Encouragement for Today Podcast - podcast cover

Encouragement for Today Podcast

Proverbs 31 Ministriesproverbs31.org
Life can be so challenging sometimes — we each understand this all too well. It’s not only the big things that seem out of our control, but it's also the little things we face each day. We forget our keys. A friend cancels on us. Our bank card gets declined. We wake up anxious. Negative thoughts fill our mind. It doesn’t take much to leave us feeling hopeless, confused, exhausted or stressed. We wonder what God has to say about what we’re experiencing, but sometimes just getting through the next few hours is hard enough. That’s why Proverbs 31 Ministries created the Encouragement For Today Podcast — a collection of 50 devotions to help you start your day with a biblical perspective you can carry with you no matter what lies ahead.
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Episodes

“The Best Battle Plan” by Lysa TerKeurst

In today’s episode, you’ll hear a devotion written by Lysa TerKeurst based on Joshua 5:13, which says, “Now when Joshua was near Jericho, he looked up and saw a man standing in front of him with a drawn sword in his hand. Joshua went up to him and asked, ‘Are you for us or for our enemies?’” (NIV). We hope today’s devotion reminds you that God is not only big enough to handle your impending battle but also loving enough to address the doubt, fear and insecurity running through your mind. Related...

Dec 27, 20237 min

“The Perfect Gift” by Jenny Wheeler

In today’s episode, you’ll hear a devotion written by Jenny Wheeler based on James 1:17, which says, “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows” (NIV). We hope today’s devotion reminds you that God loves you deeply and no prayer is too small or too big for Him to answer. Related Resources: The gift of salvation is available to all who confess and believe, made possible through the birth, life, death an...

Dec 20, 20237 min

“3 Ways To Overcome Disappointment at Christmas” by Lynn Cowell

In today’s episode, you’ll hear a devotion written by Lynn Cowell based on Luke 1:30, which says, “But the angel said to her, ‘Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God’” (NIV). We hope today’s devotion helps you manage expectations this holiday season and put your confidence in Christ alone so that even when disappointment comes, your hope can be unshaken. Related Resources: If you need to re-center your heart and focus in the midst of the holiday season chaos, download our free res...

Dec 13, 20236 min

“Who I Am Doesn’t Feel Good Enough” by Lysa TerKeurst

In today’s episode, you’ll hear a devotion written by Lysa TerKeurst based on Luke 1:38a-b, which says, “‘I am the Lord’s servant,’ Mary answered. ‘May your word to me be fulfilled’” (NIV). We hope today’s devotion reminds you that no matter who seems better qualified for your calling, God is simply asking for your willingness. Related Resources: For five free devotions from Lysa TerKeurst that will help you overcome the feeling of “not good enough,” download the free resource “Chosen, Called &a...

Dec 06, 20236 min

“Hearing God’s Invitation” by Lysa TerKeurst

In today’s episode, you’ll hear a devotion written by Lysa TerKeurst based on Isaiah 30:21, which says, “Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, ‘This is the way; walk in it’” (NIV). We hope today’s devotion reminds you that when you obey God’s instruction for today, you will develop a keen awareness of His direction for tomorrow. Related Resources: For more from Proverbs 31 Ministries, head to our website at proverbs31.org , where you can su...

Nov 29, 20235 min

“Grace for the Small Things” by Jasmine Williams

In today’s episode, you’ll hear a devotion written by Jasmine Williams based on 2 Peter 1:2, which says, “Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord” (NASB). We hope today’s devotion encourages you to generously extend grace to others as God has extended grace to you — and experience the joy and peace that’s found through His free gift. Related Resources: For more from Proverbs 31 Ministries, head to our website at proverbs31.org , where you can subscribe ...

Nov 22, 20236 min

“When I Have Zero Time To Spare” by Amy Carroll

In today’s episode, you’ll hear a devotion written by Amy Carroll based on Luke 2:49b, which says, “Did you not know that I must be about My Father’s business?” (NKJV). We hope today’s devotion reminds you that boundaries are not only biblical — they are what help you live and love others best. Related Resources: For more from Proverbs 31 Ministries, head to our website at proverbs31.org , where you can subscribe to Encouragement for Today Devotions in written format, delivered to your inbox eac...

Nov 15, 20237 min

“The Wrong Way To Be Right” by Kelly Barbrey

In today’s episode, you’ll hear a devotion written by Kelly Barbrey based on James 4:10, which says, “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you” (NRSV). We hope today’s devotion encourages you to humbly seek the Lord for wisdom when you’re confronted with interpersonal conflict and tension. Related Resources: For more from Proverbs 31 Ministries, head to our website at proverbs31.org , where you can subscribe to Encouragement for Today Devotions in written format, delivered to you...

Nov 08, 20235 min

“Pressing Through the Pain” by Lysa TerKeurst

In today’s episode, you’ll hear a devotion written by Lysa TerKeurst based on James 4:8a, which says, “Draw near to God and He will draw near to you” (NKJV). We hope today’s devotion encourages you to invite God into your pain so that you can experience His closeness in the midst of what you’re going through. Related Resources: For more from Proverbs 31 Ministries, head to our website at proverbs31.org , where you can subscribe to Encouragement for Today Devotions in written format, delivered to...

Nov 01, 20236 min

“Be the Answer to Their Prayers” by Karen Ehman

In today’s episode, you’ll hear a devotion written by Karen Ehman based on Philippians 2:4, which says, “Everyone should look not to his own interests, but rather to the interests of others” (CSB). We hope today’s devotion reminds you that God wants to use you to have an impact on someone else’s life. Related Resources: For more from Proverbs 31 Ministries, head to our website at proverbs31.org , where you can subscribe to Encouragement for Today Devotions in written format, delivered to your in...

Oct 25, 20236 min

“Small Stretches, Big Miracles” by Shala W. Graham

In today’s episode, you’ll hear a devotion written by Shala W. Graham based on Luke 6:10, which says, “And after looking around at them all he said to him, ‘Stretch out your hand.’ And he did so, and his hand was restored” (ESV). We hope today’s devotion reminds you that God is trustworthy and He wants to work in your life through your small steps of obedience. Related Resources: For more from Proverbs 31 Ministries, head to our website at proverbs31.org , where you can subscribe to Encouragemen...

Oct 18, 20235 min

“The Power of a Pause” by Laura Bailey

In today’s episode, you’ll hear a devotion written by Laura Bailey based on Ecclesiastes 7:9, which says, “Be not quick in your spirit to become angry, for anger lodges in the heart of fools” (ESV). We pray today’s devotion reminds you that while you can’t control what happens to you, you can control your response. Related Resources: For more from Proverbs 31 Ministries, head to our website at proverbs31.org , where you can subscribe to Encouragement for Today Devotions in written format, delive...

Oct 11, 20237 min

“But What Do I Do About That Deep Ache in My Soul?” by Lysa TerKeurst

In today’s episode, you’ll hear a devotion written by Lysa TerKeurst based on Ephesians 3:17b-18, which says, “And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ” (NIV). We hope today’s devotion encourages you that in Christ, you are fully loved, accepted and empowered to say “no” to lies so you can say “yes” to the fullness of God. Related Resources: For more from...

Oct 04, 20237 min

“Time To Celebrate a New Season” by Sarah Geringer

In today’s episode, you’ll hear a devotion written by Sarah Geringer based on Ecclesiastes 3:1, which says, “For everything there is a season, a time for every activity under heaven” (NLT). We hope today’s devotion reminds you that God wants to build your faith through each and every season. Related Resources: For more from Proverbs 31 Ministries, head to our website at proverbs31.org , where you can subscribe to Encouragement for Today Devotions in written format, delivered to your inbox each w...

Sep 27, 20237 min

“Courage for the Woman Who Feels Insecure” by Kia Stephens

In today’s episode, you’ll hear a devotion written by Kia Stephens based on Joshua 1:9, which says, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go” (NIV). We hope today’s devotion encourages you to be strong and courageous and to anchor your security in God. Related Resources: For more from Proverbs 31 Ministries, head to our website at proverbs31.org , where you can subscribe to Encouragement f...

Sep 20, 20237 min

“The Valley of Blessing” by Brenda Bradford Ottinger

In today’s episode, you’ll hear a devotion written by Brenda Bradford Ottinger based on 2 Chronicles 20:26, which says, “On the fourth day they gathered in the Valley of Blessing, which got its name that day because the people praised and thanked the LORD there. It is still called the Valley of Blessing today” (NLT). We hope today’s devotion reminds you to keep your eyes on God in the battle you’re currently facing. Related Resources: For more from Proverbs 31 Ministries, head to our website at ...

Sep 13, 20235 min

“Five Prayers for Your Child” by Lysa TerKeurst

In today’s episode, you’ll hear a devotion written by Lysa TerKeurst based on Luke 18:1, which says, “Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up” (NIV). We hope today’s devotion encourages you to fight for your child through prayer. Related Resources: For more from Proverbs 31 Ministries, head to our website at proverbs31.org , where you can subscribe to Encouragement for Today Devotions in written format, delivered to your inbox each weekda...

Sep 06, 20237 min

“Hope for the Dark Places in Life” by Melissa Taylor

In today’s episode, you’ll hear a devotion written by Melissa Taylor based on Isaiah 53:5, which says, “But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed” (NIV). We hope today’s devotion encourages you that no matter what you’ve been through, you are a child of God, worthy of love. Related Resources: Find support at the National Sexual Assault Hotline website: online.rainn.org . Or call t...

Aug 30, 20238 min

“Our Extra-Ordinary Calling” by Alexandra Hoover

In today’s episode, you’ll hear a devotion written by Alexandra Hoover based on Matthew 28:19-20, which says, “Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe everything I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age” (CSB). We hope today’s devotion reminds you that God can use you wherever you’re planted. Related Resources: For more from Proverbs 31 Ministr...

Aug 23, 20236 min

“The Prime Time for Temptation” by Sarah Geringer

In today’s episode, you’ll hear a devotion written by Sarah Geringer based on Matthew 4:1-3, which says, “Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. After fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry. The tempter came to him and said, ‘If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread’” (NIV). We pray today’s devotion encourages you that God can and will help you resist the devil’s attacks on your thought life when you invite Him in as your ...

Aug 16, 20236 min

“Rendering the Enemy Powerless” by Lysa TerKeurst

In today’s episode, you’ll hear a devotion written by Lysa TerKeurst based on 1 Peter 5:8, which says, “Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour” (ESV). We hope today’s devotion reminds you that God’s promises and Truth are always a perfect match for our problems. Related Resources: For more from Proverbs 31 Ministries, head to our website at proverbs31.org , where you can subscribe to Encouragement for Today Devotions in...

Aug 09, 20236 min

“Finding Christ Between the Chaos and the Calm” by Jasmine Williams

In today’s episode, you’ll hear a devotion written by Jasmine Williams based on 1 Kings 17:13, which says, “But Elijah said to her, ‘Don’t be afraid! Go ahead and do just what you’ve said, but make a little bread for me first. Then use what’s left to prepare a meal for yourself and your son’” (NLT). We hope today’s devotion encourages you that even just a snippet of God’s Word can give you the courage you need. Related Resources: For more from Proverbs 31 Ministries, head to our website at prove...

Aug 02, 20235 min

“Hope When You’re Hanging by a Thread” by Alicia Bruxvoort

In today’s episode, you’ll hear a devotion written by Alicia Bruxvoort based on Hebrews 4:12a, which says, “For the word of God is living and active and full of power [making it operative, energizing, and effective]” (AMP). We hope today’s devotion encourages you that when you take hold of God’s Truth, the Truth holds you too — especially when you’re hanging by a thread. Related Resources: For more from Proverbs 31 Ministries, head to our website at proverbs31.org , where you can subscribe to En...

Jul 26, 20236 min

“Where To Find Strength When You Feel Weak” by Amy Carroll

In today’s episode, you’ll hear a devotion written by Amy Carroll based on Nehemiah 8:10, which says, “Nehemiah said, ‘Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing prepared. This day is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the LORD is your strength’” (NIV). We hope today’s devotion encourages you that during your seasons of weakness, you can find strength in God’s Word, in joy and in community. Related Resources: For more from Proverbs 31 Ministri...

Jul 19, 20237 min

“Does It Really Matter If I Read God’s Word Today?” by Lysa TerKeurst

In today’s episode, you’ll hear a devotion written by Lysa TerKeurst based on Isaiah 55:11, which says, “So is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it” (ESV). We hope today’s devotion reminds you of the eternal benefits of spending time in God’s Word. Related Resources: For more from Proverbs 31 Ministries, head to our website at proverbs31.org , where you can subscribe to Encouragement for...

Jul 12, 20235 min

“To the Woman Who Feels Like She’s Fighting Alone” by Nicki Koziarz

In today’s episode, you’ll hear a devotion written by Nicki Koziarz based on Galatians 6:2, which says, “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ” (ESV). We hope today’s devotion encourages you that it’s not a burden, but a blessing, to be able to walk with someone through life and remind them they’re not alone — because we can’t do this life alone. Related Resources: For more from Proverbs 31 Ministries, head to our website at proverbs31.org , where you can subscribe to Enco...

Jul 05, 20235 min

“Hope in the One Who Does Not Grow Weary” by Corrie Gerbatz

In today’s episode, you’ll hear a devotion written by Corrie Gerbatz based on Isaiah 40:31, which says, “but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint” (NIV). We pray today’s devotion encourages you that God can renew your weary soul with the strength and perseverance you so desperately need. Related Resources: For more from Proverbs 31 Ministries, head to our website at proverbs31....

Jun 28, 20236 min

“Releasing Control” by Lysa TerKeurst

In today’s episode, you’ll hear a devotion written by Lysa TerKeurst based on 2 Timothy 1:7, which says, “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline” (NIV). We hope today’s devotion reminds you that when fear feeds your doubts, you can choose to trust that God is in control and holds your very life in His hands. Related Resources: For more from Proverbs 31 Ministries, head to our website at proverbs31.org , where you can subscribe to Encourage...

Jun 21, 20236 min

“God’s Comfort for Our Father Wounds” by Kia Stephens

In today’s episode, you’ll hear a devotion written by Kia Stephens based on Psalm 34:18, which says, “The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit” (NIV). We hope today’s devotion reminds you that every time our heart is broken or our spirit is crushed, we can bring all our broken pieces to God our Father, knowing He is near and able to save. Related Resources: For more from Proverbs 31 Ministries, head to our website at proverbs31.org , where you can subscrib...

Jun 14, 20237 min

“It Is Well” by Anitha Abraham

In today’s episode, you’ll hear a devotion written by Anitha Abraham based on 2 Kings 4:26, which says, “Please run now to meet her and say to her, ‘Is it well with you? Is it well with your husband? Is it well with the child?’ And she answered, ‘It is well’” (NASB1995). We hope today’s devotion encourages you that even when we don’t know the outcome of our situation, we do know our God, and we can trust He is up to something good. Related Resources: For more from Proverbs 31 Ministries, head to...

Jun 07, 20236 min
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