Be Encouraged

by Valerie Denay Staton

When shadows fall around you and the road feels long and steep, when worry creeps in softly and tries to steal your sleep—

When dreams feel dim or distant and hope seems slow to rise, remember every sunrise begins in darkened skies.

Even in the silence, when answers seem delayed, a thousand gentle mercies are quietly being made.

For strength is born in waiting, and courage grows in prayer; God made to you, a promise, that He will always be there.

So, lift your eyes to heaven – let faith restore your view. Almighty God, who walks beside you, will surely carry you through.

Be encouraged!

Unbroken

by Valerie Denay Staton

I have walked through thunder, let rain write stories on my skin. Felt the ache of heavy stones, linger in my bones.

Still—I am standing.

Every scar became a furrow and every tear, a seed. What tried to bury me only taught me how to push through the dirt. Push through the dirt and reach for the sun!

I am not made of surrender. I am strong. I am resilient. I am…unbroken.