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In the hustle and bustle of life, finding a moment of true rest can seem impossible, but God invites you to step into his presence and experience the profound peace that only he can provide. This devotional is your guide to embracing his invitation each and every day. With thoughtful reflections, carefully selected Scriptures, and heartfelt prayers, 365 Days of Resting in God's Presence will help you draw closer to God's heart. Rest in his goodness as his promises are illuminated. Connect deeply with him as you express your innermost thoughts and desires. Whether you are starting your day with the dawn or winding down in the evening, this devotional book encourages you to pause, breathe, and find solace in the unwavering love of God. Let each page lead you to a deeper sense of calm, joy, and spiritual renewal as you rest in his presence. Features: - High-grade faux leather provides durability and exquisite tactile appeal. - Heat debossing on faux leather darkens its color, giving the cover a two-tone appearance and creating indentation which shows off the intricate design and varied texture. - Metallic, pearl, or matte foil finishing touches are elegantly placed to enhance certain features, capturing attention and adding class for an aesthetic appeal. - High-quality sturdy Smyth-sewn binding stitches book signatures together creating durability and allowing pages to lay flat when open. Decorative head and foot bands are also added to further complement the overall design. - Uncoated woodfree paper is of premium quality and thickness, lending itself to long-lasting vivid coloration and durability. - A beautiful satin ribbon marker conveniently keeps your place so you can quickly pick up where you left off.
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Savage, Minnesota, USA
Broadstreetpublishing.com
365 Days of Resting in God’s Presence
© 2025 by BroadStreet Publishing®
9781424570195
9781424570201 (eBook)
Devotional entries composed by Sara Perry.
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law.
Scripture quotations marked NIV are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. www.zondervan.com. The “NIV” and “New International Version” are trademarks registered in the United States Patent and Trademark Office by Biblica, Inc.™ Scripture quotations marked NLT are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked ESV are taken from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), Copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked csb are taken from the Christian Standard Bible®, Copyright © 2017 by Holman Bible Publishers. Used by permission. Christian Standard Bible® and CSB® are federally registered trademarks of Holman Bible Publishers. Scripture quotations marked nasb are taken from the New American Standard Bible, Copyright 2020 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked NKJV are taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked NCV are taken from the New Century Version®. Copyright © 2005 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked tpt are taken from The Passion Translation® of the Holy Bible. Copyright © 2020 by Passion & Fire Ministries, Inc. Used by permission of BroadStreet Publishing®. All rights reserved.
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25 26 27 28 29 30 31 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
MATTHEW 11:28 NIV
Introduction
January
January 1: This Is the Day
January 2: Seasons and Cycles
January 3: Power of Purpose
January 4: Lay Them Down
January 5: Safe and Secure
January 6: Present Peace
January 7: Ancient Paths
January 8: Sabbath Rest
January 9: Feast on Joy
January 10: Return and Rest
January 11: Soul Satisfaction
January 12: Sustained
January 13: Confident Trust
January 14: Abounding Hope
January 15: Lie Down and Rest
January 16: Plentiful Portion
January 17: Powerful Peace
January 18: Focus on His Face
January 19: God Alone
January 20: Body and Soul
January 21: Daily Bread
January 22: Invitation to Rest
January 23: Tower of Strength
January 24: Let Go and Trust
January 25: Rest for Everyone
January 26: Eternal Encouragement
January 27: Born to Bear Fruit
January 28: Supernatural Blessing
January 29: It’s Simple
January 30: Sustenance
January 31: A Hopeful Future
February
February 1: In Your Need
February 2: Be Still
February 3: Comforted
February 4: Breathe in Peace
February 5: Overflowing Joy
February 6: Wholehearted Trust
February 7: Sacrificial Love
February 8: Necessary Margin
February 9: Door to Rest
February 10: Courage for Today
February 11: Flourish
February 12: Take Heart
February 13: Eyes on Him
February 14: Abundant Life
February 15: The Greatest Standard
February 16: Primary Focus
February 17: Defender
February 18: Wherever You Go
February 19: In Quiet Rest
February 20: Measureless Grace
February 21: Incomparable Delight
February 22: Powerful Faith
February 23: The Gift of Today
February 24: Time to Delight
February 25: Living Water
February 26: Reliable and True
February 27: Surrender
February 28: Daily Wisdom
March
March 1: Aligned in Wisdom
March 2: Never Lacking
March 3: Beloved
March 4: God’s Work
March 5: Right on Time
March 6: Well Resourced
March 7: My Beating Heart
March 8: Rooted in Relationship
March 9: Draw Near
March 10: Priceless
March 11: Abundant Goodness
March 12: Heartfelt Peace
March 13: Life-giving Perspective
March 14: Prayerful Antidotes
March 15: Bringing Calm to Chaos
March 16: Sing Your Song
March 17: Beauty of Blessings
March 18: Pure Wisdom
March 19: Humble Hearts
March 20: Beauty to Come
March 21: Values over Rules
March 22: Room for Forgiveness
March 23: Follow His Lead
March 24: A Quiet Life
March 25: Whispers of Wisdom
March 26: Undisturbed Peace
March 27: Spirit Strength
March 28: Spirit of Truth
March 29: Invite Him In
March 30: Even in the Dark
March 31: Faithful to Forgive
April
April 1: Not in a Hurry
April 2: Blessed Assurance
April 3: Partial Understanding
April 4: Path to the Father
April 5: Perfect Love
April 6: Consistent Response
April 7: Multiplied Peace
April 8: The Good Shepherd
April 9: Engraved
April 10: Faith to Believe
April 11: Inseparable
April 12: Chosen
April 13: Holy Teacher
April 14: Absolutely Nothing
April 15: Restful Qualities
April 16: Faithful God
April 17: Grace Gifts
April 18: Every Good Thing
April 19: Real Things
April 20: Renewed Mind
April 21: Our Source of Being
April 22: Unwavering Help
April 23: More Than My Own
April 24: Refreshing Wisdom
April 25: Trust His Hand
April 26: The Piercing Word
April 27: Beloved Child
April 28: Embodied Truth
April 29: Strength in Waiting
April 30: Powerful Renewal
May
May 1: Fresh Perspective
May 2: Restored Joy
May 3: Inner Renewal
May 4: Persistent Mercy
May 5: Our Coming Hope
May 6: Empowered Living
May 7: Hearts of Compassion
May 8: All Together
May 9: Strength for Today
May 10: Making a Way
May 11: Faith to Keep On
May 12: Audience of One
May 13: Heavenly Realities
May 14: Liberating Truth
May 15: When Fear Rises
May 16: Working It Out
May 17: Strong in the Lord
May 18: Weary Heart
May 19: Every Blessing
May 20: Refreshing Rains
May 21: Step by Step
May 22: Everyone Has a Place
May 23: Gracious Fellowship
May 24: Where You Belong
May 25: Surefooted
May 26: Image Bearers
May 27: Living Love
May 28: Fight Temptation
May 29: Inner Strength
May 30: Lord of All
May 31: Signs of the Spirit
June
June 1: Enough for Today
June 2: Steadfast Compassion
June 3: Friend of God
June 4: At all Times
June 5: Heaven’s Goodness
June 6: Moving Closer
June 7: Humble King
June 8: Delighted In
June 9: Grow in Grace
June 10: All for Him
June 11: A Loving Response
June 12: Divine Fellowship
June 13: Fruit-bearing Promises
June 14: Attentive Father
June 15: Great Mysteries
June 16: Satisfying Love
June 17: Covenant of Kindness
June 18: Cherished Children
June 19: He Answers
June 20: Author and Perfecter
June 21: Heartfelt Hope
June 22: Walk It Out
June 23: Continual Change
June 24: Royal Behaviors
June 25: Already There
June 26: Bolstered in Hope
June 27: Reason to Rejoice
June 28: Unwavering
June 29: Present Portion
June 30: Embrace It
July
July 1: History of Hope
July 2: Your Choice
July 3: Confident Hope
July 4: Deep Wells
July 5: Better Still
July 6: Well Watered
July 7: Fear Not
July 8: By the Spirit
July 9: Resurrection Life
July 10: Sweeter than Honey
July 11: Pleasant Words
July 12: Greatest of All
July 13: Your Anchor
July 14: Hold Fast
July 15: Salvation’s Song
July 16: The Golden Rule
July 17: Cloud of Witnesses
July 18: It Will Work Out
July 19: People of Peace
July 20: Doing Good
July 21: Our Healing
July 22: Sweet Wisdom
July 23: Alignment Check
July 24: Lit from Within
July 25: Reliable Leader
July 26: Great Understanding
July 27: Just Ask
July 28: Cheerful Choices
July 29: Solid Steps
July 30: Give and Receive
July 31: Under His Protection
August
August 1: Consistency Pays Off
August 2: Eternal Glory
August 3: Countless Reasons
August 4: Unbothered
August 5: Bold Approach
August 6: Ask Seek Knock
August 7: Quick Returns
August 8: Aroma of Love
August 9: Timely Encouragement
August 10: In Spirit and Truth
August 11: Bathed in Mercy
August 12: Look Up
August 13: Valuables
August 14: Refreshing Returns
August 15: Under His Wings
August 16: Pleasing Sacrifices
August 17: Empowering Love
August 18: Always Enough
August 19: Bound in Love
August 20: Character on Display
August 21: Heavenly Insight
August 22: Undying Hope
August 23: Justified by Faith
August 24: Even an Inkling
August 25: Great God
August 26: Righteous Faith
August 27: The Same Jesus
August 28: Promise Keeper
August 29: Jesus Understands
August 30: Spiritual Renewal
August 31: Walk by Faith
September
September 1: First and Last
September 2: What You Know
September 3: No Weapon
September 4: Prayerful Perseverance
September 5: Focused Gaze
September 6: Grounded Trust
September 7: We Are His
September 8: Stand and Shine
September 9: Never Lose Hope
September 10: His Eye Is on You
September 11: A Better Way
September 12: Ask Anything
September 13: Stillness
September 14: Great Rescuer
September 15: Confident Assurance
September 16: Be Still and Know
September 17: Keep Reaching
September 18: Side by Side
September 19: Above All
September 20: Every Single Day
September 21: Unfolding Beauty
September 22: Harbored Hope
September 23: Powerful Gift
September 24: Unwavering God
September 25: Promised Peace
September 26: Embrace the Promise
September 27: The Origin of All
September 28: Still Working
September 29: Completely Equipped
September 30: Gracious Giving
October
October 1: Encouraging Predictions
October 2: Secure Steps
October 3: Living Message
October 4: Holy Determination
October 5: Such a Time as This
October 6: In Christ
October 7: Life-giving Light
October 8: Immeasurable Love
October 9: Glorious Grace
October 10: Lifted Up
October 11: Grace and Peace
October 12: Living Sacrifice
October 13: Arise and Build
October 14: Abide
October 15: No Condemnation
October 16: Turn and Live
October 17: Lifelong Friend
October 18: Enduring Righteousness
October 19: Happy Trust
October 20: Joyful Kingdom
October 21: He Is Greater
October 22: Alive Forevermore
October 23: Immovable Kingdom
October 24: There’s a Way
October 25: Declarations of Faith
October 26: Increasing Wisdom
October 27: Chosen First
October 28: He Already Knows
October 29: Sound of Brilliance
October 30: Divine Perceptions
October 31: Everywhere You Look
November
November 1: Remarkable
November 2: Honorable Gifts
November 3: Words of Life
November 4: Close Comfort
November 5: Declared Innocent
November 6: Heaping Portions
November 7: Revived by God’s Word
November 8: Steady Presence
November 9: Quiet Confidence
November 10: Overwhelming Success
November 11: Unending Peace
November 12: Promise of Restoration
November 13: Better Help
November 14: Unshakable Hope
November 15: By Name
November 16: God’s Timing
November 17: Fully Enriched
November 18: Even in Trouble
November 19: Higher Ways
November 20: Heartfelt Song
November 21: The Right Time
November 22: Secure Faith
November 23: Receive with Gratitude
November 24: In Time
November 25: Plans of Promise
November 26: Reason to Sing
November 27: Timely Words
November 28: Incomparable Glory
November 29: Courage to Wait
November 30: Perfect God
December
December 1: Wonderful News
December 2: Plans for Unity
December 3: His Faithfulness
December 4: Undeniably Faithful
December 5: He Keeps Track
December 6: Leave It to God
December 7: Godlike
December 8: Eternal Home
December 9: The Seeing God
December 10: Honest Surrender
December 11: The Better Choice
December 12: God’s Home
December 13: Our High Priest
December 14: Even to the End
December 15: Foundations of Love
December 16: Flawless Before Him
December 17: Gracious God
December 18: Complete in Him
December 19: One True God
December 20: So Close
December 21: Confident Help
December 22: Glorious Gift
December 23: God With Us
December 24: Making the Best of It
December 25: Wonderful Counselor
December 26: Great Mystery
December 27: His Promise
December 28: Listen to Jesus
December 29: Established by God
December 30: Eagerly Waiting
December 31: Radiating Goodness
In the hustle and bustle of life, finding a moment of true rest can seem impossible, but God invites you to step into his presence and experience the profound peace that only he can provide. This devotional is your guide to embracing his invitation each and every day.
With thoughtful reflections, carefully selected Scriptures, and heartfelt prayers, 365 Days of Resting in God’s Presence will help you draw closer to God’s heart. Rest in his goodness as his promises are illuminated. Connect deeply with him as you express your innermost thoughts and desires.
Whether you are starting your day with the dawn or winding down in the evening, this devotional book encourages you to pause, breathe, and find solace in the unwavering love of God. Let each page lead you to a deeper sense of calm, joy, and spiritual renewal as you rest in his presence.
Truly my soul finds rest in God; my salvation comes from him.
PSALM 62:1 NIV
This is the day the LORD has made.
We will rejoice and be glad in it.
PSALM 118:24 NLT
A lot of people like to look toward the future at the beginning of the year. Today may be the start of a new calendar year, but it is also an opportunity to be rooted in the present. Each and every day is a gift. None of us know how long we will be on this earth, so it’s to our benefit to embrace each day with intention, gratitude, and joy.
God is present with you in this very moment. He doesn’t wait for special moments to show up. He is as close in this breath as he ever was or will be. Turn your attention to his nearness. Thank him for the gift this day offers. Find reasons to rejoice here and now, and rest in the presence of God’s love as it washes over you. There is no better time than the present to lean into the goodness of God.
Good God, thank you for this day. Thank you for life, connection, and all you have given. I choose to rest knowing you are near. I rejoice in the present because it’s full of your love.
There is a time for everything,
and a season for every activity under the heavens:
a time to be born and a time to die,
a time to plant and a time to uproot.
ECCLESIASTES 3:1-2 NIV
There is a season for everything. There is a time to press in, and a time to pull back. There is time to work, and time to rest. Knowing which season we are in can help us arrange our priorities. When we fight the reality of our circumstances, we miss the chance to rest in God’s goodness despite the details of our days.
It would be foolish to have a summer wardrobe at the ready in the height of the cold winter months. It would be much wiser to keep warmer clothes accessible. When you engage with your surroundings realistically, you set yourself up for success. When your expectations are reasonable, you remain ready for whatever comes your way. Take time to look over the current season of your life and ask the Lord to show you how to embrace it.
Holy Spirit, thank you for the wisdom of the seasons. I don’t want to fight the winters of life. Help me embrace the season you have me in right now. I don’t want to wish away your plans for my life.
He made the moon to mark the seasons;
the sun knows its time for setting.
PSALM 104:19 ESV
The moon and sun were created with purpose. There is power in their very existence. Where would we be without the sun? Would the earth be what it is without the moon to shift tides and seasons? If the sun and moon reflect God’s intentions in their existence, we can be sure that we do too.
There is purpose in your life, and you don’t have to create it. You were born to bloom as a child of God. You were knit together with specific talents and giftings. Your purpose is built into your existence. The sun and moon don’t determine when to shine or when to shift the seasons. They are already fulfilling their purposes. Rest in your identity as a beloved child of God. Lean back into the steady arms of your Savior and let him bless you with his presence.
Creator, I don’t want to strive for my worth. I want to rest in who you have created me to be and live fully and freely in the light of your love.
“Come to me, all of you who are tired and have heavy loads, and I will give you rest.”
MATTHEW 11:28 NCV
When the heavy burdens of life weigh us down, we don’t have to buckle under their load. Jesus invites us to come to him with everything we carry. He beckons us to lay our burdens at his feet and experience real rest in his presence.
In prayer, turn your attention to Jesus and release what you carry. He will take your worries and give you peace. It’s a beautiful exchange. He is strong enough to help you, and he is eager to relieve you. He longs for you to trust him and take him up on his offer of peace.
Faithful One, I bring you all the burdens, worries, and confusion I carry. I trust you to give me rest and peace when I surrender to you.
Because of you, Lord, I will lie down in peace
and sleep comes at once,
for no matter what happens, I will live unafraid!
PSALM 4:8 TPT
There are times in life when sleep becomes elusive. We struggle to rest when we can’t stop thinking about the troubles around us. We dwell on what’s going on in the world, in the lives of those we love, and in our own backyards. However, this is not how God wants us to live. He wants to soothe our worries just as a caring parent does for their child.
If you are having trouble sleeping, consider changing your bedtime habits. Instead of looking at your phone, try reading. When you feel yourself begin to ruminate, turn your attention toward your day. What are three things for which you are grateful? Look for where his light shines through the cracks of your life. You can lie down in peace and sleep unafraid because God watches over you.
Good Father, I trust you to take care of what I cannot. When the troubles of this life are many, open my eyes to see the way you’ve blessed me. Please soothe my heart and give me peaceful sleep.
“My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.”
EXODUS 33:14 CSB
It is okay if you have struggled to recognize God’s presence. It does not change his faithful nature one bit, and he doesn’t grow tired of assuring you of his love. If you need a fresh reminder of his grace, ask him for it. If you need courage to step forward, remember that his presence goes with you.
The peace of God isn’t fragile. It does not recede with your confusion or frustration. The Lord is powerfully present no matter the situation or circumstance. It doesn’t matter what time of day or night it is. If you need him, you can be sure that he is accessible. Open your heart to him and watch as he meets you in the midst of whatever you are experiencing.
Prince of Peace, I confess that I need your peace again. I need reassurance of your presence once more. Thank you for your patience and compassion toward me. Settle my heart and mind as I turn to you.
“Stand by the ways and see and ask for the ancient paths,
Where the good way is, and walk in it;
Then you will find a resting place for your souls.”
JEREMIAH 6:16 NASB
God has laid out a path for each of us. We can faithfully follow him because he is trustworthy and good. He will order our steps and keep us steady. He will lead us by the hand when we can’t tell which way to go. The path of faith has been walked by many before, and we can trust that the way is well marked.
When you walk in God’s ways, you will find rest. Though the terrain might be unknown or difficult, he will give you exactly what you need. The rest you experience in your soul far surpasses any amount of physical rest. The confidence that comes from knowing you are following a reliable leader is better than anxiously stumbling through life without him. Today, stretch out your hand and trust God to guide you.
Lord, you have set a path before me. Give me strength to walk in your ways and follow you with confidence. I trust you to give me exactly what I need along the way.
There remains therefore a rest for the people of God. For he who has entered His rest has himself also ceased from his works as God did from His.
HEBREWS 4:9-10 NKJV
In the beginning, God created the world. He created the mountains and seas, along with everything in them. He set the stars and planets in motion. He made animals and plants alike, and he also created humanity. When he was finished, he didn’t simply move on. He didn’t keep fine-tuning it, either. He stepped back and admired everything he made, and he said it was good. Finally, he rested.
You don’t need permission to rest; you already have it. You were made for it, and it’s important to take time to step away from your work and responsibilities. If you don’t already have a set Sabbath, make room in your schedule. Even if you cannot set aside a whole day, you can piece together times of rest. Create rhythms of rest in your schedule, and you will be grateful you did.
God, thank you for the example you have set. Help me follow you by making time to rest. I want to know the joy, peace, refreshment, and restoration of keeping a Sabbath.
Taste and see that the LORD is good.
Oh, the joys of those who take refuge in him!
PSALM 34:8 NLT
Joy is not reserved for easy times. It isn’t available only when everything seems to be going right in the world. Joy is found in the presence of God. He is always good, and we can celebrate his goodness no matter the time or season.
Take time to look for the goodness of God in your life. He has given you so many good gifts. From the peace of a quiet morning to the laughter of a loved one, life is filled with reasons to give thanks to God. As you taste and see his goodness, remember how much he loves you. As you find your home in him, rejoice and be glad!
God, I don’t ever want to forget how good you are. Open my eyes and fill my heart with overflowing gratitude as I look for the fingerprints of your mercy in my life.
This is what the Sovereign LORD, the Holy One of Israel, says:
“In repentance and rest is your salvation,
in quietness and trust is your strength.”
ISAIAH 30:15 NIV
Repentance is an uncommon word, but it is not complicated. It is a change of heart and mind that brings us closer to God. It involves embracing humility and asking forgiveness, but it also involves turning away from sin and toward God. When we repent, we reorient our heart and deliberately surrender our will to God’s.
There is rest in returning to the Lord. There is peace that settles over your heart as you receive his forgiveness and know the freedom of his grace. Whatever distance you have felt from the Lord, he closes the divide as soon as you turn to him. Don’t be afraid to go to him, no matter how long or short it’s been since you last connected with him. He is always ready to receive you. Return and rest, beloved child of God.
Merciful Father, thank you for the peace I find in you. You are my soul’s home, and I find my rest in you.
“I will satisfy the weary soul, and every languishing soul I will replenish.”
JEREMIAH 31:25 ESV
We cannot avoid weariness in this life. Inevitably there will be days and seasons that feel harder than others. When we find ourselves in these times, let’s not use our weariness as a weapon against ourselves. God gives strength to the weak. He is close to the brokenhearted. He draws near to the humble of heart.
When your soul is languishing, don’t despair. God offers grace, compassion, and the strength of his love. It can be tempting to feel worthless when you are in a dormant period in life and aren’t experiencing the progress or thriving you had hoped. However, your worth is not tied to what you do! It is in who God says you are, and that never changes. May your soul find its satisfaction in God today and every day.
Shepherd of my soul, I find it hard not to find my worth in what I can offer. Help me to know the power and peace of your love as it meets me as I am today.
I can lie down and go to sleep,
and I will wake up again,
because the LORD gives me strength.
PSALM 3:5 NCV
Whether you are starting the day fresh or reflecting at its end, may today’s verse fill your heart with peace. You can lie down and sleep, and you will wake again because the Lord gives you strength. He is your sustenance, your source, and your help. You are not alone, and you never will be.
God’s faithfulness continues from day to day and age to age. He hasn’t missed a moment of your life. His well of mercy will never run dry. God meets you in the mundane and the extraordinary, in the horrible and in the overwhelmingly good. Breathe in his peace and remember his nearness. God is your source of sustenance and strength.
Powerful One, I’m so thankful for your faithfulness and unchanging nature. You are always merciful, good, gracious, and kind. You are my strength and my soul rests in you.
Perfect, absolute peace surrounds those whose imaginations are consumed with you; they confidently trust in you.
ISAIAH 26:3 TPT
The imagination is a wonderful gift. It is not only for our entertainment, dreaming, or leisure. It is where our mindsets are shifted, our hope is bolstered, and our faith is expanded. God is not offended by our imaginings of him. He loves to meet us in the place of creative ideation!
You cannot exaggerate the goodness of God. Your fullest understanding is barely a glimpse of his glorious reality. Scripture says that God will outdo our greatest requests and exceed our wildest imaginations. Instead of praying small, stretch your imagination and expect the goodness of God to meet you in powerful ways. Rest in the absolute peace of God’s powerful love today.
Glorious God, there is no one like you. I quickly forget how powerful and loving you are, but you never change. Overwhelm my expectations with the reality of your goodness!
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you believe so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
ROMANS 15:13 CSB
Sometimes hope feels scarce. Our attitudes and faith are tested daily, but there is good news. God is as faithful today as he was when he led his people through the Red Sea on dry land. He is as loving and kind as he was when Jesus ministered to the poor, healed the sick, and raised the dead. He hasn’t changed one bit.
When your hope is in God, you have a never-ending source to draw from. When you feel despair creeping in, it’s time to redirect your attention. Be aware of what is draining your energy. While it is good to stay informed about the world, you are not built for constant information overload. Be sure to give your nervous system, mind, and our heart a break to rest in the presence of God. The Holy Spirit offers you peace, joy, and hope as you rest in him.
God of hope, help me find my rest, joy, and peace in your presence. Give my body, mind, and soul a break from the noise of endless information.
He lets me lie down in green pastures;
He leads me beside quiet waters.
He restores my soul;
He guides me in the paths of righteousness
For the sake of His name.
PSALM 23:2-3 NASB
Psalm 23 evokes powerfully peaceful imagery. The Lord is a good shepherd. He doesn’t overwork his sheep. He leads us beside quiet waters so that we will know the restoration of his peace. He allows us to lie down in green pastures so that we can experience the rest and provision that only comes from him.
Picture a quiet body of water. Imagine the way the sun might shine and the noises of nature you might hear. Perhaps there is a hammock close by where you can nap. This is the kind of rest your soul can find in God today. He is gentle with you, and he knows exactly what you need. Spend time with him and ask him to lead you to the place of rest where his peace washes over you.
Good Shepherd, lead me beside quiet waters and restore my soul. Thank you for the green pastures of your presence. Fill me with peace as I trust you to lead me.
My flesh and my heart fail;
But God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.
PSALM 73:26 NKJV
God’s power is not contingent upon our strength. No matter what state we are in, he is powerful, merciful, faithful, and true. In this world, we admire the vitality of youth. We put our value in what we can offer, or how we appear to others. This is not the way of God’s kingdom. His opinion of us does not change depending on our age. He is with us fully for all of our days.
When your heart and flesh fail, embrace your weakness. There is vulnerability in authenticity. Put aside the need to look a certain way and instead go to God with your frailty. He knows you through and through. He is your plentiful portion. When you are at your weakest, he has all the strength you need.
God, I don’t want to pretend with you. You see me as I am with all my flaws and weaknesses. Strengthen my heart with your gracious love.
Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.
PHILIPPIANS 4:7 NLT
There is no fear in God’s love. He offers us peace so we can be considerate, grounded, and wise. When we offer our hearts to him, he offers us the blessings that come from living according to His design. This means choosing peace over chaos, joy over fear, and trust over anxiety.
God’s peace allows space for you to be confident and grounded even when your circumstances could merit fear or frustration. His peace doesn’t shut you down or overlook your feelings. Instead, it allows you to securely stand upon the truth no matter how you feel. God’s peace is steady, reliable, and unshakeable.
Gracious God, your peace is incredible. It calms nervous systems and storms alike. When fear threatens to cause chaos in my life, bring me back to your presence and fill me with peace.
Look to the LORD and his strength;
seek his face always.
1 CHRONICLES 16:11 NIV
In the Old Testament, the face of God was synonymous with his presence. When we seek his face, we seek his presence. Each day we can center ourselves and turn our attention toward God. He is always close and ready to be found. We don’t have to journey to the ends of the earth to find him.
Look to the Lord no matter where you are or how you’re feeling. Expect his strength to meet you in your weakness. Seek his face always, for it is to your benefit to be intertwined with his heart. He loves to meet you where you are, empower you in your weakness, and refresh your hope when you need it.
Lord, I look to you today. I let go of the worries that have been clouding my focus and turn my attention to you, the author and perfecter of my faith. Meet me here, Lord. I need you.
For God alone my soul waits in silence;
from him comes my salvation.
PSALM 62:1 ESV
Typically, we don’t have many friends who stay by our side for the entirety of our lives. Some friends come and go with the different seasons of life. Others are close in heart but far in distance. Friends are a gift from God, but the greatest gift we have is Jesus. He never leaves us. He never misunderstands us. He is always close.
Jesus is your salvation and provision. Everything you truly need is found in him. He loves you unconditionally and is the wisest of counselors. When you feel alone, remember that He is close and available. He is ready to embrace you with open arms. Wait on him and experience the refreshing rest of his presence once again.
Savior, there is so much in life that I cannot control. When others cannot meet me in my need, you always do. I don’t take your presence for granted. Thank you for loving me and providing for me.
My dear friend, I know your soul is doing fine, and I pray that you are doing well in every way and that your health is good.
3 JOHN 1:2 NCV
John’s prayer for his friend in today’s verse is a good reminder to pray for wholeness in the lives of those we love, as well as in our own lives. God doesn’t want us to experience peace in our souls alone; he wants us to know the power of his faithful love in every way including in our bodies.
Where are you doing well? Thank God for these areas. Where do you need God’s help in experiencing more balance, rest, and strength? Offer these areas to him. Don’t settle for certain areas of your life being good enough. Bring whatever you are lacking to your faithful Father and allow him to decide what is best for you. He cares about every part of you.
Lord, thank you for giving me new life through Jesus. Thank you for the healing and wholeness you continue to bring to my life. Help me turn to you with my weaknesses and trust you with the areas of my life that are lacking.
“I am the Bread of Life. Come every day to me and you will never be hungry. Believe in me and you will never be thirsty.”
JOHN 6:35 TPT
The promises of God are yes and amen. They are hope to our souls and strength to our bones. Jesus’ ministry powerfully reflected God’s heart toward his people. He is the Bread of Life. He quenches the thirst of our souls with the living waters of his love. There is no better place to start our day than in the nourishing presence of Christ our daily bread.
Just as food fuels our bodies for all that we encounter, Jesus gives us all we need to energize our faith and empower our hearts in his love. God gives us what we need each and every day. His Word is never stale, and his presence opens doors to provision. Spend time with him every day, and feast on his timely Word.
God, thank you for your daily bread. Speak to me and encourage my heart in the power of your wisdom. I trust that you will supply all I need today and every day. Thank you.
“Come away by yourselves to a remote place and rest for a while.” For many people were coming and going, and they did not even have time to eat.
MARK 6:31 CSB
God does not want us to burn out. Jesus knew the importance of getting away from the demands of others. He invited his friends and disciples to retreat with him. They needed respite from the ministry and its demands. If Jesus embraced the importance of rest, then we can do. We can follow his example without guilt.
You aren’t meant to work non-stop. You aren’t meant to be so overloaded with responsibilities that you can’t step away to breathe, re-focus, and find the nourishment you need. Maybe you can’t get away for a weekend, but you can likely find a place near you that puts some distance between you and your responsibilities. God has given you permission to step away and allow your soul to be refreshed.
Jesus, thank you for the reminder that rest is necessary. You took time for yourself, so I don’t have to feel bad about doing the same. Help me prioritize stepping away from the demands of life and resting so I can come back feeling refreshed.
The name of the LORD is a strong tower;
The righteous runs into it and is safe.
PROVERBS 18:10 NASB
God’s nature is like a strong and mighty tower. It is a safe place to retreat when we feel overwhelmed by the demands of life. On days when everything seems to go wrong and we can’t seem to gain perspective, God is with us. We don’t need to be at our best before we come to him. He is a good Father who delights in helping his children.
When the storms of life are out of hand and you need a place to rest, go to the Lord. Even when you can’t physically remove yourself from a difficult situation, you can connect to the Lord in your innermost being. You can turn your heart toward him and rest in the quiet peace of his presence. He is your strength, and he will not let you fight your battles alone.
Great God, I’m so thankful for your powerful presence that is accessible at all times. I run to you and find safety, peace, and all that I need.
Anxiety in the heart of man causes depression,
But a good word makes it glad.
PROVERBS 12:25 NKJV
Anxiety is not a restful state. When we are hyper vigilant, there isn’t space to let go and rest in the present peace of God. While we may not be able to rid ourselves of every worry or anxiety, we can hand them over to the Lord. We can know the peace of his presence as it meets us in every breath.
A good word at the right time brings relief. It breaks through the what-ifs and eases the unknown with powerful truth. You can know the power of God’s presence as you turn your attention to his nearness. He is with you, just as he promised he would be. When anxiety rises in your heart, offer it to the Lord and trust him with your stress. Quiet your soul and wait in his presence. He has words of life to offer you.
Father, anxiety is like a leaky faucet that never lets up, but your peace is more powerful. I offer you the worries of my heart and let go of the need to understand every detail of my life. Speak to me and flood me with your peace.
“You have six days each week for your ordinary work, but on the seventh day you must stop working. This gives your ox and your donkey a chance to rest. It also allows your slaves and the foreigners living among you to be refreshed.”
EXODUS 23:12 NLT