Morning Devo

Today’s devotional is about the story of Esther and her courageous decision to fight for her people. As queen, she could have remained comfortable and distant from their suffering, but instead, she chose to share in their pain. Rather than offering help from her royal position, she walked alongside them through every step of their distress.

The line that immediately comes to mind is, “Break my heart for what breaks Yours.” I never truly understood the depth of that concept until recently, and I realize it’s because God has been preparing my heart to feel more deeply.

For most of my life, I was extremely selfish, focused on my own needs and desires. I never thought I had the capacity to carry others’ burdens. But this year, I prayed to be able to share in the struggles of others, asking God to break my heart for what breaks theirs.

The first time I heard this line was from Anna, a missionary in Haiti. I was inspired by her bravery and compassion as a young woman with so little, yet overflowing with love for others. Being around her, I could sense the immense love she received from God, and that day I prayed to have that same kind of heart—to care for others with sincerity.

Over time, I’ve noticed that this kind of love is growing in me naturally. Interestingly, after praying those prayers, I often surprise myself with how I respond to others and how I handle stress—it seems to lighten in ways I never expected. My mind had anticipated more sufferings, but instead, there is a warm feeling from the weight. I’ve realized that I can’t give what I don’t have, and the fact that I’m now able to offer love is clear evidence that God has filled me with more of His. It’s truly the best thing for my soul.

I am here for the people 

Last night got really intense when I was talking to one of my business partners as we were preparing the presentation for a big client. The other two partners couldn’t make it, and that left us feeling unsupported. My partner sensed my doubt, and I know my negativity was affecting him. So, I took a break during the meeting and spoke with my husband for a bit.

It made me reflect: what do I truly want from this company? The reason we started this business together is that we met, got along well, became friends, and felt there was a purpose behind it. Things have progressed much faster than we anticipated, and we’ve been truly blessed—we’ve just started, yet we have an office, income, and potentially big clients on the horizon. But I realized the reason I felt overwhelmed is that it began to feel like just another job—working hard, making money—exactly the path I’m trying to avoid. I carried that question in my heart as I went to sleep.

This morning, the Lord already had the answer prepared for me. What I want from running a company with different partners is to be there for people. I’m no longer motivated by money or fame—I want to help heal hearts, including my own. Thank you, Lord, for guiding me every step of the way.

Battlefield

I quickly finished my work, and went on a hike with friends. The hike began foggy and rainy, but that didn’t stop us. As we pressed forward, the fog lifted and the rain ceased, gradually revealing the breathtaking beauty of God’s creation.

Radiant white clouds gently cradled the snow-kissed peaks, while shimmering lakes, like silver chains, lay humble at the feet of these towering giants. Our hearts swelled with wonder, as the vast beauty unfolded before us, and in that moment, God’s healing and love cascaded through every fiber of my being, filling me with awe and peace.

Although it was a full-day hike, it felt peaceful, and surprisingly, I wasn’t tired at all. Afterward, we went to our favorite restaurant and shared a meal together.

Oh Lord, thank you for how you arrange the events in my life, both the hard days and the perfect ones. I see it now—it’s a battlefield, where you silently fight for us in our pain. And when the good times come, I can sing and praise, celebrating the victories you’ve won for me.

The experience of today’s hike, being close to people and creating positive moments, affirms in my soul that this is what God wants me to do in both my work and my life. They’re never separate—they share the same purpose: to be there for others.