No one likes pain. In fact, we try to prevent it. Yet, pain is a fact of life. We all experience pain. No one is exempt.
I’m glad you stopped by today. Perhaps you’re here because you read my devotion today, When Your Mess Becomes Your Message. If so, I hope my brother’s story of victory inspired and encouraged you. I also hope you noticed we serve a God who can make the impossible possible. That goes for you too.
Maybe you came here because you want to break free from pain. You want the hurting to stop. I understand. (Read my story here) It may be that you’ve tried other ways to deal with your pain. You’re not alone.
Some turn to drugs or alcohol. Others become compulsive shoppers, gamblers or overeaters. Then there are those who inflict themselves with pain in order to numb the hurt within. Some give up and choose bitterness. They harden their hearts toward those who love them. All these methods are destructive. This you know. Yet something inside causes you to wonder, “Is there a way out? Will the pain ever go away? Can I be healed?”
The answer is a resounding, “Yes!” God is in the healing business.
Here are some truths you need to know, believe and meditate on.
- God is available to you.
- He loves you.
- God has not forgotten you.
- God sees beyond today.
- He is faithful.
- He is able.
- He hasn’t given up on you.
- There is purpose in your pain.
Pain is a tool that God uses for our good. He never wastes our pain.
Here’s what He can do with your pain:
- Show you more of Himself than you’ve yet seen
- Train you in righteousness
- Increase your faith and dependence on Him
- Allow others to see His sustaining grace as you trust his healing hand
- Conform you to Christ’s image
- Use you to bring comfort and inspiration to others. (Just as He’s done in my life and in my brother’s life.)
“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction so that we will be able to comfort those who are in any affliction with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.” (2 Cor. 1:3–4)
I’d love to pray for your needs today. Leave your prayer request in the comment section. Then, in keeping with the verse above, I invite you to pray for the person who posted before you.
I HAVE A GIVE AWAY!!
Today’s devotion was taken from our newly released devotional book, Encouragement for Today! If you were touched by my devotion, you’ll want to have your own copy. It contains 100 daily inspirations, writen by the Proverbs team, to encourage you, strengthen you and help you have a more intimate relaltionship with God.
To enter to win, write in the comment section “I need Encouragement for Today” I’ll post the winner on Thursday!
May each of you walk in peace today.
Shelly Lucas says
I cant sleep so I got up to read my bible as I am really stressed out right now and have been for many years even though I know and love our Lord. I read your blog as I just signed on with Encouragement for today. I dont think I can take it anymore, I have a daughter who is 29 going on 15 and has been an addict since about 14. She has an 8 year old son, my grandson and I take care of him most of the time. Her actions really affect all of us. Our family did an intervention a year ago and she is back to it and the behavior only worse. I have prayed for years and try to turn it over to God daily but the years of stress have caught up to me/ I’m loosing hope. Would you mind praying for me about this. Pray for me, her and my grandson please. I really wish God would intervene or give me more strength. Thank you, God knows all the details, thank you for sharing, shell
Kim C says
I know you were asking Micca for prayers, but I am joining you also! May the Lord provide you wisdom and direct steps in this matter. May you receive the gift of perfect peace in the midst of the storm. Philippians 4:6-8, 2 Timothy 1:7 and Proverbs 3:5-6 may be good for you to meditate on during this time of seeking direction and freedom from the anxiety of the circumstances. The enemy comes to kill, steal and destroy….but you know the one who brings life and life to the full. May you cling to Him and His Shield around you and your family.
Micca says
Thank you for your prayers, Kim
Jo says
Hi Shelly,
I too want to join in praying for you. I know how it feels to feel like you are drowning and I pray for you and your family that God will intervene and take over your situation and show and give only positive outcomes for all of you. God bless you and lets all keep the faith!
jannie says
well honey frist of all GOD love you, and your daughter and I know sometimes. its seems likes we all alone. but trust me GOD is right there with you. you just stand on god word, and trust him. he right in the fright with you. tell the devil he can’t have her. plea the blood of jesus over her , you and her son’ keep the faith. stay in the good race. you not alone
Penny says
Thank you, Micca. My teenaged daughter has chronic health problems. My husband has been unemployed for 4 months. He finally has a phone interview this morning. God’s will be done!
ps says
guess this was written for me today. last night about 11 found out that our adult son has a drug problem and another addiction. he is a believer and recently came back to God. i don’t want to walk this path but with God’s strength i will. i do know that God can do anything but just the same your devotional today was an encouragement to me. thank you for being God’s instrument of truth and hope for us.
Laura says
I have been struggling spiritually for a few years, and have been getting back on track with proverbs 31 each am. I continued on this am by clicking on miccas link, and copied down the truths about us through Christ which to me was just what I needed to read this am. I feel so much more strengthened and grounded and I guess my prayer request is that even in the midst of my day to day life, I can cast my cares on God. I truly have worried way too much and have tried to fix things on my own. But God has graciously led me back to the right path and I want to stay on that path. I would love for someone to pray for me today.
kathy says
Please pray that I find a job soon. I have an interview today, I am asking the Lord for confidence and articulation. Thank you.
Fran says
Plese pray for my nephew he had brain surgery… for a full recovery. His wife is keeping his family far away from him and not letting them know how he is doing and will not let his family contact him.
Melissa says
Hi Fran,
Just wanted to let you know I prayed for you and your family and for your nephew’s full recovery. I hope everything turns out okay for you and your family.
Sandy McFadden says
My youngest son committed suicide on October 13, 2011. We as a family sees the date approaching quickly. On the other side of this tragedy my youngest daughter and his sister is expecting a baby boy on October 3. I say beauty for ashes from our Lord. Pray for us as a family that we can rejoice in the birth of a new life, and not be overshadowed by the death of our beloved son and brother.
Teri says
My husband has been laid off for 2+ years, he has found a job on a contract basis with a company. Also recently we lost our car to repossession, it is extremely hard to understand why all this happened, but I know God can make my mess our message also. We are currently looking for a car, but with not much money down, cause we simply don’t have it, until he goes to work, it looks almost impossible. I know I serve a God of miracles, please pray for favor and wisdom in all this. Thanks so much!! Fran I am sorry to hear abour your nephew, but I will gladly pray for your family and his recovery. Thanks!!
L says
Hi Micca – I have been reading your devo’s from proverbs 31 for a long time. thank you for your encouraging words! Today’s devo on Your mess becomes your message, was so inspiring for me, I cried so much. My sister-in-law has been addicted for 13+ years to drugs and my husband has been drinking alcohol constantly on and off our whole marriage of 8 years. I know God is changing his heart and moving in his life and may be breaking him loose of the chains. can you please pray for them both because life is hard with these addictions but God is good and like you said He is in the restoration business. Lately i have been study and learning God’s grace and that is easing the pain of these issues as I give them grace and let God go to work instead of me trying to Force the Fix of my husband. Thanks for the prayers! blessings
Teri says
MIcca, Thank you for bearing your soul, I have als read you story and I was drawn to compassion for you. While my husband and I don’t have much, he and my kids and of course God is all we do really have. I can’t imagine what you went through, but as a wife, you amaze me!! Thank you so much for you words!
Dianne says
Please pray for my friend, Joyce, who has been struggling with an unknown cause of pain that has effected her whole being. A new doctor is bringing her hope with a new treatment and we pray for continued restoration of her health. Fran, i am praying for your nephew and your whole family as we trust God to being physical healing to him and relational healing to the family.
val says
My daughter will leave drug rehab on Saturday for sober living home. Please pray for her to surrender fully to God and focus on her recovery. Pray she will see God’s miraculous plan for her life! Pray for restoration to her 2 children and her family. Thank you!
CTW says
Micca- Thanks for your encouraging words and messages of hope-hope that only God can and does give through you and your testimony. I pray for my son who has had some alcohol and relationship issues. I’m not sure if his alcohol siutation is resolved but lately, I have not seen any evidences of it since he’s a 42 year old man who lives by himself. But i also have a concern for how (since his divorce of about 3 years ago) he has had several relationships and tends to get “deeply involved” in them. He’s in a relationship now which concerns me because I can see where he puts 100% into it and tends to “let other things go by the wayside.” Then, of course, there’s the MAJOR concern of it all in the fact that he refuses to get back into church and back into a relationship with God(even though he was raised with God in his life, attended Sunday School and church WITH me, etc). He seems to totally “discredit” church and that makes my heart so very heavy. So I’m asking for prayer to loose the chains of his heart and spirit, mind and soul that keep him from living the life God wants and has for him and “let go of everything ” that he allows to bind him up. He desperately needs a job and has needed one for 10 months. With the qualifications and resume that he has there’s no reason why he at 42 years of age cannot have a job by now and that also gives me deep concern(while he seems to be so layed back” about it). He is an attorney who graduated from Brown and Cornell University and has always had excellent jobs.
Thanks for allowing me to express these prayerful concerns as I continue to Trust Jesus for His Answers and your prayers. Thanks in advance for standing with me in prayer for my son.
Micca says
Lord, I pray for this mother’s heart that you would encourage it and strengthen. Help her to trust you in this situation with her son. I pray that you will help this man find his way. I pray against the enemy who has blinded him from truth. Give him eyes to see truth, turn from darkness, have his sins forgiven and to live a righteous life–job and all. Thank you for hearing and answering our prayers. Thank you for your great love towards us.
Renee says
Please pray that God will lead my husband, Ron, to a new job. He has been a good provider through the years, but he has been so unhappy for quite some time. I am praying specifically that God would bless him with an amazing job in these last 10 year’s of his career. Thank you, and God bless! (L — I am praying for your husband and sister-in-law. Alcoholism runs in my extended family, so I completely understand.)
Micca says
Dear Lord, You are our Provider. You can’t help but provide for us. It’s your Name. God, a man’s worth can become low when he’s out of work. Give Renee wisdom and sight to see when he’s down. Strengthen her to be Ron’s cheerleader. Help her to make him feel like a man–one she desires no matter the circumstances. And Lord, make a way for Ron. Provide a job so that he can continue to care for his family. Thank you for hearing and answering our prayers.
Janice says
Hi Micca,
Thank you for your devotion today. I would like you to pray for my adult son who has just gone through a divorce and is having a hard time. He has been looking for a job for the past year and still hasn’t found one. He hasn’t gone back to church since his wife left him and I just want him to know that Jesus can heal his hurt and restore him…Thank you for your prayers.
( I will pray for L above, for her husband and sister-in-law. I pray that God will move in both their lives and break these chains that bind them)
Melody Price says
Mica, I had a son who was involved in drugs. He spent 5 years in prison. Has been out of prison and straight for 7 years. I am proud of him. I have just been diagnosed with borderline personality disorder. I cut and am a very angry person. Having a very hard time as I lost my way with God. I need prayers and I am so glad a friend of mine (Beth Anderson) told me about this website. Praying for Janice’s son. Hope he finds his way to God also. Thank you all.
Micca says
Lord, balance the chemicals in Melody’s body that are causing this disorder. Touch and heal her body, soul and spirit. Thank you, Lord, that you have not forgotten her. You are aware of her needs and you are faithful. And that you are able to meet her needs and more. Be her provision. Keep her son on the right path. Bless this family with your abiding peace and joy.
Jackie says
Thanks, Micca…you are always a blessing! I love your posts.
I need prayers for healing of a painful issue…back, hip, legs….have had injections to no avail and need to know which to go now. Thanks.
Janice, I am praying for your son (and you)….God is in control! Blessings on you!
stephanie says
Please pray for continued healing and restoration for my marriage. I am dealing with infidelity but I believe God’s promise of complete restoration.
Lord, I just ask right now that you heal Janice’s son of all the hurt and use it for your glory. Send him the exact job that you have for him. I pray peace and joy over him right now in Jesus name.
Courtney says
Hi Micca! I love both of your post today. They are so inspiring and full of hope. I have a praise report/ prayer request. After a year, God blessed me with a job! I’m so happy to be able to finally help my husband. However, I have less time to read my devotions and bible. Pray that I stay in the word and make time for God. This morning I got up an hour early to read and my husband woke up late. He needed my help so he could get to work on time. After helping him, I had to get dressed! Satan will not win! I’m actually at lunch now reading!
Micca says
Stay strong, Courtney. Your relationship with God is your most important relationship. I used to think I was doing well to put “time with God” at the top of my priority list. Then God showed me my list should read, “God’s priorities” and I was to let him fill out the list. I don’t always stick to this and life gets out of wack-fast! The bible says, “Seek the kingdom first and all else will be given to you.” That’s an awesome promise!
Lord, I pray for Courtney to fix her eyes on you. To see you and draw near to you. Provide time for the two of you because everything she does (marriage, job, etc) flows from her relationship with you. Protect her from distraction that comes from the enemy. Keep Courtney in your steadfast love.
Courtney says
Amen! Thank you!
Sherri says
Lord thank you for helping Courtney find a job. Please be with her as she adjusts to her new schedule, and help her to find a special time that she can set aside to spend with you. Thank you Lord for Courtney’s desire to stay close to you. Please bless and keep her and her family. In Jesus name I pray….Amen
Courtney says
Amen, Sherri! Thank you!
Sherri says
I would like prayer for exactly what Micca shared about. Letting God turn my mess into my message. My husband was like your brother. He had a very big drinking problem that caused a lot of pain and problems for our family. It has been almost five years since God did for him what he couldn’t do for himself. After being hospitalised for 14 days with a whole mess of problems caused by the drinking he surrendered his life to the Lord and has been sober ever since then. He never misses church and every morning when he wakes up he spends time with God before he does anything else. God helped me through a lot of things while my husband was still drinking…he helped me to let go of my husband and the problems his drinking caused. He also helped me to look for the good things in my life and to be thankful….But now I think that I need prayer for a deeper healing inside of me….to be able to surrender all of the hurt. that I don’t think I realized was even there, so that I can be healed and my marriage fully restored. I hope I didn’t make this too long(: Lord I pray that you would continue to bring you healing and restoration to Stephanie’s marriage. Please be with her and her husband. Help them as they work through their problems Lord and thank you for Stephanie’s faith to trust you for complete restoration. Help their mess become their message to be able to reach out and share with other hurting couples about the hope and healing that you can bring out of our messes. In Jesus name I pray Amen.
Micca says
Lord, I lift Sherri to you. You know best how hurt can become deep rooted in our hearts. But the fact she is asking for healing is proof you are already working. Heal her from resentment and bitterness. Heal her from doubting her self-worth. Whisper in her ear that you love her beyond measure. You are faith and you have promised her good. God place people in Sherri’s life to help her on this journey of healing. Restore the lost years and return the joy of her salvation.
Sheala says
Hey Micca,
I can only request that you please pray for me. So many things are going on right now. Everytime I turn something over to God, something else pops up. I’m pregnant and can’t deal with any more problems. I really need some prayers.
Micca says
Lord, your daughter feels as if the world is on her shoulders. This is not your plan for her. God give her the courage to cast all her cares on you–because you care for her. Thank you God that you long to be her burden barrier. As Sheala lets go, as she cast her worries on you, carry the burden and give her the sweet peace she so desire. Place people in her life that can help her. Lord, help her to see that before she asked for prayer, you were already at work. Give her eyes to see your provision. And bless this baby growing within her. And in your perfect timing, place this blessing in her hands-whole and healthy. thank you that you hear and answer our prayers.
Sheala says
Lord i thank you for healing and saving Sherri’s husband. Sorry you had to get his attention that way. But you got his attention nonetheless. All things work for Good. Thank you God for being all powerful, and all knowing.
Guy Wolfe says
My wife and I are still struggling through the loss of our Baby Butterfly, Mia, last year to SIDS. Some days are better than others for her. Today, is one of the not-so-good ones. Might be why I found your post. Lena could use His strength and peace right now. Thank you for your faithfulness…and the prayers.
Sherri says
I am glad you found this post Guy..I am so sorry to hear about what happened. I know it must be a very hard struggle for you and your wife. I will be keeping both of you in my prayers. God please bless and keep Guy and Lena and be with them. Please help them to know how much you love them and bring them your comfort and healing. In Jesus name I pray, Amen
Micca says
Dear Guy, I’m so sorry for your loss. I know that kind of pain. It punches you in the stomach until you can’t breathe. I also know that God is faithful. He is close to the brokenhearted. I’m praying God gives you both peace and strength today.
There are stages we all go through when we lose someone we love. loss, shock, sorrow, acceptance, surrender and service.
This I know: God loves you both. He is faithful and He has promised you good. Keep trusting and keep leaning on each other.
Tracey says
I need Encouragement for Today
Annette says
I need encouragement for today! Thanks for doing this great giveaway! 🙂
Sasha Carroll says
I need encouragement for today!!! <
Chelsea says
“I need Encouragements for Today”!!
🙂
Julie S says
I need Encouragement for Today
Kim C says
Micca, thank you for today’s P31 devotion. My lifelong friend just buried her 20 year old son last week. Praying for his friends to receive the gospel message given at the funeral (by the father of the boy who died)….may they be the fruit and take hope in your brother’s story for themselves to find freedom and a purpose in their lives. Hugs to you!
Micca says
I’m standing with you in prayer. God is aware and working on their behalf. My heart goes out to them.
Jamie says
I need encouragement today! I’ve been on a healing journey with the Lord for three years now, and recently He’s taking me in a completely new direction! I know He’s leading & I trust Him, but I’m struggling with discouragement & self-doubt. I appreciate being able to find encouragement through this blog & the fellowship here…thank you!
Micca says
Hang in there, Jamie. God knows what He’s doing. He sees thousands of tiny pieces that fit together that you can’t see. A new direction often calls for new faith. He’s taking you higher! Take the journey no matter how difficult it seems. The view from the top will amaze you! God, continue to order Jamie’s steps. Give her the courage to follow hard after you.
Laura says
Micca,
Thank you for the encouragement that I really needed today. I have been struggling with serious health issues for over two years ~ severe pain and weakness and fatigue so severe that sometimes there are weeks that I have been unable to leave home, some days unable to leave the bed. I’ve been to specialists, through many tests, and tried different treatments without much success. I have a young child, and I have had a hard time not being angry and resentful at God about these problems because of all that I am missing out on in my child’s life. I just can’t imagine the good or purpose that could come from this. I pray constantly for a good attitude and for God to use this mess, but it’s so hard. Please pray for me and for God to use this mess for His message.
Lord, please be with this husband and wife who lost their precious baby. Comfort them as only You can, Lord. We know how hard this is. Bless them, and use this for Your glory, Lord.
Micca says
Hi Laura, I’m so sorry for your pain. I, too, have suffered for years with chronic fatigue and pain. My tests would also come back normal. I kept searching for answers. What I found is I have the Ebstien Virus. This is often associated with “Mono.” In most people it remains doormat. In a few, like myself, it reactivates whenever I’m tired, stressed or push myself too hard. Have your doc test you for this virus.
I stand in prayer with you. May the cause to your illness be revealed and healed!
Diana says
I need encouragement today! I am having a very difficult time getting “me” out of the picture and replacing it with God! My thoughts need to be on Him, and not my weaknesses. I am working through “A Confident Heart” and learning so much!
Lori says
“I need Encouragement for Today.”
Lisa says
Please pray for our 16 year old daughter. She has had a constant headache for almost a year. She knows all about pain!! Some days are better than others and she has had a lot of tests and seen a lot of doctors but no answers. I believe God has a plan and I believe He still heals! Thank you for your prayers.
Micca says
Lisa, I’ve prayed for your daughter today asking the Lord to reveal the cause and then touch and heal her body. God is still in the healing business so hang in there. And, yes, He has a plan and purpose for your sweet girl. It’s often through adversity that God directs our path according to His plan. Your daughter will one day be able to comfort others who are experience what she’s going through now. Keep trusting. God is working!
Cat says
I need encouragement for today.
jen says
“I need Encouragement for Today” struggling with balance with all I have to do and being pulled in a million directions.
Amy Kowicki says
Hey Micca! Wow! You bless my socks off girlie! I am so thankful for you and just pray God’s continued blessings and favor upon you and your family!!
I NEED ENCOURAGEMENT FOR TODAY!
I have sent the two oldest, Kelsea and Stephen to college. Momma passed away Valentines Day..I am working myself to death and loading my plate too full, just to keep my mind off things and stay busy, cause grieving hurts too much..I’m missing Momma and the kids like crazy.. I know and believe that God has a plan for this new season in my life, but I’m having trouble slowing down to find it. When I take the time to stop and read your blogs, I am always so blessed.. I think of your wonderful smile and how you showed me the love of Jesus when many turned away from Mike and I. You are an inspiration! Love you!
Love your sister in Christ!!
Amy Kowicki
Micca says
Hi Amy,
I’m so sorry to read about your mother’s passing. She was a wonderful woman–godly and wise. I know loss hurts. It takes time to heal and God is in the healing business! Lord, Thank you that no matter our need, hurting or lonely, you are our ever present help. You bring comfort and draw near to the broken-hearted. Comfort Amy today. May your abiding Presence real to her. And order her steps. Lead her down paths of righteousness and provide opportunities for her to serve.
Hugs.
Pamela says
I need encouragement today and every day Thanks
Betty says
I need encouragement for today. I also have a prayer request. I believe today cwas the day the Holy Spirit connected us. My son is in prison. My daughter was killed in a car wreck I year after I was born again in 1991. She was only 19 and she was brain dead. I do praise God that I was born again… because I did not want to live. I need to be healed of any thing that hinders my purpose for the kingdom and my son’s purpose. He loves God but the enemy tripped him up with drugs and women. I praise God for my blended family. I know I am gifted in many ways and I want to use all of my gifts, including writing. Please let me hear from you.
Blessings,
Micca says
Oh, Betty. My heart is saddened by your loss and suffering. You’re right, The enemy is out to tempt and destroy us all. I’m thankful that you are a woman of God and you put your trust in Him. I would suggest that you find a place to serve and jump in. You’ll know if it’s a good fit for you if you enjoy it. If not, it’s probably something God hasn’t called you to. He is gifted you to serve–so go for it! I pray as your son watches God work through you that your life will become a testimony to what God can do. Lord, I pray for this mother and her son. Bring healing to this family. Show yourself to this son. Develop a bad taste for drugs and his lifestyle. Strengthen him to stand against temptation. Teach how to walk with you. Turn his mess into a message that will one day encourage others.
Angela says
“I Need Encouragement for Today.” I’ve been in a bad marriage for many, many years. My husband has gambled, lied, had affairs, put us in debt. We lost our house and I’ve struggled every day for years with this and chronic illness. I have several conditions and now have tremors and other problems that doctors have been unable to diagnose for over a year. I need prayers and God’s guidance to know which direction I should take. Do I leave my husband, though I’m on disability, and trust that God will provide? I’m very confused. I know God has a plan for us all. I just wish I knew what it was. Please pray for me to find answers, peace, and happiness. God please comfort those who are struggling more than I. Give them comfort and strength to face their problems and surround them with your love and protection.
Micca says
Dear Lord, you are our Provider. I pray that you provide for this couple. Provide wisdom and direction. Provide healing from sickness. Provide conviction to this man and cause him to turn from a life of sin toward you. Provide strength and comfort. Provide courage to trust you in the midst of troubles. Provide protection. Send your angels to stand guard around them. Lord, provide healing of this marriage. We know You are able to make the impossible possible. We trust in you!
Kathy says
Please pray that God gives my daughter the wisdom and courage to leave her controlling boyfriend and to find a faith-filled, caring, loving person who deserves her. Also, please pray that God gives my husband the wisdom to make the correct financial decisions regarding our farm.
Kelly says
I need encouragement for today !! and everyday 🙂 Thank you for todays devotion. I struggle during the week with issues in trusting my husband. This causes great fear within me. This is my second marriage, the 5th for my husband. He is a non-believer. My first marriage was for 22 years (my children’s father) and he is a strong believer in God, so the fears that I live with now, are ones that didn’t exist in my marriage with my children’s father. I have been re-married for 7 years and the first 5 years were the most difficult. My husband has PTSD, depression (for which he takes medicine for) troubles processing anger and several other issues that are difficult for me to live with and be at peace. I wish that I could feel loving towards him. I have seen and felt God blessings in this marriage in many ways, it has come sooo far from where it was. The quality of our union has made many triumphs, communication is so much better, and I do thank God for all his works.
Marilyn A. Cruz says
Yes! I need a devotional…
Patty says
I would like to share part of my story with you as I am in need of major encouragement right now. In 2005 the Lord heard my humble cry for help with weight loss, and He helped me develop a love for working out and having a strict diet, with this being said i lost a huge amount of weight, never once did i boast to people, and I still don’t tell people the numbers on the scale, I always gave God the glory, I started walking and then running marathons, I would write scripture verses on the back of my medals, crossed the finish lines praising God.. enter 2010 working 3 jobs trying to keep up my crazy work out schedule because being insulin resistant is HARD on weight loss, taking care of an aunt with Alzheimer’s Disease she passed away, weight started increasing.. enter. HUGE back injury, kept pushing, ignoring the pain, now after 3 MRI’s 3 spinal shots, a huge back surgery in March.. all my weight has come back.. my legs won’t work right, and i wonder.. what did i do that God wants to test me so hard, WHY? where is he? why do I feel abandoned? and how do I completely surrender? I’m just wanting an answer and I keep studying His word, but my faith is weak and my hope feels lost, and I cry so hard everyday for the pain in my body and all that I lost, and all the weight I’ve gained.. I know compared to many my troubles seem trivial, but my mind it’s HUGE and I can’t cope well, Please pray for me, Please advise me thank you most sincerely 🙂 Patty
Leigh says
I need Encouragement for Today
Holly says
I definitely need Encouragement for Today.
Stephanie says
Micca, your devotional today is a divine message from God! My 22 year old son is addicted to drugs and his life is very out of control. We have been dealing with this since he was 16. He is homeless right now and struggling. About a year ago, God gave me a vision of a butterfly in a cocoon, so I know that God is working miracles in my son’s life and I stand on His promise. I recongnized that a butterfly must struggle to break out of the cocoon in order for his wings to be strong enough to fly, so my husband and I pray continually for our son to be set free from addiciton and try our very best to not enable him and to stay out of God’s way. Your message is the hope I needed for today. Knowing that your brother is living a full, productive life serving others and proclaiming Jesus gives me hope. Thank you!
Karen Ann Hancock says
I need encouragement as I am homebound and I have spina bifida so I am in pain everyday. Although on a good day I realize I should thankful that I can do what I can. When I am in such pain that seems to leave my thought and thoughts of why me. Although I realize that part is the probably the devil talking it is a hard fight when you hurt so much for so long. It is getting so old. I look towards the day he takes me home. But he hae to do it. Sob even if I don’t win your book. Please pray for me.
Tamara says
Micca,
Thank you for the wonderful devotional. This season of my life has been difficult because I do not understand what appears to be a dry season. I am still faithful that God is working everything out for my good and this devotional reminded me that He is able to do exceedingly and abundantly above all that I can ask or think. I remind myself that this season will someday be something that can encourage someone else.
Karen Christiansen says
Please pray for my health. I have had 7 operations in the last 3 years. An abcess in the colon started it all. I had 2 hernias operated on due to the operations? Now I have another hernia near the last operation I had a year ago, to stop a bleeding ulcer. My Dr. told me last week I shouldn’t have this new hernia operated on because I would be at risk due to the 7 other operations. I have pain off & on. I believe the Lord Jesus has brought me through all of this. He has blessed me with a wonderful husband that has helped through it all. He needs Jesus in his life. Please ask our Lord to heal me. I will appreciate your prayers very much. In Jesus’ Love, Karen
Jody Delahunty says
I need encouragement for today.
Jodi Cross says
I need Encouragement for Today
Meagan says
I need encouragement for today.
Jessica Devaney says
I can honestly say I need encouragement for today… and every day to come. I am dealing with the world swirling around me and praying I am standing on solid ground. Two years has done a lot to change some of the problems and yet also made some of them worse. While I can not even begin to know what is next with my husband who has made a choice to throw me away… or the fact that he wants us dead… Each day I wake up and breathe and just pray someone will say something nice to me… That somewhere in this world people care and that God will show them to me… And that I might finally stop running and find some peace and a place to call home.
Daizyree Baran says
I need Encouragement for Today
Daizy says
Micca,
Thank you so much for your wisdom-filled devotional. I am blessed when you wrote: “No matter what your bondage, surrendering it to Christ is the pathway to freedom.” I am actually in bondage right now. It’s a heart issue. I know that my relationship is not pleasing to God because I am yoking with an unbeliever. I find it really hard to let him go even though I know this is not God’s will for me. Please pray for me that I can fully surrender myself to God and be freed from such bondage. Indeed, the Bible is so true that our hearts are deceiving.
God bless you always.. 🙂
Mary T says
“I need Encouragement for Today!” And do I ever! Got home this evening and had to deal with the anger and of my former significant other…he was as vicious as ever and when I could no longer keep it all in, I lost it! Praying for forgiveness and peace!
Daizy says
I need Encouragement for Today
Some possible says
So there are a lot of physical challenges and blessings. I need to learn how to deal. I think- These things, we’ve lost. We are losing addictions, and ‘things we don’t need. Pray that there exists what we do need. That that shows up. Whatever will remain should physical things be taken.
Heidi says
I am the wife of an alcoholic and I am struggling with this issue. I want to know more.
I need Encouragement for Today.
Beverly Kelly says
I need encouragement for today!
Janet says
I need encouragement for today. My brother disconnected from me over 3 years ago. He had spent 20+ years in Scientology. I related to your story about your brother. It helps me to read stories of people who have experienced similar things. Then I don’t feel like I am the only one. My brother has lost his mind and is a felon. He has gone through a total personality change. Thanks for sharing your story. It brought me comfort.
Teri says
I need encouragement for today!!!! Thank you!!!
Tammy says
I need encouragement for today! Thank you and God bless!
Dot, TN says
I need encouragement for today!
Kristen says
I need encouragement for today!
CarrieC says
I need encouragement for today. That is all.
Rhonda says
I need encouragement for today…
My husband is self employed. He hasn’t been well since last January and earlier this month he had surgery. His improvement is very slow. Because of his poor health he hasn’t been able to work for several weeks. His income stopped but the bills keep coming! I work full time but can’t make enough to make ends meet. Please pray for healing for my husband and healing in our finances…
Kristy says
I need encouragement for today!
Ericka says
I need encouragement for today.
My husband has been doing a job for his supervisor. However they informed him that he is not qualified for the position. Even though he has been doing this position for 2 years. I’m trying to forgive my stepchildren for the mess they keep making. Everytime I forgive them they do something else. Please pray for my husband, finances and the stepchildren.
Christie Rice says
I need encouragement for today and everyday! Starting a new season and chapter of our lives in a new state and new church! Praying for strength and no fear! Whoop whoop, amen and thank you Lord! God bless!
Chelsea says
I need encouragement for today! 🙂 Thanks Micca!
Sandy D says
I need Encouragement for Today!!!
Heather Purvis says
One of my dearest friends chose to kill herself last week. I am really having a hard time reconciling this, as she was always the one who turned me back to truth and Christ himself when I had questions or doubts or just a wrong attitude. I would appreciate your prayers for her family, and for her friends who are mourning.
Oh, and did I mention I need Encouragement for Today?
God Bless you all…I love that a lot of you stop right where you are and pray for those in need here. Love that!
Jo says
My grandfather chose the same path years ago and my mother has never gotten over it. She has struggled so long with it. About a month ago at our church she was prayed over regarding her grief about this and she has started to show some improvements when this is brought up or its a special day related to him. Don’t give up and keep in the Word and if you have a church family don’t hesitate to lean on them for prayer and comfort. Keeping you in my prayers.
Laura says
I need encouragement for today!
Thanks Micca!
Tracey Peraud says
“I need encouragement for today”
Please pray for our family as I have been going through health issues. As a child of the most high God, my desire to hear his voice for direction is what I long for. As a home school mom if two teens this has been a difficult trial. Thank you for encouraging my heart.
Gina Breazeale says
Mica thank you so kindly for sharing your devotionals. My job requires me to clean about 14 in town buildings! Ranging from tax building to chancery court, and circuit court just to name a few.The job involves taking
inmates to work everyday. They are what you call on a work program. I pick 3 girls up everyday by 8 and return them back to jail after we finish work around 3 each day. Most days with these girls can be challenging in many ways. Many people ask me how can you do that? You see I feel like God wants me where I am at. So I use that to help those girls out by offering them God’s word! After Almost 1 year with one girl, she has made a 360 turnaround and has excepted Jesus into her heart! praise him! she can’t wait for each morning to get here so they can get your devotionals. I take no credit for anything!God has shown them how much he truly loves everyone. But not only when I am offering them godly encouragement I am telling myself! My moto I tell them. ” You Can’t GO Wrong Doing Right! ” So I need encouragement today! By reading your devotionals each day gives me hope to give those girls hope for a better future with our almighty father in it. I want them to know that don’t use him to have made a friend named Jesus in jail and when they get out take him with them and don’t leave God back in the jail! Thank you so much for listening to me, I pray God continues to move mountains in everyone’s lives! Love Gina
Jo says
Awesome!
Staci says
I need Encouragement for Today.
Kim J says
I need Encouragement for Today..my overwhelming chronic health issues have really gotten me down as of late. Thank you for todays devotional, I am going to copy the suggestions and keep them close by.
Jo says
I love your devotions. Thank you so much for them. I pray everyone on this page will feel Gods love and protection and that you are all blessed. Please say a pray for my family we are in a place in our marriage that I never thought was possible. Thank you all!
Shaletha Knox says
Thanks for the encouraging words and I ask that you keep me in your prayers for I have several unspoken prayer requests up before God…I sometimes find myself struggling with my faith and thinking that God has forgotten me…