About Cheryl's Tea Room

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Heavenly Father, as I look back over the month of January, I realize how quickly it has gone by. While many things came out as expected and planned, there were some surprises and things I didn’t plan on; some days were an adventure to say the least! Thank You for helping me navigate the unexpected and the unpleasant, Lord. Thank You for the wisdom You continue to share and pour out to me from heaven. Thank You for giving me a flexible spirit and mindset so I am not crushed or devastated when things don’t go my way or as planned. I know my strength and ability to go-with-the-flow are a biproduct of living life in and under the Holy Spirit’s power and taking on His characteristics of peace as mine. I look forward to February, Lord. I have some plans, but I know even when those plans change or are altered by circumstances beyond my control, I will be alright. In the name of Jesus my Lord. Amen

Inspiration for Today’s Prayer

Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails—Proverbs 19:21 

My days are swifter than a weaver’s shuttle; they come to an end without hope—Job 7:6

“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 hope and a future.”—Jeremiah 29:11

 Heavenly Father, at times I feel misunderstood. When that happens, I feel frustrated, saddened, sometimes hurt or angered, and at times, I feel the need to defend or explain myself to others. Help me, Lord, in those times when I feel misunderstood to remember even Jesus was misunderstood; thank You for His example of what to do. It’s not always easy to stay silent or let my actions and character speak for themselves. It’s not always easy to endure or resist defending my reputation, but if I follow Jesus’ example, I will come to spend time in Your presence and talk it over with You; I know You’ll understand exactly what I’m feeling in those moments. I know You have me covered and will take up my case and defend me when that’s needed and important, but more than anything I know You’ll continue to walk with me through this world where everything isn’t always fair and judgments are not always correct. May I find peace knowing it’s not necessary that people always understand me, as long as You do then my joy and satisfaction is complete. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen

Inspiration for Today’s Prayer

O Lord, you have searched me and known me—Psalm 139:1

You, then, why do you judge your brother or sister? Or why do you treat them with contempt? For we will all stand before god’s judgment seat—Romans 4:10 

For he knows how weak we are; he remembers we are only dust—Psalm 103:14

  Heavenly Father, thank You for taking notice of me as I live out my life in this world where everyone seems to be vying for attention and recognition; everyone wants to be seen. Sometimes I’m overlooked or go unnoticed. Sometimes I’m made to feel as though I just don’t measure up or am not good or special enough to be counted—somehow not even my best is good enough—but You, O Lord, have taken supreme notice of me—You know what’s special and unique about me—You even sent Jesus to die so I could experience relationship with You—You teach me I have worth and value. Because I am noticed by You, I am not devastated when I am not seen by others; I do not need the world’s accolades or recognitions to be happy or content, or at peace, or productive; I do not need people in high places to take notice of me because the King of kings and the Lord of lords sees and has taken notice of me. I’m grateful I can have these one-on-one conversations with You Father, and You’ll understand my inner pain. Thank You for Your promise and power to heal my pain of being overlooked and for reminding me I am seen in the place and by the One that counts the most. In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen 

Inspiration for Today’s Prayer:

The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.”—I Samuel 16:7 

Heavenly Father, I’ve heard that adage, “the hand that rocks the cradle rules the world.” I am a daughter of Eve and share the gift of nurturing others. Thank You for the maternal instincts You have knit into the fiber of my being. By design, the instinct to nurture others is present in women even when we do not have children of our own. Thank You that my instinct to nurture can be fulfilled and activated through prayer. Being able to pray for family and friends and the situations around this world keep me from fretting and worrying. I can do more than offer counsel and advice, my prayer can be the place I rock and cradle and know good and godly outcomes are coming for those I pray. As a believer my prayers are powerful and effective; according to Your Word I know my prayers make a difference. May I be a woman of deep, fervent prayer. May I embrace the gift of praying and become that prayer warrior that’s needed for a world that is lost and confused. Teach me Your Word, O Lord, that I can pray confidently and with assurance that what I am asking for is in line with Your will and will come about in Your time. Today I am especially concerned and pray for…

Inspiration for Today’s Prayer

Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours—Mark 11:24

The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working—James 5:16

Whatever you ask in my name, this I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask me anything in my name, I will do it—John 14:13-14

 Heavenly Father, there are so many things I need Your help to accomplish: I pray for greater harmony and peace in my heart, my home, and my daily life. I need Your help releasing endeavors that drain me of life and joy, and inner peace, and instead, become better at embracing the efforts that bring fulfillment, inspiration and balance. I ask for Your help to do more that supports my mental, physical and spiritual wellbeing so I can grow and flourish; I don’t want to be like a bush shriveling under the desert heat but more like a tree planted by Your streams of living, renewing, giving water. I ask for Your help to have a greater alignment of purpose, passion, and serenity so I can radiate and not dull out under life’s stresses. I ask You to help me have daily discernment and wisdom so I can make good choices and prioritize my energy and resources toward what truly matters. Thank You for being my Divine Helper. Thank You that I can come to You with matters both great and small. I pray, grant me the unity of a heart and mind that are intentional about cultivating joy, peace, and growth in my life, my faith, and my spirit. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen

Inspiration for Today’s Prayer 

My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth—Psalm 121:12

Surely God is my help; the Lord is the one who sustains me—Psalm 54:4 

Heavenly Father, I know Your Holy Spirit can help me prioritize so I can live my life with more power and productively. As I read the Scriptures I see how Jesus prayed constantly but He also often withdrew to lonely places to spend time alone in prayer and was strengthened and empowered through these prayer appointments. I know I’m good at my popcorn prayers and prayers on the fly. Praying in the moment has often supplied much needed peace, calm, wisdom, and guidance. Thank You heavenly Father for being able to pray wherever I am and keep it moving at the same time. I can tend to my family, take care of others, tend to household matters, complete an assignment at work, drive down the street, and at the same time be in prayer. Thank You for hearing my pray-as-I-go prayers. These prayers are wonderful and uplifting to my spirit, body, and mind, but I also want to become proficient at making prayer appointments with You, scheduling time with You in my day where I can sit and talk leisurely with You just as I would a close and intimate friend. I ask You to help me in this area. I know You have so much You want to pour out to me during times such as these, where I can concentrate on what You are saying to me without juggling a thousand other things at the same time. Thank You for understanding my earnest desire to spend time in intentional prayer and for already knowing how You will help me accomplish this. I open my calendar and day planner to You, help me to see the best times and dates we can meet and to keep these appointments with you religiously. In the name of Jesus my Lord and Savior, I pray. Amen

Inspiration for Today’s Prayer:

But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed—Luke 5:16

 Heavenly Father, more than ever women are doing more and have more opportunities to expand and grow and utilize the gifts and talents You have knit into us in the womb. However, the extra stress of today’s busy lifestyle can take a toll on our wellbeing. We need Your wisdom more than ever to help us. We need to be able to know and tap into Your wisdom through prayer based upon Your Word of truth. I truly believe as the Scriptures teach me, that the prayers of the righteous are powerful and effective because they are prayed with fervency and from a good and righteous heart. The prayers of those who believe in the Holy Trinity can see and experience miracles and wonders and that godly results are manifested in our lives. My heart’s desire is to always pray in accordance with Your will for my life and to pray using the integrity of Your Word as I ask for provision and change. I trust You Father, with all my heart and I am confident that I will see the greatness of my God displayed and manifested in my life and circumstances. Your love for me is boundless and Your will for my life is perfect! In the name of my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, I pray. Amen    

Inspiration for Today’s Prayer

The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective—James 5:16

 Heavenly Father, the world piles on, people pile on; and did I forget the devil piles on too. Sometimes though I don’t mean too, even I pile on my already overloaded life-plate; adding to the burdens I carry! Everyone but You, Lord, will put more on me than I can bear. You are my Divine Source of love and strength. I ask for Your guidance and support—not only for me—but for all women carrying heavy loads. Lift from our shoulders the weight that hinders our hearts and spirits. Grant us the courage to release what we cannot control, the wisdom to navigate each challenge, and the grace to find peace amidst life’s demands. I pray, renew our energy, restore our hope and fill our hearts with resilience and light. Lord, no matter how much life (or the devil) or we pile on ourselves, may we walk forward unburdened, empowered, and supported, embracing each day with clarity and strength and love. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen 

Inspiration or Today’s Prayer

Every burden we find ourselves under serves a purpose in our growth. God knows our limits and does not challenge us beyond our strength—I Corinthians 10:13

  Heavenly Father, with costs of nearly everything rising daily but incomes staying the same or shrinking, help me be the best steward I can be with the resources You provide for me (and my family). As prices rise it’s so tempting to let my anxiety rise also; so tempting to panic when it’s not certain the ends will meet; so tempting to let my thoughts race and imagine the worst possible outcome. I pray Lord, help me guard both my peace and my trust that You are the God who can make a way out of no way, the God who can multiply and sustain, the God who sees me, the God who has promised to supply all my needs through Christ Jesus my Lord! Help me see my spending habits and then close up any holes I have in my handbag where money seems to just leak out and flow freely. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen

Inspiration for Today’s Prayer

You earn wages, only to put them in a purse with holes in it—Haggai 1:6b   

 Heavenly Father, when our priorities are misplaced, we can suffer negative consequences. Sometimes misplaced priorities lead to feelings of being overwhelmed, sometimes we can experience burnout, or become easily distracted, and sometimes, misplaced priorities can cause disruption and impact our ability to reach our goals and fulfill our potential. I pray, help me to recognize the impact misplaced priorities can have on my life and teach me how to maintain focus and prioritize. Thank You for Your Holy Spirit who helps me keep order and better align my actions with my true purpose and values. Through Him, I can view life and responsibilities not only from a worldly and immediate point of view, but heavenly and eternal. Living my life as Your daughter, I want to address what truly matters so I can be productive and enjoy a healthy, balanced life free from stress.  Help me distinguish the important, from the things that can wait, or that I don’t have to do at all. I lean on and trust Your wisdom and guidance to make sound decisions in and for my life Lord. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen   

Inspiration for Today’s Prayer

You have planted much, but harvested little. You eat, but never have enough. You drink, but never have your fill. You put on clothes, but are not warm. You earn wages, only to put them in a purse with holes in it—Haggai 1:6

 Heavenly Father, open my eyes to the holiness hidden in the humble tasks of my day. When I wash and fold laundry, let me remember the warmth You wrap around me. When I prepare meals, may I taste the sweetness of Your daily provision. As I clean my kitchen or bring order to cluttered corners in my home, let me sense the renewal You bring to my own heart, clearing out the clutter and chaos. When I make the bed, may I rest in the peace You promise. When I vacuum the floors, may I feel You sweeping away the dust of my worries. When I clean the bathroom, may I remember how Jesus humbled Himself, took off His priestly robes and came into the stench of this world to live among us, to save and  redeem me. Lord, in every chore that feels heavy, monotonous, or time-consuming, teach me to see an altar where I can meet You—help me to find worship in the work I do, and to draw nearer to Your presence in the quiet rhythm of the ordinary. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen 

Inspiration for Today’s Prayer:

Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving—Colossians 3:23-24  

  Heavenly Father, I can dress up and I can dress down, I can put on work or business attire, and I can dress for a causal date and playtime, I can dress for worshiping before Your throne, I can dress for an appointment and I can dress for a day at home, just kicking back and being comfortable. Whatever the activity I can pull something out of my closet to fit the occasion, but one thing is for sure when I put on the full armor of God I am dressed for success! Before I lay out the  outfit I’m going to wear on any given day, may I always be mindful that I need to buckle the belt of truth around my waist, put on the breastplate of righteousness, get my feet ready to share the gospel of peace, grab my shield of faith so I can extinguish those flaming darts of the evil one, and always put on my helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit which is the Word of God. Thank You, Lord, for this spiritual attire that keeps me protected and ready for whatever comes my way! Thank You Lord, that I don’t have to rely solely upon the clothes I put on my body to give me the confidence and assurance that I am ready to face my day. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen  

Inspiration for Today’s Prayer

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dak world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God—Ephesians 6:10-17 

  Heavenly Father, a delicious cup of tea or coffee or another beverage can refresh us. A power nap can refresh us. A time away from our regular routine or hectic schedule can refresh us. A visit with good friends or loving family can refresh us. A walk in the woods or through the neighborhood can refresh us. So many ways and avenues You have provided on this journey that are able to give us at least a momentary refreshment. You know how badly our souls and bodies and minds often need to be refreshed. Temporary refreshment can come through many ways and means, however, there’s only one source which is You that we can find a refreshment that penetrates to our soul and heart, only one place we can be refreshed in such a way we receive a new outlook or perspective; where we get a supernatural strength or peace or energy no earthly source could provide. Thank You, Lord, for your promise of refreshment when we spend time in Your presence—whether being in worship, reading Your Word, or pausing to pray—that never runs dry and has no limits. Thank you, Lord, for providing the refreshing support we crave and need in our lives. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen 

Inspiration for Today’s Prayer

For I will satisfy the weary soul, and every languishing soul I will replenish—Jeremiah 31:25 

 Heavenly Father, today I’m especially reminded of Your promise, not only to do something new, but that You can and will make a way in the wilderness, put a stream in the wasteland, flood the desert with rivers of flowing water, and make a way out of no way. I need to sit with this mighty and hope-giving promise for a while, especially as I look at all the situations and lives around me that resemble wastelands, deserts, and impossibilities. Your promise of transformation and renewal; that You are actively doing something new even in seemingly impossible situations is an important one to learn by heart, embrace with both my heart and mind, and cling to like a life preserver. With this promise in mind, help me look at those things that trouble me most and keep me up at night, cause me some anxiety and stress, from a different perspective: from Your promise. Today, I am picturing and imagining the situation of……. from Your beautiful, powerful promise. Even as I do so, my heart is being lifted and my mind less burdened and troubled. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen

Inspiration for Today’s Prayer:

I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert—Isaiah 43:19b 

 Gracious God, You are the God of the old, the God of the present, and You are also the God and Lord of the “new”. If we’re going to walk with You, we need to learn to keep up with You; You are always doing something new even when we cannot yet perceive it. This is the time of year—while the year is still fresh and new—that I find myself doing things like writing last year’s date on things, or treating something that has been made new, like it was the same old…I pray give me that mind and spirit and heart that is will to embrace the “new” You have brought, even the “new” You are doing, though it is still invisible to my physical eyes. Additionally, I ask You to continue doing new things in my life and circumstances—even when the “new” You do or cause is uncomfortable at first—like a pair of new shoes that I need to break in. I don’t want to get stuck in the past or be that person that refuses to budge from the old. Help me to sense and look forward to all the “new” things You will do not only in this new year, but in my life and the lives of those around me. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen

Inspiration for Today’s Prayer:

Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?—Isaiah 43:18-19 

  Heavenly Father there is great benefit in being practical in my approach to life and decisions. The Bible has a great deal to say and teach us about the quality of being a practical person as opposed to someone who lives without regard to what is wise and best for his or her life. I pray to have that needful sense of practicality in my life and to be able to make the wisest choices for my life; whether my choices impact only me or others. Help me look at my choices, paths and plans from a broader point of view and whenever possible to have a futuristic perspective, understanding how something may impact me down the road. May I be able to live practically concerning my health, my finances, my purchases, the way I spend my time, even regarding the commitments I make to others. Thank You for the many reminders to live out my faith through actions that reflect Your will and wisdom, demonstrating my commitment to practical living as a woman of God. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen 

Inspiration for Today’s Prayer:

Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight—Proverbs 3:5-6  

  Heavenly Father, when I think back over the years and reflect on the things that ended up revealing Your goodness and plans, I know I have a story to tell. Like the popular song says, I’ve had some good days, but I’ve also had some hills to climb. Some of my most difficult seasons have ended up being the very places and times You revealed Your great kindness and beautiful plans for my life. At the time it was difficult to see. I may not have recognized my struggles and pain as working out something good for my future and life. I’ve been truly blessed through hindsight. Thank you Lord, for giving me that rear-view perspective! I pray, let my eyes be opened and have depth even while I am going through something hard; even while I’m in my storm; even while my heart is in pain. Help me to know that all these things—though unpleasant at the time—are becoming part of my story that I can tell and may always be willing to tell and share my story with those who can benefit and learn and be encouraged.     

Inspiration for Today’s Prayer

No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it—Hebrews 12:11 

  Heavenly Father, Your Word is living, active, timeless, and powerful. It can expose the thoughts and intentions of my heart. In moments when tension and stress rise within and around me, guide me by Your Spirit of truth and help me surrender every anxious thought to You: I trust in Your divine judgment and peace. When life saps my energy and causes me to lose motivation to face my day, or takes away my sense of excitement and anticipation, when my energy or strength is sapped it’s hard to live life to the fullest. I’m discovering that It’s impossible to have the strength or motivation I need without staying in Your Word. When I return to Your Word and seek You in prayer something miraculous happens, I find I am able to embrace all You have for me, and even in my weakest moments I can be strong and radiant. Your Word renews me and refreshes my soul; it helps me take courage and walk with confidence; I am filled with peace, and my hope is restored. Whether I am following a daily reading plan or simply opening Your Word and reading what’s in front of me I receive what’s needed at that moment. Truly the Word of God is a living, timeless, and powerful Word. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen 

Inspiration for Today’s Prayer:

For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any double-edged sword; it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts, and attitudes of the heart—Hebrews 4:12

  Holy Spirit, because You are with me, I can do more than get by, I can flourish. Even in my most difficult and trying times I can do more than make it through. Your presence and indwelling assure that I can do more than hang by a thread. Because You’re living within me, I’m more like a well-watered garden fruitful and abundant; more like that tree that’s planted beside the water whose roots are well nourished and never run dry. I can do more than drag myself through my day or through life; I have energy to spare! Your power overflows me with hope. You refresh me when I feel weary and when I am uncertain You guide me. Thank You for lending me Your power so I can live my life with purpose. As I surrender my will to Yours I have so much peace! Thank You for filling every corner of my heart and helping me experience the fullness You provide and bring to me as Your daughter. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen

Inspiration for Today’s Prayer

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit—Romans 15:13

 Heavenly Father, it feels really good when we can get rid of some of the clutter in our living spaces or the place where we spend a great deal of time. When we can finally see the surface of our desk or clear our countertops. Something about eliminating clutter can be so freeing; like the weight of the world has been lifted from us. The same feeling happens when we can declutter our soul. The simple act of unburdening our soul to You can do wonders for us. Confession can make us feel lighter, less burdened and heavy. It’s as though we have been set free from prison; and we have been! Sometimes we’re not even aware of how heavy and weighed down we feel until we begin to talk to You. With each prayer our heart feels lighter, our conscience is clearer, the guilt of our sin evaporates, we have strength to press on. Your promise becomes more real to us than it’s ever been. Thank You Father for this simple act of confession. Only a loving, compassionate, all-knowing God could provide such a simple way we can declutter spiritually. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen 

Inspiration for Today’s Prayer

Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper, but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy—Proverbs 28:13  

Heavenly Father, like women everywhere I want to start this year off in a good way by setting some achievable goals for myself. Most of my goals are the normal ones most women set: develop an exercise routine I can stick with, follow a healthier diet, lose a few pounds, clear out some of my clutter, spend more quality time with loved ones, friends and so forth. You already know those goals and areas I’ll struggle with; those I won’t stick with long enough to see any lasting results, and those that will become a part of my daily routine and practices. But these aren’t the only goals I have in mind. I also have some that are more spiritual in nature like prayer and worship and cultivating a heart that’s more like Yours and doing those things that are more in line with my faith and values. It’s my desire to experience greater spiritual depth and growth. I long for that level of intimacy with You where I can hear Your voice, sense Your presence with me, and know I’m operating within Your will, and I know that entails drawing closer to You. I’m so thankful I can lean on You Lord as I work on my goals. I can turn to You as often as I need, especially when I’m tempted to fall off the wagon and return to old habits. I’m excited to turn over a new leaf just like the pages of my calendar have turned to a new year. Lord, grant me the strength I need to stay consistent in the good things I pursue and to experience victory in the places and areas that are important for me. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen 

Inspiration for Today’s Prayer

I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus—Philippians 3:14

 Heavenly Father, from the beginning of creation, starting with mother Eve, You remind us of the profound value and purpose of women. We are more than pretty faces to be looked upon, shapely bodies to be ogled. We are more than what can be seen on the outside and appearance, we have intellect, are knowledgeable, and have beautiful, loving hearts. We can take care of our homes and family, nurture those in our care, and we can also have an entrepreneurial spirit. We can be leaders in our community, stand up for the rights of others, and help our faith community flourish and grow. You shape us with wisdom, courage and compassion, and call us to honor and uplift one another. May every woman find strength in Your guidance, courage in trials, healing in Your presence, and joy in Your promises. Inspire Your feminine creation to lead with grace, speak with love, and serve with humility. We pray, surround women with encouragement, protection, and opportunities to flourish in this new year. May Your Spirit empower us to shine in every sphere of life, reflecting Your goodness and purpose. In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen

Inspiration for Today’s Prayer

I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful; I know that full well—Psalm 139:14