Elevate Your Day with Andi and Brian Hale

Repent and Confess

From Speaking Life in Your Marriage on YouVersion
James 3:7-11 NASB1995For every species of beasts and birds, of reptiles and creatures of the sea, is tamed and has been tamed by the human race. But no one can tame the tongue; it is a restless evil and full of deadly poison. With it we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in the likeness of God; from the same mouth come both blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not to be this way. Does a fountain send out from the same opening both fresh and bitter water?
Have you used words to tear down, nag, or criticize? Do you tend to be sarcastic or quick tempered? Or have you withheld words that should have been spoken? Have you hidden your hurts from your spouse, or held a grudge when you felt hurt rather than being honest about the breach in your relationship?
I doubt there’s anyone among us who can say they have never done any of those! James 3 is clear that “no one can control the tongue,” which is something we can all probably recognize in our own lives. Some couples have said that their most bitter fights happen on the way to church, where they then sit down together and stand to praise God through their tense lips. What a vivid image of when “blessing and cursing come pouring out of the same mouth”!
Lamentations 3:40 NASB1995Let us examine and probe our ways, And let us return to the Lord.
Today, start with humility before God. Ask the Holy Spirit for conviction. Ask Him to reveal where you sinned with your words this week. Then confess and repent of what He brings to mind.
Confess and apologize to your spouse for using your words to hurt. Repent of not being honest about the things you need to communicate. Confess, then let go of any grudges, past hurts or bitterness. Ask your spouse for forgiveness. Acknowledge that you want to move forward in a new way and to follow the instructions of Ephesians 4 to get rid of harsh words and be kind, tenderhearted and forgiving.
It is not easy to apologize or confess, but that is where healing begins. We are fallen humans on the road to growing more like Christ, but we are not there yet! We will need to repent, confess and apologize on a regular basis. When we do, He is faithful to forgive us. And we can forgive freely, as God in Christ has freely forgiven us.
Ephesians 4:31-32 NASB1995Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you.
Next Steps:
Pray, asking God for conviction
Respond to His conviction with repentance and confession
Apologize to your spouse for words you’ve said that hurt them.

Power of Words

From Speaking Life in Your Marriage on YouVersion
John 1:1 NASB1995In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
The words we speak have more power than we realize. Words matter. John 1:1 refers to Jesus as “the Word,” and Genesis tells us that it was through the power of His words that God created the heavens, the earth, and all created things. The Bible itself is referred to as God’s Word. Words have great power.
Proverbs 18:21 NASB1995Death and life are in the power of the tongue, And those who love it will eat its fruit.
Of all created things, humankind alone – created in the image of God – was given the ability to speak. So through our words, we have the capacity to reflect the image of God’s life-giving nature, or to hurt and destroy. We have the choice to “bring life or death.” Often we speak without thinking. We speak without intentionality. We air our thoughts and opinions without considering their impact. When we do, we miss out on using words to encourage and build up those around us.
In marriage, our spouse can easily be taken for granted because we are around them so much. The daily interactions can become routine and we neglect times that we could use to share encouragement and appreciation. So today, think of one good thing you might be taking for granted about your spouse, and say it. Use the power of your words to build them up today.
Next Steps:
Consider that words are a God-given gift, not to be taken for granted.
DO NOT say the unhelpful things you think
DO say the helpful / kind / encouraging things you think.

Known and Held

Do you ever feel unseen?
Like no one truly gets what you’re going through, or worse, that God might be distant from your pain? Maybe you’re carrying unspoken hurts—broken friendships, betrayals, rejection, or even disappointment in yourself. It’s hard to face those deep aches, and sometimes, it feels like no one understands.
I know this feeling all too well. There have been seasons in my life where I felt abandoned, forgotten, and misunderstood. I’ve wrestled with feelings of loneliness after friendships fell apart or trust was betrayed. I’ve struggled with self-doubt after harsh accusations and sank into discouragement when life seemed overwhelming.
But in the midst of all that, I’ve learned one of the most comforting truths: Even when you feel unseen, God’s love for you is unchanging and ever-present.
Romans 8:35-39 NASB1995Who will separate us from the love of Christ? Will tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? Just as it is written, “For Your sake we are being put to death all day long; We were considered as sheep to be slaughtered.” But in all these things we overwhelmingly conquer through Him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing, will be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
When we’re hurting, we often feel as if no one notices—especially God. Yet God’s love doesn’t hinge on our circumstances or our worthiness. It’s constant, tender, and real. His love is near, as close as your next breath.
No matter where you are or what you’ve experienced, God sees you. And He understands your heart, not from a distance, but from a place of intimate care. In your loneliness, in your brokenness, in your doubt, He is present.
Jeremiah 31:3 NASB1995The Lord appeared to him from afar, saying, “I have loved you with an everlasting love; Therefore I have drawn you with lovingkindness.
I remember a season when I struggled with deep feelings of rejection and loneliness, especially while starting a new chapter in my personal and professional life. I was overwhelmed, questioning whether I was truly seen, and unsure if I could keep moving forward.
During that time, I felt God gently whisper to my heart, “You are not alone. I see you. I know your heart. And I love you.” It wasn’t a loud, dramatic declaration. It was His quiet, consistent presence that reminded me I wasn’t forgotten, even when I felt invisible.
Psalms 34:18 NASB1995The Lord is near to the brokenhearted And saves those who are crushed in spirit.
God’s love isn’t a distant, abstract concept—it’s personal.
It meets us where we are, with tenderness and understanding. God’s heart for you is full of compassion, and His love speaks to your deepest needs: “I see you. I understand you. You are loved, you are valued, and you belong.”
Today, if you’re feeling invisible or disconnected, take a moment to pause and let God meet you where you are.
Ephesians 3:19-20 NASB1995and to know the love of Christ which surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled up to all the fullness of God. Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us,
You don’t need to hide or pretend. Bring Him your brokenness and your longing. He isn’t distant or indifferent—He draws near, inviting you to rest in the truth that you are seen, known, and deeply loved by Him.
As you pray, use this breath prayer to slow down and open your heart to God’s more-than-we-can-ask-or-imagine love.
Inhale: God fill me todayExhale: With Your love
God fill me today with Your love.
Let His love fill the spaces where you feel forgotten. Breathe in the truth that you are known and held by the God who sees you fully.
Are you ready to experience more of Jesus’ care in your everyday life? It’s been a joy to walk with you through this plan, and I’d love to continue encouraging your relationship with Him. Click here for complimentary access to “3-Minute Habit Hacks for Life with God,” crafted to help you build simple, meaningful rhythms that deepen your connection with Jesus.

Prince of Peace

Life can feel overwhelming—appointments, deadlines, endless to-do lists, and expectations pulling you in every direction.
It’s easy to get caught in the rush, feeling like you’re always chasing something just out of reach. And when everything feels like it’s speeding up, it’s hard to catch your breath, let alone experience peace. But no matter how chaotic life becomes, there’s one thing that remains unshaken: God’s peace.
Isaiah 9:6 NASB1995For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us; And the government will rest on His shoulders; And His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace.
We often think peace is something we have to search for, something we must earn, or something that will appear when our circumstances are just right. But God’s peace is already here. He’s waiting to surround you with it, ready to calm your restless heart—if you’ll let Him.
Peace isn’t the absence of problems; it’s the presence of God right in the middle of them.
When your mind is racing, when your heart is heavy, and when you feel stretched too thin, God’s peace is the thing that you need most. The kind of peace that doesn’t depend on your circumstances, but on His constant, unwavering presence. When you pause and invite Him into your day with every breath, you allow His peace to settle deep within you. It’s not something you have to earn or create—it’s something you receive from Him.
When anxiety tightens its grip and worry creeps in, come back to this prayer. Let each inhale remind you of His love and presence, and each exhale releases the burdens that weigh you down.
Isaiah 26:3 NASB1995The steadfast of mind You will keep in perfect peace, Because he trusts in You.
Take a moment to pause and reflect:
What would God’s peace feel like to you in your current circumstances?
What fears or anxieties are holding you hostage?
How can you create space for God’s peace right now?
You don’t need a perfect moment—just a moment to pause and surrender to God.
Breathe in the peace He freely offers, and breathe out the tension, fear, or worry that tries to steal it away.
Philippians 4:7 NASB1995And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Also, you don’t have to do this alone.
There’s something special about worshiping together—about singing praises with others. Singing in unison with others can literally help align your breathing and heart rate. Studies show that when we sing together, our bodies sync up, creating a sense of unity and peace.
John 14:27 NASB1995Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful.
If you find yourself anxious, try attending a worship service and singing with fellow believers. Focus your attention on God and use your breath to keep your attention there as you join your voice with others echoing His praise.
But remember, you don’t have to wait until the next service to experience God’s peace. Let’s take a moment to pray together.
Inhale deeply, taking your attention away from all the noise and needs and clamoring circumstances. As you exhale, release your burdens and anxieties out with your breath. Let your chest and head and shoulders relax.
With the next breath, let’s pray.
Inhale: I receive Your peaceExhale: To guard my heart and mind
I receive Your peace, to guard my heart and mind.
Repeat these words with each breath. Let His peace fill you and guard you, knowing that in every moment of surrender, your Prince of Peace is with you, ready to calm your heart and guide your steps.
Now that you’re experiencing more of His peace, let’s move into a deeper connection where God’s love fills the very core of who you are. Get ready for tomorrow!

Shepherd Provider

Are you feeling the weight of big decisions, stressed about making the “right” choice, or afraid of missing God’s plan?
Psalm 23 is one of the most comforting and soul-settling passages in the Bible. It invites you into the tender care of God as your Shepherd, someone who knows you personally, leads you faithfully and provides for you fully. Today, let’s begin with just the first verse:
“The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need.” (Psalm 23:1, NLT)
Take a deep breath and let those words sink in.
The Lord is your shepherd. Not just a shepherd for the whole world—though that’s true—but yours. He knows your heart, your questions, and your fears. Shepherds don’t lead from afar; they stay near, providing protection, correction, and care.
John 10:14 NASB1995I am the good shepherd, and I know My own and My own know Me,
You have all that you need. I know how hard it can be to believe that sometimes. Maybe you’re in a season of uncertainty or waiting, where it feels like God’s provision isn’t enough. But His Word reminds us He always gives what is good. His care doesn’t mean you’ll never have wants or challenges—it means you’re never without His presence, peace, or guidance.
Psalms 143:8 NASB1995Let me hear Your lovingkindness in the morning; For I trust in You; Teach me the way in which I should walk; For to You I lift up my soul.
Dallas Willard said, “The Lord is my shepherd—that is relationship. I shall not want—that is provision.” Let that sink in. God’s shepherding care meets your needs—not just material needs, but your need for comfort, clarity, and connection with Him.
Notice that Psalm 23 doesn’t say you must find the right path. It says that the Lord your Shepherd leads you, guides you, and refreshes you, even making you lie down to rest in good places.
For someone like me—a recovering perfectionist with some chronic health challenges—this truth is life-giving. God’s guidance is personal and kind, freeing me from the pressure to control every outcome.
Isaiah 30:21 NASB1995Your ears will hear a word behind you, “This is the way, walk in it,” whenever you turn to the right or to the left.
What if the “right path” isn’t about a perfect choice, but about walking closely with Him?
Take a moment to pause and ask Him:
Lord, where am I putting too much pressure on myself?
How can I trust You with this decision instead of trying to control it?
Show me how You’ve guided me before, so I can see Your faithfulness now.
When you feel the weight of choices or the fear of making a mistake, remember this: God’s leadership is steady, His paths are good, and you don’t walk them alone.
Breathe deeply and intentionally as you pray either (or both) of the breath prayers below.
Inhale: The Lord is my shepherdExhale: I have all that I need
The Lord is my shepherd, I have all that I need.
Inhale: The Lord my shepherdExhale: Leads me on right paths
The Lord my shepherd, leads me in right paths.
Repeat them slowly, letting their truth settle you. Picture God gently guiding you—not to make you prove anything, but to invite you into His peace and provision.
With each breath, release the stress of trying to control the outcome. Let your questions rise—they’re starting points for deeper conversations with God.
As you move through your day, keep this breath prayer close. Each breath is a reminder: God sees you, knows you, and cares for you. You are His. And because He is your Shepherd, you truly have all that you need.
Tomorrow, let’s discover together how the Lord, our Shepherd, also brings peace that calms our hearts and relieves anxiety.