Engagement (31-Day Devotionals for Life): Preparing for Marriage

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This is a book I didn’t know I desperately needed. The freedom and grace that it offers are a massive gift to the church. It’s so helpful, so practical, and so deeply Christ-centered: I wish every teenager could have a copy.” Day Devotionals for Life are a series of monthly devotionals on all manner of topics a pastor might encounter while serving his congregation. Here’s their catalog as of this writing. What emotions do you feel in your heart? Heartache and pain are undoubtedly among them. You’re probably hurting so badly that all you really want to do is cry. And that’s okay! Even the Lord Jesus Christ wept when faced with the tragedy and sorrow of death (see John 11:35). He was so deeply moved within because of the sorrow resulting from Lazarus’ death that He began to weep. Romans 8:28 says, “And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” What hope does this Scripture give you in the midst of tragedy, loss, and uncertainty?

These books are designed to give readers 31 days of 1-2 devotions, applying the Word of God to the struggle. How does it feel to know that you can find permanent shelter in God, where everything you need (peace, joy, strength, protection, hope, etc.) is provided? Is there any hope for men and women in the “voluntary slavery” of pornography addiction? Deepak Reju shows that this worship problem can be fought only with a greater love for Christ. This month-long devotional, with reflection questions and practical suggestions for action, gives you the encouragement and resources you need to fight in the war being waged for your soul every day.Pray with someone else who shares your sorrow. Take turns praying for one another that God will encourage your hearts and give you hope. The problem is that no one relates to a database. No one develops a friendship with information. You can't get close to cold disconnected facts or trust them. As Brandon's relationship with the Lord grew colder it affected his relationships with people as well because he treated them the same way - as objects to study instead of people to love. As you pass through the deep waters of your circumstances, you may be wondering, Who can rescue me from this? Be encouraged! Even in the deepest of waters, God promises to be with the one who trusts in Him. He alone can truly rescue you and keep you from drowning. Just as Jesus rescued Peter when He invited him to walk on water in the midst of a storm (see Matthew 14:22-33). At first, Peter trusted Jesus and joined Him on the water, but as soon as he began to focus on the storm, and give in to the fear of it, he began to sink. Still, when he cried out, “Lord, save me!” (Matthew 12:30), Jesus stretched out His hand and rescued Peter.

God knows in great detail the devastation caused by tragedy. He understands the pain and sorrow acquainted with grief and loss. He understands because He is all knowing. Furthermore, Jesus endured suffering (see Isaiah 53) and experienced pain—even the pain of feeling abandoned (see Matthew 27:46). And because God is with you always, He knows that you are hurting. He sees your pain, and hears the cries of your heart. You are not alone in your suffering; He is there for you.Addictions begin with a choice—but come to trap and define you. These daily devotionals refocus us on the God who can restructure lives and disentangle sinners from enslavement. When you have some time, open a Bible and read Psalm 91 to learn more about the blessings of taking refuge in God. In a desperate fight for survival, many people passed through the floodwaters left by Hurricane Katrina in a frantic search for higher ground. It had to be a frightening experience to wade, and in some areas, swim, through the murky, contaminated waters to save self, family members, neighbors, family pets, and in some cases, total strangers. But in the midst of fear, desperation, and uncertainty, many passed through the deep waters courageously, and were eventually rescued and taken to safety. If you or someone you love struggles with shame, you will be helped and equipped by the tender truths of Scripture that Esther has compiled. This book has ministered to my soul.”

The world pressures us to fulfill our desires—but God tells us to master them through contentment. This practical daily devotional helps us cultivate thankfulness in situations that fuel discontent. But as difficult as this life storm may be, you are not alone. God is with you always. He loves you, and cares about what is going on in your life. He hears your cries and sees your pain. Moreover, He understands. This devotional gets right to the point. It [opens] Scripture passages that you might already know . . . so that you see more and are drawn right in.” Biblical counselor Esther Smith shows how the gospel enables people with illness to release guilt and shame, balance work and rest, and get through difficult days, drawing closer to God.

Daily readings articulate perfectly what many pilgrims have been thinking but have been afraid to say aloud. This beautiful, unveiling devotional vividly shows the power of confronting wounds as it exhorts us toward the healing that awaits us in Christ.” This devotional heavily emphasizes practical ways we can reflect on, and in many cases act on, the insights Tautges unearths in the passages he chooses.” Oftentimes, members never needed the meeting, although some did, and he was always eager to meet at that point. When I asked him why he did this, his simple answer was: “Always send your people to God first.”