"Brief Devotions For Busy Lives" by Rev. Dr. Mary Johnson: Philippians 1:2-6

 June 9

"I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus." - Paul in Philippians 1:2-6 (NIV)

There are times even on beautiful June days when we can become discouraged or overwhelmed by difficult problems or challenging circumstances. Yet Paul assures us in today's scripture that the same Lord who began a good work within you will continue it throughout your lifetime and finish it when you meet him face to face. God's work within you began you were first formed in your Mother's womb. God's purpose and plan for your life is a vital part of who you are. Your mission is an important part of God's plan for our world. Don't ever let discouragement or any challenging situation rob you of the joy Christ has for you! Don't let hard circumstances make you want to quit! Our Lord who began a good work in you will complete it as long as you keep your focus on God and not the difficulties.

If you ever wanted to give up, God knows how you feel. We can all feel that way at times! Do you sometimes feel useless or as though you aren't making progress in your goals or spiritual life? It is not an uncommon feeling when we are depressed or tired. Yet, when God starts a project, he completes it! God will help you grow in grace until he has completed his good work in your life. Whenever you are discouraged, remember God won't give up on you even if others have or even if you have given up on yourself. Our Lord promises to finish the work he has begun. Whenever you feel discouraged, incomplete, unfinished, or distressed by your circumstances or shortcomings, remember God's promises, provision, love, and guidance are absolute! If you don't give up, you can be confident of this: "that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus."

Prayer: Lord, Grant me strength to persevere in hard times and challenging, difficult problems. Amen.

Meditation For The Day: God's best plans for you will appear if you persevere in partnership with Christ!

Brief Devotions For Busy Lives: Daily Spring Renewal Paperback – February 21, 2017, by Rev. Dr. Mary Johnson (Author)