Encouragement

In life we have to go through many experiences. Experiences that test our faith. Experiences that make us want to give up. We do not like to endure hardship and yet, as Saint Paul said, he could boast of his weaknesses. He was content to endure insults, hardships, persecution and trouble, and saw it as suffering for Christ, stating when I am weak I am strong. Because he could see beyond the present pain into the higher future purposes of God.

“We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance.  And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love.”
Romans 5:3-5 (New Living Translation)

Our problems produce strength of character and instil hope in us. Hope that does not lead to disappointment. I know too well about the low points of life but have found that there is light at the end of the tunnel. Our attitude is key to coming through tough situations. Our focus needs to be on Him daily,  for it is all too easy to dwell on the negative side of things. Memorising Scripture can help us recall the  promises in His Word. Then, when we go through trials such as the dark night of the soul, they can encourage and help us.

But we have God’s Promises

It is easy for us to be afraid when we see the results of living in a fallen world that has turned its back on God. Humans do terrible things to each other and it is often depressing to watch the news.

But God promises to be with us, whatever we go through and however we feel. We need to overcome our feelings and trust in our hearts and minds His promises, which prove true.  In times of trouble we can hold on to Him through His Word.

I will never leave you nor forsake you. Hebrews 13:5 (New King James Version)

But the Bible tells us not to be afraid.

Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9 (New King James Version)

But God will only allow us to endure what we can bear.

“No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.” 1 Corinthians 10:13 (New King James Version)

But suffering has a purpose just as there was in Christ’s suffering on the cross. “He who did not withhold his own Son, but gave him up for all of us, will he not with him also give us everything else?” Romans 8 : 32 (New King James Version)

But in Christ we can be more than conquerors. He comes to rule and reign and give us victory in each part of our lives as we allow Him.

“No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers,  nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 8 : 37 - 39 (New King James Version)

But we have a loving Father who knows what is best for us.

“For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope.” Jeremiah 29:11 New Revised Standard Version

But God has given us the Holy Spirit who is an advocate who leads us into truth.

“When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth; for he will not speak on his own, but will speak whatever he hears, and he will declare to you the things that are to come.” John 16:13 (New Revised Standard Version.

Take this to heart

Our Father holds us in the hollow of His hand. So my friend never give up. Press on into the wonderful future that He has for you. It will be worth it in the end. Bless you Linda.