Bible Reading: 2 Corinthians 12:8-10
We can all become discouraged with our spiritual growth and our ability to service other people. When things don't progress as we hope or expect or when there is little or no response, when all doors
seem to be closed, or when physical problems interfere with our life and ministry.
There are some things to keep in mind that will help us fight, overcome, short-circuit discouragement.
First, remember that we aren’t alone. Even the “greats” of the Bible had times of discouragement. For example, Paul had a physical problem. We don’t know exactly what it was, but dealing with any long-term ailment can be discouraging. Paul prayed again and again that God would heal him.
In 2 Corinthians 12:9, Paul wrote how God responded to these prayers saying, “But he [God] said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me.” Sometimes, God wants us to trust Him to get us through discouraging situations.
Second, remember to pray, pray, and pray some more. When discouragement is knocking on our door, we should increase the amount of time we spend in prayer. At those times, we need even more of God’s presence and grace in our lives. We need God to encourage us, strengthen us, and hold us up. Only God can refresh our hearts, souls and minds to the depths needed to fight of discouragement.
Third, remember, God chose each of us to be His children. We are His and He hand-picked each of us to do something special for Him and has given us everything we need to do that job. God won’t abandon us or leave us to do that job alone. When we accept Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior, God gave us His Holy Spirit to help us, to sustain us, to teach us, and to comfort and encourage us. God won't leave us nor let us down. We can depend on Him.
When discouragement comes knocking on your door, run to God. Lean on Him. Tell Him your troubles and your fears, then stay the course. Keep doing the job God gave you to do and trust Him to do His.
“Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the LORD.” Psalm 31:24
Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for being with me to strengthen and encourage me. In Jesus' name. Amen.