Something in us is wired to believe it’s just easier to do it alone — if we handle it ourselves and mess up, at least there’s no one else to blame. But that instinct usually lands in one of two dangerous places: “I don’t need anyone,” or “I’m too ashamed to tell anyone.”
In this week’s devotional, Valarie continues the August series with an honest look at why growth becomes so difficult when we isolate. Even Jesus sent the disciples out two by two — because each carried their own strengths, and when one foot slipped, the other could pull them back from the ledge. Without encouragement, accountability, and people who pray with us, it’s easy to drift spiritually without even noticing. We weren’t made to be the Lone Ranger; even God, the Master Creator, desires connection and collaboration, because we were created to belong. And sometimes family isn’t blood — it’s the people who love and embrace us right where we are. She points to Peter, devastated after denying Christ, whose community made his healing lighter and helped restore him into the leader God called him to be. Anchored in Hebrews 10:24-25, she reminds us that sometimes we won’t have the strength or even the words to pray for ourselves — and that’s exactly when someone to sit with us, comfort us, and pray over us becomes vital, because the fervent prayers of the righteous avail much. She leaves us with a question worth answering honestly: who are the people in your community, and are you letting them speak life into you while you do the same for them?
Have you ever felt like you’re carrying a weight that never seems to get lighter? Join Valarie for a special online webinar — When Life Feels Heavy: Finding Peace, Hope, and Strength Through Prayer — on Sunday, August 16th at 5 p.m. Pacific Standard Time. Together we’ll discover how prayer can become more than a response to life’s challenges — a lifestyle that anchors your heart, renews your hope, and gives you strength to face each day with confidence. You’ll learn how to find peace even when circumstances haven’t changed, overcome the obstacles that keep you from consistent prayer, and experience how prayer renews your perspective. Seats are limited and registration closes once they’re filled, so reserve yours by searching “When Life Feels Heavy: Finding Peace, Hope, and Strength Through Prayer” on Eventbrite.
If this series has encouraged you, share it with someone and strengthen them in community — and until next time, keep meeting God at the throne.
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