessly to elevate themselves in life?

Whether it’s striving for a new job, advancing their career, improving or gaining a relationship, or deepening their spiritual growth, they’ve likely found themselves stuck at a certain level for longer than they’d hoped. They've pushed their current situation to its limits and squeezed every bit of value out of it. Now, they feel an undeniable urge for change and know it’s time to take the leap toward something greater.

As we contemplate next steps, countless questions pop up about our readiness for the blessings we seek. Are we truly prepared for the challenges ahead? Do we have the time, resources, and spiritual strength necessary for such a move? Through delays and disappointment, we learn that it’s not just about desiring change. It’s about ensuring that we’re equipped to handle the demands and growth that come with reaching a new level. As our beloved Lord and Savior reminds us in Luke 14:28 (NLT): “But don’t begin until you count the cost. For who would begin construction of a building without first calculating the cost to see if there is enough money to finish it?” This verse sheds light on the truth that we must have the spiritual maturity and readiness to maintain the change we seek, or else we risk starting something we’re not prepared to sustain.

Sometimes, we find ourselves getting nervous, even to the point of wanting to give up. Doubts creep in, and we begin to question if we can actually make it to the finish line. We wonder if we can endure the waiting, the struggles, and the uncertainty with the tenacity and confidence we need. Reflecting on our blessed Lord’s analogy in Luke 14:28, when it comes to leveling up, beginning construction is our responsibility. According to his divine wisdom, there are a few steps we need to take before starting, and the first is to calculate the cost.

Often, our anxiety about the work ahead arises

because we haven’t taken the necessary steps spiritually and mentally. We focus too much on the reward and forget to lean on God’s strength, grace, and perfect timing. It’s natural to feel nervous when facing change, especially when the journey to achieve what we desire turns out to be more challenging than we originally thought. But our nervousness can be a sign that we need to better prepare spiritually. The first brick we lay must be to sharpen our vision so that what we desire aligns with God’s Word and Will. As Isaiah 30:21 (NLT) says, “Your own ears will hear him. Right behind you a voice will say, ‘This is the way you should go,’ whether to the right or to the left.” When our goals are rooted in His purpose, we can move forward with the confidence that He will guide us every step of the way.

Next-level blessings and accomplishments aren’t just about external promotion; they are a spiritual exercise designed to increase our faith and spiritual maturity. If we view this solely as a step up in our careers or relationships, we miss the deeper truth that God is calling us to grow in faith, trust, and obedience. When we recognize that our capacity to serve others must expand as our desire for greater blessings increases, our hopes will be wrapped in greater confidence. We’ll find peace in knowing we’re not stepping outside of His Will, but fulfilling it.

When His Will is our objective, and our intentions are rooted in a desire to please Him, we can be certain that He will not let us slip or miss what He has for us, no matter what tricks and plots the enemy throws our way. Psalm 37:23-24 (NLT) reminds us: “The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of th eir lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand.” Just as He guides our path, He will keep us steady and secure as we walk in faith. God has given us all the tools to build wisely. Our commitment to follow the example of Jesus Christ as our blueprint will keep us strong and on track from start to finish.■

t 56, Michael often finds himself staring out the window of his living room, the oxygen tank right beside him. It’s a constant reminder of the life he never thought he’d have. The tank hisses softly, a quiet but insistent sound that breaks the otherwise peaceful silence of his home. He looks at his wife, Karen, across the room. She’s sitting in her favorite chair, lost in a book, but his eyes are distant. The years they spent building their life together seem to weigh on him more heavily than ever, and it’s not because of regret. It’s because of the sharp, bitter reality that the life he envisioned for him and his wife has slipped through his fingers like sand.

In his twenties, Michael was the kind of man who stood tall in a room. Handsome, muscular, the picture of strength and discipline. He was a military man—a man of duty, a man of action. But, like many young men full of fire, he also had a side to him that burned for adventure, and sometimes it was in all the wrong ways. A heartbreaker, women came and went, and he thought it was all a part of being a man. He was free, or at least that’s what he thought, but he was making reckless decisions, and in his eyes, that only seemed to make him more of a man. It was always about chasing the next thrill, the next challenge, the next moment of fun.

Then came Karen. She was different, and somehow, he knew it from the very first time they met. She didn’t ask for his attention, but she had it anyway. She saw beyond the tough exterior. She loved him— really loved him—and in a way, she softened him. Karen loved the Lord. Michael didn’t know it then, but she was the one who would teach him what real love is, and that it wasn’t something to be wasted.

They got married, and slowly, Michael began to change. No more late-night parties, and no more distractions. His heart was set on the future, on a life with Karen that would be free of regrets. They were on their grind, working hard, side by side, to build a home and raise a family. Michael started thinking about what life would look like when he could finally stop working. All those years of sacrifice, all those hours spent doing the hard work, all those sleepless nights worrying about how hard Karen was working and taking care of all of them selflessly. He resolved to keep grinding it out so they could retire in plenty of time to enjoy the adventures they had always talked about—the hiking trips, the camping in the mountains, the scuba diving in the Caribbean. They would travel, they would live fully, and they would enjoy every last bit of life they had left.

But those sweet dreams of golden years together began to crack and fade. Michael started smoking when he was just 12, and although he quit in his thirties, the smoking, the drinking, the reckless lifestyle—it all caught up to him. He felt the weight of it, felt his body betray him one breath at a time. Now, at 56, he struggles to catch his breath, feels the weight of every step as if the air itself is working against him. Chronic lung disease. An unforgiving companion that follows him everywhere.

His body was once a symbol of power and pride, but now feels like a prison. He’s angry, and although he prays with Karen and tries to put on a brave face for her, he feels that God has let him down. There are many of us that are dealing with challenges like Michael, and deep down, we feel the same way. But here’s what we must remember, God never forgets about us. In our struggles, when life doesn't go as we expected and our bodies don’t serve us the way they once did, God’s love remains. His faithfulness does not depend on our strength or health. It’s in moments like these, when we’re tired and weary, that we must remind ourselves: “Don’t forget.”

The Bible has so many reminders for us to reflect on God’s goodness, even during our toughest seasons. In Psalm 103:2 (NLT), we are encouraged: “Let all that I am praise the Lord; may I never forget the good things he does for me.” Michael, like many of us, faces the temptation to forget the countless ways God has shown up in his life—his marriage to Karen, the love they share, the provision God has given through the years. Despite the pain and disappointment, we are still commanded by our Heavenly Father to count our blessings, and to be very thankful for them all.

Even though Michael’s body has become a reminder of his past choices, God still sees him. In fact, the Bible says that God's love is greater than any struggle we might face. 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 (NLT) reminds us of this truth: “That is why we never give up. Though our bodies are dying, our spirits are being renewed every day. For our present troubles are small and won’t last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever! So we don’t look at the troubles we can see now; rather, we fix our gaze on things that cannot be seen. For the things we see now will soon be gone, but the things we cannot see will last forever.”

The struggles Michael faces are real, but they are also temporary. His body might be breaking down, but his spirit can still be renewed every day. This is the beauty of God’s grace—it doesn’t fade with time or wear down with age. God’s presence is everlasting, and His promises are true.

Remember the good. Even in the toughest of times, God has not abandoned us. Psalm 27:13-14 (NLT) says: “Yet I am confident I will see the Lord’s goodness while I am here in the land of the living. Wait patiently for the Lord. Be brave and courageous. Yes, wait patiently for the Lord.” These words are beautiful, and the hope they provide are a shining light. Yes, there are moments when life feels so heavy that we can hardly move; it’s when the dreams we once held seem like distant memories, but God’s goodness still shines through, even in the midst of our pain.

And even if we don’t see the answers right away, we can trust His timing, because our God cannot fail, and His timing is perfect. Michael might not be able to climb mountains like he dreamed of for so long, but he can still climb the mountains of faith. Isaiah 40:29-31 (NLT) assures us: “He gives power to the weak and strength to the powerless. Even youths will become weak and tired, and young men will fall in exhaustion. But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.”

Michael, like all of us, needs to be reminded that God is always and forever good, even when life doesn’t match our expectations. Our faith isn’t based on the absence of struggle but on the presence of a loving God who walks with us through every valley. Don’t forget how far He has brought you. Don’t forget the way He’s blessed you, the blessings you still have, and the grace He extends to you time and time again.

In the quiet moments, when the oxygen tank hisses and the weight of life feels too heavy, remember the times when God has been faithful. Remember the prayers answered, the quiet moments of peace He has given, and the big miracles as well as the small ones. As we grow older, we may lose some things, but we can never lose the love of God. He’s good all the time, and He will never fail us. Don’t forget. ■

ife often presents us with difficult decisions that test our resolve and faith. Whether it's deciding on a career path, handling a difficult relationship, or facing unexpected challenges, as believers, these pivotal moments become opportunities to lean wholeheartedly on the Holy Spirit. God has graciously gifted us with the Holy Spirit through Jesus Christ, and he, the Spirit, dwells within us. He’s a constant presence and Source of comfort, insight, and strength. Life is challenging, there’s no doubt about it, but God never intended for us to navigate it alone or make decisions without His guidance. In every twist and turn of life's journey, we can receive direction, assurance, and clarity through the guidance of the Holy Spirit, who helps us discern and choose wisely.

It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that as adults, we should have all the answers and handle everything independently. However, this mindset can lead us away from relying on God and listening for His guidance in our lives. We might become so used to doing things our way that we forget to stay open to His voice and direction.

None of us can predict the future, but God sees the bigger picture. He knows us inside out, and He knows what is truly best for us. Regardless of our age or experience, we remain children in the eyes of our Heavenly Father. This means we will always need His loving guidance and support as we navigate life’s ups and downs. Embracing this dependence on God not only strengthens our faith but also helps us to live more fully in His purpose and plan for us.

Jesus Christ promised in John 16:13 (NLT): “When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own but will tell you what he has heard. He will tell you about the future.” It’s amazing to have the Holy Spirit living inside us! Have you ever felt that gut feeling,

like a warning that something’s not quite right? That’s the Holy Spirit doing His job—guiding and leading us. It’s such a gift to have this perfect Guide, Teacher, and Comforter within us, who knows what’s coming even before we do. The Holy Spirit not only speaks to our hearts but also blocks off paths and steps in for us when we’re in danger, shielding us from harm in ways we can’t always see.

Beyond offering guidance, the Holy Spirit empowers and protects us in profound ways. Scripture assures us that the Spirit intercedes for us in our weakness and advocates on our behalf before God. Romans 8:26-27 (NLT) tells us, “26 And the Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness. For example, we don't know what God wants us to pray for. But the Holy Spirit prays for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in words. 27 And the Father who knows all hearts knows what the Spirit is saying, for the Spirit pleads for us believers in harmony with God's own will.” This means that even when we don’t know how to pray or articulate our needs, the Holy Spirit communicates them to God with perfect understanding. The Spirit shields us from harm and guides us away from paths that could lead to destruction.

When we face danger or temptation, the Holy Spirit nudges us, guiding us to make choices that honor God and steer clear of pitfalls that could harm our spiritual well-being. This protection shows how much God loves us, always watching over us through His Spirit, so we're never on our own but always in His caring hands.

In a world filled with uncertainties and darkness, those sensitive to the Holy Spirit understand his signs and warnings as clear signs of God's guidance. In these perilous times, it is crucial to stop directing our own paths and instead rely on the precious gift of the Holy Spirit. Let's hold back from acting until He signals us to move forward.■

“God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.”

John 4:24 (NKJV)

ave you experienced the feeling of hearing someone tell you they love you, but their actions don’t back it up?

It doesn’t feel good, especially when you have shown up for this person and had their back. Love without proof feels hollow; it just doesn’t cut it. When we say we love someone but don't show it through meaningful actions, the love we’re putting out there will probably feel distant or empty, and that’s not the kind of genuine love we should be giving or receiving. The very nature of relationships is built on the exchange of love. When we know that someone’s love is not just in words, but it's something tangible and real, it feeds our soul in a deep way. We need to remember that God is the One who set all this up. He’s our Heavenly Father, and He created us to be conduits of His love. It’s only natural that He would want to receive our love as well.

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1 John 4:16 (NLT) tells us: “We have come to know and to believe the love that God has for us. God is love, and anyone who remains in love remains in God, and God remains in them.” Our Heavenly Father is love, and everything He does is driven by His great love for us all. He demonstrated His love for us by giving His only begotten Son as a sacrifice for our sins. Romans 5:8 (NLT) declares: “But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners.” Even when we were lost in darkness and separated from Him by our sin, our Heavenly Father made this incredible sacrifice for us. Now, because of what Christ accomplished on the cross, we can live powerfully through God’s love and share it with others. Our beloved Lord and Savior always did the will of God; He never strayed away from it. His life on earth is our perfect example, and following it is God's requirement for all His children. 1 Peter 2:21 (NLT) says: “For God called you to do good, even if it means suffering, just as Christ suffered for you. He is your example, and you must follow in his steps." Through Christ, our Heavenly Father has taught us to love and honor Him by being obedient to His Word, loving others, and worshiping Him in the way He deserves. As followers of Christ, our greatest desire should be to live in a way that reflects our obedience and devotion to the Father.

Obedient to God’s Word

One of the amazing ways that we prove our love for God is to obey His Word. Jesus Christ said in John 14:15,21 (NLT): “15 If you love me, obey my commandments. 21Those who accept my commandments and obey them are the ones who love me. And because they love me, my Father will love them. And I will love them and reveal myself to each of them." Obeying God’s Word demonstrates our faith in His love and power, causes us to be in harmony with His Will, and it positions us to receive blessings and rewards. Our Heavenly Father always wants the best for us, and His Word provides instructions and guidance that keep us firmly planted in His purpose.

2 Timothy 3:16 (NLT) tells us: “All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in

our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right." Some people erroneously believe that the Word of God is an ancient book that doesn’t apply to modern life. Nothing could be further from the truth. The Scriptures are alive with God’s love, power, and purpose. They are inspired by God, and every verse, every story, and every lesson in the Bible comes from His heart and wisdom. When we veer off track or struggle with what’s wrong, it corrects and leads us back to the right path. God’s Word transforms and shapes us into the people He created us to be. We are incredibly privileged to be obedient to God’s truth, and to allow it to lead us toward a life that reflects His love and righteousness. This should be our greatest pursuit in life.

Loving Others with the Heart of Christ

Loving others with the heart of Christ is such a beautiful and deep call. In John 15:12 (NLT), our beloved Savior tells us, “This is my commandment: Love each other in the same way I have loved you.” One of the things we learn about his love in God’s Word is that it’s a love that knew no boundaries. He loved those who weren’t easy to love; even his enemies. He loved when it was costly, when it meant laying down His life for us. He commands us to love people the way that he did, this means that we must go beyond a surface-level kindness, and love sacrificially, selflessly, and unconditionally.

Loving this way is not always easy to do, but it should be the trademark of every believer. It proves our identity as children of God and demonstrates our trust and love for Him. God loves us even when we’re at our worst, and we can make this same choice. Jesus calls us to love radically in Matthew 5:44 (NLT), saying, “But I say, love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you!” It’s not about choosing to love when it’s easy but about making the decision to look beyond someone’s faults, even when we don’t feel like we’ve got anything left for this person; like Christ, we should love them anyway. And that’s what should define us as believers. Every time we love like this, we’re demonstrating our faith in God, as well as our unwavering trust and love for Him.

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ing Solomon is the wisest man that ever lived, and he had a front-row seat to the wisdom of his biological father, King David, who trusted God to deliver, forgive, and guide him through life. In Proverbs 4:4-5 (NLT), Solomon reflects on the lessons his father handed down to him: “4 My father taught me, “Take my words to heart. Follow my commands, and you will live. 5 Get wisdom; develop good judgment.

Don't forget my words or turn away from them.”” These weren’t just casual words from a father to a son. David had lived through the ups and downs, the consequences of his own choices, and the faithfulness of God through it all. So when he told Solomon to get wisdom and develop good judgment, it came from experience. He knew that life only works when we stay close to God and live by His wisdom.

This verse shows that Solomon didn’t merely listen to the words of his father, but he took them to heart, internalizing them and deeply considering his dad’s instructions. Imagine being king over God’s people at such a young age! Solomon had this huge responsibility, and to lead him through it, He leaned on his father’s wisdom.

David made it clear that if Solomon listened and followed his advice, things would go well for him. As a father who had learned some things the hard way, David wanted his son to lead with a heart guided by God’s wisdom.

The bottom line is that this passage reminds us just how important it is to listen to wise counsel, especially when it comes from someone who has walked with God. It’s about keeping that wisdom front and center in our minds, letting it shape the way we move, speak, and make decisions. When we lean into God’s wisdom, our lives become fuller, richer, and lined up with His purpose for us.

Single Christian women should keep Proverbs 4:4–5 close to heart—especially those praying for a good, Godly man. Sometimes, we find ourselves waiting on external things—marriage, relationships, or status—to bring happiness. But real strength, beauty, and peace come from within. They come from internalizing the wisdom our Heavenly Father gives us through His Word.

Proverbs 4:7 (NLT) says, “Getting wisdom is the wisest thing you can do! And whatever else you do, develop good judgment.” The truth is, we all want the good results—but some of us try to bypass God’s wisdom and still expect things to work out. Life just doesn’t work that way. Wisdom and good judgment are the path to good results, especially when it comes to choosing the right person to walk with us through life.

God knows who’s best

God knows the man that is best for our lives. He’s already here, living out his life right this very moment. He needs your unique kind of special just as much as you need his, and he is destined to walk beside you in a meaningful, purpose-filled way. Although you may not know who he is or where he is, you can be assured that God does. In order for this union to take place, obedience and patience with God’s perfect timing is required.

Our Heavenly Father doesn’t allow us to control His process, and we must submit to this truth. He asks us to surrender fully—heart and mind—to His timing and plan. Trusting Him means waiting when it’s hard and letting go when we’d rather hold on. When we let go and trust His process, we find peace and fulfillment in ways we might not expect.

Mistakes of our past

Mistakes of our past don’t define our future with God, and we need to give Him glory for this marvelous grace. He doesn’t hold our past against us, but He does expect us to grow from it, using the wisdom of His Word to avoid repeating the same mistakes twice.

Internalizing God’s wisdom means more than just hearing it–it means letting it sink deep into our hearts so that it shapes the way we love, live, give, and choose. Jesus Christ gives us the blueprint in Matthew 6:33 (NLT): “Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.” Seeking God and His Kingdom above all else aligns us with His plan and purpose; it’s the only way forward. When we earnestly seek Him, we tap into His wisdom and direction, which helps us avoid unnecessary detours and walk confidently in His Will. Asking God for wisdom about our past mistakes and trusting Him to reveal the lessons will set us on a path where our lives are flowing in His Will in a beautiful synchronicity. This is where our hearts and minds must be–pleasing God in this way. We can’t afford to get pulled into society’s ever-changing ideas of what’s good, acceptable, or "normal" when it comes to relationships and marriage. That kind of thinking leads to confusion and disappointment. Instead, we have to loosen our grip on our own expectations and lean completely on God’s wisdom and guidance.

He’s the One with the plan—the One who sees the whole picture. He deserves our full trust and obedience. God is the Leader, not just in our spiritual lives, but in our relationships too. When we let Him guide us, truly trusting in His timing and direction, we align ourselves with something far greater than our own desires: we align with His purpose. That’s where we find real, lasting fulfillment—in relationships where Jesus Christ is at the center. It’s His unity and love that hold everything together in a way that’s beautiful, solid, and unshakable. As Colossians 1:17 (NLT) reminds us: "He existed before anything else, and he holds all creation together." He holds the universe in place, and He will surely hold two hearts together when we trust Him and commit to love His way. ■

Kim Times, Minister, Writer, and Editor

How Do We Prove Our Love for God—Conclusion

Praise and Worship

God has graciously granted us salvation and the perfect example of His beloved Son, Jesus Christ. He has given us the precious gift of the indwelling Holy Spirit to teach, comfort, and guide us as we grow in Christ. Additionally, He has provided the immeasurable treasure of His matchless Word. It’s clear that our Heavenly Father desires for us to know Him intimately—so deeply that we reflect His character and nature in all that we do. As we read and study His Word, the Spirit within us testifies to this truth: that God is perfect, brilliant, holy, righteous, allpowerful, all-knowing, sovereign, and full of love and mercy. He is glorious beyond comprehension, and to recognize this is to know the truth.

The question is: How can we not give Him all the glory and honor He so richly deserves? Anything or anyone that is glorious deserves glory. This is profoundly transparent. There's no one more glorious than our Heavenly Father, and it is our privilege and responsibility to praise and worship Him. It goes so much deeper than just going through the motions. Many people approach praise and wor-

ship that way, and it's not pleasing to Him. On the deepest soul level, our well of gratitude must bubble up and rise above anything that isn't worthy of God's light. Jesus tells us in John 4:24 (NLT): “For God is Spirit, so those who worship him must worship in spirit and in truth." To worship God in spirit and truth, we must recognize the truth of His phenomenal being. When we do, and we praise and worship Him with our whole hearts, we prove our love for Him.

Being obedient to His Word, loving others, and worshiping and praising Him as He deserves are wonderful ways to show our love and honor for God, but they are just the beginning. There’s no need to strain ourselves trying to figure it all out. We simply need to pray, asking God to give us a heart that truly loves Him, and then be committed to following His guidance every day. This is not a burdensome task; it’s the most rewarding journey we could ever hope to take. It’s about clinging to God with our whole hearts and living with the confidence that we are pleasing Him as we strive to love Him with all our minds, hearts, souls, and strength. ■

How to Pray When Life Gets Really Tough—Conclusion

When we’re in alignment with His thoughts, we tap into the resources of the heavenly realm, helping us to think and act in alignment with God’s Will. As we become more like Christ, we move away from the old patterns of sin and walk in the freedom He has made available to us. 2 Corinthians 3:18 speaks to this transformation, saying that we are being "changed into His glorious image" as we behold the glory of the Lord. This process is not instant, but as we continually seek God's Will, we are gradually conformed into His likeness.

When Jesus gave us this prayer, He wasn't just teaching us how to say the right things. He was guiding us into the kind of life that reflects Heaven on Earth. A forgiving heart and a renewed mind are not optional—they’re vital. They bring

peace to our relationships and clarity to our purpose. They detox the soul. They help us walk with God in wholeness, without the baggage of yesterday or the confusion of a cluttered mind.

Life gets tough sometimes, and the Lord’s Prayer provides a timeless template for how we should approach God in prayer. It helps us remember who He is, seek His will, ask for provision, examine our hearts, forgive others, and seek renewal. Through this prayer, Jesus shows us how to center our hearts on God’s greatness and trust in His ability to sustain us, even when life feels impossible. So, no matter what you’re facing, follow the example of the Savior and trust that He hears your prayers. ■

A Prayer for the Heart That Waits

Dear Heavenly Father,

I come before You in awe of who You are—my Sovereign King, my Righteous Judge, my Loving Father. You are holy, holy, holy. There is none like You. You are the Author of love and the Keeper of promises. You sit high, yet You draw close to me. Thank You for being everything I need, for being faithful even when I wrestle with doubt. I bless Your Holy Name, Lord—not just for what You do, but for who You are. All glory, honor, and power belong to You forever. Father, I ask for Your forgiveness. Forgive me for every time I stepped outside of Your Will—for the times I gave away pieces of myself that were meant to be protected. Forgive me for sexual sin. Wash me clean from the shame of past relationships and every moment I chose compromise over obedience. I also lay down the bitterness, the hidden resentment, and the fear I’ve carried. Forgive me for questioning Your timing and doubting Your love for me. Heal the broken places, Lord. You promised in Isaiah 1:18, “Though your sins are like scarlet, I will make them as white as snow.” Let that truth be real in me today.

Thank You, Lord, for all the ways You’ve blessed me—seen and unseen. Thank You for grace that covers me, for strength that carries me, and for purpose that still stands, even when my heart aches. Thank You for teaching me, growing me, and never letting me settle beneath what You’ve spoken over my life. I see Your hand in everything, and I’m grateful. Truly.

And now, with a surrendered heart, I bring my request to You. Father, if it be Your Will, let this be the season where I meet the man You’ve prepared for me—the one who will love You first, and love me well. Let him be rooted in truth, led by the Spirit, and secure in his purpose. I trust Your timing, but I also ask boldly, believing You delight in giving good gifts to Your children. Your Word in Ruth 2:12 says, “May the Lord, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge, reward you fully for what you have done.” I receive that promise with hope, as I continue to seek You, Your Kingdom, and Your righteousness above all else.

In the powerful name of Jesus Christ, I pray. Amen.

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