Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.

Hebrews 11:1, ESV

Walking by my husband on a mission to another room before I forgot why I was heading there, he stopped me to show me a video on his phone of a fire that had happened that day in the northern portion of our state. As I watched the video showing firefighters on the extension ladder of their truck aiming their hoses at the tower portion of the county courthouse, the words that exited my mouth caught me off guard.

Is that real?

I actually stopped and thought about what I’d just said.

There has never been a time in my life when I have so often questioned whether what I was seeing with my own eyes was real. “Don’t believe everything you hear” has been common wisdom since childhood, but the latter half of that phrase, “and only half of what you see” wasn’t a phrase as needed. “Seeing is believing” was most often my motto. Now we live in a time when even what we see can be both manipulated and completely fabricated.

Images and videos can be altered or generated. Moments can be staged. Things can look 100% true and still be completely false. It’s strange to live in a world where your eyes can no longer be trusted as they once were.

It can be frustrating, but not just because of photo touchups, the internet, or AI, but because sometimes life can feel that way, too.

Why can’t our situations be as easily altered? Surely, by now the prayer would have been answered or the door would have opened. By now, the dream should be more clear, the marriage should feel lighter, the child should be doing better, finances should have turned around, healing should have come, or the calling should feel less complicated.

Instead, what you see in your life right now looks nothing like the promise you’ve been believing for. And when what you see feels loud, faith can feel hard.

When Appearances Shake Us

April Fool’s Day has always been one of my favorite days.

When I was teaching, I was constantly “falling for” the silly stories and ridiculous ideas my first graders brought me. It was part of the fun. My own boys enjoyed those antics, too. My husband, though, was never much for fooling around on April 1.

His reasoning was simple. He always wanted our boys to trust what Dad said.

This year, however, he decided to have a little fun. He used AI to create a photo of the two of us holding keys to a new truck and sent it to the boys. For a moment, one of them believed it. My husband came clean immediately, but said he felt bad for fooling them.

And honestly, I understood. Trust matters.

We all want people in our lives whose words we can trust. We want what they say to be dependable. Reliable. Faithful. True.

That is what makes Hebrews 11:1 so powerful. “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen” (ESV). Faith isn’t pretending. It’s not denying reality. It’s not working up your emotions so you feel spiritual. It’s not an emotion at all.

Faith is confidence in the character and nature of God.

God doesn’t exaggerate, filter, manipulate, or mislead. God isn’t a counterfeiter. He doesn’t offer false hope or speak nonchalantly. When God makes a promise, it’s true.

What Do You Do When Life Doesn’t Look Like the Promise

We all have seasons of waiting and hoping. We love God, honor His commands, and believe His Word. Honestly, however, what we see with our natural eyes can be a stark contrast to what His Word says and feel far more convincing than the promises we’ve been praying.

Maybe that is where you find yourself right now.

You know what God has said, but what you see in front of you feels contradictory. He stirred a dream in your heart, but you see no way for it to come to pass. You’ve prayed, waited, trusted, and hoped, and now you are wondering if you misunderstood Him after all.

So let me encourage you. Just because you don’t see fulfillment yet doesn’t make the promise less real.

We all feel better when we can point to the thing we’ve been praying for, when the prayer has come true as we hoped. We want proof. We want to check off the box or have measurable progress. We want results we can hold in our hands.

But faith is believing and trusting what we can’t yet determine based on our natural senses alone. It’s trusting His heart before we can trace His hand. That isn’t foolish. It’s fidelity.

God is Faithful

Fidelity is “the state of being faithful. Accuracy; exactness.”[i]

In a world permeated by change, edited images, conjured videos, and shifting opinions, God and His Word remain unchanged. He is faithful, accurate, and exact. Malachi 3:6a says, “For I am the Lord, I do not change [but remain faithful to My covenant with you]” (AMP). James 1:17 tells us that God is the giver of perfect gifts, “for He is perfect and never changes” (AMP). Hebrews 13:8 says, “Jesus Christ is [eternally changeless, always] the same yesterday and today and forever” (AMP).

Over and over you find this truth in God’s Word.

He isn’t careless with His words, vague with His promises, or unstable in His character. If it is in His Word, it is true. And Jeremiah 1:12 tells us that God is “actively watching over His Word to perform it.”

If you’re walking through a season that feels unsteady or your heart feels shattered and your mind uncertain, those are truths that matter deeply.

There have been moments when I was experiencing something I wished wasn’t real. Sitting in a chair across from a white-coated official hearing a diagnosis about my child. Getting a phone call that our son was on his way to the emergency room. Those moments were real. I lived them. You may be living them, too.

The diagnosis may be real. The phone call, the disappointment, and the delay may be real. The closed door, the ended relationship, and the tears may be real. But none of those things are more real than the faithfulness and love of God. And you can trust the fidelity of His Word.

We Don’t Walk by Sight

It may sometimes seem easier to trust what is falling apart in front of us than to trust what God has spoken over us. I’ve heard the report spoken that felt louder than the Truth buried in my heart.

In those moments, it is time to get out the shovel and dig until we uncover and remember the promises that become life to our souls. That takes faith, and that is the key word in Hebrews 11:1.

Faith is the Greek word pistis, a word describing the belief in the existence of God as Creator and Jesus as the Messiah. It is assurance, fidelity.[ii] Faith is knowing and believing God’s Word is true regardless of what we see, hear, feel . . . it’s more real than our senses can perceive.

It isn’t denial or hype. It isn’t pretending everything is fine. It’s truth. God’s truth.

God’s truth is steady when emotions rise and fall. His truth is untouched by delay and not based on how things appear right now. His truth is based on who He is.

2 Corinthians 1:20, AMP

His promises aren’t shaky or unstable. Our job is to come into agreement with them. That is our faith-filled response. Amen, literally meaning, “so be it.” Lord, You said it, so be it in my life.

Jesus calls us to trust Him. Not because we’ve seen Him. Not because we’ve touched Him. But because without that trust, we have nothing.

There have been moments when things have been so good I’ve needed to pinch myself to be sure it was real. God’s promises are more real than what you can fathom. So when you find yourself in the place where impossibility screams louder than faith, pause, pray, and open His Word. Remind yourself of who He has always been and come into agreement with what He says about you and your life.

His promises are true and He is worthy of our trust. His yes still stands, and by faith, you can still say amen.

Pray

Father, I thank You that You are always faithful, even when my mind wanders. I can always trust Your Word and hold to Your promises. It is there that I find the happiness, favor, and security I long for, because I believe in You. I choose to hold tightly to You. I won’t be ruled by my natural senses, but will hold to and agree with, in faith, the promises You have spoken over me. In Jesus’ name, amen.

[i] Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, s.v. “fidelity,” accessed March 24, 2026, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fidelity.

[ii]“G4102 – pistis – Strong’s Greek Lexicon (KJV).” Blue Letter Bible. Accessed 2 Apr, 2026. https://www.blueletterbible.org/lexicon/g4102/kjv/tr/0-1/

For more about faith and believing for the impossible, get Holly’s book, Believing for a Miracle available in paperback and Kindle versions on Amazon.

5 Simple Faith Steps for a Peace-Filled Day

Because even on the busiest days, you can still walk in peace with Jesus.

<p>Feeling stretched thin, distracted, or spiritually “running on empty”?
You’re not alone. Life is busy—but your time with God doesn’t have to be complicated.

That’s why I created 5 Simple Faith Steps—a one-page guide designed to help you draw close to God in the middle of your everyday life.

Inside this printable, you’ll discover:
1 verse to start your day with focus and faith
A simple prayer practice you can do in seconds
A gratitude rhythm that shifts your perspective
How to act on God’s nudges with courage
A nighttime surrender that helps you rest in peace

Each step takes less than 2 minutes—but can completely change how you experience your day.

 

Get your free guide today!

 Quick rhythms. Simple prayers. A heart anchored in Jesus. 

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Have you ever stood at a crossroads in life and thought, “God, I don’t know what to do?” Maybe you’ve whispered prayers through tears, or felt like your faith was flickering instead of blazing. If so, you’re not alone—and more importantly, you’re not failing. You’re human. And faith isn’t about feelings. It’s a decision to keep trusting God anyway.

Life comes with a lot of shifting ground—aging parents, adult children, health challenges, relationship changes, and questions about your purpose in this season. Sometimes the fog is thick, and the path ahead feels invisible. But here’s the good news:

God doesn’t need your perfection. He just wants your trust.

That’s why I created this 7-Day Printable Devotional Set.

“Walking by Faith, Not by Feelings”
A Scripture-rich, peace-centered guide to help you trust God when life feels uncertain.

These 5×7 printable cards are designed to be both beautiful and biblical—something you’ll want to frame, keep in your Bible, or tape to your mirror.

Each printable includes:
A powerful daily Scripture
A short, encouraging reflection
A heartfelt prayer
A simple, actionable faith step

Whether you read one each morning with your coffee, tuck them into your purse, or bundle them as a gift to a friend, these devotionals are meant to strengthen your faith—right where you are.

Ready to walk by faith—even on the foggy days?

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Have you ever sensed God whispering in the middle of your to-do list?

Maybe it was a nudge to text a friend, an unexpected conversation in the grocery store, or a quiet moment in the car when you suddenly felt seen and sensed God’s presence stirring your heart to listen.

I created Meeting God in the Ordinary for women like us—women who want to live on purpose, listen closely, and follow Jesus even when life feels full (and a little chaotic).

This 30-day devotional will help you:
Recognize God’s presence in everyday life
Respond to His nudges with bold faith
Love others deeply—even in small, unnoticed ways

Each day includes a short devotional, scripture, reflection question, and one simple step of obedience.

Because you don’t need to be perfect.
You just need to be present.

Ready to start your 30-day journey?
Download Meeting God in the Ordinary for just $4.99 and discover how small moments become sacred when we say yes.

 Get the Devotional Now
(Available as an instant download on my website!)

Click Here to Purchase

The post Is that Real? When What You See Doesn’t Match What God Said appeared first on Holly D. Murray.

And your ears will hear a word behind you, saying, This is the way; walk in it, when you turn to the right hand and when you turn to the left.

Isaiah 30:21

Comfort vs. Calling: When God Stretches Your Personality

When I stopped working the other day, I left all the documents open on my desk and computer screen that needed my attention the next morning. I knew exactly what I needed to do next, which client I needed to contact to get some clarity on their project, and which chapter I’d be reading to edit next. My online calendar was pulled up, the desk was tidy, and all my other notebooks were in their assigned slot within easy reach. I could have taken a picture.

Perhaps I should have taken a picture, because the next morning came and my nicely-laid plans and ordered schedule took a nose dive into the abyss. I’d slept on my back wrong and while Saturday is typically the day I set aside as a day off, now I had no choice but to stay out of my office chair. By Monday, even with the heating pad as my new BFF, I still was unable to work.

I have a feeling you know exactly what it’s like when life refuses to cooperate with your carefully laid plans. Maybe your wrench looked different from mine this week, but the frustration? That probably sounded familiar.

Just Give Me a Box

I love a little time off as much as the next gal, but I felt such an urgency to get back to my routine. I love helping my clients and writing, and being forced to take three days without the feeling of productivity and checking off some kind of box was about more than I could stand.

I’m not much for adventure, but I love a good box to check off. Having a predictable list in an organized, structured day is the environment in which I thrive. I like to know what I need to do, when it needs to be done, and to see progress from start to voila! I don’t like wrenches, and back pain was throwing a wrench in my plans. The frustration was palpable.

Maybe like me, you thrive on structure, but everything around you feels a bit chaotic and unpredictable. Maybe you need quiet to refuel, but your life has grown loud and demanding. Or maybe you are the helper everyone can rely on, but lately you feel stretched thin and a little resentful that your number seems to always be the first one people text and you are always the one holding everything together.

If that sounds familiar, I want to say this so gently to your heart. The fact that this season feels hard does not mean you are failing. It may simply mean God is shaping you.

Not because He is disappointed in you.

Not because He is punishing you.

Not because you missed it.

But because He loves you enough to grow you.

The Gift of the Stretch

When routines shift and frustrations rise, it causes me to wonder if I’m cut out to be serving the people God sends my way. But the truth is, God knows my wiring. He made me on purpose for a purpose of His design, and He did that fully knowing my personality “quirks.” The same is true for you.

Your strengths and weaknesses, whether you’re a hot mess or always cool as a cucumber, your preferences, what makes you tick, and what makes you overcome with joy are all unsurprising to God. He knows what drains and restores you, where your mind feels stretched and where your heart is tender.

And if you’ve walked with Him for any length of time, you’ve probably noticed that He leads us through seasons that cause us to rely completely on Him.

Remind You of Anyone?

It causes me to think of Moses giving God all the reasons he couldn’t do what God was calling him to do in Exodus 3-4. God didn’t want to use Moses in his own strength, but actually wanted to work miracles through Moses to work the release of the Israelites from Pharoah’s control. Moses had to rely on doing only what God directed him to do to see the results God had planned, and it required a level of dependence on God I’m sure Moses had never known before. God wanted a partnership with Moses.

I believe this is a great example for us. No matter what our season looks like, if we can learn to depend on Him for every step, we would find ourselves seeing more of God’s plan come to life in us. He wants to partner with us in His Kingdom plan. Sometimes we want God to change the season we are in. But sometimes God is wanting to develop us, to stretch us, in that season.

In talking with a friend this week, I confessed that I didn’t like stretching. I like it about as much as adventure and change. I love that she disagreed with me about being stretched. She reminded me that the resistance we feel, being pulled beyond what is comfortable, is actually good for us. It helps us to learn new things about ourselves, other people, and about His love for us. Moreover, stretching can be a gift from God, as we become more reliant on Him and less dependent on what we can do in our own strength. It is part of healthful preparation.

And I know that the king of Egypt will not let you go [unless forced to do so],
no, not by a mighty hand. So I will stretch out My hand and smite Egypt
with all My wonders which I will do in it; and after that he will let you go.
And I will give this people favor and respect in the sight of the Egyptians;
and it shall be that when you go, you shall not go empty-handed.
Exodus 3:19-21

When the Enemy Uses Your Wiring Against You

One of the quickest ways to get discouraged is to start believing that the struggle you are facing or the ways you are needing to stretch are evidence that something is wrong with you or you’ve missed God’s direction.

If you love order and predictability, the enemy will tell you that you aren’t safe when you can’t control the outcome. If you are sensitive and deeply feeling, he will tell you your emotions prove God is far away. If you are driven and responsible, he will tell you that if you stop striving, everything will fall apart. If you are a helper, he will tell you that love means overextending and that rest is selfish. And if you find yourself falling in more than one category, his lies are easily compounded and just as relentless.

He does not need a new strategy. He just needs you to interpret this season as proof that you are not enough, you’ll never find success or joy in God’s plan for your life, or that you don’t hear God at all.

But that is not God’s voice.

God may correct you. He may redirect you. He may convict you. But He will not crush you with shame, accuse you, or speak to you with contempt.

So before you assume you are failing, pause and ask yourself, Is this God leading me, or is this pressure driving me?

God is a loving Father who wants to see His children successfully walking out the call He has on their lives with joy, peace, freedom, and every fruit of the Spirit evident! Here is what God’s Word says about how God directs us:

And your ears will hear a word behind you, saying, This is the way;
walk in it, when you turn to the right hand and when you turn to the left.
Isaiah 30:21

A Moment I Remember Clearly

There have been seasons when I felt out of sync with my own life. I was doing all the right things, but I did not feel steady on the inside. I was carrying a lot and trying not to let anyone see how heavy it felt.

I remember sitting with my journal and writing down the events of that day. As I listened for what God had to say, He told me not to worry about anything. I argued back that I wasn’t worried. I was being a good, faithful daughter trusting God’s plan for my life. But He didn’t correct Himself.

In my desire to want to live well, honor God, and check off all the boxes, I was deeply and unknowingly worried. I didn’t want to let anyone down – not my clients, my husband, or God. There was clearly an undercurrent of self-imposed pressure I was carrying instead of releasing it all to God in complete trust and surrender.

And in His simple words, “Do not worry about anything,” He was reminding me that if I wasn’t intentionally releasing my concerns to Him, I might be unintentionally holding some of them to myself.

Cast Your Cares

When you go fishing, you cast your line in the water. Cast means to throw or launch. I used to go fishing with my husband all the time. If I made a good cast, it was usually fairly far away from me where the fish couldn’t see or hear me (I’m not usually “hear a pin drop” quiet when I fish). That is the way I think about the scripture in 1 Peter 5:7, when God tells us to cast our cares on Him. He wants us to throw them far from us, not deposit them neatly at our feet so we can pick them back up in a few minutes.

Casting the whole of your care [all your anxieties, all your worries,
all your concerns, once and for all] on Him,
for He cares for you affectionately and cares about you watchfully.
1 Peter 5:7

What the Lord reminded me of was simple.

You are not doing this alone.

Sometimes we forget that part. We pray, and then we still carry everything like it depends entirely on us. We love God, but we live like the outcome is our responsibility.

Friend, partnership with God does not remove your responsibility, but it does remove the pressure of carrying it alone.

Comfort Is Not the Same as Peace

There is a man in Scripture who had been sick for thirty eight years. That is a long time to be stuck in the same place. A long time to wake up to the same limitation. A long time to feel overlooked.

When Jesus came to him, He asked a question that seems almost too simple.

“Do you want to get well?”

Jesus was not being insensitive. He knew how long the man had been that way. He saw him. He noticed him. He cared. But Jesus was also inviting him to imagine a different life.

Sometimes Jesus asks us questions like that.

Do you want to be free from survival mode?
Do you want to stop living from pressure and start living from peace?
Do you want to keep shrinking back, or do you want to step into what God is calling you to do?

Some of us have gotten used to the way things have been. Even if we say we want change, we are afraid to hope again. Afraid to try again. Afraid that disappointment will hurt too much.

So we settle. We may call it peace, but it is really familiarity.

Jesus does not shame the stuck places in us. He simply invites us to step into something new.

The Stretch Often Targets What You Rely on Most

This is something I have learned over and over.

God often stretches the very area we lean on most because He is inviting us to lean harder on Him.

One day last week, I was driving to pick up a curbside order. The traffic was horrendous and my patience was exhausted. I was flustered and fussing as car after car passed in front of me while I waited for an appropriate clearing to turn right. I could tell I was just downright mad, and there was no reason for it. The correction came quietly but clearly. “Patience is a fruit of My Spirit.”

I wish I could say He only told me once. But He had to tell me twice.

What a good God we serve! He loves us enough to correct us as often as we need it. In that moment, I needed calm. He taught me patience.

When you need clarity, He teaches trust.
When you need control, He teaches surrender.
When you need comfort, He teaches courage.
When you need to feel capable, He teaches dependence.

That is why a season can feel so uncomfortable. It is not always because you are off track. It may be because God is close enough to lead you differently than you would lead yourself. He is stretching us, molding us, wanting to make us more like Him and more surrendered to His call as we partner with Him in every season.

The Bellows of Faith in an Ordinary Life

One of the images God has used to teach me about faith is a fire. A fire does not stay strong on accident. If you ever sat around a firepit, you know it. The flames can be beautiful, but if you leave them unattended, the fire fades to embers.

Sometimes our faith feels like that. Not gone, but dim. Still there, but struggling.

And in those moments, what do you do?

You breathe life back into it.

You do not need a performance. You need a steady breath of Truth. You need to bring your heart back into agreement with what God says, not what the season is shouting.

That is what I mean when I say partnership over pressure. It is the choice to stop striving in your own strength and start paying attention to God’s presence in your everyday life.

One Obedient Step Changes Everything

The enemy loves to overwhelm you with the whole picture. He wants you spiraling in the what ifs, the hows, and the timelines.

But God often speaks in the next step.

Not the whole plan.
Not the ten-year blueprint.
The next instruction.

So here are three questions I want you to sit with today. You can write them in a journal or answer them quietly in prayer.

1. What is one thing God has already told me to do that I have delayed?
2. What is one small step I can take this week in faith, even if I feel nervous?
3. What lie is this season trying to plant in me, and what is God’s Truth?

This is where faith becomes practical. Not flashy. Not complicated. Just simple.

A Gentle Next Step for Women Who Feel Stretched

If this resonated with you and you’re wondering what one practical next step looks like, I created a simple digital resource called God in the Everyday. It’s not a program or a checklist — it’s just a gentle guide to help you notice where God is already present in your ordinary, stretched, imperfect day. You can find it here. Get God in the Everyday here: https://hollydmurray.com/product/god-in-the-everyday/

And if you love visual reminders of truth on an ordinary day, you can browse the mugs and shirts in my shop here: https://hollydmurray.com/shop-2/

If you are not just stretched but carrying something heavy, I also want you to know my book Believing for a Miracle was written from a very real place. It is for the woman who loves God, knows He can, and is learning to trust Him when the need feels urgent and the process feels long. You can find it here. https://amzn.to/4tYEYUE

Let’s Talk, My Friend

I do not want this to be a place where you only read and move on. I want it to be a place where we grow together. So here is a simple question.

Which feels hardest for you right now?

1. interruptions and unpredictability
2. trusting God hasn’t forgotten what I’m believing for
3. obedience that costs you comfort

Reply with 1, 2, or 3 in the comments. If you want, add one sentence about why. You might be surprised how many of us are in the same place.

I’d also like to invite you to share this post with those you love. Others may appreciate the encouragement as much as I appreciate knowing this message has blessed your heart.

Closing Encouragement

Before you close this page, take a deep breath.

God is not asking you to become a different person. He is inviting you to become a deeper one. One who knows to Whom they can run when they need to be carried or encouraged, to get a fresh Word to know they are on the right track.

Your personality is not the problem. The pressure to carry life alone is the problem.

So today, choose partnership over pressure. Choose one obedient step over a fully-fleshed-out perfect plan. And if this season feels uncomfortable, do not assume you are off track. It may simply mean God is stretching you or leading you somewhere new.

Prayer:

Father, thank You that You know me completely and still call me lovingly. Thank You that my personality is not a mistake and my limits are not shameful. Help me recognize where the enemy is using this season to plant lies in my mind, and give me wisdom to replace them with Your Truth. Teach me to choose partnership over pressure and to obey You one step at a time. Give me peace as You lead me, and courage to follow. In Jesus’ name, amen.

References:

All Scripture quotations unless otherwise marked are taken from the Amplified® Bible, Copyright ©1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission. www.Lockman.org

Scripture quotations marked (TLB) are from the Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. The Living Bible, TLB, and the The Living Bible logo are registered trademarks of Tyndale House Publishers.

For more about faith and believing for the impossible, get Holly’s book, Believing for a Miracle available in paperback and Kindle versions on Amazon.

Free Courage Scripture Cards (Printable 4×6)

Download a free set of 4×6 Courage Scripture Cards featuring 17 encouraging Bible verses to help you stand firm, speak truth, and keep going.

What You’ll Receive:

A printable PDF with 17 handpicked verses that are personal favorites

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Why You’ll Love Them

Use these cards to:

• Place around the house as daily faith reminders
• Use as a bookmark for your Bible, devotional, or current read
• Frame a favorite verse for your desk, nightstand, or prayer corner

 

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Have you ever sensed God whispering in the middle of your to-do list?

Maybe it was a nudge to text a friend, an unexpected conversation in the grocery store, or a quiet moment in the car when you suddenly felt seen and sensed God’s presence stirring your heart to listen.

I created Meeting God in the Ordinary for women like us—women who want to live on purpose, listen closely, and follow Jesus even when life feels full (and a little chaotic).

This 30-day devotional will help you:
Recognize God’s presence in everyday life
Respond to His nudges with bold faith
Love others deeply—even in small, unnoticed ways

Each day includes a short devotional, scripture, reflection question, and one simple step of obedience.

Because you don’t need to be perfect.
You just need to be present.

Ready to start your 30-day journey?
Download Meeting God in the Ordinary for just $4.99 and discover how small moments become sacred when we say yes.

 Get the Devotional Now
(Available as an instant download on my website!)

Click Here to Purchase

Watch the video for more about finding joy in the journey. It will premiere at 4 p.m. on Friday, 9.19.2025. Be sure to like, subscribe, and share with others!

Click here to watch!

The post Feeling Stretched and Overwhelmed? | Here’s What God Might Be Doing appeared first on Holly D. Murray.

To everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven.

Ecclesiastes 3:1, AMPC

Life has a way of shifting just when we think we’ve finally settled into a rhythm. One season flows smoothly, and the next arrives with unexpected changes that stretch our comfort and our faith. Learning how to honor God in different seasons of life requires humility and a willingness to trust Him, even when the changes feel inconvenient.

When Life Slows Down After the Kids Leave Home

When the children moved out and I finally quit crying every time they left after visiting (okay, I’m still working on that one), I began to develop and even enjoy my new routine. Life grew quieter. Slower. And honestly, sweeter in some unexpected ways.

I scheduled my work-from-home days with slow starts with Jesus, cradling a hot cup of coffee while the house stayed still. I only went into the office one day a week. The rest of the time, I stayed in my pajamas, solving problems and completing work tasks from my computer desk at home. Everything stayed remarkably clean. I loved the rhythm of being home ninety percent of the week.

A Career Shift and a New Season of Faith

Then this fall, God threw a curveball.

I stepped away from my full-time position at church and focused fully on my publishing company. It was hard to step away, to be obedient. I felt a little guilty some days when the woman who took over my position would call with questions, or I’d think about things I had always done and wondered to whose plate it had been added. There were days I wondered if I’d made a mistake, especially when the income we’d budgeted was no longer coming in each week.

There were moments when I questioned if I’d heard God correctly. But each time I considered the option to return to my previous job or consider a different one, I felt something within me become uneasy and heard His whisper to trust Him. Even in moments of uncertainty.

Life is rarely static. God sometimes calls us beyond what feels naturally comfortable. He does this, not because He overlooks how He made us, but because He sees a Kingdom need and knows what He has placed within us to meet it. Comfort can make us complacent. It can cause us to forget our need for His strength, wisdom, provision, and mercy. Transformation happens through change, not from being stagnant.

So, I developed a different routine, adding personal writing deadlines and client projects to my daily calendar. I entered my office at the same time I always had, but the tasks were different.

As the days turned into weeks, I became more comfortable. Being home was the perfect fit for my personality, and I was enjoying my new season. I was learning to trust God in ways I’d never had to before, however, and that was stretching me. I had no idea who my next client would be nor when they’d find me. But He’d told me to trust Him, and He’d never failed me before. When I’d sit with my journal in the evenings, He would gently say not to worry. Just trust Him; He had a plan. I would remind myself of that each time my mind considered the future.

I’m not entirely independent. I am married and thankful to have a husband who takes care of many things I don’t even want to learn how to do. But sometimes dependence on someone other than yourself can feel like a weakness. I’m not even sure why that is. Perhaps it’s a pride issue. I mean, why can’t God just call us to do something we can do in our own strength?

Then I think about how much joy I get when my children ask me to help them with something. For me, honoring God in this season means trusting Him to provide when I don’t see the answer. It means asking Him to help me find the words to write that will matter to the one who will one day be reading them. For you, the plans He has in this season may look different. But what I know is that we can do so much more with Him than without Him. And sometimes that means He’ll stretch us in ways we never expected.

Understanding Your God-Given Personality

When I tell people I’m an introvert, they usually don’t believe me, but God knew how He wired me. He understands my introverted heart, my need for quiet, and the way stillness restores me. And yet this Christmas, when we welcomed a puppy, He reminded me that even introverts who love routine need to be stretched.

Suddenly, my carefully settled routine was interrupted by potty breaks, playtimes, unexpected messes, and constant reminders that life rarely stays neatly scheduled. My life was no longer quiet. Just when I’d sit down to work, there’d be a nudge at my feet or a whine from the pen for yet another trip outside (I mean, it’s been a whole ten minutes.) But here, in the middle of a storm of our own creation, God is using this new season to teach me.

I’m learning to have grace for interruptions (and for myself when I fail at that). I’m learning that what God is working in me is more important than the level of my productivity. It’s hard for someone who likes to check off all the boxes, but I’m in process.

Every season, quiet or chaotic, comes with paths He has already prepared, paths designed not only for my obedience but for my growth. He has good plans for my future and for my present. I just need to remember that whatever the season brings, I need to look for God’s hand and direction, and to trust that He knows my unique needs. Hearing His voice and communicating with Him is the key to hope and breakthrough.

But how do we hear His voice in our current season? For me, it’s this uneasiness when I’m about to make the wrong decision, and peace that settles when I’m aligned with His will. It’s sharing my thoughts and process with my husband or a trusted friend for counsel or when His Word speaks directly to my situation. I feel a nudge, get an idea I wouldn’t have normally thought of, or hear His voice whispering to my spirit. You may hear His voice differently, but He promises to give wisdom to all who ask (James 1:5).

For the Lord God is a Sun and Shield; the Lord bestows [present] grace and favor and [future] glory (honor, splendor, and heavenly bliss)! No good thing will He withhold from those who walk uprightly.
Psalms 84:11

I can trust Him, because I know He has my ultimate good as His priority.

The Need for Community

As much as I love being home, there are times when I don’t want to leave it. Frankly, it would probably be more accurate to say I hardly ever want to leave it. Staying home feels easier. Quieter. Safer. And I don’t have to put on makeup.

And yet, I know gathering with other believers is good for me.

Small group Bible study stretches me. We laugh together, and it can be so much fun. We get personal. Sometimes that’s hard. But hard and bad are not the same.

Church reminds me that faith isn’t meant to be lived alone, no matter how peaceful isolation can feel. God often grows us through people, even when we’d rather stay comfortable. And there is something that happens when we’re physically present with other believers. There’s encouragement, accountability, and a shared joy that I simply can’t replicate when I’m watching service online at home.

Scripture speaks clearly:

Let us consider and give attentive, continuous care to watching over one another… not forsaking or neglecting to assemble together.
Hebrews 10:24-25

Honoring God sometimes means choosing obedience over ease. It means showing up when you’d rather stay home. And when we mess up, miss it, or choose comfort first, He’s faithful to give us another opportunity to get it right next time.

Change Is Not Failure—It’s an Invitation

This week, I read a post from Hosanna Wong that deeply resonated with my heart. She shared that there are seasons when she doesn’t feel connected to God in the same way she once did—or the way others seem to be.

She wrote:

“There isn’t just one way to enjoy God. He designed your unique personality, placed you in a specific season, and delights in meeting you right where you are.”
– Hosanna Wong

That truth brought relief and reassurance. I love sitting with His Word every day. I’ve found I’m more successful at that when it’s the very first thing I do. Some days I get distracted and my Bible time is delayed. I’ve even missed it altogether. But even on days when I’ve neglected to sit with His Word, He still reaches out and brings a verse to mind. Or I see something that causes me to meditate on a verse I’d heard preached at church. Perhaps, like me, as seasons have changed, the way you spend time with God changes, too.

Seasons don’t take God by surprise. You don’t need to have everything in your life figured out and perfected to come to Him, either. And am I thankful for that! One of my favorite hymns tells us we can come to God exactly as we are! Matthew 11:28 tells us, “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy-laden and overburdened…” So when I’m overwhelmed, have neglected something important, or am tired of pressing forward, He welcomes me to lean into Him for strength, rest, and peace.

Change doesn’t mean you’re doing something wrong. Often, it means God is inviting you to meet Him in a new way. Did you know that God is just as good at speaking to me in the yard while I’m walking the dog as He is when I sit with my Bible in my lap and a coffee cup in my hand? Not that I shouldn’t ever sit with His Word! He speaks through His Word, and I learn more of Him, His character, and how to live life well when I spend time reading it. But He speaks in a variety of ways. He’s always speaking. We just need to tune in to hear what He’s saying.

And when seasons you’re in feel like they’re never going to change? You can trust God even then. He sees you in the painfully long seasons. When the effort of getting up again feels harder. When it feels like you can’t shake the heaviness. In those moments, the One who never changes will be your strength. In 2 Corinthians 12:9b, Paul declares that in those seasons the “strength and power of Christ (the Messiah) may rest (yes, may pitch a tent over and dwell) upon me!” God’s presence won’t leave you in seasons of struggle, pain, or delay. He has staying power.

Trusting God in Every Season of Life

Scripture reminds us,
“To everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven.” (Ecclesiastes 3:1)

If you’re in a season where you’re questioning if you heard God right, where the bills keep coming and the income doesn’t seem to be changing, where your carefully ordered life has been interrupted by chaos you didn’t choose (or even chaos you did choose), take heart. He sees you. He’s not forgotten you. Seasons, even the ones that feel never-ending, are temporary. And the same God who whispered “trust Me” in my uncertainty is whispering the same thing to you.

Prayer:

Father, thank You for meeting me in every season of life, even the interrupted ones. Help me honor You in both stillness and stretch, in routine and in change. Teach me to trust You when life throws curveballs or feels stagnant, and to recognize Your presence in the unexpected moments of my day. In Jesus’ name, amen.

References:

Hosanna Wong, “Your Relationship With God Doesn’t Have To Look Like Everyone Else’s,” Proverbs 31 Ministries, January 28, 2026, https://info.proverbs31.org/your-relationship-with-god-doesnt-have-to-look-like-everyone-elses-hosanna-wong

All Scripture quotations marked are taken from the Amplified® Bible, Copyright ©1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission. www.Lockman.org

For more about faith and believing for the impossible, get Holly’s book, Believing for a Miracle available in paperback and Kindle versions on Amazon.

Honoring God in This Season Journal

Life doesn’t always stay neatly ordered. Seasons shift. Routines are interrupted. And sometimes, you’re left wondering how to honor God right where you are.

This free guided journal was created for women who want to hear God’s voice, stay grounded in truth, and walk faithfully through changing seasons, without the pressure of trying to “fix” everything at once.

What You’ll Receive:

A Printable Guided Reflection & Prayer Journal (PDF)

This thoughtfully designed resource walks with you through discernment, gratitude, and prayer—helping you recognize what God is doing right now.

Inside, you’ll find:

Guided Reflection Pages

• Identify the season you’re currently in
• Reflect on comfort vs. calling
• Discern how God is speaking to you
• Process interruptions, uncertainty, and growth
• Scripture-based prompts to anchor your thoughts in truth

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7 Daily Gratitude Pages (Repeatable Weekly)

Each day invites you to pause and reflect on:

• How you’re feeling
• What God says about you
• What you’re grateful for
• What God is saying to you
• What you need to do more of—or less of
• Your favorite moment of the day
• What you’re looking forward to

These pages help train your heart to notice God’s presence even in busy or interrupted days.

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Weekly Prayer Request & Answered Prayer Pages

A dedicated space to:

• Write this week’s personal needs
• Record the Scripture you’re standing on
• Pray intentionally for others
• Track prayers God answered that week

You can print multiple copies and continue using this section week after week as a spiritual rhythm.

 

Why You’ll Love This Journal

 It meets you where you are.
No pressure. No perfect schedule. Just honest reflection and gentle guidance.

 It helps you hear God’s voice more clearly.
Through Scripture, prayer, and intentional reflection.

 It reframes interruptions as invitations.
Helping you see growth where you once felt frustration.

 It’s practical, peaceful, and deeply grounding.
Perfect for quiet mornings, evening reflection, or moments when life feels loud.

 It’s reusable.
Print what you need, when you need it, and return to it in future seasons.

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You Don’t Have to Figure This Season Out Alone

God hasn’t forgotten you.
Your current season didn’t catch Him off guard.
And He delights in meeting you right where you are.

“To everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven.”
—Ecclesiastes 3:1

 Download the free “Honoring God in This Season of Life” Journal
and begin listening, trusting, and walking with Him—one day at a time.

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Ready to Begin?

Enter your email below to grab your free Honoring God in This Season Prayer Journal and Guided Reflections for Trusting God Where You Are and start recognizing how God meets you right now.

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Get your free journal today!

Just drop your email below, and I’ll send the Honoring God in This Season Prayer Journal and Guided Reflections for Trusting God Where You Are straight to your inbox.

(It’s a beautiful eighteen-page printable.)

Click Here to Get Your Free Guide!

Have you ever sensed God whispering in the middle of your to-do list?

Maybe it was a nudge to text a friend, an unexpected conversation in the grocery store, or a quiet moment in the car when you suddenly felt seen and sensed God’s presence stirring your heart to listen.

I created Meeting God in the Ordinary for women like us—women who want to live on purpose, listen closely, and follow Jesus even when life feels full (and a little chaotic).

This 30-day devotional will help you:
Recognize God’s presence in everyday life
Respond to His nudges with bold faith
Love others deeply—even in small, unnoticed ways

Each day includes a short devotional, scripture, reflection question, and one simple step of obedience.

Because you don’t need to be perfect.
You just need to be present.

Ready to start your 30-day journey?
Download Meeting God in the Ordinary for just $4.99 and discover how small moments become sacred when we say yes.

 Get the Devotional Now
(Available as an instant download on my website!)

Click Here to Purchase

Watch the video for more about finding joy in the journey. It will premiere at 4 p.m. on Friday, 9.19.2025. Be sure to like, subscribe, and share with others!

Click here to watch!

The post Honoring God in Different Seasons of Life | Faith, Change, and Community appeared first on Holly D. Murray.

And He said, “Certainly I will be with you, and this will be a sign to you, that I have sent you: When you have brought forth the people out of Egypt, all of you shall serve God on this mountain.”

Exodus 3:12, MEV

Have you ever felt God stirring something in your heart—an idea, a step of obedience, a call—and your very first thought was, “Who am I to do that? I’m completely inadequate for this task.”

You’re not alone. I’ve felt that same wave of doubt more times than I can count, wondering if I had the skill, the courage, or even the right words to follow what God was asking.

Feeling Inadequate? Sometimes It’s Just Different, Not Difficult

Just this week I was speaking with a new author who published a wonderful resource to help others grow in their walk with God. As we chatted about ways she could share it, she commented that beginning all these additional steps was difficult but that it would get easier.

Her words hit me hard, and something within me caused my back to stiffen and my spirit to be alerted. As I considered her words and the process to which she was referring, I felt an urgency to correct the term “difficult” to “different.” The things she would do weren’t hard, but to her they were new. And her skills weren’t inadequate—they simply hadn’t been stretched this way before. They were untested.

What a powerful shift in perspective that word-adjustment was! Maybe we experience feelings of inadquacy because we are doing something different from our normal.

Feeling Inadequate? Fear of the Unknown Can Hold You Back

I think about my journey and how many times I’ve balked at the unknown. For years, friends told me, “You should start a podcast!” And my gut reaction? Absolutely not! That is too hard! I’m not skilled enough, brave enough, or polished enough. Besides, I don’t have the time, and who would want to watch it? I felt completely inadequate!

All these excuses were rooted in one thing: fear of the unknown.

But God has a way of nudging us forward, even in tiny, seemingly inconsequential steps. When I decorated my office, I created a sign for my door to let my family know if I was writing, coaching a client, or available. At the very bottom, I added one little word: Recording.

Recording? At that point, the very idea turned a billion butterflies loose in my stomach. I was nowhere near ready to commit to starting a podcast or even to tell anyone it was a thought in my head. And yet within that one written word, God was planting a seed of possibility in my heart that just needed time to grow. He knew some people needed encouragement I could never give in person—and He was preparing a way for my voice to reach them. That little word on the bottom of my door sign was my indication to God that I was willing to move if He called.

GULP. (But please don’t!)

The Lie of Feeling Inadequate: Learning from Moses

It makes me think of Moses. Oh, how I relate to him! Like Moses, I had one hundred and one reasons why I couldn’t do what God was asking—why I was inadequate for the call. But that never changed God’s mind.

In Exodus 3, God calls Moses from the burning bush to lead His people out of Egypt. And what does Moses say? “Who am I (to do this thing you’ve called me to do)?”

Sound familiar? It surely does to me! It’s one of the biggest lies the enemy throws my way which snowballs into other lies every.single.time I dare obey God: Who do you think you are? What if you fail? What if you’re not enough? You’re completely inadequate for this task!

God Sees Beyond Our Inadequacy

But notice God’s response. He doesn’t say, “Moses, you’re gifted enough, smart enough, and strong enough.” Instead, He made a promise and cast the vision of Moses’ success: “Certainly I will be with you, and this will be a sign to you, that I have sent you: When you have brought forth the people out of Egypt, all of you shall serve God on this mountain” (Exodus 3:12, MEV).

The success of God’s call on Moses’ life wasn’t dependent on Moses’ ability. It would come because of God’s presence. If Moses was willing and obedient to God’s call, there would be a great big sign that it was God’s plan, and God wanted Moses to see what success his obedience would bring.

When Feeling Inadequate, Step Bodly into God’s Plan

Sweet friend, the same is true for you.

That dream tugging at your heart, the idea you keep dismissing as too hard, too big, or too scary—it’s not about whether you’re “enough.” It’s about the God who promises to be with you every step of the way.

Ephesians 3:20 reminds us that He is “able to do exceedingly abundantly beyond all that we ask or imagine, according to the power that works in us” (MEV).

So let me ask you: What will success look like for you when you dare to step into what God is calling you to do? Who might be touched by your obedience? How might your life—and theirs—be transformed? Take some time to imagine your future doing what God called you to do. God gave us imagination to help shape the destiny He has planned for us, so use it to imagine with God!

Don’t let fear or comparison keep you frozen. Your calling doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s. God uniquely gifted you for the very assignment He’s placed before you.

Take the step. Whisper yes. Trust Him.

And the next time the enemy whispers, “Who are you?”—you can answer with confidence: I am the one God has called, and He is with me.

A Prayer of Courage

“Lord, I confess that sometimes I feel small and unsure when You call me. But today, I choose to believe Your promise: You are with me. I don’t have to be perfect; I just have to be willing. Give me courage to take the next step, faith to silence the lies, and joy in knowing You’ve chosen me for such a time as this. Amen.”

I am the one God has called,
and He is with me.

References:

Scripture quotations marked (MEV) are taken from the Modern English Version. Copyright © 2014 by Military Bible Association. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, Copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

For more about faith and believing for the impossible, get Holly’s book, Believing for a Miracle available in paperback and Kindle versions on Amazon.

5-Minute Reset with Jesus

Find Peace in Just 5 Minutes with Jesus

Life feels busy. Your heart is pulled in a hundred directions, and before you know it, the day is gone—yet your soul still feels restless.
But what if, in just 5 minutes, you could pause, breathe, and reset with Jesus?

That’s why I created the 5-Minute Reset with Jesus Guide—a free printable resource to help you slow down, stop striving, and invite God’s peace and presence into your everyday moments.

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What You’ll Receive:

• A simple, step-by-step guide to quiet your mind and heart
• Scripture to anchor your soul in God’s truth
• Gentle prompts to help you release stress and refocus on what matters most
• Space for reflection and prayer to connect deeply with Jesus

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Why You’ll Love It:

This reset isn’t another “to-do” for your busy day—it’s a life-giving pause. In just 5 minutes, you’ll experience:
More peace in your spirit
Renewed focus for your calling
A deeper sense of God’s presence right where you are

Ready to Begin?

Don’t wait for life to slow down—choose to slow your heart today.

Enter your email below to grab your free 5-Minute Reset with Jesus Guide and start experiencing the joy of walking in His peace, one moment at a time.

(It’s a beautiful one-page printable you can keep in your Bible, on the table next to your favorite cozy chair, or even post on your fridge.)

Click Here to Get Your Free Guide!

Have you ever sensed God whispering in the middle of your to-do list?

Maybe it was a nudge to text a friend, an unexpected conversation in the grocery store, or a quiet moment in the car when you suddenly felt seen and sensed God’s presence stirring your heart to listen.

I created Meeting God in the Ordinary for women like us—women who want to live on purpose, listen closely, and follow Jesus even when life feels full (and a little chaotic).

This 30-day devotional will help you:
Recognize God’s presence in everyday life
Respond to His nudges with bold faith
Love others deeply—even in small, unnoticed ways

Each day includes a short devotional, scripture, reflection question, and one simple step of obedience.

Because you don’t need to be perfect.
You just need to be present.

Ready to start your 30-day journey?
Download Meeting God in the Ordinary for just $4.99 and discover how small moments become sacred when we say yes.

 Get the Devotional Now
(Available as an instant download on my website!)

Click Here to Purchase

In this YouTube video, Am I Enough? Finding Courage to Follow God’s Call, you’ll discover how to overcome feelings of inadequacy and step boldly into the purpose God has placed on your life. Be sure to like, subscribe, and share with others!

Click here to watch!

Watch the video for more about finding joy in the journey. Be sure to like, subscribe, and share with others!

Click here to watch!

The post Feeling Inadequate? God Is With You appeared first on Holly D. Murray.

Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me.

John 15:4, NKJV

“Are we there yet?” Those four little words are among the most dreaded any parent ever hears in a compact space. While kids today have phones and tablets to distract them from the slow-moving hands of a clock, when I was a kid, we had road trip games. My brothers and I would search for words beginning with each letter of the alphabet and play one side of the car against the other. That was better than the “100 Bottles of Coke on the Wall” song (because my parents didn’t allow us to sing about beer).

Most road trips, especially when you are young, seem endless. The destination is the point of excitement for which you yearn. The trip itself has no purpose except to transport you from point A to point B.

As adults, it is easy to carry that same mindset into life—always rushing toward the next finish line. We become so goal-oriented that we end up as narrow-minded as children with their eyes on the prize—disregarding the possibilities along the way. While focus is important (as I shared in my previous blog), we can’t overlook the gift of development that comes with the process.

Lessons From Ants (I Don’t Like Ants)

When I was young, I wanted an ant farm. The only problem is, I could imagine ants getting loose in my room, and then I’d have to convince my parents to move. I don’t like crawling critters of any kind, and every experience I’ve ever had with an ant has been negative. But I thought watching ants tunnel through sand in their glass house would be fascinating.

Ants dig within a day of entering a new habitat, and there’d always be something to look at as the farm changed daily. Even God’s Word encourages us to learn from the ant’s hardworking ways. (Proverbs 6:6-8) Ants remind us that progress is rarely instant—it’s steady, diligent, daily work that builds something beautiful over time.

The Long Process of Building

I was reminded of this truth when a friend built her house. She could hardly wait for the process to begin and gathered friends to pray over the property. Each stage was exciting: breaking ground, laying the foundation, framing the rooms, and roughing-in the plumbing and electrical.

But there were also days when progress seemed to halt—when paperwork stalled, when rain delayed construction, or when they were waiting on materials. I never realized how tedious and detailed it is to see a building project through from start to finish.

When the builders finished the home, my excitement level was through the roof. I remembered what the property looked like before, and seeing the finished home was thrilling. But my friend was exhausted! She had lived through every detail of the process. I saw only the amazing result. She experienced the journey.

The Gift of Time

A friend and author, Ron Sprayberry, responded to some of my writing about staying focused on God’s call. His words stayed with me:

As I thought about Ron’s words, I considered what a precious gift time is. We all have the same amount every day we live: 24 hours. What we do with that time—how we spend it—is up to us.

Heaven is our ultimate reward, and we must keep our eyes on that prize. Paul says in Philippians 3:14 (CEV): “I run toward the goal, so I can win the prize of being called to Heaven. This is the prize God offers because of what Christ Jesus has done.”

But if salvation’s only purpose was to get us into Heaven, God could just receive us home the moment we accepted Jesus as Savior. Instead, He has a better plan. He uses us to point others to Him. That means our journey matters, and that’s why our focus must be on the plans and purposes to which God is calling us, not just on our final destination.

Abiding In The Everyday

Jesus’ words in John 15:4 (NKJV) are powerful:

Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me.

The Greek word for “abide” is meno, which means “not to depart, to continue to be present, to remain as one, to tarry.” Jesus is describing a relationship that’s ongoing, daily, and intentional.

This is what He desires—not just that we finish the race, but that we walk with Him every mile along the way. He wants to be part of our everyday lives—helping us with our calling, guiding us in our work, encouraging us as we serve our families, and empowering us to love others well. He is a friend who is always with us and wants to be invited into every decision, every moment. The joy isn’t just in the outcome—it’s in the ongoing relationship.

Paul describes the fruit of this abiding in Galatians 5:22-23 (CEV): “God’s Spirit makes us loving, happy, peaceful, patient, kind, good, faithful, gentle, and self-controlled. There is no law against behaving in any of these ways.” These aren’t rewards we collect at the finish line—they’re gifts produced in us as we journey with Him.

Joy In The Journey

David captures this message of a joyful journey beautifully in Psalms 16:11 (CEV):

“You have shown me the path to life, and You make me glad by being near to me. Sitting at Your right side, I will always be joyful.”

That passage reminds us that when we are in His presence, we have access to a joy that fully satisfies us. It’s an abundant joy not based on circumstances, but based on presence. God doesn’t want us to miss the joy of the process because we’re too focused on the prize. He’s with us in every decision, every milestone, and even every slow season when it feels like nothing is moving forward. And when He’s in us and we’re in Him, we can find within us a deep-seated joy that we can’t explain or get away from, even when outward circumstances don’t support it.

So this week, as you go about your tasks, invite Jesus into each moment. Where can you pause to abide in His peace, joy, and love? Where can you celebrate the milestones, however small? And where can you celebrate the ongoing journey of those around you?

Life is not just about “arriving.” It’s about walking with Him, day by day. Find unexpected joy in your journey. Let’s not just endure the ride—let’s completely enjoy it with Him.

Life with Jesus isn’t about rushing to arrive—
it’s about walking daily in delight.

References:

“G3306 – menō – Strong’s Greek Lexicon (kjv).” Blue Letter Bible. Accessed 7 Sep, 2025. https://www.blueletterbible.org/lexicon/g3306/kjv/tr/0-1/

Ron Sprayberry, email message to Holly Murray, September 5, 2025.

Scripture quotations marked (CEB) are taken from the Common English Bible, Copyright © 2011 by Common English Bible. Used by permission. www.CommonEnglishBible.com

Scripture quotations marked (CEV) are taken from the Contemporary English Version®, Copyright © 1995 American Bible Society. All rights reserved.

Scripture quotations marked (NKJV) are taken from the New King James Version®, Copyright ©1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

For more about faith and believing for the impossible, get Holly’s book, Believing for a Miracle available in paperback and Kindle versions on Amazon.

5-Minute Reset with Jesus

Find Peace in Just 5 Minutes with Jesus

Life feels busy. Your heart is pulled in a hundred directions, and before you know it, the day is gone—yet your soul still feels restless.
But what if, in just 5 minutes, you could pause, breathe, and reset with Jesus?

That’s why I created the 5-Minute Reset with Jesus Guide—a free printable resource to help you slow down, stop striving, and invite God’s peace and presence into your everyday moments.

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What You’ll Receive:

• A simple, step-by-step guide to quiet your mind and heart
• Scripture to anchor your soul in God’s truth
• Gentle prompts to help you release stress and refocus on what matters most
• Space for reflection and prayer to connect deeply with Jesus

---

Why You’ll Love It:

This reset isn’t another “to-do” for your busy day—it’s a life-giving pause. In just 5 minutes, you’ll experience:
More peace in your spirit
Renewed focus for your calling
A deeper sense of God’s presence right where you are

Ready to Begin?

Don’t wait for life to slow down—choose to slow your heart today.

Enter your email below to grab your free 5-Minute Reset with Jesus Guide and start experiencing the joy of walking in His peace, one moment at a time.

(It’s a beautiful one-page printable you can keep in your Bible, on the table next to your favorite cozy chair, or even post on your fridge.)

Click Here to Get Your Free Guide!

Abide in Me: Free Scripture Coloring Pages

Life is noisy, busy, and often overwhelming. Sometimes your soul just needs a simple way to pause, breathe, and rest in God’s presence.

That’s why I created the “Abide in Me” Coloring Pages—a set of 3 beautifully designed, Scripture-based pages to help you slow down and soak in the peace of Jesus. *only 2 shown here

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What You’ll Get:

• 3 Printable Scripture Coloring Pages featuring designs and encouraging Bible verses about abiding in Jesus.
• A creative way to meditate on God’s Word—coloring as you reflect on Scripture.
• A gentle tool to help you quiet your heart, release stress, and focus on Jesus in the middle of your busy day.

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Why You’ll Love It:

Encourages stillness and reflection
Brings Scripture to life in a personal, creative way
Perfect for quiet time, family devotion, or a peaceful reset during a busy week

Whether you’re looking for a moment of peace for yourself, or a fun way to share God’s Word with your children or small group, these pages are designed to help you draw near to Jesus and abide in Him.

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Ready to Rest in Him?

Don’t let the busyness of life keep you from His presence. Take a few moments to slow down, breathe, and abide in Christ with these free coloring pages.

Enter your email below to receive your free Abide in Me Coloring Set and start experiencing the joy of resting in His Word today.

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Have you ever sensed God whispering in the middle of your to-do list?

Maybe it was a nudge to text a friend, an unexpected conversation in the grocery store, or a quiet moment in the car when you suddenly felt seen and sensed God’s presence stirring your heart to listen.

I created Meeting God in the Ordinary for women like us—women who want to live on purpose, listen closely, and follow Jesus even when life feels full (and a little chaotic).

This 30-day devotional will help you:
Recognize God’s presence in everyday life
Respond to His nudges with bold faith
Love others deeply—even in small, unnoticed ways

Each day includes a short devotional, scripture, reflection question, and one simple step of obedience.

Because you don’t need to be perfect.
You just need to be present.

Ready to start your 30-day journey?
Download Meeting God in the Ordinary for just $4.99 and discover how small moments become sacred when we say yes.

 Get the Devotional Now
(Available as an instant download on my website!)

Click Here to Purchase

Watch the video for more about finding joy in the journey. It will premiere at 4 p.m. on Friday, 9.19.2025. Be sure to like, subscribe, and share with others!

Click here to watch!

The post How to Slow Down and Find Unexpected Joy in the Journey appeared first on Holly D. Murray.

Now I am saying this for your own benefit, not to put a restraint on you, but because of what is proper and so that you may be devoted to the Lord without distraction.

1 Corinthians 7:35, HCSB

What if the enemy’s greatest weapon against your calling isn’t fear or failure—it’s distraction? He doesn’t always come with a loud roar. Sometimes he sneaks in quietly—through endless scrolling, packed calendars, or whispered lies like, “Who do you think you are? Someone else is already doing it. You’ll never make a difference. You don’t have time.”

Nobody Likes Clickbait

Have you ever been on social media and seen a picture so strange you had to click? You only meant to watch the one video, but two hours later you glance at the clock and think, ugh…I’ve done it again.

Social media can be fun—full of encouragement, connection, even laughter. (Those dog voiceovers? I can’t stop laughing at them!) But it can also be one of the greatest time robbers.

My mornings usually begin with letting out the dog, making a cup of coffee, unloading the dishwasher, and then spending time with the Lord. But one morning, as I waited for the coffee to brew, I picked up my phone. I am not even certain what the clickbait message was, but before long I was scrolling through the weirdest and most impractical bathroom layouts known to man. (Who makes floor tiles that look like people waving up at you from under your stall door?)

Social media can make minutes vanish and mornings messy—
choose your scroll wisely, or your focus pays the price.

And then came that gentle nudge. You know the one. It’s the one I can ignore, but if I do, I always regret it. The Holy Spirit whispered: “You haven’t met with Me yet.”

I put my phone down and opened my Bible. Flipping the page to the day’s devotional, I read the title: “You Can Overcome Life’s Distractions.” Don’t you love it when what you’re reading hits home with impeccable, pointed timing?

I stared at the day’s title for a moment and felt convicted. It was like Holy Spirit was reminding me: time is short, distractions are plenty, and the call of God on your life is too important to trade away for clickbait.

Distraction Whispers Lies . . .

Distraction is defined as anything that keeps you from giving your full attention to something else, and distraction comes in many forms. Maybe it’s scrolling social media. Maybe it’s binge-worthy TV. Or maybe it’s unhealthy thought patterns that spiral when they’re left unchecked. Sometimes, distraction looks like the enemy’s lies:

• “Your dream doesn’t matter.”
• “It’s already been done.”
• “You don’t have what it takes.”
• “You’re too old to start something new.”
• “You’re already too busy. You don’t have the time to do it. It will take too long.”

I’ve heard those and many others, and I bet you have too. But here’s the good news: you don’t have to take the bait.

But Truth Sets Direction

The Word tells us in 1 Corinthians 10:23-24, “Everything is permissible, but not everything is helpful. Everything is permissible, but not everything builds up. No one should seek his own good, but the good of the other person” (HCSB). The terminology “Everything is permissible” was a common phrase (you see it again in 1 Corinthians 6:12), but the Apostle Paul was correcting the believers in the church. You see, even “good” things can pull us away from the best things. Sometimes they distract us from our purposes, priorities, and the call of God.

Jesus overcame the lies of the enemy with the Word of God. When you hear these whispered, overcome them by focusing on the Truth. For each lie above, I have written truth you can hold to:

• “My dreams and gifts come from God, and they have purpose.” *Jeremiah 29:11
• “God has specific people for me to help based on the unique way He created me.” *Jeremiah 1:5, Ephesians 2:10
• “God will equip me with everything I need to do what He calls me to do.” *Hebrews 13:21
• “I can use the wisdom of my years to empower those coming behind me.” *Titus 2:3-5
• “I can focus on stewarding my time well and make God’s call a priority. I will schedule what’s important.” *Ephesians 5:15-17

Distraction Loses Power when Focus Takes Over

Jennifer LeClaire wrote that to overcome distractions, you must not allow your eyes, ears, mouth, or mind to focus or take part in the distraction. She wrote, “In other words, stop thinking about them! Stop listening. Stop looking. Stop talking about them. There is tremendous power in a life focused singularly on Jesus and His will—tremendous power” (LeClaire, 2015).

And she’s right! There’s tremendous power in focus. Whatever distractions the enemy throws at you today, you have the power to overcome each one.

Stay Focused

Isaiah 26:3 says that He’ll keep you in perfect peace if you keep your mind focused on Him. Focusing on what you need to do in any given moment takes discipline and self-control. If your phone alerts you as often as mine does, the “Do Not Disturb” button will be like your best friend when it comes to choosing to live undistracted. In last week’s blog post, I talked about focus briefly. As long as Peter kept his eyes focused on Jesus, he could do the impossible! What can we do when we keep our focus on Him?

One way to help maintain our focus on Jesus and the call of God on our life, is to think on good, godly things. Philippians 4:8 tells us specifically what to think about—things that are true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable, excellent, or worthy of praise (ESV). Matthew 6:34 tells us not to worry about tomorrow. Isaiah 54:17 tells us that the Lord will protect us from every weapon formed against us, even the things other people say about us! Philippians 4:13 tells us that we can do all things because He will give us strength. And 2 Corinthians 10:5 tells us we can take our thoughts captive instead of letting them ramble without control. Our thought life can be healthy and focused on Jesus as we consider the resources we have available in the Word.

So, get your focus back! God has called you to greatness.

Every Choice Against Distraction Bears Fruit

Apostle Paul understood this. In Acts 20:24b, Paul says, “It’s more important for me to fulfill my destiny and to finish the ministry my Lord Jesus has assigned to me, which is to faithfully preach the wonderful news of God’s grace” (TPT). Jesus, in telling about His love for us and desire for us to be full of joy tells us we are His chosen ones with purpose. He says, “You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in My name the Father will give you” (John 15:16, NIV).

And don’t miss this: your calling doesn’t have to look “big” to be powerful. Maybe you aren’t called to preach, but to love and serve your family well. Maybe it’s interceding in prayer for needs no one else sees. Perhaps it’s teaching children and modeling Jesus to them daily. Or maybe it’s serving faithfully in an office where most of your work goes unseen. Others may not notice the details, but they feel the difference you make.

The hidden moments of obedience may never make headlines,
but in God’s eyes they ripple with eternal fruit.

Every act of obedience, every sacrifice no one else applauds, every moment you choose Jesus over distraction—it all bears fruit. Galatians 5:22–23 reminds us of what His Spirit produces in you: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

And the heart of it all is love. Your calling, even if you have to battle emotion and distraction, is a way to extend the love of God to others. Whether that’s through loving and serving your family well, children you teach, or your colleagues! You may even be called to write the words God has given you to encourage others or to teach a small group, but you wonder if you have what it takes. Yet if God is calling you to do it, He will equip you to do so!

You are Chosen

My friend, you have been chosen. I’ve already mentioned this verse in today’s blog, but you may need to read those words again. Jesus said:

You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last.

John 15:16, NIV

Don’t let any distraction or lie steal the truth God has placed in your heart. Whether you’re striving to stay focused at work, school, or on the dreams and goals He’s planted in you, remember: your life has divine purpose and the gifts God gave you are meant to be used for His glory. Every small step of obedience matters, and something beautiful is waiting on the other side of your faithfulness. Step forward. Say yes. Keep going.

When weariness comes, hold this close: you are not alone. The Lord who called you is faithful. Lean on His strength, let His peace steady your heart, and walk boldly, knowing His joy will carry you all the way to the finish line.

I’m cheering you on.

Hey friend,

This week, I’ve got something I can’t wait to share with you. I’ve started a YouTube channel to post video content that I hope will encourage your heart as you follow God’s directions. On the latest episode I tell a fun story about the time I wished I could walk on water!

The video goes live Friday, September 5, at 3 PM, and I’d love for you to be there. Hit subscribe and turn on notifications so you’re first in line to watch. Trust me—you won’t want to miss it!

See you there!
—Holly

Ready to step into a life full of faith, hope, and miracles? Discover how to trust God in every circumstance with Holly’s book, Believing for a Miracle, available in paperback and Kindle versions on Amazon. Let these pages inspire you to believe bigger, pray bolder, and see God move in your life!

Whether you’re seeking the courage to write down the dreams and callings God has placed on your life to help overcome distraction, or if you’re still discerning exactly what those dreams are, be sure to check out the blog post “From a Quiet Dream to a Bold Prayer: How God Meets Us in Our Deepest Longings.”

Free Gift Just for You!

12 Scripture Cards to Stay Focused on your God-Given Calling

Feeling stretched thin, distracted, or struggling to stay focused on your purpose?
You’re not alone. Life is busy—but keeping your eyes on God’s calling doesn’t have to be complicated.

That’s why I created 12 Scripture Focus Cards—a printable set designed to help you stay anchored in God’s Word, overcome distractions, and pursue the purpose He’s placed in your life.

Quick reminders. Powerful verses. A heart fixed on Jesus.

Inside this printable set, you’ll discover:
12 scripture cards about purpose, focus, and perseverance
Daily encouragement to overcome distractions and stay faithful
Gentle reminders that even small acts of obedience bear eternal fruit
Verses you can display, carry, or use in your devotional time
Inspiration to act boldly on God’s call, no matter how busy life gets

Each card is designed to give you a moment of clarity, encouragement, and renewed focus—perfect for your Bible, desk, or even your purse.

Click to get your free, instant download!

References:

LeClaire, J. (2015). Mornings with the Holy Spirit: Listening daily to the still, small voice of God. Lake Mary, FL: Charisma House Book Group.

The post The Enemy’s #1 Weapon Against Your Calling (and How to Overcome It) appeared first on Holly D. Murray.

Jesus said, “Come.” And Peter left the boat and walked on the water to Jesus.

Matthew 14:29, NCV

“Quit your job.” Three words that made my stomach lurch.
That’s not exactly how God phrased it. What He actually whispered was, “Don’t take your Keurig back to work,” and “I won’t move until you do.” Subtle words, yet they landed like dynamite in my soul.

The same weekend, a writing coach reminded me I couldn’t possibly do it all—finish my new book, keep up with my blog, create daily content, publish two clients’ books, take on new ones, and still work part-time at my church. I was burning the candle at both ends and convincing myself I could keep the flames alive forever.

But God was asking me to drop the match.

I argued. Ministry work was holy, wasn’t it? Noble? My job at the church wasn’t just a paycheck—it was serving Him, serving my pastors, and serving people I love. How could I walk away from something that felt like God’s work to step into something that felt uncertain, risky, and frankly…crazy?

I’m not a fan of uncomfortable leaps of faith. I prefer small, measured steps. In the daytime. When the grass is short and dry and I can see exactly where my foot is going to land before I shift any weight to it. That’s my level of “adventure.”

The Truth About Faith (It Always Feels Risky)

Here’s the truth I wrestled with:
Faith always sounds crazy to a cautious heart.
Faith never asks, “Is this safe?” Faith always asks, “Is this Jesus?”

When God calls us into deep places of faith, we usually find ourselves in over our heads. Sometimes in murky, moving water where our reliance is on Him alone and not on ourselves. I wish I could tell you it’s as simple as ordering office supplies online and hitting that red button when you’re done—but stepping out in faith sometimes feels uncertain, frightening, brazen.

Peter’s Story: Trusting the Voice Above the Waves

It reminds me of Peter on the Sea of Galilee. He and the other disciples were in a boat in the middle of the night. It was dark. They were exactly where Jesus told them to be. Obedient. Should have been an easy row, right?

But obeying Him wasn’t smooth sailing. They were going against the wind. It wasn’t a peaceful drift across calm waters while sipping sweet tea in one hand and holding a PB&J in the other. They were straining, rowing hard, waves crashing against the boat.

Enter Jesus, stage left, and the disciples were freaking out. I don’t blame them! Have you ever seen someone walking on the water 3-4 miles from shore? I’d have been screaming right along with them – likely before I saw Jesus. (Remember, I’m not much of an adventure-girl.)

But Jesus’ instant response to their display of fear: “Take courage! I Am! Stop being afraid!” (Matthew 14:27, AMPC).

Then the spotlight falls on Peter. He’s the brave, faith-filled one. While the rest of the disciples were likely still trembling and cowering together with their hands on the oars, Peter called out to the figure who sounded like Jesus. I mean, they’d left Jesus several miles away—He wasn’t supposed to be strolling across the lake without a boat.

When Jesus called, “Come,” Peter didn’t ask for a second opinion. He didn’t wait for the storm to stop or the water to settle. Peter didn’t throw out a bunch of fleeces. Peter stepped out on Jesus’ command.

Faith is not waiting for calm waters.

Faith is trusting His voice is enough to hold you,

even when the storm is raging.

The Risk of Faith: It’s Not Always Easy

How many times have I said, “God, if this is really Your will, have three people come to me and tell me it’s a good idea.” Who doesn’t like confirmation?

I was not as brave as Peter. I heard God tell me to step into a new season, but I was nervous. So I called my husband and told him what I felt God was directing me to do, and followed that quickly with, “But you pray about it and see what He tells you!”

That was hardly faith—it was more like tossing the hot potato of responsibility into his lap and saying, “Here, you hold it.” While having a spouse hear from God is not a poor decision (and husbands and wives need to walk in unity, agreeing on important decisions), for me it was a doubt-filled excuse to spread the risk. And how can I expect to grow in faith when I diffuse the responsibility of hearing God for myself?

Faith isn’t safe—it’s surrender

I want faith to feel easy. But faith isn’t always easy, nor is it a feeling. Faith is a choice! It wouldn’t be faith or require faith if we knew the outcome of the decision before we made it. Faith is believing something exists before we know it with our senses. Peter stepped out of the boat. The trouble came when he allowed the natural realities of his circumstances to take his focus off Jesus. And he sank. Yet even then, Jesus’ hand was right there, holding him, steadying him.

It makes me wonder—
How far could Peter have gone if he had kept his eyes on Jesus?
How many others might have stepped out too if his faith had carried him farther?

That’s the question that now burns in me. How far might I go if I don’t stop looking at Him?

I’ve often heard my pastors say, “Start in faith, stay in faith, and finish in faith.” That is my desire. I want to step out in faith and never let my faith in Jesus’ commands waver as I keep my eyes on Him and finish the calling He placed in me.

So I quit my job. Not because I stopped loving the church, but because Jesus whispered, “Step out of the boat. Trust Me.”

Finding Peace in the Unknown

It hasn’t been easy. The enemy loves to whisper “what ifs” and tempt me with backup plans. But when I turn my eyes to Jesus, His words anchor me:
“Keep your eyes on Me. Trust Me. Do not doubt. I will be faithful. I Am completely trustworthy.”

And when my heart wants to panic, His peace rushes in.

Scripture promises:
“You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in You, all whose thoughts are fixed on You! Trust in the Lord always, for the Lord God is the eternal Rock” (Isaiah 26:3-4, NLT).

Peace isn’t found in certainty; peace is found in surrender.

What is Jesus Calling You to Do?

I don’t know what Jesus is calling you to do today. Maybe it’s not quitting a job, but it might feel just as terrifying. Maybe He’s asking you to forgive, to let go, say yes, or step out.

Whatever it is, know this:

Faith will always feel like a risk, but it is the safest place when Jesus is the One calling you.

So, what is He whispering to you?
What boat are you clinging to that He’s asking you to step out of?

Sweet friend, don’t let fear be louder than His voice. You don’t need to see the whole path—you only need to see the One standing on the water saying, “Come.”

Take the step. Keep your eyes on Him. And just like Peter, you’ll discover that even if you start to sink, His hand will always be there to hold you.

He’s calling you, saying, “Keep going. Keep walking. I’m with you all the way.” The question isn’t whether He’ll be there—it’s whether you’ll take that first trembling step.

For more about faith and believing for the impossible, get Holly’s book, Believing for a Miracle available in paperback and Kindle versions on Amazon.

5 Simple Faith Steps for a Peace-Filled Day

Because even on the busiest days, you can still walk in peace with Jesus.


Feeling stretched thin, distracted, or spiritually “running on empty”?
You’re not alone. Life is busy—but your time with God doesn’t have to be complicated.

That’s why I created 5 Simple Faith Steps—a one-page guide designed to help you draw close to God in the middle of your everyday life.

Inside this printable, you’ll discover:
1 verse to start your day with focus and faith
A simple prayer practice you can do in seconds
A gratitude rhythm that shifts your perspective
How to act on God’s nudges with courage
A nighttime surrender that helps you rest in peace

Each step takes less than 2 minutes—but can completely change how you experience your day.

Get your free guide today!

 Quick rhythms. Simple prayers. A heart anchored in Jesus. 

Just drop your email below, and I’ll send 5 Simple Faith Steps for a Peace-Filled Day straight to your inbox.

(It’s a beautiful one-page printable you can keep in your Bible, post on your fridge, or even save on your phone as a daily reminder. Multiple background options.)

Click Here to Get Your Free Guide!

Have you ever stood at a crossroads in life and thought, “God, I don’t know what to do?” Maybe you’ve whispered prayers through tears, or felt like your faith was flickering instead of blazing. If so, you’re not alone—and more importantly, you’re not failing. You’re human. And faith isn’t about feelings. It’s a decision to keep trusting God anyway.

Life comes with a lot of shifting ground—aging parents, adult children, health challenges, relationship changes, and questions about your purpose in this season. Sometimes the fog is thick, and the path ahead feels invisible. But here’s the good news:

God doesn’t need your perfection. He just wants your trust.

That’s why I created this 7-Day Printable Devotional Set.

“Walking by Faith, Not by Feelings”
A Scripture-rich, peace-centered guide to help you trust God when life feels uncertain.

These 5×7 printable cards are designed to be both beautiful and biblical—something you’ll want to frame, keep in your Bible, or tape to your mirror.

Each printable includes:
A powerful daily Scripture
A short, encouraging reflection
A heartfelt prayer
A simple, actionable faith step

Whether you read one each morning with your coffee, tuck them into your purse, or bundle them as a gift to a friend, these devotionals are meant to strengthen your faith—right where you are.

Ready to walk by faith—even on the foggy days?

Download your FREE 7-Day Devotional Card Set now!

Download Free

Have you ever sensed God whispering in the middle of your to-do list?

Maybe it was a nudge to text a friend, an unexpected conversation in the grocery store, or a quiet moment in the car when you suddenly felt seen and sensed God’s presence stirring your heart to listen.

I created Meeting God in the Ordinary for women like us—women who want to live on purpose, listen closely, and follow Jesus even when life feels full (and a little chaotic).

This 30-day devotional will help you:
Recognize God’s presence in everyday life
Respond to His nudges with bold faith
Love others deeply—even in small, unnoticed ways

Each day includes a short devotional, scripture, reflection question, and one simple step of obedience.

Because you don’t need to be perfect.
You just need to be present.

Ready to start your 30-day journey?
Download Meeting God in the Ordinary for just $4.99 and discover how small moments become sacred when we say yes.

 Get the Devotional Now
(Available as an instant download on my website!)

Click Here to Purchase

The post Faith that Feels Crazy: Finding Peace When Obedience Doesn’t Make Sense. appeared first on Holly D. Murray.

And if you leave God’s paths and go astray, you will hear a voice behind you say, “No, this is the way; walk here.”

Isaiah 30:21, TLB

I have always loved reading. Books have felt like good friends for as long as I can remember. My mom was the librarian at the elementary school I attended, so while the after-school kids were swinging on monkey bars, I curled up beneath the shelves in the library, completely immersed in stories.

I still remember getting in trouble in sixth grade for sneaking a novel under my history book during class. I slid the bottom edge of my book slightly forward so I could finish the chapter I’d been reading between classes—too hooked to wait. The story had completely captured my attention, and I was blissfully unaware of the classroom noise and rather droning, nasal tone of my teacher, until everything fell strangely quiet. When I looked up, my teacher’s eyes were boring a hole straight through me. I was busted. Red-faced and feeling about the size of a gnat, I folded the book and slid it into my bookbag. I don’t think I ever did that again…but really—history? Bleh.

Even after that embarrassing moment, my love for stories never changed. I could read the same book more than once and love it just as much the second—or fifth—time. Series were my favorite. I’d get to know the characters and walk through several adventures with them like trusted companions. But one kind of book was very interesting to me: the choose-your-own-adventure kind. Do you remember those? At the end of certain chapters, you’d make a decision—turn to page 72 to enter the forest, or page 81 to stay in the village. Every choice shaped the story and led to a different conclusion.

Let God Guide Your Story

And this morning, as I remembered those old favorites, I realized something: life is a lot like that. In life, there are turns with every choice.

Every day, we face countless decisions—what to say, how to respond, what to pursue, who to forgive, whether to trust. Life is a winding adventure, and no two paths look quite the same. But unlike a book, we don’t get to peek ahead at how things will turn out. When we look to the Lord to lead us, however, each page in our story becomes written, not by chance, but by trust in the One who knows the ending and the best turn to make every step along the way.

That’s why faith matters so much. And here’s the thing I’ve learned, especially in the years when life hasn’t gone “according to plan”:

Faith isn’t a feeling. It’s a decision.

Faith is deciding to believe something before you can see it while being convinced of its reality. Hebrews 11:1 defines faith, “Now faith is the assurance (title deed, confirmation) of things hoped for (divinely guaranteed), and the evidence of things not seen [the conviction of their reality—faith comprehends as fact what cannot be experienced by the physical senses]”(AMP). It’s not believing for something after you have it. There’s no faith needed for that. It’s believing you have it before you can see it, touch it, or hear it. It’s knowing that the thing you’re believing for is God’s will because it’s in His Word or matching with His good, loving character and that you will have that thing in your possession in the natural (experienced with your five senses) in God’s perfect timing.

Faith That Leaves a Legacy: What Hebrews 11:2 Teaches Us

Verse two of Hebrews 11 says, “For by [faith—trust and holy fervor born of faith] the men of old had divine testimony borne to them and obtained a good report” (AMPC). The transliteration of the phrase “obtained a good report” here is the word martyreo, which means “to be a witness, to bear witness, i.e. to affirm that one has seen or heard or experienced something, or that he knows it because taught by divine revelation or inspiration. To give (not to keep back) testimony.”[1]

You can’t bear witness to something you don’t have or haven’t experienced, and it was by their faith that godly testimony was born to them. Their faith caused the good report to be obtained. It caused them to obtain the promise of God. It gave them the content of their testimony, and because of their persistence in faith, they left a legacy that outlived them.

So how do you get the faith to believe for things you don’t have as though you already do? The Word tells us in Romans 10:17 that faith comes by hearing the Word of God (paraphrase). The Message version reads:

Choosing Faith Over Feelings

Reading and hearing God’s Word—reading it for yourself and hearing the truth of God’s Word preached—that is how your faith, trust in God, and confidence in His Word grows. It’s not about waiting to feel brave or confident or certain—it’s about choosing to trust even when the way is dim. It’s waking up and saying, “Lord, I choose You today. I choose to believe Your Word. I choose to rely on You and to trust You.” Even when your heart feels unsure or heavy. Even when you can’t understand how you will ever possess the promises for which you are believing.

Isaiah 30:21 says,
“Your own ears will hear Him. Right behind you a voice will say, ‘This is the way you should go,’ whether to the right or to the left” (NLT).

I love this verse. There are others I hear more often that remind us to trust God. A sweet friend recently told me she leans heavily on Proverbs 3:5-6 when she isn’t sure which direction she should pursue. This verse reminds me, however, that God is not only trustworthy, but wanting to tell us the path of life to choose. I don’t have to guess, I just have to listen. I don’t always know what to do—but I know who to listen for.

How to Hear God’s Voice in the Noise of Everyday Life

The question is, how do we make the most out of our faith-filled adventure-life? As a believer, the best way is to invite the Lord to lead you throughout the day, intentionally listening for His voice! I often pray, “God, give me big ears in the Spirit”—ears that hear His whispers clearly. I say, “Lord, help me be quick to hear and quick to obey.” Because let’s be honest—some days are noisy. Some seasons feel foggy. But whether there is quiet or chaos, God speaks.

And I don’t always get it right. But Isaiah 30:18 reminds us:
“Therefore the Lord waits [expectantly] and longs to be gracious to you, and therefore He waits on high to have compassion on you. For the Lord is a God of justice; blessed (happy, fortunate) are all those who long for Him [since He will never fail them]” (AMP).

A portion of that verse in The Living Bible reads, “For the Lord is faithful to His promises” (Isaiah 30:18b).

What a tender image: our God, waiting eagerly to guide us—to give us the directions we need to make every correct choice, and longing to show us compassion when we miss it or disobey His nudges. He’s not pacing Heaven impatiently, ready to punish us for the wrong turns. He’s leaning toward us, gently offering direction, grace, and unfailing love.

So if today feels uncertain—if your heart is tired from trying to make the “right” choice or you’re standing at a crossroads wondering which way to go—remember this:

You are not alone on the page you’re living.

God is not distant, waiting for you to figure it all out. He is near—whispering, guiding, gently pointing the way. You don’t have to feel spiritual fireworks to walk by faith. Just choose Him. One step, one whispered prayer, one act of obedience at a time. And when you take those steps in faith (even the unsteady ones) it pleases God. Hebrews 11:6 says, “But without faith it is impossible to please Him: for he that cometh to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him” (KJV). Pursue God. Get in His Word so you can know Him, know His will for your life, and know for what you can believe. It pleases Him for you to walk in faith, and there is a reward for your diligent pursuit of Him.

Let God Write Your Story: You Can Trust Him With the Unknown

The life you’re living really is a choose-your-own-adventure. But when you invite God to lead, the pages unfold with peace, even in the unknown.

So remember:

• You don’t need perfect clarity to take the next step.
• You don’t need to feel brave to walk in faith.
• You just need to choose Him.

One whispered prayer.
One quiet yes.
One small step in His direction.

And that step—however wobbly—is precious to Him.

You may not know what tomorrow holds, but you can trust the One who holds the pen. This life really is a choose-your-own-adventure—but when you place your story in God’s hands, every chapter, every detour, and even every delay is woven in with purpose and peace.

So lean in.
Listen close.
He’s speaking.

And the next page?
It just might be the beginning of something beautiful.

Your next faith-filled adventure might be right around the corner. You get to choose—
But you don’t have to choose alone.

[i] G3140 – martyreo – Strong’s Greek Lexicon (KJV). Retrieved from https://www.blueletterbible.org/lexicon/g3140/kjv/tr/0-1/

Have you ever stood at a crossroads in life and thought, “God, I don’t know what to do?” Maybe you’ve whispered prayers through tears, or felt like your faith was flickering instead of blazing. If so, you’re not alone—and more importantly, you’re not failing. You’re human. And faith isn’t about feelings. It’s a decision to keep trusting God anyway.

Life comes with a lot of shifting ground—aging parents, adult children, health challenges, relationship changes, and questions about your purpose in this season. Sometimes the fog is thick, and the path ahead feels invisible. But here’s the good news:

God doesn’t need your perfection. He just wants your trust.

That’s why I created this 7-Day Printable Devotional Set.

“Walking by Faith, Not by Feelings”
A Scripture-rich, peace-centered guide to help you trust God when life feels uncertain.

These 5×7 printable cards are designed to be both beautiful and biblical—something you’ll want to frame, keep in your Bible, or tape to your mirror.

Each printable includes:
A powerful daily Scripture
A short, encouraging reflection
A heartfelt prayer
A simple, actionable faith step

Whether you read one each morning with your coffee, tuck them into your purse, or bundle them as a gift to a friend, these devotionals are meant to strengthen your faith—right where you are.

Ready to walk by faith—even on the foggy days?

Download your FREE 7-Day Devotional Card Set now!

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Have you ever sensed God whispering in the middle of your to-do list?

Maybe it was a nudge to text a friend, an unexpected conversation in the grocery store, or a quiet moment in the car when you suddenly felt seen and sensed God’s presence stirring your heart to listen.

I created Meeting God in the Ordinary for women like us—women who want to live on purpose, listen closely, and follow Jesus even when life feels full (and a little chaotic).

This 30-day devotional will help you:
Recognize God’s presence in everyday life
Respond to His nudges with bold faith
Love others deeply—even in small, unnoticed ways

Each day includes a short devotional, scripture, reflection question, and one simple step of obedience.

Because you don’t need to be perfect.
You just need to be present.

Ready to start your 30-day journey?
Download Meeting God in the Ordinary for just $4.99 and discover how small moments become sacred when we say yes.

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The post Faith Isn’t a Feeling—It’s a Choice: Trusting God One Step at a Time appeared first on Holly D. Murray.

In order that you may not grow disinterested and become [spiritual] sluggards, but imitators, behaving as do those who through faith (by their leaning of the entire personality on God in Christ in absolute trust and confidence in His power, wisdom, and goodness) and by practice of patient endurance and waiting are [now] inheriting the promises.

Hebrews 6:12, AMPC

I love to laugh. In fact, if you visit my church, you’ll probably hear me before you see me. I’m that person who laughs a little too loudly at the pastor’s quirky sayings—unapologetically. I suppose I could be more refined, but I cherish the freedom of unrestrained joy. Give me a clever line or a funny moment, and I can’t seem to help myself.

I still remember most of the lyrics from the scene in Mary Poppins with Uncle Albert floating around the ceiling in a fit of giggles. Like Uncle Albert, I’m no “squeakeler” either. Mine’s more of a full-on, throw-your-head-back kind of laugh. And while I could probably be more lady-like about it, I just love not holding back the full joy I get from comments I find hysterical.

Joy-Filled Laughter

I think God understands this about me and approves. The Bible talks about the benefits of being full of joy. Proverbs 17:22 (NKJV) says, “A merry heart does good, like medicine,” and Psalms 126:2 paints a beautiful picture of joy:

Then were our mouths filled with laughter and our tongues with singing. Then they said among the nations, the Lord has done great things for them.

Psalms 126:2, AMPC

Laughter has power. It lifts heavy hearts. It helps us breathe again when life feels tight around the edges. Laughter reminds us that joy still exists—even in the hard seasons.

But not all laughter is rooted in joy.

Hope for Dreams that Feel Impossible

Have you ever laughed at something—not because it was funny—but because it felt too impossible to believe?

Sarah did.

In Genesis 18, God told Abraham that his wife, decades past childbearing years, would give birth to a son. Sarah heard it and laughed—not with joy, but with disbelief. She laughed quietly to herself, perhaps with the ache of someone who’s long given up hope. She wasn’t scoffing at God maliciously; she just couldn’t imagine such a thing being true. Quiet, hidden doubt wrapped in a chuckle.

At her age, pregnancy was unthinkable. And honestly, I get it. I’m over halfway to Sarah’s age, and the thought of baby-proofing a house or carrying a diaper bag again sounds exhausting. But this wasn’t just a random hope for Sarah. It was a promise from God, one she and Abraham waited on for 25 years.[1] They waited so long, in fact, that Abraham tried to force the promise on his own—leading to heartbreak and complications that outlived them both.

Abraham’s name meant he was the father of multitudes. Genesis 17:5 says, “No longer will your name be called Abram, but your name will be Abraham, for I have made you the father of a multitude of nations” (MEV). Can you imagine the laughingstock Abraham might have been to his neighbors—that his very name meant he was a father of many, yet he wasn’t even a father of one?

I’ve had seasons like that too—when what I was believing for seemed laughably out of reach. Where trusting God with my dream felt harder than letting it die.

Trusting God with the Deepest Desires of Your Heart

Years ago, my husband and I were living in a home we didn’t own on land that wasn’t ours, with no foreseeable way to change any of it. We couldn’t sell it. We couldn’t leave it. And we certainly couldn’t claim it. We were stuck—physically and emotionally.

And while I tried to be content, deep down I longed for more—a home of our own. A place where we could welcome guests, host family, and breathe a little deeper.

But the dream felt laughable.

And maybe you know that feeling, too.

Maybe you’ve silenced your own longing, told yourself it’s unrealistic, selfish to keep praying for, or that it’s just “not meant to be.”
But what if… it still is?

What if God hasn’t forgotten?

Here’s what God taught me in that season:
He sees the desires of our hearts—not as silly or selfish—but as sacred.

Standing on God’s Promises When Nothing Makes Sense

If it matters to you, it matters to Him. Not because He gives us everything we want, but because He delights in placing dreams in us—and walking with us as they grow.

So I got specific with God. I wrote the desires of my heart, and beside each one, I wrote a verse of Scripture. Not to manipulate God into doing what I wanted, but to anchor my faith in something stronger than circumstances. I wanted to pray with confidence and hope. I wanted to remind myself that I wasn’t crazy for still believing. It wasn’t selfish to want something more or something different.

It didn’t happen overnight. But I didn’t wait as long as Sarah did, either.

And eventually, like Sarah, I held my promise in my hands.

There is an old saying, “He who laughs last, laughs best.” Sarah had laughed at God’s renewed promise of a child. But she had the best laugh—the kind that bubbles up from gratitude, awe, and wonder—when she was holding her son. She laughed the kind of laugh that replaces doubt with delight.

In Genesis 21, Sarah says something so beautiful:

“God has made me laugh, and everyone who hears will laugh with me.”

Genesis 21:6, CSB

Not at her. With her. This is the laugh of joyful, long-awaited victory; the laugh shared by those who have been believing with and praying for you.

Sweet friend, what’s the dream that still lives quietly in your heart?
Does it feel too impossible to even hope for anymore? Don’t label it as too late. And don’t believe the lie that you’re too old, too far gone, or too forgotten.

God sees you. He knows the deep desires of your heart. And the God who made Sarah laugh hasn’t changed. He’s still in the business of fulfilling promises.

When You Finally Hold the Promise in Your Hands

Maybe you’ve told yourself it’s “just not meant to be.” But what if—just like Sarah, just like me—it is meant to be, only on God’s timetable, not yours?

If that desire aligns with God’s Word… if it reflects His character and draws you closer to His heart… then don’t bury it. Don’t mock it. Don’t laugh it off.

Write it down. Find scripture to anchor it. Pray with boldness.
And live with expectancy.

Because when the promise is finally fulfilled, your laughter will ring with joy—not the kind that mocks what once seemed impossible, but the kind that celebrates a God who never forgets what He promised. Your laughter—real, deep, joyful laughter—may be closer than you think.

And believe me… that kind of laughter is worth the wait.

Still Believing God for a Dream That Feels Out of Reach? This Free Prayer Journal Is for You.

Maybe it’s a dream you’ve carried quietly for years.
Maybe life got in the way, and it’s been buried under responsibilities, disappointment, or time.
Maybe you’ve even stopped talking about it—because it feels too far gone, too big, or too late.

But what if God placed that dream in your heart for a reason?

If you’re believing God for something deeply personal—a calling, a breakthrough, a promise—this free Prayer Journal will help you bring it back to Him with renewed faith and hope.

Inside this four-page printable journal, you’ll find space to:

Name your God-given desire with honesty and courage
Anchor your dream to Scripture and truth
Write heartfelt prayers and listen for God’s voice
Practice daily gratitude in the middle of the waiting
Reflect on what God is doing behind the scenes

This isn’t about chasing every whim—it’s about walking in step with the dreams God has planted in you, and trusting Him to bring them to life in His way and His time.

Download your free copy today and start praying with purpose.

Because your dream matters to God—and He hasn’t forgotten.

[1] Warren W. Wiersbe, Abraham and Sarah: Faith and the Promise (Genesis 21:1–7), Wiersbe BE Bible Study Series, Bible Gateway, accessed July 10, 2025, https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/wiersbe-be-bible-study/abraham-sarah-faith-promise-21-1-7.

The post When the Dream Feels Too Far Gone appeared first on Holly D. Murray.

Let everything you do be done in love (true love to God and man as inspired by God’s love for us).

1 Corinthians 16:14, AMPC

I recently visited a newly opened coffee shop with my friend, Sara, and while glancing toward the street, I noticed a beautiful lady walking rapidly toward the entrance. My eyes lit as I recognized a sweet friend, and I stood to greet her. Before I scarcely spoke her name, she walked into my arms, saying she’d seen me through the window and needed a hug. Surprised, I listened, my arms surrounding her, as she explained what she was going through at that moment.

My friend and I prayed for her and the situation she was facing, and I reached out to someone who could offer further help. After she left, I sat in awe of what had just happened. Sara said, “We were abiding at the right place at the right time. While we were here longer than we’d planned, there was a purpose for it. There is power in tarrying in the places to which God has called you.”

Finding the Margin in the Ordinary

Sara’s words have been echoing in my heart since she spoke them. That morning, I had every intention of focusing on writing in the coffee shop for an hour—two, tops. My days are usually packed: managing a home, taking care of my family, juggling work, and trying to nurture friendships in between. Like many women I know, I lean on my calendar and to-do list to stay afloat.

What if Ordinary Moments Become Extraordinary?

But in the middle of the hustle, I forget—God doesn’t need an open time slot to show up. God meets us in the ordinary moments. He just needs an open spirit to yield to what He brings our way. That day, He met me in a completely ordinary, unplanned moment and reminded me through the words of my friend: the sacred can slip into our lives when we least expect it making ordinary moments extraordinary. We just have to pause long enough to see it.

The real question is—am I looking for the open doors God places in front of me?

Nailing the Opportunities

I think back to a quiet afternoon at the nail salon, where I met Jane. We were seated in neighboring pedicure chairs—just two women who, at first glance, couldn’t have looked more different. I was unwinding, my feet soaking after a long week. Jane sat beside me, getting her glittery polish removed. “Sparkle’s my favorite color,” I said with a smile, pointing to her shimmering nails. That tiny comment opened the door to something so much deeper.

We were strangers. We were different ages with different backgrounds and different stories. But that day, God used our proximity for purpose. He didn’t need us to have everything in common—He just needed us to be present and willing to listen to His gentle nudges.

Simply Extraordinary Moments

Jane was removing her polish to prepare for surgery—cancer had returned after years of remission. As she spoke, I listened—really listened. She didn’t know how well I understood what she was facing. When she finished, I shared a piece of my story—about my son Caleb, diagnosed with a rare bone cancer at age eleven. I told her about the heartbreak, the prayers, and the miracle of his healing.

Her eyes softened. She told me her church was already praying, that she had called her pastor the moment after she broke the news to her husband. I told her I’d pray too—and then I did something that felt risky but right. I asked if I could pray with her. She looked a little surprised, but nodded.

So right there, in a corner of a busy salon, I reached across the space between our chairs, took her hand in mine, and prayed with the faith of a mama who’s walked through the fire. I spoke healing over her body—the same words I had declared over my son all those years ago.

God Meets Us in the Ordinary

And here’s what I believe with every fiber of my being: the moment Jane called out to God, He was already moving. But maybe that afternoon, He just wanted to remind her—and me—that He hears. He sees. God meets us in the ordinary, unexpected places, even with wet toes and glittery polish.

This is the [remarkable degree of] confidence we [as believers are entitled to] have before Him: that if we ask anything according to His will, [that is, consistent with His plan and purpose] He hears us. And if we know [for a fact, as indeed we do] that He hears and listens to us in whatever we ask, we [also] know [with settled and absolute knowledge] that we have [granted to us] the requests which we have asked from Him.

1 John 14-15, AMP

Ordinary Invitations

These experiences continue to stir something in me-a gentle challenge to pay attention-to be intentional, present. God’s invitations often come wrapped in the ordinary: a smile across the aisle, a kind word at checkout, a nudge to send a card or check on someone you haven’t seen in a while. Opportunities to love like Jesus don’t have to be big or expensive. More often than not, they’re quiet, simple, and easily missed if we’re rushing through our over-scheduled day.

Simple Responses Yield Great Harvests

A pastor at church talked about how simple kindness draws people to Jesus. It might be your words, prayers, or an act of kindness that opens a door to plant a seed about how much Jesus loves them, or even opens a door to you leading them in accepting Jesus as Savior. He said it is your obedience to do what God tells you to do that makes you successful.

We don’t always get to see the harvest. But when we offer a word of hope, pray with someone in need, or serve in a way that seems small, we are planting seeds that heaven sees. We are only responsible for the part God calls us to do, and He will be with us when we are walking in uncharted territory.

“I have planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase.

1 Corinthians 3:6, MEV

Saying the Simple Yes

Every time we pause to ask, “Lord, what would You have me do right here, right now?”—we step into something holy. We join in what God is already doing. God meets us in the ordinary, everyday moments, but we must be ready to meet Him, too. Sometimes that means adjusting our schedules, lingering longer than planned, or speaking truth into someone’s weary heart. It may even feel inconvenient in the moment, but obedience rarely comes with perfect timing—it comes with purpose.

The beauty is, God isn’t asking us to figure it all out. He’s simply asking us to listen and respond. And when we do, even the smallest act of love becomes part of something eternal.

Because in the end, obedience may sound complicated—but love is simple. And God uses simple love to change lives.

Do you desire to be more intentional in your walk with God? Being obedient starts with noticing how God is moving in the ordinary moments of your day.

Download this 5 Day Devotional, “Meeting God in the Ordinary.” It is a FREE GIFT that I hope will bless your life as you plan to be more intentional in those unplanned moments.

If you haven’t gotten a copy of my book, Believing for a Miracle, take a moment to check it out!

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Beautiful story of miraculous healing. The book is filled with scripture references and tremendous encouragement while writer shares heart felt real life situations involved with the illness and ultimate healing of her son. I highly recommend not only reading this book but sharing the story of hope that it wonderfully describes. – Verified Customer

A powerful testimony of faith & healing from a family believing for their miracle. If you find yourself waiting for a miracle, this book will build up your faith and equip you with the Word of God to give you what you need to lean in & believe. If you need a miracle, (and don’t we all?), you need this book in your arsenal.
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The post How God Uses a Simple Yes: Finding God in the Margins of Your To-Do List appeared first on Holly D. Murray.