There is much stress and discouragement in these last days. But the Lord wants us to be encouraged and to encourage others.
Deuteronomy 1:38
But Joshua the son of Nun, which standeth before thee, he shall go in thither: encourage him: for he shall cause Israel to inherit it.
Deuteronomy 3:28
But charge Joshua, and encourage him, and strengthen him: for he shall go over before this people, and he shall cause them to inherit the land which thou shalt see.
Seventeen times the Bible says to be of good courage.
Psalm 27:14
Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD.
Many times in David's life he had reasons to be could discouraged. For instance, when his own child died, and the fact he had to run for him life continually because King Saul was trying to kill him. Also when the city was invaded and their wives were taken they wanted to stone him. And we think we have it bad! But did he give in to discouragement?
1 Samuel 30:6
And David was greatly distressed; for the people spake of stoning him, because the soul of all the people was grieved, every man for his sons and for his daughters: but David encouraged himself in the LORD his God.
No he could encourage himself in the Lord. How could he do that in such times as this? Because he knew the Lord is faithful and always there for us in times of trouble.
Joshua 1:9
Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.
John 14:27
Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.
Jesus said not to let our heart be troubles. When we keep our eyes on the Word of God instead of on the situation then we will begin to overcome dicscouragement. Waiting on the Lord is not just waiting, doing nothing. But it is taking the time to minster to the Lord. And as we minister to Him, he will minister to us. He is our peace. We can run to Him at any time.
Psalm 46:1
God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.
Proverbs 18:10
The name of the LORD is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.
Psalm 3:3
But thou, O LORD, art a shield for me; my glory, and the lifter up of mine head.
Thank You Lord for lifting me up and filling my heart with gladness!
