One morning after growing weary of the persistent doubts pursuing me for days, I did something that I’ve found often encourages my faith. I write my prayers to God and then record what I think He would say to me. I begin by asking God to give me His thoughts. Such active listening is often rewarded with new insights and strong assurances of His love for me.

Several years ago Joy struggled through a heartbreaking crisis for many months. Her daughter had left home to live with a young man who proclaimed himself to be the leader of a rock group. He built castles in the air of taking the band on the road for concerts. Of course, her daughter would be included in all this worldly glory.

A friend said that after reading in John 17:26 of Jesus’ desire for us to love Him, she prayed for three years that she might love Jesus more.