Encourage the Disheartened
In 1 Thessalonians 5:14, Paul says to his people, “We urge you, brothers and sisters, encourage the disheartened”.
That's a great lesson for us today. Are you encouraging the disheartened? You don't need to look very far to see people who are disheartened in this life, and I pray that we will always encourage those who are disheartened. I pray that our churches are places of encouragement that we don't further discourage our brothers and sisters when they are with us.
Finding Strength in Faith Amidst Adversity
Remember, in those days, the Christians were going through some really great persecution and tribulations, and I imagine that they would have gotten disheartened pretty quickly. But today, God's people are also under attack in different ways, and it's easy to get disheartened in the faith.
Take courage today! I want you to know that God is with you. And I want you to know that whatever difficulties you're going through, he will give you strength. And he is still in control. You can trust in him. Keep believing. Keep walking. Get up and keep going today. Don't let your situation paralyze you. But get up and keep going.
I promise you, God will be with you if you call on him. The word “encourage” means to give courage to. Do you need courage today? Take courage in Jesus. Take courage in your Saviour. He has got power for you today, even if you are not feeling it yourself. Lean on him and find new courage.
Preaching the Good News to Yourself: Finding Strength and Courage
And all through the day, preach to yourself. Preach the good news to yourself: “God is with me. God is encouraging me. God is my strength and my rock and my salvation.” I know how hard it is to keep your head up sometimes, I do. I know how easy it is to get shaken by the things that the world throws at you, but I pray that these things will not kick you down even further today. But with God's spirit in you, you will rise and walk in freedom because your faith pulled you out of that slump.
Take hold of his outstretched hand and walk with courage today. He is with you. He is with you.
