Tag Archives: #PauseAndPray

November 15th 2026 – A Fifteen-Second Pause

Scripture Reference:

“If any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” (2 Corinthians 5:17)

Reflection:

Frustration and negative thoughts can rise in a moment because of our circumstances, a difficult conversation, or someone who has hurt us. When they do, we can pause and gently ask: Is this thought drawing me toward God’s truth, or is it coming from my own hurt, fear, or frustration?

A friend shared a simple practice with me: take fifteen seconds to pause and reflect. In that small moment, we can breathe, invite God into what we’re feeling, and place our thoughts in His hands. We don’t have to pretend we’re fine or judge ourselves for feeling upset. We can bring our honest feelings to God and ask Him to guide our next words and steps.

We can also ask God to help us release the hurts and frustrations we’ve carried from the past. Let the old self—the one weighed down by resentment, fear, and pain—fall away, and embrace the person God is shaping us to be. The past may have left its mark, but it does not have to define who we are now. In God’s glorious light, we can find new life, walk in love, and become a light to others.

“Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things.” (Philippians 4:8)

As Philippians 4:8 reminds us, we can turn our minds toward what is true, honorable, just, pure, and lovely. When frustration rises, may we remember to pause—even for fifteen seconds—and ask God to help us let go, see clearly, respond with grace, and live in the fullness of His love.

“I can release what has wounded me, trust God with what I cannot change, and step into today as the person He is making me to be.”

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, When frustration, hurt, or negative thoughts rise within me, help me pause and turn to You. Give me wisdom to recognize what is weighing on my heart, and remind me that I don’t have to carry it alone. Help me release the pain, resentment, and disappointments I’ve held onto from the past.

Lord, renew my mind and soften my heart. Help me let go of the old self—the one shaped by fear, anger, or hurt—and grow into the person You are calling me to be. Teach me to see myself and others through Your eyes, to choose words that bring peace, and to respond with patience and grace.

Fill me with Your love and steady my heart when circumstances feel difficult. Guide my thoughts toward what is true, good, and life-giving. Let Your glorious light shine through me so I may bring kindness, hope, and encouragement to the people around me.

Thank You for Your mercy, for walking beside me, and for giving me the chance to begin again each day. Help me trust You with what I cannot change and follow You with a willing heart. In Jesus’ name, Amen.


Experience the Love of Jesus

Discover how Jesus’ unfailing love meets you where you are, carries you through life’s storms, and reminds you that you are seen, welcomed, and deeply loved. Read the devotion and be encouraged to rest in His grace and share His love with others.

In Jesus, you will find:

  • Peace instead of fear: He remains near through every uncertain moment.
  • Strength in weakness: His grace sustains you when you feel tired and overwhelmed.
  • Hope beyond circumstances: Your struggles do not define your worth or separate you from God’s love.
  • Courage to keep going: Jesus gives you grace for today and hope for tomorrow.
  • A deeper faith: Difficult seasons can draw you closer to God and teach you to depend on Him more completely.

If life has caused you to question God, today is an opportunity to draw nearer to Jesus. Bring Him your fears, surrender your burdens, and trust Him to guide you one step at a time.

Click here to learn how to invite Jesus into your heart and begin your journey of faith with Him.

Need Prayer or Request Prayer for Others?

We believe in the power of prayer. If you need prayer for yourself or someone else, we invite you to reach out.

Click here to submit your prayer request.

Please consider partnering with us to promote the gosple to a world that desperately needs it. Your support of just one dollar, helps us reach more people with this message of hope and love. Together, we can share the transformative power of Jesus and encourage others on their spiritual journey.

Click Here to Support Scriptural Seeds with a $1.00 Donation

Rob Lavallee

Scriptural Seeds Ministries

www.scripturalseeds.org