Be Encouraged!

Ever had a time in your life when you were just flat-out discouraged? A time when your thinking sounded a lot like — What’s the use? What difference does it make? Who cares! Whatever! Ever wished you could just take off to another planet and start all over?

I read recently that the Hayden Planetarium in New York City solicited applications to be part of the first crew to journey to another planet. Eighteen thousand people responded! A panel of psychologists examined the applications and concluded most of those who applied were discouraged with their lives and wanted to start over somewhere else.

All of us who have experienced discouragement whether in the form of a “Whatever!” day or serious enough to apply for cosmic relocation can be encouraged by the message of God in the following scriptures. So take time to ponder God’s word before you make that reservation to blast-off!

“And the very hairs on your head are all numbered. So don't be afraid; you are more valuable to him than a whole flock of sparrows” (Luke 12:7 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" (John 16:33 NLT).

“Now glory be to God! By his mighty power at work within us, he is able to accomplish infinitely more than we would ever dare to ask or hope. May he be given glory in the church and in Christ Jesus forever and ever through endless ages. Amen.” (Ephesians 3:20-21 NLT).

“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily hinders our progress. And let us run with endurance the race that God has set before us” (Hebrews 12:1 NLT).

“And now, all glory to God, who is able to keep you from stumbling, and who will bring you into his glorious presence innocent of sin and with great joy. All glory to him, who alone is God our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Yes, glory, majesty, power, and authority belong to him, in the beginning, now, and forevermore. Amen” (Jude 24-25 NLT).

Be encouraged!

— Bob Clark

8/5/2003