Sanctified Steps: Plans of Peace| Jeremiah 29:11 (KJV)

 

📖 Scripture:

“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.” — Jeremiah 29:11 (KJV)

---

Devotional:

Sometimes the hardest part of faith
is trusting God
when the present doesn’t look like promise.

Jeremiah 29:11 was spoken
to people in exile.

They were displaced.
Disappointed.
Disoriented.

And yet God spoke future
into their uncertainty.

“I know the plans.”

Not — you know.
Not — you understand.
But — I know.

Even when the path feels delayed.
Even when the outcome feels unfair.
Even when doors close without explanation.

God is not improvising with your life.

Hope is not based on how things look today.
It is anchored in who He is.

A future exists
even when you cannot yet see it.

Tonight, rest in this truth:

The Author of your story
has not lost the plot.

Reflection:

• Where in your life do you need to trust God’s plan more fully?
• Have recent disappointments made you question your future?
• What would it look like to hold on to hope, even without clarity?

Daily Wisdom Insight:

God’s plans are not cancelled by your confusion.

Practical Application:

Take a moment tonight
to name one area of uncertainty.

Instead of asking “Why?”
try asking, “Lord, what are You building here?”

Release the pressure to understand everything.

Trust that hope is still unfolding.

Prayer:

Father,

When I cannot see the full picture,
help me trust that You can.

When circumstances feel uncertain,
remind me that Your plans are steady.

Restore hope where doubt has tried to settle.
Give me peace in the waiting
and confidence in Your promises.

I place my future in Your hands,
trusting that You are working for my good.

In Jesus’ name,
Amen.

---

💬 Discussion Questions:

• How do you respond when life does not go according to your expectations?
• What does it mean to believe that God still has good plans for you?
• How can hope change the way you face uncertainty?

---

🔗 Discover More:

Visit the Sanctified Steps page for devotionals that strengthen faith, renew purpose, and bring peace to the journey.

☕ If our devotionals and stories have blessed your heart, you can treat us to a cup of coffee through PayPal, or visit the Faithfully Encourage Shop for notebooks, mugs, and candles inspired by everyday faith.

👠 Step by sanctified step. 💛✨

Obadiah: The Clipped Wing Chronicles| The Call of Shadows(Short Fiction, Episode 10)

 

The Call of Shadows

As Obadiah balances life as Brian Sessions, a quiet moment on a gospel radio show is interrupted by rumblings beneath the surface. A ghost is watching, a scroll is missing, and Heaven itself is stirring. While angels debate his fate in the Celestial Watchtower, Obadiah begins to feel the old weight return — not as punishment, but as purpose. Scroll to the read the episode below »

Episode 10 | The Call of Shadows
Baylor City—Present Day

Obadiah: The Clipped Wing Chronicles| My Brother's Fate|(Short Fiction, Episode 9)

 

My Brother's Fate

When Cassandra Gregory receives a mysterious video suggesting her brother—presumed dead—is still alive, Obadiah is drawn into a rescue that feels far more than coincidence. Guided by divine whispers and old loyalties, he infiltrates enemy lines with help from angels in disguise. But even a miracle mission has a cost—and Obadiah is reminded that purpose always comes calling. Scroll to the read the episode below »

Episode 9 | My Brother's Fate
Nineveh Province — Northern Iraq, Present Day

Obadiah: The Clipped Wing Chronicles| Zanna's Morning Rush( Short Fiction, Episode 8)

Zanna's Morning Rush

Zanna Sinclair overslept, spilled juice on her sweater, and nearly got run off the road by a Mustang-driving queen bee — just another day in Baylor City. But between best friend drama, college dreams, and a crush that won’t quit, something deeper stirs behind the high school chaos. For Zanna and her circle, the ordinary won’t stay ordinary much longer. Scroll to the read the episode below »

Episode 8 | Zanna's Morning Rush

Baylor City — Present Day

Obadiah: The Clipped Wing Chronicles| The Assignment Unfolds|(Short Fiction, Episode 7)

 

The Assignment Unfolds

Obadiah clings to his quiet life in Baylor City — flipping pancakes, walking familiar streets, and shielding Laric from a past he's tried to bury. But when a grieving woman comes bearing a message from the dead, the prophecy takes shape. The assignment he never wanted has arrived... and it wears a familiar face. Scroll to the read the episode below »

Episode 7 | The Assignment Unfolds

Baylor City — Present Day

Obadiah: The Clipped Wing Chronicles| The Summons| (Short Fiction, Episode 6)

 

The Summons

Obadiah is thrust back into the realm of angels—not by choice, but by divine command. Stripped of his wings yet tethered to purpose, he’s tasked with finding a missing soldier tied to the fate of the Chosen. But old wounds and reluctant obedience make this mission anything but simple. Scroll to the read the episode below »

Episode 6 | The Summons
Jerusalem — Old Testament Era (King David)

Obadiah: The Clipped Wing Chronicles| The Rise of Antioch (Short Fiction, Episode 5)

 

 

The Rise of Antioch

Antioch returns to his throne in Hades, gathering Reapers and sorcery to hunt Obadiah once and for all. With the help of a freed witch, he plots to walk the mortal world undetected — and destroy the Chosen from within. Scroll to the read the episode below »

Episode 5 | The Rise of Antioch

Depths of Hades— Present Day

Obadiah: The Clipped Wing Chronicles| The King and The Calling| (Short Fiction, Episode 4)

 

 

The King and The Calling

Just as Obadiah begins to believe a quiet life might be enough, Heaven interrupts with a vision from the past. On the steps of King David’s palace, old wounds are reopened — and divine orders come calling once more. Scroll down to read the episode »

Episode 4| The King and The Calling 
Baylor City — Present Day

Obadiah: The Clipped Wing Chronicles| Birth of An Angel (Short Fiction, Episode 1)

 

Birth of an Angel

As Reapers close in, an angel and a scholar fight to protect their unborn child — the last Nephilim. In a sacred birth filled with light, pain, and prophecy, a war ignites before the child can take his first breath. Read the full story below »

Episode 1| Prologue| The Birth of an Angel

Baylor City — Sixteen Years Earlier

Sanctified Steps: Coming Boldly for Grace| Hebrews 4:16 (KJV)

 

Come Boldly for Grace

📖 Scripture:

“Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.”— Hebrews 4:16 (KJV)

---

Devotional:

Grace is not something we earn
after we have done everything right.

It is something we are invited into
when we realize we need help.

Hebrews 4:16 reminds us that God does not ask us to stay away
until we feel worthy or composed.
He invites us to come—just as we are.

Not timidly.
Not hesitantly.
But boldly.

The throne of grace is not a place of judgment.
It is a place of mercy.
A place where help is available
right when it is needed most.

Tonight, you don’t have to clean yourself up
or find the right words.
You only have to come.

Grace is already waiting.

Reflection:

• What does it mean for you to come boldly to God right now?
• Are there needs you’ve been hesitant to bring before Him?
• How does knowing grace is available change how you approach God?

Daily Wisdom Insight:

Grace is not withheld until you are strong—it is given when you are in need.

Practical Application:

Tonight, acknowledge one area where you need help.

Pause and say: “Lord, I come to You for grace.”

Do not minimize the need.
Do not rush past the moment.

Receive the mercy and help God freely offers.

Prayer:

Father,

Thank You for inviting me
into Your presence without fear.

When I feel unsure or inadequate,
remind me that grace is available.

Help me come boldly,
trusting Your mercy
and receiving Your help.

I place my needs before You tonight,
confident that You meet me with grace.

In Jesus’ name,
Amen.

---

💬 Discussion Questions:

• Why can it be difficult to come boldly to God when we are struggling?
• How does grace change the way we view our weaknesses?
• What does receiving God’s help look like in your life right now?

Moses and the Burning Bush| Free Bible Coloring Page for Kids

Moses and the Burning Bush

Looking for a simple, kid-friendly Bible coloring page?

This free “Moses and the Burning Bush” coloring page illustrates the powerful moment when God spoke to Moses from the burning bush on holy ground (Exodus 3:2–5). It’s a meaningful and gentle way to introduce children to themes of God’s holiness, listening to God’s voice, and obeying His call.

Perfect for use in:

• Children’s Bible lessons
• Sunday School activities
• Homeschool Bible studies
• Christian classroom worksheets
• Quiet time or family devotionals

Children can color the scene while learning how Moses bowed before God, removed his sandals, and recognized that he was standing on holy ground.

Click below to download the full-size PDF coloring page and enjoy this engaging Bible activity with your kids or students.

Download “Moses and the Burning Bush” Coloring Page (PDF)

Daniel in the Lions' Den| Free Bible Coloring Page for Kids

Daniel in the Lions' Den

 

Looking for a simple, kid-friendly Bible coloring page?

This free “Daniel in the Lions’ Den” coloring page shows the peaceful moment when God protected Daniel while he prayed in the lions’ den (Daniel 6:22). It’s a gentle and meaningful way to introduce children to themes of faith, courage, prayer, and trusting God even in difficult situations.

Perfect for use in:

• Children’s Bible lessons
• Sunday School activities
• Homeschool Bible studies
• Christian classroom worksheets
• Quiet time or family devotionals

Children can color the scene while learning how God sent His angel to protect Daniel and how faith in God brings peace, even when circumstances seem scary.

Click below to download the full-size PDF coloring page and enjoy this engaging Bible activity with your kids or students.

Download “Daniel in the Lions' Den” Coloring Page (PDF)

Jesus Walks on the Water| Free Bible Coloring Page for Kids

Jesus Walks on the Water

 

Looking for a simple, kid-friendly Bible coloring page?

This free “Jesus Walks on the Water” coloring page captures the powerful moment when Jesus walked across the sea toward His disciples during the storm (Matthew 14:25). It’s a gentle and meaningful way to introduce children to themes of faith, trust, and Jesus’ power over fear and the waves.

Perfect for use in:

• Children’s Bible lessons
• Sunday School activities
• Homeschool Bible studies
• Christian classroom worksheets
• Quiet time or family devotionals

Children can color the scene while learning how Jesus came to His disciples in the middle of the storm and reminded them not to be afraid.

Click below to download the full-size PDF coloring page and enjoy this engaging Bible activity with your kids or students.

Download “Jesus Walks on the Water” Coloring Page (PDF)

Sanctified Steps: Come Unto Me| Matthew 11:28 (KJV)

 

Come Unto Me| Matthew 11:28

📖 Scripture:

“Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”— Matthew 11:28 (KJV)

---

Devotional:

Some days, the most faithful step
is simply admitting that you are tired.

Not weak.
Not failing.
Just weary.

Jesus does not ask us to push harder
when our strength is gone.
He invites us to come closer.

Rest is not a reward for finishing everything.
It is a gift offered in the middle of the load.

Tonight, let go of what can wait.
Let your soul exhale.
God is not disappointed in your pause—
He is present in it.

Reflection:

• What has been weighing on you today?
• Are you allowing yourself permission to rest?
• What would it look like to bring your weariness to God tonight?

Daily Wisdom Insight:

Rest is not quitting—it is trusting God to carry what you cannot.

Practical Application:

Tonight, release the need to do more.

Take a deep breath.
Lay down one worry.
Whisper this simple prayer:

“Lord, I give You my tiredness.”

Then rest.

Prayer:

Father,

Thank You for meeting me
not only in my strength,
but in my weariness.

When I am tired,
be my rest.

Quiet my mind,
steady my heart,
and restore my soul.

I place this day in Your hands.

In Jesus’ name,
Amen.

Sanctified Steps: Love Covers All |Proverbs 10:12 (KJV)

 

Love Covers All| Proverbs 10:12

📖 Scripture:

“Hatred stirreth up strifes: but love covereth all sins.” — Proverbs 10:12 (KJV)

---

Devotional:

As love is quietly acknowledged around us today,
Scripture reminds us that love is not passive —
it is powerful.

Proverbs 10:12 draws a clear contrast between two responses.
Hatred stirs.
Love covers.

Where resentment agitates wounds,
love chooses peace.
Where conflict seeks exposure,
love offers grace.

This covering is not denial.
It is intentional restraint.
It is choosing unity over division
and restoration over reaction.

Love steps in where strife would otherwise grow.
It softens what anger hardens.
It protects what bitterness would destroy.

When love becomes our response,
the atmosphere changes —
and healing finds room to breathe.

Reflection:

• How do you typically respond when conflict arises?
• Are there situations where love could quiet strife instead of fueling it?
• What does it look like to let love cover rather than escalate?

Daily Wisdom Insight:

Love does not stir the storm — it calms it.

Practical Application:

Today, pay attention to moments of tension or disagreement.

Before responding, pause.
Ask yourself:
“Will this stir strife — or cover with love?”

Choose one response rooted in peace:
a softened tone,
a patient pause,
or a gracious word.

Let love be the difference.

Prayer:

Father,

Teach me to respond with love
when conflict tries to take root.

Help me choose peace over pride
and grace over reaction.

Where emotions rise,
let love lead.

Cover my steps with Your wisdom
so my words and actions
bring healing, not harm.

In Jesus’ name,
Amen.

Echoes of Faith: From Evicted and Employes| Short Fiction

 

From Evicted to Employed

After losing her home, a mother of three holds on to faith while searching for stability—and discovers that God’s provision often comes in unexpected ways.  Let the story speak to your heart—scroll down to begin.

Sanctified Steps: Love That Covers the Way — 1 Peter 4:8 (KJV)

 

Love that covers the way: 1 Peter 4:8

📖 Scripture:

“Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.”— 1 Peter 4:8 (KJV)

---

Devotional:

As love is quietly acknowledged around us today,
Scripture reminds us that love is not shallow or temporary —
it is meant to run deep.

The love described in 1 Peter 4:8 is not fragile.
It does not retreat at the first sign of weakness.
It does not keep count or rehearse failures.

This kind of love covers.
It protects what is vulnerable.
It responds with grace instead of exposure.

To love deeply means choosing patience when mistakes surface,
extending mercy when emotions are strained,
and allowing grace to do what judgment never could.

Love does not pretend sin does not exist —
it chooses restoration over rejection.

When love leads our steps,
healing has room to grow.

Reflection:

• What does it mean to love deeply rather than casually?
• Are there situations where God is inviting you to cover rather than confront?
• How does choosing love create space for healing?

Daily Wisdom Insight:

Deep love does not ignore imperfection — it responds with grace.

Practical Application:

Today, consider one relationship or interaction that feels strained.

Instead of revisiting what went wrong,
choose one act of grace —
a kind word,
a patient response,
or a moment of understanding.

Let love do the covering.

Prayer:

Father,

Teach me to love deeply,
not with conditions,
but with compassion.

When it is easier to point out flaws,
help me choose grace.

Let my love reflect Yours —
steady, merciful,
and restorative.

Guide my steps in love today
and every day.

In Jesus’ name,
Amen.

---

💬 Discussion Questions:

• Why is covering with love often harder than correcting with words?
• How does God’s love cover us, even in our weaknesses?
• What would change if love became our first response?

---

🔗 Discover More:

Visit the Sanctified Steps page for devotionals that strengthen faith, renew purpose, and bring peace to the journey.

☕ If our devotionals and stories have blessed your heart, you can treat us to a cup of coffee through PayPal, or visit the Faithfully Encourage Shop for notebooks, mugs, and candles inspired by everyday faith.

👠 Step by sanctified step. 💛✨

Echoes of Faith: The Paw on the Bible| Short Fiction

 

The Paw on the Bible

Sometimes, the quiet moments we plan with God are gently interrupted by the ones He sends. In this heartwarming story from “Echoes of Faith,” Claire’s peaceful devotional takes an unexpected turn—thanks to a puppy named Milo, a paw on her Bible, and a lesson in love she didn’t see coming.  Let the story speak to your heart—scroll down to begin.

Balaam and the Talking Donkey| Free Bible Coloring Page for Kids

 

Looking for a simple, kid-friendly Bible coloring page?

This free “Balaam and the Talking Donkey” coloring page shows the moment when God opened the donkey’s mouth to speak to Balaam on the road (Numbers 22:21–33). It’s a fun and meaningful way to teach children about listening to God, obedience, and how God can use anyone — even a donkey — to share His message.

Perfect for use in:

• Children’s Bible lessons
• Sunday School activities
• Homeschool Bible studies
• Christian classroom worksheets
• Quiet time or family devotionals

Children can color the scene while learning how God protected Balaam and helped him see the angel blocking the path.

Click below to download the full-size PDF coloring page and enjoy this engaging Bible activity with your kids or students.

Download “Balaam and the Talking Donkey” Coloring Page (PDF)

Sanctified Steps: A Refuge That Does Not Fail| Psalm 9:9 (KJV)

 

The Lord is My Refuge| Psalm 9:9

📖 Scripture:

“The Lord also will be a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble.”— Psalm 9:9 (KJV)

---

Devotional:

There are moments when life presses in from every side —
when trouble feels constant
and relief feels distant.

Psalm 9:9 reminds us that God does not merely observe our distress —
He becomes our refuge.

A refuge is not a place we visit briefly.
It is a place we run to,
a shelter that holds steady when everything else shakes.

For the oppressed, the weary, the overwhelmed, God offers more than comfort.
He offers covering.
He stands between us and the weight of our circumstances,
not always removing the trouble immediately,
but protecting our hearts while we endure it.

This verse assures us that trouble does not disqualify us from God’s presence —
it invites us into it.

When the world feels unsafe,
God remains a safe place.

Reflection:

• Where do you usually turn first in times of trouble?
• What does it mean for God to be your refuge, not just your rescuer?
• How might your response to hardship change if you rested in God’s protection?

Daily Wisdom Insight:

God does not wait for the storm to pass before becoming your shelter —He meets you inside it.

Practical Application:

Today, identify one situation where you feel overwhelmed or burdened.

Pause and say aloud:
“Lord, You are my refuge in this moment.”

Instead of rushing to fix everything,
practice resting — even briefly — in God’s presence.
Let Him be your shelter before He becomes your solution.

Prayer:

Father,

Thank You for being a refuge
when life feels heavy
and the path feels uncertain.

When trouble surrounds me,
help me remember that I am not exposed —
I am covered.

Teach me to run to You first,
to trust Your protection,
and to rest in Your faithfulness.

Be my refuge today,
and every day.

In Jesus’ name,
Amen.

---

💬 Discussion Questions:

• Why is it sometimes difficult to see God as a refuge during hardship?
• How does knowing God is a safe place change how we face trouble?
• What does resting in God’s protection look like in daily life?