Oxygen

Open Your Bible

1 Samuel 2:1-2, Isaiah 40:3-8, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24

Text: 1 Samuel 2:1-2, Isaiah 40:3-8, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24

There was a time not long ago, a season I’ve described in these pages, when anxiety and false expectations covered me like a weighted blanket. As if the oxygen had been sucked out of every room, I couldn’t catch my breath. Then, slowly, the blanket began to lift. Inch by inch it lifted and the air rushed in—when my family loved me anyway, when the doctor understood, when the church held us up, when the long winter finally gave way to spring— until one day I could breathe again. Not the shallow gasps I’d become used to, but deep, lungs-full, eyes-clear breaths. It felt like coming back to life.

That heavy quilt of circumstance was real and it was stifling, but the gospel was always true, even when the heaviness covered me.

The gospel is not only for the moment Christ calls us to repent and follow Him. It is for every moment before and every moment after.

It is for our times of joy and fervor, and our times of doubt and despair.

It is for the day we stand basking in the bright light of hope, and the day we hide, head in hands, in the dark corners of our fear.

It is for the hour that just passed and the hour to come, the situation we just stepped out of and the one we’re walking into.

We need it every minute. The gospel is our oxygen.

But, here in our temporary home, the gospel can seem intangible and hard to hang on to. So where do we turn when the heavy blanket is closing in, when we’re in the dark, gasping for air?

We turn to God’s Word.

When we turn its pages and take in its Truth, the very breath of God fills our lungs, our heart, our mind, our soul. Whether we come to Him doubting, praising, weeping, laughing, His Word is for us and it is true. In this ever-fading world, God’s Word never fades. We can approach it in any condition, under any circumstance, and IT IS STILL TRUE.

When our will is weak, God’s Word is true.
When our faith is fragile, God’s Word is true.
When our hearts are heavy, God’s Word is true.
When we wonder if we even believe it, God’s Word is true.
The gospel is permanent, even when our belief buckles under the world’s weight.

The gospel is the reason we can take Paul seriously when he writes, “Rejoice always! Pray constantly. Give thanks in everything” (1 Thess. 5:16–18). It is the reason we can put away our faith formulas and walk side by side with the One who wrote faith into our stories and has promised to finish what He started. It is the reason a girl who’s made promises to God and broken them all can wake up each new day and invite hundreds of thousands of women to read Truth—the truth about the promise God has made to them, and even to her, and how He has kept and still keeps it, every day.

I am basking in the bright light of hope today, but that weighted blanket may be waiting in the wings. Maybe you’re under it now. Jesus promised His disciples they’d have trouble, and we’re guaranteed to have it too (John 16:33; 1 Pet. 4:12).

Darkness and death are weighty, and our emotions, our actions, even our beliefs may bend at their pressure. But our God does not. Even under the blanket, we can echo the prayer of Hannah:

There is no one holy like the Lord.
There is no one besides You!
And there is no rock like our God (1 Sam. 2:2).

Let your chest rise and fall today with the knowledge that the gospel is true. It is oxygen, available every moment of every day, and you can breathe it in.

The above is an excerpt from Chapter 8 of the book She Reads Truth: Holding Tight to Permanent in a World That’s Passing Away, written by Raechel Myers and Amanda Bible Williams. Find She Reads Truth, the book, on Amazon or anywhere books are sold.

SRT-Book16-instagram4s

(318) Comments
[x]

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

318 thoughts on "Oxygen"

  1. Robin Levy says:

    Thank you. How I need the Oxygen of God’s Word!!!

  2. Alyssa Wagley says:

    Needed this so badly today!

  3. Paige Bennet says:

    When we are _______ the GOSPEL of Jesus is still the same; yesterday, today, and forever. No matter my circumstances or battles or wins I am facing, the Word is still the same and I have the same God fighting for me and with me through each stage of life.

  4. Natallye Meza says:

    “There is none beside you there’s no rock like our God.”AMEN! what better gift than to have Gods love, mercy, grace and forgiveness!! I really needed this reminder there’s no one that compares to God no one that’s even close. God is permanent. I hope you guys all have a great rest of your week. May God bless you guys and be with y’all whatever burden is going in your life whatever is making you anxious or scared know that God is with you and he will never leave you.

  5. Regina Price says:

    There’s none like you Lord ♥️

  6. Mollie Pittman says:

    He is here for you today, tomorrow, and for eternity. He is for YOU and never against you. Even when it feels there is no way out of your circumstances, His path will become visible before your eyes. Thank you Lord for bringing me out of the valleys❤️

  7. Sarah Scheaf says:

    So thankful for this message today!

  8. Astrid Chauvin says:

    Just what I needed todayB

  9. Laurel Wild says:

    Amen!

  10. Lexi Liddiard says:

    so grateful God remains true even in our most dark moments… for the story has always been about Him. it is all for His goodness sake and glory that we exist at all. love and praise, glory and honor to You, Father God! amen

  11. Ashley England says:

    In the middle of this horrible anxiety disorder, and even when I question why God allows this to happen… He still blesses.

  12. Marnie Bartleet says:

    The grass withers, the flower fades,
    but the word of our God will stand forever. – Isaiah 40:8

  13. addison richardson says:

    what a great devotion!! much needed!!

  14. Melissa Mancillas says:

    So beautifully written. Thank you!

  15. Maddie Jones says:

    This gives me so much peace knowing that even though I’ll fail, God will love me regardless.

  16. Brooke Hicks says:

    Great word!

  17. Abby Claire says:

    ❤️

  18. LeeAnn Avery says:

    True, yesterday, today and tomorrow!

  19. Christene Chavez says:

    I have been doing devotion before bed, but today I was stressed and needed time off. I felt like this scripture ironically related to that moment i had

  20. Anita Pang says:

    Amen.

  21. Deb Ireland says:

    “He who calls you is faithful….” I am so thankful for a faithful God who loves me and His word.

  22. Mary Dil says:

    “When we wonder if we even believe it, Gods word is true.”

  23. Gabi Flick says:

    I really connected with “rejoice always, pray constantly, give thanks in everything!” This was the verse that stood out to me as I was reading my Bible right before reading this devotional. It’s so cool how God can connect things like that!

  24. Nathalie Eugene says:

    So powerful this devotional No oxygen blessed my life, the scriptural reference also. Was very powerful regardless of what challenges and trouble I face I want to also declare there is no one beside the lord! He is great and greatly to be praised regardless of the outcome. Amen!!

  25. Sonja Lester says:

    Thank you Father God

  26. Jenni Wertman says:

    I have been going through two of the hardest years (spiritually) that I have ever gone through. God has been faithful to remind me – even when I wasn’t listening – that He is there, He is good, He is faithful, He is working! Today’s devotional came at a perfect time! Thank you Lord for the truth of the gospel in ALL situations!!

  27. Nikole Brown says:

    I needed this reminder today. In this ever changing world, God does not change.

  28. Eleanor McClain says:

    I couldn’t help but think of Job. He suffered through so many hardships over and over and over, but every time he said “Praise the Lord” and didn’t doubt God once.

  29. Nena Thomas says:

    This was like opening my own journal from the last 4 years. God-you are always on time! ♥️

  30. Kimberly Cummings says:

    I am learning to let go of expectations of what I think should be permanent l, especially ideas of what or how I should be living this spiritual life. God my Rock alone is unchanging and sure.

  31. Dawn Peterman says:

    Physical one I sleep with is that the mental one doesn’t move when I get up. The mental one is stifling, the physical one is comforting. The truth is, God wants to be more like the physical blanket, wrapping us in his warm embrace, but all too often, we are weighed down with the mental blanket and not able to function due to life’s circumstances.

  32. Dawn Peterman says:

    This is very timely for me in that I’ve been having neurological issues, and although it has been partially explained in a cervical herniated disc, it doesn’t completely answer the problems. Right now, a heavy blanket is in place (I know what that feels like as I can’t sleep without a 15 pound blanket). The difference between the mental blanket and the one I sleep with is the

  33. Sarah Johnson says:

    I love how in the passage from Thessalonians Paul says, “the one who has called you is faithful and he will do it.” His confidence rests in the nature of who God is. God is the most reliable person we will ever know, so if he says he’ll bring us through something- he will.

  34. Gracie McDonald says:

    Gods word has and will always stand true

  35. Endia Yvonne says:

    I love this. Get from underneath the blanket.

  36. Eliza Maupin says:

    God is faithful and true to us

  37. Kailey Jensen says:

    I needed to hear this. God does not promise us this world will be easy, but He does promise us that when it is not He will still be with us every step of the way.

  38. Sereana Kacunisawana says:

    Amen!

  39. Sarah Dupré says:

    I was JUST saying how I feel like I’m living with a weighted blanket on me. Like I’m suffocating. I find that Psalm 77 always brings me so much peace, too. I’m looking forward to the blanket being totally lifted off me.

  40. E Hong says:

    8The grass withers, the flower fades,
    but the word of our God will stand forever.

  41. Michelle Chen says:

    2“There is none holy like the Lord:
    for there is none besides you;
    there is no rock like our God.

  42. Rebecca Reynolds says:

    He is so so good!!!!!

  43. Jaime Daniel says:

    A weighted blanket…suffocation…having the wind knocked out of you. Anxiety feels like all of that and more. And yet we go on acting like we have it all together.

    Learning to rest in the Truth of the Gospel is the answer. May we all find the peace and weightlessness that it has to offer!

    “Cast your burden on the Lord, and he will sustain you; he will never permit the righteous to be moved.”
    ‭‭Psalms‬ ‭55:22‬ ‭ESV‬‬

    “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”
    ‭‭Matthew‬ ‭11:28-30‬ ‭ESV‬‬

  44. Natalie Echavarria says:

    This is exactly what I needed to hear tonight.
    This was a fresh reminder to my soul.
    Gods love is so beautiful and unconditional. He loves us no matter what.
    The lord is my rock. Through anxiety, life’s obstacles. God has been my go to.
    I sit still and let him.

  45. Jen Johansson says:

    Precisely what I needed to read today. I’m under the quilt right now but it’s here that I’m reminded of freshness, sweetness, and purity of the breath of God’s Word.

    1. Natalie Echavarria says:

      AMEN! So good.

  46. Brittney Papadopoulos says:

    The Lord is my rock and I will not be shaken. Struggling to get it right with two kids two and under but my husband is faithful and I’m trying to be the best stay at home mom I can be but I struggle. Wonderful to be reminded through Hannah’s words that the Lord is my rock even if I feel so weak, he is strong

    1. Roimata Sinclair says:

      I’m a first time sahm and boy it is a challenge so I can relate! I’m sure you’re doing great with your family – your kids are lucky to have such a faithful mum!

  47. Kesha Jackson says:

    Please pray for me and my marriage of 11yrs. Tomorrow is our uncontested divorce and today my husband wore his wedding ring for the first time in 14 months (during separation). I’m believing God for the impossible – we have a six year old and I have been fervently praying for my husbands stone heart to return to flesh and that he’d thirst for Christ! I have bent my will to the will of Gods will being done. God is on the throne and I ask that everyone pray that we break off a century of marital divorce in my family! To GOD be the glory!

    1. Daphne Freeman says:

      Praying for you, sweet one.

    2. Brittney Papadopoulos says:

      Praying for you sweet sister. God has already won this battle

    3. Miranda Koors says:

      Praying for you- how are things going?

  48. Kajsa Grace says:

    God is here, all day every day. Amen.

  49. Angie Graham says:

    This really hits home (not necessarily for me but for my Dad)! He is in the low of lows right now in his life. PLEASE stop and say a prayer for him if you will! Even though you don’t know him, God does and knows the need. Thank you ladies!!

  50. Keturah G says:

    Hallelujah to the precious lamb of God!! The one who promises to never leave me or forsake me. The one who is forever faithful even when we fail Him time and time again

  51. Hannah Little says:

    As a college student, that permanent is NEEDED to stay afloat. It’s by the grace of God that I’ve made it to junior year, and that’s only because of Him. So I just pray that I remember that through this great season I’m in & the ones to come. The gospel is every answer, and Jesus is standing right there waiting for you to talk to him.

  52. Christyana Visk says:

    Love how this excerpt shows that even the most anxiety-filled circumstances are still temporary and that eventually we will have that deep breath. Learning how to take that deep breath by leaning on Jesus is a hard thing to do but it’s necessary to learn and experiences how much he truly cares, provides, and heals!

  53. Kate Ridder says:

    Deep breaths.

  54. Eva Johnston says:

    This is a great reminder he is always there

  55. Aeesha Afable says:

    Another great reminder that under any circumstance, we can look to Him for “oxygen”. I struggle with anxiety so much that sometimes it makes me doubt my own faith, so reading here that even when faith is fragile, God’s Word remains true has really been reassuring. This is the 3rd installation of this series and slowly I’m able to believe that everything will be fine in the hands of the Lord

  56. Kalyn Horvey says:

    Thankful for his word and truth. Help me to breathe it in and feel it in my soul.

  57. Gaby Gomez says:

    so real

  58. Jess Robinson says:

    GOD IS SOOOOOOO GOOD! HIS LOVE ❤️ IS TRUE

  59. Courtney Nix says:

    Ever present in the word and in prayer

  60. Julia Hamill says:

    I love reading!

  61. Jessica Nichols says:

    ❤️

  62. JoAnna Welsh says:

    We go to the Word.

  63. Jennifer Thach says:

    This was so uplifting! When we seek God and read the Word he fills us up and allows us to breathe and be free.

  64. Vv Au says:

    I definitely have a habit of quenching the Spirit when I’m uncomfortable, when I’m fearful, when I’m insecure, when I feel less than…but Jesus is the Word and the Word gives life and it is constant and never changing. So let’s start afresh and invite the Spirit and cancel the quenching!!

  65. Molly Gilbane says:

    Lord, thank you for this beautiful life! Thank you for remaining steadfast and unwavering— yesterday, today, and forever. Thank you for providing us with your word— a scripture that is God-breathed and true. The gospel is our oxygen! When we turn it’s pages and take in its truth, the very breath of God fills our lungs, our hearts, our minds, our souls. Thank you Lord.

  66. Anenda Lumbi says:

    He’s word is unwavering! Thank you lord

  67. Chelsea Alsum says:

    Praise God for how he delivers us!

  68. MacKenzie Fraser says:

    i was under that weighted blanket this past year dealing with overwhelming grief. i clung to my faith. the oxygen is such a great analogy. faith grief devotionals (God’s word) are truly what got me through – they were my oxygen!!

  69. ashley inocencio says:

    such a beautiful reminder. His word is my truth – our truth. may we find Him through all of our struggles and may we find Him through all of our glories!

  70. kailey norris says:

    Our God is like no other. He is faithful, loving, and true!! Even under the “blanket” God does not bend into pressure when we do, instead He gives us life. Through everything, His word is STILL true. Wonderful Father He is.

  71. Abby Claibourn says:

    The truth within the comparison of the Word of God and the breath that gives us life is truly a reminder how much Christ can set us free, in every circumstance, the Word is still Truth.

  72. Erica Askren says:

    Such a good read today.

  73. Sica Renee says:

    The weighty blanket is definitely on me! I thank God right now for the oxygen He is providing through His word! It is a reminder that God is with me every step of the way… every setback, every worry, every fear, and every frustration. He won’t leave me therefore when I’m weak I can lean on Him!!

  74. Morgan Rowebanik says:

    Exactly what I needed in weakness, frustration and anger I can come to him the ultimate emotion support…the ultimate healer.. he always answers he’s always there I must simply seek him !!

  75. Kim Beck says:

    When my anxiety is high, I am so short of breath that I’m practically panting. It’s terrifying and suffocating and I often ask God for oxygen to fill my lungs… to say this post hits home is an understatement! I praise Him for sustaining me when it seems like even physical air will not!

  76. Ka'imilani says:

    I lost a dear friend yesterday night to suicide and it broke my heart. I’m only in high school and today at school it was very heavy. It was as if we were all trying to carry the weight that only God can hold. People blaming one another and rumors spreading from ear to ear. I didn’t know where to turn so I decided to read this…. Thank you so much, I’ve cried so much today, but this made me cry tears of joy… God is my truth & light in the midst of this dark world.

    1. Victoria says:

      I’m so sorry to hear about your friend. May you continue to cling to Jesus as you grieve, and may the Almighty bring you comfort during this difficult time.

  77. Heather says:

    This is so true!
    My whole world is under a blanket right now.
    My fiancé injured his hands badly at work and we don’t know when we will be covered by his wage loss.
    I have no idea how we will make do with my income alone.
    I’m struggling to breath right now.
    I’m
    Breaking

    1. Carrie says:

      Praying for you both this morning Heather.

  78. Trisha says:

    This is exactly what I needed right now. I dan feel the darkness of my mental illness creeping all into my being and taking over my mind and body. It has been hard to function this week and keeps getting worse as the days go by.
    I’ve been reading, praying, and asking for prayers so hopefully God will hear my cries and His word will begin to pull me back soon.

    1. I am praying for you, Trisha.

  79. Jessica says:

    This devotional is so spot on in my season right now. I feel this heaviness constantly. I need to continue to run to God instead of trying to cope on my own. I can do all things including this season with God there with me ❤️

    1. Sarah Kobe says:

      Jessica, you are not alone!

    2. Ashley Naomi says:

      Right there with you!

  80. Sophie says:

    Thank you for this devotion. I’m under the blanket and it’s heavy and hard to breathe or see the light. I keep waiting for my circumstances to change before the blanket can come off, but I need to remind myself that I can breathe easily in Gods word and His light shines on me all the time. I need only open my eyes and soak it in. ❤️

    1. Apryl says:

      I’m praying for you. Xoxo Gods there, no matter how we feel, Gods there.

  81. Lacomedia says:

    That word was for me. I feel like the last couple of years, I had been dragged around by the blanket. I let my cares overwhelm to the extent that truth just seemed to bounce off. There had been so many days I struggled to pick up the word. On my very slow recovery from the hole I had dug myself, I slowly began to seek him again. The word says faith comes by hearing. The more of him I took in the easier it became for me to remember to cast my cares at the foot of his throne. God is a good father and never neglects or turns his back on us, regardless of how many times we turn ours on him. He continues to shower us with his Love and Grace. Thank you for this amazing devotion.

  82. Rachael says:

    wow… this devotion, read… is just amazing

  83. Emily says:

    How reassuring to know that we have a God siphoning oxygen to us under the heavy blanket of life! “When our will is weak, God’s Word is true. When our hearts are heavy, God’s Word is true. When we wonder if we even believe it, God’s Word is true!!” Through this tough season of life, I have questioned God and been angry with my circumstances, but He is always faithful, and this reminded me of that truth even when my will is weak, my heart is heavy, and my brain is questioning! HOW WONDERFUL IS OUR GOD?!

  84. Raysa Pineda says:

    Reminded today that he is faithful. Hanging on to Him until the blanket is lifted.

  85. Jordan says:

    Sometimes I don’t see the oxygen but just the weighted blanket. I’m so thankful to serve a Lord who always provides the oxygen, even when I don’t deserve it!!

  86. Pris E. says:

    Amen and Amen!!!

  87. Chole says:

    “It is the reason a girl who’s made promises to God and broken them all can wake up each new day and invite hundreds of thousands of women to read Truth—the truth about the promise God has made to them, and even to her, and how He has kept and still keeps it, every day.”

    Sometimes I struggle with the fact that I’ve made promises to God I didn’t keep. Almost like I don’t deserve His grace or forgiveness. But this was so reassuring to read. That even when I’m unfaithful, God still is faithful. And He couldn’t possibly love me any more or less than He does now.

  88. Christina D. says:

    Like so many others I have the weighted blanket. What an encouragement to continue seeking God’s truth and promises in the Word. It is the only life and hope giving thing during this time. Praying daily for the Holy Spirit to guide and protect my thoughts. Praying now to reveal the TRUTH in scripture. Truth I can hold to when everything else slides through my fingertips. Thank you Lord.

    1. EB Davis says:

      Christina, I’m praying for you this morning. Faint not!

  89. Kimberly Hicks says:

    #iwillalwayspraisehim

  90. Kara Smith says:

    I have really bad anxiety and I am mostly anxious about death and the unknown. I also question and doubt God and let atheists on the internet get into my head too much. This really helped me!! I wish my constant anxiety and awful thoughts would let me live peacefully and not question God and be satisfied and believe that I will be in heaven one day!

  91. Stephanie says:

    This was just what I needed in the midst of the wind, rain, and storm of Hurricane Irma

  92. katie mei says:

    this was refreshing and encouraging to hear !

  93. Isabelle says:

    As I head back to college and all of the stresses of the world seem to overwhelm me again, I can take comfort in the fact that God is an always present rock in my life. -definitely needed to hear this right now

  94. Cillavalerie says:

    And this:
    “The gospel is the reason we can take Paul seriously when he writes, “rejoice always! Pray constantly. Give thanks in everything.” (1 thess 5:16-18). It is the reason we can put away our faith formulas and walk side-by-side with the One who wrote faith into our stories and has promised to finish what He started.”

  95. Cillavalerie says:

    “He who called you is faithful”, love that truth!

  96. abbydallz says:

    this continues to speak to me every time I read it.

  97. Whitney says:

    Thankful for this this morning as I head into a job that Is hard for me as I navigate relationships with bosses who are believers but treat me very poorly. It’s so hard most days. Today I will strive to remember that I can make it through bc of the gospel.

  98. Isabela says:

    Just good gospel truth ❤️

  99. Kimberly says:

    This devotional is one I will hold onto and refer back. Thank you!

  100. jenna says:

    wow, okay. this definitely hit home. i’m 17 and right now, this is definitely something i’m struggling with. anxiety has been a part of my life for as long as i can remember, and high school definitely doesn’t help. i’m reading this devo on a bus on a mission trip, surrounded by people that share my faith and that love me, listening to our VBS music and everyone singing terribly off key, heading to a brand new place, and i’ve never felt more comfortable. normally, i would be panicking. i’ve never been on a mission trip, i don’t speak the language, it’s one of the poorest parishes in the region, and yeah, i’m nervous. but reading this is so much of a comfort just to know that other people have struggled with this as well. God is so good, y’all!!

    1. Savannah says:

      Haha so I know you don’t know me, but I’m on the same boat, same age, came to a mission trip this week in a very dangerous place, and I struggle with anxiety myself. I worry about the silliest things and for some reason I just felt the need to share with you that you’re not alone, and God’s got you, and he’s so good to deal with all of us despite of who we are. And a lot of times I doubt myself, but these verses just reminded me of how powerful god really is. And like, when we doubt ourselves and don’t think we are capable of doing something, it’s not even us that’s suppose to be doing the doing, all of that energy comes from God. God is so much powerful than we are, and he’s soooo good

  101. Danielle Crihfield says:

    3 But you, LORD, are a shield around me, my glory, the One who lifts my head high. 4 I call out to the LORD, and he answers me from his holy mountain. 5 I lie down and sleep; I wake again, because the LORD sustains me. 6 I will not fear though tens of thousands assail me on every side.

    8 From the LORD comes deliverance. May your blessing be on your people. (‭Psalm‬ ‭3‬:‭3-6‬ NIV)

  102. Danielle Crihfield says:

    Praying for you Heidi. Please know you are not alone. Continue to pray for your husband and family, and ask other woman to help you in prayer- this is a season- God will heal and work good through this time. It’s just not visible now.

  103. Heidi says:

    Please be praying for me. We had a miscarriage about a week ago. It’s been one of the hardest struggles for me. My husband is also been very mad about all this. His mother also just died. He has been putting it all on me and the kids. Please pray that God would show him that God is always there for him. In the past mount hour lives have turned upside down

    1. Sarah says:

      Praying for you & your family ❤️ so sorry for your losses.

  104. Courtney says:

    The excerpts from the book are always so spot on! I needed this so much today!

  105. Theresa says:

    Loved this. I need to save this and read it every time I’m struggling.

  106. Dawn says:

    I needed this so much today…. woke up with anxiety and was trying to deep breathe and decided I needed Truth in my head rather then negative beliefs. opened up this app and plan and saw “Oxygen” . Thank you !!

  107. Grace says:

    this message is gold. so beautiful. thank you, thank you, thank you!

  108. Hannah says:

    Needed this message today!! ❤️

  109. Laurin says:

    Really needed this right now, I am in the middle of a nasty divorce because my husband lied and cheated for the last year and I am raising 3 kids and working . Feel like my whole world was turned upside down and I have been seeking to Grow closer to God. I tried to fix it and carry all the stress and anxiety alone but I cannot……God is the only True Happiness me and my kids will ever know in this life.

    1. Kelly says:

      I’m in a similar boat Laurin. needed this big time.

    2. She Reads Truth says:

      Praying for you, Laurin. Asking the Lord to be your peace and joy in this time of anxiety and stress. So grateful for you.

      – Stormye

  110. Asya says:

    Thank you Lord for making your word so readily available as my appetite increases for your precious glory!

  111. Sarah says:

    I am under the blanket today, and this post helped it lift a little. Our God is always faithful!

  112. Lee says:

    Thank you for this.

  113. Nina Lynn says:

    The excepts from the book daily make me feel like I NEED to get and read this book cover to cover. Everyday hits me in a different way. Releases a different pain from my heart, helps me breathe a little easier. So thankful for this app & this community.

    1. Maddy says:

      I completely agreed so I bought the book. It has been amazing to dive deeper into the amazing words of these authors

  114. Anna Faith says:

    Definitely related to this

    1. Heidi says:

      I think you might be my sister.

      1. IliveforCHRIST/HJK says:

        No that’s my sister. I’m Heidi joy.

  115. Heidi Thomas says:

    Thank you!

  116. Megs says:

    Forgetting to turn to His word is something that I struggle with. This is just what I needed to hear today. He is with us when the weight of the world is feeling unbearable and He is with us when in our joyful circumstances. I know looking to His word will guide me through all circumstances and bring peace. Thank you Lord Jesus for your unwavering grace and love.

  117. Precious says:

    Lord Jesus I love you! I’m feeling a lot better

  118. Altermease Kendrick says:

    Wow! This is where I am today and as I read your words, it’s as if they are falling off my tongue because I seem to know the next word before my eyes see it. Thank you for truth!

  119. Rebecca says:

    Such a beautiful perspective that is always relevant ❤

  120. Larissa says:

    Definitely needed this today. ❤️

  121. Courtney says:

    This was amazing and powerful!

  122. Nina Weaver says:

    I have been in a really bad season of broken relationships, depression, and really bad anxiety. I just had an awful panic attack and once I got myself somewhat calm I read this and it was so applicable to my heart. Thanks so much for the daily encouragement and how it constantly points me back to the word and Jesus himself.

    1. Terri says:

      Praying for you Nina. I know how scary this can be. I too have been in a similar season and am currently trying to recover from a recent rough panic attack. In this midst of these storms it’s so hard to breathe that we forget we are actually breathing. But I try to always keep my Bible, a scripture card or something handy to help me focus on my breath. And as the devotion says, our oxygen comes from God. God bless you.

  123. Mrs. E says:

    This plan Holding Tight to Permanent has been amazing. Reading the encouragement of his day was the oxygen that I needed. The blanket was creeping up over me again, but God has met me, and today I can breathe.

  124. Isabellinemarie says:

    I had a really really scary dream , I woke up and happened to stumble on this.

  125. Wdmomma says:

    This is just what I need! I can’t wait to share with my friends! God we need you more than Oxygen! You are so faithful and your love is unconditional. I am about to go see my husband at a special service at a retreat he is on and he doesn’t know I’m coming . I feel like it is our first date all over! I can’t wait to see his face.

  126. MLW says:

    Just beautiful!

  127. Carissa says:

    I love this! So beautiful and absolutely perfect for today. Praise God for his perfect timing! Thank you for letting Him use you as such a beautiful vessel to proclaim His never-wavering truth, grace, faithfulness, and love.

  128. Hannah says:

    God is always good so even when life is a waiting game, tough, and not going the way you thought, God is there. He knows us and his word is true even then. it makes sense then to thank him even then and always.

  129. Alexandria says:

    Truly love how God works in my life.

  130. Allyson Chase says:

    His promises to us are so comforting. ❤️

  131. Victoria says:

    Wow! Gods word never ceases to amaze me, even though I sometimes doubt that God will “talk to me” during a devotional … today he spoke volumes! I basically just highlighted and bookmarked that entire devotional. It was and is the reminder that I have been searching for

  132. Tatcasas says:

    This is just what I needed today!!!

  133. Hannah Jane says:

    Thank you Jesus for being constant!!

  134. Shelby says:

    Shelby
    This was so inspiring! When I was reading it i Felt like getting up and dancing!

  135. Lisa says:

    I am quite indecisive and even easily swayed at times. Remembering that God’s Word is always true, no matter the circumstances or what I think at the moment really helps me stay steady and confident in myself and in the Lord.

  136. The last little tid-bit ❤

  137. Perrin says:

    Oxygen is vital to our living, but I literally can go an entire day or week without thinking about its importance. Makes me wonder how often we forget the gospel’s existence as we go about our days, even though it’s THE thing sustaining us?

  138. TOTORO says:

    “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” Amen!

  139. Kendall says:

    I got off track on these readings, due to being in the hospital for 17 days, and just general laziness. I remember seeing the one titled “Oxygen” in my inbox, and I thought that was pretty ironic, because I was literally on supplemental oxygen. There were a lot of complications, and for a couple days, it felt like nothing was going to get better. My mother, an ever-present source of hope and Jesus, was constantly telling me to pray and trust God, but I felt so lost, and to be honest, I was mad at everyone, even God. I’m so glad I went back and read this. God is faithful!

  140. Ken says:

    Wow “his word is true”❤️❤️

  141. Audrey says:

    I left Christianity ten years ago. First I converted to Judaism, then I was an atheist for about three years. The weight of this blanket spoken of in this article was real. Being an atheist is the worst experience one can have. I was led back to Christianity four nights ago, and the blanket is lifted. Please pray for me for strong faith and to be open to God’s leading me wherever he wants me to go. Thank you, and “Thank you God!”

    1. Victoria says:

      Hey Audrey,

      I am praising the Lord that He led you back to Himself! I will be praying that He will continue to draw you close and deepen your faith in Him.

    2. Kelby says:

      Praying for you!

      1. DANIKA says:

        Thanking God and praying for you today !

    3. HeatherMarie says:

      Hi Audrey, I’ve been praying for you this morning. God is reminding me of a prayer I prayed through a hard time in my walk with him, Psalm 51:12.

      Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.

      He will sustain you! Keep pursuing Jesus, even when you don’t want to. He will never stop pursuing you, so great is his love.

  142. Elizabeth says:

    this is so beautiful. thank you for sharing

  143. OZEMOM98 says:

    I’m so thankful for His mercy and grace in a season of uncomfortable change and uncertainty. He has not forgotten for one minute where I am.

  144. glad says:

    thank you. Small words mean a million times. God bless you

  145. Sarah says:

    Wow. Incredible. Thank you.

  146. Caroline says:

    praise him! praise him through this storm and in every good and bad day after!

  147. Amanda says:

    Need this in the midst of my anxiety this week. My doubt and fear feel weightier than anything else and I’m having trouble discerning what’s true. I’m having trouble knowing and trusting God. But even in my doubt, his word is still true. I want to believe this.

    1. OZEMOM98 says:

      Prayers for you today.

    2. Meg says:

      I hope you’re feeling okay Amanda. I struggle a lot with anxiety and know how hard it is.

    3. Brooklin says:

      Praying for you today girl.

  148. Maria says:

    Thank you for this wonderful post Amanda! I am blessed by it

  149. Brittany says:

    So I’ve thought about making a career change and I told my father about it. He basically said that if I change jobs I will die. Now I get he’s scared because I am too, but at this point I am putting my faith that the will of God will be shown to me. I have been praying about it and yes I have doubts, but I know whatever happens it will be what is meant to be. I can’t slow the words of others hurt me, but I can allow Gods words to uphold me. Please pray for me. I don’t know if anyone is even going to read this or respond, but I need to talk to someone and it’s hard when your family doubts you more than you doubt yourself.

    1. Hannah says:

      Praying for you Brittany, that God will bring wise, loving people into your life who you can talk to about this, and that you will know God’s peace and guidance.

    2. Laurie says:

      I’ve seen this Brittany and I’m praying for you. Whatever you hear from the Father, His words ring truer than any other. He crafted you with His hands and He will put you where He made you to be. I pray that you are uplifted by those you love and that you will have guidance in the midst of a difficult decision.

    3. Emma says:

      Praying for you during this hard time. Trust in the Lord and he will lead you where you need to go.

  150. Vanessa says:

    God’s word is truth and permanent..with an ever changing world around us it’s nice to know God is always there

  151. Emily says:

    by far this one is my FAVORITE

  152. Lexi says:

    I have struggled with a lot of anxiety and depression lately. And while I recently began to fight back and come out of this pit I’ve been stuck in, it takes all of my energy and today was just a particularly bad day that I couldn’t even get myself to go to school. Reading this was such perfect timing and so very true. Giving me hope for a better day tomorrow

    1. OZEMOM98 says:

      Hold tight! Praying for you.

  153. Nicole H says:

    As someone who never previously struggled with anxiety, it is so comforting reading this going through a particularly challenging point in my life. It is beyond incredible to read this Truth and know He is who He is, despite where we are in our lives.

  154. MelainaH says:

    just read this post this morning, after laying awake in the early morning under my own heavy blanket of anxiety. God’s timing of this word was perfect. thank you for the reminder that God and His gospel are bigger and my life is but a small part of it. I needed the push to get outside my own head and see the bigger picture.

  155. Olivia Weeks says:

    GODS WORD IS TRUTH ❤️

  156. Zoe says:

    “Though hope is frail, it’s hard to kill”

  157. Dani says:

    This gave me chills. I stand in awe of You, Father God. Thank You for speaking to me….and for allowing me to hear You again.

  158. Rachel Young says:

    I really needed this today. It’s exactly where I have been. I haven’t been putting on my oxygen mask the last few days. I love that analogy of the heavy blanket. It says perfectly how I’ve been feeling. A month into an over 1000 mile move from all of our friends and family. First Christmas away and on our own. We have followed God’s calling, we are sure of this. But it’s hard. I need more oxygen. Thank you for this devotional so much!

    1. Heidi says:

      We moved 3 months ago and Christmas was hard. Knowing that you are right where you should be helps a lot! But I’m a new place the highs are high and the lows are so low. Remember you are not alone there so many others who have followed the call to leave home and family and career to a new land. Abraham was the first but not the last! Take heart He has overcome the world!

      1. Rachel Young says:

        Thanks so much Heidi for your reply! I hope you are doing well in your move. I’m surprised how my feelings can do easily over take the truth of what I know with all my heart to be a sure calling. I really appreciate your words of encouragement!

  159. Diane says:

    Loved this reading! Loved the analogy of oxygen being our spiritual life giver. It has also been my physical life giver. I have had lobectomies on both lungs due to cancerous tumors. So I have parts of lungs to breathe by. It is a vital force, God gives me a new unending supply, for 24 years I ve been cancer free! He is faithful.
    My journey through surgeries and treatment took me deep into Gods love and provision. He showed me the places I had doubt and fear and theough His Spirit replaced them with assurance, a steadfast walk that has held me close to Him.

    1. NIKA,CA says:

      Beautiful! Very encouraging.

  160. The words that stand so chillingly true to me at the start of the new year.

  161. RR says:

    Thank you for this much needed reminder.

  162. Murphey Hatcher says:

    I’m loving this. The word has been helping me breathe in the midst of my anxieties and fight with the devil. I’m grateful for His conversations with me through His word.

  163. Natalie Muro says:

    These words are so timely. I recently lost my brother to cancer and some days doubt and fear overwhelm me BUT His Truth is what speaks loudest, even in this dark time. Thank you Jesus!

  164. Jillian says:

    Such a good reminder!

  165. Emily says:

    2016 is closing and I have a very heavy blanket that I am carrying or have wrapped around me. Today’s message was very reassuring, uplifting, and encouraging of God’s unfailing love. It’s so reassuring to know that I have that oxygen anytime I need it, to take in, breath, and pray. This too shall pass, and this heavy blanket will be removed with his time and healing.

  166. Sara says:

    I so desperately needed this today. Thank you for these life giving words.

  167. Evangeline says:

    I come to the end of 2016 and looking back at this year reminds me of what Amanda shared today. I lost my father on January 27th, I lost my mom on November 25…and I know I have said at least a dozen times…I need air…I have great peace where my parents are…it is just a simple, sadness that in this life, I will not benefit from their praying for me, their voices, I really miss the sound of their reassuring voices but I KNOW that I shall see them again, I know His Word has brought me great comfort and I know it is for glory to His Name…Sadness and peace is an odd combination but I trust Him and look forward to what He has in store for this redeemed flawed , woman of God.

    1. Kristi says:

      This brought tears to my eyes. Praying for you this morning sister.

  168. Jenn says:

    Amen! Amen a million times. Thank you for reminding us of this truth. I’m so greatly blessed by these devotions.
    God bless

  169. Shelia says:

    My mother had a massive stroke on August 7, 2015. For the first few months I lived with the hope that she would be whole again . . . I prayed for her to be whole again. I did not pray for God’s will, I prayed for mine. It is December, 2016, and my mother is paralyzed on her left side, partially blind, and is wheel chair bound and bedridden. Today’s devotional describes the way I have felt since the physical therapy stopped, and the doctors told us this was as good as it was going to get. My prayer is now for acceptance of how she is on this side of heaven, for I know she will be perfect one day. Today she fell asleep while I read this devotional to her, and as I watch her sleep I have a sense of peace enveloping me that I have not experience since this all began. Thank SRT for speaking and sharing the truth of God’s word to us each day. Sisters please pray for me that I can totally trust God through this journey and pray for His Will, not mine.

    1. Abbie says:

      Shelia I’m so sorry for your pain, heartache and suffering on this journey, and for that of your mother too. I am praying for you xx

  170. Cathy says:

    Smiling after today’s devotion. Been having an ittybitty pity party for myself after not being bold enough to keep Christmas focused on love rather than all the alcohol brought into my house by family. But there is hope…next year and everyday till then I’ll remember to put it up in prayer & breathe in His Word. I do not know how I managed NOTto default & surrender it to God as I normally would. I turned inward but it’s time to “get salty” with God as the captain.

  171. Carley Seale says:

    I’ve been under the quilt for over a year not sure how to come out from it. I understood He forgives, but I just couldn’t feel it in my heart. I mentioned this to my minister, and he suggested that I ask specifically to “feel” forgiveness in my daily prayer. I thought, is it that easy!? The next part is a long and amazing story, but it worked! God did exactly what I asked. My circumstances have not changed, but my pep is back, my confidence is stronger than ever, and I feel God’s special force wrapped around me.

    1. Jamie says:

      That is so good to hear! What an encouraging testimony! Praying for you!

    2. Melinda Watters says:

      Beautiful testimony!! Thank you for sharing this adds to my confidence!

  172. I don’t know if this is the best thing I have ever read from SheReadsTruth or that it is just meeting me right where I am. Thank you and God bless

  173. Sisterm says:

    I so need and enjoy every day’s readings. I had ordered the hard copy of this book when I heard it was coming out; I bought the ebook version yesterday so l’ll always have it handy. Thank you.

  174. Naomi LaBoo says:

    God’s word is true even when I doubt! Words to my ear!

  175. Tanya says:

    Just want I needed to hear today

  176. This reminded me of one of my favorite C.S Lewis quotes from Narnia, “Wrong will be right, when Aslan comes in sight, at the sound of his roar, sorrows will be no more, when he bares his teeth, winter meets its death, and when he shakes his mane, we shall have spring again.” If you know the symbolism of Narnia, Aslan represents God.

  177. Rebecca says:

    This blanket has weighed heavy on me for the past few years, and I finally feel it lifting. I am starting to feel what true peace looks like in God’s word. Thank you for putting words to feelings that I so struggle to get out.

  178. Claire says:

    I so get this “There was a time not long ago, a season I’ve described in these pages, when anxiety and false expectations covered me like a weighted blanket. As if the oxygen had been sucked out of every room, I couldn’t catch my breath. Then, slowly, the blanket began to lift. Inch by inch it lifted and the air rushed in—when my family loved me anyway, when the doctor understood, when the church held us up, when the long winter finally gave way to spring— until one day I could breathe again. Not the shallow gasps I’d become used to, but deep, lungs-full, eyes-clear breaths. It felt like coming back to life.” But it lurks in the wings just waiting to pounce any Doubt, unkind words, blue days, etc.

  179. Pam says:

    I love this study!! Happy New Year sisters in Christ!

  180. Dominique says:

    Even with the weighted blanket of recent deaths and the grief that comes along with it, thank you for the sweet reminder that God’s Word is permanent, and true, and available always. Holding on to this in times like these.

  181. DAYRAY says:

    God’s faithfulness has always, ever since I can remember, been my favorite attribute of His. I love meditating on all he is, but nothing gets ahold of my soul quite like his faithfulness does. Perhaps because I haven’t had anyone other than my grandmother be faithful to me. But it blows my mind that the God of the universe, who created me… is faithful to ME. Just because it’s WHO HE IS.

  182. Fairer3333 says:

    God will be our rock, supporting us, unyielding, even in the harshest storms and deepest oceans. Our faith guides throughout our entire life

  183. Wendy says:

    What a blessing to know we are not alone in our journeys, our seasons of life. Yes, God is with us, but so are sisters in Christ, all around the world. The analogy of a blanket, perfectly describes how I have been feeling for quite a while. Numb, apathetic, stuck….. And full knowing that I am. I just can’t seem to intentionally be in God’s Word more, despite my feelings. This is a wonderful resource, and I’m so thankful for it. So, despite my feelings, I will strive to be intentional in my walk. I will stop comparing my walk earlier in my life and wishing for that time. I will strive to figure out this season of life in which I dwell and press on. The comments here are so encouraging. Even when some of you are facing heartache, you run to God’s Word. May I get back to this in my own life and figure out this season….. I blame it on the 40s. :)

    1. Ashley says:

      Spiritual dryness and that feeling of resistance can be so challenging! May the Lord encourage you and honor your desire to follow Him even when it’s hard!

  184. Jess Gardiner says:

    That weighted blanket hit me like a ton of bricks in my mid teens and had only started to lift now in my mid twenties. Depression, anxiety, panic, an eating disorder, a painful breakup, family conflict, a family member’s chronic illness … I didn’t think the darkness was ever going to lift for me. Those years we’ve e full of doubting, anger, confusing, fear and I wrestled like REALLY wrestled with God. And He found me and saved me through it, not out of it. Praise God his Word came alive to me through those years. Even now, more functional than I’ve ever been… His Word is truly my oxygen. Even one morning without it and I’m gasping for air. Praise God on high that He ripped out the perilous ground from under me, so that He might place on a firm, stable, forever-secure foundation!

  185. Chelsea Zerwekh says:

    I wrote out “when I turn to God’s Word…” to the letting of my chest rise in the front of my bible as a daily reminder of His Word being true. Thanks for so eloquently writing out this devotion <3

  186. Kristi says:

    I, too, feel like I can breathe again, like I’m awake to my life for the first time in years. Though I have fallen again and again, and at times run headlong in the opposite direction, our faithful God has never abandoned me. He is true to His promise never to forsake us, and all His promises are equally true. Thank you for this encouragement!

  187. Erin says:

    Amen seems like such a trite thing to say in response. But amen! I need to bask in God’s faithfulness, knowing that he is faithful to fulfill in me what he started… and sanctification is a long road with some heavy blankets and some light-hearted joys along the way. I’m in transition from the dark and heavy to the joy and freedom…. and the Word, the Truth is how God is healing me…. revealing himself in his perfect timing. My oxygen.

  188. Jessica says:

    I’ve felt that heavy blanket over my corner of the world for months. Just as I was about to feel suffocated by it all, this study started and has been my oxygen machine; bringing me the True oxygen in just the right dose. ❤

  189. Joy says:

    I am blown away by the depth of this study. Jesus is allowing it to speak directly into my heart. Thanks be to God, for never changing, in an ever changing world.

  190. Tina Stephens says:

    From someone who is beginning to breathe again after 9 years…Thank you, I’m very encouraged.

    1. debbie neufeld says:

      I took me 8 years to start breathing again. My Mother could even hear the shallow gasps for air and the heavy sighs when I needed more oxygen. I am sliding a bit again. Thank you for the reading today.

  191. Rachel says:

    The piece that stood out to me in scripture was “Give thanks in everything.” This is one of the things that I kept hearing about my uncle who recently passed away that was so encouraging. He had been suffering from cancer for the last 10 years, but he NEVER complained. This is unfathomable to me, because I have such a habit of whining and complaining over the most inconsequential things. It’s ugly, and I know it. And I think it’s because I haven’t developed an attitude of thankfulness for all that I DO have. I’ve been blessed in so many ways; it’s just easy for me to lose track of my many blessings (especially wonderful friends and family) when I become focused on the way things are not working out my way (namely, having to wait so long to start a family because student loans take up 70% of our income).

    Right now, I’m especially thankful that I’m feeling such a call to dive into this community. I’m excited about growing in my relationship with Jesus. I can’t wait to see what this year brings.

    1. Amy Bz says:

      Well put. I agree! I need to remember to concentrate on my blessings at every moment!

  192. Ellen says:

    Thank you for this message this morning. God is always constant…always. When I was filled with anxiety and depression…God was there. When our finances were crumbling…God was there. When I was walking deep in sin…God was there. When my marriage was ready to fall…God was there. When the church turned it’s back on us…God was there. When life got better…God was there. Through it all, He never left us or turned his back on us. I can live…I can breathe…God is here.

  193. Cassandra says:

    Thank you ladies for your encouragement, God bless each one of you.

  194. Ashley says:

    Wow, I have got to order this book. Amanda and Raechel, thank you so much for allowing God to freely work through you. Your surrender to Him in this way has continually brought me back to His feet in times of joy, despair and even in the mundane. I am completely grateful for you both. Praise God that His will is to give us His whole truth all the time in every situation. I would be so lost otherwise.

  195. Andrea Cantu says:

    I love this

  196. Alexis says:

    Oh I so needed this! Thank you so much for your words and this study. It is speaking comfort to my heart and reminding me to hold on to the permanent in a very temporary world.

  197. Angela says:

    Thank you all, may God bless each one of you for sharing I’m so thankful for SheReadsTruth. I love being able to read Gods word and then read that Im not alone under this blanket.

  198. Sarah says:

    This was exactly what I needed to hear today! I love how God works that way! Thank you!

  199. caroline says:

    This is so true. The gospel isn’t just for the pretty parts of life, but for the messy parts too. Thank you for being real and vulnerable and not sugarcoating the trials so many go through.

    http://www.in-due-time.com

  200. Cassie says:

    This reading really struck me this morning. This week has been the “lifting of a blanket” or possibly two.
    I’ve struggled with health issues 2 1/2 years and I had gotten to the point it was disabling. The specialists said that they didn’t know what it was so couldn’t give any options. Added to this weight of fear was the knowledge that I was engaged and supposed to be married in a few months. We’d tried every doctor; my friends, family, and my wonderful fiancé and I had been praying since the beginning and I was growing worse. I cried out to God for so long and had gotten nothing. I was considering backing out on the wedding because I couldn’t bear the thought of being a burden to my soon to be husband despite his protests. Then finally two weeks ago (about three before the wedding) God led us to one doctor. That doctor saw what no one in all the 2 1/2years of tests had seen! He said it would be a process of healing but even after my third appointment my body is stronger then I have been in 2years! Rapid recovering. God’s timing is incredible. And now I feel like Hannah rejoicing over what God has done! I feel like dancing and exulting. Especially since I get married in 4 days!
    God has taught me so much while under the blanket. And I don’t regret how much I’ve grown. God took me from a place of rebellion to complete submission even to the point that I was submitted to his will even if I never got well.

    1. DAYRAY says:

      Yey Jesus!!

  201. Morgan says:

    Day after day, these devotional remind me of exactly the truths I need! I am so thankful for SheReadsTruth, it has been a blessing in my life. Recently, I have been held captive by evil thoughts. They’re like bombs satan suddenly drops on me. I hate the evil that enters my mind. I have gotten much better at filling my mind with pure, Godly things, but still, Satan will not give up. Don’t ever lose hope girls, because Satan attacks the hardest when God is working miraculously in you. Satan’s only goal is to make you lose hope in God, and he will feed you any silly lie or trick to achieve this. In my life, Satan has attacked me with evil thoughts, that leave me gasping for air. Don’t turn to your own strength in these times, because God is the only one who has the power to ward off Satan. In Psalm 91 it says, “God is my refuge, my place of safety. He is my God and I trust him.” I encourage you all to read this scripture, it helped me remember that I can always turn to God, in the good and bad times. He will refill your lungs with oxygen if you allow yourself to feel His peace and rest in Him.

    1. Elle says:

      Amen, Morgan! I pray God that continue to give you strength to keep taking every thought captive(2 Corinthians 10:5) so that the devil would not have a foothold! God bless!

    2. Ivy says:

      Thank you for this, Morgan!

  202. Lacy says:

    Yes! That is what I am learning- whatever we focus on and immerse ourselves in will rule our lives. I want to cut off “traditional” worldly things- and immerse myself in God himself and His word. The world’s blanket is heavy and forever changing and complicated. But God’s blanket wraps us in love and PEACE and faithfulness and freedom from anxiety!

  203. ~ B ~ says:

    As I have read through this post and the comments my heart hurts a little. The big picture between all of us is that we are living in a broken world and there is much pain. We all have those metaphorical blankets we identify with. Ones that are monogrammed with the sin or pain we carry and so often there is more than one. We mistakenly bury ourselves under the weight of it because we long to hide from our reality, like a child with a flashlight at night, we find ourselves undercover of circumstance rather than wrapped in peace. There have been seasons for me that nothing could calm my warring heart, in fact, everything seemed to make it worse; in the car mainstream music would scream lyrics at me that would have me crying instantly, magazine covers in grocery aisles would bring up raw emotions and happy families and couples walking by would cause my heart to wring with pain. I realized I needed remove everything from that season that felt like a poison dart from the enemy and it started with immersing myself in God’s word, His constant truth. The more I listened, prayed and read … the less I noticed traditional things. The more I focused the less I cared about the pain and the more I got to know Christ, the less weight I carried, until eventually, I crawled out from under my blanket, exposed and vulnerable but liberated from heartbreak.

    God’s truth is the one thing we can trust without question, it is constant, yet ebbs and flows in our seasons so that what might have spoken to us in one with speak differently to us in another. Our spirits require such immersion with Him, with His Word that otherwise, like a fish out of water, we gasp for air without it. His Word is like water to that fish; life, Grace and truth. So thankful He has given us a weapon to use in this broken world. My prayer today, is for each of us that comes here seeking truth, seeking hope. I am prayerful that you find yourself outside of those blankets, that you find yourself vulnerable, yet freed by Truth and that you know Christ in the midst of your heartbreak.

    1. Dawn says:

      Beautifully said and may you be freed by the Truth as well.

    2. Blanca Patricia says:

      Praying with you, sister. Thank you for this.

    3. Ivy says:

      Thank you so much for sharing, B! Your transparency is beautiful to read.

    4. Christine Marie says:

      Couldn’t agree with these words more! Thank you!

  204. Marcie says:

    I love to swim, though I don’t have the opportunity much any more. I used to swim laps a few times a week for swim team and between the classes I would teach. I remember swimming laps without taking a breath, lungs burning, aching for me to come up for air, but knowing that I could make it, I would push on for the wall before allowing my face to seek the surface.

    I feel that same ache in my chest when I try to live life holding on to the oxygen of His Word without coming up for more. Can I hold out with yesterday’s time in the Word so I can sleep in this morning? By tomorrow morning I’m running on fumes.

    God created us to need oxygen. We won’t live long if we deprive ourselves of its life-sustaining effects. He also created us to need Him, and to be able to find Him and His truth in His Word. We won’t thrive long without it. Some days we might not feel like seeking Truth in His Word (too tired, too busy, too weighted down by the world) but our lungs will burn until we surface . . . or we will allow ourselves to be pulled under, drowned as we withhold what is essential for life and life abundant.

    1. churchmouse says:

      Yes. That is why She Reads Truth is such a blessing. Women in the Word every day. Love that we’re all breathing here together!

    2. Sarah says:

      In college I always struggled with making time in the Word, “quiet time” as my friend and I would call it. When I got out of college and into my first job and an actual routine, I made a habit of doing it every morning before work. Now I wonder how I went so long without seeking God continually. The days I miss my quiet time, I feel off, I feel the world start seeping in. What a difference SRT makes in my life.

    3. Christine Marie says:

      Wow…what a powerful and true analogy! Blessed by this!!

  205. Joanna says:

    The words “weighted blanket” stood out to me this morning, probably because I’ve been looking into purchasing an actual weighted blanket to help with anxiety. What I wouldn’t give to have the panic attacks, worry, and fear go away altogether. It is so easy to become a victim of your own mind. I think about the measures I’ve taken to ease the symptoms and somehow, even after seeking immediate relief, I am always brought back to the leather-bound book with my name engraved on it. When I open the pages and can see the words of God’s Truth coming to life, there is not a time when my heart is not filled with peace. I don’t want to be held down; by a blanket or by life. I want to be full of His oxygen!

  206. churchmouse says:

    I am a bibliophile. I search out book stores wherever I am. I love to hold books in my hand. I love even the smell! I’m often asked which is my favorite, the one book that is my most treasured, the one I never tire of reading again. My answer is always the same, “Oh that would be the Bible. It’s the only one that is always and forever true.” No matter my circumstances, it speaks to me. It is so very personal. As Amanda has accurately said, the gospel is my oxygen. His Word is for me and it is true. It is the best book ever because of its Author. He is a weight – lifter. Nothing is too big or too heavy for Him. And His book tells me He is my friend. Wow. I breathe that truth in every day.

    1. Rachel says:

      churchmouse, I would also describe myself as a bibliophile. I love books. I’m always reading something. But, I’m not yet at a point where the Bible is my favorite book. I want it to be, but if I’m honest with myself, it’s not.

      I’m praying, this year, as I dive into His word more, that it DOES become my favorite. That I realize how life giving it is, and that it becomes intimately interconnected with knowing Jesus for me. That I long to know Him so much, that I can’t imagine not turning to His word every day.

      1. Rachel says:

        You put into words everything I have been feeling lately!

      2. DAYRAY says:

        Yes! I will make this my prayer too! Thank u!

  207. Cristy says:

    Our church has received some devastating news. What jumped out at me in today’s reading was 1 Thess 5:18 … to give thanks. So, I thank God for the trials and valleys He uses to make and mold us into the image of Christ. I don’t understand or like the circumstances, but I know His will is perfect and His plan can always be trusted.

    1. Anna Buchanan says:

      Amen Cristy! Even when we can’t see what is up ahead and when we cannot feel the joy of the present circumstances we know His promises are real and true. He never changes and is always planning our best. May we FULLY trust and depend upon His good provision to His weary and worried children.

    2. churchmouse says:

      Praying for the church to be on its knees and remember that the gates of hell cannot prevail against it. Praying that even a remnant will speak the truth in love and stand firm. God loves His Bride with an everlasting and jealous love.

  208. Kortina says:

    “The gospel is true. It is oxygen…” Oh how these words bring me to my knees praising Him! I am in season where He is stretching my faith, and there are days, moments, where the oxygen seems to have disappeared and I am gasping for breath. Where I feel like I’m being suffocated. But when I reach for my bible, and search for His truth it is there. Reminding me He has called me to do the works on my heart.

    Tomorrow is the last day at my job. I made a choice to walk away to follow His purpose for me. He showed me my gift and put a fire in me to turn it into a business and I followed His instruction. Here comes the shameless plug… I make the best artisan granola you will ever have! The business is growing and I was put in a position to either do what I have been called to do, or stay at my job and watch my business die a slow death. I fought this decision for months. I refused to listen to the Perfect One and trust that any safety net I wanted to try to build would not be as strong as His. After months of prayer I made a choice to finally trust in His plan for me. I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t terrified. I have exhausted all of my resources to keep the business alive. I’ve never done anything this radical in my life. I’m the play it safe girl, check all the boxes girl. And now here I am, just like Peter, in this boat and the sea is raging. But God how will we eat? How will we pay the bills? How will we survive? I have children God. How will I provide? But today’s scriptures reminds me He is holy and Perfect. And loves me as His daughter. He calls for me trust Him. I am Peter reaching for Jesus’s hand, wanting to walk on water. Desiring for the storm around me to not be my focus, but instead focus on Jesus, the one who calls me. To trust that His plan is perfect and is for me to prosper.

    1. Joanna says:

      Kortina, He will take care of you! I would love to support; where can I buy your product? Ps: don’t forget about Etsy! Godspeed!

      1. Kortina says:

        Hi Joanna! Thank you for for your support! You can purchase my granola at http://www.eathappygranola.com. Thank you!

    2. ~ B ~ says:

      I’m with Joanna on this, if you post a link, I’d be happy to support. I understand all too well being called to do something so outside of your character. After God’s pressing for an extended time, I made an actual business out of my talent a few years ago and it was so incredibly hard. I felt so vulnerable and the fear of rejection and defeat was so present but God in his great goodness has been so faithful and has continued to bless me for it. I will include you in prayer as you continue to venture forth on this new and exciting path.

      1. Kortina says:

        ~ B ~
        Thank you for your support! You can purchase the granola at http://www.eathappygranola.com. I would love to connect with you to learn more about your journey into entrepreneurship. I started my business in May of this year and knew God was going to move fast. I NEVER expected this fast! Today so my last day and I’m at peace with it and excited for my future!

    3. Candy says:

      Kortina- I am so excited for you and your new venture! I wish that I could feel God so strongly pushing me! I am a go getter and planner and it is so hard for me to tell is it God’s voice or mine?!! I too would like to know where I can purchase your granola!

      1. Kortina says:

        Candy –
        Thank you for your support! You can purchase the granola at http://www.eathappygranola.com. It’s an amazing yet terrifying feeling to have this strong push from God. I’m a dreamer so many times I also wonder if it’s my voice or Gods voice calling me. My commen sense side wants to change my mind, retract my notice and stay at my job my so-called “safety net”. But God has put such a force on me that my heart and soul won’t allow it to happen. That’s how I know it’s His will and not mine. He is leading me onto a path to draw me closer to Him. Where my faith grows in Him. I will pray that through the noise and distractions you are able to hear Him, to know when He is pushing you!

        1. Candy says:

          Thank you Kortina. I really need your prayers!!

  209. Robin says:

    In 2010 my husband of 20 years left me for a younger woman from our church. It was the most devastating , humiliating and painful thing I had ever gone through… and for my 2 teenage children as well. I remember so clearly that the only thing that gave me peace was Gods word. I couldn’t watch television or read novels as a distraction but God Wied was the only thing I wanted, that could hold my attention. I had never felt that prior to this. I held fast to every promise. Now, years later, I am so blessed with a new husband who treats me like a princess and teaches my what sacrificial love means. God is so good and faithful! And in our despair never leaves us, but walks with us to the other side of the blanket. It is always our choice to grab on or let go.

    1. Rachel Lindsay says:

      What a Testimony to our God’s great goodness, Robin. I am so encouraged to read how The Word got you through a dark time. God bless you.

    2. Tina says:

      I just love our faithful God …so true..so real…
      Praising Him for the blessing of the good man He has brought to you…Robin…praying He continue to bless you and yours…
      Thank you for the hope you fill me with…
      Love,
      Tina xxx

  210. Susan says:

    Heavy blanket has been weighing on me and some needed changes in my work and home situation are heavy on my heart. This is exactly where I am and needed to read this at this moment! God is good to give us what we need at the exact moment we need it! Thank you.

  211. Nikki North says:

    Prayers for you and your husband.

  212. Katie says:

    I am under the blanket now. I discovered my husband has been unfaithful. I feel lost, betrayed, angry. How did this happen to us? I need….oxygen. I need truth. I’m thankful this series has come into my life.

    1. Becky says:

      I’m so sorry, Katie. Praying for you and your husband.

    2. Tina says:

      Katie, keep breathing…keep holding on Katie, keep breathing…keep taking in the life giving Word …He will cover you with His wings, give you peace, walk with you through this storm… His Word is true…
      Praying for you both…
      Hugs…xx

    3. churchmouse says:

      I’m so sorry. And praying hard for you and your husband and the other woman. An opportunity for healing for all now that the dark thing has been brought in to the light. Much opportunity for turning to the Truth and forgiveness and reconciliation in your marriage – for whomever is willing. You are responsible for your decisions, your standing with the Lord. He and she will be responsible for theirs. Do not second guess yourself but hold your head up and hold on to the Lord. He will walk you through this and uphold you, no matter the outcome. Praying. Hard.

  213. Nikki North says:

    Over the past year I have lost my sister, my Grandpa, my dog, and received the painful news of infertility. My heart has reached a state of weighted numbness. I pray and often wonder if HE hears me or has he turned his ear from me. I found this reading to be very much what my heart needed to hear today. HIS word is true.

    1. Michelle Buzek says:

      Praying for you Nikki!

    2. churchmouse says:

      Adding my prayers for you

  214. lynne says:

    I am so blessed by these devotions and all of you ladies that comment. I too have a weighted blanket. My daughter is looking at a prison sentence for a crime that she commited at my house. I turned her in because her behavior was out of control and I didn’t know what else to do. She is so angry and bitter at me. I still visit her in her rehab but she is scared of prison and she is mad because i turned her in. I just want her to know that I love her regardless and I want her to know that Christ loves her. I am visiting her today and praying that i can be an encouragement to her. She is severly depressed and talked about overdosing on herion instead of going to prison. My heart is broken but I keep trying to rest in the fact that God is in control. I covet your prayers. thanks!!

    1. Nikki North says:

      Prayers for you and your daughter. ♡

    2. Michelle Buzek says:

      Praying for you and your daughter!

    3. Kristiana says:

      Lifting you and your daughter up!

      1. Susan says:

        Praying for you and your daughter!

    4. Anna Buchanan says:

      May the Lord bless and keep both of you. May He shower this meeting time with grace and love!

    5. Cristy says:

      Lynne – I will pray!

    6. churchmouse says:

      Oh my. Praying for God to give you the right words and the strength to say them. And praying your daughter would be open to hearing your heartfelt words.

    7. Nads says:

      Praying for you and your daughter. Praying for a hedge of protection around each of you and both of you. In Christ’s hands.

    8. Rachel Lindsay says:

      Praying now for you and your precious daughter, Lynne.

    9. Sue D. says:

      Praying that the Lord breaks though the darkness for your daughter today!

    10. Anne Jones says:

      Praying for you Lynne and your daughter. I pray God will give you strength and peace and that He will open your daughter’s hear to His love through you. You have support here!

    11. Tina says:

      Lynne, my heart aches with yours…and for your daughter….
      Whar a fix, what a pickle, what a mountain…
      But God…
      There is no mountain too high, no valley too low that our God, whose Word is true, cannot reach…He told us we would have trouble…but He also told us to take heart, He would be with us… Praying He be with you and your daughter in this meeting today, but also whikst apart and alone with your individual thought, that He would be present..filling you both with His truth and continued love and grace…
      Will continue to hold you both up in prayer dear sister,,,God with you…Immanuel …xxx

    12. Alexis says:

      I pray that she does not turn to overdosing to end her life and avoid prison. May her prison sentence be the thing that saves her and brings God and sobriety into her life. I pray against any feelings of guilt that you have for turning her in, as you did so because you love her. I pray that you know that you are a wonderful loving mother. Amen.

      1. lynne says:

        Thank you all for the prayers and words of enouragement!! I am crying as I read your words of encouragement. You all are a blessing to me and I am thankful to be a part of this God fearing and loving community.

    13. Rachel says:

      Praying for you, Lynne, and your daughter. That she would know that you did what you did BECAUSE you love her. That she would be able hear your love and encouragement for her. That she would know of Christ’s love for her. That this opens her heart and mind in a way that nothing else has before. And that you would rest in Christ, knowing that he loves you both, no matter what.

    14. Linnea says:

      Oh how my heart aches for you. My daughter is a heroin addict and was recently caught shoplifting. I pray you will be freed from any guilt and that God’s love will shine from your life into your daughters. Most of all I pray you will know you are NOT RESPONSIBLE for your daughters choices and that you would find comfort and breath in each moment and that you will see Gods amazing redemption and grace even in little things! He truly uses ALL THINGS FOR HIS GLORY! Sending love

    15. Christine Marie says:

      Praying for you Lynne that God would show Himself in a very real way for both you and your daughter.

    16. Sophie says:

      I pray that Christ’s everlasting love shines bright into your daughter’s heart and warms every inch of her being. This is not the end of her story. God is not done with her.

    17. Michelle Critcher says:

      Praying for you and your daughter! You’re not alone ❤

    18. Melissa says:

      Praying for you and your daughter. May God make a way when all hope seems lost. God bless you.

    19. Sarah Mars Haugen says:

      Lynne, I will pray for you and your daughter but you must know you did the right thing. I was in a dark place with drugs and my parents had to intervene. It took years for God to fully reveal himself to me after that but once he did I understood that it was Gods love and guidance that led them to do what they had to do. I have been clean for 7 years and am growing in faith everyday. I love you and will be praying for you. Stay strong and know that God is sovereign

  215. Jodie says:

    Amazing. just what I needed. thank you

  216. Tricia C says:

    Thank you Tina. And please don’t apologize for sharing your heart. You don’t know the sisters the Lord speaks to through your words, His words. Have a blessed day!
    And Amanda, thank you for speaking God’s truth, His story.
    Have a blessed day my sisters in Christ!

  217. Tina says:

    God’s Word is true…

    Amen.

    God’s Word is true…

    Amen.
    I have learnt the back to front way that His Word is true…I had the loss, the, devastation, the how will I be able to breathe again…the darkness, the shattered life…before God and I seriously met…or should I say, the God who had His eye on this sparrow, caught me in the downward spiral of despair, HOPE- less, drowning in the pool of brokenness, that was me…
    He met me in His Word….breathing over me words of comfort, words of hope, words of Love, Grace, Peace and HOPE, restoration, but most significantly, He met me face to face…

    God’s Word is true….

    Until those days of heaviness, uncertainty, confusion, despair, fear- filled and brokenness, I had heard God’s Word ….but here’s the thing..I had not listened as well as I heard it…

    God’s Word is true…

    He promises, even when we cannot feel Him close that He will never leave us nor forsake us…to the end of time… that He will comfort those who mourn, that if we believe, we will receive what we ask for…that though we may look, and not see, though we may listen, but not understand, when we turn to Him, He would forgive us…
    God’s Word is true…

    It is life giving Truth..
    It is life saving Truth.
    It is life restoring Truth.
    It is life changing Truth.
    It is life assuring Truth.
    I need that truth. I need it. Every hour, every day… as the song goes…

    God’s Word is true.

    Amen…
    Sorry, this was so close to my heart…
    I love you Amanda, and thank you Sisters for bearing with me a second day…
    Bless you..xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

    1. Tina says:

      This came to mind… a great reminder..

      https://youtu.be/tZIMDcgrF-Q.
      Xx

    2. Pat says:

      Tina, You touch my heart with each post . My daughter is diagnosed with cancer and I struggle each day to see God in this awful disease yet I know He is with us.
      toottt

      1. churchmouse says:

        Praying for you and your daughter. I’m so sorry for that news.

      2. Tina says:

        Pat, I am sorry to hear of your family’s news and struggle…

        I will be praying for God to hold out His faithful hand to you, to show you through His true Word that He is with both you and your daughter, that He holds you in the confusion, and covers you with peace in the struggle….. .He never said it would be easy, but He did faithfully and truthfully say He will be with you and yours through the good, the bad and the ugly times…
        God be with you both…
        With love and prayers,

        Tina.., x

    3. churchmouse says:

      Yes! Yes! Yes! Nodding my head vigorously in agreement with an you have written, Tina. Blessings to you for sharing so faithfully. I take deeper breaths because of you.

  218. Jen woodall says:

    What an amazing read for me. God is good. He is healing, full of never ending love and glory. I too have a weighted blanket. With God in my heart I know I will overcome this sorrow and pain. God is Truth.

    1. Sophie says:

      Amen. You will overcome my sister. His word can pierce through every pain, muscle, bone and cell. Speak His word and trust Him to work.

    2. Tina says:

      I can say no more than that …His Word is true…
      Sending you a hug wrapped in love and prayers..Jen..xxx