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3 Ways to Lose Guilt and Find Joy

3 Ways to Lose Guilt and Find Joy
3 Ways to Lose Guilt and Find Joy

Guilt is a common emotion that many women struggle with on a daily basis. It’s easy to get caught up in the demands of life and feel like we’re not doing enough, or that we’re not doing things perfectly. But the truth is, we are all imperfect beings, and it’s important to learn how to lose guilt and find joy in our lives.

One of the first steps to losing guilt is acknowledging that we are not perfect. We all make mistakes, and it’s okay to do so. It’s important to learn from our mistakes and move on rather than dwelling on them and feeling guilty. Apologizing when we’ve hurt someone is important, but forgiving ourselves and moving forward guilt-free is also important.

Another key to losing guilt is recognizing that there are things in life we have no control over. Whether it’s our children’s sports injuries or something else entirely, it’s important to trust that God has a plan and that everything happens for a reason. When we let go of our need to control everything, we can find peace and joy in the present moment.

Lastly, it’s important to remember that we can’t do it all. We must prioritize our time and focus on what’s most important. It’s okay to ask for help when we need it, and it’s okay to let some things go in order to focus on what truly matters. By doing so, we can find more joy and fulfillment in our lives rather than feeling guilty for not being able to do everything perfectly.

Guilt is a common emotion many women struggle with, but learning how to let go of it and find joy in our lives is important. By acknowledging that we’re not perfect, recognizing that there are things we can’t control, and prioritizing our time, we can live a more joyful and fulfilling life.

There’s another place we need to turn when dealing with guilt too.

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” – Matthew 11:28-29. This Scripture reminds us that we don’t have to carry the burden of guilt alone. By coming to Jesus and learning from him, we can find rest for our souls and live a more joyful and fulfilling life.

Perfection is impossible, so don’t let guilt hold you back. Learn how to lose guilt and find joy in life. Acknowledge imperfection, forgive yourself, trust God’s plan, and prioritize your time.

Takeaways:

  1. Let go of guilt and embrace joy in your life.
  2. Perfection is impossible, so don’t let guilt hold you back.
  3. Trust in God’s plan and let go of your need to control everything.
  4. Prioritize what’s important and let go of the rest to find more joy.
  5. Forgive yourself for your mistakes and move forward guilt-free.

Additional Resources:

Looking for a way to let go of guilt and embrace joy in your life? Look no further than Heart Happy by Tricia Goyer! In this must-read book, Tricia shares powerful insights on how to break free from the burdens of guilt and find true happiness. With practical tips on how to let go of the need for perfection, trust in God’s plan, prioritize what’s truly important, and forgive yourself for your mistakes, Heart Happy is the ultimate guide to living a guilt-free life. Don’t let guilt hold you back any longer – order your copy of Heart Happy today and start living your best life!

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When God Asks You to Return to Your Darkest Place

When God Asks You to Return to Your Darkest Place
When God Asks You to Return to Your Darkest Place

Our darkest place is usually something we want to put past us and ignore. But what do you do when God asks you to return to that place?

What is the darkest place in your life? A place of heartache? Or even sin? Without a doubt, my darkest place was when I walked away from God during my teen years. I became sexually active at a young age, and I chose to have an abortion at age 15. I found myself pregnant again—by the same boyfriend—at age 17 and the second time I chose life.

From the moment after I walked out of the clinic after by abortion, I regretted it. And the pain and shame hung around my neck for many years. In 1995 I attended a post-abortion Bible study, and I found hope and healing. I walked into freedom, and I was thankful that I was able to accept God’s forgiveness and forgive myself, yet the last thing I wanted to do was dwell on what I’d done. I wanted to bury the past in the past and pretend that it hadn’t happened. Yet we know that’s impossible. The past changes us in so many ways. Not only that but then I received the call.

God ASKED me to go back to my darkest place.

It all started in 1998 when my pastor approached me about starting a crisis pregnancy center. I was NOT interested. I was a full-time homeschooling mom and a part-time writer. More than that, I wanted to forget my bad choices … and I didn’t want to have to revisit my decision with every client who came in.

Yet when I prayed about it, God’s answer was clear: “What about the young women who need hope … just like you needed hope? Who will help them if you don’t?”

It wasn’t the answer I wanted to hear. I’ll admit it was hard going back to that dark place. I did have to share my story with others. I did have to re-live the pain again and again. Yet, each time I told my story it was easier to tell. I was also able to see the difference my story could make. God used me to help women because I had been there. I’d walked through the darkest places, and I found Jesus on the other side.

St. Patrick of Ireland

As I was thinking about my darkest place, I also thought about one of the stories in my book Prayers That Changed History. It’s about St. Patrick of Ireland.

Patrick’s trip to Ireland is one that horror stories are made of. At age 16 Patrick was kidnapped by raiders and taken to Ireland as a slave. From the book:

Ireland was a very different place than Britain. The people believed in very different things, including dark forces. Patrick had grown up with a family who believed in God and who made the Lord the center of their lives. The people in Ireland—the Druids—had ungodly ways. (Prayers that Changed History)

Years later Patrick turned to God. He credits the Holy Spirit for showing him how to escape. He finally made it home to Britain. Can you imagine his relief to walk in freedom again? I’m sure Patrick NEVER wanted to return to Ireland, but that’s where God led him.

Eventually, Patrick made it home, but he did not leave behind the memory of the people of Ireland. He continued to think about their great need for God. Patrick prayed for the people. Then one night, a dream came—one he never forgot.

In his dream, the people wanted to know about God, and they knew that Patrick was the one who could share the Good News with them …

Patrick left his family once again—this time by choice. (Prayers that Changed History)

Patrick returned to Ireland at the age of 40. Soon many monks journeyed with him. He spent 30 years telling thousands of people about Jesus, and because of the truth that he shared Ireland was changed.

Why did God send Patrick back to his darkest place? It’s the same reason why he sends us back to ours.

  1. We understand the pain.
  2. We understand the culture and language.
  3. We understand the need.
  4. We can communicate hope because we’ve been there, too.

Former drug dealers can talk real with current drug dealers. Former drunkards understand the pull of a drink. Women who’ve had affairs can tell other women how to turn back to faithfulness. Women who’ve had abortions can share the pain and shame. They can also share how to find healing through Jesus.

Tricia Goyer talking about when God asks you to return to your darkest place.

 

God asks us to go back to dark places not to burden us, but because there are those He wants to reach with HIS LIGHT.

God doesn’t need us to have any special talents or abilities, we just have to be willing to show up.

Because Patrick had been willing to go back to Ireland many people who lived in a pagan nation found Christ. Because I was willing to help start a crisis pregnancy center, over the years thousands of women have gotten the help they need … and hundreds of children have been born because their mothers realized that abortion wasn’t the right answer.

What about you? Where is the darkest place you’ve ever been? How has God brought you out? Take a moment to ponder your story.

Now, consider how you can go back to that place with the help and hope of Jesus. There are others out there waiting for you to bring them the Light!

Additional Resources

Prayers that Changed History Tricia Goyer

Get the book here.

More Posts About Prayers that Changed History:

 

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10 Surprising Habits for a Heart Happy Life

10 Surprising Habits for a Heart Happy Life: A Guide to Boosting Happiness and Nurturing Your Soul

A Guide to Boosting Happiness and Nurturing Your Soul

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to become overwhelmed and lose sight of what truly matters. We can get caught up in the demands of work, family, and daily responsibilities. We forget to take time for ourselves, our hearts, and our spiritual well-being.

Cultivating a happy heart and nurturing our souls are essential for a fulfilling life. In my book Heart Happy, I share 10 surprising habits to help us do that. Incorporating these habits into our daily routines can boost our happiness and strengthen our faith while enjoying a more fulfilling and meaningful life.

You might be surprised to learn that some of the most effective strategies are simple and easy to implement!

10 Habits for a Heart Happy Life

1. Practice Gratitude: “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:18. Taking time each day to reflect on what you’re grateful for can help shift your mindset and cultivate a more positive outlook.

2. Connect with Nature: “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.” – Psalm 19:1. Spending time outdoors, whether it’s going for a walk in the park or hiking in the woods, can help reduce stress and boost your mood.

3. Practice Mindfulness: “Be still, and know that I am God.” – Psalm 46:10. Mindfulness practices, such as meditation or yoga, can help you stay focused, even amid a busy day.

4. Nurture Your Relationships: “Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor.” – Romans 12:10. Cultivating solid and supportive relationships with friends and family can help you feel more connected and fulfilled.

5. Engage in Creative Pursuits: “In the beginning, God created…” – Genesis 1:1. Pursuing creative activities, such as painting or writing, can help you tap into your inner creativity and boost your self-expression.

6. Prioritize Self-Care: “Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own.” – 1 Corinthians 6:19. Taking time to care for yourself through exercise, getting enough sleep, or indulging in a relaxing bath can help you feel more centered and grounded.

7. Learn Something New: “Whoever gives thought to the word will discover good, and blessed is he who trusts in the Lord.” – Proverbs 16:20. Learning a new skill or taking up a new hobby can help you feel more accomplished and fulfilled.

8. Practice Forgiveness: “And whenever you stand praying, forgive, if you have anything against anyone, so that your Father also who is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.” – Mark 11:25. Letting go of grudges and resentments can help free you from negative emotions and promote a greater sense of inner peace.

9. Give Back to Others: “As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another as good stewards of God’s varied grace.” – 1 Peter 4:10. Volunteering or performing acts of kindness can help you feel more connected to your community and promote a greater sense of purpose.

10. Embrace God: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” – Proverbs 3:5-6. Whether through prayer, meditation, or other spiritual practices, nurturing your spiritual life can help you feel more grounded and connected to God.

By incorporating these habits into your daily routine, you can boost your happiness and nurture your soul, all while strengthening your faith. While they may seem simple, these practices have been shown to profoundly impact our well-being. So why not give them a try and see how they can transform your life?

Don’t miss my book, Heart Happy, available here!

Heart Happy: Staying Centered in God's Love During Chaotic Circumstances

Additional Resources:

Introducing Heart Happy by Tricia Goyer, the perfect guide to finding joy and peace amidst the chaos of life. As a busy mom of ten, author, speaker, and caregiver, Tricia knows firsthand the importance of soul care and finding happiness from within. In Heart Happy, she shares her journey to cultivating a happy heart rooted in God’s love and provides practical tips and encouragement for readers to do the same. Whether you’re overwhelmed or need inspiration, Heart Happy will help you find the peace and joy you deserve. Don’t miss out on this life-changing book. Get your copy of Heart Happy today!

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How to Trust God

 

She didn’t expect life to turn out like this. For the last few years she’d grown in her trust in and relationship with God. She’d been a strong support for her family. She’d thought she’d done everything right . . . but had God even noticed? Standing at her brother’s funeral she didn’t think so. Surely God could have stopped this tragedy. Didn’t Jesus care?

The “she” I’m talking about is Martha in the Bible. She’d seen Jesus heal, yet when her family needed his touch, Jesus was a no-show. Most of us know the biblical story about how Jesus finally showed up a few days later and called Lazarus from the grave. It was a healing they hadn’t expected, and I can guess that Martha went to sleep that night with a new sense of trust. Maybe Jesus knew what He was doing. Maybe she could truly trust Him after all.

Jesus told her, “I am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in me will live, even after dying. Everyone who lives in me and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this, Martha?” John 1:25-26

Jesus has asked me the same things many times—not with an audible voice, but in my spirit.

Do you believe? Do you trust me?

Do you trust I gave your child a strong will for a reason?

Do you trust this cross-country move is best for your family?

Do you trust I can do the work through you when you can’t imagine doing it yourself?

Do you trust this personal struggle of yours will be for your benefit—to cause you to turn to me, to need me, to surrender to me?

Do you trust?

In our lives, trust comes when we can’t see how God is going to bring any good out of the mess we’re in . . . and He does. Trust comes when our heart is breaking and Jesus shows up. 

“Yes, Lord,” she told him. “I have always believed you are the Messiah, the Song of God, the one who has come into the world from God.” John 11:27

Martha believed in her mind. But after she embraced her warm, fleshly, laughing brother, trust moved to her heart.

In my life there was a moment when I was seventeen and pregnant, when Jesus showed up in my depressed state and gave me a glimmer of hope. Deep inside I knew that He would be there for me.

Many, many times over the years He’s shown up again in dark moments. As I watch Him transform rejection, pain, hopelessness, and worry into avenues to extend His love and grace to me and to others, my trust grows.

Learning to trust reminds me of the broken, hurting children we’ve invited into our home over the years. John and I are a constant presence guiding them, loving them, embracing them, discipling them, and sharing our lives with them – but trust didn’t happen in one day, one week, or even six months.

Trust has grown when our children discover layers of love, grace, and help in everyday challenges. When they mess up, feel stuck, or find themselves overwhelmed, they’ve discovered we’re still there. And we’ll continue to show them how to do life in a loving, healthy way.

The only way to learn to trust God is to face each dark situation knowing that Jesus WILL show up. It may not be when we expect, or how we expect, but we can expect Him.

And when Jesus shows up, He’s going to behave in a way that’s different that we believe He will. He’s not going to give us what we think we need, but what we really need. Mostly, He’s going to give us Himself.

“If you’ll hold on to me for dear life,” says God, “I’ll get you out of any trouble. I’ll give you the best of care if you’ll only get to know and trust me. Call me and I’ll answer, be at your side in bad times; I’ll rescue you, then throw you a party. I’ll give you a long life, give you a long drink of salvation.” Psalm 91:14-16 (The Message)

How have you learned to trust God in your life?

Additional Resources:

Want to learn more about soul care and having a Happy Heart? Heart Happy: Staying Centered in God’s Love through Chaotic Circumstances will inspire you to stay tethered to the Lover of your soul. By taking time to make your heart happy in the Lord, you’ll grow closer to the Heavenly Father, fostering true transformation from the inside out. Peace and joy can be yours—no matter what life dishes up.

Building up Your Faith When Your World is Falling Apart — Tricia chats with author Michele Cushatt about making sure your faith is strong when times are hard.

 

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Live the Life God’s Called You To {+ FREE Printable}

Live the Life God's Called You To

Are you ready to live the life God’s called you to? It might not be easy, but it is simple. If I were to ask 100 people to name one of the most influential women of the last 100 years, my guess is that Mother Teresa would be at the top of everyone’s list. This humble servant captured the world’s heart with the way she cared for the poor and was forgotten, but many people don’t realize the mission of a woman started with the prayers of a little girl.

Live the Life God’s Called You To

Born Anjezë Gonxhe Bojaxhiu, “Agnes” grew up fascinated by the life of a missionary. I share this in my book Prayers That Changed History:

One Wednesday evening, she joined a group of preteen girls as they listened to a letter being read. It was from a local priest who’d left for the mission field in India. Tears filled Agnes’ eyes.

Agnes heard about the poverty and suffering of those in India. She listened as the letter told about the cruel caste system. The caste system meant that from birth there were those who would grow up only being allowed to work with garbage and human waste.

They could never get a better job, just because they were born into a certain family.

After the letter was read, Agnes turned to her friend, “Mary, wouldn’t it be wonderful to be a missionary? I want to help people and bring them God’s love.” At thirteen years old, Agnes knew she wanted to commit herself to God’s service in India, but her friends didn’t understand. Why wouldn’t she just stay in Skopje—where so many were in the need of the same thing?

When the meeting was over, Agnes slipped into the church to pray alone. “Lord, show me the way.” (Prayers that Changed History).

Agnes grew up and took her vows as a Catholic nun on May 14, 1937. She chose to be named after Thérèse de Lisieux, the patron saint of missionaries and went by the Spanish spelling Teresa. She started teaching school in Calcutta, but her mind and heart continually turned to the poverty surrounding her in Calcutta. She later left teaching to live amongst and care for the poor, and she gained attention for her work in 1969 after a short documentary film called Something Beautiful for God.

What I love about Mother Teresa’s story is that God called her as a young girl, and it’s a calling she clung to.

I’m no Mother Teresa, but I understand. In my early 20s, I felt a stirring to write articles and books, but I wasn’t sure if that was God’s plan for me. My friend Robin Jones Gunn encouraged me to look back at my life and take inventory of the passions that God put in my life at a young age. I grew up loving to read, and I spent a lot of time in the library. I loved books and stories. By looking back I discovered my truest self—who God called me to be. By looking back I understood my call going forward. God placed my love of story in my heart at a young age because He had big plans for me to use that for His glory.

Maybe you’re questioning your call. Here are a few things to consider as you seek to live the life that God’s called you to:

The Call on Your Life is Placed There by God

You made my whole being.
You formed me in my mother’s body.
I praise you because you made me in an amazing and wonderful way.
What you have done is wonderful.
I know this very well.
You saw my bones being formed
as I took shape in my mother’s body.
When I was put together there,
you saw my body as it was formed.
All the days planned for me
were written in your book
before I was one day old.

(Psalm 139: 13-16 ICB)

God designed you and has a plan for you. The closer you draw to Him, the more you’ll discover what His plan is.

The Call on Your Life is Your Own

1 Corinthians 7:17 (ESV) says, “Only let each person lead the life that the Lord has assigned to him, and to which God has called him.”

It’s easy to compare ourselves with others. We believe that following God must look a certain way. We think that we must be called to a certain ministry or act the same way as a key Christian leader. But this shouldn’t be. There is only one Corrie Ten Boom, one St. Patrick, and one Mother Teresa. Instead, be the person God has called you to be. He has a plan for you.

The Call on Your Life Will Benefit Others

God does not give you a purpose and call to benefit yourself. Your unique gifts and talents aren’t to be used to make you rich or allow you to live in comfort. Instead, there’s a world that needs to be reached with the good news of Jesus Christ. Mother Teresa did not serve the poor to gain worldwide attention—although the attention she received furthered her cause. I don’t write to hit the best-seller’s list, I write to share the truth of Christ in ways that will impact people’s hearts—yet sometimes these messages cause the books to sell well.

1 Peter 4:10 (NLT) says, “God has given each of you a gift from his great variety of spiritual gifts. Use them well to serve one another.”

If you’re using your gift and calling to benefit yourself more than others, you’re using it wrong.

Tricia Goyer shares in Live the Life that God's Called You To

The Call on Your Life Demands Faithfulness and Trustworthiness

There are many people who do great things. Mother Teresa isn’t the only one who has fed the poor and cared for the sick and dying. What stands out to us is that she did it in the name of Jesus, as a servant of Jesus.

So then, let us [who minister] be regarded as servants of Christ and stewards (trustees, administrators) of the mysteries of God [that He chooses to reveal]. In this case, moreover, it is required [as essential and demanded] of stewards that one be found faithful and trustworthy. 1 Corinthians 4:1-2 AMP

One of the mysteries of God is that He desires to show His strength through our weakness. If we think we can handle things ourselves and we don’t need God we don’t truly understand His grace. We should be thankful for every time we fall flat on our faces or feel like giving up.

2 Corinthians 12:9 says, “But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.”

Tricia Goyer shares in Live the Life that God's Called You To

 

It’s only when we are weak and needy that we realize that we need God. In light of eternity, those who have everything on earth and miss out on God have nothing.

“God blesses those who are poor and realize their need for him, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs.” Matthew 5:3 (NLT)

Those who give the most to others need God the most. And when they need Him the most they turn to Him the most. And when they turn to Him the most they discover Him the most. Not only are the lives of others changed, but their lives are too.

Tricia Goyer shares in Live the Life that God's Called You To

Mother Teresa depended on God. Here is one of her prayers that I share in Prayers that Changed History:

Dear Jesus, help me to spread the fragrance everywhere I go. Flood my soul with Thy spirit and love. Penetrate and possess my whole being so utterly that all my life may only be a radiance of Thine. Shine through me and be so in me that every soul I come in contact with may feel Thy presence in my soul. Let them look up and se no longer me but only Jesus. Stay with me and then I shall begin to shine as you shine, so to shine as to be a light to other. ~Mother Teresa

Live the Life God’s Called You To

Friend, God has a call on your life that will benefit others and will demand you to be faithful to Him. Yet He doesn’t place a call on you and send you off alone. He will be there every step of the way.

To live the life God’s called you to may be more difficult than you ever imagined, but you’ll discover God in new ways as you serve others in His name … just like Mother Teresa.

Tricia Goyer shares an important lesson we can learn from Mother Teresa about how to live the life God's called you to.

 

Click here to download the printable!

Prayers that Changed History Tricia Goyer

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6 Ways to Find Joy in Your Day {Printable!}

6 Ways to bring joy to your day

6 Ways to Find Joy in Your Day {Printable!}

As a homeschooling mom, I’ve had kids at home for 32 years. This means noisy days, busy days, and these kids-are-giving-me-a-headache days.

I’ve been homeschooling for 28 years and still have another seven years to go! Does that seem overwhelming? It would have been if I hadn’t discovered something amazing: JOY!

Over the last year, God has spoken to my heart and encouraged me to find joy in everyday living.

Joy, even though the laundry is piled high.

Joy, even though the kids are cranky.

Joy when work deadlines are pressed.

Joy when I have a headache when my feet hurt, and when I just want a nap. (Which happens often!)

But how do you find joy in your day?

 

Here are 6 ways … and a Scripture verse for each!

1. Thank God for each new morning.

A thankful heart goes a long way. Daily when I wake God, instead of looking at everything I have to do, I thank him for who I am and what I have.

Thank you, God, that I’m your daughter, and I have a place in your eternal home.

Thank you, God, that I’m a wife and mother.

Thank you, God, for the pile of laundry and all the clothes you’ve provided for us.

Thank you, God, for the dishes still in the sink from last night. We went to bed with full bellies.

Printable Scriptures - TriciaGoyer.com

2. Turn on worship music.

I love listening to worship music as I read my Bible and journal in the morning. I put on popular Christian songs as we homeschool. I also listen to Christian music as I write. I love using apps like Spotify or Amazon Prime Music to help me find great music. I also sing along! Singing songs of joy helps sorrows (and frustrations) to disappear!

Printable Scriptures - TriciaGoyer.com3.  Ask God to remind me what His kingdom is all about.

In life, I want to be comfortable. I want my house to be Pinterest-worthy. I want my kids to shine. But when I think about God’s kingdom, He helps me understand Kingdom Work. Opening my door to neighbors. Sharing God’s truth with young moms. Calling a friend who’s going through a hard time. Playing a board game with my kids instead of putting away the laundry. The Kingdom is about people and hearts–not tasks!

Printable Scriptures - TriciaGoyer.com 4. Seek the Holy Spirit.

When did I ever start thinking that I have to handle life alone? God has given us His Holy Spirit to fill, work through, and give us peace. Stopping to pray and ask for God’s Holy Spirit to help me makes a huge difference. The Holy Spirit gives me joy when I have none.

The Holy Spirit gives me joy when I have none. @TriciaGoyer

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Printable Scriptures - TriciaGoyer.com

5. Join the kids in praising God.

The best thing about having three little kids is that they LOVE to praise God. We have “Jesus dance parties” often. We put on kids praise song, clap our hands and dance and sing. They love it, and seeing their joy makes me more joyful.

Printable Scriptures - TriciaGoyer.com

6. Thank God for troubles.

The honest truth is that without troubles, I wouldn’t need God. If everything went smoothly in life I wouldn’t pray or praise as often. When I thank God for troubles, I remind myself that He has everything in control. As the Scriptures say, troubles are an opportunity for joy!

Printable Scriptures - TriciaGoyer.com

I hope you print and use these Scriptures in your day. I’ve found them very helpful.

Download here.

How about you? What do you do to find joy in your day? What’s your favorite Scripture about joy?

Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father, today I pray for my friend. I pray that she may find joy in you. I pray that Your Word will draw her heart to you. I thank you for your Holy Spirit that can plant joy deep in our hearts, even when there are struggles all around.

More Resources

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8 Scripture Verses to Bring Rest to Your Spirit

Today Tricia shares 8 Scripture verses to bring rest to your spirit, plus enjoy the free printable.

 

Over the last few years, John and I have adopted seven kids. Seven times the amount of laundry. Seven more kids who need attention. Seven times the mess. (But sometimes the mess seems like 70×7!)

In my life, there is little time for rest. “Rest” to me means a Sunday afternoon rest, a cup of coffee and my Bible in the morning, or listening to soothing music as I make dinner.

Yet even in the midst of my busy life, there is always one place where I can find true rest—spirit rest—and that’s within the pages of my Bible. Rest is not only stillness of body, but it’s also stillness of spirit.

Moving seven new kids into our house means lots of challenges. Most of these kids come from foster care, and this means they come packed with a few suitcases and lots of trauma, heartache, and pain. Even more overwhelming than the busyness and mess are my anxious thoughts and worries about these kids who make me weary to the bone. It’s then that I turn to God’s Word and find joy, peace, and rest. There is nothing better to bring rest to my spirit.

Here are Scripture verses that I turn to bring rest to my spirit:

1. Proverbs 3:5-6

Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. (NIV)

2. Philippians 4:6

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. (NIV)

3. Matthew 6:34

Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. (NIV)

4. Psalm 4:8

In peace, I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, LORD, make me dwell in safety.

5. 1 Peter 5:7

Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.

6. Exodus 14:14

The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still.

7. Psalm 13:6

I will sing the LORD’s praise, for he has been good to me.

8. Psalm 116:7

Return to your rest, my soul, for the LORD has been good to you.

 

Do you need to bring rest for your spirit?

Read the Scriptures.

Turn to God’s Word.

Soak in His truth.

Lift your mind and heart to Him.

 

Takeaways:

  • Find peace for your soul by reading the Scriptures.
  • Discover rest for your spirit in the pages of God’s Word.
  • Let God’s truth rejuvenate your soul and bring you rest.
  • Experience renewal by soaking in the life-giving words of the Bible.
  • Lift your heart and mind to God through the power of His Word.

Enjoy this free printable PDF:

Enjoy this free printable from Tricia Goyer. 8 Verses to give you rest.

 

When you find rest inside you, it will impact your attitude toward everything around you. Even if the kids are screaming, the house is a mess, and the day is long, the rest of your soul will help you carry on.

What about you? What Scripture do you turn to when your soul needs rest?

Along with being in scripture, praying through the Bible is another way to grow closer in your relationship with the Lord.

Praying through the Bible in a year

Have you ever wanted to read through the Bible but found yourself giving up? Or even worse, you read the chapters and, in the end, question how they apply to your life. Tricia Goyer understands. For years she felt frustrated that she couldn’t stick to her commitment to reading God’s Word all the way through. Things changed when she found a doable plan and wrote a daily prayer. Tricia’s heart changed. Her life did, too. God can bring real transformation into your heart and life when you daily commit to reading your Bible and praying through God’s Word. Praying through the Bible in One Year offers a guided reading plan and a daily prayer starter to help you apply God’s Word to your life. Discover the inspiration for real-life transformation.

Go to the Book

 

Bonus:

If you’re a busy parent like Tricia, you know that life can get overwhelming at times. With ten kids, she’s no stranger to the challenges that come with parenting. But despite the chaos, Tricia has found a way to find true rest – and she wants to share her secrets with you!

In Heart Happy, Tricia shares her journey of finding rest amid a busy life. She shows you how to turn to God’s Word to find peace, joy, and comfort in the midst of your struggles. Whether you’re dealing with the challenges of parenthood, work, or just everyday life, Heart Happy will help you find the rest you need to keep going.

So why wait? Order your copy of Heart Happy today and start finding true rest in the midst of your busy life!

Go to the Book

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Help and Healing From Porn

Many need healing From Porn in the Czech Republic and, if you know me, you know that half of my heart is in there. From my first visit in 2000, I felt connected to the country in a way that I cannot explain. I have prayed for the Czech people since that time, and God has answered these prayers in amazing and unexpected ways. In addition to now having Czech family members, God has birthed an amazing ministry there to help people who are addicted to porn find freedom. How amazing is God?!

Pete Lupton is a director of an NGO in the Czech Republic called NePornu (“no to porn”). This organization focuses not only on raising awareness of the dangers of pornography, but also helps people struggling with porn addiction, their partners, parents, or church leaders. Please read Pete’s story and consider donating to this amazing ministry. Pete is a family friend, and I’m honored to know him! Every small gift can make a HUGE difference to men and women coming to freedom!

Help and Healing From Porn in the Czech Republic

TG: Pete, what led you to start the NePornu project?

I myself used to be addicted to porn. I come from a broken family with lots of issues including domestic violence and alcohol addiction. So when I discovered porn around the age of 11, I got hooked up pretty quickly, since it was a form of escape from the reality that I experienced at home.

Then I became a Christian at the age of 15 and realized that I am actually addicted to porn, so I tried to quit. But I felt really alone within the church and I was afraid to talk about this issue, so I kept on struggling myself for about 10 years.

When I finally got free, I also got the opportunity to start this project. And from the start, I knew that our main slogan has to be “You are not alone in this!”

TG: Ok, and what did actually help you get free from your addiction?

Well, I tried everything and nothing worked. Looking back I can see that the main problem was that I was trying to keep it a secret from everyone. And this may surprise you, but the breaking point actually happened after one of your seminars that you taught with your husband and that I attended with my wife here in the Czech Republic. You talked a lot about honesty in marriage, and so on the way back home I confessed to my wife that I was addicted to porn. So thank you for that!

Later, I started an accountability group with some men in our church, and that helped as well. Suddenly, all the things that didn’t work before started working. I limited my access to porn, I worked on recognizing my triggers, I started working on creating healthy habits, and so on. But since anonymity is considered one of the main problems behind porn addiction, being open about it with my wife and friends was the most important step towards freedom.

TG: How do you specifically help people addicted to porn?

Raising awareness is a big part of the process because many people are still not aware that one can develop an addiction to porn. So, we write articles, publish life stories of people struggling with this issue, and make podcasts.

We’ve also created a number of online courses for people addicted to porn on how to overcome the addiction. We also have an online course for spouses on how they can deal with the information that their partner is addicted to porn, and how they can possibly help them. We have an online course for church leaders on how to open this topic within the church.

For your readers, it might be especially interesting that we have an online course for parents on how to open this issue with their kids.

As for the help itself, we offer main online coaching through emails, and we are working on local support groups called Pornoholics Anonymous. Our main goal is to help the addicts be set free, and we try to accompany them on their journey towards freedom. Not to mention, that everything we do is free for our clients.

TG: As a NGO, what are your current needs?

We are always looking for new e-coaches (volunteers) that would help our clients, but they would have to speak Czech 🙂

However, as a NGO, we raise funds to cover everything that we do. The budget for this year is 66,000 USD, and we still need to raise about 20,000 USD to cover the whole budget. This also includes the process of translating Good Pictures, Bad Pictures books into Czech, which will help the parents to open this topic with their children.

If someone would like to support us, here are ways to do it:

  • Donate through JARON Ministries International (especially for US citizens)
  • Donate through Darujme (especially for EU citizens)
  • Donate directly to our Czech Bank account:
    • IBAN: CZ27 2010 0000 0026 0174 5437
    • BIC/SWIFT: FIOBCZPPXXX

 

Help and Healing From Porn in the Czech Republic

Thank you for taking the time to learn about what NePornu is doing in the Czech Republic to aid those who need help and healing from porn. Together, we can make a difference and bring the light of Christ to those struggling with porn addiction.

 

Also, want a wonderful way to connect with your spouse and foster healing? Download and print this Couples Bible Reading Plan.

 

 

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7 Truths about Walking Out God’s Word

These 7 Truths about Walking Out God’s Word can help you find peace as you pursue God’s purpose in your life. I’ve learned that when I follow His ways I can rest knowing He holds my life in His hands. He is faithful, friend. He will give you the life you desire if you trust Him with the details. Let’s look at how we can do that.

 

7 Truths about Walking Out God’s Word

What God has accomplished through me always amazes people, as an author of 70 books, conference speaker, and mom of ten kids, they want to know how I do it all. Truthfully, I don’t do it all. There is a lot I say no to. But I’ve ended up where I am due to one determination. I’ve just committed to reading God’s Word and walking it out. When I take these steps to walk out God’s Word, He provides me with all I need to fulfill His call.

Twenty-eight years ago, I was a 17-year-old teen mom who committed her life to Jesus and dared to believe God could make something out of her life. Seeing the destructive path I was on, I dared to read God’s Word and do what it says. I talk about my journey in my newly released book Walk It Out: The Radical Result of Living God’s Word One Step At A Time, and here are a few things I’ve learned in the process:

1. God’s mandates are given for a reason.

Whether you realize it or not, God intended for us to do what the Bible says: take the gospel into all the world, care for the vulnerable, help the needy, tend to our most important relationships. These are guideposts that point us down the path of true living and eternal life.

For many years I assumed God’s will for my life was all about me. But as I actually did what the Bible said, I discovered there was a large world out there who needed Jesus, and God had a part for me to play. Yes, I found true living and eternal life for myself, but as I follow God’s mandates I was able to share God’s Good News with others who found true living and eternal life, too.

As we choose to walk out God’s desires for this world, we model for our children a better way to live. When we prayed and ask God what matters to Him, He will open our eyes to those around us who needed help and hope. And as we extend love to others, God’s love flows through us. When we allow Scripture’s mandates to direct our lives, we’ll discover a God-designed mission that will excite and delight us. Isn’t this the type of life we want to model for our kids?

As a young mom, I was asked to help start a crisis pregnancy center. I didn’t think I had time, but God reminded me of those who reached out to me when I was a teen mom, giving me hope. I started a weekly support group in 2000, and I’m still leading one today. My heart is full and I find great joy telling young women that they matter to God and that their children matter. Watching my passionate service, each of my adult children have discovered their own passions in varied and unique ministries. They reach out to others as they were shown.

3. Walking out God’s Word takes action.

It’s important to know God’s Word, but the time comes when God’s Spirit whispers, “Are you done learning about Me, and are you ready to connect with Me?” After we fill our minds with head knowledge, God wants us to place our feet on the ground and act. He wanted me to have a living faith that was undeniable to me and to all those He brought into my life. But the walking part is important. As James 1:22 says, “But don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves,” (NLT).

4. To walk out what God’s Word we need to depend on Him.

“I used to ask God to help me,” said Hudson Taylor, humble missionary and founder of the China Inland Mission. “Then I asked if I might help Him. I ended up by asking Him to do His work through me.”

These words resonate with me because God took me on the same journey from independence to dependence. I’ve never needed God so greatly as I do when I walk out His mandates. When I’ve cried to Him in desperation; I’ve turned to Him in prayer more than ever. And that’s exactly where He wants me—wants each of us—to be.

We want to walk out God’s directive to share with those in need, but we often don’t know what that looks like. Seeing all the needs can be overwhelming. That’s why it’s important to ask, “God what is the one thing You need me to do today?” Then, do that, knowing God will tell the next step as needed.

6. Our calling is to become more like Jesus.

What is God calling us to do? How is He asking us to help and love the poor or to care for lost sinners? We can see how God wants us to act by seeing how Jesus loved and cared for people. Our calling isn’t to a specific job or ministry. Our calling is to walk as Jesus did.

7. Know your steps of faith define your future.

Dare I say it? Sometimes we step out of God’s will for us today because we’re trying to figure out what He has planned for us tomorrow—for our future. But when we walk out God’s directives and take steps of self-sacrifice, love, service, and compassion, we will discover God’s purpose for our future, and our family’s future, because our faithful steps will lead us to it.

“Who we choose to become and how we choose to live every day creates a trajectory for everything else,” said author Jerry Sittser. “Perhaps that is why the Bible says so little about God’s will for tomorrow and so much about what we should do to fulfill his will today.”

For years I tried to figure out God’s will for my life, but as I followed God’s Word—one step after another—I found myself in the center of God’s will. All I’ve accomplished has resulted from faithful steps of doing what the Bible says. Of course, the greatest success isn’t what I’ve done, but who’ve I’ve become on this journey with God. And who my children have become as they’ve followed me.

 

This post originally appeared here: https://www.crosswalk.com/faith/bible-study/7-truths-about-walking-out-god-s-word.html

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6 Ways to Craft a Family of Purpose

Do you want to craft a family of purpose and chase God together? That doesn’t just happen by accident. Living a lifestyle with the freedom to follow God’s call requires us to be intentional. Let me share the steps we took to order our family so we could make an impact on the world for Jesus.

6 Ways to Craft a Family of Purpose

Many years ago my husband John and I set up a framework for our family. Identifying our priorities and eliminating what didn’t fit helped us to establish a family life filled with meaning and purpose, one that included the space to follow God wherever He would lead. Stated another way, we formed (created) our family value system and framework before we filled (added things into our lives.) The idea of forming and filling isn’t something we came up with on our own. It came from the first pages of the Bible.

In the first three days of creation, God “formed.” He established supportive systems necessary for life and humankind‘s existence. He created the heavens and the earth. He separated the waters from the land. He built the framework that would sustain his creation. The last three days, God “filled.” He filled his creative world with plants, flowers, animals, and humankind.

Problems come when we fill our weekly and monthly schedules before we build a structure for them. We make decisions out of our emotions or desires without contemplating their impact on us or our family. But as I’ve experienced, this never works. Few good things ever happened by accident. As John and I consider the type of people we wanted to be in the type of children we wanted to raise, Six priorities rose to the top.

Identifying our priorities and eliminating what didn’t fit helped us to establish a family life filled with meaning and purpose . . .

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6 Ways to Craft a Family of Purpose

1. Attending Church

For us, church attendance has never been optional. God‘s Word is clear on this. We read in Hebrews 10:25  “And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near” (NLT).

Attending church is important for our family and we are happy to set aside time to honor the Lord and gather with other believers.

2. Serving Others Together

We wanted our kids to learn how to serve, even from a young age. When I launched Hope Pregnancy Center, they helped remodel our ministry building by pulling up carpet and picking up trash. They folded baby clothes and stacked diapers. My daughter Leslie even babysat for a teen mom support group. At first I felt guilty. Other kids were outside playing or hanging out with friends, but I soon discovered that our kids were proud of their efforts, and it became easier for them to serve in other ways.

3. Reading the Bible and Praying Together

Every school Day morning we read from the Bible and a devotional book, then pray together. We do this first thing. I want to show my kids that reading the Bible is always a priority.

John and I also read the Bible and pray with each other in the mornings. We don’t succeed every day, but we do it most days. Our youngest children are often awake at that time, and though they know they can’t interrupt, they love watching us. Sometimes when I open my eyes after praying I find three little kids sitting at our feet, listening to every word. It is especially sweet when later, during their prayer time, I hear my words repeated as they pray for family members and concerns. Although having kids watch me while I pray sometimes feels awkward, I know it’s important.
It models for them what a healthy spiritual life can look like.

4. Eating Family Dinner Together

John and I decided our kids knowing each other and us was important, as well as face-to-face connection while eating a meal around the table. During family dinners we talk about our day and enjoy the conversation. We expect our kids to help out with these meals. Some of them help cook dinner, others set the table. Afterward our kids help clear the table and put away food, unload and load the dishwasher, wash pots and pans, wipe down the counters and sweep the floor. Together all these activities teach our children what being part of a family is all Out.

Reading at bedtime together one of my favorite times of the day is when I get the little kids settled in at night and it’s time to read. We turn off all electronics, the kids get ready for bed, and then we sit down together. Our adult kids still look back on reading time with fondness. We’ve never regretted the time we spent together within the pages of a book.

6. Supporting Everyone’s Talents and Activities Together.

Whenever one of our children is involved in an activity, we show up as a family to support them. This has included attending football games to watch our daughter in the marching band we’re going to statewide basketball games for our son. We want our children to know they are uniquely special and their whole family is cheering them on. These priorities lead to habits that fostered a more focused and settled spirit as a family.

I have no doubt that if John hadn’t stepped in and helped me learn to create white space and consider our family priorities and foundation, at least part of the foundation would’ve been built on sand. You can only be blown in so many different directions for so long without collapsing like a house of cards. Thankfully our family is now strongly structured and focused on the purposes God has for us together.

What causes you to add activities to your schedule? Do you worry about what others will think or fear that you’re not doing enough? Feelings of inadequacy and a desire to prove yourself can lead to disappointment. This week name one thing God is asked you to join him in but you have been unable to do because you haven’t had the time and space. How could you re-order your priorities and what activities or commitments could you give up to make room for God‘s calling on your life?

6 Ways to Craft a Family of Purpose

Want to learn more about how our family has made choices that support our goal of following God together? You might enjoy my book Walk It Out! Available now in my online shop: Walk It Out

Women often pack their lives with family, friends, and faithful service, yet still, end up feeling empty and unfulfilled. In Walk It Out, Tricia Goyer demonstrates to women that walking out the mandates of Scripture allows God to spark passion and mission within them.

Whether believers realize it or not, God intended for them to do what the Bible says: adopt the orphan, take the gospel into all the world, and care for the needy. These are mandates that point believers down the path of true living and eternal life.

Sometimes those steps are easy, but many times they require a move outside of what feels safe or secure. When women stop focusing on their own dreams and purposes and instead focus on God’s dreams and purposes, everything changes.

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4 Ways YOU Can Bring God Glory | Kristen Tiber

These 4 Ways YOU Can Bring God Glory from Kristen Tiber will help you focus on making an impact for the Kingdom where you are today. Your message matters and you can bring His hope to a hurting world. Let Kristen’s words encourage you in this guest post.

4 Ways YOU Can Bring God Glory

Have you ever thought about the great heroes of our faith only to be left feeling a little insignificant? After all, did you care for the poor by the thousands, preach on the world’s stage or stir revival in the hearts of a nation? When we compare ourselves to some of those great men and women throughout history, it can be tempting to think that we have to accomplish huge feats and be at the center of attention in order to bring God any glory. But that couldn’t be further from the truth! God’s eyes are on you and His heart is for you. No life is too small to make an impact for the Kingdom and bring glory to the Father!

But how do we do it? What are some ways we can live our lives in order to bring Him glory? Believe it or not, it can be pretty simple. Not necessarily easy, but simple.

4 Ways YOU Can Bring God Glory

 

1. Be obedient.

Our culture doesn’t like the idea of obedience and coming under someone’s authority. However, a life lived under the authority of God not only brings blessing to the follower, but it also brings glory to God. When we abide in His ways, when we walk according to His laws, we are showing the effect of what He has done in our lives. As followers of Christ, we need to pursue what His Word says and not what our feelings try to dictate. He and His Word are the standard, and our obedience becomes a witness to those around us.
“Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they may accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.” 1 Peter 2:12

2. Be patient.

Patience has become an abnormal practice for the world in which we live. With the incredible advances in technology, we don’t really have to wait for much. Whether it is our Amazon delivery, our quick Google searches, or our Instant Pot dinners, we have grown accustomed to the instantaneous and immediate. However, Scripture tells us that patience is a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22) and as we bear fruit, we show ourselves to be His disciples, bringing glory to the Father (John 15:8-11).

3. Examine and align the desires of our hearts.

What are the desires of our hearts? What is the motivation behind those desires? As believers, it would be good to take time to reflect on what it is we want and what it is that God may want for us. And on those occasions when our desires don’t line up with His, we would be wise to yield to God’s desires and plans for us. After all, the One who died for us, certainly has our best interests at heart. When we are walking in the path He has for us, we will give Him praise and glory!

4. Believe and trust God through times of suffering.

Throughout the New Testament, glory often appears alongside suffering. Paul connects the two ideas in his letters, and Peter often reminds his readers of coming glory in the midst of their suffering. And we also know Jesus experienced great suffering on the cross to be followed by His glorious resurrection. When we go through a season of suffering, we can find hope that not only will God infuse it with purpose, but also that we have a future glory to look forward to. (See Romans 8:16-18.)

When we can put the name of Jesus and His renown above our own wants and desires, above our own inclinations – when we can get through seasons of suffering with an expectation of how God will use it – we will see that the life of one person can indeed bring much glory to God, no matter how big or small.

Enter to win a copy of Greater Glory: Living Your Life to the Glory of God *Open International* Physical copies to be shipped to US addresses only*

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Kristen Tiber is an author, speaker, and women’s Bible study teacher. Currently, she and her husband, Dan, teach the high school Sunday school class at their church have enjoyed doing so for the last eight years. Kristen is a homeschooling mom to her two kids, Peter and Anna. A forever student of the Word of God, Kristen desires to see Jesus’ name and renown lifted up. She is passionate to see others grow in their love for Jesus and His Word. Her books include Teach Me To Serve, At The Well and Greater Glory. Kristen can be found at KristenTiber.com, where she encourages others to live with purpose in all seasons of life.

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More about Greater Glory: Living Your Life to the Glory of God

What does it mean to live for God’s glory?

Let’s find out together!  

Many people today will tell you that purpose is found in following your heart. Your career, relationship status, goals, and hobbies all center around discovering what you want and what makes you happy. But the Bible tells us that our purpose isn’t found inside ourselves. True purpose that will give us the greatest delight and satisfaction, that has the power to change the trajectory of our lives, is found in bringing God glory.

Join Kristen Tiber as she takes a fascinating look at the glory of God. As Kristen traces God’s glory chronologically through the Scriptures, you will look at: What is glory? How was it manifested? And what does it matter to us? You’ll discover meaningful purpose in your experiences and learn how YOU can bring God greater glory through your obedience, your patience, the desires of your heart, and your suffering.

This five-week women’s Bible study includes:

  • Individual daily assignments in the Greater Glory workbook
  • Free access to online, weekly Bible study videos streamed through www.KristenTiber.com
  • An optional Leader’s Guide for group study

This study can be used as an individual Bible study for women or for small groups.

Most women’s Bible study material today is geared for small groups in the church setting.  And while small groups wonderfully encourage fellowship, growth with others, and accountability, the price of the accompanying Bible study videos makes it near impossible for an individual to participate in the study alone.  Greater Glory is a 5-week Bible study workbook for small groups or the individual studying on her own.  Videos are free and accessed through www.KristenTiber.com.

Purchase a copy here.

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