Larry Davies

Larry Davies has been a pastor for over thirty years of small, medium, and large churches. He’s also been a District Superintendent supervising 90 churches and pastors. Larry is the author of eight books, all based on his devotional column “Sowing Seeds of Faith” published in newspapers and online. “A Daily Dose of Godly Encouragement: Medicine for Tough Days” provides stories, Bible study and prayer challenges in short easy to read and understand daily devotions. You will read amazing stories of people and churches accomplishing remarkable ministry. There are stories of healing and mission trips, wild weddings, surfing, the Beverly Hillbillies and Elvis. Paul once gave this advice to a young preacher named Timothy: “Do not waste time arguing over godless ideas and old wives’ tales. Spend your time and energy in training yourself for spiritual fitness. Physical exercise has some value, but spiritual exercise is much more important, for it promises a reward in both this life and the next. This is true, and everyone should accept it.” (1Timothy 4:7-9) One person wrote: “I wanted to let you know that your devotions hit me like a ton of bricks at precisely the right moment. Currently I am struggling with getting back on my feet after my move back home. I have had a difficult time finding suitable work. Your stories and Scripture were both fitting and comforting. No, it is not what job I have and it is not how much money I make. What is important is that this present situation in my life is a God-given opportunity for me to learn from my mistakes and grow in character and in Him. Thank you for reminding me of that.” Stories also illustrate what is possible if we will step out of our comfort zone, listen to God’s prompting and take risks. For example: A normal day at a local high school became a tragedy for a young sixteen-year-old boy full of enthusiasm and friendly mischief. During tennis practice he suddenly dropped to the ground clutching his chest. Within minutes this vivacious young man was gone. People appeared from all over. School officials opened the auditorium and encouraged the students to gather. A minister’s wife got word to fellow pastors. The students began to gather in small groups sharing memories and tears. Just as we were preparing to leave, the father of one of the students said: “Before we go, I think we should pray. Let’s form a circle and hold hands. I’ll start and the rest of you join with me.” Nearly one hundred crying parents, students, pastors and school officials formed a giant circle and bowed their heads. First one, then another offered heartfelt prayers to God for comfort, courage and strength. For a few precious moments, we could all feel the Holy Spirit of God in our circle of mourners. That parent was a Godly influence amidst the intense grief. This story illustrates how one person can make a huge difference in our community. Living and surviving today is tougher than ever. Through the years, disagreements became arguments and arguments became increasingly divisive and violent. Christians and churches must take a stand but how? Expressing anger, complaining, talking politics will only provoke more of the same. How can we respond in a way that promotes God’s healing grace? As you read this collection of daily stories, I pray you will receive medicine for your tough and challenging days, and I pray you will find motivation to reach out to others with that same medicine of Godly encouragement and comfort.