Morning Devotional 101825 Persevere, A New Day is Coming

Liz’s Morning Devotional: Scripture selected from Upper Room

October 18, 2025 

Psalm 42:1-5

1 Just like a deer that craves streams of water, my whole being craves you, God. 2 My whole being thirsts for God, for the living God. When will I come and see God’s face? 3 My tears have been my food both day and night, as people constantly questioned me, “Where’s your God now?” 4 But I remember these things as I bare my soul: how I made my way to the mighty one’s abode, to God’s own house, with joyous shouts and thanksgiving songs, a huge crowd celebrating the festival! 5 Why, I ask myself, are you so depressed? Why are you so upset inside? Hope in God! Because I will again give him thanks, my saving presence and my God. 

Good Morning! Even in our darkest moments, God is with us!

In all things, give thanks! It is easy to say, but harder to do. 

When things are not going as I expect or hope, my first instinct is to try to find someone else to blame. In my head, I replay the conversation leading to my discontent over and over as I look for where things fell apart. Sometimes, it seems that my button gets stuck, and I have to fight to free myself from the hold of the mess stewing in my brain.

When I run out of others to blame, I turn back to myself and try to accept responsibility for the situation. I like focusing on my strengths, so when forced to admit my weaknesses or vulnerabilities, I struggle. 

Because I have seen God lead me through challenges in the past, I believe that by God’s grace, I will find my way out of the situation. I am admittedly passionate about everything I do. This passion allows me to work as hard as I do to endure and overcome my challenges, confidently entering each day with hope in the possibilities that God places before me. 

It is hard to thank God for our struggles, but I know that each challenge presents an opportunity to grow in faith and strength. This morning, I boldly thank God for today and whatever challenges are placed on my path. 

Hope in God! Because I will again give him thanks, my saving presence and my God. 

Loving Lord, you bless us abundantly! Thank you for our struggles. Without them, we would not learn how to persevere. Thank you. We love you, Lord! In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen

Thought for the day: In all things, give thanks to God!

Hope leads us forward. Pastor Liz