What does it mean to be loved by God? Denise Swatsenbarg felt God’s love as a child. She understood John 3:16 (NIV), “for God so loved the world,” and that God loved her, too. But Denise’s ability to sense God’s love faltered after she was abused. She struggled for years until, as an adult, she prayed the ”Our Father” and knew she needed to write a forgiveness letter.

In her story, Renee Batts wrestles with the question, "How do I know God is real?" during a challenging season that included a divorce and, five years later, meeting a man who seemed like an answer to her prayers. When Nick passed away suddenly, Renee was devastated — and left wrestling with her faith and belief in God all over again. God answered in an unexpected way.

Explore a heartfelt story of a divine appointment when the author felt God's invitation to pray during a surprising encounter at a doctor's appointment.

Many years ago, Tracy Souza’s students left a Post-it Note on her desk. She carries it still, as a reminder that God leaves messages of hope and love even in the simplest of moments.

Jana Fraley’s life revolved around helping her parents on their ranch in Wyoming. Her world was upended when her mother died suddenly. Eventually, God helped her find peace on her family’s land.

Tears ran down Jill Dobrowansky’s face after she heard God whisper: “Welcome home my child.” When Jill overcame her fear of returning to church after 13 years away, God welcomed her home.

Evelyn Sherwood wasn’t sure she could handle the final days of her mother’s battle with cancer. Then, family, friends and God intervened.

God is patient: When Merideth Tullous’s husband was working night shifts during the COVID-19 pandemic, including taking the precautionary steps of distance and quarantine for his family’s safety, God taught her patience. In fact, she learned the depth of God’s patience.

When Jen’s son was diagnosed with epilepsy and high-functioning autism, they struggled. But when she found a church community and leaned into prayer, Jen found hope.

Kerrah was devastated by a miscarriage, the loss of her first baby, and cried out to God: Do you even love me? His answer soothed her heart and brought peace to her soul.

Payton didn’t feel equipped to serve in an inner-city school, or with youth who grew up with very real challenges. But God provided a way.

Heather was born with a prominent birthmark on her face, a source of bullying and pain. And yet, she found peace with how God created her: beautifully in his image.

Tim Walters always wanted to work for his hometown paper, but he never imagined writing a column about parenthood — or inviting the entire community to his daughter’s baptism.

Diane Haskins had a dark night of the soul. But then came a beautiful rescue — and a beautiful mess with a dog named Bonnie.

Becky often drove by the men’s prison near her home. She’d wonder about life inside, sometimes allowing her thoughts to be laced with condemnation. Then an unlikely friendship with a man inside changed her perspective on incarceration — and God’s presence.

When Kari’s mom was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, she knew her and her mom’s life were about to change. What she didn’t expect was how God revealed himself in tender moments of love.

God’s love for us: Sandi Bergman shares how she moved to a small town to distance herself and live a health-focused life with a like-minded community. She moved home reluctantly, yet she’s seen God’s love and blessings since returning home. At her church, she discovered God's personal love and provision and realized her fitness allows Sandi to serve God and care for the many horses, pets, and people she now cares for.