Hold Onto Hope: A 5-Day Devotional for Encouragement and New BeginningsSample

In most of my speeches, I ask young women not to look for the easy way out of situations but to depend on God. I tell them that He will help them hold up under the pressures of life’s disappointments.

“‘Don’t worry about anything,’” I’ll quote. “‘Instead, pray about everything.’” (Philippians 4:6 NLT) I tried to let them know that I was where many of them are right now: down and out, with no idea what to do next. I try to share with them that it was only when I finally grew up enough to let God into my life that my entire world changed. When that happens, you feel compelled to tell anyone who’ll listen.

Even though there seems to be an endless amount of hustle and bustle in my life, I can assure you that there is no relationship that I focus on more than the one I have with God. I’m not trying to be perfect or holier-than-thou; it’s just that I owe God my life.

After so many years of not giving Him my full and undivided attention, I now do what I can to serve and honor Him at all times. This makes me a true servant, and I love it. I know that without God’s grace and mercy over my life, I never would have made it this far.

With God at the center of my life, I continue to be content with who I am and where I am. Whether I marry again or even get involved in another serious relationship, I know that I am not lonely and I’m not alone.

When you see me walking, know that I’m about my Father’s business and working for His purpose. I have my loving family, my special and true friends, and I have my God—I’m truly walking like I have somewhere to go, and I do. He gives me all the direction I need.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, I owe everything to You. Thank you for blessing me and for always walking with me so that I never need to feel anxious. Please continue to give me direction so that I can glorify you in all that I do. Amen.

This reading plan is based on the book, While I Have Your Attentionby Dr. Lucille O'Neal.