Resting in His Presence

Written By Laura Cooley

November 2024 Devotional
Finding Renewal in God’s Unfailing Love

Let me hear of your unfailing love each morning, for I am trusting you. Show me where to walk, for I give myself to you. – Psalm 143:8 (NLT)

Have you ever felt inadequate or as if you're just going through the motions of prayer and Bible study? It's important to remember that God is in the process of lifting our feelings of inadequacy at this very moment. He values our efforts and calls our hearts daily to remind us of our worth.  Fruitful activity flows from the heart, not just by actions alone but by resting in His presence. Take some time with God to examine your heart. Allow him to revitalize you and give you a moment's rest from the busyness of life.

People may be right in their own eyes, but the LORD examines their heart. The LORD is more pleased when we do what is right and just than when we offer him sacrifices. – Proverbs 21:2-3 (NLT)

I fall into this space more often than I'd like to admit and can even find myself saying, "If I love Jesus, then how is it possible for me to go so long without engaging in meaningful connection and conversation?" Although examining the heart and repenting is healthy, continuous guilt-tripping is not. I'm grateful the Lord reminds me that my soul does indeed yearn for Him. I am not fully at peace without intimacy, and I miss Him when we haven't met in a while. Jesus doesn't guilt-trip; he pulls us close and hugs us, directing us to God.

Feeling listless is a common experience, but here's the good news-there are practical tips that can help you overcome this! Here are some tips to empower you in your spiritual journey.

1. Read scripture slowly and reflectively rather than speed reading. 

2. Pause and reflect on what is said so the scripture can resonate.

3. Open your heart and mind to the Holy Spirit's guidance and peace.

4. Find a healthy balance of speaking and listening during prayer

Additional Reading: John 14:27, John 15:5, John 16:27, 2 Corinthians 3:5, and 1 Peter 5:7

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Laura Cooley

Laura Cooley has relied on Jesus from an early age. She identifies as lesbian and holds the traditional Biblical view of marriage. After growing up in the Bible Belt of Southern Mississippi, she has now lived in NYC for 6 years, serves as admin for Revoice. Before relocating to NYC in the pursuit of acting, she was both a special education teacher and administrative department head. Laura feels the Lord prepared her way to NYC, allowing her to pursue her creative passions while also granting her meaningful ministry roles. She is excited to share the love of Jesus with the unique tools Revoice has to offer and also through her film roles. Laura gives all praise to the Lord for being our Good Father.

”Through my writing, I hope to give readers peace and encouragement to keep fighting, even when they feel like they are losing. The Lord’s mercies are new every morning, and I want that truth to resonate with anyone who reads my words.” — Laura

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