Devotional: All Of My Devotionals List

Today, there isn't a new devotional to read, but there is a list of devotionals I put together for you. I went through and added all the devotionals I've written for this blog into a really orderly list. You can read any that you choose! Next week there will be a new devotional - I haven't stopped writing them, so you can expect that on Tuesday. Thanks! Happy reading!!

Devotional: Grow Where You're Planted
Devotional: Don't Be Someone Else
Devotional: Beeee Happy
Devotional: You Have An Enemy
Devotional: Laugh At Fear
Devotional: Keep Showing Compassion
Devotional: Receiving His Grace
Devotional: God Is Protecting Us
Devotional: You Are Unique
Devotional: Learning To Be Content
Devotional: Let's Give Thanks
Devotional: Every Season Has A Reason
Devotional: Seek Out His Peace
Devotional: Christ Is Within Us
Devotional: When The Holy Spirit Speaks
Devotional: God Is With You
Devotional: We Will Continue To Grow
Devotional: Love Your Enemies
Devotional: Spring Brings Hope
Devotional: Waiting Patiently
Devotional: Seeing Flowers Fade
Devotional: God's Ways Are Higher
Devotional: His Abundant Blessings
Devotional: Care For Your Animals
Devotional: The Power of Prayer
Devotional: Avoiding Sin

The devotionals begin from the oldest to the newest. The newest being "Avoiding Sin." This even got me thinking that I should write a book that includes all these devotionals in them, and the ones to come! Today, I hope this list encouraged you in some way! I also pray for lots of love in your life. 💙 *What subject should I write about next in my devotional?

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Devotional: Avoiding Sin

Avoiding sin. It's what we all have to do. I've found myself trying to avoid it. Recently, I came to the realization that I needed to change. That doesn't mean I don't feel guilty when I sin, I do. It eats me up inside. But I sin again. Do the same thing, feel guilty. It came to the point where I was done. With God's help, I was going to change. I didn't like feeling controlled by whatever sin I was encountering. It made me feel awful, and I hated it. I knew that any sin that came into my life, had to be avoided. But I couldn't do it alone.

With God by my side, I've made some massive decisions. I was determined that I wasn't going to give into whatever temptation this world had to offer. It didn't matter what it was, even if it was small, I've tried to cut back. I've made some good decisions recently, too, which I've been so proud of. I know that God forgives us of our sins, and I love Him. I don't want to hurt Him, so I'm trying to be better. I know that I can be, so I'm not going to give up. I'm going to fight any temptation that comes my way. And I know I can do it.

Like the verse says, I'm going to watch my heart. I have to protect it from myself, the world, and the enemy. Because I want good things to flow from my heart. I want to be able to reach people. I don't want to show them bad ways and bad thoughts. I should be careful how I live. People are watching. Ultimately, I want to give some encouragement and hope to those that are also struggling with sin. It can happen. You can break those chains. But only with God's help. I certainly can't do it without Him. He's always there for me.

Like me, if you want to avoid sin, I would pray and read your Bible. Memorize scripture that'll help with the temptations you're facing in life. You can stop. You can be better. I've recently given up on some of my own problems and life has been easier. It's also freeing. There's nothing like it. Now, this doesn't mean, of course, that we'll never sin again. But we can fight back. We can do something. You can avoid sin. It's possible. Just stay close to God, and don't give up. Lastly, watch your heart. I know you and I can do it.

"Watch over your heart with all diligence, for from it flow the springs of life." - Proverbs 4:23 NASB

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Devotional: The Power of Prayer

Prayer is more powerful than we think. In the spiritual realm, it's how we communicate with God. And not only is it essential for connection, but also for our closeness to the Heavenly Father. I see it as talking with someone I love, but with true reverence. We often, ourselves, see it as a way to ask God something. There is nothing wrong with asking, but I believe it has to be more than that. I like to talk to God, but I don't always listen. I try, but my mind is always going. I'm practicing to still my thoughts and my heart for His voice.

When I was a young girl, I prayed often. I prayed every night. God answered a few of my prayers. I had wanted a horse, so I prayed for a black one. A friend of ours that had horses asked me and my parents if I wanted a free horse. And he was black! I couldn't believe it. It was truly a gift. Another prayer was answered when I was much younger. An outside cat of ours went missing one day. I prayed for that cat often to come back, and he did two years later. These prayers being answered strengthened my faith. I would pray little prayers for something that I had lost, I would find it and thank Him. I thanked Him for everything.

Because I've seen the power of prayer, I believe God can create a gift or a miracle in anyone's life. He also answers a lot of our smaller prayers, as well. If we're full of humility, patience, and love, He can do anything. Prayer is powerful. Don't underestimate what God can do through your prayers. I remember praying for a dear friend and relative of mine to become a Christian. I prayed each night. My Mom purchased a Bible for her. I gave it to my friend. She was elated! I found out later that she had given her heart to Christ. God can answer any prayer with a yes. Now, sometimes He doesn't. It's hard to accept that.

I've seen some prayers not answered with a yes, and it's been heartbreaking. I had to give up some dreams. But I understood. God knew better. I know He always does. I just have to trust Him. But that doesn't mean I should give up praying. Keep praying. You never know what'll happen. For myself, talking to God has been one of my favorite things in this life. And I'm so thankful that He gave us a way to connect our spirits with Him. Remember, our prayers are a special gift. A gift that can bless us and others. God can answer any prayer, too. Don't ever think your prayer is unimportant or too big. Just keep praying. 💓

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Devotional: Spring Brings Hope

Spring officially starts tomorrow. I've been looking forward to it, and I'm sure that many others have, too. Out of all of the seasons, though, spring seems to be special. There's just something about it. I think it's because of the symbolism behind it. It's a season of rebirth, birth, and hope. It's also when everything comes alive. The flowers bloom, which is one of my favorite parts. Because of that, spring is my second-loved season. I love walking outside with my camera to take pictures of the birds, flowers, and yes, even bugs. This season itself awakens something inside me. I can't quite explain it, but it's wonderful.

Hope. It's what spring brings with it. A new beginning. Whenever this season enters my life, I get excited. I start planning, organizing, and preparing for the future. I look forward with anticipation of what God has waiting for me. Sure. Hard things can still happen, but I want to water the garden that's also within me. I guess that's what I'm trying to explain about how I feel with spring. Not only are there flowers blooming outside, but within my heart, as well. That garden is a lovely feeling all-together, and I know that God is preparing my heart for what's ahead. I can then tend to my growing garden within, too.

I know right now a lot of people need hope. I remember going through some of the toughest days without it myself, and it didn't matter to me if it was spring or not. I wish that I would've held onto hope, even if it felt like there was none. It may not have changed my situation, but maybe it would've helped me more in some way. The first time I went through hardship, I was devoid of hope. I couldn't believe things could get better. They did. But a second time came around, and once again, no hope. I'm in a better place now, but I still struggle. And maybe, things will get hard again. But I'll have hope this time.

If you're struggling, I pray that you find hope in your life. Even if it's in the small things. Even if you have to take one day at a time. Spring is coming, even so, an eternal spring someday. I hold onto both. And the hope of God. I know that I can still cling to His hope. I'm not giving it up. If you ever need hope yourself, read scripture, you'll find it there. It's also in the small, everyday things of life. Looking at the sky or at a flower, reminds me of hope. It's there. I promise. It even seems like the world itself is looking for some kind of hope. My wish is that many people will find it because God is hope's answer.

Spring brings hope.

"The blossoms have already appeared in the land; the time has arrived for pruning the vines, and the voice of the turtledove has been heard in our land." - Song of Solomon 2:12 NASB

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Devotional: Love Your Enemies

Some, or a lot of us have enemies. They're the ones trying to ruin our lives. Or even worse, destroy them. And maybe some of us wish for justice to come swiftly for our enemies. We also might begin to hate them ourselves. Remember, the hate that drove them to hurt you can drive you to hate them back. Are we supposed to hate them, though? No, we're not. We're actually told to love them. And it doesn't matter what they've done, we can't hate.

Jesus is our example of what to do when we're surrounded by our enemies. Do we hurt those with the same hurt they gave us? We'd be like them, and we don't want to do that. Will your enemy stop harassing you if you show them love? I don't know, but all we can do is try. Because of Jesus, we're different from our enemies. We're actually told to love those that persecute us. I know that's hard, but it releases us from their earthly harm.

It's important to know that they can't take that freedom from your spirit. They can't make you hate them. Nothing that they can do will keep you from being loved by Jesus. Watch out, though. Satan may try to use your enemies to hurt or kill you, but he won't win. You may face hardship, but Jesus has you. All we need to do is love. Love everyone we can. Give your love to anyone you come across. It might just change their hearts.

If you're facing a battle today, know that you're not alone. Unfortunately, we're constantly bombarded by hate. In this world, we're told to look down on others. Don't fall into the same trap. And be careful. You don't want to become someone's enemy. Be a peace-giver instead. Love all that come in contact with you. Be like Jesus to those that hate. We can only change the world with our love. Make it a radical point to love your enemies. 

Be radical. Love those that hate you.

"But I say to you who hear, love your enemies, do good to those that hate you." - Luke 6:27 NASB

Many blessings,

- Grace Thorson

Devotional: We Will Continue To Grow

As Christians, we can face harsh persecution from the devil and anyone that considers us as enemies. And of course, the hardships of this world cause strain, as well. Nothing in this life is easy. In fact, no one is given immunity. Not one of us are invincible. But do you know who is? God. When life is deafening, we can depend on Him. Collectively, as one in the faith with other believers, we only grow stronger. Nothing can stop His love from growing. 

I gain great encouragement from knowing that God has complete control. He's been here since the beginning of time (and even before). He can do anything, and He won't let His people be defeated. As one, we can never stop. We won't give in to the enemy. The devil can try all he can, but it won't work. Sure, he'll cause havoc, but he's not God. As much as he wants to be, he'll never take over. Christians will only grow, with nothing to stop them.

We're all warriors here. In this battle, all we have to do is love Him, and protect ourselves with His Word. He'll take care of the rest. With His love, we can all grow like an Iris, not even letting the cold destroy us. His warmth is all we need. The devil may try to cause us to wilt. But God is and always will be with us. And as one, we're sure to spread His love to everyone. Our growth cannot be stopped. And even throughout all of time, we're still here.

We remain, and we'll keep going. The world may harm us at times, but we're strong in the Lord. We'll win any battle forged against us. Take this as hope, my friend. God won't let His people be destroyed. In fact, we'll most likely only grow stronger. Together we can make a difference. We can win the war, but we can't do it alone. We need each other. Only then can we win the war against our enemies. And the devil won't ever win. He can't stop us.

We will continue to grow.

"The righteous person will flourish like the palm tree, he will grow like a cedar in Lebanon. Planted in the house of the Lord, they will flourish in the courtyards of our God" - Psalm 92:12-13 NASB

Do you need prayer? Send me an email at: thewanderingwithgrace@gmail.com

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Devotional: God Is With You

I deal with fear. Fear of the world. And my own anxieties. It can be a daily thing. As I scroll through social media and the news, fear appears to be rampant everywhere. We've become unsure. Unsure of our futures, life itself, our loved ones, actually everything. Because of that, I wanted to write a devotional about fear today. I have written another devotional about fear before on this blog. You can read it here. And you know what, I felt like writing another one again. I hope this devotional encourages you as much as writing it did for me.

Fear can be an overwhelming feeling. It can follow us around wherever we go. It lurks around corners. It hides in the darkness, ready to envelope our beings. We may know what could happen to us in the future, but since we can only guess, we're not entirely sure. It's that uncertainty. It gets me every time. It's especially hard for me because of my anxiety, my need to feel in control, and the constant thinking. I'm an over-thinker, so the fears can really be hard to face. I usually try to combat it in my own way. Doesn't always work.

What works is God. Many years past, I didn't know how to deal with fear. But now, God is the answer. When I'm faced with fear, I just pass it to Him. I trust God, so I know I can rely on Him. Things could get hard, yes, but at least I won't be alone facing them. He reminds me constantly that He's with me, and that everything is going to be okay. I don't have to worry. Sure, I may still feel some fear and anxiety, but I have a way to control it - He controls it. I don't. I can go on with my life, allowing Him complete control.

When we're starting to get that prick of fear, all we have to do is seek Him out. Pray. Read His Word. Memorize scripture. Write. Talk with a trusted, Christian friend. God gave us these things, so that we could communicate with Him. He loves us. He's going to protect our souls. He's with us everywhere we go. Everywhere. He's with us at the grocery store, the movie theater, and even in the car. We're not alone, and that's a comforting thought. Remember, God will not leave us. He is with you. He is with me. You're safe.

God is with you. Always.

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not be terrified nor dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go." - Joshua 1:9 NASB

Do you need prayer? Send me an email at: thewanderingwithgrace@gmail.com

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Devotional: When The Holy Spirit Speaks

I was looking for protection and refuge from the world. I had taken a picture of the sky that evening. I wanted to share it on social media but didn't know what to say. I decided that a verse might be a good choice. I sometimes like to add them with a photo I took. I looked up verses on google for ones that meant protection or safety. I came across Psalm 46:1. It seemed well-chosen for that night. After that night, I went to work as usual in the day. I wasn't expecting anything to happen from it, but I would later find a gift.

Once I got home, I decided to do God Time. It's where I read devotionals, write, and pray. Well, I hadn't done it in a month, so I felt like I needed to, and I wanted to spend time with God again. One of the devotionals I picked up had a daily devo and a verse attached to it. I opened the devotional, and the verse written above the writing was Psalm 46:1. I couldn't believe it. It was the same verse that I had selected the night before. Was the Holy Spirit trying to talk to me? Was He confirming the verse from the night before?

That afternoon, I was struck with surprise and joy. The Holy Spirit comforted me with that verse, and now I feel completely safe within God's arms. I know He watches over me, but sometimes I still feel afraid. But He knows how I feel each day. And He protects me and encourages me with His mighty love. I'm so thankful to the Holy Spirit for giving me that verse, because now I'm going to hold tight to it. But I also felt like I needed to share it with others, so that's why I added it to my devotional today. It was meant to be shared.

God gave me some color and light again in my life. It's no longer bleak. Sure. There might be some hard days, but His love will always get me through. And I know He's with me all the time. He demonstrated it clearly. And He's with you all the time, too. Seek Him out. That's what He was saying to me, as well, and to you. Seek Him out. He's longing to hear from you, and He'll provided you with comfort through His Word. Thank you, Jesus. Thank you for comforting me with your Word. And for the ability to share it with others.

He's there for us. Waiting. The Holy Spirit speaks.

"God is our refuge and strength, a very ready help in trouble." - Psalm 46:1 NASB

Do you need prayer? Leave a comment, and I'll pray for you.

Many blessings,

- Grace Thorson 

Christmas Blog Advent: Day 8 - Devotional: Every Season Has A Reason

We often attribute summer and winter to be hard seasons. Of course, depending on where you live, certain seasons can be worse than others. Here, summer and winter appear to be the most difficult ones. Whatever season is the most dreaded can take a toll on us, and we can even reluctantly go through winter. We may or may not look forward to it every year, but winter is needed, especially for nature. We might hesitate to see winter as essential, but it really is. Each season has a reason on this planet, and God orchestrates it all.

I see seasons in nature as seasons in our lives. We can go through some pretty tough days, and they may seem like winter to us. All we can perceive is the cold, the snow, and the worsening driving conditions. I know that winter can be harder than spring or autumn, but it's usually a season we have to endure. I may like winter, but I really don't look forward to clearing snow off my car and heating it up inside. Driving in the ice even gives me anxiety. Despite these struggles, I still enjoy winter. It has some good in it, after all.

Earth depends on winter every year. It has many important uses. And some places have snow all year, while some don't have any at all. I think that learning to adapt to changes in our lives is crucial, whether we have snow or not in winter. God gave us this season, so it's become something we have to regulate with. We may not want to, but it's part of our lives. There are days that are hard in my own life, and I wonder why I have to deal with them. But that's life. We have times where life is either easier or harder. But we must endure.

To get through winter in our lives, we must focus on God. Read His Word. Fellowship with others. Pray. There are ways to help us during these trying times, so that we can all keep going. Because we will eventually get through it. Winter never lasts which is so comforting. Spring is always right around the corner; we just have to be patient in our afflictions. The nice thing to remember, is that it's normal to have struggles, just like it's normal to have winter. We all go through this, but we have God to guide us. And we'll be okay.

Every season has a reason.

"For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven."
- Ecclesiastes 3:1 ESV

Do you need prayer? Leave a comment, and I'll pray for you.

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Devotional: You Are Unique

Amidst a plethora of people, you may feel like everyone else. Just another flower standing next to another flower of the same color. While it may appear this way, you're so very far from ordinary. Before you were born, you were preplanned in God's mind. He created you, uniquely you. He knew what your name was going to be, how many hairs are on your head, and even your own fingerprints. You aren't common. You're rare. You're special. You're so literally one of a kind. There is no copy of you. You are you, my friend, and no one else.

Life is hard. Fighting those thoughts in our head that we're nothing can be constant and devastating. The lies we tell ourselves aren't true. Satan also doesn't want you to realize how beautiful, loved, and special you really are. He'll fight that to your core. He'll even use others to bully you, tease you, and hate you. It doesn't matter what they think. It hurts, of course. But in this war we're in, we have the weapons to fight back Satan and the haters. We can use prayer, read God's Word, and spend time with those that love you.

Right down to your DNA, you're pretty awesome, you know. You were created by the Creator. You weren't created by anyone else. Every cell, body part, and even your life blood was knit together. You're a walking miracle. Everyone in the world should see us that way, but instead we fight. We hate. When you think about it, it's mind-boggling. We should cherish every life, no matter how small it may be. When you realize this, the world becomes so magical. Life is precious and should be celebrated every day.

I just wish that people would see each other differently. As amazing as it is, you're not just flesh and blood. You were formed to have a personality, preferences, memories, and those feelings unique to you. I feel like we forget that. We also have a soul - it was given to us by God. Putting that all together, we somehow function properly. I'll forever be in awe of this. Remember, when you think you're worthless, know that God made you. He loves you, and you were meant to exist in this world. He knit you perfectly together.

You are truly unique.

"For You created my innermost parts; You wove me in my mother's womb. I will give thanks to You, because I am awesomely and wonderfully made; wonderful are Your works, and my soul knows it very well." - Psalm 139:13-14 NASB

Do you need prayer? Leave a comment, and I'll pray for you.

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Devotional: God Is Protecting Us

In this world, I feel vulnerable. I know that in the spiritual side of it, there's battles being waged. Battles we can't see but are real. And me? I just deal with a lot of anxiety. Anxiety about everything. In fact, I pray for protection when I get into my car. I know that only God can protect me, so I pray often for it. This doesn't mean that something bad won't happen. When we go out from within our home (our safe place), anything could happen. That's why I like to be prepared with prayer. God hears my prayers, and that provides me with peace.

Knowing that God is always with me, gives me courage. It helps me face my fears even when I feel alone. This doesn't make us invincible, but it gives us strength. I mean, God is also stronger than any foe. He can protect us from anything. The part I love the most about this is that God will protect my heart and your heart. Your soul is secure in Him. It's not going to leave you. He's with you wherever you go, and He has a place provided for you in Heaven. You're going to be okay. I'm going to be okay. It's just the fear that rises within us.

I've written about fear before in a devotional (you can read it here). It can stop us from many things. I decided for myself that I wasn't going to let it control me. Sure. I'll have anxiety. But I'll press on. It doesn't matter how hard life gets; I'll keep going. I've tried to give up before, and I'm determined to fight that fear this time. In the past, I was really focused on fear that I didn't see. I didn't see the light. I wasn't alone. I was never alone. Looking back, I can see God working through my past. Since then, I've tried to give God my fears, anxieties, and worries. They're too heavy for me to carry, and I need the rest.

If you're feeling burdened, give God your fears. Mine are too heavy for me on this journey, so that's why I'm trying to hand them over. Of course, this is hard to do. We kind of want to hang onto them, don't we? However, I've learned this doesn't ease anything in my life. I have to hand them over. I'm tired. But God is strong. He'll take them off our backs easily. I feel free when I give them to Him. I also know that God will watch over me, so I don't have to worry so much. I place my heart in His mighty hands. God protects us, even in the spiritual realm. We may not be able to see what He's doing, but we're safe with Him. 

Always.

"God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble." - Psalm 46:1 NASB

Do you need prayer? Leave a comment, and I'll pray for you.

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Devotional: Receiving His Grace

 
Grace. It's what we don't deserve but are given anyways. It's obviously my first name, but somehow, I've never been able to comprehend it. I've gone my whole life being extremely hard on myself, and I was confused at what grace even meant. I would compare it to mercy, but it's not the same thing. So usually, I wouldn't give grace to myself. I've done many things I'm not happy about, so I didn't and still don't think I deserve it. I've gone my whole life this way. What is even grace? I would think, but I would learn to understand it.

God's grace is beautiful. It's just so amazing. He gives us what we don't deserve. We're sinful creatures, so do we really deserve grace? God thinks so, and I'm so glad He does. Unfortunately, I've noticed that in today's society, grace isn't practiced much. Only God appears to be the gift bearer of this wonderful gift. We can be so hard on others, and ourselves, that we forget to be full of grace to the world. God gives us grace, so naturally we should gift it to people, too. Let's make grace popular again.

Like I mentioned above, I think it's interesting that even though my name is Grace, I've never really understood it. But He's often reminded me of his vast grace. It covers my multitude of sins. I truly don't deserve His grace, but I'm so overjoyed that He gives it to me. It really is like a gift that is wrapped in love and finished with a bow of joy. I eagerly wait for it when He gives it to me. Kind of like a kid on Christmas morning, I always look forward to His gifts. They're the best kind, especially when it's grace. I thank God for grace in my life, and I hope to share it with those that need it in their lives.

So, when you're in not a good place, just remember God's grace. It's there, and He's always willing to give it to you. And God's grace is all we need. We can survive on just that, and His love for us. We have an enemy that, however, doesn't want us to receive grace. He'll fight to keep you from accepting God's grace. He did that in my life, and I'm certain he'll keep at it. We just have to remember that Satan can't keep you from receiving it, though. You'll be able to open that precious gift as soon as you realize it. In other words, grace isn't going anywhere. God is there waiting to give it to you - that amazing grace.

Receive His grace today.

"For by grace you have been saved through faith; and this is not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not a result of works, so that no one may boast." - Ephesians 2:8-9 NASB

Do you need prayer? Leave a comment, and I'll pray for you.

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Devotional: Laugh At Fear

 
Most of us face fear. Our circumstances could be different, but the same feeling is shared. It's that sinking feeling in the pit of our stomachs. Even our heartbeats speed rapidly, not slowing down. We can also pace because our minds are frantic with worry. I've experienced fear, too. Too great, actually. Fear is unfortunately powerful and can make us act so desperate. Once it grabs hold of your mind, it's hard to shake off. And when fear takes over, anxiety begins to grow within us. It can cause stress, and even health problems. Our fears begin to take its toll on our bodies and heart, actually weighing us down.

What's the antidote? I wish I knew what the ultimate cure was. Fear is something that probably can't be taken out of our lives completely. It'll probably always be there, deep within us. I know. That doesn't sound too encouraging. There are, however, some things we can do to fight it. Instead of allowing fear complete control of our lives, we can find solace, bravery, and love. But the most ultimate way to fight it, is to laugh. Yes, laugh. If you can stand tall and laugh in the face of fear, you've eased some of its hold on you. Just show fear that it has now power over you. That, it has no say in your life.

Laugh. Laugh because you know that Jesus is with you. Fear can't defeat Him. And it won't defeat you. Yes, fear will always be there. It won't forever leave, but you've got what you need to fight it. You've got Christ, and He's your safe place amidst those dark storms. In fact, with Him, you can challenge anything. Fear might be right in your face, and you know what you can do? You can laugh at it. Whether it be a little chuckle, or a hearty one, it doesn't matter. It has the same freedom either way. You'll see. Laughter will loosen those chains that fear has restrained us in. I promise you'll feel lighter.

I still deal with fear. I know it's there, and it's a struggle. I remember. Jesus is with me, and I can laugh at it with Him. Honestly, though, fear is a huge struggle for me, so I suffer from it daily. To combat this, I got a bracelet that has a cross beaded within it. It's my reminder to laugh at fear. I wear it as often as I can. If you deal with fear, too, I suggest doing the same thing. I love that Jesus gives us His Word, and tools to use for the fear in our lives. Laughter just happens to be one of them. I know that when fear comes around, I'm going to keep laughing, because I know that Christ has me. And He has you, as well, my friend.

Laugh at the future, and what may come of it.

"She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future." - Proverbs 31:25 NLT

Do you need prayer? Leave a comment, and I'll pray for you.

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Devotional: You Have An Enemy

We all have this one thing in common. We fight the same enemy; most are unaware of it. We go through our days, completely oblivious to the hidden danger. I mean, if we can't see this enemy, then it's not a problem, right? Some might even laugh at the thought. This is no laughing matter, however. The enemy we're up against has a name. It's Satan. He's the world's worst nightmare, and he moves through all our lives, fully present. We may not be able to see him, but we can see the destruction he causes. It's everywhere.

I want you to think of the worst problems we face today. I can think of many instances where evil is constant and seeming to grow rapidly. When we hear on the news a story that is truly heartbreaking, we can see the darkness at work. It will only spread, because Satan preys on all of us. It doesn't matter if you're a Christian or not. At some point in your life, you've most likely seen what he can do. I also feel that Satan likes to prey on the innocent the most, like children and animals. He causes as much pain as possible.

Yes, he's vile. He'll go after anything or anyone to cause havoc. We, of course, are not completely powerless against our adversary. To lessen his hold on us, we can pray, spread kindness, and just make this world a somewhat habitable place for everyone. However, humans are selfish, and we give in to the temptations of Satan. The most worst thoughts imaginable become reality in this harsh environment. The one thing I don't understand is how we can blame God for any of this. Satan is to blame.

I've become more aware of the spiritual side - which is why I'm writing about this today. Life is a daily battle. My own battle is that I have horrible thoughts about myself. I can't always seem to get rid of them. One day, during these thoughts, a powerful line came into my mind, "You would be the first into battle." It gave me chills, and I knew it was the Holy Spirit. It gave me courage to face the daily battles I go through, and I hope this devo encourages you to never stop fighting our enemy. But, don't worry. In the end, we win.

Keep fighting.

"For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places." - Ephesians 6:12 NASB

Do you need prayer? Leave a comment, and I'll pray for you.

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson