1.

When you are feeling lost, pray. There is nothing like a quiet moment with God on a crazy day to make you feel grounded.

2.

Even if you feel abandoned or hurt, know that God’s looking down on you. He might not answer your prayers in the way you want Him to, but that doesn’t mean He isn’t listening.

3.

Remember that every little bit counts—every smile, every positive interaction, every whispered prayer. It might not seem like you are making huge strides in your walk with God, but the little things you do reflect His love. And though they are little things, they can make a profound impact.

4.

Just because you are a woman of faith doesn’t mean that this road will be easy. It’s okay to admit defeat, frustration, confusion, or fear. You are not weak for being human. Remember that you are strong in Him.

5.

Your Bible is a beautiful tool. Open it when you need a reminder of God’s love. Open it out of habit. Open it because you cannot get through a day without it. Open it because it is God’s word poured out for you, and seek refuge in His words.

6.

Know that you are not alone. There are hundreds, thousands, millions of other women trying to find their way, just as you are. Seek out relationships and friendships that will encourage you, and people that will love and guide you along your spiritual journey. Know that there are so many people who love you, and a God who loves you even more.

7.

There will be days when your heart feels defeated, when you will try to make an impact on someone or something and you will fail. These will be hard days, yes, but you cannot give up. Remember that everything is possible in Him, and with Him you will not fail. Continue forward. You are strong. Your God is stronger.

8.

Be a blessing to others. Hold open doors, exchange smiles, let someone else go first, lend a listening ear or a helping hand. When you do good works for others, God looks on you with pride. Show His grace by being graceful to everyone around you.

9.

Remember that you are a child of God—beautiful, strong, smart, powerful, and loved.

10.

Imperfection is a natural part of being human. You will be criticized for the ways you don’t measure up to the perfection of your religion. Nod your head but don’t hang your head. Always try to be the best you can be. Always try to live in the image of God. But know that you cannot be flawless and blameless, and that your God loves you anyways, unconditionally.

11.

It doesn’t matter if you haven’t found ‘the one’ yet. Remember to always lean on God and trust in His timing. He will bring the perfect man to you when the time is right.

12.

Keep fighting for your faith. Challenge the perspectives of the people around you with respect and dignity. Show God’s love and be open and willing to share the gospel with others.

13.

Do not be so easily swayed by the ways of the world. Sometimes the world sparkles and shines, entices and begs you to come closer. It looks so wonderful, these artificial things and this superficial happiness—but those are both short-lived. Remember that you have an eternal life in Heaven and eternal joy in God. His love is far greater than earthly things will ever be.

14.

Don’t be afraid to speak up and speak out. You have a story in you that the world needs to hear. Try to bring others to Christ, try to share the good news, try to be a disciple whenever you can. You can, and will change lives.

15.

Not every woman is like you, you know. You have a different way of acting and speaking, a different way of carrying yourself, a different way of loving and respecting your body. No, you are not strange or crazy. No, you are not less special. No, you are not better than any other sinner. But you are wonderfully, beautifully made in Christ. Stand firm in your morals and decisions. Do not change yourself for others or for love. Be proud of your body, your faith, your soul, and your being. Be proud of your God.

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Marisa Donnelly is a poet and author of the book, Somewhere on a Highway, available here.