She Will Be Blessed by Barbour Books

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She Will Be Blessed

A Daily Devotional Journal for Women of Faith

Print ISBN 978-1-63609-944-6

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Text previously appeared in Blessed Is She Who Hopes, Blessed Is She Who Prays, and Blessed Is She Who Believes

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Scripture quotations marked kjv are taken from the King James Version of the Bible.

Scripture quotations marked msg are taken from THE MESSAGE, copyright © 1993, 2002, 2018 by Eugene H. Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, represented by Tyndale House Publishers. All rights reserved.

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, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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Our mission is to inspire the world with the life-changing message of the Bible.

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Day 1

Taste and See

I prayed to the Lord, and he answered me. He freed me from all my fears. . . . Taste and see that the Lord is good.

P salm 34:4, 8 nlt

David wrote this psalm before he became king, after a situation when he was so scared of his enemies that he pretended to be a drooling madman in order to escape. After his life was spared, he didn’t say, “See how clever I am that I managed to get away!” Instead, he gave God all the credit.

Notice that David didn’t say, “Pray and be spiritual, and then you’ll experience God’s goodness.” Not, of course, that praying is ever wrong! But David implied that when life seems scary and hopeless, our physical senses may give us glimpses of God and renew our hope. It might be the flavor of homemade bread, the rosy light of a sunrise, or the scent of new-mown grass that brings hope to our hearts. It could be a child’s laughter or a loving hug. Our favorite song, a warm bath, or even a comfy old sweater can all be opportunities to “taste and see” God. And through each of these small sensual pleasures, God whispers hope into our hearts.

Today, Lord, open my eyes to the beauty of Your world. Remind me to take a moment to listen, smell, taste, and feel all the wonderful things You have created. May I taste and see You and find new hope.

Day 2 Memories

“Don’t you see, you planned evil against me but God used those same plans for my good.”

G enesis 50:20 ms G

Neuroscientists tell us our brains handle negative and positive memories differently. We tend to spend more time thinking about painful experiences, which means these memories may become deeply ingrained, shaping how we think about both the present and the future. Often, like hamsters circling endlessly on their wheels, we relive again and again the hurts we have received—the times we felt insulted or rejected, the times when someone made us feel small or ashamed—and in the process, we remain stuck in the past. We can’t change how our brains work, nor can we change what happened in the past, but we can allow God to transform how we think about painful memories.

Ask the Spirit to reveal to you how God might use your painful memories to help you grow. Be open to exploring new possibilities that might arise from even the most hurtful experiences. Believe that God’s creative power can continue to work through what has already happened to you. Let hope have the final word!

Heavenly friend, as I look back at my past, show me Your presence and love even in the most painful moments. Give new meaning to these old memories so I can face the future with fresh hope.

Day 3

The Gift of Friendship

Wounds from a sincere friend are better than many kisses from an enemy.

P roverbs 27:6 nlt

Talking with a friend, sharing your life with someone who understands, is one of life’s great blessings. After you talk with a wise friend, life usually makes more sense. Seemingly unsolvable problems no longer seem as overwhelming. A faithful friend’s words—even when you don’t want to hear them!—can help you understand yourself and can also point you toward the eternal meaning that’s hidden in your life. Friendship teaches you new perspectives. It strengthens your belief in God’s power and allows you to see yourself as God sees you.

Thank You, heavenly friend, for the earthly friendships You have given me. Please use my friends to nurture my belief in You—and use me to encourage my friends as well.

Day 4 Burning Bushes

There the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a blazing fire from the middle of a bush. Moses stared in amazement. Though the bush was engulfed in flames, it didn’t burn up.

e xodus 3:2 nlt

Moses was out in the desert doing his ordinary, everyday work. In his case, his job was to tend his father-in-law’s sheep. In our case, our work might be sitting in front of a computer for eight hours, or it might be teaching children or caring for sick people, managing a business, or making meals for our families. Whatever our daily responsibilities are, we don’t usually expect our workday to be interrupted by a vision of God’s presence. We assume that if God is going to visit us in some spectacular way, it’s not likely to be in the middle of our ordinary routine.

In the Bible, though, that is often how God turns up—by surprise, somewhere people aren’t expecting to find Him. God startles us out of our mental ruts so we can confront a larger reality, a world that blazes with His hope and power. When we look at the world with the eyes of hope, we may be amazed by a “burning bush” of our own.

God of hope and power, may I never be so busy that I’m not startled to awareness by the fire of Your love.

Day 5

A New Day

God is within her, she will not fall; God will help her at break of day.

P salm 46:5 niv

We may start the day full of energy and hope but end the same day with weariness and discouragement. Sometimes the events of the day batter our hearts and minds to the point that our hope begins to ebb away. Other times, our minds and bodies are simply tired, and tired minds and bodies are more easily discouraged. Meanwhile, God never changes. He doesn’t blame us for our physical and emotional reactions to a long day; instead, His love holds us steady through each day’s ebb and flow. And every morning, He gives us a chance to begin again.

No matter how tired or discouraged you feel, God’s Spirit never abandons you. Regardless of what happened yesterday or today, you can have hope for tomorrow because God is within you.

I can’t quite grasp, God, what it means to have You live within me, but I believe that no matter how I feel physically and emotionally, You are holding me, helping me. Thank You for the opportunity to begin again each new day.

Day 6

A Good Word

Anxiety weighs down the heart, but a kind word cheers it up.

P roverbs 12:25 niv

We all get discouraged. It’s just one of those normal human emotions. We get excited about the hopes we have for the future, not realizing that we’ve confused “hope” with “goal-setting.” Then, when we realize there are obstacles in our way and it’s going to take longer than we expected to reach our goals, our hearts grow heavy and our shoulders slump. Even people who are spiritually mature and emotionally strong go through times when they feel like giving up. “Why bother trying?” we ask ourselves. “If I’m just going to fail, why not give up?”

Times like that, we need an encouraging word from someone. And when we notice that someone else is going through a discouraging time, we can be the ones who offer encouragement and hope. Sometimes it only takes something very little— an understanding smile, a hug, or a listening ear—to renew someone’s energy and help them get back on track.

What “good word” can you share with someone today?

Show me, Lord, if someone in my life needs encouragement today. And when I’ve gotten off track and feel like giving up, please send someone to lift my heart and restore my hope in You.

Day 7

Pray for Absolutely Everything

Jesus was matter-of-fact: “Embrace this God-life. Really embrace it, and nothing will be too much for you. This mountain, for instance: Just say, ‘Go jump in the lake’—no shuffling or hemming and hawing—and it’s as good as done. That’s why I urge you to pray for absolutely everything, ranging from small to large. Include everything as you embrace this God-life, and you’ll get God’s everything. And when you assume the posture of prayer, remember that it’s not all asking.”

m ark 11:22–25 ms G

You have the freedom to pray for whatever it is you want or need. When you talk to God, He invites you to ask without fear and without insecurity. You can talk to Him about anything and everything. Big or small, God wants you to bring it to the throne room and share it with heartfelt authenticity. Are you worried you won’t find the right job? Do you struggle with how to best raise your kids in today’s culture? Are you lonely and unsure if you’ll ever find companionship? Are the signs of aging beginning to take their toll on your self-worth? Do you need to defeat the Goliath in front of you? No matter what’s going on in your life, God wants in on it. And it’s His power through your prayers that brings hope and healing to a defeated soul in need of restoration.

Father in heaven, You know the reasons my heart is heavy. I need Your help. In the name of Jesus I pray. Amen.

Day 8

Resting in Belief

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

r omans 8:28 niv

When catastrophe strikes your life, you’re faced with the reality of how fragile life truly is. There you are, going along like normal, when without warning something painful happens. Your sense of safety and security is shattered. Life suddenly feels shaky, as though danger is lurking around every corner. Your belief in God’s love and power is shaken.

But regardless of your feelings in this moment, God’s love remains strong and creative. The same amazing energy that made the world is still at work in every event of your life. What seems like catastrophe will be swept up by His power and made into something that—somehow, in some way—will bless you and those you love. You can rest in that belief!

Lord, when life seems frightening and unpredictable, remind me that Your creative power is always at work, weaving together even life’s challenges and disasters into a fabric of blessing. As my belief in You is tested by life’s painful events, may it grow sturdier.

Day 9

The Hope of Eternal Life

God’s gift is real life, eternal life, delivered by Jesus, our Master.

r omans 6:23 ms G

Our culture doesn’t like to talk about death. Instead, we pretend that death is not an ordinary part of life. We act as though it is the ultimate tragedy—and yet it will happen to us all. A century ago, by age fifty, most people had lost many loved ones: their parents, aunts and uncles, brothers and sisters, children, and possibly a spouse. Until relatively recently, normal life contained a succession of funerals. People were born in the home and they died at home, making death both visible and familiar. These days, death is often hidden away in hospitals or nursing homes. But no matter how we may hide it, the fear of death still haunts us. We may perceive it as a shadow lying over our lives, something terrible that robs us of hope. After all, if death awaits us all, what hope do we have? But Jesus brought a new perspective to our world. Because He conquered death on the cross, we no longer need to fear the end of this life. Instead, we can face even death with hope’s joyful anticipation, trusting that God has even more wonderful things in store for us in eternity.

Thank You, Jesus, for the hope I have in You.

Day 10 Hope That Triumphs over Fear

“Lord, there is no one like you to help the powerless against the mighty. Help us, Lord our God, for we rely on you, and in your name we have come against this vast army. Lord, you are our God; do not let mere mortals prevail against you.”

2 C hroni C les 14:11 niv

When we read verses like this from the Old Testament, we can claim the spiritual symbolism found in these stories of long-ago armies. We too sometimes feel powerless as we confront a situation that seems too vast for us to overcome. The Living One, the God of Israel, is also our God, and He will give us the hope and strength we need to triumph over fear. Historical author Amy Harmon once referenced this in her writings. She wrote about her belief that faith and hope have victory over fear and that choosing to find beauty in hope is an act of rebellion against fear itself.

Living one, You know how scared and powerless I feel sometimes. Thank You that hope in You gives me the strength I need to keep taking tiny steps forward. I know that step by step You are leading me into the abundant life You have planned for me.

Day 11

He Gives and Takes Away

I was naked, with nothing, when I came from my mother’s womb; and naked, with nothing, I will return to the earth. The Eternal has given, and He has taken away. May the name of the Eternal One be blessed.

J ob 1:21 voi C e

When we understand that God is the one who gives and takes away according to His will, it will change the way we pray. It will give us a better understanding of His omnipotence. We will bow to His all-powerfulness. We’ll realize God is the one in control, and that will be a source of peace. It will allow us to exhale as we surrender to His authority. And while we certainly have the gift of free will, it doesn’t negate God’s sovereignty. Tell Him how this truth blesses you and why you’re grateful His hands are deep in the soil of your life. Your choices may be why something is lost or gained, but He knew it would be and will use it for your benefit. Friend, let your heart rest and trust that God’s got you in His hand today and always. Nothing that happens catches Him off guard.

Father in heaven, it blesses me to know You’re in control. I’m grateful You have the insight to give and take away so I benefit in the end. Help me keep the right perspective on this powerful truth, even when I may not understand. In the name of Jesus I pray. Amen.

Day 12

Thank You!

Give thanks for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

e P hesians 5:20 nlt

“Don’t forget to say thank you,” we teach our children (just as our parents taught us). Too often, though, we’re just being polite; we may say the words without truly feeling grateful. When Paul wrote his letter to the Ephesians, telling them to be sure to give God thanks for everything, he wasn’t talking about rules of courtesy. God doesn’t need us to be polite to Him. It’s our own hearts that need to experience gratitude. Gratitude shifts our attention away from ourselves and our narrow, selfcentered concerns. As it affirms all that God has already done, it opens the door to hope for the future.

Thank You, God, for the many gifts You have given me—a home, family, friendships, work, the beauty of the world, and so many other things. Thank You for everything. May my gratitude for all You have done in the past and are doing in the present give me joyful confidence in what You will do in the future.

Day 13

Encouraged to Believe

If your gift is to encourage others, be encouraging.

r omans 12:8 nlt

The word encourage comes from Latin words that mean to put heart or inner strength into someone. The Greek word originally used in this verse adds even deeper meaning, for it implies that the person who encourages others comes close by their side; she becomes so intimate with another person that her words are trustworthy, motivating, and inspiring. Others can believe in what she says. When God encourages you, His own heart reaches out to you, and His strength becomes yours. He enters into an intimate relationship with you so that you can have confidence in His promises. Then, as you rely on this blessing, you will be empowered to reach out to those around you, lending them your own heart and strength as you inspire them to believe in the power of God’s love.

Thank You, God, for all the ways You encourage me and bless me. May I, in turn, encourage and bless others.

Day 14

God’s Words at Home in You

“But if you make yourselves at home with me and my words are at home in you, you can be sure that whatever you ask will be listened to and acted upon.”

J ohn 15:7 ms G

The Lord wants to bless your requests, but only when they are aligned with His will for your life. Sometimes people read today’s verse and are frustrated when the new and improved husband isn’t who walks in the door after work. They’re angry when money isn’t pouring in like they requested. When the cancer doesn’t immediately disappear, some walk away from their faith. They give up on God when pregnancy continues to elude them. But when the Lord’s words are at home in us, it means we understand that His will and ways are above ours. In faith, we choose to trust them over our own. And when we do, our language in prayer will reflect it. We will share our hopes and dreams with God, ending with “But Your will be done, not mine.” God hears your heart and has plans already in place to bless you with the right answer at the right time.

Father in heaven, let my requests reflect my faith in You. Let Your words be on my tongue so I am asking in alignment with Your will and ways. I know You hear my prayers, and I want Your blessings to abound in my life. In the name of Jesus I pray. Amen.

Day 15 New Life

“Look, I am making everything new!”

r evelation 21:5 nlt

Do you ever feel as though you are old and worn out? Even if you’re not actually old in years, you’re so tired you feel as though you can barely keep going. When you are looking around at your life, everything looks stale, nothing is fresh; you’re in a rut, and you don’t know how to get out. And right about then, when you’re at your weakest, disaster strikes. It could be a financial crisis, a health situation, or a family problem. Whatever it is, it just doesn’t seem fair that you have to go through this now!

Sometimes, though, a crisis is exactly what we need to get us out of our ruts. It’s not that God is punishing us for feeling tired and hopeless; it’s more like He’s giving us a wake-up call so we can see what He is trying to do in our lives.

“Look,” says Jesus, “I’m making everything new!”

Lord Jesus, show me the green new growth You are bringing from my life’s scorched soil. May my hope in You never falter, even when I’m weary, even when I’m in the midst of a crisis. I trust Your love.

Day 16

In the Dark Valleys

Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me. . .and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

P salm 23:4, 6 niv

Our culture often equates darkness with evil. However, God is with us just as much in the dark as He is in the light. This means that both the dark and light experiences in our lives have things to teach us about hope. Remember, just as a baby grows in the darkness of a womb so do seeds sprout and grow in the darkness of the soil. Transformation and new life rise from the darkness into the light.

But it’s hard to remember all that when we’re walking through a “dark valley.” God is still with us, but we may not be able to sense His presence. We feel as though we’re all alone, stumbling blindly through the dark. In times like that, here are some suggestions for finding glimmers of light even in the darkest valleys:

• Be grateful and express your gratitude in prayer or creative work.

• Be patient with yourself.

• Reach out to help others.

• Seek support from friends and family or a pastor or therapist. Don’t be embarrassed to ask for help.

• Spend more time reading scripture and in prayer.

Amid my life’s darkest valleys, good shepherd, may I still see stars of hope.

Day 17 Roots

“This year you. . .will take root below and bear fruit above.”

2 k in G s 19:29–30 niv

Our lives go through many seasons. We have fruitful seasons when it’s easy to be filled with hope, as well as dry, bleak seasons when we feel as though we are withering inside and out. Changes come relentlessly into our lives: children grow up, beloved older folks leave this earth, and our bodies feel their limitations as they age, while in the larger world, trends come and go, political parties rise and fall, and triumph and despair seem to take turns having the upper hand. So, amid so much change and turmoil, how do we keep our hope steady?

Our roots in God and His love are the source of our hope, and they never change—no matter how many times the world spins around. What’s more, the psalmist assures us that even while our inner root systems are spreading out in God’s love, down in the soil where no one can see them, our outer lives are also growing tall and strong, bearing fruit that benefits everyone.

Heavenly gardener, nourish my roots with Your love so that I am filled with the hope that will one day bear fruit.

Day 18 Eternity

“There is plenty of room for you in my Father’s home. If that weren’t so, would I have told you that I’m on my way to get a room ready for you?”

J ohn 14:2 ms G

People have various beliefs about eternity, but the fact is none of us knows exactly what lies on the other side of death’s dark door. But you can be certain of this: death will take you home. Jesus promised that. He wouldn’t have said it just to make us feel better, because Jesus wasn’t one for telling polite lies. He didn’t make up stories just to make Himself look better either. So you can rest in the belief that right now He is getting your home in heaven ready for you, filling it with everything you need to be happy. When the day comes that you enter the door, you’ll find it’s exactly right for you, the place you’ve always longed for.

Jesus, I’m grateful for Your promises. When death seems like something dark and frightening, help me believe that it is a homegoing. Thank You that You are creating the perfect home for me for all eternity.

Day 19

The Open Door of Forgiveness

“If you enter your place of worship and, about to make an offering, you suddenly remember a grudge a friend has against you, abandon your offering, leave immediately, go to this friend and make things right. Then and only then, come back and work things out with God.”

m atthew 5:23–24 ms G

Sometimes we believe we can excuse our own failure to forgive. “But they hurt me too badly,” we say. Or “They never said they were sorry.” Or even, “I did try to express my apologies, but they refused to accept them.” Jesus, however, didn’t include an exception clause in His instructions. He made clear that we cannot be close to God when our relationship with another person has broken. Forgiveness is to start fresh, to have a new beginning. This new beginning doesn’t apply only to the other person. It also applies to us. A lack of forgiveness is like a closed door that prevents us from going any further, but forgiveness opens the door to new possibilities. In other words, when we forgive, we bring new hope into the world.

You know, Jesus, how hard it is for me to forgive certain people in my life. Teach me the words to say and the actions to take that will lead to a restoration of this relationship. Show me how to set healthy boundaries even as I forgive. Bring new hope to this relationship, I pray.