Encouragement is always desired but really rarely received. So called “encouragement” is often just flattery, and that can
To encourage is to inspire with courage, spirit and hope. Scripturally, it is joined with service, strength and fearlessness.
The source of its power comes from God through obedience to His Word. When you are truly encouraged, you are
confident, and your faith rises. You have a heart of hope and strength.
Look at Joshua’s encouragement, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be
dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” (Josh. 1:9) The Lord did not tell Joshua he was a good
leader or great fighter. God told Joshua he would be supported and get the victory over every challenge he faced, if he
obeyed the Word.
Joshua faced the task of leading grumbling, grumpy, desert-weary people across the Jordan into a land of fortified, well
armed, and established people. [Did I mention that they were really big?] God encouraged him, “You can do it.” All that
God promised to Moses was possible for Joshua. (Josh. 1:3)
What challenges face you today? Are you fast, rich, or smart enough to get it all done? KNOW THIS: God’s promises are
as sure for you today as they were for Adam, Eve, Enoch, Abraham, Sarah, Isaac, Rachel, Israel, Joseph, Moses, Miriam,
Joshua, Deborah, Ruth, David, Solomon, Daniel, Mary, Martha, John, Matthew, Mark, Luke, Paul, Eunice, Lois, Timothy and
most importantly ~ Jesus!
Be encouraged, “with God ALL things are possible.” (Matt. 19:26) Get in His Word. See that He is faithful to deliver, restore
and preserve you. That includes everyone and everything around you. GOD promises [even though it may not turn out like
we think it should] it will always turn out for His [and your] good.
If you can’t seem to get encouraged at home, get encouraged at your local church. Godly ministry builds people, because
Jesus builds people. Do you remember the return of the seventy He sent out? They said, “Even demons are subject to us
in Your Name.” (Luke10:17) Jesus encouraged them to be victorious, as He does all God’s children. Child of God, be
strong and of good courage! Do not fear and do not be discouraged. God Almighty is equipped, He is prepared and He is
willing to help. Be encouraged!
Love In Christ,
Gregory & Linda Emler
| Encouragement |