Encouragement Archives

Beth Pottle (back row, second from left) competed in the Ragnar Los Coyotes trail relay race in California. The annual race is a grueling 24-hour relay through the rugged, beautiful Los Coyotes Indian Reservation near San Diego. Credit: courtesy Beth Pottle

The Bible Verse Text That Gave Her Strength

By Beth Pottle5 min read

She traveled to a remote area with no reception to compete in relay race—did she have the willpower to finish?

Woman reading a spring book while lying on a blanket outside

12 Uplifting Spring Books and Devotionals

By Kaylin Kaupish4 min read

Dive into the spring season with these inspiring books and devotionals—many of them on sale!

Woman sits in a garden with her eyes closed thinking about how to do lent

How to Observe Lent in a Different Way This Year

By Bob Hostetler4 min read

4 ways to shift the focus of your prayers and spiritual practices

Louis Armstrong playing inspirational music on his trumpet for Black History Month

12 Uplifting Songs from Inspiring Black Musicians

By Ashley Lateef3 min read

Talented Black artists have transformed genres like rock, jazz, soul and gospel⁠⁠. Here are 12 favorites who have revolutionized music worldwide.

Young mom exercising at home with toddler daughter; Getty Images

Why New Parents Should Make Exercise a Habit

By The Editors4 min read

Whether you go to the gym or incorporate workouts into your daily routine, exercising has many benefits.

Soar with the Eagles

But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.—Isaiah 40:31 (NIV)

How to Make Encouragement a Habit

By Holly Lebowitz Rossi2 min read

Create a sacred space for whatever you do by offering encouraging and supportive language to those around you.

A woman gazes contentedly out at the ocean

See God’s Hand

You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.—Genesis 50:20 (NIV)

Spectators cheering on a marathon runner

Choose Compassion

For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.—Romans 3:23 (NIV)

Jeanette Levellie composes a handwritten note of thanks; photo by Matthew Gilson

She Expresses Gratitude All Year Round in Heartfelt Notes

By Jeanette Levellie6 min read

It started at Thanksgiving. Now she frequently sends family and friends letters of praise, thanks and encouragement.

Encouraging Words to Help You Release Fear

By Holly Lebowitz Rossi2 min read

A poem that models the complex yet powerful process of letting go of challenging feelings.

5 Prayers to Help You Transition to a New Season

By Bob Hostetler4 min read

Whether it’s the arrival of autumn or a change in your life, this Scripture will usher you through it.