"Brief Devotions For Busy Lives" By Rev. Dr. Mary B. Johnson: Isaiah 41:10-11

 January 14

"Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand. See, all your angry enemies lie there, confused and humiliated. Anyone who opposes you will die and come to nothing." -Isaiah 41:10-11 (NLT)

Have you ever struggled with discouragement? Many do at this time of year with gray skies and short dark days. Joyce Meyer once said: "Depression begins with disappointment. When disappointment festers in our soul, it leads to discouragement." Yet today’s Bible verse assures us that God's help and blessings are not the only benefit we have as Christians. Our Lord also promises us in Isaiah 41 that His presence goes with us. Therefore we can't ever be in a place where God is not with us. His presence and power are upholding and strengthening you at this very minute. No matter what may happen in our life or physical body, God has already given the ultimate triumph over every enemy and any for through Christ Jesus. Therefore rest assured your faith is not only appropriate, but victorious. You aren't alone! Billy Graham once said, "The Christian life is not a constant high. I have my moments of deep discouragement. I have to go to God in prayer with tears in my eyes, and say, 'O God, forgive me,' or 'Help me'."

Yet times of discouragement needn't last or be a lifestyle! We don't have to remain discouraged because today's scripture assures us that: (A) God is present always when he says "I am with you"; Our Lord keeps a relationship with us when he says "I am your God"; and (C) God promises us strength, power, and victory over our problems. What are ways God has helped you in the past? When we are tempted to wallow in discouragement, we all need to pause and ask some reflective questions. Has God ever abandoned you? What can you do to draw closer to God today? How can you find the hope you are looking for? God delivers! When He makes a promise, he keeps it. Rejoice! Christ is completely trustworthy.

Prayer: Lord, Thank you for encouraging me when I am discouraged. Transform my fear into faith. Amen

Meditation For The Day: God gives encouragement in times of discouragement and transforms depression to liberation.

Brief Devotions For Busy Lives: Daily Winter Renewal Paperback – November 25, 2017, by Rev. Dr. Mary Johnson (Author)