Welcome to our 31-Day Corporate Fast.
Joy in the Journey: Holding on to Hope in Heavy Seasons
My Dear New Life Family,
Every year brings its own story, its own battles, its own breakthroughs, its own burdens, and its own blessings. And when I look back over the last twelve months in the life of our church, I see the fingerprints of God resting on moments that were both triumphant and trying. We have celebrated new life, new opportunities, and new beginnings. And we have walked through loss and illness together. We have prayed one another through financial strain, emotional exhaustion, and uncertain transitions. And through every high and low, one truth has never shifted: God has been with us, closer than the air we breathe, and steadier than the ground beneath us.
This year’s devotional, Sacred Whispers, Volume 7, was born out of the deep conviction that joy is not a luxury for believers; it is a necessity. Joy is what steadies the hands of those who are tired, strengthens the hearts of those who are grieving, and anchors the souls of those who are wading through unpredictable waters. While happiness drifts with the winds of circumstance, joy is the gift God plants in us to carry us through whatever circumstances may come.
And many of us needed that joy this year. Some needed it in hospital rooms. Some needed it in silent places where bereavement and grief sat beside them like an old companion. Some needed it in moments of transition when the next step felt too uncertain to take. Some needed it after sleepless nights wrestling with their own thoughts. And others needed it simply to wake up and trust God again.
This collection of devotions takes that spiritual truth seriously. These are not light reflections or polite encouragements. They are the product of wrestling, praying, learning, and listening. They explore joy not as a feeling but as a theology truth. In these pages you will see joy as a discipline. Joy as a weapon. Joy as evidence of God’s nearness when life makes little sense. Joy as the unmistakable footsteps of a God who still walks with His people.
You will find within these pages a tapestry of Scriptural depth, personal testimony, tender shepherding, and spiritual formation. Some devotions will sit with you in the valley. Others will challenge you toward deeper faith. And many will remind you that joy is not found when everything is good around you, but when everything is good between you and God.
This year, I have watched our church seek the heart of God with renewed hunger. I’ve listened to your stories, prayed over your tears, and celebrated your victories. I’ve seen God strengthen families, restore hope, and rekindle faith. And as we prepare for this season of fasting, I believe with all my heart that the Lord is inviting us into something deeper: a joy that does not evaporate in trouble, a joy that outlives disappointment, a joy that carries you when your strength has nothing left to give.
So, therefore, my prayer is simple: May you hear the whispers of God in these pages. May you sense His presence, His peace, His comfort, and His unwavering love. May His Word settle your heart, steady your thoughts, and stir your faith. And may joy, true, biblical, soul-lifting joy, be full.
Monica and I love you more than words can capture. We are praying for you, believing with you, and walking beside you on this sacred journey. May this year be marked by the joy of the Lord becoming your strength in ways you have never experienced before.
Serving Him With Joy,
Pastor Marlin and Lady Monica Harris
New Life Church – Decatur, GA