There is surely a future hope for you, and your hope will not be cut off.

- Proverbs 23:18

In a world that lacks hope without Christ, we can rejoice that we have a relationship with the creator of the universe who gives us hope.

The greatest place we can put our hope in is in God and His promises.

When we dive into His word and drink in its life-giving truth, it strengthens us and instills hope into our soul, anchoring it down amidst the stormy waves of life:

We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. Hebrews 6:19

When we read the word and truly believe it in our hearts, it brings a firm security to our heart and soul that cannot be shaken by the quakes of life. Doubt, fear and discouragement won’t be able to get a grip on you because you are standing on the firm promises of God and your trust in Him! Since your hope and trust is in Him and not in the world, you can have peace about your future knowing it is in His hands.

“'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future. '” Jeremiah 29:11

Today, choose to place your hope in God’s promises no matter what the circumstances may look like. Even when things looked impossible for Abraham and Sarah to have a child, God’s promise to them still came to pass, and Isaac was born. Even when Joseph was sold into slavery by his brothers, falsely accused of a crime and thrown into jail, the plans God had for His future still came to pass and Joseph became second in command over all of Egypt!

Have hope and confidence in the Lord today!

Prayer: Lord, thank you for the hope your word and promises bring. You are always true to your word and fulfill each promise in your perfect timing. Help me to continually place my trust in you despite the circumstances around me.

With Love,
Sarah Sherstad

Every decision we make shapes the direction of our hearts. As you spend a few quiet moments with the Lord, ask Him to reveal areas where He is inviting you to trust His wisdom more fully. His guidance is faithful, and He promises to lead those who seek Him with willing hearts.

Journal & Reflect

• Where is God asking me to trust His wisdom instead of my own?
• What decisions am I currently bringing before the Lord?
• How can I intentionally keep my heart focused on God's direction this week? 

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Proverbs 23:19 mean?

Proverbs 23:19 encourages believers to pursue wisdom by listening to God's instruction and allowing Him to guide the direction of their hearts and lives.

What does it mean to guide your heart in the way?

It means intentionally choosing God's path through obedience, wisdom, and daily dependence on Him rather than following the world's influences.

How can I grow in godly wisdom?

Spend time reading Scripture, pray for discernment, seek God's guidance before making decisions, and faithfully apply His Word to your daily life.

Why is guarding the direction of my heart important?

Our hearts influence our thoughts, choices, and actions. Keeping our hearts centered on God helps us walk faithfully in His purpose and experience His peace. 

Prayer 

Father, Thank You for being the source of true wisdom. Help me listen carefully to Your voice and trust Your direction, even when I cannot see the entire path ahead. Guard my heart from distractions and lead me in the way that honors You. Give me discernment for every decision I face and a willing spirit that follows wherever You lead. 
In Jesus' name, 
Amen.

Message from Kara

One of the things I've learned over the years is that wisdom isn't simply about knowing the right answer—it's about staying close enough to God that His voice becomes the one we trust most.

There have been seasons when I wanted quick answers, but God gently reminded me that He was more interested in shaping my heart than rushing my circumstances.

If you're facing a decision today, don't be discouraged if you don't have every answer yet. Keep seeking Him. His wisdom is always available, and He faithfully guides those who are willing to follow.

I'm praying you'll experience His direction and peace today. 

Cheering you on, 
Kara 🤍 

Applying this to your Daily Routine

Take time to reflect, pray, and process what God is teaching you through every season. Our Personalized Prayer Journal was designed to help you grow deeper in faith—one day at a time–turning intention into habit. Many people use journals to revisit verses like these and reflect throughout the week.

👉 Explore Personalized Scripture Products at www.papersunday.com

Today's devotional pairs beautifully with the Golden Blooms Personalized Scripture Journal

If you want to grow deeper in your daily life and reflection, these devotionals can help:

Daily Devotional • Luke 6:44 • Fruit That Reflects the Heart

Daily Devotional • Isaiah 64:4 • Trusting the God Who Is Already Working