Faith & Encouragement

faith & enco


Welcome, friends. This is my little space to share God’s Word, encouragement, and devotionals that bring peace and joy to my days. I pray these reflections bless you and inspire your walk with Him. πŸ’•

A cozy space for Christian Standard Bible verses, reflections, and prayer.


Bible Supplies Wishlist

I will be updating both prayer Bibles as needed. 

Here is where I have my CSB for my Prayer Bible and information.

I just started using the NAS Bible as my new prayer Bible

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πŸ“– CSB Verse of the Week

"Cast all your cares on him, because he cares about you."
1 Peter 5:7 (CSB)


πŸ’­ Reflection

It’s easy to carry worries quietly, thinking we need to handle everything on our own. This verse is a gentle reminder that God invites us to bring every concern to Him. Nothing is too small or too heavy. When we release our worries into His hands, we make room for peace, trust, and rest.


πŸ™ Prayer

Lord, thank You for caring so deeply about every part of my life. Help me to release my worries and trust You more fully each day. Replace my anxious thoughts with Your peace and remind me that I am never alone. Amen.


πŸ“ Journal Prompt

  • What worries am I holding onto that I need to give to God today?


πŸ”— Read More (CSB)

Read the full chapter here:
πŸ‘‰ https://www.biblegateway.com (select CSB)


New Scripture reflections are added regularly. Feel free to bookmark this page or check back for encouragement.

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✨ Short Devotionals 

🌿 Trust in God’s Plan

Verse: “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord…” – Jeremiah 29:11
Devotional: Life doesn’t always go the way we expect, but God’s plan is always greater than ours. When we release control and place our trust in Him, peace replaces worry.

☀️ Light in the Darkness

Verse: “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” – John 1:5
Devotional: No matter how heavy the world feels, Christ’s light cannot be dimmed. Hold on to His presence, and let His light guide your path.


πŸ’• God’s Constant Love

Verse: “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases…” – Lamentations 3:22-23
Devotional: Even when we stumble, God’s love is unfailing. His mercies are brand new each day—a gentle reminder that we always get a fresh start with Him.

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I'm working on a page featuring this Bible, which includes information and pictures. Check it out here!


My Bible & How I Study It

Featuring the LifeWay Women’s Bible (CSB)

I’ve tried many different Bibles over the years, but I always find myself coming back to the LifeWay Women’s Bible in the Christian Standard Bible (CSB) translation—and I absolutely love it.

I’ve been using this Bible daily for about a year now, and it's definitely evident that it has been well-loved. I even added a small cross on the front cover and some pretty trim on the inside. I’m always decorating it and adding little personal touches. It’s truly become part of my daily life.

In this post, I’ll be sharing not only why I love this Bible but also some simple Bible study tips that help me stay focused, inspired, and connected with God every day.


Why I Love the LifeWay Women’s Bible

This Bible is so much more than just Scripture—it’s full of encouraging devotionals, thoughtful word studies, and insights written by women for women. It’s perfect for both beginners and those who’ve been studying the Bible for years.

What makes it extra special to me:

Easy-to-read CSB translation
Articles and devotionals throughout
Wide margins for notes and reflections|
Beautiful design and layout
Strong binding that holds up with daily use
Personal meaning I’ve added through decor and journaling


My Simple Bible Study Tips

If you're looking to grow in your faith or just want to find joy in studying the Bible, here are a few easy tips that have helped me along the way:
πŸ“ 1. Start with Prayer
Before you begin, ask God for wisdom and understanding (James 1:5). Invite the Holy Spirit to guide your study.

πŸ“– 2. Choose a Good Translation
Pick a Bible version that’s easy to understand. Some favorites:
New Living Translation (NLT) – Clear and modern
English Standard Version (ESV) – Good balance of accuracy and readability
New International Version (NIV) – Widely used and easy to follow

πŸ““ 3. Use a Bible Study Journal
Write down:
What verses stood out
What you learned about God
How it applies to your life
Questions you have

πŸ“š 4. Try Different Study Methods
Here are a few simple ones:
S.O.A.P. Method
Scripture – Write out a verse
Observation – What’s happening in the text?
Application – How can you apply it?
Prayer – Pray about what you learned
Verse Mapping
Break down keywords, look up original meanings, cross-references, and context.
Topical Study
Choose a topic (like forgiveness, love, peace) and find verses about it.
Character Study
Learn about a specific person (like Ruth, David, or Paul) and how God used them.

πŸ“† 5. Be Consistent, Not Perfect
Set a time that works for you—morning or evening. Even 10–15 minutes a day adds up. If you miss a day, don’t feel guilty—just pick up where you left off.

πŸ”Ž 6. Use Study Tools (Free or low-cost)
Study Bible – Has notes and maps built in
Bible Apps – Like YouVersion, Blue Letter Bible, or Bible Hub
Commentaries – For deeper understanding (try Matthew Henry or David Guzik)
Concordance – Helps you find verses by topic or keyword

πŸ‘―‍♀️ 7. Join or Start a Bible Study Group
Discussing with others helps you grow and see Scripture from different perspectives.

πŸ’‘ 8. Focus on Applying What You Learn
Bible study is not just about knowledge—it’s about transformation. Ask, “What is God showing me today?”

Final Thoughts

Studying the Bible is one of the most important parts of my day. It brings me peace, clarity, and joy. I hope sharing a little about how I study helps encourage you in your own walk with God.

Do you have a favorite Bible or a helpful tip that helps you? I’d love to hear about it in the comments or in a message!

πŸ’› Blessings and Happy Studying,

Mary

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Check out the new page: Bible-inspiration-devotionals

The man who turned water into wine can also turn your sadness into joy! 
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Yellow Leather V3 Undated Modern Christian PlannerYellow Leather V3 Undated Modern Christian Planner – Faith-Based Planner - Bible Study, Sermon Notes, Prayer Requests, Goal Setting, Finances & More

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bible



Undated Modern Christian Planner – Bible Study, Sermon Notes, Prayer Requests, Goal Setting, Finances & More | Greige Leather, Ivory Leather, and Denim Covers

inside


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The Daily 5-minute Bible Study for ...   I just got The Daily 5-Minute Bible Study for Women book. I can't wait to start it. It has a study for every day up to 365 days. It has four sections for each day.. Key verses: Understand, apply, and pray. In the back, there is a section called Scripture Index, with the day and the Bible verse. 

You can buy this book from Walmart, Amazon, and more.

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I did a blog post about Bible Information. Please check it out

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Love letters from God Are you seeking a life-changing relationship that brings healing and personal growth? These Christian, devotional quotes will offer you daily inspirational and life-changing encouragement.


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 These are on my wish list

Bible    bible

 

Dayspring Bibles - check them all out!

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Coffee and Bible Time

Coffee & Bible Time is driven by faith, family, and a powerful commitment to community.
We’re passionate, genuine, and curious – and we love welcoming new friends into our family as brothers and sisters in Christ.

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Motivation for women 

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 Lord's Prayer - Our Father by ...

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Kingfolk Co - I just joined their Sticker Folk - Monthly Subscription. I'm doing Aprils. Here are a few pictures of what I did in my Bible. Enjoy!


I will add this sticker folk's monthly subscription to my promises of the God Creative Journaling Bible. 



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Here is a picture of the promises of God Creative Journaling Bible

Promises of God Creative Journaling Bible


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Bible Study Bootcamp - TRANSFORM YOUR BIBLE STUDIES

 Alabaster Co

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Journal with the Serenity prayer

Journal with Serenity Prayer: Embrace tranquility with this inspirational journal, featuring the timeless Serenity Prayer. Its pages offer a sacred space for:• Writing heartfelt prayers• Capturing daily reflections• Sketching moments of inspiration let the words of wisdom guide you towards...

 

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Scripture quotations are taken from the Christian Standard Bible® (CSB®).
Copyright © 2017 by Holman Bible Publishers. Used by permission.
Christian Standard Bible® and CSB® are registered trademarks of Holman Bible Publishers.