DISCOURAGED

Webster’s Dictionary defines discouraged as being deprived of courage or disheartened. Discouragement happens to everyone. As preachers’ wives we find ourselves encouraging people all the time. We don’t condemn them for it but we feel like we are less than what we should be when we feel discouraged.

Can you imagine how discouraging it was for Jesus when He repeatedly told the disciples His mission and they didn’t get it. Over and over He explains to them why He was here and they didn’t understand.

We often think of discouragement as a “four letter word” that can’t be uttered. If we are discouraged then we are not the Christians we’re supposed to be. Our God understands what we hear, see and feel. He made us.

When you feel discouraged, look up. Remember your blessings. Remember the things that brought joy and happiness to your life. Talk to people who love you and encourage you and are not judgmental.

Spend time in conversation with our Father. Read His Word. Spend time talking to Him.

Here are a few of my favorite verses:

Psalm 34:17-19 When the righteous cry for help, the LORD hears and delivers them out of all their troubles. The LORD is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit. Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the LORD delivers him out of them all.

Joshua 1:9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.”

Deuteronomy 31:6 Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the LORD your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you.”

Isaiah 41:10 Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

Remember you are loved and cherished.

With love from my heart to yours,

Beverly Watkins, Nashville, TN