Seeking Jesus Everyday Teen Devotionals by Jennifer Greene-Sullivan
As I sit down to write this post, it’s hard to believe that it’s been two months since I last picked up Seeking Jesus Everyday for a fresh read. I’ve spent countless hours in the editing process, pouring my heart into this devotional, and I’m filled with such a sense of gratitude and awe. It’s surreal to finally reach the end of this phase, knowing that this project—one that is so deeply personal—has become a resource for others.
“Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.” – Proverbs 16:3 (NIV)
I remember when I first began writing this devotional. It felt like I was diving into uncharted waters, sharing pieces of myself that I hadn’t fully explored or expressed before. The vulnerability required to write for teen girls, sharing my own struggles and triumphs, was an act of obedience and trust. It was never easy, but it was necessary. I knew that my experiences—though often painful—could be used to help others walk through similar struggles.
As I read through Seeking Jesus Everyday now, I feel the weight of the journey I’ve been on, both in terms of my own faith and the process of writing. My spirit had to groan and struggle, risking the rawness of my thoughts and feelings, because I believe these words are meant to not only speak to others but also to testify of the goodness of God in my own life. I’ve had to step far outside my comfort zone, but in doing so, I’ve witnessed the growth of my own relationship with the Lord.
“But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” – 2 Corinthians 12:9 (ESV)
It’s incredible how God uses our vulnerability to touch the hearts of others. I can’t help but marvel at how far He has brought me. The editing process has been both grueling and rewarding, but more than anything, it’s been transformative. I can see the areas where God has stretched me, and I’ve learned to embrace the vulnerability that allows His truth to shine through.
“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” – Jeremiah 29:11 (ESV)
This devotional was never just about writing; it’s about surrendering my heart to the Lord and allowing Him to use my story for His glory. As I read through it today, I’m reminded that writing these devotionals wasn’t just for the girls who will read them—it was for me, too. It was God’s way of refining me, of helping me grow in ways that only He can.
“I will bless the Lord at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth.” – Psalm 34:1 (ESV)
I’m so grateful for this process and the lessons that came with it. I look forward to the day when these devotionals are in the hands of those who need them most, knowing that they’ll carry with them a message of hope, healing, and the deep, abiding love of our Savior.
Sneak Peek of Day 20: Reflecting on Past Decisions
God is sovereign over all things, including the good and the bad decisions we’ve made. He does not waste a single part of our journey. He utilizes every decision to teach us, refine us, and draw us closer to Himself. Romans 8:28 reassures us that God can use all our experiences, even our mistakes, for our ultimate good and for His glory.
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” – Romans 8:28 (NIV)
Learning from our past is imperative in growing closer to Jesus. Sometimes, our decisions lead to shame and regret. Even in those past moments of failure, there is a lesson to be learned and an opportunity to trust God’s redemptive power.
When I was 25, I made a decision to divorce my high school sweetheart, even though we had a one-year-old daughter. I lived in such regret over my decision that for the next two years, I found my mind plagued with suicidal thoughts while I suffered from several mental health problems. Even at 46, I still find myself regretting my decision due to the harm it brought to my daughter’s relationship with her dad.
However, Jesus has changed my perspective on the scars that are left from this particular, horrible mistake. The Father has been in control of my life this entire time, and my changed perspective has brought patience for me to deal with struggles in my marriage today. His redemption and restoration created a faith in my daughter that helped her step out in obedience and attend ministry school in another state. Jesus will continue to show me His sovereignty through His plan in my daughter’s walk with Him.
Allowing Him to soften your heart and heal any shame or regret from past mistakes is the beginning of your new identity as a child of God. There will be moments when you won’t understand a situation, but you will have confidence in His sovereignty over all decisions that you will ever make.
Reflection: Trust in Romans 8:28. Even the mistakes and the pain we experience can be used by God for good. Surrender them to Him and allow His perfect plan to unfold in your life.
Conclusion: Learning to Rely on God in Vulnerability
Writing and sharing the truths of our past, especially the mistakes that still carry weight, requires an incredible amount of vulnerability. It’s through this vulnerability that God can do His deepest work in us. When we allow ourselves to be honest about the wounds, regrets, and scars, we open the door for God to heal, restore, and make us whole. Our journey toward healing and understanding God’s sovereignty doesn’t end with our mistakes—it’s a continual process where He walks beside us, holding our hand, guiding us with love and patience.
As I share these reflections, I realize that it is only by God’s grace that I am able to stand firm in my faith. It’s His love and sovereignty that give me the strength to move forward, knowing that even the hardest lessons can be used for His glory.
I encourage you to reflect on your own journey and ask God to show you the redemptive power He holds over your decisions, whether good or bad. Trust in His sovereignty, and allow Him to turn your past mistakes into powerful testimonies of His grace.
A Prayer for Vulnerability and Trust
Father God,
Thank You for Your incredible love and patience. I surrender my past to You—every mistake, every regret, every broken piece—and I trust that You will use it for Your good. I ask that You help me embrace vulnerability and learn to rely on You fully. Heal my heart where there is pain, and remind me of Your sovereignty in every decision I make. Help me to continue growing in my trust of You, knowing that Your ways are higher than mine, and that You are always working for my good.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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The Aging English Major 