Words have the power to build or to break. Someone can say one kind thing and we may forget it by evening — but a single harsh word can keep us up all night, replaying it. In a fast-paced world where criticism is common and genuine encouragement is rare, your words carry more weight than you know.
In today’s prayer, Valarie opens with heartfelt gratitude for the listeners who’ve trusted her with their prayer needs, then turns the focus outward: you never know who is silently carrying a burden or quietly questioning whether they have the strength to keep going. Some people are vocal about their struggles; many simmer with them alone. And one encouraging word, one thoughtful message, one sincere prayer can become God’s reminder that they are not alone. Anchored in 1 Thessalonians 5:11 — “encourage one another and build each other up” — and the truth that death and life are in the power of the tongue, she reminds us that we create as we speak, so we should speak life over ourselves and others. She prays that God would make us people who strengthen others, opening our eyes to the discouraged and overlooked, letting our conversations reflect His kindness and our prayers His compassion. Her challenge for the day is simple: ask God to place one person on your heart who needs encouragement — then act on it.
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 today’s prayer encouraged you, share it and invite someone into the prayer community — and until tomorrow, keep meeting God at the throne.
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