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Overcoming the Weight of Discouragment


God tells us to be on guard and to not get discouraged or dismayed.  In Isaiah 41:10 He says, "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."

Today I feel bloodied and bruised in this battle against these feelings of discouragement.  

A little dramatic?  Possibly.  I feel pretty defeated and like an absolute weeny.

Pushing back against grief and loss and worry for my father-in-law.  Attempting to still make Christmas special and meaningful.   My refrigerator died and repair work needs done on my vehicle.  Other members of my little church family are in pain.  My house still needs attention.  My bank account is screaming.  My blood sugar wacked out.  A rainy day has come and I was not prepared nor a good steward.  I failed.

Then I remember the lessons that I'm teaching my Children's Church regarding the importance of God's armor that is so much bigger then anything physical or any enemy or discouragement that I face.  The truth of His word and the strength of His Spirit.  Taking the sword which is the Word of God-I cut through this fog and see God's mercy and God's grace.  

 It's not dramatic.  It's reality. 

 "What, then, shall we say in response to this? If God is for us, who can be against us?" Romans 8:31

"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you." Duet. 31:6

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