Category: Encouragement For The Downcast

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He’s Here

23 “Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call His name Immanuel” (which means, God with us). ~ Matthew 1:23

One of my favorite Christmas songs is You’re Here by Francesca Battistelli. The song is from the point of view of Mary holding baby Jesus in her arms and singing to Him. In it, she sings,

You’re here, I’m holding You so near
I’m starring into the face of my saviour, king and creator
You could’ve left us on our own, but You’re here

Jesus could’ve left us on our own. He didn’t have to save us. He didn’t have to take this hard road, especially knowing that the majority of the world would reject Him, yet He still came. Even if only one person would be saved, and that one person was you, He still would’ve come because He loves us. He doesn’t desire that any perish, but all come to acceptance.

God loves us. When we messed up and corrupted ourselves, God left His throne, took on our form, and came to us. He desires that all of His creation be with Him, for His dwelling place is with us, and us with Him. That’s why He still feels with us to this day.

Dear LORD, thank You for not leaving me alone in the world. Thank you for not leaving me in darkness but shining your everlasting light upon me. Please soften my heart to the things of You. Help me not to be filled with anger, malice, envy, rejection, pride, sexual immorality, or any other stumbling block the devil throws in front of me to keep me from You. Please fill me with love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, faithfulness, and self-control. In Jesus’ name, I pray, amen.

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Be Filled With Great Joy

8 Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. 9 And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. 10 Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. 11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. 12 And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.” ~ Luke 2:8-12

Fear not! But how could they keep their hearts from racing, their hands from trembling, and their knees from quaking? This was a terrifying sight, but the words were comforting words. “Fear not, for behold, I bring you Good News of great joy…”

Good news of great joy is always good news, but this is even better because it was not just Good News for the Israelites or the Jews, the rich or the poor, white, black, Asian, Spanish, or any particular culture.

It was “Good News” for ALL “the people,” every single soul that will ever live and who has ever lived. It is Good News of great joy. But sadly, many people don’t find it to be very joyous. They are the Christ-haters. They hate the Name that is meant to bring great joy to everyone who hears that Name.

Why does it bring great joy? Because it’s the only Name that gives life and life more abundantly. It’s the only Name by which we can be saved. The birth of Jesus is good news of great joy for ALL people because ALL people can call on the Name of Jesus and be saved. That is the good news of great joy for all of us.

So, this Christmas season, remember that the Word of God became flesh to save you. Jesus didn’t just come for those whom the world deems good enough; He came for all people. He came for all of the world. You’re never too far gone for God to save and redeem you from your sins. All you have to do is ask and He will forgive you.

Peace. Love. Go Forth and Be Filled With Great Joy.

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The Goodness of God

6And David was greatly distressed; for the people spake of stoning him, because the soul of all the people was grieved, every man for his sons and for his daughters: but David encouraged himself in the Lord his God. ~ 1 Samuel 30:6 KJV

The Scripture states that David encouraged himself in the LORD his God. It wasn’t somebody else’s God. It was his God. David knew Him personally, and God knew David personally.

Imagine, there is chaos all around him. There are men wailing and crying. But these aren’t just ordinary men; they are seasoned warriors. Confusion and sorrowing of heart and loud lamentations are charging the air. While everyone else was wallowing in their own despair and self-pity, David found strength or encouragement in the LORD his God.

Many of us today are feeling low. We’re feeling heartache, pain, depression, sorrow, etc. The very weight of the world feels as though it’s been laid on our shoulders, and it’s crushing us. This is when we remember what David did, and we follow suit. We bow our knees at the feet of Jesus, and we cry out to Him. We encourage ourselves in His love, mercy, promises, etc. We remind ourselves that God is good even when our world becomes difficult and taxing.

Peace. Love. Go Forth and Remind Yourself of The Goodness of God.

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Our Creator God

15 The Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. 16 For in Him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through Him and for Him. 17 He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together. ~ Colossians 1:15-17NIV

Paul wrote that Jesus wasn’t just the beginning of God’s new creation, being the first to acquire the new eternal, perfect body that we so desire. The body that He received at His resurrection and the body that we will receive at the blowing of the last trumpet on that day when He comes back for us. Not only all of those things but all creation was created through Jesus and for Jesus. We weren’t created for no reason. We weren’t created just to be slaves to sin, fear, anger, lust, etc. We were created for Christ.

We have salvation that the angels in heaven long to even understand or grasp. We are a beloved creation. We are so loved that He spiritually seats us with Him so that we can overcome all things through Him. So that we might be able to fulfill our God-given call.

We weren’t mistakes. He intentionally created each and every one of us with a purpose and call. Not a single one does He desire to lose, but instead, He desires each and every one of us to come to acceptance through Christ Jesus. We are each loved and desired by our gracious Creator.

Dear LORD, thank You for creating me. Thank You for giving me a purpose. Thank You that I’m not alone, even when it feels that way, for You have never left nor forsaken me. Thank You that You’re a good, loving Father who only wants good things for me. Teach me to find those good things and follow Your good path for my life. In Jesus’ name, I pray, amen.

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We All Have A Gift

4 I always thank my God for you because of His grace given you in Christ Jesus. 5 For in Him you have been enriched in every way—with all kinds of speech and with all knowledge— 6 God thus confirming our testimony about Christ among you. 7 Therefore you do not lack any spiritual gift as you eagerly wait for our Lord Jesus Christ to be revealed. ~ 1 Corinthians 1:4-7NIV

Today, the Church is quite divided over spiritual matters. One says spiritual gifts were for a time; another says some spiritual gifts were for a time, while another says all spiritual gifts are for all times. Paul encouraged us that we don’t lack any spiritual gift. So, what does that mean? Paul listed multiple spiritual gifts later on in this same letter. That not only suggests but confirms that we aren’t lacking in any spiritual gift as we wait for the return of our LORD, Jesus Christ.

Spiritual gifts aren’t something God gave to us for just a season. It can’t be. Why? Because those gifts were given for the building up, strengthening, and empowering of His Church. If He took those away, we’re saying one of two things: either He weakened the Church, or the Church is perfect and doesn’t need His help in those areas anymore. Neither of these two things is true. The Devil is still on the earth, running free with much power and authority. He’s not a toothless lion; otherwise, he wouldn’t be someone we have to watch out for. That’s why Peter warned us that the Devil, our adversary, is prowling around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.

To be on the prowl is to be on the hunt. It’s to seek out prey for food. This isn’t a toothless defeated lion that Peter is warning us of. Therefore, how can we say we no longer have the spiritual gifts that strengthen, build up, and uphold the Church? The very body that he is seeking to destroy. We can’t. That’s a lie from the enemy to weaken his adversary so that he might easier overpower and devour us.

Spiritual gifts, according to Paul and Peter, are given to each person. Paul even tells us to earnestly seek the greater gifts. Why? Because he wants us to be strong and not weak. He wants us to be prepared in every possible way, just as he was so that when we get to the end of our race, we can stand confidently as he did and say,

7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 8 Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for His appearing.

2 Timothy 4:7-8

Dear LORD, help me to be like Paul and seek out not only the spiritual gifts you have given me but the greater gifts as well. Help me not to live in fear or doubt that these gifts are for me. Help me to live in the confidence of Your Truth and not the truth of an individual with biases and opinions. I don’t want to follow man, but You and You alone. Show me how to seek out my gifts and the greater gifts. Teach me how to use my gift for the furthering of Your Kingdom. May it be for Your glory and honor and not my own. May it bring You praise and point the world back to You. In Jesus’ name, I pray, amen.

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All Called

14 The Lord turned to him and said, “Go in the strength you have and save Israel out of Midian’s hand. Am I not sending you?” ~ Judges 6:14

Gideon was the least of his family, and his family was the weakest in Israel, yet the LORD called him to be a mighty warrior. Today is no different. We’re each called to a very specific purpose, and sometimes we don’t feel ready for it. We don’t feel like we’re enough, but that’s when we have to remember we’re just the vessel God is using. He is the one who is in control.

See, we may be weak, but with God, we’re strong. We may be fearful, but with God, we’re brave and courageous. We may be young and inexperienced, but with God, we’re wise and prepared for whatever He has in store for us. All we have to do is trust in Him. We have to look at ourselves the way that God looks at us.

How do we do that? Through prayer, worship, and fasting. When our focus is on God and the things of God, our outlook on life and ourselves begins to change. Why? Because when we focus on Light, the darkness begins to fade away. Light will always overcome darkness, no matter how things look.

Dear LORD, help me to have faith that You have a call and purpose for my life. Help me to know exactly what that call is. Lead me in the way that I should go so that I might not stray from the plans that You have for my life. I know that You are good and that You are for me and not against me; please help me to also believe it with all that is within me. Teach me to see myself the way that You see me. In Jesus’ name, I pray, amen.

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A Call To Work

4 We must work the works of Him who sent me while it is day; night is coming, when no one can work. ~ John 9:4

Not all calls God has for our lives are flashy calls. Some of them are humble. Some are difficult. Some may even seem insignificant. But they are all work. I don’t have a secular job. I do this ministry full-time. This ministry is my job. This is my work. But to most people, even those in the Church (some of which are family), don’t see this as work. They don’t see the time, effort, and dedication it takes to do this every day.

We don’t have a large following. We’re not known worldwide or even city-wide, for that matter. The majority of our friends and family don’t even support us by watching a video or reading a devotional every now and then. Matter of fact, they don’t even subscribe to our website or channel. When we talk about working, it’s reduced down to, “Well, it’s not really work; it’s a passion.” It may be said nicely or playfully, but that doesn’t make it any less hurtful and discouraging.

That’s when God starts to speak to you. And He reminds you that it’s not their approval or even their support that matters. It’s that you’re doing the will of God that matters. It’s not for them; it’s for God. We’re each called for something. We’re each given the tools (gifts, both spiritual and physical) necessary to fulfill this God-given call. And sometimes, it just feels pointless. Sometimes, you feel like just quitting because you don’t feel like you’re making an impact. But the thing is, if you’re where God wants you to be, then you’re making an impact even if you don’t see it.

Dear God, thank You for giving me a call. Thank You for giving my life purpose and meaning. Thank You that I’m not just a floating speck of dust in the universe but that I was divinely designed by the Creator of all things, who loves me enough to give my life purpose. Please encourage my heart that I might not be discouraged and my soul might not be downcast within me. Help me to focus on You and the call that You have for my life. Help me to always encourage myself in You regardless of what other people think or say. In Jesus’ name, I pray, amen.

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Called To Him

6 including you who are called to belong to Jesus Christ, 7 To all those in Rome who are loved by God and called to be saints ~ Romans 1:6-7

When we each think about God’s call for our lives, we usually don’t think about the basic overall call the LORD has for each one of us. Salvation. We are all called to a universal calling, that is, a calling to belong to Jesus Christ. And in the same way, we are all called to be saints. In other words, we are all called to a life of excellence.

Because we are all loved by God. For God so loved the world that He gave us Jesus, and it was He who died on the cross to purchase our salvation so that we would not have to spend eternity in the Lake of Fire, which burns forever and ever, and the smoke of the torment of those who go there will ascend up forever.

 That’s not the eternity that God has for us. It was never intended for us but for the Devil and his angels. God intended for us to be with Him for all eternity in a place of freedom, love, peace, and perfection. A new and improved Garden of Eden that can never be corrupted, for we will all be made new.

Peace. Love. Go Forth and Choose Christ.

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Cry Out Until You Receive

29 As Jesus and His disciples were leaving Jericho, a large crowd followed Him. 30 Two blind men were sitting by the roadside, and when they heard that Jesus was going by, they shouted, “Lord, Son of David, have mercy on us!” 31 The crowd rebuked them and told them to be quiet, but they shouted all the louder, “Lord, Son of David, have mercy on us!” ~ Matthew 20:29-31

During the time of Jesus, the people tried to silence those who cried out to Jesus. They didn’t feel they were worthy of Jesus healing them. They didn’t see their worth. Today’s crowd is even more selfish, for they don’t even want Jesus to come into their city. But the two blind men were not intimidated nor discouraged. They shouted even louder, and Jesus heard them and granted them their heart’s desire. If they had caved under the abusive words of the crowd or decided to wait for a more opportune time, they would have missed their miracle.

Don’t wait, don’t be intimidated, don’t hesitate, and DO NOT BE DENIED; Jesus is passing by; this is your day and your miracle. Just reach out and touch Him, and your life will never be the same.

LORD, turn Your ear to my cry of faith today. Tough my heart, mind, soul, spirit, and body. Grant liberation to me as I cry out to You. Deliver me from all of my bondage and sin. Restore my mind and cleanse me of all evil thoughts and desires. Come to my rescue and help me to become worthy of Your love. In Jesus’ name, I pray, amen.

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Joy Comes In The Morning

5 For His anger endureth but a moment; in His favour is life: weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning. ~ Psalms 30:5KJV

If God loves you, He will discipline you, but it’s only for a short time because He loves you. Therefore, His favor lasts a lifetime. His favor will open doors that were once closed; it brings that promotion that was out of reach. It protects that wayward child and restores that broken relationship.

His love is the reason why weeping will only last a night, but when the sun comes up, it brings joy, new hope, renewed mercies, and fresh blessings. Be blessed today, be joyful today, be hopeful and optimistic today; God loves you and cares for you.

Father, we, Your children, come and present to You the offering of praise. Receive it today and leave behind a blessing. Thank You, in Jesus’ name, amen.

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