Proverbs 31 Womens Devotional - Encouragement for Today

Tracie Miles January 7, 2026

Your Story Isn’t Just Yours
TRACIE MILES

“We will not hide them from their descendants; we will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the LORD, his power, and the wonders he has done.” Psalm 78:4 (NIV)

For many years, I thought my story was ordinary. Yes, I had walked with God through mistakes, regrets, and struggles, but I doubted my experiences could mean much to anyone else. Nor did I care to share them.

The idea of vulnerability felt uncomfortable and unnecessary. Who would care? Who would benefit from hearing about my messy, imperfect journey?

But that changed when I began opening up through writing, ministry, and everyday conversations. Then I discovered a profound truth: God doesn't give us stories only for ourselves. He gives them so others can see His goodness too.

Every time I shared a piece of my journey, someone would often respond with “I needed to hear that” or “I thought I was the only one.” My ordinary story became extraordinary because it pointed others to an extraordinary God.

This is exactly what Psalm 78 is about. A prophet and musician named Asaph wrote this psalm to pass down Israel’s history — the miracles in Egypt, the Red Sea parting, the manna in the wilderness — as a living testimony. These weren’t just historical events; they were meant to be retold so future generations would trust in God.

In today’s key verse, Asaph declared this wasn't optional but a sacred responsibility: “We will not hide them from their descendants; we will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the LORD, his power, and the wonders he has done” (Psalm 78:4).

The Lord's goodness was too valuable to keep silent about. If one generation failed to tell their story, the next would lose access to crucial evidence of God's faithfulness.

The same is true for us today. Your story, filled with both joy and deep hardship, has been shaped by the hand of God. Even the messy or painful parts can become the very testimony someone else needs to believe God is real and still at work. When we keep our stories tucked away, the testimony of His faithfulness remains hidden. But when we share, we pass on courage, hope, and faith.

Maybe you’ve thought, I’m not a writer or speaker. What if others judge me? What if my story isn’t significant enough?

Friend, that’s exactly where faith comes in. Sharing your story isn’t about self-promotion. It’s about ministry. It's about shining a light for those walking through valleys you've known.

This January, rather than make a bunch of resolutions you’ll forget in a couple months, pause to reflect on the story God has been writing in your life. What chapters reveal His faithfulness? What moments of your weakness show His strength? What lessons could become lifelines for someone else?

When you steward your story, you’re not just recounting your life — you’re pointing to Jesus. Someone is waiting for the encouragement only you can give.

Lord, thank You for the story You’ve written in my life. Give me courage to share it in whatever You call me to do, trusting You to use my words to reveal Your faithfulness to others. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

OUR FAVORITE THINGS

Theology 101 is in full swing! But there’s still time to join this two-week journey through God’s Word. Each day, you’ll spend a few minutes reflecting on Scripture and applying truth to your life. The First 5 app makes it easy to stay on track with daily reminders, community conversations, and scriptural insights. Whether you’re on your morning commute or enjoying a quiet moment at home, you can meet God in His Word and see your faith grow deeper. Download the app today, and join other women who are pursuing a stronger, more confident faith.

ENGAGE

Your story matters more than you realize. Someone needs the hope, encouragement, and faith your testimony can provide. To help you overcome fear, believe your story is significant, and confidently share what God has done, download Tracie's free e-book on her website, From Silence to Story: A Simple Guide to Sharing Your Testimony with Confidence. This free guide includes nine encouraging chapters plus 26 journaling prompts to help you uncover and articulate your testimony. You don't have to let fear keep you silent. Your voice matters. Your story matters. Discover the courage to share it today.

Connect with Tracie on Instagram for an encouraging message today about the importance of sharing your story.