For He Is Present

Open Your Bible

1 Kings 18:17-46, 1 Kings 19:1-16, Psalm 56:1-4, 1 Peter 3:13-17

Three years ago, my husband and I planted a church together, which means that half the life of our church has been spent in a pandemic. During that time, God has been undoubtedly faithful. Our church has grown and flourished, sometimes impossibly so, and we have marveled at His goodness again and again.

At the same time, we have faced a relentless flood of hard decisions, difficult conversations, and rejection. Despite all the good, we have felt anxiety, heartache, isolation, and pain, which is why I have returned to our reading in 1 Kings 19 a lot this year. For me, I see no better emotional portrait of a leader under stress. 

In this chapter, we encounter Elijah at his lowest. Although he has witnessed the miraculous power of God firsthand, here he is crushed in spirit. Jezebel is seeking his life, and he cries out to God in fear, despair, and a large helping of self-pity. Elijah is understandably distraught, but one thing worth noting about his lament is the slight inaccuracy. On the one hand, it makes sense that Elijah would feel alone. On the other hand, Elijah seems to think he is the only Israelite to remain faithful, which we know from 19:16 is simply not true. What this tells us, then, is that Elijah’s isolation is not simply caused by his circumstances, but his self-righteousness as well.

This is one of the surprising consequences of fear and anxiety. In our weariness and discouragement, we sometimes feed ourselves a narrative of martyrdom, that we are the only righteous ones left. That is exactly what is happening here, and yet God’s response is not to correct him. God knows full well that there are other faithful people, but God doesn’t get into any of those details, because He knows that isn’t really the issue. Instead, God extends a simple invitation: “Go out and stand on the mountain in the LORD’s presence.” 

Once there, God searches Elijah’s thoughts and emotions, and steadies him with His presence. By the end of the encounter, Elijah is revived and ready to lead once again. 

For anyone who has ever led in ministry—or simply stepped out in obedience to God—this story is a necessary gut check. While fear is a normal part of walking in faith, fear is also a liar. It bends reality ever so slightly, and one of its most common distortions is a perception of isolation that is fueled by self-righteousness. When we believe no one’s call is as hard as ours, or when we assume all other leaders are compromising but us, or when we bemoan that we alone are faithful, we are tumbling into an unreality of our own making.

When we do this, we have two options: to indulge the distortion without questioning it, or present it to God for Him to search. One feeds our pride, while the other restores our souls.  

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119 thoughts on "For He Is Present"

  1. Jessica Thomas says:

    I love that we can be restored in Spirit not by earthquake, wind and fire but by a gentle wisper. God was meet us in the quiet and replenish our souls so we may go back out into the world again and shine a light for him!

  2. Amber Brackett says:

    Thankful for a God that welcomes us into his presence and refreshes our souls!

  3. Lindsay Niumata says:

    I love how god no sisters to Elijah, rather than admonishing him. God knows what he needs in that moment and he is patient, kind, and loving. I also love the image and command of the Kings verse where God commands him to go out and stand in his presence, allowing God to nourish and refresh him. What a good father we have.

  4. Jennifer Murphy says:

    She encourages us to challenge our own thoughts, view them with a clear eye the way God sees them. It’s easy to wallow in old ways of thinking. Allowing God to shine a light on our thinking takes courage and willingness to change and take the hard route. However, it’s also encouraging. We are special to God. So much so that God will examine our thinking when we ask Him to, because we are beloved ones of God. God loves each of us and will help us seek courage to change and to do better. Seeking courage can also mean seeking God.

  5. Brittany Brooks says:

    Let your Faith be bigger than your fear

  6. Elizabeth Dunkerson says:

    Great reminder that we are not alone

  7. shelby tate major says:

    It is just and holy because it’s in the hands of God ♥️

  8. Riley Paige Lara says:

    This is so good. Fear has so often crippled me into thinking, “no one feels the way I do” — that I have to be the only one going through the battle. I love what she states in writing that God not only searches our emotions and thoughts but steadies them!

  9. Jen Beck says:

    Just the reminder i needed: God is always with me. He will protect and guide me in my troubles

  10. Monica Hughes says:

    Amen! Needed this

  11. Riley Johnson says:

    so GOOD

  12. Tierney Farry Gonnello says:

    We are never alone and can rest in keeping solidarity in many brothers and sisters who put their love and faith in God

  13. Anneliese Smucker says:

    So, so good

  14. Liz Ross says:

    A i julk

    13Now who is there to harm you if you are zealous for what is good?

  15. Kaitlyn Ashley says:

    So reassuring… and just what I needed to hear.

  16. Michele Tully says:

    I love that Elijah sees God do something miraculous and the right after that fears his own life. So similar to the disciples seeing Jesus do mighty works and then the very next day think he’s a ghost on the water. Such a great peek into our own souls of trust and worry, trust and worry. Oh, to hold on to the trust a little longer each time until it becomes all that we are. Thank you Jesus for the reminder that we all still have a ways to go but for the grace to show us that even the great models in the Bible didn’t yet have it all together.

  17. Abbie Merhoff says:

    i’m rly suffering right now but must know that i am not alone!!!

  18. Zanita Fletcher says:

    1 Kings 19 has also been a reminder for me that:
    – God is always there and He will bring angels to give us courage, comfort and strength to keep going.
    – God is not against you in your struggle. He is FOR YOU. He encourages, He strengthens, He gives you what you need.
    – God has a way forward. He gives you guidance on how to move forward.
    – God gives people for your journey to help you (He gave Elijah Elisha for the next 5 years).

  19. Zanita Fletcher says:

    1 Kings 19 has also been a reminder for me that:
    – God is always there and He will bring angels to give us courage, comfort and strength to keep going.
    – God is not against you in your struggle. He is FOR YOU. He encourages, He strengthens, He gives you what you need.
    – God gives people for your journey to help you (He gave Elijah Elisha for the next 5 years).

  20. Zanita Fletcher says:

    1 Kings 19 has also been a reminder for me that:
    – God is always there and He will bring angels to give us courage, comfort and strength to keep going.
    – God is not against you in your struggle. He is FOR YOU. He encourages, He strengthens, He gives you what you need.

  21. Zanita Fletcher says:

    1 Kings 19 has also been a reminder for me that:
    – God is always there and He will bring angels to give us courage, comfort and strength to keep going.

  22. Zanita Fletcher says:

    1 Kings 19 has also been a reminder for me that:

  23. Kinesha Cox says:

    So good!

  24. liv sebold says:

    I love this study because it shows that God is always there for us. We may struggle, but he works in miraculous ways and does everything for a reason!

  25. Valeria Melendez says:

    Elijah displayed the same unreasonable nature of unbelief and fear that I display when I allow my mind to speak on its own instead of speaking to God. Fear is a liar!!

  26. Ashley Schnack says:

    This was powerful. Im grateful for this study and the change in my heart and perception. The Spirit is working and moving through me… oh thank you Lord!

  27. Tara Beatty says:

    Thank you Lord for godly women who speak truth. I read this and then asked questions and sought answers. I ask forgiveness, Lord for my self-righteousness and that each day I would be reminded. I am battling anger in my loss journey right now. My mom unexpectedly and suddenly passed in November. My husband told me to go get a divorce attorney 2 weeks later. My father has been gone since I was 25. I am now 43. My husband and I are still together and seeking counsel, but I am angry. I am not angry at God, I am angry at my husband. There is a long story behind all of this- but know, I have tried for so long and now I am tired and sad and angry. I ask for prayer that I either lose my anger or that God walks me through it and teaches me from it and I move forward. Thank you all. Have a blessed weekend.

  28. Terri Baldwin says:

    Love this study!

  29. Shaena Elizabeth says:

    Beautiful devotion Sharon Hodde Miller!!! Fear is a liar that bends reality ever so slightly…wow I fall into the perception of isolation that is feed by self righteousness all too often. Thank you for the very practical breakdown of our two options 1. Indulge the distortion and feed my pride or 2. Present it to God for Him to search it and restore my soul!

  30. Kirsten Scheller says:

    Amen!!

  31. Pamela Randol says:

     God knew and provided Elijah with the strength to journey the 40 days to get him alone in his self righteous isolation! Thank you God

  32. Pamela Randol says:

    AMEN! Your choice of words also help me see this in a different perspective than how I interpreted it. Thank you for sharing.

  33. Pamela Randol says:

    God bless Sharon Hodde Miller!Thank you Lord for speaking truth to me through Sharon’s commentary today.
    I have been self righteous and I repent father God! And I have isolated. Jesus help me find a community of believers that I can have fellowship with. Thank you for meeting me on the mountain. I give you all the praise and glory Holy Father!

  34. Pamela Randol says:

    God bless Sharon Hodde Miller!Thank you Lord for speaking truth to me through Sharon’s commentary today. I have been self righteous and I repent father God! And I have isolated. Jesus help me find a community of believers that I can have fellowship with. Thank you for meeting me on the mountain. I give you all the praise and glory Holy Father!

  35. Lexi B says:

    I loved this from one of the ladies today- I got all the way to the end of the comments and forgot the names-

    God’s gentle Word, His Presence met Elijah in the wilderness and told him “go back the way you came.” Elijah had to go back the way he came to reframe and confront the fear that made him run to the wilderness in the first place.
    Such a good reminder for me- to go back and face what I fear.

    Praying for all the prayer requests listed here today. God is with you and you are not alone.

  36. Lizzy Butterfield says:

    The way God continues to show grace and mercy to all of us humans when we make silly mistakes over and over blows my mind. He is so good

  37. Anne S says:

    This devotion was powerful for me. Thank you for the reminder that fear can be so duplicitous because it twists reality rather than changing it completely. Thank you as well for the reminder not to isolate ourselves in self-righteousness. We all have made mistakes and sinned, and we all need forgiveness.

  38. Jennifer Urena says:

    What a great example from Elijah. It is easy to get overwhelmed but the greatness and goodness of God is bigger? His presence brings us everything we need. And how beautiful is it that even in our doubt and fear, after the fire we hear His voice. Hallelujah and Amen!

  39. Jordan Ogletree says:

    Great reminder that I am not the only one facing problems & humbling in the knowledge that there are others facing far worse things. The solution is and will always be to get into the presence of the lord!
    N

  40. Jordan Ogletree says:

    Great reminder that I am

  41. Kisa Davison says:

    Praying over you and your family Paulette. ❤️

  42. Ruth Long says:

    I take comfort in psalm 56, 3-4, and 8-11. It gives me the image of a father knowing his child has been crying when he discovers tear marks on the pages. Or saving tears up in a bottle. I take so much comfort in these beautiful words. They appeal to me because they are a little bit whimsical but sweet for the soul. I’ll rest in these words.

  43. Ruth Long says:

    @Gwineth52, love this Andrew sisters reference!

  44. Shannon Lowry says:

    Praying for you so deeply Paulette. As a child who witnessed a lot of physical abuse, please trust God to keep you company and safe in His Love.

  45. Leslie Gray says:

    Praying Paulette.

  46. Claire B says:

    Tina! You are always so up, praying for your weariness ♥️

  47. Linda Sheldon says:

    I’ll be praying for you and your family Paulette. Divorce is so painful. Set up your prayer closet and pray, pray, pray. The Lord will bless you!

  48. Paulette Montelone says:

    Feeling really sad today. 25 years ago today my husband proposed to me. Today I worked on gathering documents for our divorce. It’s been a marriage of many ups and downs but came to a sudden end last April due to his losing his temper which resulted in my bruised chin and broken arm. It all happened so fast. These 10 months have been difficult emotionally as I had to fight for a restraining order to protect myself and my kids. He is not a terrible person, but has anger issues. Today I miss him and the life we should have had. When we met, we were both actively involved in our church. Life and the stresses of raising 5 kids overtook us. Our marriage is over. And I am sad. Please pray for us.

  49. Casey Anderson says:

    Wow. Struck by how one moment, you’ve seen God set fire to everything. And have gathered up and slaughtered 450 men. Then to be afraid of a single woman? And to also, fall into a deep depression after having won a “battle”. Love that God is with us through both.

  50. Natasha R says:

    God is so close to us that He doesn’t need to shout. Just his sweet whisper is enough to calm and comfort us. He is RIGHT HERE.

  51. Natasha R says:

    God is so close to

  52. Mercy says:

    Reading today’s passage makes me realize the stress and exhaustion that Elijah felt was really real. So many times I have felt broken/drained in the middle of a mission, and I felt the mission impossible to move forward (surely I focused on myself), and many times I have begged God to choose someone else (send help or replacement) to carry out this mission for me. God knows we are made from dust, He knows our frame, and He gives us free choice.

    It just shows the mercy of God regardless of our limitation in understanding (there are still 7,000 people that we don’t see) and God is able to send enforcement no matter how lonely and exhausted we feel in our journey fighting for God. May we find rest and strength whenever we feel like Elijah.

    Thank you Angie for the break downs that you shared in today’s passage. I really love how you make it so digestable. You’re a great teacher on this platform as well. Bless you Angie.

    Praying for you Victoria E for your upcoming delivery. I just had our 3rd baby girl and leading up to the date I had so much fear of complications, of pain, etc. I prayed and prayed for safe and quick delivery, and God’s deliverance of all my fears- Psalms 34:6, and praise God He blessed me with a natural unmedicated delivery that was quick and stress free, and minimal pain (I didn’t even think that was even possible). But it is possible. I don’t know how but He numbed me of the pain -naturally. It’s somewhat supernatural, thats how I could describe it. May He do the same (and more) for you. God bless you.

  53. Monie Mag says:

    I love how our God shows up in this story, our great and faithful God. He shows up with such power and All the glory is His. He puts all the lies in their place, there is only one God and He will receive all the praise, he is for us and loves us.

  54. Colleen Politanski says:

    Go out and stand on the mountain in the Lords presence, “ oh my goodness so love this “

  55. Colleen Politanski says:

    Go out and stand on the mountain in the Lords presence

  56. Jennifer Martin says:

    ♥️

  57. Sky Hilton says:

    Happy Valentines Day dear sisters! God loves you!

    If I am meant to suffer persecutions for Jesus.. so be it! Besides I am here for Jesus, not the world!

  58. Julie Dodson says:

    How perfectly timed is this whole study and my phone background with the memory verse. A beautiful reminder on this day when my husband passed out and fell this morning leading to medics and ER and being admitted and alllll the tests. Thankful that He is with me through this day, keeping my heart at PEACE.

  59. Gwineth52 says:

    Hello Shes…This morning I was curious about the “broom” tree In the wilderness where Elijah fled for his life. It’s kind of juniper, a shrub really, with crowded leaves overshadowing. So there was Elijah, as one pastor whose commentary I read wrote: “falling from an incredible spiritual & emotional high to the deepest depths of despair under a lowly tree! The wilderness was the lonely place where only God could meet Elijah. And God didn’t rebuke Elijah, cajole, or say just snap out of it. God gave Elijah in his weakness grace & space to wear out his pity party, refuel & rest for a bit & then return “revived & ready” to do the works. I like, too, another line I came across, too dated for many Shes to “get”. “In the immortal words of the Andrew Sisters (girl group from the 40s)….God reminded Elijah, “Don’t sit under the juniper tree with anyone else but me”. Thanks be to God.

  60. K Swenson says:

    Happy Valentine’s Day, ladies! Regardless of what your relationship status is or what state your current relationship is in, I pray you feel the love of the Heavenly Father that you can never be separated from! Thankful to be on this journey with you.

  61. Rhonda J. says:

    I too, as I have read the Old Testament kept thinking- the same old story of turning their backs, why are they so crazy not to believe and trust??? And yet, look at society today…growing up in the 80″s, everyone I knew went to church and shows on tv displayed a Christian culture for the most part, and most activities were through the church youth group, and yet here we are. It seems the Christian numbers are falling off by the truckloads! It makes me so sad. Even in my everyday life, I ask, where is all the love that we see trying to make a stand again? The “Be Kind” shirts and hashtags…yet I see a selfish, me-mentality all around us. When singing and worshipping in church it makes me smile to look about and see all the people in reverence to our God, and then we go back to normal life. Does anyone else just feel so overwhelmed by this juxtaposition? I want so bad to just kneel and worship every minute…but who would feed my husband? haha…no that doesn’t work, that will be in heaven, but until then, I’m not going to let the fear of the lack of Christianity surrounding me overtake me, I’m going to look to be the light with the Holy Spirit helping me every second of the way.

    I love all the comments and sharing! This is such a wonderful, safe-space, and comfort. Have a great day dear friends! – R

  62. Tricia Cavanaugh says:

    Praying for each of your requests. Have a blessed day.

  63. Kylia Van Horn says:

    Thank you for this beautiful passage today! It’s just such a truth that I need to remind myself of! I am no better than anyone else and lord help me to focus on you and your ways! Lord I praise you for your word and this truth that I am just like one of these Israelites and like Elijah. I constantly worship other things and become proud of who I am and begin to feel alone. Thank you for your your presence in the valleys and mountain tops. Help me to not forget your promises and your presence!

  64. Patricia Stewart says:

    I love the authenticity of Elijah. His uses each of us and not one person is righteous where we escape the sin of fear and doubt. Every person of the Bible reminds me that I am not alone. And thank you Lord for living us where we are. Walking us forward with Grace.

  65. Lori Lackey says:

    This is so GOOD. In my fear and anxiety I need to feed myself truth and praise God, instead of feeding myself the narrative of martyrdom. I also appreciate how God doesn’t correct Elijah. I know that when I am sliding into anxiety and depression, it doesn’t matter what anyone says to me. (If I am honest, probably even God) I have to be in the word, and I have to spending time praising him. Then I am receptive to hearing and to change. Who am I that God loves me so?

  66. Amelia Page says:

    As a ministry leader, I am so thankful for todays devotion. I got so much out of todays Bible reading but none of it was what was covered in todays devotion. I needed both! Thank you SRT team. This study is a blessing already. I have thought so much about the comment made in last weeks podcast about Gods responding to fear based on if it’s rooted in past present or future circumstances. What a blessing. Thank you

  67. Amelia Page says:

    As a ministry leader, I am so thankful for todays devotion. I got so much out of todays Bible reading but none of it was what was covered in todays devotion. I needed both

  68. Michelle Patire says:

    Well, this is definitely convicting. I know the Lord needs to help me with my bouts of self-righteousness. I feel that way in my family when I see them living in ways I feel are compromising to culture or less than what I believe is best for them.

    God, please forgive me for my self-righteous attitude. I know I am imperfect in thousands of ways. Please help me to have grace for my family and help me have the fruits of righteousness, not self-righteousness.

    Mari V, my heart feels sad for you as I read your comment. As a runner, I understand the loss of that gift. May God restore that activity to you. If not, may you be given gifts that delight you just as much. In Jesus’s name.

    Melanie, May God comfort you and give you joy in His presence.

  69. Rea Queen says:

    God’s gentle Word, His Presence met Elijah in the wilderness and told him “go back the way you came.” Elijah had to go back the way he came to reframe and confront the fear that made him run to the wilderness in the first place.
    Thank you for gentle reassurance that I am not the only one. (You had 7000 faithful waiting for Elijah!) I am never alone. I trust you to meet me in and lead me out of all my wilderness seasons. You are my Master Planner, my very real Presence in times of trouble.

  70. Rea Queen says:

    God’s gentle Word, His Presence met Elijah in the wilderness and told him “go back the way you came.” Elijah had to go back the way he came to reframe and confront the fear that made him run to the wilderness in the first place.

  71. Mari V says:

    Happy Valentine’s Day lovely sisters! It’s a gorgeous beautiful not-so-cold northern California day. I am off today and just dropped off my son at work at one of our local coffee shops. I drove and parked by a trail that I used to run on and watch the sunrise. I miss my running days. Hopefully someday soon I’ll be back. Meanwhile I’m going to soak in this beautiful morning in God‘s word. I know that I know that my Jesus loves me. So on this Valentine’s Day I know that I’m not alone.

  72. Amber Chopp says:

    After a mountain-shattering wind, earthquake, and fire, God comes in a whisper knowing the nobody of Elijah and his needs. His fear. Even after God had fire fall and consume Elijah’s burnt offering, with wood, stones, and dust. Even after that fire licked up the water that was in the trench. Elijah felt alone and scared.
    It comforts me to know that even one like Elijah- had a case of short-term memory loss. He felt fear when the path forward seemed unclear and quite treacherous.
    As my husband finishes his PhD in theology, 7-years of persistent work in the margins of each day: work completed during his full-time job, teaching Bible studies, caring for our two boys. Work also hammered away at while his wife, with resident Eeyore attitude prayed and encouraged as much as she good in between her demanding career and care of our two little gifts.
    It’s all coming to an end and the imminent but unknown transitions have me just about undone. God please remind me of the remarkable story of your provision, salvation, reliability, and tenderness toward us. Could you pray for our little family and ask God to cure us of our short-term memory issue and ask that God flood us with the infinite stories of God’s providence and intervention? May he give us the boldness and confidence of Elijah, when we see God move and when we wait for his voice.
    May God use the gifts he’s given my husband to instruct and form his heart, enabling him to be a blessing to the church and for the church.

  73. Sharon, Jersey Girl says:

    “For anyone who has ever led in ministry—or simply stepped out in obedience to God—this story is a necessary gut check. While fear is a normal part of walking in faith, fear is also a liar. It bends reality ever so slightly, and one of its most common distortions is a perception of isolation that is fueled by self-righteousness. When we believe no one’s call is as hard as ours, or when we assume all other leaders are compromising but us, or when we bemoan that we alone are faithful, we are tumbling into an unreality of our own making.”

    My husband and I are in full time ministry. We have been at our church for 28 years and have seen it constantly ebb and flow. There have been so many times that we have felt so all alone – like we are the only ones ever in ministry to experience the loneliness and discouragement that we often find ourselves in. But — once again God has used His word and a devotional to set my “stinking thinking” straight! God never leaves us or forsakes us. Two times – 1 Kings 19:9 and 1 Kings 19:13 the Lord asks Elijah – “What are you doing here?” i.e. why are you depressed, why do you feel all alone, why are you feeling sorry for yourself??? With God, we do not need to fear. With God we are never alone. With God we can conquer our depression and discouragement. My only question – what am I (we) waiting for? Give it all to Jesus now. He will help, He will strengthen, He will walk us through.

    Praying for all your requests today. May you know especially today – Valentines Day – and everyday, you are loved! Blessings to all my dear SRT sisters! ❤️

  74. GramsieSue . says:

    Get it checked out today! I had that pain and it was a blood clot!

  75. Churchmouse says:

    I have stood in the presence of the Lord, overwhelmed and awed that He would make Himself so unmistakably known. But a short time later, I would still be basking in the afterglow. I could almost hear the Lord saying to me, as He did to Elijah, “What are you doing here?” God’s presence is not just for my comfort or assurance. His presence is also to propel me to fulfill His purpose for me. There is a time to get quiet and listen and there is a time to get moving. I don’t want to be here in the Lord’s presence when He wants me there in His presence. I don’t want to be hiding under a broom tree any longer than He would have me stay.

  76. Tracy Aikens says:

    I can relate to Elijah. Sometimes I feel that all I see are idol worshipers around me. The Lord is helping me to see the big picture through this bible study. I like how the Lord didn’t get into the details, instead told Elijah what he had to do. We serve a God that’s about business!!!!

  77. Jennifer Ficklen says:

    Fear is a liar! The enemy uses our fear against us, but Jesus restores us and gives us peace. He is our Lion of Judah that will never fail us or leave us!

  78. Rachel says:

    I remember my first time really studying the OT in depth and thinking “What is WITH these people?!” The Israelites were a bunch of faithless, idolatrous, fussy people in spite of all they had seen God do on their behalf. And then it was like God walked me to a mirror and gently showed me who was just like them. Oof. I love how, in the passages today, God tenderly took care of Elijah’s needs. He listened to Elijah’s first outburst of self-pity and fear and gave him His presence. And then silently allowed the second pity party…and then told him to get back to work :) (KELLY I loved your words about this, too!) . We can have feelings – but they don’t get to drive. And I love that Scripture shows us the weakness and frailty of these giants of the faith. In the Psalms passage, David has big (and justified!) feelings of fear, but once he expressed those, he immediately turns to truth. Love that.

  79. Victoria E says:

    I love that the instruction to Elijah is to go Stand in the Lord’s presence. I need that daily. Every time I read the OT I catch myself shaking my head at the Israelites and yet- God has done miracles for me so why would I ever have any more fear or anxiety? We are all the Israelites in some way, I believe that is why there are so many stories of their “mess ups” in the OT and it does me personally good to search my life to see where I might be following in their footsteps. Of course there is no Baal to worship but Is there family? Financial security? Opinions of others? Pride? Wanting to be in control of the situation? Praying for all the requests here. Allison I too am a dancer (not professionally but recreationally since I was 8) I feel for you and I pray for your healing and peace. Praise God for your sharing of your testimony! So happy to hear this. Ladies, I would also appreciate prayer for the last few weeks of my pregnancy and a safe and healthy delivery as well as guidance on whether or not to move and/or switch jobs. Thank you so much. Brooke P, GramsieSue, praying for you as well.

  80. Rhonda J. says:

    Oh Thank YOU @ Lisa Z, I so needed to hear that, your truthful testimony. I have realized I do the exact thing, and I have been actively praying on it, praying for my husband and our relationship! I asked for prayer here a few months ago. We are not in a bad place, but approaching fast. We get into cycles as everyone does, as the Israelites did continually. We start a marriage study with an online, small group tonight. The hubby is not thrilled, but I am hoping he will get much out of it, as I know I will! It’s easy to persuade him on Valentine’s day, haha. Marriage is hard, but with the Lord as the center, it can be restored and beautiful!
    Prayers for all your requests today.
    @Melanie- I know you are struggling through your words and your past post! Hold on Sister….It seems like we are in the valley for so long…but try to be still and let God keep speaking to you! Hugs!
    Such good WORD today!

  81. Traci Gendron says:

    The devotion is so good. When my son was diagnosed his dad fell into the why me category. I thought “why not me?”. I didn’t want my friends to have this laid on them. I just knew that it was mine to carry. It humbled me. Made me a better person. Brought me to my knees searching for God. Writing this brings tears. It has been such a hard road, but without it, I would have been a person that I wouldn’t like. God needed to get my attention.

    It warms my heart that you are still praying for me, Searching and Rhonda J. You rode this path with me through these comments. Thank you

    MELANIE – I’m praying for you. I have been where you are. Seek God and He will comfort you in this time.
    JENNIFER LOVES JESUS – Your words are beautiful. Thank you
    MARGARET W – This is such a good lesson for moms. I wish I would have had it in my past.

    Praying over all requests as I go through and read them.

  82. Lisa Z says:

    I can relate to those reading and thinking, why don’t the israelites get it? Seems they keep banging up against the same walls. The Lord pointed out to me that I do the same. Bump against the same struggles of judgement and self-righteousness. I have been a really good player at martyrdom, especially in my marriage. I have said very many nasty things to my husband, always thinking “If only he…”. Praise our lord of restoration! Praying for my husband to change, changed me. God gave me new eyes and motivation to love more purely, new strength to pour into my marriage. That was years ago. My husband and I now have a great marriage. It has taken years of rebuilding to get to where we are today. But so worth it! I always say i castrated my husband with my words. Not an easy task to sew the boys back on, but it can be done. My words are not always sweet as honey, but they are much closer and no longer fly out of a bitter heart. I hear so many partners using damaging words. You know how you learn something, then can see it all over the place in others? I hear women tearing at their men and discouraging their children. All this to say, i am as stubborn as the Israelites! Thanks, Jesus, for Your redemptive power! It is too costly to be bitter. Thank you for healing my marriage by turning me into a praying wife.

  83. Deb says:

    Happy Valentines day dear She’s.
    Praying for prayer request posted..
    From Jesus Calling devotion today:
    “Do not give in to fear and worry, those robbers of abundance living. Whenever you start to feel afraid, remember that I am holding you by your right hand.”

  84. Karrie says:

    Thank you so much ladies for your prayers and thoughts. Thank u ceegee for taking the time to list the verses to look up. I so appreciate it. J, I have looked up those books u have mentioned also. Yesterday was an especially trying day, but todays bible reading was very helpful. I have hope that God will work everything out in my family when he feels the time is right. It’s just so hard to sit and wait while there is so much turmoil going on at the same time. “When I am afraid, I will trust in u”. That is going to be my focus for today ladies.

  85. CeeGee says:

    ALLISON MITCHELL – Praying that your appointment reveals answers to your knee issues and that you can continue with that for many years to come! One of my heart’s desires was to be a dancer, but I wasn’t gifted with the necessary coordination!

  86. Annelyn P says:

    Praying for you, Melanie. You are loved. You are never alone.

  87. CeeGee says:

    JENNIFER LOVES JESUS: Love your statement – “The thunder of stress in our world cannot quiet His comfort, whispered in my heart.”

    Great devo, SHARON HODIE MILLER!!!God bless you and your husband as you minister in these challenging days!

    ANGIE, so thankful y’all made the trip safely!

    TINA, prayers of restoration for your heart and spirit. Please let us know if you need more specific prayers, but God sees and knows! Hugs and love!

    SARAH D – Praying for your appointment today. Remember, it’s just a starting point, but praying you find God’s path to the remedy for your anxiety.

    LYNNE FROM ALABAMA- prayers for Jack and all his medical issues
    Joining in prayer for other requests, too

  88. Adrienne says:

    Last post this am, I promise! Prayer request for me, please… It’s probably nothing, but I donated platelets on Saturday, and today I’ve got pain in that arm, running from inside my elbow up to my armpit. It’s already feeling a little better. Maybe I just slept on it funny. I don’t see anything, nor does it feel hot/warm to touch.

  89. Morgan Latham says:

    Nothing can come between us and God. God’s shield of protection is always around us.

  90. Rachel Blessum says:

    I know this is a fabulous forum of mighty women of prayer, so today I bring a request for my best friend and her family. They found out that her autistic sister’s mole removal brought concerning results and they require more tests. Their family has a history of Melanoma, and my friend was shaken to the core yesterday, fearing for her big sister, but also for herself. She was having thoughts like “What if I have Melanoma someday?” I pray for peace for my best friend today as well as her family, but I also want to pray that as the Lord’s will is done, that no cancer will overtake anyone in that family.

  91. Susie H says:

    ALLISON, praying for healing that allows you to continue to dance.

  92. Adrienne says:

    I just need to quit posting… meant to say I pray I’m NOT in the same boat!

  93. Adrienne says:

    Accidentally hit enter… sorry! Yes, SEARCHING, those Israelites just don’t get it, do they? I don’t pray I’m not in the same boat, but maybe sometimes I am!

  94. Margaret W says:

    I thought I remembered that in this story, God told Elijah that there were still 7000 priests who had not bowed to Ba’al; maybe that was a different telling of the story or a different prophet? (I don’t have time to check right now.) But I love that in this version, God doesn’t correct him but focuses on what Elijah needs right at that moment. Perhaps there is a lesson there for me as a mom, when I am really frustrated by the self-centeredness of a child’s complaint. Perhaps my focus needs to be on validating that child’s very real needs instead of always pointing to the (disabled, in this case) sibling’s needs. Thank you, Jesus, for speaking to me. I just might be as stubborn as Elijah.

  95. Adrienne says:

    Yes, SEARCHING, I often can’t believe how the Israelites and later the

  96. Lizzie T says:

    Praying for you Melanie!

  97. Beatrice Laurien-Honorius says:

    Lord help me with my fear. Fear is a lie and I pray that you help me Lord. I have victory over all the attacks. My husband is save I declare that right now in Jesus name. He is free of alcohol addiction and any other I may not know of. Thank you Lord for answer prayers

  98. Jennifer Loves Jesus says:

    Valentine’s Day? There is goodness behind the pink and red hearts, wanting to love and be loved. Those wants culminating in one day on February 14 just feels off these days. Out of balance. Jesus is the balancer, heart on the cross, reminding me that His love is best. His love feels natural, nothing from me needed except faith. Accepting the gift each day. My heart follows naturally when I focus on Him. No need for one big explosion of a show of love, just His still quiet ways. When my relationship with God is in balance, all other things are balanced. Listening for His voice is natural, and it amazes me how steadfast it feels. The thunder of stress in our world cannot quiet His comfort, whispered in my heart. I hear You Lord, thank you for tuning my ears and life to Your ways. Show me how to bring Your love to others. Show me how to share this amazing, always there kind of peace.

  99. Sarah D. says:

    Thank you for the prayers sisters!! I had a sweet weekend at home with my parents, they encouraged me and are helping me through this. It’s really hard to deal with this anxiety when its been constant, but I know the Lord will use this to show his glory. His power made perfect in weakness. Praying my counseling appointment goes well and that God uses it to decrease my anxiety and help me handle it. Love you all, have a wonderful day!

  100. Taylor says:

    Thank you @Mara Plato for your comment! I love the idea of the fires in our lives refining us but also pointing us to Him. Lifting up all the prayer requests! May we each uniquely and intimately feel God’s presence in our lives today <3

  101. SarahJoy says:

    Such a convicting reminder that we are NOT alone, not the only one following Jesus. Pride. It’s so sneaky. It does twist the truth like Sharon said. That one can get me. Then it turns to overwhelm as the lie takes root.

    God, place my eyes on YOU. Help me to see myself rightly in this world: loved, uniquely designed and given my role to play alongside so many sisters and brothers. I believe, Lord, help my unbelief! Teach my heart to trust in you more each day.

    Lastly, the verse from Psalms reminded me of the cassettes of GT and the Halo Express we wore out as kids! I found them on CD for our kids. All verses put to music and then put together in a theme with a story running through. Music is definitely dated, but God’s word was sown into my heart. (Seeds Family Worship is similar and more current.)
    “When I am afraid, I will trust in you.” Psalm 56:3

  102. Nancy Singleton says:

    There was a Kirsten ____ who wrote about her marriage (I believe to her high school sweetheart) crumbling—I just want you to know I’m continuing to pray that God will intervene to save your family. Sorry I can’t remember your last name, but the Lord knows all the details, & He loves you.

  103. Searching says:

    Lord, You never change but I do, or I drift away, turn away, focus on other things. Please help me to keep my eyes on You and Your word.

    The Lord’s patience and faithfulness caught my attention today with the contrast of the people’s responses in v 21 (But the people answered him not a word) and v 39 (Now when all the people saw it, they fell on their faces; and they said, “The Lord, He is God! The Lord, He is God!”) NKJV

    Does anyone else shake their heads and think, when reading about the children of Israel, why can’t (don’t) you ever learn, believe, trust, love, turn back to the Lord and stay there? Look what the Lord has done for you! And yet He is faithful to get their attention and draw them to Him yet again.
    Why can’t (don’t) I? Look what the Lord has done for me!

    (chorus from Look what the Lord has done (Karen Wheaton)

    I′m gonna praise His name
    Each day He’s just the same
    Come on and praise Him
    Look what the Lord has done!

    ABBY D – praying for Tammie’s husband
    MICHELLE SATTERLY – hugs to your pup!
    SARAH D – praying for healing of the ongoing anxiety
    DOROTHY – thank you for the update, praying for each. And also for the “girls” to move past the drama! I had to laugh (although I know it was frustrating!) when I read about them trying to drag you into all that – it brought back memories of my early years when I worked part time in a bullpen situation with 12 women, it was always something!
    TRACI GENDRON – same thing with me when I travel or visit as there never seems to be quiet time, or I think I’ve found some and someone finds me :). Thankful you were able to have a break and recharge.
    PAMC – praying
    KARRIE – praying for restoration
    ANGIE – thankful for the safe trip!
    ERICA ROMERO – praying for wisdom and strength to follow through
    LYNNE FROM AL – oh, my! Praying for Steve (and you) and thank you for the update.

  104. Kelly Cooke says:

    I’m in Canada, and the country is in turmoil. Please pray for Godly leaders to step up and do the right thing. There’s a major vote happening in Parliament today & we are praying for God’s will to prevail.

  105. Melanie says:

    I am in a place of loneliness and I want to run. I can’t physically but emotionally I want to check out. I feel so broken and I need to continue to mother my children and work on my broken marriage. I need refreshing in the Lords presence. I am weak and I need His strength. Todays reading is what I needed to get through the day.

  106. Melissa Mcronney says:

    Lord help us

  107. Allison Mitchell says:

    Yesterday I had the opportunity to speak with an old friend who’s really struggling with his mental health. We talked for a long time, and despite my hesitations and fears of being judged, I shared my testimony. I had pushed away the urge to bring up the gospel twice, but finally decided to do so and I’m so happy that I didn’t listen to my fear. I think he really considered what I was saying, and he’s definitely seen how Jesus changed my life, so I’m praying that I might have had an impact on him and that he might come to repentance. I’m so grateful for the Holy Spirit working in my life; God is here! How wonderful that we get to be in His presence. I never thought I would be strong enough in my faith or brave enough to talk to my non-Christian friends about Jesus… but with God, nothing is impossible! Especially when it is fulfilling the Great Commission.

    I would also like to ask for prayers. My knee pain has continued, and I have an appointment with an orthopedic surgeon, most likely for an MRI, on Wednesday. I’m a dancer, and the idea that I may have to have surgery for my knee meniscus is really scary for me. I’m struggling with not idolizing dance and physical health. I know that God is all I need, and I pray that I could surrender these worldly things and anxieties to God so that I can truly rest in His presence. Thank you, sisters!

  108. Court says:

    This was beautifully written and a great and timely reminder for a new leader such as myself.

  109. Rebecca Faires says:

    Thank you, Sharon!

  110. Angie says:

    Two weeks ago we took mom to meet my sister in Kentucky for heart surgery. The surgery was difficult but successful, praise God. Saturday we did the return trip to pick her up. The roads were icy. There were cars in the ditches and a semi jack-knifed. One accident had one of the 3 cars involved angled on top of a metal divider they use between lanes. But God, shielded us physically and emotionally as we made the necessary trip. We are tired, but thankful.

    God showed me different details in Elijah’s story today.
    Elijah repaired God’s altar and then added the 12 stones named for the 12 tribes of Israel…honoring God.
    The fire came immediately when he prayed, but the rain took 7 times and then it was a tiny cloud – yet Elijah’s faith knew the cloud would bring a downpour.
    God supplied the food and water Elijah needed to walk the 40 days to His presence.
    God met him in a gentle whisper, a quiet-constant after all that stress.
    He gave Elijah a work to do which included who (Elisha) would take his place.
    These stood out to me today. Now, may the Holy Spirit use them in my heart and mind to better know and serve Him today, I pray.

    Happy Valentine’s Day sisters. May the love of our God saturate your heart and mind today and always. Amen.

  111. Mara Plato says:

    Maybe the fires we face in our own lives are meant to point us to God, are meant to show us He is there. May we allow Him to refine us.

  112. Mara Plato says:

    “…and the God who answers by fire, he is God.”

  113. Kristen says:

    Good Morning, Everyone! I heard two messages not long ago on these chapters. So powerful and good. One is called: The Wrath of God and this is on 1 Kings 18 and the other is called: I’ve Had Enough, Lord based on 1Kings 19. The links are below. Prayers for you all today! @Arina prayers for your ankle. Tina, I noticed your comment. Prayers for you too.

    https://youtu.be/uXEx-SV1jc4

    https://www.truthforlife.org/resources/sermon/i-have-had-enough-lord/
    @Kristen Dill thank you for sharing. I need to pray and ask God’s help to know the truth about myself. Pride is a dangerous thing!

  114. Kelly (NEO) says:

    Well said Sharon, “While fear is a normal part of walking in faith, fear is also a liar. It bends reality ever so slightly, and one of its most common distortions is a perception of isolation that is fueled by self-righteousness. When we believe no one’s call is as hard as ours, or when we assume all other leaders are compromising but us, or when we bemoan that we alone are faithful, we are tumbling into an unreality of our own making.”

    God gave Elijah grace to have his pity party but did not let him stay there. The fact that Elijah obeyed the command ro return to Israel showed his faith and trust in God over his emotions.

    TINA – praying that the Lord will strengthen you.

    SARAH D – praying for your appt today.

    ERICA ROMERO – praying the Lord gives your courage to do what you need to do.

    MICHELLE SATTERLY – praying the chemo brings healing to your doggie.

  115. Lynne from Alabama says:

    Thank you so so much SRT sisters for continuing to pray for my husband Jack. He just came home after two weeks in the hospital and two major surgeries. We still have not seen the oncologist about his cancer because of the other medical issues that are more urgent. Please continue to pray for him and for our family as we care for him. I am praying for each of you.

  116. Arina says:

    I love that God’s answer to Elijah’s fear is to show him His presence. He is there in a voice, a soft whisper. It doesn’t change Elijah’s answer. But it is enough for him to go and complete his task. That’s what I want when I fear. To just be in His presence.

    Kelly – thanks for asking about my ankle. It hasn’t gotten worse, but also not much better. I’m a bit worried about it, but still hoping it will heal further.

  117. Mary Ann Graves says:

    Restoration

  118. Kristen Dill says:

    I am absolutely BLOWN AWAY by todays devotional. Feeling alone is one of my most challenging emotions and LIES that I believe. It can truly be paralyzing and stop me in my tracks. The words that struck me most are that I AM NOT THE ONLY ONE WITH A HARD CALLING!!! When I feel alone, it stems from my own martyrdom and self-righteousness. PRIDE. Man, what a punch to the gut. When I have those feelings of being alone, I now have an ACTION I can take instead of indulging in my prideful martyrdom… “go out on the mountainside and stand in the Lord’s presence.” Ask God to search my heart and “steady me with His presence.” Doing this will restore my soul!!! I don’t know what that will look like when the time comes, but I know God will provide when I lay it all before Him and ask Him to search my heart and soul. Reminds me of a song by Hillsong that starts with “search my heart, and search my soul. There’s nothing else that I want more.” I pray that this helps someone here today address their own feelings of loneliness!

  119. TIna says:

    Feeling a tad battle weary..

    But God..

    On way Lord God, on way to be in your presence..

    Thank you Lord, Thank you.

    Happy Monday sisters, wrapped in Valentines day love and hugs. ❤