The Upper Room Devotional 29 May 2026, Friday Message
Near to God
Sheryl Black Chai (Tennessee, USA)
Today’s Reading
Psalm 16:7-11
You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand. – Psalm 16:11 (NIV)
For many years my husband and I tried to have a baby. I always expected this to happen easily for us; when it didn’t, I felt betrayed.
As a result, I lost the desire I once had to spend time with God. Attending worship services, reading the Bible, and praying all became extremely difficult for me. I felt far away from God. Part of me, however, longed to make a connection, so I began putting my feelings on paper.
While writing honestly about my experience — which I felt I couldn’t share with others — I began to heal. I drew from a faith that I thought was no longer there. Yet there it was — deep inside. As I wrote, I once again felt near to God.
I am thankful for my community of believers and the privilege of worshiping together, but I am especially grateful for God’s presence when I write. As we face pain or misfortune, it is never too late to seek out new ways to commune with God.
Thought for the Day
Opportunities to spend time with God are all around me.
Prayer Focus
Someone with unfulfilled dreams
Today’s Prayer
Dear God, help us to be aware of new opportunities to draw near to you and feel your presence in our lives. Amen.
The Upper Room Devotional 29 May 2026 is a daily devotional magazine published in more than 30 languages and 100 countries around the world. The daily meditations are written by readers of the magazine and others interested in sharing their faith experiences through writing—both laity and clergy, published authors and new writers. Read More