There’s No Place Like Home

My Proverbs 31 devotion today, titled No Place Like Home, serves as a reminder of how beautiful our heavenly home will be, and how excited we can be as a result of knowing that God has prepared a special place for us in eternity.

As promised in the devotion, below you can watch a video where I share about when my journey with God really began and where my heart was when I wrote today’s devotion.  If after reading the devotion and watching the video you feel led to recommit to your life to Christ today, or you have decided to accept Him as your personal Savior for the very first time, I would so so so so love to celebrate with you!

So please consider leaving a comment letting me know of your life impacting decision for Christ, whatever it may be. Maybe you are already walking with Christ, and instead you are deciding to forgive someone and claim God’s peace over your life, or maybe you are deciding to commit to trust Him with a certain situation in your life, or maybe you are deciding to take God off the back burner and make Him a priority from this day forward.

However God is whispering to your heart, make a leap of faith today and listen!

To download my free 7 Day Prayer Printable offered in the devotion, with sample prayers for every area of your life, including salvation, faith, praise, children, marriage, finances and work, please visit my Pinterest page HERE.   (please note this is a large file – if your computer/Google says it can’t scan it, just click to download. It is a safe file. Once downloaded, you can print for future reference.) 

 

If you are receiving this post in email and cannot see the video, please click here.

EFT photoAs a special bonus today, I would love to give away a copy of Proverbs 31’s brand new book which doesn’t even officially release until next week!  It’s called Encouragement for Today, Devotions for Everyday Living and it is an amazing resource for your spiritual walk.

Anyone who leaves their comment about how God is speaking to their heart will be entered to win!  Winner announced next week – subscribe to my blog to receive email notification or stop by my blog next week to see the winning name.

71 Comments

  1. Sally on Friday, September 20, 2013 at 8:06 am

    Thank you for the video message. I could relate to your story. I, too, was raised in a christian home but I also know that it took way into my adult life to “figure it out”.
    I pray that my children will be “wiser sooner” and that they will put God in the center of their marriages, families and lives. I pray that they will all seek God and make their relationship with Him personal and not just “go through the motions” .
    If I had a “do-over”, I wish that I would have put more of an emphasis on this while I raised them rather than just attending church, sunday school, etc. I have one son-in-law who grew up in a christian home, lost his Dad at 14 and has not really attended church since then. I pray that God will seek him and draw all of my children and my son(s) and daughter in law closer to Him.
    This is my every day prayer.
    Sally



    • tmiles on Friday, September 20, 2013 at 12:00 pm

      Sally – we all have things in our life we wish we could “do over”. But feeling guilty over where we may have fallen short is one of the enemys tactics for keeping us discouraged. Let’s claim God’s grace today and have faith in His power to reach our children’s hearts no matter how old they are!

      Lord, I pray that you will bless Sallys family and intervene powerfully in the hearts of her chidren and son in law so that they will recognize You at work in their lives, and have a desire for You that they have never felt before. Sally laid a foundation of faith in their hearts, and I pray that they build a desire for a personal relationship with you. Amen.



      • Sally on Monday, September 23, 2013 at 7:23 am

        Thank you 🙂



  2. Crystal on Friday, September 20, 2013 at 8:08 am

    Hi Tracie~

    I really loved your devotion today! I grew up in a home that claimed to be Christian but we only went to Church on Christmas and maybe Easter and that only lasted a few years. We did not pray or talk about God unless someone was dying or very sick/injured. I did all the life events you do as a Catholic such as 1st Holy Communion, confirmation, etc. I had no idea why I had to do these things and was actually upset that I had to do these things because I did not understand them. I had my first child young and my husband and I struggled a lot over the next few years. We were committed to being parents and having a nice home. We still did not have God in our lives. My husband also grew up Christian in the same fashion I did. He even told me that he did not know if he even believed in God. Over the next few years I tried to better my life as I longed for “something” but didn’t know what. We had another child and I went to college, graduated with a BSW and found a job in Social Work a few months after graduating. Things were looking good. My husband worked all the time and was not home or in the house much. That is when I met “our Angel” sent from God to our family. Trish became a huge part of our lives and I believe God sent her to us in order to find him. She helped my husband find God and I was on my journey as well. For the first time in our lives, we were truly happy!!!! We had another child, bought the acreage we had been looking for and we loved each other more than we ever had. Many things happened over the next few years and I took another job only a few minutes away from home. I soon found out I was pregnant yet again, which I did struggle with being pregnant again as I thought my life was taking me in totally different direction, but God’s plan was much bigger than I so I finally accepted it and began my journey with God in a ver different way. Life got in the way and somewhere my husband was lead away from God’s path which has sadden me. I have begun a very new journey with God and I am becoming much closer to him. I had decided about 6 months ago that Jesus is my savior. The prayer that your devotion took us to this morning about Knowing Jesus is what I found about 6 months ago that really changed my life. I know I have a lot to learn but I hear God leading me to helping local people in my small town. I thought it was to start or lead a Bible Study but I think he is leading me to work with young girls in some way. I keep praying and listening and learning. I had just completed the OBS with Melissa Taylor (What Happens When Woman Say Yes to God) and I am signed up for A Confident Heart OBS. This is just what I need. I am very sad that my husband is so lost and I wanted to “make” him find God again but I realized that I can’t make him so as a family (My 4 children and myself) we are going to show him through our actions and hope that he finds his way back. I love Proverbs 31 Ministry and I hope to someday be a part of such an amazing Ministry as that I what God is calling me to do in time. Thank you Tracie for sharing your video and devotion today. Please pray for my husband to find his way back to our Lord and for my family to continue seeking Him every day!!!
    Crystal



    • NANCY SILVERS on Friday, September 20, 2013 at 11:07 am

      Crystal-Thank you for sharing so much of your life and heart! I think it is wonderful that you and your children are pursuing your relationship with Christ and hope to bring your husband back not by nagging him but by your example. Never stop believing that, even in this time away for God, that God is still working in your husbands heart. So glad you are taking the next OBS-you never know where God will call you and having a Confident Heart through Jesus will definitely strengthen your walk and ability to say YES!



    • tmiles on Friday, September 20, 2013 at 12:05 pm

      Crystal – thank you for sharing your life with us. We have all seasons in life where our faith is stronger than others, and sometimes life does pull us away from God temporarily. But what a great vessel of God you and your children can be to your husband as you serve as the hands of feet of Jesus in your own home.

      Lord, you know the desire of Crystals heart is to have her husband draw closer to You. We come to You today asking for You to supernaturally intervene in His heart and in His life and help him have a desire to serve and love You once again. Your Holy Spirit still resides in his heart, so we ask you make that fire come alive again and to open his eyes to see that he needs You. Fill Crystals heart with clarity and reassurance about what You are calling her to do, the purpose You have equipped her to serve, and open doors for her. Equip her to do ministry in Your name in her community and also in her household. Amen.



  3. Teresa on Friday, September 20, 2013 at 8:28 am

    I thank God for P31 ministry! I am encouraged, strengthened and challenged daily to walk closely with Jesus. Thank you Tracie for your contribution to that. God is drawing me closer to Himself daily and showing me His faithfulness. I strive to be in constant communion with Him and pray about everything. May mercy, peace and love be multiplied to you every day and in all ways.



    • tmiles on Friday, September 20, 2013 at 12:06 pm

      Thank you Teresa! I love your words, they are a challenge we can all undertake. 🙂



  4. Cynthia on Friday, September 20, 2013 at 8:33 am

    Your devotional and video really touched me. A few months ago I recommitted my life to Jesus Christ. And my fiance gave life for the first time. And on September 8, 2013 we were baptized together. So we are rather new to the family of Christ.



    • tmiles on Friday, September 20, 2013 at 12:09 pm

      Cynthia – thank you so much for sharing! That is something to truly celebrate! Nothing is more important in a marriage than to be grounded in Christ and passionate about your faith! That blesses my heart to read that you were both baptized on the same day and became a new family in Christ together!

      Jesus, thank you for drawing Cynthia closer to You and for reaching out and touching the heart of her fiance. We praise You today for bringing them together as a couple, and for bringing them together in You. Bless their marriage and walk them through all the coming days. Amen.



  5. Sharon on Friday, September 20, 2013 at 9:23 am

    Thank you for your posts everyday. They are encouraging and usually what I need to hear for that day. I love Proverb 31 ministries and the encouragement it gives.



    • tmiles on Friday, September 20, 2013 at 12:09 pm

      Thank you Sharon!



  6. Ellen on Friday, September 20, 2013 at 9:33 am

    I grew up in a Christian home with wonderful, caring, Christian parents who were active in church. Attending church was expected and I went. It was always just a life requirement to show up. I didn’t “get” the relationship with Christ part until much later, however. I gave my life to Christ as a young adult and began a journey of faith. Even then…I had a very passive role. I’m now in my early 50s and have fairly recently recommitted myself to my relationship with my heavenly Father. I am attending church because it brings me joy and sanctuary. I read the bible to learn as much as I can about my side in this relationship. I’m attending Bible Study at church. I’m reading blogs and books written by Christian men & women who are further along in their journey than I. This is a life-long journey, but I’m stepping up the pace!



    • tmiles on Friday, September 20, 2013 at 12:12 pm

      Ellen – what a joy to read how God has fueled your faith recently and it’s obvious you can’t get enough of Him! That is definitely something we call pray for, to have such passion for a relationship with Him that we saturate our lives with being in His Presence. It is never too late to make Him a priority and claim the joy He wants to pour into our lives. Thank you for encouraging us all to step up the pace!

      Lord, I praise You for what you are doing in Ellens life and ask You to continue drawing her close, helping her learn more about You and equipping her to be a shining light for You! Amen.



  7. Melissa on Friday, September 20, 2013 at 9:39 am

    Thank you , Tracie, for your message today. Sometimes, I wonder what God is trying to say to me. My question to Him of, “What should I do?” lets me know that I just need to listen and hear HIm. So, today, I feel God is asking me to be quiet and listen to Him and really hear what He is saying to me.
    Blessings to you. 🙂



    • tmiles on Friday, September 20, 2013 at 12:20 pm

      Melissa – that is a great point. It’s hard when we arent sure what God might be calling us to do, but listening for His holy whispers and spending time in His Word is a great way to try to gain insight and clarity about God’s voice.

      Lord, I pray today that you give Melissa clarity and help her to know when You are speaking to her. Open her heart to hear your whispers and open her calendar so that she has time to be quiet with you during the day and listen. Thank you for her heart to know You more intimately. Amen.



  8. Jenn on Friday, September 20, 2013 at 9:44 am

    God has been speaking to me about balance and letting go of things which I hold on to through knots in has placed in my life to untie.



    • tmiles on Friday, September 20, 2013 at 12:24 pm

      Jenn – so many of us need to hear God’s nudgings about slowing down and balancing all the things in life that pull for our attention. Sometimes He does let us go through hard times so we can figure what His will is for every aspect of our life.

      Lord, I pray that Jenn would know how to make adjustments in her life so that she can claim your peace and joy every day. Help her to know how to ‘untie the knots’ she is facing and give her the strength and courage and spiritual clarity to deal with whatever issues she faces. Amen.



  9. Meredith Van Tamelen on Friday, September 20, 2013 at 9:48 am

    I thank you for the devotion today. I have just completed a study with Proverbs31 and look forward to the next study. I so glad that the Lord led me to that study. It has helped me tremendously and I give him the praise for directing me and the love He has shown me just doing that study. I have taken Lysa TerKeurst’s 30 day challenge for God to reveal more of him to me and He has been doing this and what a wonderful walk we are having. Thank you Lord. Blessings to all today and have a happy day.



    • tmiles on Friday, September 20, 2013 at 12:25 pm

      Thanks for sharing Meredith! Your words are great encouragement – when we take time to make God a priority He will never let us down by not showing up big time! I pray that we can all experience that same joy and be able to enjoy a close with Him too. Happy day to you!



  10. Jessica F on Friday, September 20, 2013 at 10:05 am

    Thank you for your devotion today. I know I love God but I have a really hard time trusting Him with everything. Your devotion reminded me that to love Him is to Trust Him.



    • tmiles on Friday, September 20, 2013 at 12:28 pm

      Jessica – thanks for your honesty. Trusting God and His ways, especially when we don’t agree with them or understand them, is one of the hardest things that a believer is called to do. No matter how much we love Jesus, sometimes it is still hard to trust that He has everything under control.

      Dear Jesus, you know its hard for us to trust you when we are facing challenges, or when we are upset or afraid. Fill Jessica’s heart today with an overwhelming sense of Your Presence and give her a glimpse of how You are at work in her circumstances. Infuse her with peace today so that she can rest in You, and focus on loving You so much that her trust builds day by day. Amen.



  11. Sandra on Friday, September 20, 2013 at 10:16 am

    I enjoyed the video and I always enjoy the encouragement of the day as I share it with many women in my work place. In spite of what I face day to day I can hear God telling me that I am not alone even when my back is against the wall and there sometimes seem to be no way. God tells me that he will never leave me nor forsake me that he will be with me until the end. I’m reminded that I serve a powerful God, who is mighty and powerful. God is my peace, my joy, my strength and my all in all. Yes, with God all thiings are possible. Please continue blessing the hearts of many with the Word of God.

    Best Wishes,
    Sandra



    • tmiles on Friday, September 20, 2013 at 12:38 pm

      Sandra – what a blessing to read that you share the devotions with your co-workers. That is something I wish happened more often all across America! The workplace is one of the hardest places to stand up for our faith, and often the place where we are faced with great temptation, frustration, and even exasperation. But thank you for reminding us that no matter how ‘lost’ the office seems, God is still there with us, giving us what we need to get through another day.

      Lord, thank you for Sandra and the witness she is to the people she works with. I pray that as she continues to trust You that hearts will begin moving and that she can see the great things You are up to. Strength her each day and shower her with peace and purpose. Amen.



  12. Janice on Friday, September 20, 2013 at 10:17 am

    Thank you for your devotion today. I have a friend that just found out he has cancer and the doctors are giving him 2-3 weeks to live. He is not a Christian and I want him to accept Jesus and not he has a heavenly home. Please pray that my husband and I have the opportunity to lead him to Christ. This is so heavy on my heart.



    • tmiles on Friday, September 20, 2013 at 12:42 pm

      Oh Janice, I am so sorry to hear about your friend. That is terrible news to bear for him and those who love him. Sometimes it takes being faced with eternity before our hearts are gaping open to know God. So although this news is so sad, I will pray that his heart is open to accept Jesus before it’s too late.

      Dear Lord, our hearts break when we see the sufferings of others, and especially in times of great loss. Lord I pray that Janice and her husband will be mighty vessels of your power in the coming weeks as they reach in Your name to witness and minister to their hurting friend. Give them both the words and the wisdom and the willingness to do and say whatever it takes to reach his heart. Prepare their friends heart to receive You and to want to know You. Give him a longing for his eternal home that is so strong that he cant wait to accept You into his life. We know it is never too late to begin loving You and I pray that you reach down into the depths of this mans heart and give him an insatiable hunger and thirst for you. I also pray for Janices heart, and that Your peace will override the weight of this burden. Make Your Presence known in this situation Lord, to all the people involved. Amen.



  13. Karen on Friday, September 20, 2013 at 10:21 am

    Living with your 91 year old mother who doesn’t realize you are her daughter is a very humbling experience. She has been a believer for all of my life and has always been a true example of God’s love. To hear her prayers we share at meals is priceless. She may forget who I am, and where home is, but she always knows her God. She always knows where her blessing come from. She always knows God.



    • tmiles on Friday, September 20, 2013 at 12:46 pm

      Karen – I cant imagine how hard and heartbreaking that must be. But Ive heard this before, that elderly or Alzheimer patients may forget everyone they know, but they never forget God. What a testament of how the Holy Spirit is so strong and alive in our hearts and minds that even disease or age cant put out that fire.

      Lord, I lift up my sister in Christ Karen today as she carries this emotional burden of dealing with her mom and watching her mind and body deteriorate. I praise you for the amazing woman of God she has been her whole life and for the witness she must have been to everyone who crossed her path over 91 years. We praise and thank You for using her all these years and for the legacy of faith that she is building, even today as she says grace. Amen.



  14. Tammy on Friday, September 20, 2013 at 10:30 am

    God is constantly speaking to me; sometimes I think he needs to “yell” at me; I have difficulty in listening and trusting some days. God is good and has brought me through so much. Thank you for your devotionals; they are always a blessing!



    • tmiles on Friday, September 20, 2013 at 12:47 pm

      Tammy – fortunately God is patient! He had to wait far too many years for me to listen Im sure! But our mercies are renewed every day and it is certainly motivating to see how He brings us through hard times.

      Jesus, thank for allowing Tammy to hear your voice loud and clear. We all need to hear Your voice clearly. Open our spiritual eyes and ears so we always know when You are speaking. Be with Tammy as she walks in faith to trust You in the situations she faces. Amen.



  15. Courtney on Friday, September 20, 2013 at 10:30 am

    Thank you for your message this morning! I, too, grew up in the church. I was made to go while the adults sporadically went. After I went to college, I put church on the back burner. I still believed and love God, but He wasn’t the head. For years I was like chaff… Blowing in the wind. After 13 years, I finally came back home and was baptized again in August. This time I was fully aware of my decision, and commitment. I was and am ready to do life God’s way!



    • tmiles on Friday, September 20, 2013 at 12:49 pm

      Courtney – I love the analogy of being like chaff, blowing the wind. I bet everyone reading your comment can relate, including me! Congratulations on your re-commitment!

      Lord, thank you for drawing Courtney back to You and giving her a desire to serve You and get to know You even better. Give her strength and perseverance as she is embarking on this new level of faith. Amen.



  16. Nicci Ramirez on Friday, September 20, 2013 at 10:56 am

    Thank you sweet Tracie!!!
    Thank you!



    • tmiles on Friday, September 20, 2013 at 12:49 pm

      🙂



  17. NANCY SILVERS on Friday, September 20, 2013 at 10:59 am

    I am a Christian and have been for a few decades but I struggle with trusting God with our finances. Today I am letting go of my fear of financial insecurity. I am going to trust Jehovah Jirah, my provider. God has called me to be an encourager and prayer warrior. I have said YES and I know in my heart that HE will provide. Thank you Tracie for your video and your encouraging words.



    • tmiles on Friday, September 20, 2013 at 12:52 pm

      Nancy – your post gave me chill bumps! What power I read in your words that you are boldly proclaiming that you will trust God with you finances and let go of insecurities! God is our provider, and I have seen Him doing financial miracles in my life and others – so keep on believing and get excited about how God will show up!

      Lord, I seek Your financial blessings on Nancy’s behalf and ask that You provide for their every need in ways that they cannot explain except for Your divine intervention. We thank You in advance for what You are going to do, but in the meantime, help Nancy and her family to have peace in their circumstances and give them the ability and unshakable faith to trust that You are in the control. Amen.



  18. Amber M on Friday, September 20, 2013 at 11:05 am

    this was just great! thank you so much 🙂 yes we can always recommit. sometimes I need to daily. Thank you God for always being there with open arms and thank you for the ladies with the gift of written and spoken word that can speak to my thirsty soul.



    • tmiles on Friday, September 20, 2013 at 12:53 pm

      Thanks Amber! Re commitment can definitely be a daily thing, not just a one time thing. Thanks for that reminder!



  19. Vonnie Kronk on Friday, September 20, 2013 at 11:29 am

    I feel The Lord is speaking to me mainly today to get my tooth pulled! He is with me & I will be better



    • tmiles on Friday, September 20, 2013 at 12:55 pm

      Vonnie – that is never something to look forward, but love that you are seeking God’s Presence even about a dental concern. He tells us to come to Him with everything, and that’s exactly what you are doing!

      Lord, be with Vonnie as she gets her tooth pulled. Remove her anxieties and replace them with Your peace and provision. Give her a quick recovery. Amen.



  20. Ali on Friday, September 20, 2013 at 11:35 am

    Today I am committing to trust the Lord with the hard things, the situations that I don’t like or understand, instead of trying to work it all out on my own.



    • tmiles on Friday, September 20, 2013 at 12:57 pm

      Ali – your words are a great testament of faith. It’s easy to say we trust God when life is going fine, but when hard times strike, that trust doesnt come as easily. Thank you for being honest and for committing to let go and let God, even when your mind wants to try to fix things on your own. His ways are always best.

      Lord, I ask for a special dose of trust to be showered upon Ali today. She is committing to trust You in her circumstances, even if she doesnt understand them. Fill her with peace and the ability to let go, and give her a glimpse of reassurance in a special way. Amen.



  21. Stephanie on Friday, September 20, 2013 at 11:35 am

    Proverbs 31 Ministry has truly been a blessing in my life! I look forward to my daily devotional to help me tune my compass to Him and jump start my day!



    • tmiles on Friday, September 20, 2013 at 12:58 pm

      Thanks Stephanie! Encouraging words are always a blessing!



  22. Jenny S. on Friday, September 20, 2013 at 11:35 am

    Your video came at the right time to encourage me in what I have been realizing over the past couple of weeks…..I need to put God first ALL of the time. It is too easy to get caught up in the tasks of the day and give God what is left over at the end. In reality, putting God first helps to keep everything else in the correct perspective.



    • tmiles on Friday, September 20, 2013 at 1:00 pm

      Jenny – so true! God wants our first fruits, not our leftovers – but we are all guilty of serving up leftovers from time to time when life gets busy!

      Lord, thank you for pricking Jenny’s heart and giving her a desire to make you a focus every day. Help her to stay strong in her faith and to make time for You even when life gets busy. Help her not to get discouraged and to remember that walking in a process and a journey, not something we master overnight. Also help her be aware of how making You a priority each day equips her to better get through each day. Amen.



  23. Lori A. on Friday, September 20, 2013 at 11:45 am

    The new devotional looks awesome. I always look forward to your emails. Our ladies Bible study just finished your Stressed-Less Living Study – thank you so much for letting God lead you while writing this.



    • tmiles on Friday, September 20, 2013 at 1:01 pm

      Hi Lori – so glad you did the Stressed Less study and pray God spoke to all of your hearts! Thanks for your sweet words!



  24. Maria on Friday, September 20, 2013 at 1:31 pm

    Ever since traveling to East Asia this summer to teach English, I’ve heard God speak in so many ways.

    – I felt nudgings on my heart while in EA to really look at the individual faces of the massive amounts of Asian people around me. In looking at each of their faces, I heard God say these are my children too.
    – Upon returning home, there have been so many echos of that reminder and I’ve strived to keep that in the forefront of my mind when dealing with others.
    – He has broken me of actions that were not pleasing to him. He gave me the strength to approach another person and to be totally transparent with them about my actions, feelings and to plead for their forgiveness.
    – In church planning meetings, he has opened my mouth and allowed his words to be spoken NOT mine.
    – He is tenderizing my heart.

    When I don’t feel equipped, he is providing strength. When I feel insecure or doubtful, he is reminding me to trust him. When I feel I want to rush, he is reminding me to wait. When I feel envious or uncontent, he is reminding me that I need to look to him for what he wants to provide.

    Each day I want to hear more and more from him.



    • tmiles on Friday, September 20, 2013 at 8:17 pm

      Maria – beautifully said! Your words will be an inspiration to all who read them. Oh how we can all strive to hear Him more and allow Him to transform us into new creations. Thank you!



  25. Colette on Friday, September 20, 2013 at 1:45 pm

    Thank You Tracie! 🙂



  26. Elaine Segstro on Friday, September 20, 2013 at 1:59 pm

    Thank you for your words of joy and peace reminding us of God’s promises!



  27. Anna on Friday, September 20, 2013 at 2:40 pm

    Thank You Tracie for your words and encouragement. I surrendered my life to the Lord 15 years ago, what a journey, there have been blessings and there have been trials – from which blessings have come. Since February of this year I have had a re-kindled fire for the Lord, don’t get me wrong, I have followed the Lord fro the 15 years, but now that my youngest is almost 18, I have found that my heart needs God more than ever. I am following hard after him. Since February I have used the Proverbs 31 devotions and done the OBS, and at first thought, “I’ve missed so much”, but in truth I haven’t. I realize now that I was being obedient and taking care of the children our Lord entrusted to us. I still followed the Lord, but He has brought me to this time to re-kindle the fire. DOes that make sense. He knew now was the time for me…..I understand what you said about trying to fix our homes, ours is a comfortable, humble place and we give God glory for what we have been able to do with it. BUT we also know that it can’t compare to what God has waiting for us. Again thank you for today’s post, I will be praying for you. Thank you for taking time to bless us with your words. Have a blessed weekend…..Anna



    • tmiles on Friday, September 20, 2013 at 8:19 pm

      Anna – wonderful reminder about how God carries us through seasons of life, and how each season is different. You made a great point that we are to be thankful for what God is doing through us, and what He allows us to do in Him, at every season of life. But so blessed to know that your heart is rekindled for God and that He is now ready to take you to the next level of faith of faith!

      Lord – please walk with Anna as she enters the strange land of having all of her children be grown. Let her see the joy in this season and fill her empty spaces when they threaten to bring her down. Thank you for giving her a new passion for You!



  28. Kim on Friday, September 20, 2013 at 10:44 pm

    In my journey this year the Lord spoke to my heart many times but one that impacted me was a day I was driving home from work. He said
    “Your husband may never come home. You could lose your job, your house and your family as you know it, but you will NEVER lose me!”
    He is and will continue to be my sufficiency no matter what my circumstances may be.
    Praise God my husband did come home and our family is stronger than ever. I still have my job and we still have our house (but tht could change). I will always have Him as He will never leave me or forsake me. Thank you Jesus!



  29. Faith on Saturday, September 21, 2013 at 4:53 am

    Thank you for this devotion. It has brought back memories of when the need for home was great.
    I have come to discover that most times the need for home and all that it has to offer comes so strong when things seem not be be working, when we are made to feel insecure or unloved. It just so happens that women seem to feel that way a lot.
    However, with my personal relationship with the Lord, it becomes bearable in those times. With a realisation that we are more than physical beings, it is easy to ‘connect’ with God in such times, ensuring a calm, loved feeling which is the essence of home.
    I have also found out that though we have not gotten to our eternal home, we can get a feel of what it has to offer by staying in touch with Daddy (God). Everytime I feel ‘homesick’, I remember Daddy said He is with me and I start talking with Him.
    So I find home while waiting for the eternal one.



    • Tracie Miles on Sunday, September 22, 2013 at 11:13 am

      Thank you Faith for painting a beautiful picture of walking with our Daddy. He is always there even when we feel we are walking alone.

      Lord, surround Faith with Your loving arms and help her to see herself through Your eyes instead of her own. If anyone has caused her to feel unloved or insecure, replace their hurtful words or actions with a reassurance of who she is in You – a beloved royal daughter of the most high King. Help us all to remember that too. Amen.



  30. Halona Luna on Saturday, September 21, 2013 at 5:08 am

    God has really been speaking to me about my children and the home. Accepting that things are done and doing what I physically can do. Pretty much homebound for the past year, I struggle asking for help and getting the four children to do what is necessary and pleasing to God.



    • Tracie Miles on Sunday, September 22, 2013 at 11:11 am

      Halona – I so admire your strength and your desire to continue trusting and loving God even when your physical capabilities have diminished. Raising children to do what is pleasing to God is always a challenge, but sometimes especially so when we have limitations that cause us to lose confidence at times. Keep your chin up and maintain that positive attitude that you apparently have, but allowing people to help us in times of need is not only a blessing we receive, but a blessing other people receive by being able to help. I completely understand your thoughts, I would feel the same way, but if God puts people in our path who are willing to help us and have a desire to do so, then He put them there for a reason!

      Lord, thank you for Halonas strength and courage, and for the gift of children you have given her. Help her feel confident in her abilities as a mom and a woman and not get discouraged during this season of being homebound. Give her an extra dose of peace and spiritual clarity about what she can do to continue guiding her childrens to love You. Open her children’s hearts and touch them in such a way that they have a new spiritual understanding and conscience about right from wrong. And give them a desire to help their mother in every way possible. Kids arent always selfless, but we know You can change their hearts. Guide them in their decisions and help them make Kris a proud mom. Amen



  31. Rhonda on Saturday, September 21, 2013 at 9:24 am

    The first thing I notice on your page- encouraging women to live intentional for Christ.
    I do need help in that area. I feel like I am in a transitional season in my life. Thank you for
    Your encouragement and proverbs 31 ministry!!! It’s my goto daily reading!! God bless!!!



  32. Melissa on Saturday, September 21, 2013 at 9:35 am

    Hi Tracie,
    I found your blog through Google. I am having a rare quiet time while my little ones are sleeping. I enjoyed your video and particularly your letter to God. I find that sometimes it feels difficult to hold onto childlike faith in this world. I have to say that I was not raised in a Christian home but blessed enough to have influences around me. So now I am trying to raise my kids with God’s influence. Thank you for the devotional and video, may you have joy and peace today also.
    Melissa



  33. Kris Konick on Saturday, September 21, 2013 at 12:36 pm

    God speaks to my heart in ways that encourage others. But there are those situations, my marriage specifically, where I would speak to me more directly, loudly, and clearly as to his direction and will.



    • Tracie Miles on Sunday, September 22, 2013 at 11:05 am

      Kris, it would be so great if we could hear God clear as a bell, yet I know that if that were the case, we wouldnt need faith or a relationship to hear Him. I have found that when I am truly desperate to hear God’s guidance, I need to spend more time in prayer, quiet time and scripture, or spending time in places that soothe my soul, like the beach.

      Dear Jesus, I come to You today asking for You to give clarity to Kris about her marriage decisions. We know that Your will is to try to make marriage work, for You brought us together. So Lord whatever problems they are experiencing, will You help Kris have a peace about what steps she can take to move towards marriage reconciliation or improvement. Give her the desire to pray for her husband. Lead her to books, resources, scriptures, sermons, or people who can help her grow closer to You and be able to discern Your voice and Your wisdom above all else. Bless her and her husband as they work through challenges and help them see Your intervention in their relationship. Change their hearts towards each other and You and help them make positive steps forwards. Give Kris a peace in You, even if things arent always peaceful at home. Amen.



  34. Kathleen on Saturday, September 21, 2013 at 10:38 pm

    I was not raised in a Christian home but as a young adult the Lord drew me to Himself and saved me. We have had some very difficult times – infertility, marriage struggles, adoption, mom killed by drunk driver, loss of two children in another car accident which almost cost my life as well, rebellious children… The heaviest issue though is that none of my extended family have accepted the Lord as Saviour. My sister was almost killed in December and her recovery has truly been miraculous but none of my family acknowledge God’s hand in it. Also, two of my children are not living for the Lord and my husband is only beginning to return to church (Our 4 year old grandson who lives with us did not want to go any more without Poppa so Poppa is now coming. PTL). I want to be a testimony to my family. I want all of them to live faith-filled lives that honor God. I remain committed to trusting that God is doing a new thing, that it is even now springing forth even if I cannot see it with my physical eyes. God is faithful. He has heard the voice of my supplication.



    • Tracie Miles on Sunday, September 22, 2013 at 11:00 am

      Kathleen – I cannot even fathom the measure of loss and heartache that you have experienced, yet you still love and trust the Lord. Wow. God has to shine so brightly through you to everyone you meet that even the darkest darkness cannot dim it. You obviously have a level of faith that we should all aspire to, one that is truly unshakable in even the worst of circumstances. Thank you for sharing your story and for being an inspiration to anyone who is going through hard adversities, wondering if God’s hand is still on them.

      Dear Lord, if we all had Kathleens faith, love and trust for You, this world would be a better place. I pray that you shower her with the most abundant blessings imaginable and that you continue to carry her through the challenging times ahead. I praise You for how you have carried her burdens for her and given her the strength to persevere while still growing closer to You and longing to speak Your truths to those she loves even in the face of their doubts. Lord I ask that you intervene in her children’s lives and give them a burning desire to know You and turn their lives around. Open the eyes of her family to see You at work and to give You credit for every miracle, big or small. Fill all her empty places with your peace and joy so that her heart is overflowing. Amen.



  35. Carol Barrows on Sunday, September 22, 2013 at 7:45 am

    Thank you for reminding me of how wonderful it is to be a “child” of God. As in your letter to Him, I pray that I continue to have such faith for the rest of my life! Thank you!



  36. Carol Yoder on Sunday, September 22, 2013 at 3:37 pm

    I have been having some issues with anxiety and need daily encouragement that Jesus is always with me since I am a believer. Sometimes I ask myself as have some of my family members, “If I am a believer and know that God takes care of me then, how can I have anxiety doesn’t that mean I don’t trust God?” Well, I have read your book,
    Stress Less Living and realized that I had just worked too hard and tried to do too much. I got away from God being my first priority, even though I went to church every Sunday, I still didn’t get in the Word or pray everyday.
    I am feeling better but still have a way to go and learning to take one day at a time. Thank you for your encouraging book and devotions.



  37. Grace Lane on Sunday, September 22, 2013 at 9:00 pm

    Tracie,
    As a Christian I have struggled with my heart not yearning for my heavenly home. After reading today’s devotion and watching the video the Lord has once again reminded me that he understands all my fears and doubts. Thanks for sharing!
    Grace



  38. Karolina on Monday, September 23, 2013 at 4:14 am

    Thank you, Tracie, for taking the opportunity to draw our minds to Heaven and ponder what it will be like there. I doubt we do it enough times as it is. I really loved the key verse that you chose- it is truly hard to imagine how we all are gonna fit in Heaven. That there is enough place for everyone…wow, but I guess only God can make this kind of space-planning to not leave anyone ‘outside’ 🙂
    Lately I’ve been trying to learn how to hear better, and not miss, when God speaks to me. I am not sure yet if I am making progress, but I would definitely love to be at the perfect-score point of this ability…to always know and understand correctly when He speaks to me, and gladly follow Him.



  39. saskia Haesen on Wednesday, September 25, 2013 at 4:30 pm

    Dear Tracy,

    I want you to know how your message touched my heart and that I am recommitting my life to Christ. I am off medication since a few weeks and felt overwhelmed by all the emotions that run wild (I took anti depressive medication). Ihave the feeling that I am whitout a steering wheel and that I am bouncing from one side to the other whitout having influence on it. There are some wonderful women praying for me. But I feel I have to make this new committment. So thank you so mich for pointing that out.

    Big hug, saskia



    • tmiles on Friday, September 27, 2013 at 11:20 am

      Saskia – that is wonderful news!! Thank you so much for sharing your heart and I am so excited that you have set a personal goal to draw closer to Christ and that you have a team of prayer warriors! I pray that God makes Himself seen and heard in your every day life and that you are able to work through the difficulties you are currently experiencing as you rely on His strength and courage and peace. 🙂



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Tracie Miles is a bestselling author and the Director of COMPEL Training with Proverbs 31 Ministries.  She helps women grow stronger in their faith, pursue the life of purpose God designed them for and live a life of peace, joy and happiness despite their circumstances.

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