November 19 Discouraged or Encouraged Isaiah 41:10
Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “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.” (Isaiah 41:10)
Have you ever been discouraged in your walk with Christ? Have you ever thought that your actions were not accomplishing anything useful or meaningful in the Kingdom? Have you ever wondered what God has for you to accomplish and if you are actually doing it? For me, there are days when it seems that I am accomplishing absolutely nothing! Out of bed early, Prayer, Bible Readings, more Prayer, then on the road to accomplish the day’s assigned tasks. Repeat the same the next day, and so on and so on… Additionally, there will be an unknown task or opportunity sprinkled in amongst the planned activities, like an emergency, or a funeral or a counseling session, etc.… “All in a day’s work,” it has been said! Absolutely confident in my “Calling,” yet still having difficulty “connecting the dots!” Just when I feel that my efforts are accomplishing absolutely nothing, I will receive a call or card or an email or Facebook posting that assures me that the message is actually getting through to other individuals along this journey! When I have these momentary thoughts of impending gloom or despair, or thinking “who is actually listening,” I think on Deuteronomy 31:8: “And the Lord, He is the one who goes before you. He will be with you, He will not leave you nor forsake you; do not fear nor be dismayed.” How can I be discouraged when HE goes before me, with me, and will not leave me or forsake me? Ever feel like this? God has provided all that we need to accomplish His Divine task in our Lives, and HE told us that we would experience difficulties, challenges and issues, yet HE instructs us to “Be of good cheer, HE has overcome the world,” so, Stand up, Speak up, and Look up, because HE has us completely covered! Each new day brings the opportunity to serve and to make a difference for the Kingdom. Begin each day with an attitude of submission, a Heart for Service and asking the Holy Spirit to release in you the power and presence necessary to accomplish great and mighty things, for Jesus, that day! It is human to feel discouraged, and challenged, from time to time, yet God has provided the Energy, Enthusiasm, and Excitement to continue to serve Him, regardless of the momentary circumstances! Stay Strong, Stay Focused …. THE BEST IS YET TO BE!