Need Encouragement?
This has been a hard nearly two years. I’m tired. You may be as well. Constant trouble generally leads to physical fatigue and, often, spiritual fatigue.
God’s word speaks to us about this, and shows us what to do to be encouraged.
David was greatly distressed because the people spoke of stoning him, for all the people were embittered, each one because of his sons and his daughters. But David strengthened himself in the Lord his God. (1 Samuel 30:6)
“Strengthened” is sometimes translated “encouraged.” David encouraged himself in Yahweh his God.
How do we encourage ourselves in the Lord? Here are seven sources:
God. God is a God of mercy, compassion, and lovingkindness. And you, if you have put your belief and trust in Christ, are His adopted child. You are sealed for eternity. Remember who He is and what who you are to Him.
Now may the God who gives perseverance and encouragement… (Romans 15:5)
Christ. He died so that we may live. He constantly intercedes for us. He overcame the world so we can be of good cheer through this trouble. We are His family, His friends. Remember who He is and what you are to Him.
The Holy Spirit. Because we have received Christ as Savior and Lord, we have the Holy Spirit dwelling in us and guiding us to all righteousness. Remember who He is and what you are to Him.
The Scriptures. Read. Study. Meditate on God’s word.
Whatever was written in earlier times was written for our instruction, so that through perseverance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. (Romans 15:4)
Prayer. Pray for yourself. Ask others to pray for you (e.g., James 5:13). And pray for others as well.
Church. Be in a good church where you hear excellent exposition of God’s word, have godly leaders and can seek wisdom and advice.
Fellowship. Be in a community of believers. Have mature Christian friends. Be a friend to others. (e.g., Ecclesiastes 4:9-12)
… that I may be encouraged together with you while among you, each of us by the other’s faith, both yours and mine.(Romans 1:12)
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Father, please help us grasp who You are and what we are to You. Please help us understand that You are sovereign over everything and everybody all the time, and that You bring good out of whatever happens in the lives of believers. Please give us mature Christian friends, and, likewise, help us be friends of others. Help us pray. Thank You for Your word. Help us walk in a manner worthy of You.
