Devotionals
In 2015, I was given the opportunity to write devotionals for LandMAX Properties and Timber Company, where I worked part-time. The "Words of Encouragement" devotional series was originally inspired by LandMAX’s owner, Chad Smith, whose heart has always been to be a light to others through his daily work. Though my husband, Matt, and I took on a new ministry role out of town shortly after this began, I’ve continued writing for LandMAX ever since (and sometimes Matt jumps in to write as well)!
We’re incredibly grateful for the many years we’ve been part of this wonderful vision for the LandMAX community, and now we’re excited to extend these devotionals to you, too!
Peaceful, Faithful & Wise
Have you ever read a story where you thought it was going one way, but it ended up going somewhere entirely different? That’s exactly what happened to me with this one. To give you a little background: Joab, a mighty warrior in King David’s army, is pursuing a man named Sheba. Sheba is causing great division in the kingdom and trying to stir rebellion against David’s rule. In fact, King David feared Sheba might cause even more damage than his own son, Absalom.
Under Control
I don’t know about you, but I get really frustrated when life feels out of my control. Still, it’s an inevitable part of life—we can make all the plans we want and be great at setting goals and achieving them, but sometimes life throws us curveballs we didn’t see coming.
But First
We find many incredible miracle stories told during the life of the prophet Elijah. One time, there was a drought in the land that lasted several years. God provided food and water for Elijah through ravens and a brook—until the brook eventually ran dry. Then, God told Elijah to go to a new location where a widow would provide for him next. Little did he know, upon his arrival, the widow had a pretty big need of her own: she had only enough for one final meal before she and her son would die from starvation. Not only did God use the widow to provide for Elijah, but He also used Elijah to provide for the widow. Elijah’s response to the widow was miraculous—but also intriguing. He responded to her need by telling her to feed him first.
Play in the Waves
This week, Matt and I were able to get away for some much-needed rest to celebrate our 15th anniversary on the beach! I love going out to the ocean and listening to the waves. There is nothing more peaceful than this. I feel like I can always hear Jesus so clearly out there—it’s my favorite place to be still and listen to Him.
What Do I Say Now?
Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you had no clue what to say? I’m not just talking about a simple loss for words—I mean being so overwhelmed that you don’t even know how to begin the conversation. If you’ve been there, you’re in good company. I think that happens to all of us! If I’m honest, it’s easy to avoid those conversations because they can be uncomfortable. We don’t want to say the wrong thing, give bad advice, or make a mistake that someone else pays the price for. It feels safer to stay silent than to risk getting it wrong.