A five-day devotional designed to complement the teaching series, “Trending: Divorce” by Orange Students. In this devotional, you’ll find encouragement to help you navigate changes in your family with the God who never changes.
reThink Group
Day 1
Scripture: Psalms 18:2
Isn’t it nice to hear that God is all these things—our deliverer, our rock, our fortress, our shield, our refuge? In good times and bad, these things remain true. When life or family dynamics change, God doesn’t. When you feel confusion, frustration, or disappointment because of what’s happening around you, you can look back to this Psalm to remind yourself of who God is. That He protects you and keeps you safe in the midst of so much change and uncertainty. That He never leaves, never changes, and never stops working to help you. Which of these characteristics of God means the most to you? Write it down somewhere you can see it often to help you remember who God is in your life right now.
Day 2
Scripture: Psalms 23:4
Have you ever walked through a room so dark you could barely see what was in front of you? Whether you’re afraid of the dark or not, there’s something about not being able to see what’s coming that causes some level of fear. But when we’re afraid, one thing that makes us feel safe is knowing someone is there with us. Sometimes a change in family dynamic or something as big as divorce can cause us to feel alone and afraid. This verse reminds us that God is with us. We can be comforted simply by knowing He is there. Do you know someone who is struggling in a dark or difficult season? Reach out to comfort them by simply reminding them that God is with them.
Day 3
Scripture: Psalms 56:8
Isn’t it cool to think that God never misses any of our tears or worries? When it comes to us—His beloved creations—His collection is never incomplete. He never misses a detail about what’s happening inside of our hearts or what we’re experiencing in this life. And because of that, we can find comfort in the middle of pain or uncertainty in our lives, knowing that the God who loves us cares enough to know and remember each and every detail of what’s happening in our hearts. Is there a fear or worry you’re dealing with in your life right now? Share it with God, inviting Him to comfort you as you remember how much He cares for you.
Day 4
Scripture: 1 Peter 5:7
When we experience the feelings that come with something as big as divorce or changes in our family dynamics, it can be easy to think that nobody cares or understands. It can be easy to feel alone. But in the midst of pain, it’s important to remember the truth of this verse. God cares about you. God wants to hear about your worries and pain. And He wants you to give them to Him—to let Him carry the weight of what you’re feeling. Take time to write down some of the worries or cares you’re feeling or experiencing right now. Then, throw them out, making an effort to remind yourself that you are giving it over to God.
Day 5
Scripture: Psalms 18:30
Let this sink in for a minute. No matter what road you’re on, you can know that, with God, you’ll be safe. No matter what direction your life takes, you can trust that, with God, you’re going to be okay. Even when it doesn’t feel like it, God’s promises are true. Even when you can’t see how He’s working to make life feel right again, you can trust that He is. When everything around you is changing, you can trust that God’s promises to you will always remain true. Take time this week to look up a few of God’s promises in Scripture. (Ask a friend, leader, teacher, or coach for help). Let them remind you that God is working for your good even when you can’t see or feel it.