Encouragement

I think we all could use some encouragement right about now. We need a positive message with hope blended in. Let’s take a time out and set the heaviness aside for a few minutes right now.

Let’s think higher.

The Holy Bible tells us the entire story of life and our future from God’s perspective. No matter where you are right now, let’s take a walk through its pages and visit some Scripture verses. These are given to everyone who has put their faith in Jesus Christ. Whether you’re reading these for the first time as a non-believer, or know them so well you can say them from memory, let’s look for promises to encourage us today…

Let’s begin with 1 Peter 5:7 (NLT) which says, “Give all your worries and cares to God, for He cares about you.“

Did you notice that tiny word “all”? It’s there for a reason. It doesn’t say “some,” it says all. Because God truly cares about you, you don’t need to carry the worries and cares about the past, present, or future any more. You can literally give them to Him. Lay down any burdens you have been carrying at His feet right now. Leave them there, and be freed from anxiety and fear. If you try to pick them up again, as soon as you realize it, lay them down again. If you’ve truly given your cares to Him they don’t belong to you anymore. Then claim this next promise for even more encouragement.

Romans 8:28 (NLT) says, “And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God, and are called according to his purpose for them.“

There’s another word for you to claim: “everything.” God the Father will use everything to ultimately work together for your good. Even in trials and detours there are lessons and outcomes that are part of His bigger plan. For starters, they can strengthen you, build greater trust in Him, and grow your faith. Your life can also inspire others who are going through similar trials. I know this to be true from my own life. 

If you’re in a time of trouble now, Jesus says in John 16:33 (NLT) “I have told you all this, so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth, you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.“

Then Isaiah 41:10 (NIV) says, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.“

If you feel alone and depressed, know this from Psalm 34:18 (NLT), “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; He rescues those whose spirits are crushed.” 

As for the events happening in this world that are beyond our control, rest assured and be at peace that God is the Righteous Judge. Nothing escapes His knowledge. It isn’t for us to take revenge. The Apostle Paul quotes Deuteronomy 32:35 when he writes this in Romans 12:19,  “Dear friends, never take revenge. Leave that to the righteous anger of God. For the scriptures say, ‘I will take revenge; I will pay them back,’ says the Lord.” He alone is sovereign over all and will do what is right in the end. 

These are just a few of the “gold nuggets” found in God’s Living Word. Keep finding more on your own. 

Finally, encouragement is rooted in hope that’s found in truth. Hope isn’t found in a greeting card with a poem in it. God Himself is the source of all truth. Be encouraged with this glimpse of what the eternal future will be like in Heaven for believers as God has promised. The BEST is yet to come! Revelation 21:4 (NIV):

“He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.’ He who was seated on the throne said, ‘I am making everything new!’ then he said, ‘Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.’”

AMEN!

RESET HIGHER: If this life is all there is, then hope is getting harder to find and the world will grow darker, as the Bible has foretold in the Book of Revelation. Without God, you’re on your own!  

For the believer in Jesus Christ and God the Father, this verse tells you where your help comes from – every moment of your life.

Isaiah 41:13 (NLT): “For I hold you by your right hand – I, the Lord your God. And I say to you, ‘Don’t be afraid. I am here to help you.’” 

Close your eyes and think about what these verses have said to you. Let them reach your heart on a deeper level. Let them give you encouragement and fill you with hope, truth – and joy!