Encouragement may sound like a fluffy term, but it simply means to give support, confidence, or hope. Before leading the Israelites into the Promised Land, God commanded Joshua not to be discouraged. (Joshua 1:9) Courage is a very important fuel for believers to live out God’s purpose for our lives, and the enemy knows this. So he will do everything to discourage us and take away our hope. When the Psalmist became discouraged, he wrote:
“Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me? Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my salvation.” (Psalm 42:5 ESV)
Instead of listening to negative thoughts and being led by toxic emotions, the psalmist speaks to himself, reminding himself to place his hope in God. He chooses to praise God no matter his feelings because God is always worthy of praise, no matter our circumstances.
We fight back against discouragement by placing our hope in God, remaining thankful for all God has done in our lives, and remembering who we are in Him. Today, I encourage you to place your hope in God when you feel discouraged.
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for encouraging me when I am down and discouraged. Please help me to uplift my spirit by praising You, seeking Your Word, and giving you thanks. In Jesus’ name, amen.