Jesus, Calm My Heart: 365 Prayers to Give You Peace at the Close of Every Day

by Ruth Schwenk

Before you turn out the lights, turn to Jesus.

When coming to the end of a day feels like coming to an end of ourselves, we often struggle to find the words to pray--or even know where to start. We just know we need God.

Knowing well this weariness, beloved author Ruth Schwenk comes alongside you, offering encouragement and simple prayers of peace and hope. Whether you're exhausted from worry, fear, unanswered prayers, pain, rejection, regret, or lack of joy or purpose, each of these 365 nightly prayers and journaling prompts will infuse hope into your life.

Even as your eyes drift shut, you will discover that the end of a day can also be the beginning of a new and deeper dependence on God. Because when you seek Him, you will find the One who never sleeps--and who strengthens us and works on our behalf even as we rest.

Genres: Prayer

385 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 28, 2023

About the author

Ruth Schwenk is the creator of TheBetterMom.com, and along with her husband, the creator of FortheFamily.org. She is a pastor’s wife, mom of four energetic kids, a lover of coffee, and dreamer of big dreams. She loves leading, speaking, and blogging. Ruth is the co-author of two forthcoming books with Zondervan. A graduate of The Moody Bible Institute, Ruth and her husband have been serving in local church ministry for nearly fifteen years.

Reviews

[BreeAdoresReading · Rating 5 out of 5]

There's nothing I love more than a beautiful book and this little gem, written by Ruth Schwenk is exactly that. Jesus, Calm My Heart is a treasure trove of prayer for today's woman that will lovingly walk with you through life. It's also a 365 day prayer journal that contains prompts where you can write down what's on your heart and experience the balm of peace in our busy world. I highly recommend Jesus, Calm My Heart. It will bless you! 💜

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful prayers for every occasion!!

[Allison Bullock · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is filled with prayers, Bible verses and spots for journaling each day- and each prayer is an encouragement to my soul!

Each night as I have been reading the prayers before bed, they have calmed my racing mind and anxious thoughts. The prayers have given me peace and uplifted my soul, centering me on what truly matters as I end my day. These prayers have given me words to speak to God when I don’t always know how to articulate what I’m feeling or where to start.

Day 92 begins - “Lord, I pray for the woman reading this right now who feels worn and weary. She needs You, Lord. Remind her that You are with her, and You are for her.” This prayer brought to mind a friend who is going through a hard season. I loved being able to share this entire prayer with her as an encouragement and specific way to know how to pray for her.

I am excited to continue reading these prayers - for myself and as a way to pray for others I know. This would be an amazing gift for any woman.

[Regina Piper Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jesus, Calm My Heart by Ruth Schwenk is a beautifully written, steady companion for anyone longing to end the day with peace rather than pressure.

Each prayer is gentle, Scripture-anchored, and deeply pastoral—meeting the reader right where they are. This is not a devotional that rushes you toward resolution; it invites you to exhale, to be honest before God, and to rest in His presence at the close of the day. Ruth has a rare gift for naming the quiet anxieties we carry and guiding them tenderly back to Jesus.

What I appreciate most is the consistency of tone and trustworthiness of theology. Night after night, these prayers feel like a faithful hand on your shoulder, reminding you that God is near, attentive, and kind. Whether you are overwhelmed, weary, or simply seeking a calm rhythm to end your evenings, this book offers exactly what it promises.

A gift to the anxious heart and a lasting resource I will return to again and again.

[Charla · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ruth Schwenk’s, “Jesus, Calm My Heart” speaks peace and trust to my heart in Christ. Every prayer (and I mean every prayer) resonated with me. I loved how Ruth wrote directly to, “the woman who….” At some point on my journey this side of heaven I was that woman. And the prayers themselves were spot-on what I needed/wanted to hear. They were brief prayers with select words – words that got to meat of matter. For me, the unique aspect of this book was the prompts that led me to make my requests to our Father. Having space to record my responses will surely become a sweet way to review my heart’s cry and recall His reply. Ruth’s book is most definitely a keeper for me. It is also a gift to gift those who struggle with calming anxious thoughts during troubling times in life. Her book is truly a source of calm amid life’s storms – one that assures me that The Anchor who holds no matter what.

[Lisa Phillips · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jesus, Calm My Heart is a beautifully written prayer journal that speaks for my weary heart. When life feels hard, author Ruth Schwenk, delivers heartfelt prayers that speak to the weight of life and the encouragement we all so often need. Her prayerful words come together in 365 daily prayers and prompts to help you to journal along the way. You will find much comfort and strength in the prayer process that Schwenk invites you to engage into your evening prayer time. If you are seeking a deeper connection to God through prayer, you will want to add Jesus, Calm My Heart to your daily rhythm. It has been life changing, especially on the days when I have no words, and filling my heart with so much hope.

[M & D Shaw · Rating 5 out of 5]

The simplicity of this books is so appealing for a evening read. A prayer, a promise and a verse to hang onto. This prayer really spoke to me, “Lord, I pray for the woman reading this right now who feels de-tached from everything and everyone. Give her an understanding of why she feels this way. Help her to see the need for engagement. Protect her from slowly drifting and instead draw her closer to You. Soften her heart and renew her love for You and for others.-Night 230”

I see this book helping so many women at the end of every day giving them Hope for another day after resting in the Fathers arms throughout the night with these promises in her heart.

[Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am writing this book review because it needs to be said. I needed this book, I am currently is a chaotic time of life with a teen age son fighting cancer and working two jobs - while trying to help raise two babies. Life is crazy, so this book is a good send because taking the time to read the prayers and bible verses this book offers me - helped me reconnect with my God and helps me refocus on what really matters.

This book is a must have for those who live a crazy life or just needs that down time at the end of the day. The prayers are specific and meaningful, and having a place to write your reflections helps put many things in perspective.

[Mandie Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been a fan of Ruth Schwenk's work for some time now. This book of prayers and journaling did not disappoint. "Jesus, Calm My Heart" is the perfect read for the woman that needs some extra encouragement at the end of the day! Being a woman...and a momma... is no easy task. We carry a heavy load every single day. This book has truly been a blessing to this momma's heart. I have looked forward to this reading time every night. I love how the nightly read includes not only a prayer, but also the Bible verse and a designated space to reflect and write out my feelings. I can't wait to see what Ruth has for us next!

[Marce Burns · Rating 5 out of 5]

This precious devotional has beautiful prayers guided by lovely author Ruth Schwenk. I feel like they were written for me at the right time and God is talking to me through these prayers that are so comforting and deep. They are even easy to memorize and have them with you whenever you feel discouraged or overwhelmed. I love Night 17, a reminder that God is in control. I am going through a health battle now and this prayer arrived at a good time to calm my heart. God loves us and He will fight the battle for us! I am sure that God will use this book to talk to many women in need of His love and peace.

[Elizabeth Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has 365 prayers meant to be read at night that are written for women going through different situations. It is perfect to read at night especially for someone like me who sometimes feels tense before going to bed. It has helped me to unwind and relax, and to feel hopeful before going to sleep. One evening I was reading this book, and the prayer was for the woman who is fearful of what is to come. I began to tear up and I actually felt a release of what I had been carrying. This book is perfect for women who need encouragement and comfort.

[Jennifer R. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great book of prayers! It is meant to be read at the end of the day and provides a daily prayer and scripture along with prompts to add specifics to what is going on in your own life. The prayers are detailed and help me to start my prayer time. Each prayer speaks to me and feels like it's been written just for me. I highly recommend this book to anyone who could use in-depth prayers that feel like they are coming from a close friend and anyone who wants to deepen their prayer life!

[Allison Huckle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This devotional is perfect for every single person! Each night ends your day with a practical, purposeful prayer! Often times I read this in the morning as well to start my day on the right track and create a positive tone and outlook for each day. Go grab a copy today and gift one to a friend! Each feels they were written just for me and my circumstances!

[Leigh Young · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the concept of the daily prayers and encouragement this book offers. Not only is it relatable, but I feel like it was speaking straight to my heart! Will be keeping this on my nightstand to come back to again and again. I love ending my day spending time with God, and this is the perfect companion to do just that.

[Mary Folkerts · Rating 5 out of 5]

Life is busy and sometime we get lost in the chaos. This book has short night time readings that are arrows pointing back to Jesus! Arrows pointing to where peace, exhale, and biblical wisdom can be found; a must have in today’s anxiety-driven life. Each reading is based on a verse of the Bible, a truth to rest your weary heart and mind on, and a place to journal your own prayer.

[Flora · Rating 5 out of 5]

All the prayers in “Jesus, Calm My Heart” have been resonating with me, and they are helping me to pray for my family and friends. This is a wonderful prayer book, and I love the verses that go along with each prayer. I appreciate that there is space to write down my prayer requests and responses to the prayers.

[Casey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This prayer devotional is a beautiful way to end your day. Reading this each night has provided me with so much peace and eased my anxiety and worries. This devotional includes 365 nightly prayers and provides a space for daily journaling. Whatever your concerns may be, whether it's anxiety, weariness, or fear, there is a prayer within these pages that can bring you the peace, calm, and hope you need at the end of each day.

One if my favorite prayers from this book right now is:

Lord, I pray for the woman reading this right now who is experiencing anxiety. Whatever fears she has, we know You can calm them. We know that nothing takes You by surprise, Lord. You are her Sovereign Father, and nothing is too hard for you (Genesis 18:14). Bring an unexplainable peace over her tonight. Help her to lay her worries at Your feet and trust that You will take care of her. Give her a night of restful Sleep and help her wake up feeling encouraged and hopeful, Lord. Amen.

[Regina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Picking up Ruth's book at the end of a challenging day is like having a nighttime chat with a trusted friend who understands life's struggles. Her heartfelt prayers are gentle yet powerful, all while gently guiding readers toward Jesus to find calm in the midst of life's storms. An excellent read!

[Theresa M. Miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

Do you feel weary, anxious or like you fell short by the end of your day? In this prayer book, Ruth has written 365 prayers for every woman and situation. It is a beautiful way to offer our day back to God and put our hearts at rest. For me personally, I enjoy rising to quiet time with God, but that soon turns into the whirlwind of a busy day. When I come to the end, after tucking my children into bed, I often have nothing left for myself. This prayer book, however, is the perfect way to cap off my day. I highly recommend it for all women, especially mothers who are in the same position as myself.

[Stephanie Hinz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jesus, Calm My Heart is such a precious gift! I have wanted a night-time devotional for quite a while and had never found what I was looking for until now. Author Ruth Schwenk has beautifully crafted 365 prayers to read and pray as we prepare to close our eyes and close our days. Often, after we've begun our days right with prayer and study of God's word and we've done our best to live lives that glorify Him, we still have heavy hearts as we end our days - and Ruth has lovingly filled that gap with this devotional. God leads me to just the right prayer when I need it. And often, He leads me to share a prayer and the coniciding scripture with another woman. I will treasure this devotional, and I'm certain that it will be a blessing to readers.

[Alaina Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an amazing inspiration book. I love the concept of reading a quick prayer and verse. And writing my thoughts of anxiety and worry. I have found over the last two weeks it leaves my thoughts on the page. And help me get out of my head. I actually have slept better and at peace.

From the fist day; I loved how practical it is. It starts with a pray on waiting. As a mom and wife I feel like I’m waiting for important answers alot! Rather it be my daughters. Or my husband. Or our everyday lives.
Ruth’s book touches on these topics.

To today’s which really hit my hard.
“Lord I pray for the woman who is wrestling with the whys” I am currently in a season of whys and waiting. And this book is actually what I need.
I truly recommend this book! @ruthschwenk

[Brandi Shanholtz collis · Rating 5 out of 5]

This prayer devotional couldn’t have come at a better time for me. I lost my mom in September so I found that I was losing my way and my joy and not sleeping well at night. As soon as I started reading the nightly devotionals they spoke to me especially Day 3 where Ruth mentions the woman who feels completely overwhelmed by life. Hello, that’s me! The deeper I dove into the book the more I started to feel God’s presence again and I am starting to get my Joy back. I am also sleeping through the nights. Who doesn’t love a little God time at night to help shut your brain down.
Ruth has outdone herself on this devotional!!

[Renee Gotcher · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have enjoyed the inspiring prayers and personal application of Ruth Schwenk's prayer prompts journal, "Jesus, Calm My Heart." Having followed Ruth on social media, I’m familiar with her prayer prompts, and on many occasions, I've been one of the women she talks about in the introduction who has commented online to say, "I really needed this tonight!" I’m thrilled that she has put prayers like these together into one collection that you can reach for anytime, any day.

In this 365-day prayer journal, Ruth shares brief yet content-rich prayers that are relatable and scripture-based, covering topics that will resonate with many. If you’re new to praying with a scriptural foundation, her format is a great model. I also appreciated the journaling aspect of each day’s prayer page offering space to personalize your prayer for that day.

While some prayer topics are general (for the woman who is “weary,” “discouraged,” or “lonely,” for example), many are also very specific (such as “received bad news unexpectedly” or “wants to let go of unhealthy coping mechanisms”). If you read it chronologically, you might find that a prayer doesn’t apply to you that day. In that case, you can choose to pray for someone you know who is in that situation or, as I imagine Ruth does, for those you don’t know who are experiencing this need. Another option is to use the table of contents to guide you to the topics that are applicable to you that day and jump around as needed.

However you choose to use this beautiful prayer book and journal, I believe you’ll find it to be a valuable resource. It’s ideal for anyone who wants to add scripture to their prayers, learn to pray for specific yet universal struggles, or receive guidance when they're struggling to find the words. I also appreciated that the prompts gave me an opportunity to pray for others, even if their needs haven’t been shared with me personally. This would make a great gift for any Jesus-seeking friend, especially if they are looking for tools to help with consistent prayer time.

[Nancy Ehlinger · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ruth Schwenk once again reaches into the hearts of women with understanding and compassion with her new book, “Jesus Calm My Heart.” At the end of the day, I often find myself mindlessly scrolling through the news or social media to keep my mind from obsessing over all the things I have done, all the things left undone, all the things I didn’t say, and all the things I did say and shouldn’t have. Do you end your days like that, too?
As I began ending my day reading a prayer from “Jesus, Calm My Heart,” I allowed my heart to turn to Jesus at the end of the day. I allowed the one who calms the storms to bring peace to my nights. Instead of allowing all those thoughts and worries from the day to spiral out of control, I am learning to end my day with the truth of God. Instead of the news of the day, which is never good, or the polished people of social media becoming my guideposts, God has shown me night after night that he is for me.
Often a prayer will remind me of something a friend is going through, and I will pray for her. Often I know God is speaking directly to me. “Day after day, she prays and hopes and dreams, but it seems like it doesn’t make a difference. Don’t let her give up. Fill her with hope, and hear her prayers for a new season. Make a way for her, Lord. She can walk in Your light, and she will not walk in darkness (John 12:46).” Jesus, Calm My Heart.
He will shine His light on your path. I know He has on mine.

[Deborah Rutherford · Rating 5 out of 5]

How comforting it is to have a nightly prayer that either ministers to my heart or one of my friends who called or texted me how she is hurting because of a loved one's passing. Another who is so tired and doesn't know what will happen next. How wonderful to have a prayer each evening, evidence of God's love and promise that He is listening to our every concern, tear, and question and that He answers too. This book has 365 prayers for each night of the year with a prayer and the perfect Scripture verse. Then, there is a prayer prompt and space for me to write down my prayer and what I need to say to God. This prayer book is delightful and brings peace and comfort to end the day knowing the love of God. This essential spiritual practice is radically changing those special moments before I lay down to sleep. I have read them in the day, too, and find that each time, it is precisely what I needed to read: the encouragement and reassurance of God's love for me. So beautiful is Ruth's love for her readers. These prayers are so tender.