**This week’s prize winner is Cheryl Downing. Thanks to everyone for submitting such great comments!**
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To say that my relationship with God has changed a little over the years would be a gross understatement.
God has walked with me through a lot of hard stuff and carried me when I wanted to quit my calling. We’ve faced …
Ups and downs.
Victories and challenges.
Unexpected surprises and squashed dreams.
And every time I’ve felt beaten down and frustrated by another disappoint this world dished out, I’ve become more determined to work out my issues honestly and openly with God.
Sure, He already knows every single detail of my life. But there’s something beautiful about laying down my burdens at Jesus’ feet and knowing He’ll take time to acknowledge each one of them.
My transparency is met with His ability and in that sacred place He fills me up again, assures me of His love and reminds me that He’s not going anywhere.
I don’t have to wrestle with life alone. I don’t have to pretend I’m something I’m not. He knows my frailties and weaknesses, yet He still loves me.
I used to come to God with an agenda and long list of requests. I’d read through a few random Bible verses and skip around from the Old Testament to New, never feeling settled because I was too distracted by the day’s assignments waiting for me.
Now, I just love starting my day in God’s presence and lingering longer because I find so much joy being with Him. He’s taught me to read the Scriptures and look for His fingerprints all throughout it.
I’m amazed at how many times I’ve read a familiar passage and then one day discovered a new truth tucked inside those same words that I never noticed before.
God has opened my eyes and brought clarity to my mind in understanding more than I ever dreamed possible. He’s changing me from the inside out and I’m no longer content with sprinkling a few Bible verses here and there, when I can soak in them throughout the day instead.
Sure, I still have a long way to go, but I’m not so much in a hurry anymore. I’m happy just taking one day at time with the LORD, knowing He will continue to fill in the blanks to my questions and puddy in all the gaps.
His truths bring so much life and light to my days.
My old agenda has faded as His agenda has moved front and center. I simply want to please God and follow His lead.
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Today I have a devotion running on the Proverbs 31 Ministries website. In it I share a beautiful truth I discovered in Scripture about a woman named Lydia. You can read it by clicking HERE.
I’m also giving away a copy of Suzie Eller’s latest book, Come With Me – Discovering the Beauty of Following Where He Leads.
I’ve known Suzie Eller for years and she truly lives out this message of following where Jesus leads in such beautiful ways.
Leave a comment below and you’ll automatically be entered in the drawing for this amazing book!
Deb says
At times, the path He leads us on is steep and stony, other times, it’s beside still waters but…any path He leads us on is for our good and His glory; when I can’t see the way or understand, my heart still knows it’s best because it has come from His hand. Would love a copy of the book!
hala says
thanks for the book .I want to join this amazing journey .
mj johnson says
This is a timely book for me…and for others I know.
Thank you for your words and the opportunity.
Beth O'Keefe says
I’m finding myself where you are these days, Leah – so much has changed even in this last year, but it still feels new … I would be greatly encouraged by such a book as this.
Tamsie says
This book sounds very timely for our family. We are trusting where God is leading us!
Angela says
I, too, want to follow Jesus and learn to better let go of the world. Thank you, Leah, for offing this book. I will pray for whoever recieves it to know Him better.
Suzanne says
I have been following (& being blessed by) P31 Ministries for years! (Maybe 10) God is leading my husband & I in a new direction, and while it is a bit scary at times, it is a privilege to follow Him on this journey!
Kathy Scott says
Taking time to be alone with the Lord, to read His Word of love, and to pray to Him as my Abba Father, makes my day begin on a positive note with peace and joy in my heart. I felt you captured the essence of walking in the Spirit and being in the presence of the Lord by dwelling on the Word and His person. I would enjoy reading the book you are offering to further my walk with the Lord.
Allison says
I am struggling with what I believe is the calling on my life. God is definitely putting me through a cleansing process and has removed my “props” so that I learn to lean on Him alone. I would love to receive a copy of this book as I think it would strengthen me and my walk with God. Thank you
Marie B says
Yes, I want to be like Lydia learning more and more about Jesus everyday and spending time in His presence.
Kari says
I would love to win this book
Toni says
My quiet time has a come a,long way but I still desire to go deeper.
Kara says
Would like this book to share ❤️
Rebecca T. says
Isn’t it wonderful how God puts His daughters together in a blog post? It is so encouraging to know I am not alone in my struggle to spend more time with Him in my busy days. Thank you for a chance to win this book. I know it is something I need to read and pass on to a struggling friend.
Brie says
Thank you so much for your devotional on Proverbs31. It was exactly what I needed to hears and sent time by a sweet sister after we had a similar conversation the night before. His perfect timing!
Nancy M in NJ says
I’m busy with all kind of “things”… but a goal this weekend is to figure out a time to sit with God for a bit, as I’d like to start reading the bible daily. Thank you for your post, and chance to win the book.
Jenzen says
I would love a copy of this book!
Michelle Reed says
What a blessing you are to all of us as you share your thoughts with us who are trying to dig deeper.
Jessica says
I am thankful that I found your blog through Proverbs31 today!! 🙂 I feel so much like Lydia right now and even relate to what you mentioned in your blog re reading a few scriptures here and there but not really setting aside time for God. I am in my journey and I know God is speaking to me through these two readings today.
Thank you so much for following His lead– you have encouraged me.
Dana says
I loved the Proverbs 31 devotion today and am glad I came to read this blog. I feel like I have been like Lydia in the past year. I have had a very difficult year, and I’ve opened myself up more to Him, and I am learning to be open and honest with God about my struggles. Thank you for such encouraging words!
Judi Snyder says
I enjoyed reading your post. Sounds like the book would be very encouraging.
Sheri Waddell says
I would love a copy of this book!
Nell Casper says
Going through some deep trials right now and your devotion spoke volumes to my heart. I need to spend more quiet time and open my heart to His words. They are full of love and wisdom for every situation. Would be so happy to delve into this book to see what God has for me there!
Rena says
Loved your post…You are a gift to the believers.
Michelle O'Connor says
Thanks for such a great devotion today at Proverbs 31! Your love and excitement for deepening your personal relationship with Jesus is evident!And motivating! I follow Suzie on her blog, and would love to have a copy of her book!
Valerie says
Enjoyed the encouragement to spend that quiet time each morning. I’ve been rushing through it lately. A lot of trails going on. I would enjoy a new book to read!
Pamela Burke says
I would love to win a copy of the book you’re giving away! Thank you for sharing your story! God bless you!
Ashley K says
I’m so grateful for changed relationships in our Father! He has taken my life from dull to vibrant and I can’t see where He leads me next.
kelley igo says
Enjoyed post!
kelley igo says
Enjoyed today’s post! Would love a copy of the book.
Paula says
Sounds so wonderful & peaceful
Iam so grateful you reminded me of how much he loves us even though we are but dust, he loves us so
Thank you for that
Ellen Hunt says
I enjoy your blog!
Jamie says
Really enjoyed reading this post. 🙂
Martha T. says
This was a good post! I would like to win the book.
TallulahJane says
Great blog post. Really delving into scripture has been a life and mind saver to me. Thanks for sharing
Larissa says
Thank you for sharing! Going to read Acts 16!
Paula Parker says
Thank you for reminding me today that my time with God is precious and should not be an quick prayer right before bed asking for all that I need. He deserves MY attention. We are so blessed to have Lord that is willing to listen to every little thing we have to say!
Ann says
Thank you I love my morning quiet time, but want to pray those prayers to understand & hear God!!
Betty says
Thank you for the encouragement today.
Lisa says
Great! Thank you for your incite.
Vicky says
Hi I am new to your page and would love to see where the journey with you takes me. Trying to surround myself with like minded people to grow in Christ love . Good luck everyone!
Alisha Hanson says
I get so busy sometimes I forget to make time for myself and God. I so love those times I make a priority. Also I find myself getting caught up in sayings, devotionals, and what not. Even though I don’t think those are bad, sometimes they replace my Bible reading and that’s not right. Thank you for this remind. God bless you all!
Sandy says
It is amazing how God works in every single one of our lifes. I have been exactly in this situation. I would skim through the Bible or use a workbook. But I sometimes had a hard time understanding yet a big desire to indulge in his word. I was questioning my faith. Thank you for sharing this today.
I will continue to follow the urge to read his words. I know now that it will strenghten my faith. May the Lord bless you and shine his face upon you.
Sandra says
Awesome blog, words articulated for where I’m at right now. Would love to read Come with Me, to help me in the season that I’m in. xo
Crystal Storms says
I love finding new truths in familiar Scriptures. But what a beautiful prayer to pray when understanding doesn’t come so easily. Thank you, Leah, for your words and this opportunity. : )
Renee says
thank you for sharing your kind words! I will read Acts 16.!
Rebecca says
I also wake up early to spend time with the Lord. No amount of sleep could ever take the place of his presence and love. The first thing I start out with is my 1st Five devotional. This has been so valuable and has really helped me deal with real everyday life issues. Thank you for all you do.
Ellen Cole says
I love the practice of arising early to spend quiet time in the Word…It’s a habit worth starting.
Renee says
After losing my husband, soul mate and best friend to cancer, I was angry at God and at the world. I left God, he never left me, but He kept calling me back, calling me into His word. I’ve ask God to forgive me for being angry at Him, and He loves me like the child that I am – this I know. But, the greatest gift I have received through the process has been my time with God every morning – our relationship has grown and strengthened. I am truly blessed. I may not have the answer that I thought that I needed, but now, it does not really matter. I know that my God has me tightly in the palm of his hand. Every day, I enjoy our time together, and every day, I get something new from the word of God. Thanks for your encouragement and for reminding me of how special my morning time is with my Father in Heaven!
Courtney says
I would love to win a copy of this book! I am trying to make my faith stronger & I’m sure it would be a great help! Thank you for your devotional!
Christianne McCall says
I’m definitely taking it each day with the Lord. I too have to read and reread the Bible and sometimes still have questions!
Brenda Snyder says
Love the article and your comment about wanting His agenda not mine!
Amy says
I have really been asking God lately to show me how to know Him better, more deeply, and to know how to seek Him in the way He wants me to.
Cammi Hevener says
I was just thinking on my morning walk this AM how I need to get back to a quiet time and open my Bible more! Thank you for sharing ..
Amanda McDaniel says
I feel God calling me to go but I’m struggling with the details: how God? I’m still sick and can’t do much. Where God? Who God? What am I to do, to say? I would love a copy of this book to help lead me in the right direction. Thank you for your blog and encouraging words!
Tami says
Thank you for sharing your heart and wisdom. I gain insight each day reading the Proverbs 31 devotional a! It has been such a blessing. I would love a copy of Suzie’s book!
Olivia says
I am at a point in my life right now that I need to do more slowing down and being still to hear His voice. Thank you for this wonderful reminder today!!!!
Marsha Kendall says
I am daily trying to keep my heart, mind, body and soul connected to our Lord and Savoir Jesus for direction every day, moment by moment, especially in the small things that I think I can handle myself. Learning to let it all go and have God direct me is a challenge in my task and goal oriented self. Maybe Suzie’s book will give me more insights. My life verse is Proverbs 3: 5,6,7. Trust in the Lord…
Blessings & Peace
Marsha
Connie says
I enjoy your posts from Proverbs 31 and First 5, because you seem to speak and write from the place of having spent time with Jesus. And it was so nice to hear your words today, I needed a refresher for my morning time. I would love to read this book!
Fran Holler says
Thank you for sharing your thoughts today. You encouraged me to read the Bible more and not spend all my time reading devotions. I treasure that early morning time with the Lord as well.
Jessica McCoy says
I find myself slipping from reading my devotionals and reading my bible because I never set aside a specific time to be in the presence of God. I try to squeeze Him in between lifes craziness and it obviously does not work! Thank you for the reminder that He needs to be first in my life!! Visiting from the P31 devotional. 🙂
Lindy says
Thank you for today’s Proverbs 31 devotion. I struggle with spending time with God and my bible. I think he was sending me a message today through your devotion.
De says
Thank you for sharing your heart. I needed to hear this.
Leighton says
Thank you so much for your blog posts. I came here from the Proverbs 31 Devotional today and have been reading through the rest of your wonderful blog. God has been using this dark time in my life to draw me closer to Him, and I am so grateful.
Carol says
Thank you for sharing and helping others to see the hope in this journey that we are traveling.
Janet says
I am working on taking my quiet time. I have the First 5 app on my phone, and read that first thing when I get up. I just feel like I don’t have a lot of time to spend quietly because I have to rush to get ready to get out the door for work. I also try to take time at night before I go to bed. I am working on it.
Karla says
Her books are so relatable and honest. I’d love to win her new book since I don’t have it.
Laura says
Slowly but surely I’m making my mornings matter by reading a devotional and trying my best to pray. It’s such a precious time that I’m learning to take advantage of.
Janice says
I love my quiet time in the morning with the Lord. My first cup of coffee is always with him. You did challenge me to read the Bible more instead of devotionals. Thank you for your encouraging words.
Eunice says
I’m in love with my devotional time with Him. I too am changing in my walk with Him. Thank you for sharing with such sincerity.
Amanda says
Quiet times with God always settle the storm. Recently I have been in parenting storm. At work one day I was given the task of making a list of inspiring Bible verses. What a help to my spirit that day! No matter how much the other school parents or church members can make me feel rejected, God has still chosen YOU!
Cheryl says
Leah, I just finished reading your devo on Proverbs 31 sight. Oh how it spoke to my heart! Thank you for sharing with us how God can open our eyes for His Word – to show us more of Himself & give us a desire to know Him & His Word better. We are going through a very rough time right now. But I know God is with us in this storm. He sees, He hears, He has our best & His kingdom purposes in mind. Your words were refreshing! Thank you! ❤️
Kelley says
This post was so perfect! I needed to hear this. Our lives are so bombarded from outside distractions and we get into a routine of reading through a passage. Open our hearts so we can capture even more of the word and what is God telling us.
Linda says
Thanks for your encouragement! I have slipped away from my quiet times with God . Reading your post this morning has reminded me how much I need and miss that closeness with Him. Again your words touched my heart. Thank you.
Carlie says
Hi Leah, thank you so much for sharing your heart. I feel that I am on the same path, maybe moreso at the beginning, of pursuing something more with Jesus. I’ve grown up following Him, yet have never mastered setting aside a specific time to rest in Him through lrayer amd reading the Word. It has always been part of my busy life, but at random times and intermittently throughout the week. It has been about two weeks now of settling into my new cozy chair, and God has been so gentle and good to me as I fumble through forming this habit. So thank you for your encouragement today, both here and in your Proverbs 31 devo. Blessings to you!
Terri B says
When I make spending time with God a priority, I can see and feel my faith stretch and grow. So why do I allow the devil to steal some of those times away? Just more evidence of the necissity to make it a priority.
Rebecca L. says
Thanks for sharing this message that i could have easily overlooked. This means a lot and will pay closer attention to God’s word.
Sonya says
Good morning,
Your devotional on Lydia -my grandmother’s name by the way :-), prompted me to also read your blog. Both of these landed firmly on my heart and have given great encouragement. Thank you for listening to,and then penning God’s thoughts on your heart.
Jenny says
Thank you for sharing. I am just starting a morning routine reading God’s word with a cup of coffee. It has been so awesome to start my day reading the Bible and in prayer. Your blog and devotion were an encouragement to me today. May the Lord bless you!
Stephanie Q. says
Thank you for this opportunity. I want to follow where he leads and learn to rest at His feet.
Leigh F says
I struggle with finding time to read more than a few verses. I start my work day at 4:30 in the morning. Get home at 5:30 and then have all the family things to handle. I am exhausted and numb to life at this point. Your post challenges me but at the same time, I don’t know when I can find the time to really sit with the Lord.
Carlie says
I get it, Leigh! I just recently moved away from a job where I had to be up and about at 430am as well. My advice is to ask the Lord to show you when you can make time – there are seasons for everything and maybe quiet mornings arent the right thing for you at this time. But God knows and He always opens the door when you knock. Dont feel condemned or discouraged! Be encouraged as you walk your own journey and figure things out that Gid has for YOU. You rock girl – just keep trusting Him.
Leah says
Leigh, it sounds like you have a very busy schedule. Why not try listening to Scripture while you’re driving to work in the mornings – or driving home in the afternoons? Some of my sweetest times with God have been in my car when I’m alone with Him. Audio Bible versions are easily accessible and free. I love listening to Scripture or worship music while I’m driving. It’s like turning my car into a little sanctuary. 🙂
Janice Millikan says
Your message today really hit home. If was praying/meditating last night about journaling ways to pray. If I write these down I can go back and reread and make them a daily habit. If journaled some of your suggestions and I love the story of Lydia having prayer by the water.
Shanda says
Thank you for the wisdom and encouragement you shared today. I love how God is working in your heart and life,
My old agenda has faded as His agenda has moved front and center. I simply want to please God and follow His lead.
I hope that will be my heart’s cry as I draw closer to God and stop trying to manipulate what I want. May the Spirit open my eyes to see and hear all that God is doing in my life.
Mary Hudson says
Very encouraging… Savoring every bit of God’s Word. O taste and see that He is good. Thank you for sharing.
Keri Jones says
Thank you for the opportunity to read this book!
Leiani Watson says
I am in 100% agreement!!!! Gods Word brings with it so much more then we give it credit.
Dee says
Oh how I long to be more present with the Lord in the morning. I do it every day, but it is so early. I feel like I am not connecting with Him, or giving Him my best. My takeaway is that I need to get back directly into the word. While devotional’s like this help me, I am reminded real connection has happened for me while I read and interact with God as I read my Bible. Thank you for sharing- Dee
Melissa says
Thank you for sharing your journey, I too have found an incredible amount of peace in my morning times with God and hope I continue to change in His Presence
Elaine Segstro says
Thank you for sharing about your time with the Lord. How beautiful! I need to establish a routine of Bible reading and prayer.
Kristin Romo says
I really appreciate this. I have been going through what seems like a lot of struggles lately. Feeling down and I have been trying to remember to pray every time I feel alone or upset or confused and lost. Your perspective on it is so great. I’m truly thankful for you and the women of proverbs31. All of your insight has really been helping learn new things to strengthen my relationship with God.
Sharon says
So much truth to how spending time with Jesus can revitalize you, bringing joy, clarity, gratitude, and a deeper desire to cultivate a more personal relationship with our Lord and Savior.
Thanks for continuing to challenge us and for reminding us to savor time spent with God.
Heather says
I am beginning to feel that same way about GOD. GOD has been walking with me through some very hard things. Now GOD is helping me through a season of recovery from some poor choices. I know HE is with me and will walk with me in this season too.
Regina says
God has been speaking to me this year, although I haven’t liked what He’s been telling me. I have been grudgingly obeying, which as a mom, I know is not really obeying. I know I need an attitude shift. I also know God will honor my efforts. Thank you for sharing how your desire developed.
Kathy says
Thx for sharing about your time with the Lord, daily….these words are such inspiration….food for thought as to spending morning devotions.
Mary says
I have always had a strong Christian faith, but I am changing my engagement with the Lord day by day. I want to put him first and to learn how to love him and listen to him in the fullest way possible. Thank you for your inspiration.
Sallie says
Thank you for sharing your life with me and all if us. What a blessing to receive insight from others on their ways of walking and living in the Lord.
Becky Aspinwall says
Thank you for this message. I am not a morning person at all. It is so hard for me to drag out of bed every morning and get ready for work. The Lord has been convicting me to get up earlier and spend time with him. I so want to and I tell myself at night that I’m going to do it and then when morning rolls around I don’t. Your message today really spoke to me. I am praying that the Lord will give me strength and desire enough to overcome Satan’s pull to keep me in bed longer. I know I will be blessed if I can just overcome.
KariB says
❤️❤️❤️ I love starting my day with my Jesus, coffee and soaking in His Words. Every day is an exciting, expectation of what He is going to reveal to me! Love the story of Lydia and just got done reading it. Yes Lord unveil my eyes to Your hidden treasures!
Linda Moody says
What a great inspiration!!!
Jessica says
I am trying hard to put God first in my life and soaking up in his word.
Carmen Alice Ferrer says
Thank you. God has been reminding me lately to slow down. To spend more time with him and just him. Thank you for your words and the reminder that when we start our day with him he fills us up with so much more than what the world is offering!!
Kittie Mayfield says
You and all the writers are such an inspiration to me every day! Thank you so much, and may God continue to bless your ministry.
Emily Barton says
Thank you for this. I have found that the status of my relationship with Jesus is changing as well. I am learning to soak up His word in order to become a “well watered woman” (a quote from Gretchen Saffles @ Life Lived Beautifully) and to fall even more deeply in love with my Savior. Thank you for the opportunity of a chance at a new book.
Kristin says
I am so grateful for the words of so many godly, Christian women acting as the lamp at my feet as I walk my path towards Jesus. Thank you!
Sheri V says
Thank you for sharing how God has transient your quiet time together. I have been feeling a shift in my quiet time from giving God my list to just being in His presence.
Bless you.
Sheri V says
*transitioned*
Linda says
I too am trying to slow down and listen for God’s voice! I would enjoy reading the book.
Jessica says
This is a beautifully written devotion! It definitely makes me want to read this book. It has also set a new desire within me to protect my quiet time with the Lord. Thank you for sharing and being transparent.
Brandy says
I am very excited for this book. I am to wake with God on my mind each day and find ways he is guiding my path in life.
Shyla says
Perfect words for the season I am currently in. ❤ I have spent many days with agendas and requests. I have struggled many days not having the desire or strength to keep reading, following But…. I do and He is always there. Each day giving me just enough.
Kristen says
Thank you! In many ways my life has been turned upside down and drawn to a halt. I have been focusing on slowing down, asking God to open my mind and heart to the fullness of his word. In the last week, God has given me an unexpected gift in the midst of the challenges I am facing. The gift is wonderful but also can easily distract me. Both your blog and devotion is a wonderful reminder to me to stay focused and continually pray that God would open my mind and heart to what he wants me to hear.
Diann says
I have felt at a loss recently. Lonely and sad. I needed the reminder of taking time to feel truly loved by God. Thank you:)
Lisa Champion says
I want to spend more time with God, I’ve always felt inadequate in what I say and how I do it. Like with anything, I need to take a leap of faith and just do it.
melissa says
God has def used this devotion to confirm His desire for me to get up early and seek Him. Thank you!!!
Anita Dickson says
As I read your message this morning I was sitting in my chair, drinking coffee and covered with my comfy blanket. I knew right then this message was written for me! Thank you! I’m looking forward to reading this book!
Elsie says
Thank you for both devotions. They both hit home and help. They give a lot of reassurance that God is our constant companion which I just wrote to a friend before I read your devotion which I forwarded to her. may the Lord bless and keep you and your family in His loving care
Liz Feldman says
This is the desire of my heart, too — that my time with the Lord would be rich and rewarding, not just something to check off my list. Thank you for sharing.
AP says
Thank you, lately I have felt the calling to come closer to God & his Word; living in a dynamic relationship rather than the “going-through-the-motions” state I’ve been in for too long. Your words have sparked excitement for the adventures God has planned for me through my obedience.
kathy w says
I really enjoyed hearing how God has helped slow you down to really hear his Word. I pray that he will do the same for me.
Luane Thomson says
“I’ve become more determined to work out my issues honestly and openly before God.” A significant key in the journey of knowing and following the footsteps of the Master.
Barb says
For a while my passion for walking with Jesus was “low”, letting the weight of the world, extended family trials , church hurt, and more affect me. I’m in church leadership so this also weighed heavy on my mind and of course all around produced guilt and confusion. I am being renewed and have the desire to have the time alone with The Lord again daily in the mornings. Than you for your blog. I’m encouraged and motivated….praise God.
Elisa says
Holy Spirit guided me today…. Big time! He brought me here and I slowed down. Thank you… You helped open my eyes in realizing He is calling me… I just have to slow down and listen. Thanks!
Marcia says
Today’s gift is finding your blog.
Mandi says
Needed to hear this today as I have fallen away from my habit of spending time early in the morning with Jesus. Thank-you. God bless!
Davita says
Thank you for sharing your approach to spending time with our Father. It reminds me to take time to commune with him and his word.
Carrie says
The Lord knew I needed this today…thank you
Jen E. says
I often feel like I am being knocked down in life. First it was mental health issues, which I was able to regain somewhat of a stable footing, and then I got knocked down again with migraine headaches that lead to widespread body pain. Sometimes I wonder what will hit me next. But I trust that God is using my circumstances and my life for a His great purpose and have to trust Him to hold me up when I feel like I’m drowning.
Carole Peters says
Thank you for sharing from the heart. Your words resonate with me. You have a gift please keep writing. ❤️
Susan says
Thank you for sharing. I needed these words today.
Jane Riley says
Thank you for the reminder that God is with us in every season of our life….the joys and the tough, tough times. He has told is in his word that he is “near to the brokenhearted and comforts those who are crushed in spirit”.
Debbie Houston says
This would be a wonderful gift for new teachers who may be wondering if this is truly what they want to do for the next 30 years! If they could see themselves in a mission for God, their choice to teach would make so much more sense!
Phaedra Alwell says
Thank you for this sweetly written devotional. It resonated with me so deeply and renewed my commitment to spending time with Him first.
Cheryl says
I needed to read this today. I am starting a new school year with many new little faces and I need my focus to be on letting Jesus shine through me! I need my time with Jesus to keep things in perspective. Thank you!
Hattie says
It is refreshing to sit and soak in what the Lord is revealing during my times with Him. He has been with me from the beginning and is not done with me yet.. Psalms 118:17.. I shall not die but live and declare the works of the Lord.. Blessings and rest to all during whatever season you are in..
Sarah says
Starting your day in God’s word is the best way to focus and center your day. I need to start this again. Thank you sharing your struggles and joys.
Brianne says
Following the path laid out by my Lord is more rewarding than anything this fallen world had to offer.
Lynnell Idigpio says
I have JUST in the past few months finally started to get up in the predawn hours to have time with Jesus and the Bible, and felt like this post and the Prov 31 devo ARE my heart. Thanks for sharing.
Tara says
Thank you for sharing your heart!
kari jasus says
i sit here, a rare moment for sure, alone with coffee in hand. everyone else is asleep. like you wrote, it’s just me and jesus and i don’t have to share him with anyone just yet right now. these moments don’t come often, and i need to learn to crave them more and more. to crave jesus more and more. thanks for your words today.
Sheila says
My early morning devotion centers me for the day ahead. It’s no longer a chore to rise so early, it’s a joy.
Danielle Rush says
Thank you so much for your encouraging faithfulness. Exactly what I needed to get back in Gods word & to spend that much needed time with Him! 😘
Bruna Reinholz says
I enjoyed reading your devotional today. My heart desire if to know Christ more and more. To
Patty Lang says
Your devotion spoke to me right where I am today. Thank you for renewing a hunger for the scriptures in me.
Lynda says
Thank you for this devotion!
Suzanne R. says
I was truly blessed by your words today. 🙂
Betty says
I needed this devotion. I need Him. I need help
Mary says
I long to have a closer relationship with God. Your example encourages me and shows me what living in faith can truly look like in my life. Thank you for sharing your life with me and encouraging me through sharing.
Barb says
Thank you! My heart longs to be with God & the direction He has for me❤️
arlene says
More time with God is my goal.
Betsy says
I want to follow where He leads!
Glynnis says
Like you, I read familiar passages of scripture and find a new meaning in them almost every time.
I also have a long way to go, but as long as I follow Jesus, I’ll get there right on time.
Diane says
If I start my day holding Jesus’ hand I am at peace and can surrender to His will and let Him lead me so I can abandon all my anxiety which is crippling. Turn it over to Jesus and remember His Mother’s example of handling sorrow and grief. Jesus, I surrender all to You; You take care of it.
Terri says
Leah, your message today reached me in a place where God has been directing me. Thank you for the push to spend quality time with Him!
Susan says
Thank you, I start my day with coffee, my bible and proverbs 31.
June says
Thank you for allowing the Lord to use you to help others. I desire to be closer to God and your messages help me achieve that.
Linda C says
I also love to spend my ” First 5″ with the Lord. It has changed my days and although I still need to work on focu to avoid those distractions of the daily assignments ahead, I do find myself better equipped to face the day when I make the time to spend with Jesus first. Already reading “Come With Me” but would love to win a copy to give to a friend. Thank you!
naarah crouch says
I needed to read this. Its soon hard for me to get up early but that my goal. Its 5am and the last thing I want to do is get uo even though I can’t sleep. God is working on me.
Cheryl says
I couldn’t sleep so I got up to read and the story about Lydia you shared is what I read. Thank you for the way you shared your excitement about getting up early to spend time with the Lord. It has challenged me.