“We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.” 2 Corinthians 10:5

There are seasons when God's pruning is obvious. Other times, it's subtle.

Lately, I've been thinking about the hidden places of the heart—our thoughts.We often work hard to make our words kind and our actions loving, but what about the thoughts no one else hears? The quick judgments. The silent criticisms. The assumptions we make about ourselves, our families, or complete strangers.

Those thoughts can feel harmless because they remain hidden. But Scripture reminds us to "take every thought captive to obey Christ" (2 Corinthians 10:5). God isn't interested in changing only what others can see; He lovingly transforms what only He can see.

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Ministry, or even community, has a way of revealing what's beneath the surface. As God invites us to love people more deeply, He also exposes the places where our hearts still need His refining. As He reveals a misalignment between our thoughts and our words, He is inviting us into His sanctification work—to become more like Jesus.

The Lord continues to prune even healed hearts. There is always room to grow in Him.

Today, pay attention to your thoughts.

Who or what are they criticizing?
Are they speaking truth or assumption?
Do they reflect the heart of Christ?

When you notice a thought that doesn't align with Him, confess it. Surrender it. Replace it with God's truth. Then practice thinking in agreement with Him.

Transformation doesn't begin with what we say. It begins with what we allow to remain in our hearts.

Where might God be pruning your heart right now?

Going deeper:

When you notice a thought that doesn't align with the heart of Christ, don't stop at correcting it. Ask where it came from.

What is the root of that judgment? That criticism? That assumption?

What fear, wound, pride, insecurity, or false belief might be shaping your instinctive response?

Invite God to search your heart. Ask Him to reveal the root beneath the reaction. His goal isn't simply to change your thoughts; it's to transform your heart. As He heals the root, your thoughts, words, and actions begin to align more fully with His.

This is the beautiful work of sanctification—God lovingly pruning us so we reflect Jesus more and more.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for caring not only about my words and actions, but also about the thoughts of my heart. Shine Your light into the places I so easily overlook. When my thoughts drift toward judgment, criticism, fear, or assumptions that do not reflect the heart of Christ, make me aware of them.

Search me and reveal the roots beneath my instinctive responses. Expose any wounds, pride, insecurity, or false beliefs that keep me from seeing others, and myself, the way You do.

Prune what does not belong, and renew my mind with Your truth. Align my thoughts, my words, and my actions so they reflect the character of Jesus. May every thought I entertain lead me to love You more deeply and love others more faithfully.

Continue Your good work in me, knowing that even a healed heart has room to grow. Thank You for Your gentle conviction, Your patient refining, and Your transforming grace.

In Jesus' name, amen.

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Peter believed Jesus was the Messiah, yet even at the height of his faith, he doubted. Isn't that often true of us? Faith and doubt can exist in the same heart. But even in the midst of his fear, Peter knew exactly who to call on.

Like Peter stepping out of the boat, this is the faith I long for—the courage to trust Jesus enough to leave the safety of the boat whenever He says, “Come.” 

“Lord, if it's you,” Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.”

“Come,” he said.

Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out,

 “Lord, save me!”
— Matthew 14:28–30

So I must go where He leads, no matter how frightening it may be, because if I can't believe in the miracle of walking on water, I'll scramble for anything else to save me—and it will fail. The current is too strong. He is the only Way.

May we be women who step out in faith, keep our eyes on Jesus, and remember that when we begin to sink, He is the One reaching out His hand.

When You Say Come

When you say, “Come,”

I feel free

To step out of the boat

Drawn to your love

beckoning me.

When you say, ”Come,”

My heart feels light;

Don't even notice

The turbulent waters

Crashing into the night.

When you say “Come,” I know

I can do anything

Walk on water,

Through a parted sea or

fly free.

When you say, “Come,”

I believe.

 —Theresa M. Miller

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A Few Things I Am Grateful To Share

I'm humbled and grateful to share that my Bible teaching was selected as one of five winners of the First 5 Writing Challenge and will be featured in February 2027.

The words from the First 5 team were such an encouragement: “This is no small accomplishment. Your submission stood out for its faithfulness to Scripture, clarity of thought, and ability to help readers hear Jesus more clearly through His own words.”

What a gift to be reminded that the greatest calling of any writer is not simply to share words, but to faithfully point others to Christ.

I'm thankful for this opportunity to serve alongside First 5 and for the privilege of encouraging women to engage more deeply with Scripture.

All glory to God, who invites us to offer what we have and trust Him with the outcome. ❤️

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This summer, I had the joy of contributing to the newest issue of Faithful Reflections eMagazine, releasing July 24th.

Inside, you'll find Scripture-rooted reflections, honest stories from women walking similar journeys, and gentle encouragement to help you rest in the freedom Jesus offers. You will also find my article, Four Ways to Remain in the Freedom of Our Healing, where I share how healing--whether physically, mentally, or emotionally-- is not the finish line; it is often the beginning of a new way of living. If your heart is weary or you're longing for a quiet space to grow deeper in your walk with God, this issue was written with you in mind.

You can get exclusive direct access delivered straight to you by clicking the button below. 

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Resources to Encourage You

I'm excited for Dr. Alison Cook's newest book coming out on August 18th. Alison is an incredible asset to the professional and publishing world. Not to mention, she is from my hometown, a good friend of my sister, and an acquaintance of mine. I highly value her work. I love that she captures our beautiful Big Horn Mountains on the cover of her book. 

The Secure Soul is a gentle guide to finding emotional and spiritual security by understanding our identity in Christ, healing relational wounds, and learning to live from a place of God's love rather than fear. Pre-order today and claim your bonuses. 

Pre-order

Wanting daily encouragement for the duration of your summer? Consider a 40-day devotional. Available everywhere online and in Sheridan, Wyoming bookstores, Unexpected Blessings: 40 Days of Trusting God in the Details invites you to discover how God is at work, even when His presence feels unseen. Written by Theresa in collaboration with four other gifted writers, each devotion offers a unique voice of faith, hope, and the unexpected ways God shows up in our lives.

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A  Prayer for You

Lord, You are our source of true peace and rest. Thank You for inviting us to come to You, no matter the circumstances we find ourselves in. Help us trust You for the miraculous work that is possible only through Your power. Remind us that You are near and always good.

 In Jesus' Name, Amen.

May the Lord bless you and keep you,

“Trust in him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge.” —Psalm 62:8

What if the very thing promising you freedom is actually keeping you in bondage?

We all seek refuge somewhere. When life feels uncertain, painful, or uncomfortable, we instinctively look for something to steady us. Sometimes we run to God. Other times we run to self-protection.

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Perhaps you've walked into a room and immediately felt out of place. Maybe a conversation shifted, someone overlooked you, or relationship felt strained. Sometimes our discomfort lingers long enough that we begin making agreements with it.

"If something doesn't change, I'm never coming back."

"I'll never put myself in that position again."

"I don't need these people anyway."

What began as a moment of discomfort quietly became a refuge of self-protection. And while those vows may feel like freedom, they often become the prisons that keep us bound.

I've been there. I've been the one more determined to protect myself than to trust God with my discomfort.

Seeking refuge in something other than God usually means we’re looking for immediate relief. Seeking refuge in God means entrusting ourselves to the One who remains steadfast even when the discomfort doesn't immediately disappear.

When our refuge is God, we find safety, peace, and freedom. 

In that same uncomfortable circumstance we may silently pray, "Lord, help me rest in Your presence right now."

We may remember that our identity is secure in Christ. We may choose to be present rather than retreating inward, trust God's nearness even when we feel awkward or unseen, or focus on loving and serving others instead of self-protection. We may also cling to a truth from Scripture, such as, "My soul clings to You; Your right hand upholds me" (Psalm 63:8).

This shift often requires healing and renewed thinking. Perhaps that is where we must begin: first recognizing the lie that is binding us and then, if needed, seeking help to untangle it.

Friend, the goal isn't to never feel uncomfortable. But the question is: when discomfort comes, where do we run first? What is our functional refuge?

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These plummet lines from Charles Spurgeon’s sermon, Refuges of Lies, and What Will Become of Them, challenge us to examine the foundations upon which we build our lives. Let us honestly consider them and see where we fit in:

“Is Jesus Christ all in all to you? Do you rest on Him and on Him alone? If so, you are surely saved, but if not, you have made lies your refuge.”

Ask yourself, “Is Jesus enough to sustain me in this moment?”

“‘He that believes’ is the man whose soul is fixed on the sure foundation and therefore abides in peace.”

Ask yourself, “If Jesus is my source of peace, why am I not at peace here?”

“Have you faith in Jesus Christ? Do you believe the infallible Word of God and do you confide in His infallible Son? If you do this, heaven and earth shall pass away, but never shall your foundation be moved.”

Ask yourself, “Have I taken this circumstance to Jesus—prior to this moment—or have I made some other vow, excluding Him?”

“If our hope is sound, it is a holy, sanctifying hope which purges us from sin and breeds in us all that is true and good.”

Ask yourself, “Am I relying on Christ’s sanctifying work in me through this situation? What is He teaching me here? How am I meant to grow?”

“Build upon your Lord’s life, death, and resurrection—build upon God’s promises—build by the work of the Holy Spirit with faith, and you shall have the reward of eternal life.”

Ask yourself, “Have I accepted that life will not always feel easy and people will let me down. Yet the foundation of my life is the work of Christ. I do not live for earthly rewards, but ultimately, eternal rewards that come through the fruit of the Holy Spirit alone. 

What lies have become a refuge in your life? What foundation are you building upon today?

The good news is that Jesus does not merely expose our false refuges, He invites us into a better one. We do not have to remain bound by fear, self-protection, or the vows we made in our pain. Christ is a refuge that never fails. He offers the peace, security, and freedom our souls long for.

“Therefore thus says the Lord God, “Behold, I am the one who has laid as a foundation in Zion, a stone, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone, of a sure foundation: ‘Whoever believes will not be in haste.’ And I will make justice the line, and righteousness the plumb line; and hail will sweep away the refuge of lies, and waters will overwhelm the shelter.” —Isaiah 28:16-17

May the Lord Bless you,

What if this is the end?
What if everything I have poured my life into begins to unravel?
What if those I love harm themselves—or break my heart?

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Like waves, the thoughts rose faster than I could steady them. Yet the crashing was not around me—it was within me. And it was suffocating me.

Just days earlier, I had stood in the kitchen with my sister passionately agreeing with her about the victory Jesus had already won. Moving from defeat to victory is a concept I've heard my entire life. We declare it confidently with words, Scripture, and songs that sometimes rise higher than what we actually believe.

But only days later, there I was—not standing in declaration but crouched in defeat, like gripping fear. An old wound had crept in, spinning lies and truth into one tangled mess. 

What I proclaimed in the light of conversation suddenly felt harder to hold in the shadow of anxiety. Frustrated by the disconnect between what I said I believed and what I actually felt, I wrestled honestly with God.

And in my vulnerability, He gently led me to Psalm 63.

But the king shall rejoice in God; all who swear by him shall exult, for the mouths of liars will be stopped.

—Psalm 63:11, ESV

The setting is the wilderness—a strange place for comfort at first glance.

Here David is fleeing from King Saul and his army’s unjust pursuit. This isn’t just betrayal, it’s personal. David had been fiercely loyal to Saul. He served him faithfully, soothed him with music, fought for his kingdom, and later, spared him even when he had the chance to defend himself.

Yet loyalty is met with hostility and integrity is rewarded with exile.

And in this agonizing space, David does something that changes everything — he cries out to God, clings to Him as His source of strength, and confidently proclaims victory over his enemies.

Have you ever paused long enough to wonder what produces that kind of confidence in a man still in hiding, still being pursued, and still waiting for what God has promised?

Yet the more you sit with David’s life—and with this psalm—the more you see that his confidence is not rooted in denial of reality or in himself, but in God.

Throughout this chapter and much of the Psalms, we begin to notice a pattern: David’s confidence is shaped long before the outcome ever arrives. It is formed in hidden places; in surrender and honesty.

And when he speaks, it’s not empty words or arrogance—it’s alignment.

It’s prophetic, not in what he wishes will happen, but through his complete trust in what God said was true.

It’s a “now and not yet” statement that refuses to let present chaos redefine eternal authority.

And that begins to challenge something in me.

--

🌿If you’ve ever wrestled with the gap between what you believe and what you feel, this is for you.

Continue reading the full devotional, How the Mouths of Liars Are Silenced, to discover the testimony behind The Posture of Victory—and the place where God began birthing this message in my own life.

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When it first came out, the kids were little and loved the idea of a movie night with Mom. We laughed through it, and somehow it became our thing. Every year since, we’ve watched it — even now, as the kids have grown into teenagers and traditions don’t hold the same excitement they once did.

And it never fails—every year, I cry.

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Because the story captures something so many mothers quietly carry: the pressure to do everything well, hold everything together, and somehow never fall short. A mom trying her best, yet constantly wondering if she’s enough.

And then comes the reminder that undoes me every time:

She doesn’t have to earn her worth through perfect parenting, a spotless home, or having it all together. She is enough because God says she is.

Beneath the comedy and chaos is a reminder so many moms desperately need: the beautiful moments are often hidden inside the mess.

So embrace the moments, because they are fleeting. Enjoy where you are, because you won’t get this time back. Breathe deeply and soak it in, because these are the years you will carry closest to your heart.

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Speaking of holding it all together, I want to share something special from a dear friend, . When you pre-order her book, I Don’t Have to Have It All Together, you’ll receive incredible bonus resources—including a downloadable devotional, Held Together: 21 Reminders You Don’t Have to Carry It All.

She’s also hosting a virtual summit on May 11, featuring an all-day lineup of authors and speakers—one interview each hour—focused on overwhelm and practical ways to navigate it in everyday life.

You won’t want to miss it. You’ll find the link to pre-order the book and register for the summit below.

pre-order the book

Sign up for the Summit:

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Download the free devotional:

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Another special friend, , just released her poetry debut, The Prodigal Daughter: Poems of Light for the Lost Ones. I was honored to endorse this book. From the cover to the final page, it is beautifully written and deeply moving. You can grab your copy here.

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Finally, I want to close by sharing this Mother’s Day prayer I wrote years ago, during a season when I was in the thick of motherhood and feeling much like the mom in Mom’s Night Out—stretched thin and clinging to Jesus. If you’re in a similar place, I hope it meets you there. Feel free to download it, save it, or share it with someone who might need it today.

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Be blessed,

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The betrayal. The beating. The cross.

But what if that wasn’t the deepest source of His agony?

What if it was our sin—the very thing that would separate Him from the unbroken fellowship He had always known with God the Father?

His suffering in the garden—the plea for the cup to pass if there was any other way—was not centered on physical torment, but on relationship.

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A sob catches in my throat when I consider the source of His anguish, revealed in the posture of His prayer and His final words on the cross. My God, My God, why have you forsaken me (Matthew 27:46)?

In the stillness of the night, in the garden, Jesus bends low to the cold ground.

Scripture tells us He was in such anguish that His sweat became like great drops of blood falling to the ground (Luke 22:44).

Some have described this condition as hematidrosis—a rare and severe response to extreme distress, where the body itself begins to bleed through the pores.

And in that place of overwhelming sorrow, He did not withdraw—He pressed in. Being in agony, He prayed more earnestly (Luke 22:44).

The deeper the anguish, the deeper the surrender.

Not my will, but yours be done (Luke 22:42).

Until it was time.

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Jesus bore the full weight of the cross—the unimaginable physical torment and the cost of separation—so we could be reconciled and restored to right relationship with the Father.

And I can’t help but wonder—

When you consider Jesus in Gethsemane, how does His agony change the way you face your own suffering? Do you withdraw, or do you press in? Do you trust God can use even your suffering to draw you closer to Him and accomplish His greater purpose?

Reflect on this Holy Saturday as you consider what Jesus endured for you.

In Christ,

This is your reminder not to rush into Easter too quickly. Yes, the work is done, our hearts should celebrate! But there's something powerful about walking in the footsteps of Jesus, leading to the cross. It helps us appreciate His sacrifice a little more deeply, understand His peace a little better, and enter Easter with hearts truly full. 

What if we let this next week be an invitation to pause, to sit with Him, trace His steps, and to receive His peace.

I created a simple Holy Week devotional, free for you, to help guide you through each day with Scripture, reflection, and Holy Land photos to accompany both, and a journal prompt —not to give you more to do, but to create space to focus on what matters most.

Have a beautiful week and blessed Easter!

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The Sea of Galilee, the Jordan River, Bethlehem, Nazareth, Capernaum…

sacred places marked by His presence long before the cross.

It invites us to slow down and savor. To reflect with reverence.

Because before the cross, there was a journey.

Before the resurrection, there was relationship.

Before Jerusalem, there was a life fully surrendered.

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It’s easy to rush straight to Easter and celebrate the resurrection without sitting in the days that lead to it.

But what if we slowed down enough to follow Jesus through Holy Week—the week leading to His crucifixion and resurrection?

Because this is where we begin to understand the kind of peace He came to bring.

Not a peace the world offers but a deeper, lasting peace found in surrender, sacrifice, and love.

There is something sacred about not skipping ahead.

About tracing His path, day by day.

If you’re longing to experience that kind of peace this Holy Week, I created a devotional to gently guide you through each day with Scripture, reflection, and prayer.

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When you sign up, you have the choice to download immediately or wait. You will receive an additional reminder to download your devotional a couple of days before Holy Week.

Blessings!

This journey started with a simple step of obedience — a desire to help women live from the victory Christ has already won. Watching God take that “yes” and do more than I could imagine has been humbling and beautiful.

My prayer is that this study continues to equip women to stand firm in Christ’s victory. ✨

Explore Study Here

I’m thrilled to be developing a Leader’s Guide for The Posture of Victory study that will equip women to facilitate small groups with confidence, encouragement, and purpose.

It will be available for small groups after Easter! ✨

Holy Week

Holy Week invites us to pause, reflect, and walk with Christ toward the cross and resurrection.

After returning from Israel in 2022, I felt deeply moved by the places where Jesus lived, prayed, and walked. Out of that experience, I created a Holy Week through the Holy Land reflection guide that brings the Holy Land to you.

Through scripture, journaling prompts, and daily reflections, this devotion draws us into Christ’s heart for true peace in our own lives.

Whether you’ve been journeying with Unexpected Blessings or exploring the Posture of Victory, this guide is a meaningful way to enter the sacred week ahead. Holy Week invites us to pause, reflect, and walk with Christ toward the cross and resurrection.

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Are You Joining us on the Unexpected Blessings Lenten journey?

If you’re walking through Unexpected Blessings: 40 Days of Trusting God in the Details this Lent, I’d love to hear which reflections or insights have really stood out to you! Comment below or reply to this email. 🤍

Find sneak peaks into the devotional in my Substack notes.

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Have a blessed week! 🤍

It’s been almost a week since we released our second book, Unexpected Blessings: 40 Days of Trusting God in the Details. Below is a summary of one of my devotions from our newest book. Scroll to the end to find the link for all forty full devotions. 🌷

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The Unexpected Blessing of Feeling Overlooked

“Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.”—PSALM 51:10 ESV

In my early thirties, as a young mom, I sensed God calling me to nurture my gift of writing patiently, so I wrote in the early mornings with little visible fruit, year after year. 

Then one day, three of my friends announced they were speaking at a women’s retreat. I felt a knot form in my stomach. They had young children, too. “Why them, God? Why not me?” I felt overlooked.

Have you ever watched someone else step into an opportunity you’ve been longing for—the promotion, the recognition, the open door—and wondered why God chose them instead of you? 

Feelings are what they are—you can’t reason them away. Yet Psalm 51:10 reminds us that God can do the work of realigning our hearts when we seek Him: “Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.” 

When I took my feelings straight to God, He gently impressed upon my heart that He had something special for me—just not yet. He was creating a beautiful symphony and my job was to practice my part faithfully while cheering on my friends. 

God changed my heart through that prayer.

It was there, in that surrendered posture, that I realized something important. Even in our longing, God reshapes the hearts of those who sincerely seek Him. He cares for the dreams He has placed within us and calls us to cultivate them, trusting His perfect timing.

Is there a feeling of lack keeping you from stewarding what God has placed in your hands? Take this time to look within, submit what feels lacking, and ask God to renew a right spirit in you. Then my friend, claim your seat, take up your instrument and begin tuning it for His glory. 🌿

Purchase Unexpected Blessings: 40 Days of Trusting God in the Details.

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Let’s notice God at work together! Do you have a story about how God showed up in your circumstance?

I would live to hear from you. 🌷

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Warmly,

Theresa

Unexpected Blessings: 40 Days of Trusting God in the Details is officially live.

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This devotional was born out of seasons of learning to notice God more intentionally in the quiet, ordinary, and difficult places where faith is often formed. Over time, I have seen how trust doesn't grow through grand moments, but through small, faithful ones: trusting that God is present even when life feels unresolved. 

Written alongside four gifted writers, this devotional invites you into real stories of how God meets us in unexpected ways. Through Scripture, reflection, and journaling prompts, my prayer is that these pages help you recognize God's faithfulness woven throughout your own story as well.  

This devotional feels especially fitting for the season ahead. Lent invites us to slow, reflect, and trust God more deeply--and this 40-day journey is meant to gently walk with you through that posture. 

If you've been practicing stillness, prayer, or noticing God's presence lately, this book is an invitation to carry that awareness into everyday life--to trust Him in the details you might otherwise overlook. 

You can find Unexpected Blessings: 40 Days of Trusting God in the Details available now.

Thank you for being here. It's a gift I don't take lightly.

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Lent is one week away. 

If you're longing to prepare your heart, I'd love to invite you into The Posture of Victory: A Six-Day Journey to True Peace This Side of Heaven.

These simple five-minute reflections and journal prompts are designed to meet you right where you are, reminding you that true peace isn't something we wait for someday, but something we can receive right now, on this side of heaven. 

If you begin this tomorrow morning, you'll complete the journey on the Tuesday before Lent begins--creating space to enter the season with intention, trust, and a settled heart.

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A Powerful Verse to Sit With 

Deep calls to deep in the roar of your waterfalls; all your waves and breakers have swept over me.

By day the Lord directs his love, at night his song is with me – a prayer to the God of my life.

—Psalm 42:7-8

Warmly,

Theresa

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And I’d love to take this one step further and invite you into something new. 🤍

Our collaborative devotional—written by four incredible writers and me—releases Wednesday, February 11, one week before Lent begins. This is our second devotional in the Unexpected Blessings series: Unexpected Blessings: 40 Days of Trusting God in the Details.

Within these pages, we share real stories of how God has shown up in unexpected ways—cultivating deeper trust and steadier faith. Through reflection questions and journal prompts, you’ll be invited to recognize His faithfulness in your own story, too.

I’m so excited for this devotional and believe it’s a beautiful companion for the Lenten season ahead.

In the meantime, if you haven’t received my Guided Prayer for Noticing God’s Presence, it’s a gentle way to begin your day and prepare your heart to see God in the details.

Grab it here

This kind of stillness does not replace time in the Word. It prepares us for it.

A few moments of silence or journaling invite us to slow down and become more attentive to God’s presence.

Stillness and aligning our hearts and minds with truth belong together.

Begin here

Warmly,

Theresa

It wasn't a grand or expensive getaway. Six friends and I stayed at an Airbnb just eight minutes from my home. I could see the cluster of trees that mark my neighborhood from the hill.

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On the first morning, we practiced 30 minutes of silence, guided by a slow prayer. When we reconvened, we spent the next two hours in unhurried conversation. The time of silence stirred beautiful things—clarity, tenderness, and deeper awareness of God's presence among us.

 I'm continually reminded that retreat and reset don't need to be grand or costly. We can begin small and build slowly, as life and time allow.

If you're longing for rest, consider starting small. Sometimes the most meaningful retreats are closer than we think.

As a matter if fact, you can have your own quiet retreat. 

If you'd like to experience this kind of stillness for yourself, I'd love to invite you to try the guided prayer we used to slow, breathe, and rest in God's presence.

Grab Yours Here

Prepare Your Heart for Lent

If you are craving peace, The Posture of Victory: A 6-Day Journey to True Peace is a gentle way to prepare your heart for Lent, which begins February 18th. 

Lent is a time to:

 Look inward—honestly and humbly. It is not to dwell there, but to notice what needs cleaning, healing, surrender, or our attention in some way.

Turn toward God—through repentance, prayer, and presence. It's about realignment, not striving. 

Create space—by fasting, simplifying, or letting go—so our lives have room for God to breathe into us. 

Prepare---our hearts for resurrection. 

Let The Posture of Victory: A Six-Day Journey to True Peace This Side of Heaven prepare your heart for this Lenten season. 

Start Your Six-Day Journey

Looking Ahead

Book Two in our devotional series—myself and four co-authors—is here and releasing to the world February 11th: Unexpected Blessings: 40 Days of Trusting God in the Details.

 Friend, view this devotional as a gentle companion to The Posture of Victory: Finding True Peace Amidst Our Everyday Battles six-week Bible study—both especially fitting for the Lenten season.

* 𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙋𝙤𝙨𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙑𝙞𝙘𝙩𝙤𝙧𝙮 is about formation—How we stand, pray, surrender, and live when life is hard.

* 𝙐𝙣𝙚𝙭𝙥𝙚𝙘𝙩𝙚𝙙 𝘽𝙡𝙚𝙨𝙨𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙨 is about fulfillment—How we often see God show up when we've learned to stand faithfully.

When we adopt God-honoring postures in difficult seasons, we begin to notice the unexpected ways He meets us.

If you're unsure where to begin, 𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙋𝙤𝙨𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙑𝙞𝙘𝙩𝙤𝙧𝙮: 𝘼 𝙎𝙞𝙭-𝘿𝙖𝙮 𝙅𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙣𝙚𝙮 𝙩𝙤 𝙏𝙧𝙪𝙚 𝙋𝙚𝙖𝙘𝙚 𝙏𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙎𝙞𝙙𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙃𝙚𝙖𝙫𝙚𝙣 is a beautiful starting place.

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A Simple Prayer for You

Lord, 

Guide my heart, 

guide my thoughts, 

and guide my actions. 

In Jesus' name, amen.

With Grace,

Theresa

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No Bible or journal yet.

Just silence.

Just me and Jesus.

As I reflect on the day before, I begin to notice the ways Jesus was present, and I thank Him.

I notice rubbing my teen’s back before bed and having a quiet moment of conversation.

I notice accountability with another and the hugs before saying goodnight.

I notice navigating the unknown as a privilege when we rely on the Holy Spirit for guidance.

I notice prayer requests that still linger, and I acknowledge that I am still standing on His promises.

He asks what those promises are—just to remind me.

𝘐 𝘢𝘮 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘮𝘪𝘴𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘠𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘤𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘯𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘪𝘯𝘥𝘪𝘷𝘪𝘥𝘶𝘢𝘭 𝘪𝘯 𝘮𝘺 𝘧𝘢𝘮𝘪𝘭𝘺. 𝘛𝘩𝘦𝘺 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘠𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘴.

𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘯𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘰𝘳 𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘴𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘮.

𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘢𝘭𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘴 𝘱𝘶𝘳𝘴𝘶𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘮.

𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘶𝘱𝘩𝘰𝘭𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘮—𝘶𝘯𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘥𝘪𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘺.

𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘨𝘳𝘢𝘤𝘦.

I consider the way He loves and draws in those who do not yet know Him.

I’ve seen how He places just the right people in their lives.

That is how He loves us.

If He pursues those who are not yet His, how much more will He pursue our children, who are, wherever they are on their journey.

I see Him in the details, even when it’s hard to see the bigger picture.

I see Him, and it brings me peace.

I thank Him for His presence, and for showing me how much my presence matters to those around me—because He is near and within.

They feel that.

Sitting here praying as a child walks up the stairs to head out while it’s still dark—morning after morning—is a gift.

𝘋𝘰 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵? He wants me to know.

I pray for strength and wisdom to show up for my people the way they need, trusting that He is present in the details.

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If you’d like to sit with the Lord in this way, I’ve created a short guided prayer to help you get started. If that would be helpful, you can find the link here.

With Grace,

Theresa

I write for those who love God but are weary of striving—those who long for peace that doesn’t depend on circumstances, and faith that feels steady even in wilderness seasons.

I created this Substack as a place to explore what it looks like to live from the posture of victory—not striving for God’s approval, not rushing toward answers, but resting in what Christ has already accomplished.

Here you’ll find:

• - Faith reflections for everyday life

• - Devotional writings and Scripture meditations

• - Encouragement for seasons of waiting, healing, and growth

Whether you’re in a dry season or an abundant one, my hope is these words point you back to truth, freedom, and quiet confidence in God.

I’d love to connect with you and build a thoughtful community here. If this resonates, you’re welcome to subscribe and stay.

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Warmly,

Theresa

 You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.

Psalm 16:11 ESV

Hi friend,

How is 2026 going so far?

Do you feel encouraged… or a bit defeated already?

I'm curious—how do you approach a new year? Do you choose a guiding word, set intentions, make resolutions, or set goals?

For me, two things guide me most: asking how I want to feel by the end of the year, and a single word to anchor me along the way. These are intimately connected, shaping how I show up in life and the intentions I set.

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So…what's the point of a word?

A word of the year is one word to guide your mindset, focus, and spiritual attention. Simple, personal, grace-filled—a reminder of what God may be inviting you to lean into this year.

My word for 2026 is Presence:

• Present with God

• Present with others

• Present with myself

How I want to feel is deeply tied to this: connected to God, to others, and to myself.

From this space, my goals emerge as I ask myself:How do I want to show up in these areas so that, over time, I feel more connected?

Unlike resolutions, a guiding word is filled with grace. It's not about arriving at perfection—it's a gentle compass for the journey, a reminder to step back on track whenever we stray.

I've let my word percolate since December, before I even realized it might become my guiding word. As I sit with it, the more I see that it's not just my idea—it's a lens God is inviting me to look through this year.

Anchored in God's Word

Finally, pairing your word with a Scripture verse can be a meaningful companion. For me, Psalm 16:11 came to mind: 'You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.' That's where it all begins!

Here's a small way to make moving forward practical for you:

• Take five minutes this week to reflect: How do I want to feel at the end of 2026?

• What word might God be inviting you to focus on this year—one that could guide your actions and shape your feelings?

• Write it down.

• Ask God to bring a verse to mind that anchors your word and reflects His invitation for you this year.

Don't rush it. Let the word come through prayer, quiet, reading, or a verse that continues to surface in your heart. Remember, it's never too late to pray about a word or set intentions for your year.

Prepare Your Heart For Lent

Over the past several years, God has been teaching me what it means to live from victory— not assuming it, striving for it, or proving it, but receiving it. It has transformed the way I walk through wilderness seasons.

That journey became The Posture of Victory Bible Study. And now, I've created a short devotional to share with you.

The Posture of Victory: A Six-Day Journey to True Peace This Side of Heaven

If you are longing for peace in this season, then this six-day journey is for you.

Begin the Six-Day Journey here

Coming Soon

Unexpected Blessings devotional, Unexpected Blessings: 40 Days to Trusting God in the Details, written by five authors who desire to help others discover God’s blessings in their own lives.

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A Prayer to Walk Lightly

Lord, a gazelle has never known a weighted step. 

When danger comes, it leaps up to ten feet--

fleeing what threatens its life.

Sometimes the weight of this world feels too heavy to bear. 

We carry it's burdens like iron chains on our shoulders--

tightening our chests, slowing our steps, stealing our breath. 

But You are the One who breaks chains. 

Thank you for bearing the weight so I don't have to.

In you I am free--

free to walk lightly, 

free to love

free to show mercy, 

free to point others toward the freedom found in You 

Help me reflect Your Spirit in the way I speak, 

the way I listen,

and the way I take my next step--

like the graceful light-footed strength of a gazelle.

In Jesus' name, amen.

Warmly,

Theresa 🤍

John 10:10 ESV

I sit here days after Christmas with a heart full of gratitude and a quiet sense of hope. This comes with a new day, a still morning, and a moment to reflect.

To be honest, I have not always felt a contentment that allows gratitude to flow so easily. Have you ever noticed some Christmases leave us with a sense of letdown? Perhaps it's because the rush and commercialism of Christmas carried us to the last minute, and then suddenly, the excitement was over. Anticipation turned to anxiety, and our joy was tied to material things. And come on, the enemy would love nothing more than to steal our joy.

When the noise settles, we are left with an important question: We feel productive checking off lists, but how do we rest in contentment when we finally slow down? 

I have found that carving out moments to pause—to notice and reflect, to be present with God and others, and to pray through the highs and lows — makes all the difference. Our posture, whether striving or surrendered, shapes how we receive the true gift God has given us and the peace that comes in His presence.

My prayer today is that you find rest in the constant gift of your Savior. May you discover hope through reflection and joy through continued anticipation of the greatest gift Christmas offers—Emmanuel, God with us. He offers us life abundantly—not just on Christmas day, but every day. 

Where might God be inviting you to pause, rest, and notice His presence today? 

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A Prayer for You

Lord, You offer abundance with each new day. Thank You for the gift of Emmanuel—God with us. I pray for the one who feels the letdown of Christmas. She prepared, worked, and wrapped gifts up to the last minute. She wondered if it was enough.  And just like that, it was over. Wrappings were torn open, all the hours undone. And today, she wonders if this is all there is. Lord, show her the true meaning of Christmas today. Love came down. Light entered our darkness so that she may have life to the full. It's not over. Christmas continues because You are here and remain her hope. 

In Jesus' name, amen.

Take a Moment to Reflect

As we come to the end of 2025, take a moment to reflect. How does this past year leave you feeling? And how do you want to feel by the end of 2026?

A few years ago, my husband began creating his vision board by asking a simple but powerful question: How do you want to feel by the end of the year? From there, he translated those feelings into clear, S.M.A.R.T. goals that guided his choices and focus.

That question has stayed with me—especially as a writer. Before we chase word counts, publication goals, or platforms, it's worth pausing to ask: How do I want this writing life to shape me?

So I'll ask you, friend—how do you want to feel by the end of 2026? Grounded? Brave? Faithful? Blown away? Let that answer guide what you say yes to, what you lay down, and how you steward the tasks entrusted to you in the year ahead.

Looking Ahead

One of my hopes for 2026 is to connect with you more intentionally through this space. Beginning in January, I'll be sharing a bimonthly newsletter designed to encourage your heart — each issue offering a short devotion, a prayer, and a few meaningful resources to support you in your walk with God.  

I'm grateful to walk this journey with you.

As you look toward the new year, how do you hope to begin?

Have a blessed New Year!

Theresa

If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love. I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. 

John 15:10-11 (NIV)

It’s mid-December and the pressure is rising. Gifts must be ordered or sent this week to arrive on time for Christmas. Did we buy the right gifts? Was it enough? We feel a twinge of urgency suffocating our joy. Rather than experiencing the spirit of the season, we feel stress. 

But Advent reminds us that joy does not come with all our welltimed preparations. It arrives as we remain in Christ’s love.

To remain in Christ’s love is to live aware of His presence and allow it to shape how we love others. Our obedience flows from this love—not through striving or perfection, but by abiding in Him. 

Joy is not something we check off our list. It is Someone we draw near to and receive like the warmth a candle brings to a darkened room. Instead of racing to check items off our list, we can slow our hearts by abiding in Christ. But it doesn’t end there. We share it when we linger a little longer with those around us, pouring out from the overflow of joy’s abundance. 

Even amid unfinished tasks, unwanted suffering and unmet expectations, allow God’s presence to calm your heart and guide your steps this week. Through Him, you can love others well by drawing near during times of celebration or need. This completes your joy, not because you carry it all, but because you don’t carry it alone.

The third candle we lit this week on the evergreen wreath symbolizes joy, reminding us that Christ’s coming is near. As you light the pink candle, consider the Babe who was born to die and rise again, defeating death and raising us to new life in Him. He is our joy.

Are you struggling to find joy this season? As you move through this week, choose to slow down, draw near to Christ, and allow His light to illuminate your heart; then share the joy that stirs within with someone else.

Prayer

Father, thank You for the abundant life of Your Son, Jesus. Help me to draw near and remain in His love so I may love others well this season. Through my loving service and obedience, I ask that my joy may be complete in You today and throughout this season. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Reflection

Where might Christ be inviting you to slow down, draw near, and receive His joy this season?

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Hey friend! I’m excited to spend more time on Substack in the coming year, beginning with this Advent season. Follow my weekly devotions here on Substack throughout Advent, or my daily prayers and reflections on Instagram and Facebook: Follow me on IG Follow me on FB

Also receive “An Advent Prayer for the Unsettled Heart” when you subscribe to my bi-weekly newsletter. Grab your free gift here!

Finally, subscribe to my Substack! I cannot wait to share new material beginning in January, related to my Bible study, “The Posture of Victory: Finding True Peace Amidst Our Everyday Battles”. Explore here!

I look forward to connecting with you!

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end, on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time forth and forevermore. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will do this.

Isaiah 9:6-7 ESV

It's a place he enters that is another source of stress, he tells me as we're washing up getting ready for bed. The place that is supposed to be peaceful at the end of a day and it's eye-opening, this reality that makes me gulp in hearing. But I have to hear it to understand why. Why of all places is our home a source of stress to him?

I had never asked and he has always appreciated everything I juggle. And he's not complaining. It was just a topic that came up in our couples study earlier, which we were now discussing and he’s sharing honestly, and I didn't realize.

I didn't realize he experienced peace differently than how I viewed it. I measured it by how messy or clean the house was, how loud or quiet the children were, or how much arguing or correcting was occurring and I thought we were doing pretty good under the circumstances.

But it's the little things, he tells me. It's the tasks left undone for days or weeks. It's having a work space that is his and always touched by little hands or with my piles, and it's not just me. It's the never-ending household projects he has yet to cross off his list.

The water trickles as he brushes his teeth and I stand stunned as I think about how I am failing because what good is all of my efforts in creating a peaceful and orderly home if he doesn't feel it?

We draw back the covers and crawl into bed. Our conversation has ended, but I'm still thinking that maybe it's not about having a perfectly clean or a reasonably quiet space. Maybe peace isn’t something we create by doing things a certain way, or somehow conjure up at all. 

Isaiah 9:6 reminds me that Jesus is the Prince of Peace and that there will be no end to its increase upon His return. It is for us today and for us in its fullness one day soon. It increases in our hearts and lives the more Christ increases in us.

This stayed with me. 

Years later, stacks still pile up and projects remain unending. Little hands have grown and we wouldn’t change the noise or chaos through the years for anything—because peace can also be missing in the quiet spaces with tidy desks and checked-off tasks.

In the end, peace isn’t about the condition of our homes. It's about the posture of our hearts toward Christ and one another. Let advent remind you that when we allow Christ into our messy, unfinished tasks, even noisy, chaotic days become places of peace.

This week, as we lit the second purple candle on the advent wreath, rest in the assurance that peace doesn’t come from doing all the right things. It comes from letting Christ increase in our hearts and lives, bringing a peace that has no end.

Prayer 

Jesus, Prince of Peace, thank you for how wonderful and mighty You are. You are everlasting to everlasting. Please help my striving heart to rest in Your finished work. Increase Your peace in my heart and life through Your presence. Help me to reflect that peace with my family as we grow together in Your love.

Reflection

Where in your life are you striving to create your own peace? How might your perspective shift if you allowed Christ room to increase your peace today?

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Hey friend—if you enjoyed this post, you may be interested in these resources:

• Receive “An Advent Prayer for the Unsettled Heart” when you subscribe to my bi-weekly newsletter. Grab your free gift here.

• Discover true peace amid life’s chaos and trials in The Posture of Victory: Finding True Peace Amidst Our Everyday Battles here.

• Another great gift idea for a friend or loved one is Unexpected Blessings: 40 Days of Discovering God’s Best devotional. Shop here.

  

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The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness, a light has dawned. 

Isaiah 9:2 NIV

Standing in a darkened room, a single candle is lit. That one flame pierces the darkness, followed by another flame and another. We observe it coming for us, holding our candle, ready.

One of the features I love about Christmas is the lights. Light radiantly breaks through darkness everywhere, reminding us that darkness can never extinguish it. Darkness surrounds us in this world. The ache of brokenness writhes deeply within. The prince of darkness prowls to exploit every human's weakness. But we have hope because we know the Source of all hope. 

Jesus is the light that breaks through the darkness and guides each step through our broken-down world. He is the light that dawns after a sleepless, burdensome night. He is the light radiating the hope-filled promise that we are not destined for darkness. We were created for the light!

The whole earth radiates God’s character and beauty. It is a picture of truth. Jesus is our light, and in Him, we are that light. His light is coming for us. Like the candle that we light in a darkened church on Christmas Eve while singing “Silent Night,” Advent is the season for remembering and anticipating the arrival of our Savior, who ushers us into His glorious light. 

Friend, let’s be ready. We are not prepared when we have purchased every gift and placed them under the tree, or checked off the to-do list. We are ready when we hold our candle, receive Christ’s light, and share it with the next person. Let us protect our light amid the chaos of the season. Let it dance in the surrendered moments with Jesus and grow through cherished moments with loved ones.

Over the next four weeks, let’s prepare our hearts for Christ’s light to break through the darkness, one candle, one remembrance, and one act of surrender at a time. He is worthy.

Oh, come, let us adore Him! 

Jesus, you are the life and light of all mankind. We cannot imagine stumbling our way through this life without You. With You, we don’t have to stumble through darkness blindly. You invite us to gaze upon your beauty; to skip, dance, leap, and rejoice in the One who lights each step of our darkened world. This season, help us to be the light for someone else who may be stumbling through. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. 

John 1:4-5 NIV

Hey friend! I’m excited to spend more time on Substack in the coming year, beginning with this Advent season. Follow my weekly devotions here on Substack throughout Advent, or my daily prayers and reflections on Instagram and Facebook: Follow me on IG Follow me on FB

Also receive “An Advent Prayer for the Unsettled Heart” when you subscribe to my bi-weekly newsletter. Grab your free gift here!

Finally, subscribe to my Substack! I cannot wait to share new material beginning in January, related to my Bible study, “The Posture of Victory: Finding True Peace Amidst Our Everyday Battles”. Explore here!

I look forward to connecting with you!

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