“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
Joshua 1:9
“Discouraged means; feeling or having caused to feel, a loss of confidence, hope, or enthusiasm, often leading to a lack of motivation or a desire to quit. It implies being disheartened by obstacles, disapproval, or a perceived lack of success.”
(Cambridge Dictionary)
Jesus does not want us to be discouraged. In fact, He commands us not to be.
Jesus says to His disciples, just before what probably was the most discouraging experience of their lives,
“Let not your hearts be troubled”
John 14:1
Discouragement can come in many forms. One way is when we feel a lack of confidence in what we already know.
Because we read, memorize and know the word of God, that alone should comfort and encourage us.
Sometimes though, we tend to lack the confidence to believe it fully.
This lack of confidence quickly causes discouragement to enter into our hearts and minds, and discouragement can lead to so many other negative thoughts.
It is imperative that we keep seeking God and hiding His Word in our heart. Then, when discouragement does come about, we have an arsenal of scripture stored up.
Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.”
Joshua 1:8
“I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.”
Psalm 119:11
“Fix these words of mine in your hearts and minds; tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads”
Deuteronomy 11:18
Do not allow the cares, worries and stresses of this world to shake you.
For God’s grace is sufficient for you!
But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.
2 Corinthians 12:9
Many blessings,
Connie
