1 ATHESALONIKE 5:16-18

Raising kids is tough, even in the best of circumstances. In this seven-day devotional, real-world parents — who also happen to be staff members at YouVersion — share how they apply principles from God’s Word to this important aspect of their lives. Each day’s devotional includes a Verse Image you can use to help you share your own journey.

The Bible tells us that "in His presence is fullness of joy" and that "the joy of the Lord is our strength". Joy isn't simply another emotion; it is a fruit of the Spirit and one of the best weapons in your arsenal to fight against discouragement, depression, and defeat. Learn what the Bible has to say about joy, and strengthening yourself to become a defiantly joyful Christian.

Learn how best to pray, both from the prayers of the faithful and from the words of Jesus Himself. Find encouragement to keep taking your requests to God every day, with persistence and patience. Explore examples of empty, self righteous prayers, balanced against the pure prayers of those with clean hearts. Pray constantly.