" IN TIMES OF DISCOURAGEMENT "

Today's subject is one that frankly we usually don't have a problem sharing about. Yes I admit that I do find myself getting disappointed in others from time to time. What causes me to be taken back is a flaw in some peoples character. My problem is when another tells me that I will do this or that and they don't. I take what I say and especially what I promise very seriously and when another does not I'm disappointed.

How are you to be around when you're discouraged? Are you your normal sweet self, who puts others before yourself? We all experience discouragement from one time or another. Between you and me the trick is to get over it by looking to God, the author and finisher of our faith. I must be honest and share with you that I'm still a work in progress. Keep your faith in times of discouragement, no matter how many times you attempt to climb that mountain (translation: problem). Is there a difficult conflict that you find yourself facing again and again? Don't give in when you know what is the right thing to do, I find that persistence usually is rewarded.

Listen, when you do experience discouragement pray, bring what's on your heart to God. Each of us must face times of barrenness when nothing seems to come to fulfillment either in our work, service, or even relationships. It truly can become arduous to pray in faith when we feel so incompetent. Please press on through, as you will discover prayer opens the way for God to work. Prayer is the antidote for discouragement, tell God how you truly feel and leave your problems with him. Some of you saints out there just may be feeling sorry for yourselves, you may be lonely and even discouraged. If and when you are tempted to think that you are the only one remaining faithful to a task, don't stop to feel sorry for yourself.

Self-Pity will dilute the good you are doing. You can take it to the bank that others even if you don't know them they are, faithfully obeying God and fulfilling their duties. The only cure for weariness and despair is focusing on God's purposes. If you are overwhelmed by an assignment, tired, and discouraged, remember God's purpose for your life and his special purpose for the undertaking.
Turning a bad situation into a good one in times of indecision, financial burdens, family conflict, church conflict, or even the loss of our jobs. How we act in such situations will reflect what we believe. Look for ways to demonstrate your faith even in bad situations. Whether or not the situation improves, your faith will grow stronger.

Remember, we all have our times of discouragement, but it's how rapidly we think to turn to Jesus.

Until next time...

Jim