Resisting Discouragement

[king'sbloomingrose]

Galations 6:9 And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.

1 Corinthians 15:58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.

Hebrews 12:1-13 Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,

2Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.

3For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds.

4Ye have not yet resisted unto blood, striving against sin.

5And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him:

6For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.

7If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not?

8But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons.

9Furthermore we have had fathers of our flesh which corrected us, and we gave them reverence: shall we not much rather be in subjection unto the Father of spirits, and live?

10For they verily for a few days chastened us after their own pleasure; but he for our profit, that we might be partakers of his holiness.

11Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby.

12Wherefore lift up the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees;

13And make straight paths for your feet, lest that which is lame be turned out of the way; but let it rather be healed.

Hebrews 12:28-29 Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear:

29For our God is a consuming fire.

1 Timothy 6:12 Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.

2 Timothy 4:6-8 For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand.
7 I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:
8 Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.


Hebrews 11 (all of it) Hebrews 11

1Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

2For by it the elders obtained a good report.

3Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear.

4By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh.

5By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death; and was not found, because God had translated him: for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God.

6But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.

7By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith.

8By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went.

9By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise:

10For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God.

11Through faith also Sara herself received strength to conceive seed, and was delivered of a child when she was past age, because she judged him faithful who had promised.

12Therefore sprang there even of one, and him as good as dead, so many as the stars of the sky in multitude, and as the sand which is by the sea shore innumerable.

13These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth.

14For they that say such things declare plainly that they seek a country.

15And truly, if they had been mindful of that country from whence they came out, they might have had opportunity to have returned.

16But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city.

17By faith Abraham, when he was tried, offered up Isaac: and he that had received the promises offered up his only begotten son,

18Of whom it was said, That in Isaac shall thy seed be called:

19Accounting that God was able to raise him up, even from the dead; from whence also he received him in a figure.

20By faith Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau concerning things to come.

21By faith Jacob, when he was a dying, blessed both the sons of Joseph; and worshipped, leaning upon the top of his staff.

22By faith Joseph, when he died, made mention of the departing of the children of Israel; and gave commandment concerning his bones.

23By faith Moses, when he was born, was hid three months of his parents, because they saw he was a proper child; and they were not afraid of the king's commandment.

24By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter;

25Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season;

26Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompence of the reward.

27By faith he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king: for he endured, as seeing him who is invisible.

28Through faith he kept the passover, and the sprinkling of blood, lest he that destroyed the firstborn should touch them.

29By faith they passed through the Red sea as by dry land: which the Egyptians assaying to do were drowned.

30By faith the walls of Jericho fell down, after they were compassed about seven days.

31By faith the harlot Rahab perished not with them that believed not, when she had received the spies with peace.

32And what shall I more say? for the time would fail me to tell of Gedeon, and of Barak, and of Samson, and of Jephthae; of David also, and Samuel, and of the prophets:

33Who through faith subdued kingdoms, wrought righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions.

34Quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, out of weakness were made strong, waxed valiant in fight, turned to flight the armies of the aliens.

35Women received their dead raised to life again: and others were tortured, not accepting deliverance; that they might obtain a better resurrection:

36And others had trial of cruel mockings and scourgings, yea, moreover of bonds and imprisonment:

37They were stoned, they were sawn asunder, were tempted, were slain with the sword: they wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins; being destitute, afflicted, tormented;

38(Of whom the world was not worthy:) they wandered in deserts, and in mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth.

39And these all, having obtained a good report through faith, received not the promise:

40God having provided some better thing for us, that they without us should not be made perfect.

Friends, I hope I don't sound whacked by posting this. I'm just trying to desperately remind myself of God's Word and hang in there, no matter how I feel. And for all of those out there who are discouraged please trust in God and wait upon Him. He will answer eventually even if it seems to take forever. He has heard your prayers and He will answer in the right timing. And then one day we'll all see Him face to face...and won't all the trials we've gone thru down on this earth pale in comparison. I think it'd be worth it all just to see Him!

[Robert]

Friends, I hope I don't sound whacked by posting this. I'm just trying to desperately remind myself of God's Word and hang in there, no matter how I feel. And for all of those out there who are discouraged please trust in God and wait upon Him. He will answer eventually even if it seems to take forever. He has heard your prayers and He will answer in the right timing. And then one day we'll all see Him face to face...and won't all the trials we've gone thru down on this earth pale in comparison. I think it'd be worth it all just to see Him!

KBR,
There is nothing "whacked" about reminding one's self of God's own spoken word, especially the incredible promises He himself has made to us.

If I may, some encouragement for you:

“Behold, I have inscribed you on the palms of My hands; Your walls are continually before Me." (Isaiah 49:16, NASB)

"For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is to be revealed to us. For the anxious longing of the creation waits eagerly for the revealing of the sons of God. For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of Him who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself also will be set free from its slavery to corruption into the freedom of the glory of the children of God. For we know that the whole creation groans and suffers the pains of childbirth together until now. And not only this, but also we ourselves, having the first fruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our body. For in hope we have been saved, but hope that is seen is not hope; for who hopes for what he already sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, with perseverance we wait eagerly for it. In the same way the Spirit also helps our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we should, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words; and He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He intercedes for the saints according to the will of God. And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. For those whom He foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed to the image of His Son, so that He would be the firstborn among many brethren; and these whom He predestined, He also called; and these whom He called, He also justified; and these whom He justified, He also glorified. What then shall we say to these things?If God is for us, who is against us? He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him over for us all, how will He not also with Him freely give us all things? Who will bring a charge against God’s elect? God is the one who justifies; who is the one who condemns? Christ Jesus is He who died, yes, rather who was raised, who is at the right hand of God, who also intercedes for us. Who will separate us from the love of Christ? Will tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? " (Romans 8:18-35, NASB, emphasis mine)

"For whatever is born of God overcomes the world; and this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith. Who is the one who overcomes the world, but he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God? This is the One who came by water and blood, Jesus Christ; not with the water only, but with the water and with the blood. It is the Spirit who testifies, because the Spirit is the truth. For there are three that testify: the Spirit and the water and the blood; and the three are in agreement. If we receive the testimony of men, the testimony of God is greater; for the testimony of God is this, that He has testified concerning His Son. The one who believes in the Son of God has the testimony in himself; the one who does not believe God has made Him a liar, because he has not believed in the testimony that God has given concerning His Son. And the testimony is this, that God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. He who has the Son has the life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have the life. These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, so that you may know that you have eternal life. This is the confidence which we have before Him, that, if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have the requests which we have asked from Him." (1 John 5:5-15, NASB, emphasis mine)

I hope some of this has encouraged you, KBR. Keep in mind: it is an eternal, infinite, omnipotent LIVING God who has made these promises to us, and has promised on HIMSELF to keep them to us.

If only this world knew whom we have on our side, they would ask the rocks to fall on them.

In fact, scripture says they will.

[JC1949]

so true..........
going discouraged is way too easy....
look around..one gets discouraged...
better to look up.....
why?
because He already came down and now is at the RIGHT HAND of THE FATHER....INTERCEDING FOR US...

Scripture Ps 9 18
But the needy will not always be forgotten, nor the hope of the afflicted ever perish.
Psa 30 2
O LORD my God, I called to you for help and you healed me.
Psa 46
1 God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.
Psa 145 9
The LORD is good to all; he has compassion on all he has made.
Psa 147 3
He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.
Isa 25 7-8
On this mountain he will destroy the shroud that en folds all peoples, the sheet that covers all nations; 8he will swallow up death forever. The Sovereign LORD will wipe away the tears from all faces; he will remove the disgrace of his people from all the earth. The LORD has spoken.
Isa 66 13
As a mother comforts her child, so will I comfort you; and you will be comforted over Jerusalem.
Nah 1 7
The LORD is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him,
Zep 3 19
At that time I will deal with all who oppressed you; I will rescue the lame and gather those who have been scattered. I will give them praise and honor in every land where they were put to shame.
Rev 21 4
He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away
Psa 22 4-5
In you our fathers put their trust; they trusted and you delivered them. They cried to you and were saved; in you they trusted and were not disappointed.
Psa 50 15
and call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you will honor me.
Psa 88 1-4
O LORD, the God who saves me, day and night I cry out before you. May my prayer come before you; turn your ear to my cry. For my soul is full of trouble and my life draws near the grave. I am counted among those who go down to the pit; I am like a man without strength.
Psa 55 16-17
But I call to God, and the LORD saves me. Evening, morning and noon I cry out in distress, and he hears my voice.
Psa 57 1
Have mercy on me, O God, have mercy on me, for in you my soul takes refuge. I will take refuge in the shadow of your wings until the disaster has passed.
Psa 86 6-7
Hear my prayer, O LORD; listen to my cry for mercy. In the day of my trouble I will call to you, for you will answer me.
Psa 113 7-8
He raises the poor from the dust and lifts the needy from the ash heap; he seats them with princes, with the princes of their people.
Psa 116 1-2
I love the LORD, for he heard my voice; he heard my cry for mercy. Because he turned his ear to me, I will call on him as long as I live.
Psa 119 50
My comfort in my suffering is this: Your promise preserves my life.
Psa 143 9
Rescue me from my enemies, O LORD, for I hide myself in you.
Psa 145 19
He fulfills the desires of those who fear him; he hears their cry and saves them.
II Cor 1 3-4
Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God.
Psa 30 5
For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime; weeping may remain for a night, but rejoicing comes in the morning.
Psa 23 1
The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.
Psa 55 22
Cast your cares on the LORD and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall. Phi 4 6-7
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
I Cor 15 51-53
Listen, I tell you a mystery: We will not all sleep, but we will all be changed-- in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed. For the perishable must clothe itself with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality.
Psa 107 10-14
Some sat in darkness and the deepest gloom, prisoners suffering in iron chains, for they had rebelled against the words of God and despised the counsel of the Most High. So he subjected them to bitter labor; they stumbled, and there was no one to help. Then they cried to the LORD in their trouble, and he saved them from their distress. He brought them out of darkness and the deepest gloom and broke away their chains.

Ps 9 18

But the needy will not always be forgotten, nor the hope of the afflicted ever perish.

Psa 30 2 O LORD my God, I called to you for help and you healed me.

Psa 46 1 God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.

Psa 145 9 The LORD is good to all; he has compassion on all he has made.

Psa 147 3 He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.

Isa 25 7-8
On this mountain he will destroy the shroud that enfolds all peoples, the sheet that covers all nations; 8he will swallow up death forever. The Sovereign LORD will wipe away the tears from all faces; he will remove the disgrace of his people from all the earth. The LORD has spoken.
Isa 66 13
As a mother comforts her child, so will I comfort you; and you will be comforted over Jerusalem.
Nah 1 7
The LORD is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him,
Zep 3 19
At that time I will deal with all who oppressed you; I will rescue the lame and gather those who have been scattered. I will give them praise and honor in every land where they were put to shame.
Rev 21 4
He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away

Psa 22 4-5
In you our fathers put their trust; they trusted and you delivered them. They cried to you and were saved; in you they trusted and were not disappointed.

Psa 50 15 and call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you will honor me.
Psa 88 1-4 O LORD, the God who saves me, day and night I cry out before you. May my prayer come before you; turn your ear to my cry. For my soul is full of trouble and my life draws near the grave. I am counted among those who go down to the pit; I am like a man without strength.

Psa 55 16-17 But I call to God, and the LORD saves me. Evening, morning and noon I cry out in distress, and he hears my voice.

Psa 57 1
Have mercy on me, O God, have mercy on me, for in you my soul takes refuge. I will take refuge in the shadow of your wings until the disaster has passed.

Psa 86 6-7 Hear my prayer, O LORD; listen to my cry for mercy. In the day of my trouble I will call to you, for you will answer me.

Psa 113 7-8 He raises the poor from the dust and lifts the needy from the ash heap; he seats them with princes, with the princes of their people.

Psa 116 1-2 I love the LORD, for he heard my voice; he heard my cry for mercy. Because he turned his ear to me, I will call on him as long as I live.

Psa 119 50 My comfort in my suffering is this: Your promise preserves my life.

Psa 143 9 Rescue me from my enemies, O LORD, for I hide myself in you.

Psa 145 19 He fulfills the desires of those who fear him; he hears their cry and saves them.

II Cor 1 3-4
Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God.

Psa 30 5 For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime; weeping may remain for a night, but rejoicing comes in the morning.

Psa 23 1 The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.

Psa 55 22 Cast your cares on the LORD and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall.

Phi 4 6-7 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

I Cor 15 51-53 Listen, I tell you a mystery: We will not all sleep, but we will all be changed-- in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed. For the perishable must clothe itself with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality.

Psa 107 10-14 Some sat in darkness and the deepest gloom, prisoners suffering in iron chains, for they had rebelled against the words of God and despised the counsel of the Most High. So he subjected them to bitter labor; they stumbled, and there was no one to help. Then they cried to the LORD in their trouble, and he saved them from their distress. He brought them out of darkness and the deepest gloom and broke away their chains.






ALLELUJAH !!!!!

[myinnuendo999]

wonderful reminders kingsbloomingrose.. EVERY jot and tittle of God's word is so precious and when you believe God is speaking to you on a specific passage you want to share with others that's why we all gather here at this forum or at church with other believers. It's not wacky or crazy at all. It's encouraging and uplifting. I love to read what my sisters and brothers are going through and their thoughts that I've never thought of. I need to be built up and I love the sharing of passages that God is speaking to you and others about.---I can't get this kind of love from the secular world...

You share and don't be ashamed at all.

The passage you've shared is one that has spoken to my heart in times when my arms and legs became very feeble. I realized I was having a very big pity party. Jesus is our STRENGTH and we should no longer whine and complain about the present circumstances but look to the great cloud of witnesses and be encouraged that God is our Heavenly Father and HE is NOT going to let us live like the world. These burdens in our lives are NOT mistakes but are either allowed by God or placed there by Him for our GOOD. NOT that the circumstances are good but Jesus is always GOOD and God is interested in our Character and not giving us everything we what we WANT.

[Elijah's Mantle]

Just the reminder needed

that is some GREAT SCRIPTURE
and in these times
MUCH NEEDED

[mikhen7]

My favorite when the enemy or circumstance tempts me to be discouraged is......drumroll ......trumpet blast.....

Isaiah 26:3, "Thou will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed upon Thee, because he trusts in thee."

God bless

[Elijah's Mantle]

much needed in times of severe discouragement
pray for me that I am able to battle through it all
past events that attempted to take the
good news of the gospel and change it into
something God never intended
the pain of it often enough leaves me
very discouraged

God Bless your heart for this Good word

[king'sbloomingrose]

Thanks Roberto! That's a ton of Scripture verses...thank you very much for sharing them

EM, I'll be in prayer for you.

[Elijah's Mantle]

God Bless you king'sbloomingrose
I find the ton of scriptures puts life back
in dead places

and I must humbly ask
can I borrow that saying ?

Deserted and abandoned to God!

You are my Hiding Place!

Its so perfect that I found I was starring at it everyday

it is odd how it seems to be a rare but priceless quote
some how if I could be deserted and abandoned to God
it would make the ones of life be alright

[king'sbloomingrose]

Oh EM, of course you can! I don't mind at all. I never saw this thread until just now when I went to update it, so I'm so sorry that I didn't respond to it sooner!

Thou whom I have taken from the ends of the earth, and called thee from the chief men thereof, and said unto thee, Thou art my servant; I have chosen thee, and not cast thee away.

10Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.

11Behold, all they that were incensed against thee shall be ashamed and confounded: they shall be as nothing; and they that strive with thee shall perish.

12Thou shalt seek them, and shalt not find them, even them that contended with thee: they that war against thee shall be as nothing, and as a thing of nought.

13For I the LORD thy God will hold thy right hand, saying unto thee, Fear not; I will help thee.

Isaiah 41:10-13

4Though I might also have confidence in the flesh. If any other man thinketh that he hath whereof he might trust in the flesh, I more:

5Circumcised the eighth day, of the stock of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, an Hebrew of the Hebrews; as touching the law, a Pharisee;

6Concerning zeal, persecuting the church; touching the righteousness which is in the law, blameless.

7But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ.

8Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ,

9And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith:

10That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death;

11If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead.

12Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus.

13Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before,

14I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.

Philippians 3:4-14

[ChristianMomma]

Oh what a great thread. This is just what I needed to read today as I have been discouraged the last couple weeks with a few things in my life. Sometimes it can be very hard to 'fight the good fight', espcecially when you look around and don't see many others fighting with you. I know that I am so far from perfect, but I am trying and these verses were just the kind of reassurance I needed to stay on track.

[king'sbloomingrose]

Mikhen, can you believe that I was just thinking about posting Isaiah 26:3-4, when I went to check the thread and see if it had already been posted, and sure enough it had! But it's so good that it just has to be repeated one more time:

Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.

Trust ye in the LORD for ever: for in the LORD JEHOVAH is everlasting strength:

ChristianMomma, I know how hard it can be to stay near the Lord and "resist discouragment". I know the more I try to do so, the harder Satan pulls me in the other direction to distract me. I think he knows his time is short and is trying to do all that he possibly can do in the meantime to get Christians down. Hang in there! The Lord is on your side!

What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?

32He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?

33Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God's elect? It is God that justifieth.

34Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.

35Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?

36As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.

37Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.

38For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come,

39Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Romans 8:31-39

10The name of the LORD is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.

Proverbs 18:10

[Meg]

I am still fighting my way out of the prosperity "gospel", and yes, doing everything possible to resist discouragement. Isn't easy, is it? So in prayer this morning, I have been reflecting on the times I stood in the Lord and upheld His ways to the best of my ability even though in the end, that seemed to get me nowhere. I contrasted how I met the usual challenges of dealing with unsaved people as a Christian, against how I dealt with the same sort of thing as an unsaved person myself. Even though the people around me didn't respond to my expressions of dedication to Jesus Christ in a way I might have hoped, it was still way better to have walked with Christ than without Him. I have that much.

When I first accepted a Bible, made those first tentative steps of faith, I had this shiny happy picture of how wonderful it was going to be to be a Christian. Nothing turned out the way I had thought it would. What did happen though filled me with such awe and wonder for Jesus Christ that I will indeed worship Him forever. Even though nothing is turning out the way I thought it should or would, one thing I stand convinced of is that His ways are right and true. One man crucified alongside Him said He had done no wrong. Indeed, that is so true. That shining fact is what keeps me in faith, not in a state of surrender so much as in a state of dedication out of respect for His ways and His thoughts. Jesus Christ teaches an approach to life that is without parallel, and He backs His servants 100% through His indwelling Holy Spirit.

None of this has been easy. I personally have suffered challenges to my faith from the inside and from the outside. If I thought it was just me, I'd be utterly destroyed. But in fact, no matter who I read about or hear of, no matter what time or place, including the Apostles themselves and even Jesus Christ Himself for that matter, I find that whats happening to me happened to every other genuine servant of the Lord without exception. That is both reassuring and sobering. Its reassuring, because i know I'm neither singled out nor failing somehow. Its sobering, because I need to be very careful about whose side I am on at all times and in all circumstances. So no matter what goes wrong or what may eventually go right, I pray that in all things I might honor the Lord my God. He has indeed been more than good to me...

[mattfivefour]

I am still fighting my way out of the prosperity "gospel", and yes, doing everything possible to resist discouragement. Isn't easy, is it? So in prayer this morning, I have been reflecting on the times I stood in the Lord and upheld His ways to the best of my ability even though in the end, that seemed to get me nowhere. I contrasted how I met the usual challenges of dealing with unsaved people as a Christian, against how I dealt with the same sort of thing as an unsaved person myself. Even though the people around me didn't respond to my expressions of dedication to Jesus Christ in a way I might have hoped, it was still way better to have walked with Christ than without Him. I have that much.

When I first accepted a Bible, made those first tentative steps of faith, I had this shiny happy picture of how wonderful it was going to be to be a Christian. Nothing turned out the way I had thought it would. What did happen though filled me with such awe and wonder for Jesus Christ that I will indeed worship Him forever. Even though nothing is turning out the way I thought it should or would, one thing I stand convinced of is that His ways are right and true. One man crucified alongside Him said He had done no wrong. Indeed, that is so true. That shining fact is what keeps me in faith, not in a state of surrender so much as in a state of dedication out of respect for His ways and His thoughts. Jesus Christ teaches an approach to life that is without parallel, and He backs His servants 100% through His indwelling Holy Spirit.

None of this has been easy. I personally have suffered challenges to my faith from the inside and from the outside. If I thought it was just me, I'd be utterly destroyed. But in fact, no matter who I read about or hear of, no matter what time or place, including the Apostles themselves and even Jesus Christ Himself for that matter, I find that whats happening to me happened to every other genuine servant of the Lord without exception. That is both reassuring and sobering. Its reassuring, because i know I'm neither singled out nor failing somehow. Its sobering, because I need to be very careful about whose side I am on at all times and in all circumstances. So no matter what goes wrong or what may eventually go right, I pray that in all things I might honor the Lord my God. He has indeed been more than good to me...

Excellent post, Meg! All true Christians go through similar circumstances; but too many babies in Christ are untaught in the truths of chastening, trials, and the cost of discipleship. These things are clearly taught in God's Word but just as clearly not taught by many pastors. I pray your post bring comfort to those who are untaught in these truths and are currently questioning their salvation in light of the trials they are facing and the suffering they are experiencing.

[king'sbloomingrose]

All I can say is same thing here, Meg! I'm finally finding out what it means to truly take up your cross, and deny yourself daily. Everything I ever wanted to do...is usually not what God wants me to do. Books that I love reading, I can't cause they don't draw me closer to God. Even to how I spend my own time moment by moment....it's so hard, really, to live my life in a God pleasing way. I feel like saying sometimes, why on earth, Lord, did you put us on this narrow way that is the hardest to walk...it's full of pits, lions, and wild animals, trials and tribulations and expect us to endure until the end and then reward us at the end of the journey! I can see why people turned back from following Jesus.

It really isn't easy at all. But still, I think it's just so utterly impossible to do in our own strength that the only logical explanation as to why we're still even here, is because of HIM!

9And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

10Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.
2 Corinthians 12:9-10

[Robert]

I was thinking on this topic today, and as I was doing so, a thought came to mind. Whenever Jesus could, he got away from the crowds, the people in need of healing and even his own disciples, and went by himself to pray. He would spend time by himself where it was just him and the Father in single communion, with no interruptions, whether in the wilderness or a small room, away from everyone.

Maybe the reason why we get so discouraged is because all we can see is this ourselves and this world. We see how imperfect we are, how dark this world is, or all the things it supposedly offers. Maybe we see all these at one, and we are overwhelmed and no matter which way we turn our head, it's a view of what we want to do, how devil this planet has become, or how flawed we are.


"But you, when you pray, go into your inner room, close your door and pray to your Father who is in secret, and your Father who sees what is done in secret will reward you. " (Matthew 6:6, NASB)

"After He had sent the crowds away, He went up on the mountain by Himself to pray; and when it was evening, He was there alone." (Matthew 14:23, NASB)

"But the news about Him was spreading even farther, and large crowds were gathering to hear Him and to be healed of their sicknesses. 16But Jesus Himself would often slip away to the wilderness and pray." (Luke 5:16, NASB)


I'm not saying anyone here doesn't pray, but that it could be we are too exposed to this world when we do, and we all need time "in the wilderness", away from everything.

Just a thought.

[soundingthealarm]

I was thinking on this topic today, and as I was doing so, a thought came to mind. Whenever Jesus could, he got away from the crowds, the people in need of healing and even his own disciples, and went by himself to pray. He would spend time by himself where it was just him and the Father in single communion, with no interruptions, whether in the wilderness or a small room, away from everyone.

Maybe the reason why we get so discouraged is because all we can see is this ourselves and this world. We see how imperfect we are, how dark this world is, or all the things it supposedly offers. Maybe we see all these at one, and we are overwhelmed and no matter which way we turn our head, it's a view of what we want to do, how devil this planet has become, or how flawed we are.


"But you, when you pray, go into your inner room, close your door and pray to your Father who is in secret, and your Father who sees what is done in secret will reward you. " (Matthew 6:6, NASB)

"After He had sent the crowds away, He went up on the mountain by Himself to pray; and when it was evening, He was there alone." (Matthew 14:23, NASB)

"But the news about Him was spreading even farther, and large crowds were gathering to hear Him and to be healed of their sicknesses. 16But Jesus Himself would often slip away to the wilderness and pray." (Luke 5:16, NASB)


I'm not saying anyone here doesn't pray, but that it could be we are too exposed to this world when we do, and we all need time "in the wilderness", away from everything.

Just a thought.

[king'sbloomingrose]

Psalm 43

1Judge me, O God, and plead my cause against an ungodly nation: O deliver me from the deceitful and unjust man.

2For thou art the God of my strength: why dost thou cast me off? why go I mourning because of the oppression of the enemy?

3O send out thy light and thy truth: let them lead me; let them bring me unto thy holy hill, and to thy tabernacles.

4Then will I go unto the altar of God, unto God my exceeding joy: yea, upon the harp will I praise thee, O God my God.

5Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope in God: for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God.

Robert, that was an great post! Thanks for sharing.

[mattfivefour]

I was thinking on this topic today, and as I was doing so, a thought came to mind. Whenever Jesus could, he got away from the crowds, the people in need of healing and even his own disciples, and went by himself to pray. He would spend time by himself where it was just him and the Father in single communion, with no interruptions, whether in the wilderness or a small room, away from everyone.

Maybe the reason why we get so discouraged is because all we can see is this ourselves and this world. We see how imperfect we are, how dark this world is, or all the things it supposedly offers. Maybe we see all these at one, and we are overwhelmed and no matter which way we turn our head, it's a view of what we want to do, how devil this planet has become, or how flawed we are.


"But you, when you pray, go into your inner room, close your door and pray to your Father who is in secret, and your Father who sees what is done in secret will reward you. " (Matthew 6:6, NASB)

"After He had sent the crowds away, He went up on the mountain by Himself to pray; and when it was evening, He was there alone." (Matthew 14:23, NASB)

"But the news about Him was spreading even farther, and large crowds were gathering to hear Him and to be healed of their sicknesses. 16But Jesus Himself would often slip away to the wilderness and pray." (Luke 5:16, NASB)


I'm not saying anyone here doesn't pray, but that it could be we are too exposed to this world when we do, and we all need time "in the wilderness", away from everything.

Just a thought.

THAT ... my dear brother ... is a deep, deep truth!

[Meg]

All I can say is same thing here, Meg! I'm finally finding out what it means to truly take up your cross, and deny yourself daily. Everything I ever wanted to do...is usually not what God wants me to do. Books that I love reading, I can't cause they don't draw me closer to God. Even to how I spend my own time moment by moment....it's so hard, really, to live my life in a God pleasing way. I feel like saying sometimes, why on earth, Lord, did you put us on this narrow way that is the hardest to walk...it's full of pits, lions, and wild animals, trials and tribulations and expect us to endure until the end and then reward us at the end of the journey! I can see why people turned back from following Jesus.

It really isn't easy at all. But still, I think it's just so utterly impossible to do in our own strength that the only logical explanation as to why we're still even here, is because of HIM!

9And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

10Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.
2 Corinthians 12:9-10

Holly, I've been giving this issue a good deal of thought, and I'm still trying to figure out a balanced response. Before we get onto the issue of how we spend our free time, lets consider what draws us nearer to God and why. Scripture speaks of the importance of living according to the Lord's way of thinking (if you need me to dig up examples, just ask. I'd have to go through my first Bible for the best examples, as I set that foundation in my heart many years ago). Anyway, it is my opinion that we draw nearer to the Lord by considering what He's asking of us and actually making an effort to do it. After all, how much time do any of us spend with someone whose constantly arguing with us and rejecting our requests. Should the Lord be any different? I should think not. If you honestly love anyone, its because you value them for themselves. If we say we love the Lord, we prove that by valuing Him for Himself. Thats my opinion anyway.

OK, so now lets look at the sort of thing found in books we might wish to read to relax. Please forgive me if I've gotten my wires crossed, but didn't you mention Lord Of The Rings? Whats attractive about it, the adventure story? I started The Hobbit about twice in my lifetime, but never got into it, so I'm only loosely familiar with the story line, but from what I understand, its not quite as bad as some fiction going around these days. The major issue I'm familiar with is sorcery in the story line. The rest of the impression I have is it isn't too bad on graphic bloody or pornographic content. As far as the graphic violence, I could name some so-called Christian novels that are really bad, and as for the sorcery angle, again, I could name an allegedly Christian author or two who went way farther with demonic scenes. So choices aren't always clear, are they???

The second issue that crosses my mind is that it might be wise if Christians have some idea of what the rest of the world is up to. That, however, should be taken with some measure of caution, as we had better be sure what is right, what is wrong and why. Bob Larson is a really good example. He probably knows more details about occult practices than just about anybody alive, but he has lost sight of God's truth in favor of his own self aggrandizement. How and when he got lost, I have no idea, probably in his quest for fame and anointing, he stopped glorifying God and started glorifying himself. Another problem is knowledge without experience. If we can't fully appreciate the long-range outcome of bad ideas, the initial deception or thrill can be enticing. When satan sets out to destroy someone, he never indicates where he's headed with the bad idea. The evil thing always seems attractive in some way, and the victim always thinks they can "handle it" and "stop when they want to". It never works that way. Never. I have seen too many people start some bad idea a little at a time, only to get in deeper and deeper until they're either dead or in a hopeless mess. The deception always looked or felt attractive in some way in the early stages.

Now, how about some alternatives. If we feel its best to give up something we once enjoyed, even spent vast amounts of time and energy pursuing, how do we replace what we gave up? One way is to seek your hidden gifts. Just because we have a gift or talent, doesn't mean our abilities hatch out of the egg fully grown. Someone might have a talent for art or music, but still its necessary to practice to get good. In other words, your gifts and talents are seeds, not full grown trees, so if you want the seed to grow, you must nurture it. Experiment, practice and pray, ask what it is God gave you, and how its best to use it. God got me into crochet, for example. I still haven't figured out what thats good for beyond killing time and granting me an artistic outlet, but God did give me that to work with. I've been doing crochet for about 4 1/2 years now, and I guess I'm getting halfway decent at it. I know you have mastered piano, have you considered trying some other instrument?

There should be things in your life you can experiment with and explore. Let your healthy curiosity lead you.

For those who came into Christ as adults like I did, the longer you live without your bad habits, the less enticing the bad habits become. I once heard a superb sermon on that issue, and I have found for myself it is indeed true. But the best defense is understanding whats wrong with the sinful issue and why. When you're really clear on that, you won't miss it.

I hope this helps.