Discouraged.
It’s a powerful word.
Do you know it? I know this word so well I can tell you how many freckles it wears. No, it isn’t a person, but I often stare Discouragement in the face.
But ignorance is bliss until I’m not ignorant anymore. And then the “D” word slithers onto the scene whispering, This is not working. You can’t do this. You’re not doing any good. You didn’t hear God….
Like Eve in the garden I’m tempted to believe the serpent’s slimy words rather than God’s nudge, and I’m tempted to hang my head, trudge back home, lick my wounds, and (I hate this word)…quit.
The official definition of discourage is: “to deprive of courage, hope, or confidence; dishearten” (Webster).
That is exactly what discouragement does. It makes us lose our courage. We become disheartened.
The enemy is very good at this isn’t he?
Yet God commands you and me not to be discouraged. Why?
The Lord Himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged (Deuteronomy 31:8,9).
He is with you. He is with me. He is leading the way. It’s not about our talent or ability. It’s about His!
I’ve got to keep my eyes on the leader. Surely the serpent’s words are true; I’m not able to do what God has called me to do, but God has promised more than success. He’s promised to walk with me in the process.
[bctt tweet=”He is with us. He’s leading the way. It’s not about our talent or ability. It’s about His!” username=”wordsbyandylee”]
Maybe the Israelites’ Promised land quest wasn’t about the destination or the prize but rather the journey. The life changing journey with God.
David said, “Look to the LORD, and His strength; seek his face always” (1 Chronicles 16:11).
These are such powerful words. Look at the Hebrew counterparts to our English translations:
Look = Darash- the root word means to frequent or follow or pursue. By implication it means to ask or seek specifically in worship.
Seek= baqash- to search out (by any method); specifically in worship or prayer).
Always= Kov- constant, continual, perpetual, daily, employment daily.
If I may translate this into the Andy Lee Version (ALV), “Pursue the LORD and His strength, not your own, and seek his presence everyday.” For a more detailed teaching of this verse you can watch my Facebook Live broadcast.
Be ENcouraged today my friends. Get your courage on! God is with us. I’m praying that as we worship him daily, we will become aware of HIS presence and strength. For when we are weak then we are strong in HIS strength.
And the enemy can’t come against that. Amen!
Digging Deep in His Strength,
Thank you so much for such an encouraging post. I love what you said, to keep my eyes on the Leader. When I keep my eyes on Christ, I’ll never sink.
God bless you always,
Stephanie
https://youtu.be/bYEJc1eo1RU
Hi Stephanie! Thanks for stopping by! So glad you were encouraged. Yep, eyes on HIM!
Why are we so prone to want to do things in our own control and power even when we know we need God to get the job done? This was such a sweet testament to what you of all people, know that I have been struggling with. Thank You!..for sharing your heart and His truth. Love you girl!!
Laura ~
Thanks Laura! I believe 98% fight this battle. You aren’t alone. I’m praying for you. I love you, and I’m cheering for you.
Awesome encouraging word, Andy!!!
Thanks Joyce!
I so need encouragement sometimes. Life is like a roller coaster and when your at the bottom is when discouragement is the worst. I just keep looking up :)
I know you do! You are a trooper. Keep that face toward the sky!
Today I picked up the challenge to start journaling again. I have been ” giving in ” to procrastination, discouragement, and negativity, but I know that when I get into the word with consistency and couple it with journaling that God then can fill me with truth, and “the truth can set me free”. I didn’t have any huge revelations today, but now have “opened eyes “to some small things that could become bigger if I keep my eyes on Him. Thanks for the ” in” couragement today. I needed a good slap upside the head, but our gracious God was much more gentle with me. I thank Him for that.
I love you Mary Beth! Journaling, even writing down a verse, always draws me closer to Him. Even though I am a writer, this is something I have to intentionally do also. I think you are one of His “favorites.” :) Yes, He is always gentle. His corrections bring peace, freedom, strength, and healing. Condemnation is not from our loving God. Never.
Beautiful words to start the day!
Thank you Donna!
Another great reminder I look forward to your posts. They are very encouraging. Thank you!
Thank you Marie! God is good! :) We’re all in the same boat with Him.