For the past year it seems God has taken me on a journey. Not one that has taken me far. But one that has taken me deeper where I already am. I thought I had a strong faith in God, but through some difficult circumstances, God has shown me that my faith wasn’t always fully in Him. Sometimes it was in Him … and me.
I’ll explain in a minute, but first, thank you for joining me today. If you are visiting for the first time after reading my devotion “A Ram is on the Way,” I hope you’ll stay awhile. At least stay til the end of this post where I’m going to give away two copies of my dear friend Renee Swope’s first book, “A Confident Heart.”
Now back to my original thought …
Abraham had a sincere and complete faith in God. One that I want. You see, before God asked Abraham to sacrifice his son, God gave Abraham a promise:
“I will make you very fruitful; I will make nations of you, and kings will come from you. I will establish my covenant as an everlasting covenant between me and you and your descendants after you for the generations to come, to be your God and the God of your descendants after you.” (Gen. 17:6-7)
Abraham believed God would provide descendants. Period. So if God asked him to sacrifice Isaac, there was another way God would fulfill His promise.
That is confidence … boldness … faith without doubt. And, as I mentioned, that is a faith that I wish I had. Actually, it’s a faith I know GOD wants me to have.
Yet I’ve dealt with so many doubts. It’s not that I doubt God CAN do anything He wants to do. I doubt He’ll want to do it for me. And I know that must make God sad. I know He really wants me to trust Him completely. He wants my full confidence. Just like Abraham had.
So I’ve been dealing with the weak areas of my faith. I’m acknowledging they exist, and I’m presenting them honestly before God. But I’m not leaving it there. God has called me to actively deal with this issue. No longer will I accept this lack of faith as a part of who I am. In taking this pro-active approach, there are two things I’m doing differently.
1) I’m making a choice to take doubtful thoughts captive. I will not allow myself to dwell on them when they enter my mind. When I start to think, What am I going to do if God doesn’t come through? I grab ahold of that negative thought and toss it into the trash. Then I replace it with a positive thought: I trust YOU!
2) I’m praying differently. Instead of telling God exactly what I want Him to do, my prayers are more open. For example, we had a serious issue early in the summer with one of our children. I knew something had to change, but I didn’t know what. My prayers went something like this: Lord, we need Your help. We need You to intervene and show us what to do.
Then we chose to believe He would show us what to do. Within days, God brought an answer. He has continued to answer our prayers in miraculous ways when we just choose to trust that He will provide . I’m finding my faith is growing when I present a general request for a need, then watch for an answer.
My friend Renee Swope has dealt with doubts too. And God has worked miracles in her heart and life as she has been honest about her insecurities. In fact, she has written an entire book about God’s work in her life, titled “A Confident Heart.”
What I love about this book is Renee’s gut-level honesty. She deals with issues that most women experience, but are ashamed to talk about. After all, who wants people to know how afraid they really are that people won’t accept them? Or that they will never be good enough? Or that they believe they aren’t worth anyone loving them?
Renee walks you through each doubt, and then replaces the lies with God’s truth. And it’s in that place of uncovering what’s been hidden, that healing starts. Not some power-of-positive-thinking healing, but true I’m-not-a-slave-anymore healing! The kind that only comes from God’s miraculous hand and the power of His Word.
I believe this book will set women free from bondage to lies. And it’s my honor to give away two copies today. To win, simply post a comment. I’m asking Renee to help me choose the winners and they will be announced on Thursday. (Sometimes I post late in the day, so it might be Friday for some of you.)
Thanks so much for joining me today. May the Lord bless you, and increase your faith.
Glynnis
God’s timing is perfect.
The Lord strengthens my faith through his angels like you, that he sent to spread his love to us all. Thank you!
I understand so much of what you wrote today. I tried taking my life almost a year ago and the Lord would not let me do it. He sent my family and friend to save me and I am so Blessed for it. I have grown closier to the Lord over this past year and it is so wonderful. I still have ups and downs but I seek the Lord and He shows me the way. Thank You Lord Jesus for all Your wonderful Blessings. I am stepping out in fear and leading my first Bible Study on ” A Confident Heart”. Thank you ladies at Proverb’s 31 for all your devotions each and every day, they are beautiful.
Thank you, all day in my head and heart I am saying a ram is on the way.
I have been unemployed since 6/08 and have not found fulltime permanent employment. One thing that w hit home for me I belive can do anything but nit for me. I have often prayed and see others get blessed but not me. I can honestly admit publicly that this an area of weakness for me , and has cause my faith to waver many times.
I believe God led me to this blog. He knows I’m suffering and my faith is wavering, as I’m going through a bitter divorce right now, and trying to raise three young children on my own. But I now have a renewed sense of faith, knowing my ram is just on the other side of the mountain! Thank you!
Best wishes to u & ur girls throughout this ordeal. This too shall pass. Ur sister in Christ
Wow. I just finished reading “A Ram is on the Way” and can hardly see the computer screen through the tears. The events of my day left me depleted. On my way to the deck to spend the evening seeking the Lord on behalf of my hurting and tested family, I “felt” compelled (thank you Holy Spirit) to check my emails. (by the way, I rarely check them…in fact I try to avoid the computer
) A friend forwarded me your devotional. God’s Word to my heart ~ a direct arrow hitting me right where I am at. No, I cannot understand or see the way right now, but I DO beleive Him and know He just sent me a word from His own heart.
Thank you for the devotional. It is the thing I needed to hear. I have been struggling with my daughter lately. I feel hopeless and frustrated at how this particular situation will change this year and I needed encouragement. It isn’t a big hopeless situation just one of those daily struggles that just wears on you. I needed to hear “to put one foot in front of the other.” I don’t know how this situation will change tomorrow or in the future but I have to believe that God will provide. He will provide that answer and He is working in me and in my daughter.
How do you deal with forgiving yourself? I grew up in an abusive home that we walked on egg shells not knowing what kind of mood my dad would be in. I thought I was raising my kids away from that with love and a good Christian foundation. As my grown kids tell me today I must have been so much like my father. Over the years God has taken away my temper and anger but there’s is no do overs to change my life and the damage I did to my family. I was in church everytime the doors were opened because I found a family I longed for but I wasn’t allowing God to be in control. I failed as a mom and it hurts so much. My self talk brings needs to be more positive and forgiving to me and my family. Thanks for your devotion.
Sharon – so many moms can relate to your story. There are very few moms who think they did everything right, and so many beat themselves us. I’m sure you know all the “right” words to tell yourself, but believing them is a different story.
You are a new creation in Christ, but sometimes it takes years to peel off the bad habits. The truth is, every day is a brand new day. As long as your children are breathing, there is a chance to change things.
You can be the mother you always wanted to be now, and trust God to redeem those moments you wish had never happened. We all have them. You are not alone.
In His love,
Glynnis
Thank u for ur post, I feel the same, glad were not alone & we serve an amazing God who forgives.
Hi, thank you very much for your sharing. It reassures me of a critcal decision that I’ve made a few days ago. Something I can’t see, touch or hold at the moment, but just trust that everything will turn out great by God’s leading. Hava a nice day~
Its time to be healed and free!
In His grace,
Karan
Amen.
Such a powerful ministry this “Encouragement for Today” has been and continues to be. Sometimes our journeys are long and and wear us down. But our Lord has always been there, carrying us through, even when we don’t see it.
Today’s “Encouragement” is right on time, yet isn’t that what our God is (right on time)? Trust Him.
Thank you.
Thank you for your words of encouragement. I’m praying for peace during a difficult situation and placing my trust in Him. I would enjoy reading Renee’s new book.
All I have is God. I put my faith totally in Him this year and what a ride it has been.I cling to him plastic wrap over a bowl holding everything in. God is in control and I remind myself everyday that I am his and he will never leave me or foresake me. Thank you for the devotiaon today.
Thank you so much for such great encouragement!
Thank you for this encouraging word!
The Ram is on the way, what a message!!! My faith and confidence is at another level, this message has touched me right in my spirit, thank you very much God bless you.
Thanks for your word. It is encouraging to know that so many of us wrestle with the same thing but that God walks us through learning how to trust Him completely.
How true – learning to trust Him (truly) as much as we say we do. One step at a time – knowing He is right there, always working. He led me to this web site because my faith is wavering (I want to step in there and do something when I know HE is the only One who can really take care of the situation). How I struggle with leaving it all in His hands (even though that is exactly what I would tell someone else to do). “Oh ye of little faith.”
As an adoptive mom who struggled with infertility the story of Abraham and Isaac always brings tears to my eyes. All I wanted was to be a mom and the thought of giving up my one and only son for anyone even God seems impossible. What an amazing faiith But isn’t that what God did for me? He gave his one and only son Jesus.
Glynnis, l just want to thank you for opening up to us in your writings. I “discovered” you last spring and God has been using your writings to minister to me, to awaken me to certain issues and challenged me ever since. Today is no exception. I realized I need to really work on taking those negative messages in my head captive and throwing them in a garbage can. I am going to need a bigger garbage can. Thanks again and God bless you!
Hi Melodie – I’m so glad we’ve “met”. Thank you for your sweet words, and go get two garbage cans if necessary. (smile)
LOVED your devotion, Glynnis! Another timely word for me! Thank you! Blessings, Cheri
Hi friend. Thank you.
There have been many times when I would hit my knees and cry out “Lord, where is my ram-I don’t see him yet!” Thanks for your insightful devotional this morning. God ALWAYS provides but it’s always in HIS time, not ours. I pray daily for the ability to trust HIS Word.
Again, thanks, Sue
“Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God, being fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised. This is why ‘it is credited to him as righteousness’” (Romans 4:20-22). That’s something to linger over. Thank you for sharing your heart openly and honestly. Thanks, too, for the great analogies and encouragement today.
Hi Karen – those are incredible words. The more I read about faith, the more I realize how important is it that we don’t doubt. Easy to say, hard to live out.
GOD will provide! I’m going to PROCLAIM it and TRUST in His promise! Thank you for your words of encouragement. I can’t wait to share it with a friend!
Thank You Glynnis for this word today. My husband and I are right now in one of the toughest places we have ever been. He, by nature, walks in faith and trust in God. It is much more difficult for me. But, as my husband commented to me the other day, it could be that this trying time is God pushing and stretching my faith. I followed Renee’s 7-Day Doubt Diet and saw so much of me in her writings. I am learning to put my confidence in Him and to stop trying to control what He does.
My Ram is coming, I know it. Thank you so much for your encouragement today!! It is exactly what I needed to hear!!
Kelli – it’s in those hard places my faith has grown the most. I wish it could be in the easy places. But in those places, I know I can rescue myself. It’s when there’s no option for self-rescue that I clearly see God’s hand. And then my faith grows. I’m praying the same happens for you.
A few weeks ago I was having trouble accepting that the Lord was leading me in a different direction in my work. I had lost three part-time jobs within a seven month period, and my husband suggested that this was clear direction to move on. If finances were not a consideration, I would have reveled in the thought of having time to do some things I’ve been putting off for years (projects, etc.) but finances ARE a consideration (otherwise I would not have been stringing together three part-time jobs!). I applied for a few job postings that seemed to be a good fit for my skills, and at the encouragement of my husband I sent a resume to a university, even though there were no open job postings and in my mind no option that they would hire me for anything. BUT THEN they called me and last week I signed a contract to be adjunct faculty for the fall for a course for seniors in their final semester and was given the direction to make the class what seems right to me! I have never been given carte blanche such freedom before! I have taught at a community college for six years, so teaching itself is not new, but to teach a class without structure will be new. Yesterday morning I walked my dog for an hour as the sun was rising and I talked to God about my gratitude to have a job again and expressing my questions about this new direction – which is different, but not entirely different – and wondering what He is preparing me for now. As I reflect on my life, each time there was change, it was change that He had clearly prepared me for, but I could never see it in the moment. Needless to say I am curious and excited, but still have some doubts about all of it. HE opened the door HE wanted me to go through, but for the most part it was not the door I knocked at with any real hope of being let it. Trying to come to grips with that…..
Crystal – what an incredible answer to prayer. I’m praising God with you today – for meeting your needs and for opening up new and exciting doors of opportunity.
I have been away from the Lord for so many,many years and now it is as if he is readi g my every thought and showig me where i am sinning that I never realized and knowing I am so very self doubting and showing me how to trust it is so wonderful I just can’t believe he still loves me but I kow he does but I still have so much doubt in myself Thank you for your wonderful story I don’t feel so alone anymore
ImaJean – I’m so glad you visited my blog and commented today. I’m praying for you!
Oh Glynnis, you have no idea how your message today is truly God’s perfect timing….I have been struggling for some time now with trust and confidence. I so often stress over my situation as a single mom of 3 school age children and the responsibilties that come with that. How in the world will i accomplish all that needs to be done in the day? I don’t at all, I end up exhausted in a heap on my bed at night cause my legs just can’t do one more step and my mind worries over all that is still left undone….I strive daily to find at least a few minutes to spend with my children without barking out a command to do something or intervening arguments but I fear that doesn’t happen like i hope. And there are times i wonder how in the world would anyone love or want a stressed out, overwhelmed, tired mom of 3. I know God provides…i’ve seen proof of that time and time again but I struggle to Trust that He always does. I spend too much time trying to do it all myself and having control instead of just sometimes letting go and letting God. Thank you for this story of Abraham and Isaac and the ram…what a beautiful illustration.
Hi Shelia – I can’t imagine the burdens you carry alone. It must feel overwhelming at times. I’m praying that God reveals Himself to you in miraculous, yet tender ways. And that your faith is strengthened so that there is no room for worry or anxiety – only His peace.
Glynnis, you took the words out of my mouth! I don’t ever doubt that God CAN do something, I just think He won’t do it for me. Thank you for your words today. They are an encouragement!
I am in tears as I read. I don’t subscribe tho the link to this devotion was sent to me from a friend I haven’t seen in 13 years (and keep superficially intouch thru facebook) who said she read it and thought of me. I didn’t make it past the first few lines, when I just knew, God, put it on her heart to send it to me. ME!! I am searching for His truth to replace the recording in my mind that keeps me inadequate. I can so relate, I know that God can do anything, but why oh why would he chose me? I know my perception of myself is inaccurate as a daughter of the King, but where are you God? You know I want to glorify you…I believe…help me in my unbelief…
Praying right alongside you, sister. I’m praying God shows Himself to you in miraculous ways this week so you have proof of His love. Actually, I think He already has through your friend.
What an awesome messsge that spoke clearly to my heart. We are dealing with many stresses in our family right now (husband laid off of work, bills, and a newborn blessing) this message spoke to me directly and reminded me who to trust in the midst of the storm! Thank you for your ministry!
Thank you! As usual the timing is impeccable. Over the weekend I was asked to chair the dance clinic for my daughters high school dance team. Never having done this before, of course I am skeptical. My daughter is very concerned that I will not get much help and have to do most of this myself. Working full time in many instances leaves little time for outside volunteering. At any rate, I was excited to have been asked and given the opportunity. But after talking to my daughter, seeds of doubt have started to creep in. Now I’m wondering “can I do this?” “am I good enough”… you know…. I have no idea what is going to happen with this or if anyone will help me organize, but I’ve got to put my faith and trust in God that he will help me see this through and erase those seeds of doubt! Thank you so much for taking the time to create this post and share your experieces. You truly are encouraging me! God Bless You!
Thank you for sharing this truth. It is very true and I have found that when I let go completely and ask God to handle a situation…He always comes through. It can be scary when you turn it over because usually the answer is brought about in ways that you yourself would never dream or ask. Thanks again for sharing your heart!
That is the kind of faith I want to have! Even though God has proven to be faithful in my trials, and I know He is able to help/heal, I, too, wonder if He would choose to do that for me. He does not always answer “Yes.”
God bless your ministry, Glynnis!
Jenn – you are right. And that’s why I’ve changed how I pray. I still ask for what I want, but most of the time, I’m just begging God to intervene. Then I watch for His answer. It’s always there.
Thanks, Glynnis! Since I read this the other day, I have been bringing my friends, family, and personal issues to God in prayer and then asking Him to intervene in a way that brings us each closer to an intimate relationship with Him. It is not easy to let go of a particular expectation in a specific circumstance. But His will is what I want in my life.
God bless you!
Wow! I feel like you are riding the same brainwave as me. The words in your devotion could have been my very own. Thank you for the encouragement. It’s the day-to-day things that get me off track — and I needed to be reminded that these “little” doubts do not have to take up residence in my heart:)
“Catch for us the foxes, the little foxes that ruin the vineyards, our vineyards that are in bloom.” Song of Solomom 2:15
Thank you for your encouragement to rest in Truth and not in our feelings and emotions. God is our faithful provider.
Boy, did I need this. I try so very hard to trust God will provide, and I know he can do all things. I guess my problem is I don’t know why he would do it for me and I don’t know how he can do it. My husband was out of work for a while, he is working now, but we are in such a financial mess from getting behind on things. I pray about this but I guess I don’t feel like I am good enough for God to help us. I am going to try your suggestions and change the way I pray. I also pray that I will feel God’s presence with me but alot of times I feel so all along. Alot of times I just feel like I can’t go on. Thank you for sharing your life. I know I will be re-reading this several times a day.
Jill – I’m so glad you found your way to my blog today. Many of us, myself included, are digging out of financial holes caused by the past few years. I don’t think God is looking for “good enough.” He’s looking for the faithful. He wants to bless those who trust Him. At least, that’s what I see when I read the Bible. God loves our faith in Him.
Glynnis,
This is one of my favorite stories in the bible. I love the way Abraham had such unfailing faith in God. He knew that “God himself would provide the sacrifice”. And that kind of faith we teach our kids by living it everyday. Nowhere does it mention that Isaac struggled on the alter to save himself. He had the same faith as his daddy. What a beautiful picture of salvation…A ram in the thicket of thorns to be the substitute for Isaac. When I read about the way Isaac questions his father about the sacrificial lamb it makes me cry. Not only because of his innocense, but also because of what his father must have been feeling. Yes, Abraham was a faithful servant of God, but he was also a husband and father. What a beautiful picture you painted of the ram coming up the other side of the mountain as Abraham and Isaace travel the opposite side…Help is already on the way. Thank you so much for the reminder that “The Ram is on the way” in my life as well. Faith is all we really have.
Some time ago, I read “Mercy is what we need, grace is what we must have, or all our life and effort will end in complete failure. Prayer is the way to get them. ” I hate to admit, but I do not know who I am quoting, but it has stuck with me throughout my adult life. Many years ago, I quit praying specifics about my hurdles in life and began as you have, praying for guidance and wisdom. He has not failed me yet!! Praise God!
Hi Glynnis,I glad to have subscribed to your blog,thank you for today’s message and thank you for being open about your life.I also experience the same thing about trusting God,I asked myself some time last week:”why can’t I have Abraham’s faith?’he took God’s word as it was,at leasr now I know that I’m not alone,again thank you so much for this message,it has really uplifted me.I will try harder to hold captive all those negative thoughts.God bless you!
This came right on time!! Oh my goodness- I just finished my seven day removing doubt series- that I found on here. As a single parent I often have those days where I just know that God is not listening!! and I have to learn to trust Him and to be still! Especially during these last two weeks when I had no money for food, or the electric bill, and I finally spoke to God and said- you told me my foundations were made of rubies, and that i was to take the ties off my tent so that it could be enlarged- and several hours later- God answered a prayer like never before- my car was going to be repossessed on the monday -this was a saturday and a lady i have only spoken with maybe twice in my life- called me and said she would make a payment for me!! God is so awesome, and today I was thinking how do I tell them I have no gas to come to work tomorrow- and a friends mother sent me a text at 6 this morning and blessed me with gas money! I didn’t even ask or speak it out loud- my faith is strengthen- yes I know some days will always be harderd than others- but God is so …. real and awesome
I love reading the comments……they are a devotional in themselves. I want to thank you for sharing this devotional, I am so hopeful that a ram if truely matching my steps of hardship to meet me before God’s alter. Thanks and blessings!
I have been praying for God to send me words of encouragement. This is the second time this week God has sent the Story of Abraham and Isaac my way.
Glynnis- You have no idea how this post has encouraged me today. I am in the darkest hour of my life…having found out that my “pastor” husband of 15 years has been involved in 2+ year extra-marital affair. Although we have tried to mend things, there is a sense within me that he has not relinquished all of the truth regarding his life. Without truth, there can be no foundation of trust. I have 2 wonderful kids who are being torn as their parents disagree about everything. I am to meet with legal counsel soon. But all the questions of doubt arise: is this what i should be doing? Why isn’t he more willing to pursue our marriage? What could I have possibly done to have been rejected so? How could he have broken our convenant & seemed surprised when saying ” I am sorry” did not seem to fix things? How can I care for my children? Is it wrong to long for someone (a mate) to be interested, in tune, and in love with me…..for who I am?
I don’t know if I need a ram or an elephant…but I do know that GOD IS FAITHFUL. He is faithful when we are not. He is life and life eternal and since eternity is translated to us in LOTS of small segments of time, He has to be with me at this moment…even if I can not see Him. Even if my marriage is about to die…God is here. Yahweh Yireh.
Dear sister – there are no human words to bring you comfort in this unbelievable trial you are experiencing. I had a friend who experienced this year ago, and she never felt like she knew the truth. She prayed and prayed for God to reveal the truth about her husband’s deeds. Then one day, God told her He had already revealed the truth – and it was found in His Word. You may never have all the answers to the questions of this world – why others do things, what we could have done differently. But we do have all the answers we need.
I’m agreeing with you that GOD IS FAITHFUL. And I’m praying for some miracles in your life. Thank you for taking the time to post a comment today. I wish I could wrap my arms around you, dear sister. But I’m praying you feel God’s love, my love and the love of other sisters in Christ who will read this today.
Your message (and glyniss’s) have given me so much encouragement for my own situation and I thank you from the bottom of my heart for being so honest and for sharing your love of God with others. I’ll be praying for you and your family. God bless you and carry you through these very dificult times. Praise The Lord sister, your ram is on its way…………
Thanks for the encouraging post today! Sometimes it’s not the really dark road that is such a struggle, it’s the mildly dim one that is miles and miles long.
I am just weary. I keep praying for wisdom. I just need to see a little light at the end of the tunnel. I ask a lot of times, are you really there God? I can believe it all I want but if circumstances don’t change then what’s the use of believing it. Even though I struggle with a lot of things right now, I still believe God is in control. The negative thoughts are just more dominant because not a whole lot of positive things have been happening to us lately. Everything you say is right on true but I don’t think what I believe is going to help my circumstances. I’m so confused.
Dearest Nanci,
Who you trust and follow will determine your direction and outcome. When you are in the dark tunnel, trust that God is leading the way. In the darkest days of our lives, we realize we are not in control of life. It is precisely there that we can choose to let go of our belief that we control things in our lives, and turn everything over to God. We wait to see what HE decides to do about our problems, in His timing. Sister, He is totally trustworthy. He will not let you down. Praying you will have peace as you place your trust in Him. Kimberly
Hello!! Is there any way to PRINT your daily devotions?? We would like to share them at breakfast time and our computer is not in the kitchen…
Thank you!
RHOnda
I am so thankful for you!!! You are the hands and feet of Christ and I am blessed to have found you. The timing of your posts are remarkable, as is His timing, which I have I hard time with. Cannot imagine a world without faith, what a dark place that would be. As small as a mustard seed. Thanks again!
It never ceases to amaze me how every one of the devotions i recieve is perfect for that day. This one is no different. I have been a born again Christian for many years and yet I still struggle with the faith issue. I don’t know how many times God has come through for me and yet when another issue arises there I am doubting again. This devotional has been an encouragement for today and has reminded me that i need to remember that God will provide in his timing, maybe not today or tomorrow, but in HIS timing. Thankyou for the daily encouragement that I recieve from this ministry. God bless you.
This speaks very deeply to me. I have a very dear friend who cannot bring herself to believe that God’s promises are true in her life. She trusts that they are for everyone else, but when it comes to herself she has so many doubts. It just breaks my heart, especially because of how deeply I have known the same struggle in my own life. I wish I had the words to move her heart. She needs healing, and more than anything I want that for her.
The cut of doubt is so deep. But when the struggle is great, God’s healing is all the greater.
I would love to win this book! I’v always been a worrier and a doubter but am working on getting better. I’m praying now for situations in my son’s lives and am trying to have faith that God is working it out for His good.
Blessings,
Janet
gatorgirl66@hotmail.com
Wow, thanks for the blog. It brought tears to my eyes. So many times I think I have to do things on my own, and I actually have pride issues about it. Then when I fall short I feel so ashamed. God wants me to rely on Him. To know He has a plan for me!
I have to admit that I very often do not read the daily readings. This morning I was just going to skim over it but as I read more I realized that there was a different point being presented than what I thought. We are missionaries and have been since 1980 so because of my husbands age we are retiring in a year but we will be leaving Jan. 3rd 2012 to go home for home assignment. All my life I have grown up with not feeling that I meet up or an capable so I found myself being more drawn in to know what Renee has to say in her book. I believe that the Lord is trying to speak to me but I am finding it so hard as I have lived with these doubts for so many years.
Hello. I’m struggling with this issue right now. In my prayer time this morning, I read about God as healer. I have trouble trusting God to heal me. I’m afraid to ask in case He doesn’t come through in the way that I want. I think this is interesting bc I trust God to keep his other promises but for some reason I am struggling in this area. Why do I think this is out of God’s reach? I pray that God takes away my unbelief so I can believe him in this area. Thank you for your devotional- it was helpful today.
I am so thankful that God led me to this blog today. I myself struggle with allowing him to work things out in his timing and trusting him. I struggle with holding the issues on my shoulders and not allowing him to have them. Recently I prayed for my 17 yr old son who had to go before the judge again for some issues and was so worried he would be sent to jail this time, I prayed for my son, for the judge, and all, but didn’t let go and I realized this after God answered my prayer and my son was allowed more time to pay fines, and do his community service, it was like a weight was lifted off my shoulders and I could breathe again. Why oh why did I not trust him to take care of it (cause he did) and not burden myself ….Oh ye of little faith….yes I so strive to be like Abraham and trust God with my son’s life so much so that I would be willing to sacrifice as Abraham did if God asked that of me. I know that God forgives me of my lack of faith, I pray too that my faith will grow, and I can show others the true meaning of faith in God like the ram.
Trusting God with my children is one of my biggest challenges. It surprises me sometimes that I am still learning to trust God … but I’m so glad He keeps teaching me more of Him. I hope I continue to learn until the day I meet Him face to face. I’m rejoicing with you at God’s goodness to your son.
I know God loves me but with so much self doubt, guilt, shame and feeling like I’m just not worthy of His love – it’s sometimes hard not to beat myself up. Can’t tell you how bad I need this book.
Glynnis,
Thanks for this reminder.
I’m finding that God often uses crisis situations in my life to pull me back to childhood fears and insecurities that were left unresolved.
He wants to anchor me in the security of His love ONCE AND FOR ALL, so that the matter is settled in my soul.
Just like in the fairy tale, He does weave precious gold from the straw of my life’s disappointments.
Amen! Well said.
I thought I was doing pretty good in the area of trusting God. And then the test… my husband walked out leaving me and our two teenage sons. I lost my footing and experienced every emotion imaginable and then some. I couldn’t sense God anywhere, [my focus was fogged] and then a devotion would speak directly to my pain. I have struggled and I’m still struggling but at a lesser degree. I want to trust God too, like Abraham. These devotionals, along with some others have truly helped me. I am much more emotionally balanced. And now it’s the oldest teenage son, he is sinking. I have relinquished him to God to minister to his hurt and pain. Please pray for him (us). I believe a Ram is on the way.
Jeanette – I can’t imagine your pain. Although I do know the pain of betrayal, and so does our Jesus. I’m praying for God to heal your broken heart and to step in and take over when you are weak. And I’m praying for some miracles that will leave you breathless with God’s love and favor for you and your sons. Thank you for posting a comment today, dear one.
Dear Glynnis,
Thank you so much for the devotion this morning! I can’t tell you how it has touched my hear! It was exactly what I needed to be reminded of! See, having grown up in an abusive house, I have done nothing but believed satan’s lies for years. I was never good enough, unloveable and worst of all I was told on a daily basis that I was just a bog mistake! I would have been aborted if my mom had the money. Now these were all lies he used to abuse me but they have stuck in my head ever since. I was so angry with God not able to underhand why I had to grow up that way and never believing that I could ever be loved by Him. I recently gavey life over to Christ and am learning more and more each day. But the lies still haunt me. I want a faith like Abraham but not sure that I can ever get there. So I’m trying, taking it one day at a time.
Thank you so much for all you do! You truly are a blessing!
Cari – hearing your story makes me want to go hunt people down and shake them silly. But God is our defender and our redeemer, He will restore what Satan meant for evil. I’m praying God’s truth penetrates deep into your soul about your worth. Know that our value is never based on what we do, but on who we are – a beloved, chosen, claimed daughter of the King. Rest in that truth today, dear sister.
Glynnis, What a powerful devotion! It kindled a fire in me today. Thank you, thank you, thank you! Oh to have that kind of faith…
I’m so glad God gave us His Word and each other. May the Lord bless you today.
Glynnis, thank you for your beautiful devotion in the Encouragement for Today email as well as your wonderful blog post here too. I wept as I read the email and then again as I read the blog post today. I know this is all true hence the tears.
God will and does provide everything that we need when we need it and I needed to hear just this message today.
Thank you for blessing all of us with your wonderful writing talent that came from the Good Lord.
Hang in there, sister. We need to keep reminding each other that God has not forgotten us. His timing is perfect. Our job is to trust. I’m so glad you visited my blog today.
thank you for this devotion! your messages are always used by God to speak to me and i thank you for your obedience to Him!
I thought that your devotional was really good! I have been unemployed for some time and face doubts frequently.
Thank you Martha. I’m praying for God’s intervention in your situation. I know how easy it is to give in to despair.
Thank you so much for your encouragement through this blog! We all can use some!
Thanks again for your ministry & I would love to win the book as well.
Janet
jwood@jordanagency.com
Thank you for sharing your heart Glynnis, it is obviously what so many of us need to read/hear at the moment. At a big time low with my faith, my self belief and self worth, your message has given me hope again. Thank you.
xx
I am like the unknown person who said ” I know God will invite me to his banquet but I don’t think he would ever ask me to lunch”. I too have a hard time grasping that God loves me, little ole me, enought to want to have lunch with me and ask me how things are going, and that he wants me to ask him about himself as well. Your words today really spoke to me and gave me comfort knowing that even God’s speakers and writers at Proverbs 31 ministries have self-doubt.
I so appreciate you words “It’s not that I doubt God CAN do anything He wants to do. I doubt He’ll want to do it for me.”
Thank you for your honesty. It is such an encouragement to the rest of us.
Glynnis!! Thanks for the opportunity to have a copy of A Confident Heart! I’m ready to win!
I had been reading the story of Abraham! Thanks so much for sharing. One of the things Abraham did right that I want to be able to do is recognize the ram as God’s provision and not a distraction. Do you know what I mean? I could imagine (only with my GREATEST imagination) myself hearing from the Lord to sacrifice my son, having the courage to do it, but then I see myself asking, “Why is that ram over there in the bush when I’m trying to do what the Lord told me?” I want to be so strong in my faith, attuned to the Holy Spirit and confident in my heart that even when God begins to do a new thing or make a shift that I would shift.
Very cool insight Tiffany. Thank you for sharing it.
I love the image of the ram making the same journey up the other side of the mountian. It is so hard in times of suffering or trial to see beyond our circumstances. Abraham’s faith is a great reminder for us all. Thanks for sharing.
Glynnis,
Long story short…if transparency is really what we are after…then I just want to say that I would love a copy of that book. God has just called me to write my first book (and maybe last…who knows), and a couple of weeks ago now I read your excerpt in Marybeth Whalen’s book about how to become a writer. I smiled to myself when I realized that we only live across town from each other and I would love a chance to meet with you if you would ever be up for it. I am a women’s ministry leader at Lincoln Heights Christian Church in Phoenix and have struggled with severe mental illness after experiencing a traumatic event in 2006. I continue to pray for healing and will continue to do so until He tells me “no.” But in the meantime, I am simply putting one foot in front of the other and hoping to catch a glimpse of the ram walking up the other side. It is hard! I thank God that He led me to your devotional today and that I chose (by His prompting) to take it a step further and come all the way to your site. Thank you for your ministry and for allowing God to use you to speak into women’s lives. God bless!
Meredith Colbrunn
I would like to thank God for the way He has used you to touch so many of us thru Proverbs 31. Your prayer to let Him intervene is just what I needed a new way to pray. I’ve always liked the story of Abraham bringing his son as the sacrifice but you put it in another perspective for me “someone is walking on the other side step for step” Yes, I will not give up His timing is perfect! God bless.
Oh my! I so needed this devotion today. It brought tears to my eyes, too. God told me over 10 years ago after my husband of 25 years left me for another woman that he was doing a new thing in my life (Isaiah 43:18-19). Well, here I am 11 years later and I am still alone, still lonely, still waiting. Yes, I truly have faith that God can send a Godly man into my life. But, will he? My ex was abusive to me, emotionally, mentally, verbally, and at times physically. When I found out I was pregnant with our third child, he wanted me to have an abortion. I couldn’t do that. He didn’t speak to me for almost 3 weeks. That baby ended up being the little girl I had so prayed for. So fast forward to two weeks ago when he told her in a very unkind manner that she had put on quite a bit of weight. This was 4 days before my son’s wedding. At the wedding, he wouldn’t even speak to her because she had reacted in anger to his unkind remark. But he would speak to other people who he barely knew. She is so hurt. She has little or no self confidence. And her dad rejected her “as she is.” He wants her to be this perfect looking daughter for him, eye candy for him and everybody on the outside to see, not caring about the person she really is.
Gr-r-r-r-r-r-r-r!
I just searched women’s daily devotionals and found your blog. I am so happy that I did! I especially liked your blog about attitude. I’ve found that I struggle with this so much. Just recently I’ve realized how my attitude impacts everyone else in the house. So, it is really in my hands to create the loving home environment my family needs. Thank you!!
“It’s not that I doubt God CAN do anything He wants to do. I doubt He’ll want to do it for me” You don’t know me, but you heard my cry and felt my pain.
When I read today’s devotion “A Ram Is On The Way”, my soul cried out Hallelujah! My spirit leaped with joy. I was conversing with my best friend of 35 years before I read today’s devotion and it was like you were listening in on my conversation and you wrote this devotion just for me. To God be the Glory!
Have to agree with Kathleen, this devotion was in my maibox all day but it wasn’t until late in the afternoon when I was getting frustrated over a project I was assigned that seemed hopeless when I finally opened it and read it. Made me realize I will get through this project and move on to another one with God’s help.
Thank you, all day in my head and heart I am saying “a ram is on the way”.
Sorry for previous typos its my first time here ever.
I have been unemployed since 6/08 and have not found fulltime permanent employment. One thing that hit home for me I believe God can do anything but not for me. I have often prayed and see others get blessed but not me. I can honestly admit publicly that this an area of weakness for me , and has cause my faith to waver many times.
We have been through the wringer since my husband lost his “good” job three years ago. Sold our house, car, much of our stuff. So much change … for a girl who doesn’t like change… and my sweet daughter who is much like me.
God gave me a business right about the same time that would cover our needs… if only I wasn’t so afraid to promote it and build it. Time and again He has brought business, and I do my level best… but then I start thinking how I can’t possibly be good enough, smart enough, deserving enough.
I am ready for God to help me shake loose the shackles of growing up as I did, learning the lies instead of truth. I MUST… God has a mission for me– to bless other women with the same clear freedom He wants me to embrace. I MUST… because my daughter needs to see that what mom battles doesn’t have to be such a big battle, and it CAN be fought to victory!
I have been on a spiritual journey since early March. I am seeing a counselor and have been since March 1. I had so many lies buried so deep within me that it was hard to believe that “God delights in me”. On March 18, 2011, this counselor said that to me and quoted scripture to me. I felt like I was knocked back up against a wall and God filled me with this thought, wow HE delights in ME? Yes, he does. Since that time, I have had quite a struggle that my family and many friends would never understand or even believe. I have taken down the walls of my heart and let God’s Light shine through me. God has blessed me and my entire family unbelieveably. It is amazing what God wants to do for us and what He desires for us and our life. Thanks for this devotion today, I really need to be reminded of this daily. God Bless!!
Sister – God’s truth has power! When we fill our hearts and minds with it, there is no room for lies. I’m rejoicing that you finally finding freedom from those lies. You are chosen, cherished, pursued and longed for.
This was a great article – I agree it is one we all struggle with. I am 57 and I still struggle with how to really trust God. I have always gone to church but that does not mean I have the relationship with God I should have for Faith He will do and Trust that He will!!!
Thanks for the article.
I want to increase my faith and not waiver. I want to completely trust and not rely on my own power.
My faith has not been the best these last 4 months, but I’m trusting in the Lord to fix all the problems and move these mountains. Last night after studying the Word and praying I have finally turned it over to God, knowing that all is going to be alright. Then today when I read “A Ram is on the way” I knew that this message was for me. It amazes me how God works. Thank you so very much. I am 55 years old and I know that God still has a great plan for my life. Thank you and pray for me. God Bless you.
Thank you for the devotion today. I struggle daily with having the faith I need. I’ve asked God many times if He was there. I believe it is the prayers of my friends that get me through each day.
Hi, I found your blog today when I googled “feeling trapped God help me” and the first hit was your blog post from 4 June, which I read then turned to Psalm 107, I think I’m all of those “trapped” issues all in one!! So then I hit your home button and here we are at today’s blog. I’ve been in my current situation for a bit and God just got me out of the complaining, discouraged phase; I finally just asked Him to change my heart attitude because it was spilling out into my family relationships; and He did. I think God is teaching me to totally trust Him (well I’m pretty sure of it!) and though I KNOW God will do what He has promised, He is telling me to WAIT and I’m not very good with my time versus God’s time.
I don’t really have a good group of prayer sisters here in the USA (they are all in another country); so I think I could really use some godly female encouragement, which is why I’m posting for a chance to win the book “A Confident Heart”.
Thank you.
I praise God for your beautiful heart, beautiful sister in Christ.
My Bible reading for today was Psalm 78 and the second part of v. 32 really caught my spirit: “In spite of His many wonders; they did not believe.” Oh how there are so many times that I go through this cycle of belief/unbelief; knowing God is and has been faithful in my head but not feeling it in my heart during times of uncertainty.
I just started going through one of those seasons where I feel discouraged regarding God’s promises. It doesn’t make any logical sense given all that God has done in my life but the stresses of life (a sick toddler for almost 2 months now, financial uncertainity, struggles in my marriage) have me weighed down and I find myself sinking deeper into the (false) mentality that God is not concerned with me or with meeting my needs right now i.e. I am not worthy of it.
I have felt led to read Renee’s book since I got back from SHE Speaks and it makes sense now that this season of doubt has crept up on me (it wasn’t expected at all but I believe God is taking me through this to “help my unbelief”). I wholeheartedly believe God will make a way for me to have it as He has in the past with the encouragement needed for that particular season.
Jesus love and blessings.
I love the applications you have been using to stamp out negative thoughts, and immediately I replace them with focus on God and His greatness. So why then am I so NOT confident? Such a struggle to be that good wife, mom, and friend. We just moved to a new small town, I have no friends here, and it isn’t easy to make new friends. I would love to read her new book, as I’m seeking insight in ways to break this barrier in my life. Money is tight right now, moving is expensive, so I’m not able to purchase the book. Thanks for reading my post.
I recently did Renee’s 7 Day Doubt Diet and realized just how low my self-confidence is. I would love to read the entire book! It seems like I get to a place where I am really relying on God and feeling His presence, and then I get lazy or too relaxed or something and before I know it, I am out of touch with Him and everything in my life reflects that. I long to reach a point in my life where trusting Him is just second nature (shouldn’t that be easy?? I mean, really!!) but I have a feeling that this is going to be an ongoing struggle. Hopefully as time goes on I will learn from my past mistakes and grow closer to Him every day!
Thank you!
Thank you so much for your devotion today. It really spoke to my heart and encouraged me. I’ll be waiting for “the ram that is on the way”, trusting and believing in my God Who provides.
This was EXACTLY what I needed to read today! Thank you for reminding me that God is looking for me to be faithful and that He wants to bless those who trust Him.
I can definitely relate to what you are talking about! God is dealing with me on my doubts and fears, and I am just realizing, as you said, that it is not me doubting that God can but that He will for me! In a way, it is still doubting that God can, and I hate to do that! God has brought my family and I through some tough financial situations lately, and I must admit that I had doubt during it. However, I can use these experiences to refer to whenever I feel like He won’t do it for me! I pray that we can continue to get deeper in God and ditch those doubts! Thanks for your honesty and sharing!
Wow.
Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts about Abraham’s faith.
I love that Abraham had no idea what God was going to do… He only knew that God had made him a promise, and then God asked him to give up Isaac.
How could that be? To his understanding, those two contradicted one another. I think of him as he cut the wood himself. Then I picture him, calling to his servants and his son, and leaving immediately for that trip. I think about the days-long journey. Each step was one of faith. I think about the thoughts going through his heart. IMPOSSIBLE! he must have cried out in his mind.
Still, he carried the fire and the knife, and told the servants, “Wait here. WE will return.”
He didn’t know how. He didn’t know when. He only knew what he’d been told to do… and the impossibility that loomed before him. Yet, he went. And as you noted, for every step Abraham took, the ram was taking a similar step.
This thought makes my heart tremble. What a message of hope!
Thank you so much for this devotion today. I’ve spent way too much time worrying over so many things in life. I need to trust in the Lord for all my needs and stop worrying over so many things that I can’t control anyways.
I was going through a bad day today, I get my encouragement of God i hadn’t read it in a very long time. Me and my husband have gone threw alot together alcoholism, adultery, and greed so I left. Well being away from my husband I realized how much i loved him. So i tried returning home an he had someone else n our home of 15 years.so I wentbac to Austin TX my home. So I found a great church I started attending an I can say i attended faithfully myheart missed my husbanb I started praying for my daughters. And my husband . Well the church i have attended has been a blessing my husband is back an my relationship with him is good but I still have alot of selfdoubt an I feel ur book will help me alot with my self.I want to b like Abraham where he just loved an did what God ask.Well thaank you an God bless
I know ur book well b an assett to me.
Hey Glynnis,
I have a hard time having faith to. While reading Wendy Bights book on the chapter about prayer chapter 10 I think that is the right one . she explained the one sentence pray for instance If you are sad you can say this is the day the Lord hath Made which is my favorite song. I have decided to say this saying when I need faith. I know while I am reading Renees book I will find lots more information to bring me Closer to God. I hope I win this book for an 18 year old who has had a hard life . she is my Sons Girl friend. I did not want her to move in but I had so many thoughts on what if God sent her to me to lear what it was to be a true christain with confidence and forgiveness. I do whant to say they sleep in seperate Rooms . I just could not say no to her when she need a place to stay. She comes from a broken family and her family has given up on her. She has adhd and is very active I think she just needs to know that she is loved. I want her to know she is loved by me. I hope to help her get Closer to God but I need all of you gals help . You have helped me so much. I thank God for you every day
Howdy Glynnis,
Read the devotional today and it has hit home about not having the faith that Abraham has. I have a hard time with doubt and keep asking God to help me. Many tell me I need to forgive myself and that would help free me up from alot so I keep asking God to give me the strength to keep going since the difficulties that have arose throughout the summer and seem to keep hitting with a left and right. Feel like there isn’t another thing I can handle. Proverbs 31 keeps hitting home everyday with a new devotional and the main thing is to trust in GOD hard concept to do when you want to everyting to be okay right now. Worrying gets us no where except emotionally drained each day. The struggles need to stop.
Although my mind and heart know you should never question the Lord and his wisdom, I have been unable to move past the confusion and pain of the year long rape of my 12 yr old daughter by my fiance. I have a mental illness and he used my own medications to manipulate me to do these horrific things. I thought God was supposed to prottecr the innocent child. Why wouldn’t he protect my daughter, when she needed it the most….when I couldn’t be there for her? Your post today helped a little but I have a long way to go before understanding all of this.
*protect
Several years ago, I and my two beautiful little girls were kicked out of our home by my then husband. As horrible as that was for us at three o’clock in the morning I felt that the Lord was finally released from this abusive marriage. I went to live with my mom for awhile. God is so faithful. After the divorce the Lord provided us with a home that was with-in my small budget, clothing was given to us by various unknown donners, and the one thing that blew my socks off and raised my faith sky high: I need a car I prayed to the Lord, and told absolutely NO-ONE. The very next day the Pastor of the church I was attending came to me and asked me if I needed a car. Someone had donated a car to the church. I cried and thanked the Lord over and over again. I have told this story many timed over to the praise and glory of Jesus Christ.
Fast forward 25 years. I have married a Christian man, helped raise six children who are grown and have homes of their own. The tragic thing is that we are separated (my husband and I )and I am feeling very alone, and scared. Some days I don’t even want to live, yet God sweetly speaks “I love you, you are my child.” I have known the faithfulness of God. I know no other so faithful and true. I will trust in Him.
I want to thank you for your words of encouragement. I have been under “attack” by a powerful coworker lately. I love my job but this situation is causing me so much angst. Your words reminded me to TRUST that HE will see me through. I need to be honest, be patient and BELIEVE that he will see me through this storm. Thanks you so much for being so “real” in what you share with us.
Thank you for writing this. I am one of those people who needed to read your devotion today. Doubts have been ringing in my ears like pesky mosquitos I keep getting reminders from God that I just need to trust him. Your blog and devotion is yet another reminder, so thank you for writing.
Wow, how appropriate and needful your devotion was for me today! I am struggling – really struggling – with an “event” in my life right now that currently hit the year mark this summer. I am so weary of dealing with it. Thank you for these sweet reminders today! I very much needed them! And would love to read Renee’s book…it’s on my list of book to purchase and read.:) Thanks for your transparency today. You were a blessing!
Enjoyed your devotional today. I can so relate!
Thank you for your beautiful devotional; I’d love to win this book as I really need some help with self-doubt. It never used to be an issue for me, but somehow doubt has become very paralyzing for me.
Hey! This is the second contest I have entered to win this book, God must really really think I need to read it! Glynnis, I subscribe to proverbs 31 devotionals and you wrote one a while back about doing good, isn’t always what’s best for your family. That really spoke to me, I have trouble with the word “no” and I printed and posted that devotional to remind me that other women struggle as I do and i always need to so what is best for my boys. (3 yrs and 16 months)
Ginny
Being a single mom of 2 teens…I fight doubt n negativity every day. I am the one who has/leads the “spiritual” life between us parents. It has been a constant battle since the divorce in 2003 of leading the kids down the right path. It has taken many years to just get to the point of praying them to God and putting my trust that they will make the correct decisions when at their dad’s house. I feel like my prayer life is filled with binding Satan and ridding my head with thoughts of unworthiness, doubtfulness, aloneness, and unloveableness…just to name a few. Thanks for your encouragement today. It shined light in the dark.
I can’t wait to start reading the book and doing the online bible study….I doubt myself in most everything…..Lisa
As I read blogs and posts from facebook from many christian women including Proverbs 31, Joyce Meyer, and Beth Moore, I find that I am not alone. Sometimes I feel since I am reaching my mid life I am struggling with my confidence. (I will be 45 on Thursday, Sept 1st.) There are so many resources available, but one never knows what will help them. I feel that Renee has many experiences that may be similar to mine. Her book could be my answer to a “Confident Heart”. Thank you for sharing your encouraging words and the the generous give away of 2 books to 2 of your followers. God bless!
Thank you so much for this today! I really needed to know that I am not the only person struggling with stuff! I am definitely going to save your blogsite! I am so grateful that a good friend sent me your link!
This post blessed me very much. I love your transparency. I am right in the middle of a situation that I know God is calling me to trust Him. But, I too am plagued with all kinds of self doubt. I would love to read this book. It sounds like just what I need for this time in my life.
I cant wait to read through this. I have a few things going on right now and with hubby in Korea it’s just me and the kids. Sometimes I feel I just can’t do it all.
I believe we all need to be reminded and reassured of our confidence.
Trust is one thing I need to work on too. I know He can,but will He? I have to learn to leave things in His hands.
Hi, Thanks for this today as I am going through tough times with a sick husband right now and just today God spoke to me to trust Him and then I read your message and it spoke so clearly to my heart. Thank You and God Bless
Good evening Glynnis……I have received what God had for me too read and receive. However I have been allowing my flesh to get in the way meaning I have faith in Him but like today I became so overwhelmed that I lost faith in God for a second, but I am glad for my friend Rose because she was able to bring me back. I have rededicated my life nack to Jesus Christ and I am ever so happy that I made the conscious decision to do just that cause thats the best decision I have evr made
I am goin to continue to have faith in Him and not doubt anything He can do because sometimes when things are giving to me so easily from Him I don’t really know how it is to really appreciate it but when He have me going through some stuff meaning going through the storm then come’s the sun that’s when I say “wow Lord I thank You so much for this blessing that You have allowed me to Have” gthen I tell somebody that’s going through the same or maybe a similar situation and when I tell them that God got me through it and He will do the same for you but first you are going to go through some stuff or maybe your not. Because right now I don’t know if God wants me to ove. am I going to ever get my home health aid license or is my fiance’ going to receive a truck driving job and then we would degfinately be able to move and afford the rent but I am on public assistance and its hard but I a also a full time stgudent in college and God’s willing I’ll be taking the entrance exam to get into the college nursing program. And I just want so much more for myself and my children and sometime waiting patiently in like WOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!! LORD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! but guess what??????? I am continuing to pray and read His Word not as much as I should but I am reading it, however I can’t continue to ggo through this walk with God and not have a confident heart knowing that He has me and He’s not going to allow me to fall too hard and if He do let me fall I’m going to get back up and brush myself off and keep moving. He has allowed me to sgtart a women’s bookclub “Sista’s In Christ” and I know the women would really benefit from this book but most of all I know that I will 
So Glynnis I am glad gthat I read today’s devotion tonite and I pray that all is well with you and your family I just love Proverb’s 31& Encouragement Cafe (I think that’s the name), also I enjoy reading you ladies blog’s and last night I enrolled into Melissa’s Bible Study and it is going to be on Hebrews I think that’s Melissa (smile) and you ladies just have such a kind and sweet spirit and I believe that God is going to allow me to meegt you ladies one weekend or maybe week at a Proverb’s 31 Women’s Retreat 
good night and God bless!!!!!!!!!!
Your devotion today was so timely. I have been learning so much about my relationship with the Lord. He has been revealing a lot about my issues with trusting Him lately. I can’t wait to read this book!
I want so badly to read Renee’s book!! Thank you, Glynnis for this opportunity to win a copy!!
Many blessings,
Lisa
doubt can be one of the hardest things to overcome..thank you for sharing!
Glynnis, your devotional and this blog post spoke to me…you could have taken the words right out of my mouth “It’s not that I doubt God CAN do anything He wants to do. I doubt He’ll want to do it for me.” This is a recurring thought for me.
Thank you so much for this!! I’ve been standing for my marriage for the last yr. My husband has filled for a divorce but I have faith & believe in the promise from God that the divorce will never happen. I’ve been convicted to stand since this started but has been the most torturous ordeal I’ve ever experienced. This devotional really touched me cause last night while crying out to God, was saying how even though I can’t see the other side of the mountain, im still gonna climb it, not joyfully, but out of obedience to my Lord and that I’m trusting that He is working on the other side and will intervene according to his time. This devotional was like it was written just for me and oh, how I praise and thank my Daddy for the in my face reassurance! Thank you so much!
am a male but ur blogs ” the ram is on the way. Is a blessin to my soul, i want to say thanks for enriching my soul. My question is based on anger and depression with hatred, and how it affects our relationship. I had an illustration on how a security man guiding 300 mad poeple. When he was asked about is own security, he said wit confidence that he is secured because he knew mad people act isolation, not together. Pls, ur reply has a role to play to address to help a friend in need. Thanks.
Welcome, brother. I’m not sure I would agree with the security guard. Mad people together make up a mob. And mobs can cause riots. Anywhere you have anger and someone feeling oppressed, there is a danger of violence. Personally, I think anger kills relationships. People might stay together, but it’s hard to trust an angry person. I hope that helps. Blessings.
This is just what I needed to hear to start my day. I have been struggling so much with debt right now to the point where I can’t even afford groceries. I have been crying myself to sleep every night for months now. Sometimes I feel a bit better but most times my faith has completely been broken. My sister sent me this to read this morning and I now realize that crying won’t help and I need to change the way I pray. I know a breakthrough is coming and I pray everyday for the patience to wait for it. God bless you Glynnis for spreading His word and helping renew our faith.
Sister – I’m so saddened by your situation. I’m joining you right now in prayer for God’s divine intervention! Also, I wrote a book on working at home. I don’t know if you’d be interested in making any extra money from home, but if you are, please send me a personal email and I’ll send you the book for free. editor@proverbs31.org. Praying for you.
This devotion was the answer to an “open – ended” prayer request that I made of God. I too have realized my own lack of faith in some areas and my ease in doubting God’s desire to do something for me; never His ability to do it. Thank you a million times over for sharing and helping me grow in my faith.
I’ve watched God pull me thru one thing and another. Here lately something is changing. I am restless. can’t focus. can’t sleep. Not organized. I have always been a leader and found organization out of chaos. but I can’t even find a devotional that sticks out. This isn’t me.
The one passage that always calms me down so that I listen is Psalm 91.
Something is happening in my world and yours. We better listen up.
Just last night my husbands and I of 14 years after another ugly fight, and I’m ashamed to admit, within ear shot of our two elementary age children. Honestly, it happens too often. I worry more about the damage the words are doing to the kids than how my own heart is breaking. I know God’s timing perfect and He will resurrect our love for one another in the nic-of-time. I sometimes feel like Abraham must have felt trudging up that steep mountain, knowing death was imminent. I try to have his kind of faith in that even if my marriage is sacrificed to the point of death that the Lord will raise it from the dead. The Lord as promised blessings to me, my husband, and my children. I stand firm that those promises are not in error or meant only for someone else. They are for me. I believe dry bones can dance (Ezeikel 37)! Thanks for the Word this morning!!
Katie, I’m praying the Love of God fills your aching heart this morning. Satan knows we are weak after we’ve stumbled, so don’t allow his lies to beat you up. Today is a new day, and God is a redeemer. I’m praying God’s love fills you to overflowing, and that today you are a blessing to your husband and children. That is your potential! And God will give you the strength. Praying for you.
May the Lord bless you for this timely article! Of course seeing that the message in God’s True Word was wrote many years ago, makes it even more special that it calms our soul to each generation who search to serve our precious Jesus! I have a loved one who needs this teaching and encouragement so much, I NEED this message so much. Thank you with all of our hearts!
I am so lacking confidence after a move to a different state because of my husband career, not knowing anyone, missing my friends, my job at the church there, groups, etc…Plus the not knowing when are house will sell. I pray and am trusting God will answer and provide, but sometimes easier said then done. This is the one book I am needing and want to do a study with a group, but I haven’t found any ladies/mom groups in my area at any of the churches.
I love the things I have read in parts of this book. I haven’t been able to buy it yet, but am looking forward to getting it as soon as I can. I lead a women’s ministry that God has lead me into. God has been speaking the same things to this group of Women. It is exciting to see how God is speaking the same things to His body everywhere. I am looking to use this book as a study for our group. Thank you so much for your ministry and for your obedience to God in sharing what He is doing and has done in your lives. I pray that this ministry continue to be blessed
I have not been able to get this book, yet, but do so love what I am reading about it. After 27 years of marriage, my husband left me 2 years ago and then in May of this year actually divorced me. I am realizing that I have lost all confidence and not even sure of who I am any more. It feels as if my prayers go no where. I have 4 children, with an 18 year old daughter with Down Syndrome being the only one still here at home. I have got to get my self back for her sake if nothing else.
Thank you and all your wonderful friends for the devotions and blogs that you write. There are days that I’m not sure but that all that gets me through the day.
Blessings to you and all that you do.
I am a single mom and The Lord is bringing me through a season of discovering what are the lies deep down in my heart.. I want to build on the Rock and not put The Rock on top of the lies.
I read your “A ram in on the way” yesterday, and I could not help sharing/email it to all my friends! Thanks so much! — Angela Wang
WOW, a friend sent me your ‘Ram’ devotional…exactly what I needed during this most difficult road anyone could ever walk. I have not been feeling His presence AT ALL. The prayer at the end of the devotional says all I’m feeling and exactly what I need to pray step by step through this fiery trial!! Thank you!!
Thank You, Thank You, for your encouragement. In some of our Seasons we just need to encourage and focus that he is always there and we are all his masterpieces.
“It’s not that I doubt God CAN do anything He wants to do. I doubt He’ll want to do it for me.” This is a recurring thought for me. ( I took this from another comment and it just hit the button)
Thanks for the encouragement that ‘a ram is on the way’. I have a huge need in the next few weeks for ‘a ram’ for upcoming health decisions. Thanks for your words. Blessings.
I needed to hear this now because I have to trust God in a big way. I have to make a commitment to attend a writer’s conference for which I have received a partial scholarship before I have secured the rest of the money to attend. I have to push away negative thoughts and just believe, just trust that God has brought me this far and He will bring me through this. I have to trust that all will fall into place. I think it is the greatest lesson in trust I have ever known, and all of the ‘teaching’ that God has been doing up to this point has been training for me to lay down my fears and trust Him completely.
I really enjoyed your blog & I also enjoyed the devotional today. It’s encouraging to know that there are other ladies that are dealing with similar issues such as trusting God in our circumstances & to totally depend on Him. Thanks for encouraging us to know that God is able in all things!!
Would love to read your book!!
A much needed messaage today. Thank you.
Hi Glynnis,
I appreciate your honesty and your wrestling through trusting God in your family. Our biggest struggle the last few years has been in deciphering God’s leading in our ministry. I wish he would just write on the wall like he did in Daniel! Pray that we would see his leading clearly, would you? Our desire is to serve him, wherever he leads.
Jennifer Dougan
http://www.jenniferdougan.com
I’ll say simply that this is exactly the reminder I needed at this very moment. Thank you for being an obedient vessel
“It’s not that I doubt God CAN do anything He wants to do. I doubt He’ll want to do it for me.”
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My doubt isn’t so much that God WOULDN’T WANT to do for me, as it is that I’m not important enough or good enough for Him to even notice. I know better…but doubt still creeps in.