These words are my creation minus the mechanics of artificial intelligence (AI). You are welcome here!
There are days when we feel all strength is gone. It happens to each of us sooner or later.
No one is immune to this sense of being depleted of whatever we need to keep going. Some days, we may remember where our endurance and encouragement come from. On other days, we are muddled up and overwhelmed by what we are going through, and cannot think straight.
Friend, if you are walking through a season that has you exhausted and depleted—I have good news. Our good, good Father has provided what you need to keep going.
Growing up a church girl, I remember my heart was warmed by verses like, “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble” (Psalm 46.1). It was not until I became an adult and went through some stuff that I realized how much I truly needed the Lord for endurance and encouragement in this life.
May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus… Romans 15.5
This verse indicates that this endurance and encouragement from God will foster unity in our relationships. It is important to remember that part of our work as Christians—as image bearers of God—is to bear up others who are struggling.
Is your neighbor dealing with something hard. What about the co-worker who is overcome with fear? Does a family member need a positive word to get through the week?
Whatever those near you are going through, you can be an encouragement carrier. It is a beautiful honor to bless others in the name of Jesus.
We who are strong have an obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves. Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, to build him up. Romans 15.1-2
Apostle Paul, the author of Romans, instructs us to engage in this work among those around us. Even if going through tough times ourselves, we can still reach out to serve others.
As we build up our neighbor or encourage that co-worker, we come into unity. Remember the call in Romans 15.5 to live in harmony with one another.
Be disciplined in your faith, and grow in the understanding of where this endurance and encouragement come from. We will have days when we must remind ourselves that God is still in control (Psalm 121). Sometimes, you need to preach the gospel to yourself.
When we do this, we remember to find our strength and inspiration in reading and praying Scripture—and in reaching out a hand to others who need it, too.
His endurance and encouragement are yours today, friend.
A Prayer
Father God, Your word says my help comes from You (Psalm 121). Please be my help today.
I declare You are my refuge and strength, a very present help in times of trouble (Psalm 46). Lord, these are troublesome times. Thank You for walking beside me.
With my mouth, I declare You are my endurance and encouragement today and every day. As I lean on this promise and walk it out, give me harmony and unity with those around me (Romans 15).
Give me opportunities to bless others. This brings You glory, and I desire to bring You glory with my life. Amen.